Bucket Truck

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Origin: St. John's, Newfoundland - Halifax, Nova Scotia, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Bucket Truck was a dynamic six-piece heavy rock/alternative band hailing from St. John’s, Newfoundland, before relocating to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Formed in 1996, the group consisted of Matt Wells (lead vocals), Mike Rizkalla (guitar), Mike Stewart (guitar), Jud Haynes (bass), Mike Rowe (drums, percussion, backing vocals), and Chris Hanley (percussion, backing vocals). Known for their electrifying live performances, Bucket Truck integrated African, Latin, and Eastern percussion into their music, setting them apart in the Canadian rock scene.

The band quickly gained attention for their high-energy performances and original compositions. Their breakout moment came at the 1998 East Coast Music Awards (ECMAs) in Halifax, Nova Scotia. As one of four selected Newfoundland groups, Bucket Truck delivered what was described as “the most inspired performance of the weekend,” earning them extensive media coverage, including 15 interviews, two concerts, and the release of their debut album, Mr. Hero. The band’s showcase in Halifax set the stage for their ascent in the Canadian music industry.

Following their ECMAs success, Bucket Truck toured extensively, sharing stages with prominent Canadian acts like The Monoxides, The Tea Party, and Furnaceface. Their 1997 single, "Dynamo," became a regional radio hit, spending over three months in the OZFM Top Ten at Ten and peaking at number one on CHMR-FM on July 28, 1997. Notably, “Dynamo” achieved this success despite only being available on the band’s demo and never being commercially released.

The release of their debut CD, Mr. Hero, at the ECMAs further solidified the band’s reputation. This twelve-track album, recorded and produced in St. John’s, captured Bucket Truck’s raw energy and innovative sound. Supported by NewTel Communications, the album received praise from various publications and earned the band appearances on MuchEast (MuchMusic) and NTV. Later that year, the band filmed their first music video, funded by a VideoFact grant. Band members endured grueling 17-hour days during production, a testament to their dedication to their craft. The video’s release in late 1998 aimed to launch Mr. Hero nationally.

In September 1998, Bucket Truck joined the lineup for Summersault, a major concert series featuring acts like Our Lady Peace, Garbage, Sloan, I Mother Earth, and Moist. The band performed in St. John’s on September 3 and in New Brunswick on September 4, further elevating their profile. Their inclusion in Summersault came through proactive outreach to Our Lady Peace’s management, showcasing their ability to create opportunities.

In 2001, Bucket Truck released an album produced by Lloyd Hanson, a celebrated producer known for his versatility. Hanson regarded this project as one of the standout productions of his career, highlighting the band’s evolving sound and their ability to incorporate heavier, more experimental elements.

Their final album, Favour the Bull, released in 2006, marked a significant evolution in the band’s sound. Produced by Pelle Henricsson, Eskil Lövström, and Magnus Lindberg, the album featured guest vocals from Walter Schreifels and showcased a polished, dynamic quality. Tracks like "Textbook Propaganda," "The Cost," and "These Four Corners" demonstrated their ability to blend raw energy with refined production. Favour the Bull stands as a powerful conclusion to their recorded legacy.

Throughout their career, Bucket Truck was known for their relentless work ethic, recording, promoting, and performing wherever possible. Their dedication shone through in every song and show, earning them a reputation as one of Newfoundland’s most energetic and original bands. In 2022, after a 15-year hiatus, Bucket Truck reunited for a performance at the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent, opening for Alexisonfire and The Dirty Nil, much to the delight of their fans.

Beyond music, members of Bucket Truck have pursued diverse creative paths. Matt Wells transitioned into acting and television hosting, appearing in films such as "Crown and Anchor" alongside bandmate Mike Rowe, and hosting shows on MuchMusic and MTV. These ventures underscore the multifaceted talents of the band’s members and their lasting impact on the creative arts.

Bucket Truck's journey from local performances to national recognition exemplifies their commitment to their craft and their ability to adapt and evolve within the ever-changing music industry. Their legacy remains a testament to the vibrant spirit and creativity of the East Coast music scene.
-Robert Williston

Band Members
Matt Wells: lead vocals
Mike Rizkalla: guitar
Mike Stewart: guitar
Jud Haynes: bass
Mike Rowe: drums, percussion, backing vocals
Chris Hanley: percussion, backing vocals