Joel Gibb: vocals/guitar
Maggie MacDonald: glockenspiel/keyboard
Laura Barrett: keyboard/piano
Paul Mathew: bass/guitar/keyboards
John Power: drums
Jon Hynes: bass/guitar
Lief Mosbaugh: viola
Jamie McCarthy: violin
Ivan Turkalj: cello
Mike Olsen: cello
Mez: bass/drums/guitar/tambourine/keyboard
Shaun Brodie: trumpet/guitar/keyboard

www.thehiddencameras.com
www.myspace.com/hiddencameras

They’ve described their sound as “gay church folk music”, an 8+ piece indie / pop band from Toronto, The Hidden Cameras, are not typical by any means. Aside from your regular guitar, bass, drums and keyboard or piano, they also incorporate the viola, violin, cello, tambourine and trumpet, for a unique sound that vocalist Joel, invites all to label in their own words. Check out some short Q&A’s with Joel below.

Questions written by Michelle, 24
Answered by vocalist, Joel Gibb.

mym: How did you first come to realize, that music, performing, and the arts, were for you?

Joel Gibb (JB): I have been interested in music ever since I can remember. That was always my favourite thing growing up. I think it is important for people to just follow what they are most passionate about. Performing was something that came later, after I had acquired some instruments and some confidence and had practiced enough.

mym: How do you maintain your focus, and stay true to your own values and goals while collaborating with so many different musicians?

JB: I am driven by my songs and I guess that it’s what gives me some focus to organize a band. I have been doing this so long now that it comes like second nature.

mym: Is it true that you have described The Hidden Cameras sound as "gay church folk music"? If so, do you think your sound has changed since then? Would you describe your sound any differently today?

JB: Yes on some flyers for some early shows. Our music can be so many things, it has no bounds. And yes, our music is constantly evolving. Would prefer people who write about our music to make their own interesting label or description of what they hear.

mym: You're about to start out on a huge North American Tour, what's one thing you can't go on the road without?

JB: Boots.

mym: Do you think your song lyrics can help a young person going through a rough time?

JB: Yes.

mym: If you could play a show with any musician, dead or alive, who would you chose, and why?

JB: Nina Simone

mym: How do you keep yourself in check, and not let your growing celebrity status get the best of you?

JB: You're assuming it hasn't yet. ha ha. Green tea, stretching, calling mom, and thanking God publicly once a week will do it.

mym: What's your favourite stress buster?

JB: Sex

mym: What gives you hope?

JB: Friends and beautiful things.