Daybreak Gentlemen are a Waterloo-based pop, indie, rock band whose original sound is attracting a lot of attention. Though only formed in 2010, the band has learned to blend creative keys and smooth, catchy vocals with tight instrumental support. The result is a well-groomed, mature brand of pop that offers some surprising synth and an artistic flare.



Daybreak Gentlemen have also played a host of venues in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, with a well coordinated and calm stage presence. The band joined Supernova’s Road to ExFest series this past summer, earning a special award for their ability to engage the crowd. Since then, fans have been a huge source of support for the band, helping to also vote them in as the Indie Online Band of the Month in December. This distinction led to a station interview and airplay for Daybreak Gentlemen on 102.1 The Edge, which has only helped their fan base continue to grow.



We were fortunate to grab an interview with Daybreak Gentlemen after their recent airplay on 102.1 The Edge, and asked the band about their music, their success, and their advice for other independent artists who want to break out.

Introducing Daybreak Gentlemen:

Zack Niven - vocals/bass

Josh Niven – guitar

Ryan Fyfe – guitar

Ryan Salvatore – drums

Bingo Pyjama – keys/vocals/bass


So tell me, how did you come to form a band?

We’ve all been friends for years. The Niven brothers and Bingo have been playing music together for almost a decade. All of us have worked on various projects with each other but for one reason or another we were never able to get anything out of the basement.

Collectively Daybreak Gentlemen was formed late one night in November of 2010 at the back of a pub by Ryan, Fyfe and Zack. Around that time we brought in an up and coming drummer who really fit the sound and when Bingo returned from Europe, the current line up was complete.

We have been playing shows for the last six months in the Kitchener area and after winning 102.1 the Edge's Indie Online Band of the Month, we are beginning to play more frequently in Toronto, looking for shows all across Southern Ontario.

Congrats on the win! How would you describe your sound?

The easiest way to describe our sound is indie rock that compels people to follow along. There is a tremendous amount of energy in our live shows and we love to get the crowd involved. We like to take what we call a ‘mid-fi’ approach to our sound, which is basically capturing the best possible quality but making sure it still has the tie loosened. In our music you can expect a lot of layered guitar tones coupled with 'dancey synth' elements.



That's a very accurate description. For you, what is the most rewarding thing about making this kind of music?

The most rewarding aspect is having people dig on the music you create. We have had tremendous turnouts and support for our shows and are thankful that so many people are responding to what we have created.

Is there any other artist who you’d consider a ‘mentor’?

We have many points of influence; so many in fact that to name one without naming them all, would be an injustice to the talented group that inspires us.

Haha, fair enough. What is the biggest challenge faced by new artists?

The biggest challenge would have to be work ethic; we all work full time and have to dedicate the majority of our spare time to composing/recording/rehearsing our music. Nothing happens overnight and there is a tremendous amount of sacrifice and work involved. The perception exists that being in a band is all about parties and playing live shows, there is a ton of work behind the scenes that a lot of people aren't willing to do.

Very true. How did your band find Supernova?

We found it through a Google search. Supernova is an excellent way to get some extra promotion in the online world; a great medium to reach new audiences.

What advice would you give to another artist, who wants to be like you?

1. Avoid gardening accidents.
2. Avoid pedal-board malfunctions at all costs!

Is there such a thing as ‘bad’ music?

The only definition for bad music is, “music without soul.” One example is Nickleback.



Haha.. tell me, what is your most memorable moment (so far) as a band?

The most memorable to date would be winning the 102.1 the Edge’s Indie Online Band of the Month contest. To hear your songs on the radio for the first time is a truly rewarding experience.

Totally. Is there anything else that new listeners should know?

We love neon lights.


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You can catch Daybreak Gentlemen as they perform in support of the EP release for Shark Week (another band who's graced the Supernova stage!). That show will take place Friday March 30th, at the Velvet Underground in Toronto.

Until then, check out more original music from the band here and be sure to leave some fan feedback - you might even recognize the track that's being played on air at 102.1 The Edge!