Emerging from the basement jams of East Vancouver back in 2002, The Twitch have spent over two decades proving that authentic rock 'n' roll is a timeless pursuit. What started as a group of friends "rocking out" has blossomed into one of Canada’s most compelling musical exports, with a sound that flows as freely as the wine they’ve shared over years of touring. Drawing deep from the well of 1960s British blues-rock—think the grit of Rory Gallagher and the heavy grooves of Led Zeppelin—the band has carved out a niche that is uniquely their own.
Today, the seven-piece powerhouse consists of vocalists Izzy Dakota Jones and Emily, guitarists Paul King and Patty M., bassist Harvey McCormick, drummer Scott Cameron, and keyboardist Mel Sawyer. Their latest offering, the sprawling epic ‘End Of The World’, signals a fascinating shift in their creative journey. We sat down with lead vocalist Izzy Dakota Jones to discuss their evolution into psychedelic territories, the global crises that fuel their lyrics, and why a nine-minute track is exactly what the world needs.
Thanks so much for joining us today! When did you first start making music? Where did it all begin, and what inspired you?
“I started making music about 30 years ago. In a basement in the hood of East Vancouver, BC, Canada. I’d say the British Invasion in the 60’s inspired me the most.”
Your new single is something special. Can you tell us a bit about it and what it means to you?
“It’s called ‘End Of The World’, it runs almost 9 minutes long, and it’s a song about hope, in a dangerous world.”
With it being such an expansive track, were there any artists, moments, or experiences that influenced you when writing the release?
“The forest fires going around the world, the climate change.”
What was your songwriting process for the release? How did it all come together?
“It was a joint effort between the band and I, also the producer, Bill Buckingham.”
How would you describe the sound on your latest release? Has there been a change or evolution in style since you first began?
“Yes, there’s been a change in the style of the way we write. The sound I would [say is] gothic, psychedelic rock sounding.”
Is there a central message or theme you were trying to convey in your latest release? Is there a moment in the release that really captures that idea?
“The chorus in the song capture the idea, it inspires hope.”
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations as an artist? Where do you see yourself in the next few years, both musically and personally?
“Becoming a bigger global act is how I would answer this.”
What's next after this release? Do you have any new releases or shows on the horizon?
“Yes, more internet live streaming, more songwriting of course.”
What sort of reception have you had to your latest release? Are there any memorable moments that stand out?
“Yes, people have coined our music as ‘Gothic, Psychedelic Rock’ sounding.”
Is there anything you would like to say to our audience? How can they connect with you and help support you?
“By checking out various social media sites: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Fanbase, X, Threads, Vimeo, and Twitch TV. I would say to our fans, and potential fans/listeners, keep supporting us, and rock on!”
With a sprawling new sound and a global vision, The Twitch are proving that their journey is only just beginning. Whether they are tackling the heavy realities of climate change or channelling the spirit of the 60s, their music remains a defiant beacon of hope. As they move towards live streaming and even more new material, one thing is certain: this is a band that knows exactly how to keep the fire of rock 'n' roll burning bright.
You can stream the bold new single above via Spotify, and for more from the band, be sure to connect on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.
