Based out of Montreal, Triskalia came together in 2002 as an alternative Pagan band. Triskalia brings together divergent musical styles to form a unique sound. The songs are based around the themes of Myth, Magick and Mysteries and how they interact with our lives in a modern context. I caught up with Triskalia last night at their show at O'Shea's Bar on 5202 Queen-Mary Road. The seats were filled with Triskalia followers, made obvious by their Pagan/Celtic fashions they were sporting. With the smooth, sultry, spiritual sounds coming from the stage it was understandable why Triskalia would have a devoted following of their own. Triskalia woos their listeners with their cool and even rhythms, the amazing vocal range of Elodee, and a style that is all theirs. Triskalia pulls from Pagan tradition the sense that we are all part of the music, and puts it on stage with the impression that we have entered a sacred ritual. If not for the electric sounds, I could have closed my eyes and imagined I was at a bonfire and I too was chanting along.
Jason G. Bernard, who leads this hard working band, is an ambitious man with a strong and positive vision of where Triskalia is going in the near future. Jason has taken such a wide blend of musical styles, mixed them together with Pagan traditions and has created a sound that is truly unique and truly Canadian. Even though Triskalia has only been a band for two years, this fine group of musicians play as though they have been together a whole lifetime. Keep an ear out on the Canadian Music scene for Triskalia, who knows, possibly a Juno one day.
Check out the new Triskalia CD titled Myth, Magick and Misteries, due to come out in a few weeks. It can be ordered through their website at www.triskalia.com or at select shops.
The Band:
Jason G. Bernard.........vocals, guitars and bodhron.
Ryan Higgins............. drums.
Mark Antoine Lebeau...violins and guitars.
Elodee..................... vocals and keyboards.
Roger Lymburner.........bass and guitars
Set List:
Hapus Ye Demi
Necronomicon
Avian
Different
Cruelty
Tempest
Immortals
Sally
Pagan Heart
Mabon and Lugh
Magickal
Come a Time
Maiden Mother Crone
Pixie'o
Whispering Pines
Fire Dance
Baroness Caerleon
Fortune Teller
Come Dans la Nuits