Aces Wild
Websites:Â
No
Origin:
London, Ontario, 🇨🇦
Biography:
Aces Wild: Canada’s Hidden Hard Rock Gem
Aces Wild was a hard rock band formed in London, Ontario, in the late 1980s. Emerging during the golden age of Canadian rock, the band stood alongside legends like Triumph, Rush, Max Webster, and Honeymoon Suite while forging their unique path in the hard rock and AOR scene. Known for their technical musicianship, melodic songwriting, and energetic live performances, Aces Wild left an indelible mark on the Canadian music landscape.
The Early Years and Deal Us In
Formed in 1989, Aces Wild quickly gained recognition for their dynamic stage presence and tight sound. The band was heavily influenced by the classic rock styles of Van Halen, Warrant, Metallica, Harem Scarem, and Honeymoon Suite. Their debut EP, Deal Us In, was released exclusively on cassette in 1991 and showcased their blend of melodic rock, AOR finesse, and hard-edged metal. The EP featured tracks like "Hands of Time" and "Phone Sex Girl", which became underground hits among Canadian rock fans.
The band performed as headliners at local venues and supported major acts such as Warrant, Harem Scarem, and Honeymoon Suite, establishing themselves as a formidable live act. Despite their indie status, Deal Us In hinted at their potential to break into the larger rock scene.
The Cult Classic: Race
In 1993, Aces Wild released their full-length debut album, Race. The record was a culmination of their hard work, blending soaring melodies, intricate guitar work, and powerful vocal harmonies. Produced by Peter Brennan, the album featured standout tracks like "Satisfy You", "Frustration", and "Sirens in the Night".
The band’s sound on Race was often compared to Harem Scarem’s harmonies, Honeymoon Suite’s AOR polish, and the metal attitude of Dokken. The album became a cult classic but was out of print for years, adding to its mystique and making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
Legacy and Revival
From their inception to their disbandment in the mid-1990s, Aces Wild embodied the spirit of Canadian hard rock, delivering incendiary live performances and crafting two highly regarded studio releases. Though their time in the spotlight was brief, their music has endured as a hidden treasure within the hard rock and AOR genres.
In 2023, as part of Steelheart Memories Records’ "The Lost Melodic Jewels" Collectors Series, Race and Deal Us In were remastered from the original master tapes and released as a double-CD collection. This reissue included bonus tracks, such as the unreleased "Remind Me" and a piano version of "The End", as well as a richly detailed booklet with unseen photos, flyers, and a complete band history by hard rock journalist Rob Evans.
The reissue reminded fans and new listeners alike of the band's vintage hard rock sound, described as a blend of Harem Scarem’s technical precision, Honeymoon Suite’s melodic sophistication, and a metallic edge akin to Dokken.
Tim Thompson: lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Todd James: lead guitar, backing vocals
Aaron Bensette: bass, backing vocals
Darren Curtis: drums, backing vocals
Aces Wild may not have achieved mainstream stardom, but their music remains a testament to the rich hard rock tradition of the late '80s and early '90s. With their electrifying performances and well-crafted albums, they earned their place as one of Canada’s most underrated bands.
