One of today's most innovative vocal bands STREETNiX, the four-member group from Saskatoon, SK, has worked within the parameters of a cappella music and created the sounds of a full band by using only their voices. Their third album Ignition released in December, 1997 was recognized for this sound by being awarded Pop/Rock Album of the Year by the International Contemporary A Cappella Recording Awards. This recognition and their public appeal have encouraged STREETNiX to continue creating music as a band using only their voices as instruments.
Formed in the fall of 1991 by six students from the University of Saskatchewan, STREETNiX spent its early days performing mostly traditional a cappella standards at conventions, banquets and coffeehouses. After going through a few member changes, STREETNiX was transformed into a five-piece band that began to expand its performance venues to include public schools and community shows. In the summer of 1993, STREETNiX recorded their first CD, Listen, with producer Don Schmid, formerly the drummer for the Northern Pikes. To date, this album has sold more than 19,000 copies, making STREETNiX one of the top- selling independent recording artists in Saskatchewan.
In 1994, the members decided to pursue STREETNiX as a full-time career, and they embarked upon a successful cross-Canada summer tour including fringe festivals, public shows and exhibitions from Ottawa to Vancouver. This increased level of commitment led to a fall and winter tour of more than 200 performances in Saskatchewan and Alberta. However, it also led to another member change as two individuals chose to pursue careers in other fields. By the summer of 1995, a new four-part version of STREETNiX was performing in full force.
In late 1995, STREETNiX released their second CD, Time Permitting, of which over 10,000 copies have been sold. This album included a few more original songs and more interesting arrangements, as the band began to explore the more creative realms outside of traditional a cappella. That spring, STREETNiX performed a 15-minute showcase at Pacific Contact in Vancouver, which brought in over 200 shows for the 1996/97 touring year throughout the province of British Columbia. This vast performing opportunity allowed STREETNiX to develop their live show into a truly amazing experience. Again, more daring arrangements evolved, including contemporary rock songs which were performed with only four voices, but carried the impact and full sound of a live band.
STREETNiX then made another important decision in their career. In the summer of 1997, they would record an a cappella album unlike anything ever done before. Original songs were scored, two professional producers were brought in, and two months of studio time were booked. In late 1997, Ignition, was released. Response from the public and the media has been impressive. Ignition has received airplay on college and commercial radio stations in many cities across Canada, the United States, and most recently, England.
With their new sound, founding members Aaron Genest, BJ Harris, Tony Hughes and newest member Thom Speck, from Toronto, are expanding their performance repertoire and beginning to plan for their album 2000. Their current show incorporates the studio techniques and sounds created during the recording of Ignition (while remaining completely live), into an exciting full-length performance. The new show, featuring songs from Ignition, began in the fall of 1998 and has furthered STREETNiX' reputation as a group to watch for in Canada.
STREETNiX has performed alongside such artists as Lawrence Gowan, Ashley MacIsaac, Susan Aglukark, Lisa Brokop, John McDermott, Bob McGrath, Charlie Major, Chris Cummings, Prairie Oyster, Connie Kaldor, Farmer's Daughter, and Jason McCoy, and has opened for Spirit of the West and The Band. STREETNiX has recorded songs for SaskTel commercials and has performed on 'Gabereau Live' and 'Breakfast Television' in Halifax, Calgary and Vancouver.
