The Leake in Review

In this latest episode of The Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake is joined by Ryan Gullen, bassist and co-founder of the legendary Canadian rockers The Sheepdogs. What starts as a casual catch-up quickly turns into a rollicking, laugh-out-loud conversation that bounces from career highs to hilarious detours. Ryan walks Jeff through the wild story of The Sheepdogs landing the cover of Rolling Stone magazine — the first unsigned band ever to do so — and how that one moment changed everything for the band from Saskatoon. The guys then dive deep into their Canadian rock roots, trading stories about sharing stages and festival bills with The Tragically Hip and Bryan Adams. Ryan and Leake share never-before-heard tales of Gord Downie and the The Tragically Hip plus going topless for Bryan Adams Of course, the main event is the brand-new Sheepdogs album Keep Out of the Storm. Ryan gives listeners an exclusive deep dive: the writing process, the raw emotion behind the title track, and why this record feels like their most honest work yet. He even teases a few surprise guests and the southern-rock-meets-70s-classic sound that defines it. Then things take a gloriously weird left turn when the conversation somehow lands on… sex toys. What begins as a joke about “tour-bus essentials” spirals into ten minutes of absolute chaos as Ryan and Leake try to outdo each other with increasingly ridiculous stories. (Yes, there are sound effects. Yes, you will cry laughing.) Whether you’re a die-hard Sheepdogs fan, a Canadian rock historian, or just here for the unfiltered banter, this episode has it all: nostalgia, new music, and one of the funniest segments in podcast history. Grab your headphones, pour a drink, and settle in — Keep Out of the Storm is coming, and so is the laughter.

