Down the Lees, fronted by Laura Lee Schultz (LL) of bands such as Queazy, The Skinjobs and New Years Resolution, was initially a solo project in Vancouver that has developed into a dynamic band with a diverse style influenced by a range of genres including post-rock, shoegaze, hardcore, slowcore, and no-wave. The band has released three full-length albums, an EP, and various singles.
After moving to Belgium, Down the Lees transformed into a live tour-de-force as they played highly energetic shows throughout Europe. However, the pandemic forced LL to return to Canada, and the project was put on hold. To continue the band’s momentum, LL teamed up with Chris Carlson on bass and Andy Ashley on drums to create a live Canadian version of the band. Now, the Okanagan Valley trio delivers an explosive sound that melds thunderous guitars and pounding drums, while LL’s commanding vocals deliver stark and honest reflections on life’s harsh realities.
Name:
Down The Lees
Genre:
Post-rock, noise-rock
Founded:
2005
# of Albums:
3 albums, an ep and numerous singles
Latest Album:
Bury The Sun – recorded by Steve Albini
Latest Single:
Dead and Over – releasing everything on March 31, 2023
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Unwound, Sonic Youth, Sunny Day Real Estate, The Cure, PJ Harvey
Favourite musician now:
IDLES, Shannon Wright, Brutus, Big Brave, Pile
Guilty pleasure song:
Never ashamed to listen to music
Live show ritual:
Fries
Favourite local musician:
Danes, Fantasy Boys, Rong
EP or LP?
Vinyl anything
Early bird or night owl?
Night owl
Road or studio?
Both, please
Any shows or albums coming up?
Dead and Over is the first release in over 3 years…because pandemic. It releases everywhere on March 31. Also, Down The Lees is part of the Off White House Records label showcases with Danes and Fantasy Boys happening on April 21 (Red Gate ) and April 22 (Bullys).
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok
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Rapid Fire Local Questions
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Frankie We Salute You! – best vegan restaurant in Kelowna
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
Bernard Street right downtown because my friends have businesses on it and they are awesome! Like Hitz Boutique (former Vancouverites), Funktional and Frock & Fellow.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
We live right near the best lake, Okanagan Lake, so I’m going to go with that since beaches are the best.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Runaways, Jackknife, Dunnenzies
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Underground Records
