EPX - The Elusive Project X

Combining elements of underground pop and electronica, EPX are quickly forging their own sound. Featuring multi-instrumentalists Brent Calkin and Flavio Monopoli, and singer Shaye Martirano, EPX's music demands a second listen. At times reminiscent of Garbage, Sonic Youth, and even British bands such as Lamb or Portishead, the band describes its music as "Trip Pop".

"I think people really like the electronica thing because of the rhythm" says Brent. He adds that the sounds are: "kind of like a painting, where you take all the colours and you admire them. But now, because of the Chemical Brothers and that hit with Noel Gallagher, I think people like the ambient aspects of electronica mixed with pop sensibilities - vocals and songs."

Brent is well known on the Vancouver music scene as an artist and producer. He happened upon drummer Flavio Monopoli when he produced Flavio's band, Velour 3. The two made a pact to collaborate on the project in 1997. Then came the search for the perfect vocalist. A veteran of theatre, Shaye Martirano had never been in a band before, but has ample experience. She comes from a musical family and grew up performing with her musician father; her sister is Nettwerk recording artist Tara MacLean. She cites Paul Simon, Bonnie Raitt, and Pink Floyd as musical influences. "At one point all I wanted to do was musical theatre," says Shaye, "but now I'm really into this. I'm in awe most of the time because I'm new at it. It's wacky and fun."

Brent and Flavio met Shaye at her sister Tara's show in Vancouver. "We started talking," says Flavio, "and we invited her down to the studio to give it a shot." In the studio, Brent handed Shaye some lyrics and sent her into the vocal booth. "When she started to sing," remembers Brent, "Flavio and I looked at each other and our jaws just dropped. It was amazing - the first take was a keeper!"

Shaye continues: "They give me the music, and I'll take it and feel it for a while, then write whatever lyrics come out." With their CD thus finished, the band looks forward to playing live. "It's going to be a show," says Brent, who has been known to play his guitar (and make music!) with a vacuum cleaner and a chainsaw. "We have no idea what Shaye is going to be like on stage. I think it's going to be wild!" In the meantime, the band has begun to market themselves via the internet. They have their own web page (www.elusiveprojectx.com) and tracks are available for downloading on www.mp3.com.

One of the CD tracks is a remake of the Velvet Underground's "I'll Be Your Mirror." Says Brent. "We actually had to send a copy of it to Lou Reed's publisher in New York. Seven months later we were told we could go ahead by Lou Reed, himself!" Interjects Flavio: "I like to think that is really high praise."

Ultimately, many bands are anchored by their vocalist and, in this respect, The Elusive Project X is in good hands. Shaye asks the group: "Did you guys hear about the long distance spitting contest? The winner and current holder of the world record is a girl. An eight year old girl. That's my main influence right there!" - Jay Deachman, Muzik Etc., November - December, 1999.