In this lively episode of *The Leake in Review*, host Leake sits down with Tim Chaisson and Jake Charron of the acclaimed East Coast folk band The East Pointers. Broadcasting from Toronto, the conversation dives deep into the highs and lows of life on the road as a touring musician. Tim and Jake share hilarious and harrowing stories from their extensive tours, including the unpredictable weather that always seems to catch up—blizzards in the Maritimes, scorching heat waves out west, and even navigating wildfires during Canadian summers that forced reroutes and smoky outdoor gigs. They reflect on how these elements not only test their resilience but inspire their music, turning chaos into creative fuel.   The spotlight shines on their brand-new album, *Schoonertown* (released January 23, 2026), which serves as an origin story for the band. Rooted in their Prince Edward Island upbringing, the record paints a vivid picture of youth's devastation and exhilaration—think small-town escapades, kitchen parties, first loves, family bonds, late-night drives, mistakes, laughter, ambition, and the raw energy of East Coast life. Tracks like the lead single "Ecstasy" capture that nostalgic yet forward-looking vibe, blending traditional fiddle-driven folk with modern production. Tim and Jake discuss the album's themes, recording process, and how it represents a return to their roots after years of international acclaim, including Juno wins and global festival runs.   Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their infectious sound, this episode is packed with insights on balancing tour life with creativity, plus tips for aspiring musicians on surviving the road's wild side. Tune in for laughs, heartfelt moments, and a sneak peek at what's next for these road warriors!   Stream the full episode on your favorite podcast platforms, and don't forget to subscribe to *The Leake in Review* for more artist spotlights. Follow @TheLeake on X for updates!   ### The East Pointers' Social Media Stay connected with Tim, Jake, and the band for behind-the-scenes tour vibes, new music drops, and more: - **Instagram**: [@theeastpointers](https://www.instagram.com/theeastpointers) - **Facebook**: [@theeastpointers](https://www.facebook.com/theeastpointers) - **X (Twitter)**: [@TheEastPointers](https://x.com/TheEastPointers) - **Official Website**: [theeastpointers.com](https://theeastpointers.com) (includes Linktree for streaming, merch, and more: linktr.ee/TheEastPointers) - **YouTube**: Search for "The East Pointers" for official videos and live performances - **Spotify/Apple Music**: Follow for *Schoonertown* and their full discography   ### Upcoming Tour Dates The East Pointers are hitting the road hard in 2026, mostly as special guests on Alan Doyle's *Already Dancing Tour* across Canada, with some festival spots and a massive hometown album release show. Here's the full list of confirmed dates (as of February 2026—check theeastpointers.com or Bandsintown for tickets, updates, or additions):   | Date | Location | Venue | Time | Notes | |------|----------|-------|------|-------| | Feb 27, 2026 (Fri) | St. John's, NL, Canada | JAG Soundhouse | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Feb 28, 2026 (Sat) | St. John's, NL, Canada | JAG Soundhouse | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 3, 2026 (Tue) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 4, 2026 (Wed) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 5, 2026 (Thu) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 6, 2026 (Fri) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 7, 2026 (Sat) | Moncton, NB, Canada | Molson Canadian Centre at Casino New Brunswick | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 8, 2026 (Sun) | Saint John, NB, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 10, 2026 (Tue) | Ottawa, ON, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 11, 2026 (Wed) | Kitchener, ON, Canada | Centre in the Square | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 12, 2026 (Thu) | Kitchener, ON, Canada | Centre in the Square | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 13, 2026 (Fri) | Montréal, QC, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 14, 2026 (Sat) | Toronto, ON, Canada | Massey Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 15, 2026 (Sun) | Toronto, ON, Canada | Massey Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 17, 2026 (Tue) | Thunder Bay, ON, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 18, 2026 (Wed) | Winnipeg, MB, Canada | Centennial Concert Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 19, 2026 (Thu) | Saskatoon, SK, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 20, 2026 (Fri) | Regina, SK, Canada | Conexus Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 21, 2026 (Sat) | Edmonton, AB, Canada | Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 22, 2026 (Sun) | Calgary, AB, Canada | Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 24, 2026 (Tue) | Trail, BC, Canada | Charles Bailey Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 25, 2026 (Wed) | Vancouver, BC, Canada | Orpheum Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 26, 2026 (Thu) | Kelowna, BC, Canada | Kelowna Community Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 27, 2026 (Fri) | Victoria, BC, Canada | Royal Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Mar 28, 2026 (Sat) | Victoria, BC, Canada | Royal Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | Apr 25, 2026 (Sat) | Charlottetown, PE, Canada | Eastlink Centre | 7:30 PM | Hometown *Schoonertown* Release Show (All Ages) | | May 12, 2026 (Tue) | Phoenix, AZ, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | May 13, 2026 (Wed) | Phoenix, AZ, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | May 14, 2026 (Thu) | West Hollywood, CA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | May 15, 2026 (Fri) | Novato, CA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Bandits On The Run | | May 16, 2026 (Sat) | Portland, OR, United States | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | May 17, 2026 (Sun) | Edmonds, WA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:30 PM | w/ Alan Doyle | | May 29, 2026 (Fri) | Kerrville, TX, United States | Kennedy Outdoor Theater (Kerrville Folk Festival) | 10:00 PM | Festival Appearance | | Jul 3, 2026 (Fri) | Miramichi, NB, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 5:00 PM | New Maritime Music Fest | | Jul 31, 2026 (Fri) | Mulhurst, AB, Canada | Hilah Ayers Wilderness RV Park (Pigeon Lake Music Festival) | 7:00 PM | Festival Appearance |   Catch them live if you're in Toronto on March 14-15 at Massey Hall—perfect for locals! 🎻🚀

