Bio

Est. 2007

Lake of the Axe was born 30 years ago in a secluded cabin by a lake in northern British Columbia, Canada. Since the late '90s, this band of best friends has been crafting a unique sound that melds the sincerity of country soul, the grit of ranch rock, and the energy of grass punk. 

30 years of friendship. 30 years of good times. 30 years of grief and sorrow. 30 years of change.  After 30 years of this complex life we live, their songs are reflections of emotions from everything coming through the complicated windshield of life. Mourning and celebration, addiction and sobriety, colonization and reconciliation, trauma and healing. All with a backdrop of barn dance, grasspunk rhythms that get the crowd dancing. 

Their recent album, "The Mend," is an honest exploration of these themes. The hard-hitting single "Sinner" delves into the depths of multigenerational trauma, while the country ballad "Salvation" charts a heartfelt journey through addiction. "Please Go Easy" offers a sobering look at the sacrifices made during the westward expansion of colonizing train routes, and "Livestock and Lumber" is a celebration of the rough beauty and history of their hometown in British Columbia. "The Flood and the Fire" is a future look down on a burning planet with a that ends with "What will I know I would do different, if I had this world again?"

After reuniting in 2024 in another cabin in the woods to sharpen up their set a summer shows, the band found themselves unexpectedly filled with new songs and inspiration, leading to the creation of another new full-length album, set for release this winter. This album promises more heartfelt lyrics, vocal harmony, and a new mix of old country beats, piano and shining steel guitar.

Lake of the Axe are:

• Dave MacLeod- Lead Vocals and Guitar: Dave's soulful songwriting and raw guitar sound are a band staple.
• JR Olson - Lead Vocals and Bass: JR's powerful vocals, thoughtful lyrics and driving bass lines add depth and energy, grounding the band's dynamic style.
• Mitch Bennett - Electric Guitar, Steel Guitar, Vocals: Mitch's versatility on electric and steel guitar, along with his vocal harmonies, brings rich, layered textures.
• Bart Muhic - Drums: Bart's energetic drumming and punk inspired charisma set the heartbeat of the band, infusing each song with unmistakable energy. 
• Andy Krenz - Keys, Vocals, Banjo Mandolin: Andy's skills on the keys and strings paired with his vocal contributions, create a melodic and harmonic soul that elevates the band's sound.

Related Projects:

• Country Sedan - A dive into classic country sounds with modern storytelling.
• 97 South - Merging rock and country elements for a gritty, authentic sound.
• Ratlist - Bart's punk-infused rock with a hardcore edge.
• Andy Krenz and the Loyal Yokefellow - Andy's solo project, blending traditional and contemporary styles.