Leland Whitty

Whitty's musical journey began at Humber College's jazz program, where he met the members of BADBADNOTGOOD in 2010. His innate talent on the saxophone and guitar quickly made him an integral part of the band.

Apart from his role in BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitty has collaborated with numerous artists, including Kali Uchis, Tesseract, Eschaton, and Charlotte Wilson. He's worked alongside acclaimed musicians like Kendrick Lamar, Ghostface Killah, and Snoop Dogg, showcasing his versatility.

In the realm of film, Whitty's creativity shines through. He contributed significantly to the film industry, crafting compelling scores and soundtracks. His notable work includes the soundtrack for "Disappearance at Clifton Hill" in collaboration with Alexander Sowinski.

Teaming up with former bandmate Matthew Tavares, Whitty created the mesmerizing album "Visions" for Mr. Bongo. This psychedelic spiritual jazz venture highlighted his ability to blend genres seamlessly.

Leland Whitty stands as a musical wizard from Canada, shaping the contemporary music landscape with his innovative compositions and diverse collaborations. His journey continues to inspire music enthusiasts worldwide.

Discover the musical odyssey of Leland Whitty, the multifaceted artist hailing from Canada. Dive into his solo project, "Anyhow," a masterpiece that transcends genres and captures the essence of musical exploration.

Known for his role in BADBADNOTGOOD, Whitty's solo project "Anyhow" marks a departure from his collaborative ventures. In 2020, he embarked on a solo journey, weaving intricate musical tales that challenge conventions.

After working on several film scores, Whitty was inspired to create a record with a narrative focus. "Anyhow" emerged from ephemeral voice notes and short loops, evolving into full-fledged compositions. Collaborating with fellow musicians, including Alexander Sowinski and Chester Hansen, Whitty orchestrated a sonic adventure.

In "Anyhow," Whitty showcases his prowess on various instruments, including guitar, flute, saxophone, and synth. Each track is a testament to his musical acumen, combining elements of jazz, psychedelic rock, and dream pop. The album's brevity belies its depth, inviting listeners into a world of mesmerizing soundscapes.

"Silver Rain" and "Glass Moon" exemplify Whitty's musical ingenuity. The former captivates with its cosmic discordance, while the latter races through intricate chord changes, building a musical crescendo that defies expectations.

"Anyhow" might be succinct, clocking in at just 30 minutes, but its impact is monumental. It's a sonic marvel that lingers in the listener's mind, akin to a vivid short film leaving a lasting impression. Whitty's directorial approach and musical finesse shine brightly throughout the album.

On January 12, 2020, in Toronto, Matthew Tavares and Leland Whitty came together for an extraordinary improvised jam at Burdock. They were joined by bassist Julian Anderson-Bowes and drummer Matt Chalmers as part of the Burdock’s Piano Fest event. This captivating session transcended mere improvisation; it transformed into a performance of remarkable artistic depth. The chemistry between the musicians was magical, with Matt Chalmers and Julian Anderson-Bowes providing a solid foundation, allowing Tavares and Whitty the freedom to explore moments of darkness and light, intensity, and beauty.

After the session, an email from Matthew Tavares landed in the inbox of the Mr. Bongo label, describing the experience as incredible and likening it to a meticulously crafted studio album. The musical synchronicity among the quartet was evident, reflecting the tight friendship and musical bond between Tavares and Whitty. While the original plan was to tour with the resulting album, each night offering a unique improvised set, the pandemic disrupted these plans. "January 12th" captures a snapshot of the enchantment that fueled four incredible musicians at the peak of their artistry.

https://www.instagram.com/lelandwhitty

https://lelandwhitty.bandcamp.com/album/anyhow-2