Vermillion Skye

Vermillion Skye is an art-rock group from Toronto, Canada. Compelling lyrics, progressive time signatures, and passionate performances distinguish this guitar and keyboard-oriented progressive rock quintet from their peers. Wide-ranging influences from the Alan Parson Project, Yes, Genesis, to The Cure, account for the band's tight, precise musical style that is on one-hand, technically complex, yet highly accessible to any listener. In 1984, vocalist Bill Reill formed the band Act 1 with writer/keyboardist Jeff Johnston and drummer Steve Gerlewych. Twelve years later, these three members added bassist Chris Robertson and formed Vermillion Skye. Their first studio project: "Random Kinetic Overtures" was soon completed. The album, reminiscent of 70's classic rock, featured guest appearances by Michael Hanson (Glass Tiger), Gary Breit, and Kevin Breit. The band's sophomore work: "The Dream Sequence" marked the beginning of Bill Reill's dual role of producer and lead singer. A concept album based on a night's dreams, it is laced with the intriguing chord changes and unusual time signatures that are signature Vermillion Skye. The CD boasts a diverse set of song styles. For example, the simple piano-stylings of Cruel Life, the straight-ahead rock-and-roll sounds of Nothing Wrong and the unique progressive African rhythms of Tanganyika. Just prior to starting their third CD, the band invited long-time friend of Vermillion Skye: Dave Brolley to join the band permanently as their lead-guitarist. In 2009, the band finished their rock-opera: "Industrial Poetry" which follows the music career of a tragic fictitious character. Produced once again by Bill Reill, the album is an ambitious undertaking that truly shows off the band's talent for engaging rock music done with refreshing variety. Prime examples include Almost Perfect, Who Can You Trust, Promise, and Clean And Sober. Anchored by a powerful bass and drum duo, propelled by arresting keyboards and guitar, the band's multiform style, on stage or recorded, is unmistakably true to the credo of classic rock.