Great Lake Swimmers

Tony Dekker is the musical mastermind behind Toronto-based Great Lake Swimmers. Formed in 2003, the band is rounded out by Erik Arneson on banjo and guitar, Greg Milson on drums, Darcy Yates on upright bass, and Julie Fader on keyboard and backup vocals and has come to be one of Canada’s most highly-acclaimed “ambient folk” outfits.

Great Lake Swimmers released their self-titled debut in 2005 and their next two follow-ups, Bodies and Minds and Hands in Dirty Ground, on Toronto record label weewerk. Signing onto Nettwerk in early 2007, the band released Ongiara later that year. Now, on the verge of releasing their fourth studio album, Lost Channels, Great Lake Swimmers has embarked on a cross-country tour.

The band’s skilled songwriting skills are showcased as they explore the realms of folk, roots, and alt country pop. Dekker’s clear yet raspy, melodic and steady vocals are accompanied by the richly harmonious, delicately layered instruments. Their first single off of the new album, “Pulling on a Line,” is an easy-listening mid-tempo tune that shows off Dekker’s deceivingly simple songwriting skills. Another song, “Everything is Moving So Fast” is a dark and haunting ballad. Drawing comparisons to Iron and Wine and the Red House Painters, Great Lake Swimmers provide thoughtful, soothing acoustic lullabies.

Great Lake Swimmers have already begun their tour out east but will finish up the Canadian leg in Vancouver at the end of March. Then, they will move onto touring the U.S. before heading over to Europe in the summer. Catch this talented Canadian band for a good, honest show. For a complete list of tour dates, check out the band’s website at http://www.greatlakeswimmers.com/.