The Echo Hunters feature the collective writing and performing talent of longtime friends Larry Cassini (lead guitar, vocals, bass, harmonica), Gordie Fleming (lead vocals, 12-string guitar, harmonica) and Rob Couture (drums, percussion), plus additional members of the collective : Kirk Fontaine (vocals, guitars, and more…), Carl Rufh (vocals, bass),  and Sylvain Dancausse (violin).

The band has played concerts and festivals from Montréal, Québec to Yosemite, California; Vancouver Island, British Columbia to Lunenberg, Nova Scotia, as well as clubs and showcases throughout North America (NxNE, Folk Alliance, and more). Along the way, they have opened for and backed UK rootsman Jim Condie, roots darling Penny Lang, bluesman Rob Lutes, most recently touring in Ontario and Québec with the UK’s Chris Jagger’s Atcha (brother of the brother). Montreal is home base and where they’ve gained a loyal and devoted following over the years, playing on the folk/roots circuit. Their sound features haunting vocal harmonies on thoughtful lyrics, driving acoustic guitars and an eclectic rock ‘n roll groove; it can be classified as folk-rock, but with blues, gospel and country roots. They also have a quirky side and will cause an audience much mirth in the course of an evening… or weekend (they’re great at jams).

Larry Cassini, vocals and lead guitar, has performed with the Digitals, Bo Diddley, Del Shannon, Penny Lang , Skipper Dean and is the guitarist for the popular Montreal People’s Gospel Choir. Larry’s background in sound engineering and experience as a music producer (Studio DNA) add to the band’s contemporary sound. Gordon Fleming‘s strong vocals and use of falsetto, unique 12 string acoustic guitar playing and blues harmonica are integral components of the Echo Hunters. He is from a remarkable musical family and has performed all his life. Rob Coutureholds down the fort with tight drumming. Kirk Fontaine, bass, guitar and backing vocals is a busy Montreal musician who is a member of Trick of the Tail and the Black Cadillacs.

What they say

“Great band, great records and great live…..not to be missed” Barry Marshall-Everett, House of Mercy records/Radio Station, London UK

“I had the chance to play the same stage as the Echo Hunters one evening and it was my own good fortune. These guys are really melodic and have a pile of great original and singable tunes backed by some serious musicianship. They should not be missed.” Terry Tufts (songwriting winner, From The Heart 2001)

“I’ve gotten great reviews for The Echo Hunters! Thanks for putting me on to them!” Frank Opolko, CBC Radio Montréal

“Gordie… is a beautiful singer…” Jane McGarrigle

“Local heroes the Echo Hunters…” Mary Lamey, The Gazette

“The Echo Hunters were real tight – those close harmonies are thrilling.” Mike Regenstrief, CKUT Radio

Highlights

• Music award winners at Water Walker
• Film Festival : Rivière Dumoine: A Paddlers’ Journey. An immeasurable amount of talent contributed to the 22-piece soundtrack (mostly original compositions; The Echo Hunters, Ray Bonneville and more).
• Folquébec Showcase showcase,  Austin, TX
• Folquébec Showcase showcase,  San Diego, CA
• Recorded their first CD Twenty Years at Studio DNA with co-producer Dave Sturton; released September 2003 independently through BROS; guests include Shane Murphy, Bob Stagg and Stephane Gaudreau
• Sala Rossa, Montreal (May 2003) Ain’t Life Sweet – Penny Lang tribute
• Global-TV coast-to-coast (April 2003) Yellow Door’s 35th Anniversary all-star show
• Folquébec Showcase, Nashville, TN
• CBC National Radio coast-to-coast with Yellow Door anniversary show (Nov 2003)
• On the popular Folquébec double compilation* (European publishing interest)
• Cut on CBC’s DreamStream website virtual festival (click on folk/country)
• Anti-war song, Lay Down Your Arms released to local radio; airplay on CKUT Radio McGill and CBC
• Live CBC Radio Broadcast Radio Noon