Featured Artist: Darren Flower from Mississauga
Wayward Saints, a 5-piece band hailing from Mississauga, is all about classic rock authenticity. Founded by guitarist Darren Flower, the band’s journey began with Stone River and has now evolved to take on international stages, including a recent tour in Spain. Flower shared his thoughts on staying devoted to the craft and the intricate process behind their music.
Flower’s musical journey started at age 12 when he penned his first song after mastering a power chord. Reflecting on that time, he acknowledges the blend of excitement and high standards that fuel his songwriting process today. Despite his critical eye, Flower finds solace in the band’s collective exploration of new material, making each session an exciting endeavor.
One of the band’s defining elements is the synergy between Flower and fellow guitarist Justin Bennett. Their distinctive guitar-playing styles mesh seamlessly, particularly in crafting intricate “twin-lead” segments. While honing these dual guitar parts can be challenging, the duo’s complementary approach and dedication to rehearsal help create mesmerizing musical interludes.
The band’s connection to Spain dates back to Flower’s Stone River days. Returning to familiar venues with Wayward Saints, Flower experienced a heartwarming reunion with fans who embraced the new music. Having established deep ties to Spain through past tours and radio shows, Flower’s recent visit was marked by nostalgic encounters with old friends and fans sporting Stone River memorabilia.
Discussing the evolution of their tracks, Flower revealed how ‘Pay No Mind’ underwent a surprising transformation. Initially crafted as an introductory riff, the band’s collaborative decision to shift it to a verse injected fresh energy into the song. Despite initial skepticism, the band’s seamless adaptation reinforced Flower’s trust in their collective creativity.
‘Got To Give In’, another standout track, showcases the band’s infectious energy and musical ingenuity. Born out of a spontaneous jam session, this song’s genesis stemmed from bassist Bil Bertram’s impromptu guitar noodling that caught Flower’s ear. Transforming the piece into a lively track, the band’s mutual effort in fleshing out the song solidified its status as a live performance favorite.
As the band delves back into the studio to craft new material, audiences can anticipate more of Wayward Saints’ signature blend of raw energy, evocative lyrics, and twin-guitar magic. Flower and the band remain committed to pushing their creative boundaries, promising an exhilarating musical journey for fans.