The Higher Key

The Higher Key is a 4 dimensional blend of rock/pop/funk and folk that fuse to create a tight wall of sound, which is both edgy and familiar. The band’s front man and primary songwriter, Mark Feldman, cut his 2008 EP in Nashville with a cast of top-notch musicians, only to come home with a fresh take on songwriting that drove band rehearsals and live shows to new levels. The band began to achieve some well-deserved recognition in the industry in the summer of 2009 when they edged out some 200 other artists as finalists in the Orange Lounge/YouDiscover Concert series in Niagara Falls. The result was a 2-song deal inked with Orange/InDiscover, that saw the band showcase their sound at CMW, and spend a productive session at Orange recording the project. These new songs quickly followed up the band’s own debut release, entitled “Who’s Got To Know” which contained more elements of the band’s rock roots. Most recently, The Higher Key have begun work on another record with their good friends at the legendary Phase One Studios. Three new songs are available for streaming on this site and the band plans to complete the record some time in 2012. Aside from The Higher Key’s seamless ability to put on a great show, it is truly the unique strength of their songs that should make this band a staple on your playlist.



  
Mark Feldman (Vocals, Guitar)  Has been writing songs since the age of 15 and has been singing and performing ever since.  He released 2 albums prior to joining forces with The Higher Key: Self Titled (Stageright Records 2004) and Extended Play (Stageright Records 2008).  "Feldman possesses the gift to turn a phrase and paint a musical picture like very few others.  His lyrics avoid simple cliches and are flavored instead by slices of life that come off with such an unthreatening normality that his music truly speaks to you." (Sean Flinn)   Regardless of the manner in which Feldman is singing, be it the soft and unique phrasing of "Look Beyond This" or the far edgier growls of "Anything and Everything," his ability to communicate is what stands out above all else. Much like Neil Young, Feldman can charm you one-on-one with his acoustic guitar, but also possesses the raw energy and intensity to own a rock show from start to finish.  In addition to last year's deal with Orange/InDiscover, 2011 has also seen Mark sign Licensing deals with A&G Sync (London/Los Angeles) and Triple Scoop Music (L.A.).  He has had material placed on the television series Ghost Whisperer  as well as Degrassi: The Next Generation.  In addition to writing/performing, Mark continues to self-produce many of his songs from his home studio.  You can catch him with the full band, or as a solo or duo nearly every weekend in Toronto.
 
 



Aaron Jones (Drums, Percussion, Vocals) Is the steady pulse that steers the sound of The Higher Key. He grooves when the songs groove, flashes when the rhythm asks for it, and embodies the soul of the music. Aaron started playing at age 12, following in the footsteps of his father, Normando Jones, and quickly developed a passion and feel for the kit. At 20, Aaron found himself enrolled in the drumming program at Humber College and surrounded by some of the city’s up-and-coming players. There, he had the opportunity to study with many great drummers like, Mark Kelso, Chendy Leon, Paul Delong and Don Vickery. The school’s reputation as one of the best, along with Aaron’s healthy competitive drive saw him climb the ranks and earn the respect of his peers and fellow musicians throughout the city. 







Enzo Boldrini (Lead Guitar, Vocals) When Enzo Boldrini took the stage for the first time at a legendary Healey’s open Jam in Toronto after only 2 years of playing, he began to turn heads. The crowd was inspired, and so was he. Ever since that moment, the self-taught, guitarist/ singer/ songwriter/producer has pushed the boundaries of creative playing and infused his tasty riffs with melodic movement and chord progressions. Enzo attended Seneca’s Independent Music Production Program from 2005-06 during which he played in dozens of bands and benefitted from rubbing shoulders with some of Toronto’s heavy hitters. He joined The Higher Key in 2007 and co-wrote nearly half of the material on their debut release. 







Chris Virtue (Bass) Started his professional career in his hometown of Victoria BC back in 2000. Since then he moved to Toronto to immerse himself in the rich musical culture that the big city had to offer. He received a Degree in Contemporary Music from Humber College in 2009 and has been playing ever since. He has performed with JUNO Award winning artist Johhny Favourite, as well many international artists. He joined The Higher Key officially at Phase One Studios this past April, and locked down the grooves that will help shape the new record.






Steve Didunyk (Keys, Vocals) is a self-taught keyboard player and songwriter who draws on influences as diverse as Pop/Rock, Blues, Celtic, Folk, and World music to craft his own unique style. He is an enthusiastic supporter of Canadian music, creator’s rights, and the craft of songwriting. Steve was the final piece of the puzzle in The Higher Key, contributing piano, organ, and other vintage textures into a genre of music that consistently asks for them. His vocals help round out a sound that is becoming more and more unique with every show that The Higher Key play


Some images © mrbill (cc).