Joel Plaskett (guitar, vocals)
Halifax-based band were originally inspired by fellow Haligonians Sloan who signed the young act to their own label - Murderecords - in 1994. Their first EP, 'Smart Bomb', firmly entrenched the act as part of the, then, trendy Cod-Rock movement (which featured Sloan, Hardship Post, Eric's Trip et al).
Thrush Hermit's love for '70s rock supergroups like Led Zeppelin and The Band led to their gradual but steady change in direction, which was hinted at during the Edgefest '95 festival in Toronto when they played an entire set of Steve Miller songs. So, with a bit more experience under their belts, they recorded 'Great Pacific Ocean' EP with Steve Albini (Nirvana, Bush) in 1995 in Chicago. With Albini's knowledge of Canadian rock and significant pull with US major labels, Elektra signed the band in 1996 and backed their first full-length CD 'Sweet Homewrecker' in 1997.
With reluctance, the label released the single "North Dakota" from the album and after it did no chart action the label set Thrush Hermit into limbo while it focused on other priority acts. Meanwhile, the single did gain nominal success in Canada so the band had to scramble to raise money for a video which helped the album sell respectable numbers for a Canadian debut. However, Elektra paid the band for their troubles and cut them loose in early 1998. Since then, the group has been working with Dale Morningstar (Dinner Is Ruined) on an independent follow-up.
with notes from Fred Lajoie.
Singles
1997 North Dakota (Elektra)
Albums
1993 John Boomer
1994 Smart Bomb (Murderecords)
1995 Great Pacific Ocean EP (Murderecords)
1997 Sweet Homewrecker (Elektra)
Video
Compilation Tracks
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