Rob Moir - Photo by Victoria Fernandez-Gabica
While the transition from punk front-man to folk-alternative artist seemed somewhat surprising for some, Rob Moir has reassured us that very little has changed. Judging from his performance at The Boat on January 20, kicking off his seven-week North American tour to promote his album This Is The Lie, everything from Moir’s stage presence to his mode of travel has maintained its edge.
As former vocalist/guitarist of Toronto punk outfit Dead Letter Dept., Rob Moir is no stranger to the music scene. Following the band’s decision to diverge on separate paths, he decided to pursue his current solo project with the help of his new band The Great Lates. Although some adjustment was necessary, it seems as if the change was just a matter of time.
“I always wrote those songs,” said Moir. “Finally I had good enough songs to put out. The timing was right and I had a batch I could release.”
An extended trip to Europe this past year further solidified the decision. He describes the experience as one in which he learned about himself and what he wanted to do in the future.
“I had a bike, a tent, and rode around Europe by myself,” said Moir. Playing music in the street with fellow musicians he came across, he explains, “I realized I wanted to move beyond just a rock band.”
Regardless of how the shift into the folk genre took place, he confirms that the struggles still remain the same.
“It’s still the same challenge. It’s like, how can I get 40 people that see dudes all the time to just shut up?” he said. “If you can’t make them shut up, it’s your problem.”
But it’s a challenge he’s excited to take on. As he gets ready to embark on an ambitious 40 days on the road, Moir considers the rewards that will come of the journey.
“I love playing every night, having a new chance every night to get better,” he said.
The tour will undoubtedly be a learning experience for Moir. His first tour as a solo artist will take him coast to coast between Canada and the U.S. However, it’s not as typical as it sounds.
“We’re doing the tour via Greyhound and VIA Rail,” said Moir. “VIA has this thing where you can even play on the train.”
Excited to meet new people and make some friends along the way, he’s prepared for whatever adventures take place in the weeks to come.
“It’s cool cause there’s no doubt in my mind I’m going to have to hitchhike at some point,” he said with a giggle. “That will be the exciting part of touring.”
His enthusiasm about everything is honest and refreshing. While changing his sound it is clear Moir did not lose his ambition. Softer melodies and romantic ballads can still go along with the rock and roll mentality.
“I want to think there’s still a bit of an edge too,” he jokes.
