Half Moon Run
Exhibitions & Theatrical, Music
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Half Moon Run is a Canadian indie rock band based in Montreal, Quebec, known for their sophisticated use of layered percussion, lush group vocal harmonies, and their impressive ability to play multiple instruments during live performances. The band was formed in 2009 in Montreal's Mile End neighbourhood by Conner Molander and Dylan Phillips, who had both moved to Montreal from Comox, British Columbia. They posted an ad on Craigslist looking for a bassist and/or drummer, which caught the attention of Devon Portielje, originally from Ottawa. Despite not being a bassist or drummer, he contacted Molander and Phillips, who agreed to let him join, forming the core trio that defines the band's sound.
The band released their debut album, "Dark Eyes," on March 27, 2012, which showcased their intricate arrangements and atmospheric indie rock sound. Their second studio album, "Sun Leads Me On," was released on October 23, 2015, further developing their musical complexity. On November 1, 2019, Half Moon Run released their third full-length album, "A Blemish in the Great Light," which won Adult Alternative Album of the Year at the 2020 Juno Awards, cementing their status as one of Canada's premier indie rock acts. On June 2, 2023, the band released their fourth studio album, "Salt," continuing their evolution as musicians.
Isaac Symonds, a talented vocalist and multi-instrumentalist initially brought on board in a supporting capacity, was promoted to permanent member status after two years. However, on May 25, 2020, the band announced that Symonds would be leaving the group. The official biography can be found on their website at halfmoon.run, where they continue to document their journey as one of Canada's most musically sophisticated indie rock bands.