Calgary’s Woodhawk returns after five years with a new album

Woodhawk, a Calgary-based band, recently released their third album, Love Finds A Way, amidst the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The band, consisting of Turner Midzain on vocals and guitar, Mike Badmington on bass and vocals, and Kevin Nelson on drums, found themselves facing uncertainty as the world shut down in March 2020, forcing them to cancel their ambitious tour plans.

After a period of reflection and uncertainty, the band members regrouped and began working on new material for their latest album. Love Finds A Way features nine hard-rock tracks that showcase the band’s resilience and determination to push through difficult times. From the powerful “No Place for Hate” to the bluesy metal of “Strangers Ever,” the album explores a range of themes inspired by the challenges of the pandemic.

Woodhawk’s journey as a band has been marked by perseverance and a refusal to be confined to a single genre. Originally associated with the Stoner-Rock scene, the band has always considered themselves a hard rock outfit with a unique sound that defies categorization. Midzain and Badmington, who have been friends since childhood, have evolved from their punk roots to embrace heavier music influenced by bands like Black Sabbath.

As they prepare to kick off a Canadian tour in support of Love Finds A Way, Woodhawk emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle on the road. Gone are the days of wild partying and excess; now the band focuses on staying physically and mentally fit to deliver high-energy performances night after night.

Woodhawk’s resilience and dedication to their craft shine through in their latest album, which serves as a testament to the band’s ability to overcome challenges and find a way forward. Catch them live at the Ship and Anchor on Wednesday at 8 p.m. and experience their hard-hitting sound for yourself.