Mussel Memory by Magnificent Octopus

Formed in Toronto Canada in 1993, Magnificent Octopus began as a conceptual apparatus for the collaboration of many musical friends.
With their first live performance at 'El Mocambo' in 1997, the lineup had solidified into the supergroup of Luke Mercier, Jeff Cardey, Conor Luney and James Switzer combining indie pop, with classical guitar and funky rhythms.

They played a significant role in Toronto's Indie Alternative Rock scene during the years leading up to Y2K, and their music drew inspiration from many strands. Perhaps it was the unknowing of what would happen at the turn of the millennium on multiple levels that fueled their prolificacy.

One can expect to hear elements of 70's television themes, as well as accents of 90's contemporaries such as Ween and Primus.
Other notable influences include the proggy musings of Frank Zappa, Gentle Giant, as well as a wide range of world music vibes.

For a quarter century, 'Boy on a Lobster' (1998) was their only official release, with the rest of the discography left in disarray. 'Pony Ride on the Moon' (2023) is a collection of previously unreleased material taken from studio sessions, rehearsals and live performances. With their latest 'Mussel Memory', this theme of lost episodes continues, with more on the way.


We hope you enjoy this bounty.

Formed in 1997 Members:
Luke Mercier, Jeff Cardey, Conor Luney, James Switzer.

Part of the Indie Alt-Rock scene during the years leading up to Y2K.

Expect to hear a 70's action TV vibe with echoes of Frank Zappa, Manu Dibango and The L.A. Express; whatever was fed into their young malleable kindergarten brains.

This release of Pony Ride on the Moon has come about 25 years after the fact.

lukemercierviolins.com