Mike & Donovan Bring the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival to The Leake in ReviewIn this lively installment of The Leake in Review, host Leake (@TheLeake) steps away from the music spotlight to dive into the world of live comedy with two key players behind one of Canada's most unique festivals: Mike and Donovan from the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival.Donovan — better known to fans as the hilariously strict "Park Ranger Donovan" (complete with uniform, questionable park rules, and a knack for improvised chaos) — joins alongside Mike to unpack what makes this outdoor comedy extravaganza stand out. The festival blends cabaret-style shows under the stars with big-name headliners  and rising local talent, all while turning parks and green spaces into roaring comedy clubs.The conversation kicks off with Donovan's origin story: how his over-the-top park ranger persona evolved from improv roots into the festival's official (and unofficial) mascot/spokesman. Mike provides the behind-the-scenes perspective, discussing the challenges and thrills of producing large-scale outdoor events — from scouting perfect natural venues to building community vibes, partnering with cities, and creating memorable experiences that feel more like a wild adventure than a standard comedy show.Sign up on the official site for updates: https://greatoutdoorscomedyfestival.com/Here's the full list of 2026 locations, all dates, and confirmed main headliners/top billed acts (as of mid-February 2026 announcements):Edmonton, AB (Kinsmen Park) – July 17–19, 2026Friday, July 17 (Evening): TBASaturday, July 18 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife & Friends (main headliner)Sunday, July 19 (Afternoon & Evening): TBAWinnipeg, MB (Assiniboine Park) – July 17–19, 2026Friday, July 17 (Evening): TBASaturday, July 18 (Afternoon & Evening): TBASunday, July 19 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife & Friends (main headliner)Halifax, NS (Garrison Grounds) – August 6–9, 2026Thursday, August 6 (Evening): Matt Rife & FriendsFriday, August 7 (Evening): Matt Rife & FriendsSaturday, August 8 (Afternoon & Evening): Andrew Schulz (Saturday Evening in some listings; others TBA)Sunday, August 9 (Afternoon & Evening): Nikki Glaser (closing headliner, with Fortune Feimster & Steph Tolev) + Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Sunday Afternoon)Calgary, AB (Prince’s Island Park) – August 28–30, 2026Friday, August 28 (Evening): Matt Rife & FriendsSaturday, August 29 (Afternoon & Evening): TBASunday, August 30 (Afternoon & Evening): TBAVancouver, BC (Stanley Park) – August 28–30, 2026Friday, August 28 (Evening): TBASaturday, August 29 (Afternoon & Evening): Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Saturday Afternoon); others TBASunday, August 30 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife (Sunday Evening headline); Jeff Arcuri (Sunday Afternoon)Spokane, WA (ONE Spokane Stadium) – August 29–30, 2026Saturday, August 29 (Evening): Matt Rife & FriendsSunday, August 30 (Evening): Bill Burr (confirmed headliner)Mississauga, ON (Erindale Park) – September 11–13, 2026Friday, September 11 (Evening): John Mulaney (with Nick Kroll, Mike Birbiglia, Fred Armisen)Saturday, September 12 (Afternoon & Evening): Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Saturday Afternoon); others TBASunday, September 13 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Mathews & Jordan Jensen (Sunday Afternoon); TBA for Evening 

In this must-listen episode, host Jeff Leake sits down with legendary Canadian music historian and broadcaster Alan Cross to dive deep into the brand-new documentary CFNY: The Spirit of Radio.From its humble beginnings in a little yellow house in Brampton, CFNY (the station that inspired Rush's iconic hit "The Spirit of Radio") became a global force in punk, new wave, and alternative music during its groundbreaking years. Alan shares insider stories from the station's golden era, reflects on its massive influence on artists, and more, and discusses what makes this fresh documentary the definitive tribute to a true radio revolution.Whether you're a longtime Edge listener, a Rush fan, or just love the history of modern rock radio, this conversation is packed with nostalgia, behind-the-scenes gems, and pure musical passion.Tune in now! 🎙️📻

In this episode, John-Angus MacDonald joins host Leake to discuss touring, recording sessions with friends Gord Sinclair (of The Tragically Hip) and Brett and Jay Emmons (of The Glorious Sons), the new album The Bloody Light, busking, and more.Catch The Trews on TourDateVenueCity January 15, 2026OLG Stage at Fallsview CasinoNiagara Falls, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 13, 2026Commodore BallroomVancouver, BChttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 15, 2026Midway Music HallEdmonton, ABhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 16, 2026The Palace TheatreCalgary, ABhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 18, 2026Coors Event CentreSaskatoon, SKhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 21, 2026Burton Cummings TheatreWinnipeg, MBhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 23, 2026Thunder Bay Community AuditoriumThunder Bay, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 28, 2026The Colosseum at Caesars WindsorWindsor, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/Tickets are available via Ticketmaster, Bandsintown, Songkick, and the band's website.Official Social Media PagesOfficial Website: www.thetrewsmusic.comFacebook: facebook.com/thetrewsmusicInstagram: @thetrewsmusic (via their Linktree)X (Twitter): @thetrewsYouTube: youtube.com/thetrewsAll Links (including Spotify, TikTok, etc.): linktr.ee/thetrews

Steve Bays returns to the program after a power outage at his place. He and Leake talk about tech, and AI in music, new music coming as a solo project and an upcoming performance at the Andy Kim Christmas in Vancouver.Steve Bays' Social Media Profilesinstagram.com/stevebaysx.com/stevebays](https://x.com/stevebayswww.youtube.com/@stevebayshttps://open.spotify.com/artist/SteveBays

In Part 1 of Steve Bays’ appearance on The Leake in Review, the Hot Hot Heat frontman-turned-producer shares the pivotal role his mom played in his musical journey—never once telling him to turn down his basement drums or skip guitar lessons, instead becoming his biggest cheerleader and giving him the freedom to chase music without limits. He then takes listeners inside the exciting (and occasionally chaotic) process of building his brand-new, dream studio, plus Steve talks about how he ended up living on a boat.

