Springing forth from the mind of vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter Micky Jane, Calgary’s Victrix connects the dots between bedroom folk, chamber pop, and the darker side of dream pop. The band deftly weaves together the more confessional side of classic songwriting with a strong penchant for synths, drum machines, and tastefully deployed melodic ornamentation, betraying an abiding interest in the granular details of songcraft and arrangement. The result is refreshingly original, very much inhabiting its own particular sonic universe while finding parallels with fellow idiosyncratic songsmiths like Regina Spektor, Fiona Apple, and PJ Harvey.
Victrix made their live debut this spring, followed by a performance at Sled Island, showcasing their new EP recorded with local art-pop maestro Chris Dadge (known for his work with Alvvays, Chad Van Gaalen, Marlaena Moore, Samantha Savage Smith, Sunglaciers) and scheduled for release this December.
Name:
Victrix
Genre:
Dark pop
Founded:
I started recording for Victrix in 2022 but we first started playing live this year.
# of Albums:
1 upcoming
Latest Album:
I Saw Me EP (upcoming)
Latest Single:
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
As a kid, I was obsessed with Hilary Duff.
Favourite musician now:
It’s hard to pick just one but Syd Matters, I love their unique sound. They’ve been a staple in my music library since high school, a place of comfort, and I frequently listen to their albums back to back. I want to say they’ve been my biggest musical inspiration.
Guilty pleasure song:
Probably “Play With Fire” by Hilary Duff. It came out when I was nine and I thought it was the hottest bop. Still holds up to this day in my opinion.
Live show ritual:
I like to warm up my vocals karaoke style by singing to my favourite tunes on the way to the venue.
Favourite local musician:
There are so many I love but right now I’m going to say Chris Dadge, he produced the upcoming EP and it was a great collaborative experience! He’s one of the most talented people I know and has had a huge influence on my music career. Check out his stuff, he’s worked on so many cool projects! He is also currently drumming in my project.
EP or LP?
I think an EP was the right move to get my foot in the door, but I’m planning on an LP next! I prefer listening to LPs from other artists because there’s more to love.
Early bird or night owl?
Definitely a night owl.
Road or studio?
We’ve only played locally thus far but it was a blast creating the EP in the studio!
Any shows or albums coming up?
My debut EP titled “I Saw Me” comes out on December 8th. We have a release show that evening at the Palomino with Faith Healer and Hermitess. I’ll be selling limited edition cassettes of the EP.
Where can we follow you?
Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Bandcamp | Spotify | Apple Music
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
I don’t go out much anymore, but I used to love going to Ship & Anchor, good food, vibe, and very reasonable prices.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
17th Ave has all the cool hangout spots.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Nose Hill. I grew up right next to it and have fond memories of various adventures.
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
The Palomino Smokehouse for sure, great atmosphere, cool sound, good people.
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Long & McQuade is my go-to, they have everything I need and the staff is always awesome. Though I would love to support locally-owned stores, let me know your favourites!
