CMW Artist Profile: Groovy rockers, Smashing Satellites
Throughout Canadian Music Week, Riffyou.com will be introducing you to some of this year’s amazing lineup. Today, here’s a look at versatile Toronto rockers, Smashing Satellites. Catch them on Wednesday, May 6 at The Hideout (12am) and Friday, May 8 at The Phoenix Concert Theatre (10pm.)
Band Name: Smashing Satellites
Band Members: Salvatore Costa (creator/writer, lead vocals, guitars, keyboards, programming), Mick Valentyne (keyboards, guitars, backing vocals), Mykey Thomas (drums, backing vocals), and Devon Lougheed (keyboards, guitars, backing vocals).
Years Active: 2
City of Origin: Toronto, ON.
Latest Release: What It’s All About
Who are you and what do you do?
“We are a quartet from Toronto, Ontario making music we love for people who love to listen.”
In 20 words or less, how would you describe your band?
“Queen having a baby with Prince, who had a baby with Pink Floyd, who had a baby with MJ…”
Why should people care about your band?
“We don’t just make music; we are out to achieve a greater purpose in life…that of re-kindling the human spirit and bringing back touch.”
If someone comes to your show at CMW, what could they expect to see?
“A lot of groove and songs that can be understood and felt by anyone. We aren’t out to impress anyone. Our goal is for people to be able to leave the show feeling some connection to the band… inspired… to feel understood.”
How vital is CMW to a band in your position?
“It’s vital. However, every show is vital. We treat every show the same and give it 200%, because for us, that is what a person paying for a ticket to your show deserves whether it’s in front of 200 or 20,000 people.”
What do you hope to achieve at CMW?
“To play in front of new faces and more ears who hopefully turn into lifelong fans.”
Lots of CMW shows will be attended by music industry professionals – how does knowing that impact the way you approach these performances?
“It doesn’t really. It’s just another person to like or hate our music. They’re not anymore special than the person beside them who works a normal 9-5 job and is there to enjoy the show. We look at it as just another person to convert into a fan of our music and our vision.”
How much sleep do you anticipate having during CMW?
“Well… CMW is notorious for sleepless nights. I mean, come on – so many people who love music just roaming around Toronto, it’s NUTS. Thousands of people become the heartbeat of the city for the duration of the event. It’s just amazing.”
During your stay, where will you and your band be sleeping, showering, or taking groupies?
“Well, we’re from Toronto! So luckily enough we’ll probably sleeping at home… that is, if we make it home.”
At CMW we will mostly consume…
“I’m going to be lame here and say water. Being a singer especially during CMW, I always find that everywhere I look there is someone to talk to! So in turn, my voice ends up suffering. Water is always key! CMW is kinda like living in the desert for a week for a lead singer.”
CMW for us will be a failure if…
“I don’t see anything as failure. Any time you get to play in front of even one new person, it’s a win.”
CMW for us will be a success if…
“If the people we play in front of come back to our next show in Toronto.”
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