The Grapes of Wrath announce first new album in 22 years ‘High Road’ out March 19 on Aporia Records
TORONTO – Platinum-selling Canadian folk-rock trio The Grapes of Wrath announce the release of High Road on March 19, 2013 via Toronto-based imprint Aporia Records. High Road is the first album in 22 years to feature all three of the band’s original members Kevin Kane, Tom Hooper and Chris Hooper. In 2010, the three founding members shared the stage for the first time since their final show in 1992. “We realized there was a special kind of chemistry between the three of us,” recalls Chris. “I guess because we’d grown up together.”
“It’s interesting how this has evolved from doing just a single reunion show to signing a new record deal – all on it’s own steam,” says Kevin. “It’s nice when things sort of come together of their own volition and don’t feel forced or contrived.
“In the spring of 2012 the trio gathered at co-producer Darryl Neudorf’s (Neko Case, Blue Rodeo) private studio to begin work on the album – the first time all three had been in a studio together since completing their final album, These Days, at London’s Abbey Road in 1991. The resulting twelve tracks, written by both Kevin and Tom, feature the signature harmonies, vivid melodies and heartfelt lyrics The Grapes are known for yet also explore new sounds that will surprise the average fan.
“This record is a continuation of where we last left off. This isn’t a nostalgia trip. It’s like our other records – the next step in our growth as songwriters and musicians. The only difference is it took us a little longer to make the step” says Tom.
About The Grapes of Wrath
The Grapes of Wrath formed in Kelowna, B.C. in 1983. Their 1985 debut, September Bowl of Green introduced listeners to Tom and Kevin’s Byrds-ian harmonies.
In 1987, The Grapes of Wrath broke through to Canadian mainstream radio with the dazzling folk-pop of its gold-selling sophomore effort, Treehouse. Now and Again (1989) spawned three Top 50 singles, including the quietly haunting “What Was Going Through My Head”.
Following the release of 1991’s These Days – their second platinum album that spawned two Top 10 hits “You May Be Right” and “I Am Here” – the band decided to call it a day. On Oct. 30 2012, a star studded cast of Canadian musical greats including Sam Roberts, Ron Sexsmith, The Great Lakes Swimmers, Hayden, Julie Doiron and more joined our reformed alt-folk/pop pioneers, The Grapes of Wrath, on stage at Toronto’s Mod Club to celebrate the official reformation of one of most popular Canadian recording acts of the late 80’s and early 90’s.
HIGH ROAD TRACK LISTING
Good To See You
Isn’t There
Mexico
Paint You Blue
I’m lost (I Miss You)
Take On The Day
Broken
Make It OK
Picnic
None Too Soon
Waiting To Fly
Sad Melodies
Upcoming Tour Dates
Mar. 20: Kitchener, ON @ Hacienda Sarria
Mar. 23: Toronto, ON @ Dakota Tavern
Jun. 21 – 23: Joussard, AB Gap North County Fair
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