Toyz

Websites:  No
Origin: Toronto, Ontario, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Formed in Toronto in the late 1980s, Toyz was a short-lived Canadian hard rock trio that fused melodic hooks with polished musicianship, leaving behind one sought-after release that has since become a cult favorite among collectors. The band was built around the talents of brothers Aldo Vaccaro (guitar, bass, keyboards) and Sam Vaccaro (drums), who were later joined by powerhouse vocalist Phil Naro, known at the time for his work with Billy Sheehan's band, Chain Reaction, and Talas.

In 1989, Toyz entered the studio and recorded a self-titled five-song mini-LP, issued on the independent Amapro Productions label. The album featured tracks like Shot Down, Every Inch of the Way, Dancin' Dancin', Perfect Timing, and Light Years, blending hard rock drive with melodic AOR sensibilities. Aldo Vaccaro’s versatile guitar work anchored the band’s sound, while Naro’s soaring vocals added a polished, radio-ready edge.

Though the record never broke into the mainstream, its strong songwriting, tight performances, and limited pressing quickly made it a rare prize for fans of Canadian melodic rock. The EP stands today as a hidden gem from Toronto’s late 1980s hard rock scene.

Behind the scenes, the band handled much of the production themselves. The EP was produced and co-engineered by Sam Vaccaro and Toyz, with mixing and engineering by Andy Glembus at Triton Studio. All five tracks were co-written by Phil Naro, Aldo Vaccaro, and Sam Vaccaro.

After Toyz disbanded, each member remained active in music. Phil Naro went on to an expansive international career, recording and touring with artists such as Lee Aaron, Peter Criss, Lou Gramm, and projects like Mark St. John Project, Gowan, Backhand, 24K, Corvus Stone, DDrive, and Druckfarben. The Vaccaro brothers established their own recording studio, producing and mentoring emerging artists. Aldo continued to teach guitar and release instructional videos, while both brothers later performed together in the symphonic rock project Symphonic Spirit, with Sam also playing alongside guitarist Ron Pine in Mr. Finch.

Though Toyz left behind just one official release, its precision-crafted sound and the later accomplishments of its members have earned the band a lasting place in Canada’s independent rock history.
-Robert Williston

Aldo Vaccaro: guitar, bass, keyboards
Phil Naro: vocals and all background vocals
Sam Vaccaro: drums

Produced and co-engineered by Sam Vaccaro and Toyz
Mixed and engineered by Andy Glembus