Islands Members, Gear & Sound

Islands is a dynamic indie band that emerged from the rich musical landscape of Montreal, Quebec. Founded by Nicholas Thorburn (vocals, guitar), the group has seen various configurations but often collaborates with talented musicians like Jim Guthrie (guitar, keyboards). Known for their eclectic sound, Islands blends indie rock, indie pop, and freak folk with hints of "stomp and holler," making their music both unpredictable and captivating. With roots that trace back to Thorburn's earlier project, The Unicorns, Islands continues to explore new sonic territories, creating music that is both fresh and nostalgic.

Islands' sound is characterized by a blend of raw and colorful textures, often leaning towards a lo-fi, spontaneous vibe. Their recordings maintain an organic feel, with instruments bleeding into each other, creating a sense of immediacy and authenticity. Nicholas Thorburn's use of the Eastwood Airline Map DLX guitar, coupled with effects like the Fulltone OCD Obsessive Compulsive Drive and Homebrew Electronics HBE UFO Ultimate Fuzz Octave, adds a gritty, fuzz-laden edge to their sound. The combination of overdrive and fuzz effects enhances their music's expressive and unrefined nature, while synths and samplers contribute to the band's experimental, layered compositions. This approach ensures that Islands' music remains vibrant and engaging, with a sound that is both adventurous and grounded.