Trent Severn

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

Trent Severn: A Celebrated Folk Trio Rooted in Canadian Culture

Trent Severn was a Canadian folk trio composed of singer-songwriters Emm Gryner, Dayna Manning, and Lindsay Schindler (formerly Laura C. Bates), known for their rich harmonies, evocative storytelling, and deep connection to Canadian culture. The group was founded in 2011 and quickly became a staple of the Canadian folk scene, celebrated for their unique ability to capture the spirit of the country’s landscapes and history through song. Their self-titled debut album, released in November 2012 on Dead Daisy Records, earned critical acclaim and extensive airplay on CBC Radio.

Formation and Early Days
The idea for Trent Severn was born when Emm Gryner, an accomplished singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, approached her friend and fellow musician Dayna Manning with the concept of forming a folk band. Manning, known for her rich voice and intricate guitar work, welcomed the collaboration, and violinist Laura C. Bates—a childhood friend of Manning—soon joined the lineup.

The trio took their name from the Trent-Severn Waterway in Ontario, reflecting their strong ties to the province and its rich cultural history. From the beginning, the band’s approach was collaborative, with all members contributing vocals, songwriting, and instrumentals. They developed a distinctive sound featuring banjo, guitar, bass, violin, and stomp box percussion, creating a warm and rustic backdrop for their lyrical explorations of Canadian life.

Self-Titled Debut and Early Success
Trent Severn’s self-titled debut album, released in November 2012, was a polished yet deeply authentic collection of 10 tracks steeped in Canadiana. The recording process took fourteen months, with the band meticulously arranging and performing all the music, aside from a guest appearance by Joel Plaskett and some percussion by Dave Tolley. The album was praised for its blend of traditional folk with a modern edge, drawing comparisons to artists like Joni Mitchell and Gordon Lightfoot.

Reviewers highlighted the band’s intricate harmonies and heartfelt songwriting. Post City described the album as “a warmly nostalgic record padded with darkly pensive instrumentation… Trent Severn sing and play with the weight carried by old souls, but they can still throw in a wink with playful verses and jaunty songs.”

Touring and Notable Performances
The band’s live performances became just as beloved as their recordings, with their close-knit harmonies and stripped-down arrangements resonating with audiences across Canada. They were nominated for two Canadian Folk Music Awards in 2013 and embarked on numerous tours, playing everywhere from large festivals to intimate outdoor settings.

In 2013, Trent Severn became part of Canadian history when they received a phone call during a live concert from Commander Chris Hadfield aboard the International Space Station. Later that year, the band performed alongside Hadfield during his first Earthbound performance of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” on Canada Day. Their original, harmony-rich rendition of "O Canada" was also featured at the flag-raising ceremony on Parliament Hill in Ottawa that year.

Lineup Change and Continued Growth
In 2015, violinist Laura C. Bates left the band, and Lindsay Schindler stepped in, bringing her own vibrant energy and skill to the group. The trio continued to tour and release new music, maintaining their signature blend of lush harmonies and deep-rooted storytelling.

Legacy and Hiatus
On January 21, 2019, Trent Severn announced a hiatus, marking the end of an era for the much-loved folk trio. Though their time as a band was relatively short, their impact on the Canadian folk scene was profound. Known for their authenticity, their celebration of Canadian identity, and their impeccable musicianship, Trent Severn remains a beloved chapter in the country’s rich musical history.

Members
Emm Gryner – vocals, guitar, bass, stomp box (2011–2019)
Dayna Manning – vocals, guitar, banjo, floor percussion (2011–2019)
Lindsay Schindler – vocals, violin, fiddle (2015–2019)
Laura C. Bates – vocals, violin, fiddle, floor percussion (2011–2015)