Title: From its suburban inception in 1999, Uncle Seth has never stopped performing its “exuberant and accomplished mix of pop, rock,
Author: Lisa Johnson
Last saved by: Jay Moonah
Company: Unsung Communications

From its inception in 1999, Uncle Seth hasn’t stopped performing its “exuberant and accomplished mix of pop, rock, acoustic folk, twisty grooves, tender ballads, and pretty melodies, topped off by…rousing vocals” (PIC Press). The band is composed of Tara Thompson (lead vocals), Moonah (bass/harmonica), and Chris Patheiger (drums/percussion).
Uncle Seth’s 2002 album Lame Suburban Poetry received rave reviews, finished third in the 2003 Songs Revealed Competition, and was heard on CBC Canada-wide. The 2005 EP Forgive & Forget, Volume One captures their distinctive sound with three live and three studio-produced tracks. Melodic songwriting, inspired lyrics, adventurous instrumentation, and lively vocals make this band a stand-out, which is why they were named Dose Magazine’s Artist of the Week in April 2005.

Uncle Seth has honed its live performance to “a show, as opposed to playing a list of songs”, and forging a relationship with the audience is key to Uncle Seth’s on-stage success.

But the changing music industry has inspired Uncle Seth to be innovative in its approach to recording. “MP3 devices have changed the way people listen to music,” explains Jay. So Uncle Seth recorded a brilliant, bouncy cover of Joni Mitchell’s “Both Sides Now” — available on iTunes and the band’s web site — and released it online. The single has garnered attention from podcasts and online shows, inspiring Uncle Seth to continue releasing both covers and originals in this format.

Uncle Seth’s considerable creative output, evolving stage show, growing audience, and new online method of delivering music signals an exciting and intriguing future for the band.

Tara Thompson’s powerful vocal delivery has been described as “a breath of fresh air” (Andy Creeggan of Barenaked Ladies and Brothers Creeggan). A classically trained trumpet player, Tara studied vocals in school and via private lessons, and sang with choirs and in musicals. 

Jay Moonah demonstrates “superb harmonica styling” (Independent Weekly), self-empowering lyrics, and boundless energy. Jay’s repertoire is massive: guitar, organ, harmonica, bass, accordion, harmonium, keyboard sitar, and melodica.

Chris Patheiger brings his extensive talent, education, and performance experience to the band. 
Chris attended Humber College for drum kit, but quickly became interested in Afro-Cuban percussion and hand-drumming.