Photo credit: Bella Brough
SHEBAD is the creative spirit of visual artist and vocalist Claire Voy and multi-instrumentalist Ciccio Spagnolo. This Guelph-based music project plays on the exploratory realm of Indie Soul, characterized by jazz-influenced melodies, danceable basslines, and Claire’s transcendent voice. Their sound is a synthesis of influences like Stevie Wonder, Hiatus Kaiyote, Amy Winehouse, Daft Punk, and Erykah Badu, making the music compelling and curious with lyrics from the heart. CBC’s Laila Biali aptly describes their sound as “Music that exists in a sonic world of its own.”
Claire Voy is a multidisciplinary artist exploring themes of queerness, spirituality, and human connection. Through drawing, painting, and printmaking, Claire embodies her commitment to exploring the complexities of identity and existence. Ciccio Spagnolo is a multi-instrumentalist and passionate music educator who teaches in a forest setting at The Guelph Outdoor School. They share the experience of being the only musicians in their families, learning from local legends, listening and loving music. When Claire and Ciccio come together, the result is vibrant music that explores inner and outer worlds, humanity, and love; creating a sound that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
Performing live as a 5-piece arrangement, the band kicked off 2024 with direct support slots for Kamasi Washington, Thievery Corporation, and Anomalie. They are on the festival circuit this summer, including appearances at Hillside, Mariposa Folkfest, and headline slots at both the Guelph and Toronto Jazz Festivals. These shows are the precursor to their debut album release, ‘Music is the Answer’, that will be out November 1st 2024. This album explores the power of music as a life-affirming guide, featuring 11 new tracks that reflect their dedication to their craft.
Claire Voy – vocals, guitar
Mark Ciccio Spagnolo – bass
Emmit Leacock – drums
Bridget Walsh – violin
Emil White – keys
Friday 13 September • 8pm • TD Market Square Stage • Free • [Support the GJF]
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