Your Band Here - Jordan Klassen

Posted by Peter Hemminger in Stranger in the Alps

Jordan Klassen

(Photo: Andy Nichols)

Who: Jordan Klassen

What: Richly arranged indie-folk, heavy on melody and glockenspeil.

When: Klassen is releasing his new EP, St. Brigid, at the Marquee Room on Wednesday, August 18

How did you get started as a musician?
In grade 8, my mother forced me to take band class. I rocked the trombone. And also, I hated it. I made a pact with her that if I could quit, I would start guitar lessons. My guitar teacher was this '80s hair metal fellow who wore polyester shirts unbuttoned halfway down. I remember he said once "You're not too bad at this music thing, don't give up on it." Around that time I started writing songs, and loved it a lot.

How would you describe your sound?
I usually tell people that it's indie-folk. I'm not sure how accurate that is, because I think folk music is music that is stripped down and bare-bones; music of the people. I think my music is acoustic guitar-based pop that explores ambience. That sounds super dorky though. So indie-folk it is.

Why does Calgary need you?
Calgary doesn't need me as much as I need it! The community of musicians and artists in Calgary totally astounds and constantly encourages me, and people are just so darned loyal and supportive! I love it. If I have something to offer, it's to be a part of that community, to offer it another voice and be a good friend to other folks who love art.

Where will you be in five years?
I would love to be doing this as my full-time job. I would love to have traveled a whole lot more, and read a lot more books. As for location, I really have no idea! I tend to migrate a lot. Calgary still feels like home though, so I think it's a safe bet.

What's the first job you remember wanting?
My mother kept childhood memories books, and I looked through mine a little while ago. I think the first job I wanted was in grade 1. I wanted to be a comedian, so I could make people laugh. I also ate slugs and peed my pants, so my judgement could have been off.


more in Music Previews     |     posted Aug 17th, 2010 at 1:57pm     


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