Two of Kingston's preeminent musical acts, The Stephen Stanley Band and Dead Root Revival, are teaming up for a three-city tour including Toronto, Chelsea, QC, and a show here at home at The Broom Factory on April 5. Details and tickets here: web link

The collaboration between these two powerhouse indie rock bands has been in the works for a long time, and while the tour may be shorter than originally envisioned, both bands are excited to bring their music to audiences together.

“We’ve known each other for a long time,” they explain, reflecting on how the idea of a joint tour first came about. “We talked about it at The Grad Club fundraiser (web link) and at other shows. It just made sense.”

This isn’t the first time they’ve shared a stage. A show at Toronto’s Cadillac Lounge in the early days of Dead Root Revival and The Stephen Stanley Band marked an early collaboration. That venue has since closed, but the chemistry between the bands remains strong. “It’s not exactly the same vibe from each band, but it’s a great mix,” they note.

Live Music, Venues, and the Changing Landscape

Stephen Stanley is particularly excited about playing The Broom Factory in Kingston for the first time. “It’s a great space,” he says. “I love venues like that where the audience is right in front of you. You have a real connection.”

Kingston, as both bands agree, has developed a strong reputation for live music, with a thriving scene that includes everything from small club shows to larger venues. “For the size of the town, it’s pretty incredible how much live music is happening,” they observe.

But being an independent band on the road isn’t easy. Touring is expensive, and promotion has shifted dramatically. “Back in the early ‘90s, everything was word of mouth and posters. Now, it’s all online. You spend just as much time promoting on a computer as you do rehearsing or playing shows.”

Keeping the Music Alive

Despite the challenges, both bands remain dedicated to making music and keeping live performances alive. Dead Root Revival, fresh off the one-year anniversary of their album release, is staying busy with local shows and festival appearances. “Every show is an accomplishment for an independent band,” they emphasize.

Stephen Stanley echoes that sentiment, noting that while last year was packed with nearly 90 shows, he’s taking a more strategic approach this year—fewer shows, but more carefully planned. “I want to make every show as impactful as possible,” he says.

Creative Collaborations and Future Plans

Collaboration has been a driving force for Stephen Stanley, who has worked with a variety of artists over the years. “I love incorporating other people into my music. It keeps things fresh,” he says. He’s also organizing a tribute show in Toronto this May to honor the late Dave Bookman, featuring covers of The Tragically Hip’s music.

As for Dead Root Revival and The Stephen Stanley Band, could a songwriting collaboration be in the works? “Who knows?” they joke. “Maybe something will come out of this tour.”

Both musicians describe their songwriting process as organic, happening in unpredictable bursts rather than structured sessions. “I don’t sit down with three ideas on a board like some people do,” Stanley laughs. “For me, a song starts forming while I’m out walking or doing something totally unrelated.”

Kingston fans can catch The Stephen Stanley Band and Dead Root Revival live at The Broom Factory on April 5, thanks to KPP Concerts (web link). Expect a night of dynamic and driven rock from two bands that bring passion and energy to every show.

With doors opening at 7:00 PM and music kicking off at 7:30 PM, it’ll be an early night, but with Kingston’s thriving late-night music scene, there’s always more to see after the final encore.

For rock 'n roll lovers, this is a show not to be missed! Posted: Apr 3, 2025