In this electric episode, Hollerado’s unstoppable frontman Menno Versteeg pulls up a chair and rewinds to the record that changed everything: 111 Songs for the Broken Hearted, the surprise 2024 reunion album that brought the band back from “indefinite hiatus” and instantly sold out every Canadian club date the second it was announced. A full-blown comeback, plus a recap of Demo in a bag with its production schedule.

In this week's captivating installment of The Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake welcomes Piers Henwood, the dynamic force behind Amelia Artists and a veteran of the music industry's highs and lows. From his roots as a guitarist in the indie rock outfit Jets Overhead to his evolution into a powerhouse manager and label executive, Henwood pulls back the curtain on a career that's as unpredictable as a sold-out festival set.

While still on a cross-Canada tour with Blue Rodeo, Nova Scotia’s own Adam Baldwin makes a triumphant return to the podcast. The guys dive into the magic (and occasional chaos) of opening for one of Canada’s most legendary bands, the upcoming headline dates Adam has lined up, and why sharing the stage with Blue Rodeo still feels surreal after all these years.Adam gets real about how constant travel has shifted his perspective on everything from songwriting to small-town life, and why the road remains the best education a musician can get. Of course, no Baldwin episode would be complete without some candid talk about social media: Adam explains why TikTok has become a no-go zone for him, and how he’s happily retreated to more old-man platforms.Official Website: adambaldwin.caFacebook: @adambaldwinmusicInstagram: @adambaldwinmusic (inferred from posts and standard handles)YouTube: @adambaldwinmusicSpotify: Adam BaldwinTikTok: Not actively used (as mentioned in recent podcast appearances, he avoids it as an unsafe space) Adam Baldwin Tour Dates (2025-2026)Adam Baldwin is touring extensively in 2025-2026, including headline shows and as a special guest for Blue Rodeo's 40th Anniversary Tour. For tickets, check adambaldwin.ca/tour or the respective platforms. Note: Some dates are subject to change; pre-sales are ongoing with code "CHEERS" for select shows. DateCityVenue/EventNotesJul 10, 2025Cavendish, PECavendish Beach Music FestivalFestival appearanceJul 16, 2025Halifax, NSTD Halifax Jazz FestivalFestival headlineJul 18, 2025Woodstock, NBDooryard Arts Festival - Main StageFestival appearanceOct 16, 2025Winnipeg, MBBurton Cummings Theatrew/ Blue RodeoOct 17, 2025Winnipeg, MBBurton Cummings Theatrew/ Blue RodeoOct 18, 2025Brandon, MBAssiniboine Credit Union Placew/ Blue RodeoOct 23, 2025Sault Ste. Marie, ONGFL Memorial Gardensw/ Blue RodeoJan 17, 2026(TBD - Canada)Blue Rodeo 40th Anniversary TourSpecial guestJan 23, 2026(TBD - Canada)Blue Rodeo 40th Anniversary Tourw/ Blue RodeoJan 24, 2026(TBD - Canada)Blue Rodeo 40th Anniversary Tourw/ Blue Rodeo

This week on Leake in Review, Jeff Leake welcomes a true sonic explorer—Jay Malinowski, frontman of Bedouin Soundclash and now the creative force behind his latest project, Malinowski and Landslid Stars. From the dub-soaked rhythms that defined a generation to the introspective textures of his new work, Jay opens up about the evolution of his sound, the stories behind the songs, and the spiritual undercurrents that guide his writing.This episode is a journey through memory, melody, and reinvention. Jay and Jeff dive into the poetic roots of Landslid Stars, the collaborative spirit behind the project, and what it means to create music that’s both personal and expansive.Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bedouin Soundclash or discovering Jay’s solo work for the first time, this conversation is a rich, reflective listen.

This week on Leake in Review, Jeff welcomes Afie Jurvanen, the mind behind Bahamas, for a wide-ranging conversation that’s equal parts grounded and reflective. They dive into Afie’s latest release, My Second Last Album—available everywhere now—and explore life in Nova Scotia, the ups and downs of touring, and the quiet gratitude that comes with building a career on your own terms.

