Interview with Gnarwhal
Gnarwhal are a metal band that fuses genres such as alternative fuzz rock, Progressive metal and doom metal formed in Yellowknife Canada in 2021, they take influence from bands such as Mastodon, The Sword, Elder, and King Buffalo. They released their debut self titled album in 2023. All answers by Mark Kilbride
Alicia
Can you Introduce the band?
Mark
The band is Mark Kilbride (Singer), Benji Straker (Guitar), Jeremy Straker (Bass) and Layne Rybchinski (Drums)
Alicia
Where did the name come from?
Mark
Jeremy (bassist) came up with Gnarwhal was actually kind of a joke that he came up with several years ago. It was a result of a group chat with some of his buds friends trying to come up with most “northern” band name. Even though at the time it was a meant to be silly, when he brought it up to the band, we all though it was rad so went with it.
Alicia
Your album just came out can you tell us about the recording process?
Mark
We recorded the EP over five days at Park Sound Studio in North Vancouver. We had an absolute blast. Our producer and engineer, Dan Ponich, is a true professional. He guided us through the entire process. I was thrilled to learn so much during our time in his studio. It was a unique experience to have two songs that were polished and ready to go while two others needed a lot of work. I remember working out some vocal phrasing while Jer recorded his bass parts for the song, Altered States. I love how it all came together; it's such a great space!
Alicia
Do you have plans to tour this release?
Mark
We have an EP Release show here at home at the end of May and are booked to play a festival in July (Folk on the Rocks). No tour dates set yet.
Alicia
Can you tell us about the music scene where you’re from?
Mark
The heavy music scene here at home has started to build over the last several years. Especially since the pandemic. It’s still mostly DIY, but new promoters and supportive venues are starting to pop up. We have a solid roster of local bands that are playing shows regularly, and lots of supportive locals always willing to come out to shows.
Alicia
Was music something you’ve always wanted to do?
Mark
Yeah, music has been a huge part of my life, and I have always wanted to be involved in it. Such a great way to connect with people. I love how organically the band came together and feel blessed to be a part of this group.
You can check out Gnarwhals music and social media below