Artist Biography

Hayden is a Toronto musician who's been releasing records for a decade now. His international debut 'Everything I Long For' (Hardwood/Geffen) was released in 1996 after initial attention in Canada following two cassettes and several 7-inch singles. The album's home- recorded songs appealed to critics and fans alike, making many year-end top ten lists. Following tours of the U.S, Europe and Japan, Hayden released 'The Closer I Get' (Geffen) in 1998... a more band-oriented affair and a sonic and lyrical progression. Following over a year of touring and promotion, Hayden closed the book on chapter one of his music career. It wasn't until 2001 that he returned with the wonderful 'Skyscraper National Park' (Hardwood/Universal). Recorded at his home studio, it is filled with a warmth and beauty that was felt by music lovers everywhere. Here's a sample of some of the praise the album received:

THE ONION/NEW YORK

'Hayden draws from the traditions of eccentric folk-rock, but his ragged, harrowing concoction of acoustic gentility and electric anarchy stands as a genre all its own.'

MOJO - GOLD SEAL OF APPROVAL ('a release of exceptional quality')

'The album's unequivocal genius slaps you upside the head. Everything about this record - musicianship, songcraft, lyrics - is superior.'

During the final stages of touring 'Skyscraper...', Hayden recorded an intimate hometown performance, which was released as a double record in 2002. 'Live at Convocation Hall' reveals Hayden at his purest, with just his voice, guitar and harmonica:

ALTERNATIVE PRESS

'A little bit country, a little bit rock 'n' roll, Hayden crafts each song like a musical photograph---scenic, colourful and keenly observant'.

'Elk - Lake Serenade', released in the spring of '04, continued where 'Skyscraper National Park' left off. Sparse fingerpicked ballads mix with full band rock songs to create a very full and rewarding listening experience. Pianos, pedal steel, and strings accent Hayden's guitar and piano playing, while his stories of life and loss shine through:

HARP

'...an artist of remarkable depth and potential, becoming someone who inspires comparison rather than invites it'.

TIME OUT/LONDON

'Lovely, cracked, off-key vocals, winsome melodies and brilliant lyrics'.

Hayden has just finished putting the final touches on his new album, In Field and Town, scheduled for Canadian release Jan. 15th/08. On November 12th, Hayden began a 12-country European tour in Belgium as special guest of The National. His first Canadian tour in over 3 years begins Jan. 16th, covering the country from St. John's, Nfld. to Victoria, B.C.