In this episode of The Leake in Review, we sit down with Connor Pohl and Tay of Violet Night. We explore the band’s creative process, stories from the road, reflections on growing up in small-town British Columbia, and a sneak peek at new material slated for 2026.📱 Social Media ChannelsInstagram: @violetnightmusic Behind-the-scenes photos, tour updates, and moody visualsTikTok: @violetnightmusic Short clips, music teasers, and fan engagementTwitter/X: @violetnightband Tour announcements, release news, and direct fan interactionFacebook: facebook.com/violetnightmusic Event listings, merch drops, and video reelsYouTube: Violet Night Canada Official music videos, live performances, and lyric videos🎧 Streaming & MerchSpotify: Violet Night Stream albums like FLOODLINES, A Nitrate City, and ROSSO CORSA*Merch & Vinyl: Available via their Linktree Limited edition hoodies, splatter vinyl, and tour shirts

In this week’s Leake in Review, we sit with the rising pulse of Aysanabee’s who is set to tour the new release Edge of the Earth upcoming tour dates, and halloween tears. website - https://www.aysanabee.com/Tour dates.October Oct 2–4: Halifax, NS – Halifax Urban Folk FestivalOct 10: Nürnberg, Germany – Nürnberg Pop FestivalOct 14: Berlin, Germany – SchokoladenOct 16: Cologne, Germany – Gebäude 9Oct 17: Groningen, Netherlands – Simplon PoppodiumNovemberNov 6: Edmonton, AB – Double DragonNov 7: Fort Saskatchewan, AB – Dow Centennial Centre Shell TheatreNov 8: Red Deer, AB – Bo's Bar & GrillNov 11: Lake Country, BC – Creekside TheatreNov 13: Burnaby, BC – Shadbolt Centre For The ArtsNov 14: Vancouver, BC – The PearlNov 15: Victoria, BC – Wicket HallNov 17: Campbell River, BC – Tidemark TheatreNov 19: Vernon, BC – The Vernon Towne TheatreNov 20: Banff, AB – Jenny Belzberg TheatreNov 21: Calgary, AB – Commonwealth Bar & StageNov 22: Saskatoon, SK – Capitol Music ClubNov 24: Regina, SK – The ExchangeNov 25: Winnipeg, MB – The Park TheatreNov 28: Ridgeway, ON – The Sanctuary Centre For The ArtsNov 29: Orillia, ON – St Paul's CentreDecemberDec 5: Windsor, ON – MeteorDec 6: Walkerton, ON – Victoria Jubilee HallDec 7: Hamilton, ON – BridgeworksDec 11: Kingston, ON – The Broom FactoryDec 12: Gatineau, QC – Cabaret La BasocheDec 14: Thunder Bay, ON – Thunder Bay Community Auditorium

This week, The Leake in Review welcomes ska/punk veteran Darrin Pfeiffer, the iconic drummer behind Goldfinger, for a wild ride through the highs, lows, and hilarity of life inside a ska-punk institution. Darrin shares the story of how the bizarre tradition of fans eating a Twinkie out of his butt began, reflects on the band’s first big tour, and recounts the time he assured Canadian customs agents he wouldn’t steal a car while on the road with Goldfinger.

This week on The Leake in Review, Jeff sits down with indie rock veterans Yukon Blonde as they kick off their cross-Canada tour in support of their new album, Friendship & Rock 'N' Roll. From the creative process behind the record to the realities of life on the road, the band opens up about what fuels their sound, their evolution as artists, and why this album feels like a return to their rawest roots.

This week on Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake welcomes acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Jeremy Fisher for a candid and creative conversation that spans decades of music, reinvention, and storytelling.

In this laid-back yet electric episode, Leake sits down with Aussie psych-rock outfit Ocean Alley during their North American tour stop in Toronto. The conversation dives into the band's genre-defying sound that blends surf vibes, along with stories from life on the road—like sleeping upright—and how they balance creative freedom with an ever-growing fanbase.

Matt Andersen’s drops in on The Leake in Review to discuss his latest release The Hammer and the Rose, playing with big bands, and building a beautiful studio on his property.

In this week’s episode of Leake in Review, Adam Baldwin makes a triumphant return to the mic, bringing his trademark East Coast charm and gritty storytelling to the conversation. Adam opens up about his summer festival circuit—including performances at major Canadian events like the Cavendish Beach Music Festival and Harvest Music Festival—and teases a few surprise guests joining him onstage. He also shares tales from his recent cruise adventure, offering a few laughs and maritime-inspired reflections from life at sea.But the big headline? Adam reveals details about his newly announced tour supporting Canadian legends Blue Rodeo. He talks about what it means to join one of the country’s most beloved bands on the road. It’s a heartfelt, humorous, and hype-worthy chat—don’t miss it