Native to Edmonton, The Grassroot Deviation is a four piece musical group relentlessly wandering the spectrum of roots, rock and funk. Blending a multiplicity of musical genres, expressive lyrics, compelling rhythms and guitar harmonies, the band delivers a vibrant and explosive live experience. Consisting of guitarists/vocalists Brian Parker and Dan Smith, bassist/fiddler Mike Barer and drummer Vinay Jhass, The Grassroot Deviation is a mainstay of the burgeoning Alberta live music scene.
The Grassroot Deviation has shared the bill with an eclectic range of acts including Wide Mouth Mason, Captain Tractor, The Uncas, Blue Quarter, The Agriculture Club, Kent McAlister & his Band and The Fabulous Beefeders. They have performed all over Western Canada, pleasing audiences with their diverse, Alberta driven compositions.
In March 2006, The Grassroot Deviation released their self-titled debut album. The disc has been compared to “a soothing road trip…meandering along various prairie roads, bombing down the Trans-Canada, hoping on and off a few trains, with a quick detour through the funk bars of Detroit and the sunny beaches of the Florida Keys.” (Edmonton Journal, March 24 2006). The record includes guest musicians Dave Cohen (Johnny Reid Band), Kiron Jhass (Edmonton’s The Uncas), Doug Organ (Edmonton’s Roger), Calgary poet Spencer Brown, and horn players Brett Miles, Bob Tildesley and Craig Brenan.
With frequently sold out shows, a devoted fan base, and a constantly evolving sound, The Grassroot Deviation is energized about the future. With no plans for slowing down, watch for the musical deviation to continue…!
