Ten Kens Q&A

by Denise Dias
I have to admit that the first time I heard the Ten Kens play live, I wasn’t expecting much. I went along to one of their very first shows in Toronto and remember being completely impressed with this handsome foursome who apparently had no prior stage experience. I’ve seen them perform several times since then, and the sweet melodic intensity of their sound still haunts me for days after each show.   

Catch their next gig at the NXNE festival in June. Visit www.myspace.com/tenkens or www.fat-cat.co.uk for more information.  Their debut album will be available worldwide in September.  

Lead singer Dan Workman shares some of the band’s inspirations and experiences below. 

Which female artists have inspired you? 
First on the list would definitely be Kim Gordon of Sonic Youth.  Not only is Sonic Youth one of my all time favourite bands, but in a scene predominately dominated by men, Kim rocks out better than most and she's completely inspiring.  She's a brilliant song writer, an amazing performer and just about the coolest thing going.  Her influence is insurmountable and she continues to create and perform with the same intensity and innovation she did over 25 years ago.  Incredible. 
 
After Kim, I'd say the always standard Patti Smith...but currently I'd say PJ Harvey, Bjork and M.I.A.  I'm inspired by women that push creative boundaries.  I don't think music discriminates against gender - you either innovate or you don't - and these women are quite simply doing things that haven't been done before. 
 
What are your favourite places in Toronto?   
Lee's Palace would be my first choice for sure. I love that venue. There's not a bad seat in the house and the sound is awesome.  I've seen my favourite bands play there.  There's just a vibe in that place that you can't describe.  I really feel I'm amongst my own when I'm there...those with a genuine love of live music. 
 
I can loiter in Rotate This and Soundscapes for hours. There's also a small friendly pub on Roncesvalles called The Local, where I've spent a very unhealthy amount of time...and I can't say I'm a stranger at the Green Room either.  So basically, if it's a dark, somewhat dingy place, chances are you'll see me there. 
 
Do the Ten Kens have many female fans? 
I think so.  I mean, we do see a lot of women at our shows and although that doesn't necessarily mean they're fans, we'd certainly like to think that they are.  Our music, as intense as it can be at times, is still pretty diverse and accessible.  We're expecting to acquire fans of all ages, genders, sizes and colours.  Except puce.*

*(Puce – noun. A color varying from dark purplish brown to dark red) 
 
What do you look for in a girl? 
First, attractiveness. Come on, we all do! It's gotta be there a little bit. After that, intelligence, independence, and a sense of humour. Currently accepting resumes. 
 
Why is the band called Ten Kens? 
Ugh. We really goofed.  We should have anticipated that question would be asked many times.  The story behind the band name is really lame. We needed a name and it just sort of appeared.  We’ll be inventing a more interesting story very soon and we'll be happy to give it to you once we do. 

Where do you see the band in 5 years? 
Celebrating the fifth year anniversary of you asking me that question. 
 
Do you get nervous when you perform?   
I did in the beginning. I think it was a pretty natural reaction. I had no prior stage experience…none of us did.  But the high carries you through and the more you play the more natural it becomes.   
 
Do you guys have any rituals / routines before a show? 
We do.  After sound check we have dinner, drinks and band talk.  Everytime. 
 
What has been your favourite moment since forming the band? 
I'd have to say playing Canadian Music Week with No Age and Deerhoof. Having the opportunity to share a stage with bands we’re completely in awe of this early in the game was an amazing experience.  We were completely humbled and honoured to be in such talented company.  It was very, very cool. 

How do you want people to feel when they listen to your music? 
We just want people to feel something...anything.  If the music gets you energized, great.  If it puts you in a dark place, great.  If it makes you feel happy, great.  We put so many different emotions and moods into the songs that sometimes we're not even sure how it makes us feel.   

Describe your music in three words. 
Moody.  Diverse.  Loud.