Smallman Signs Sylvie

Winnipeg independent label Smallman Records is pleased to announce the signing of SYLVIE. Their record An Electric Trace is scheduled for release October 25, 2005.

Regina has produced many talented musicians over the years and SYLVIE finds itself positioned squarely amongst those ranks. Together since 1999, the band features singer/guitarist Joel Passmore of recently disbanded Despistado, alongside bass player Riva Farrell Racette, guitarist Chris Notenboom and drummer Jeff Romanyk.

This new 12-song full-length was recorded with Juno award winning producer Brandon Friesen out of Studio 11 in Winnipeg. The pairing of Joel�s raspy vocals with Riva�s melodic charm creates a sound that is at once both intense and beautiful. This dynamic is interwoven seamlessly throughout the album to an arresting effect. Comparisons to Minus the Bear, Jawbox and Pretty Girls Make Graves hint at their influences, but are unable to completely encapsulate SYLVIE�s sound.

Listeners and witnesses to their live show are exposed to an experience altogether new. SYLVIE�s ability to layer sounds to create the single idea of a song has been impressing audiences wherever they play. Tours have included playing with such notables as Death From Above 1979, the Smugglers, Hot Hot Heat, the Constantines, Wintersleep, & Uncut. SYLVIE showcased this year at NXNE, has an upcoming tour with Controller Controller, and will be touring like mad this fall in support of An Electric Trace.

An Electric Trace is scheduled for release October 25, 2005 through Smallman Records. Owner Rob Krause proclaims:

�After much bartering in which we lost a welcome mat, a rubber plant and a semi functioning electric stove - yet gained a cot, four lovely terra cotta plant holders and an oven mitt - we are fortunate enough to work with these fine folks.�

Given the strength of SYLVIE�s songs and their endless drive, the upcoming year will undoubtedly be their most productive and successful to date.