Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Founder | Gregory Hoskins, John McCormick |
| Defunct | 1996 |
| Headquarters | Canada |
| Products | Music albums |
Gregory Hoskins and the Stickpeople was a Canadian group specializing in folk rock, active between 1985 and 1996. Their most notable track is the 1991 hit "Neighbourhood". The band's primary members consisted of lead vocalist and songwriter Gregory Hoskins, backing singer Lynn Simmons, keyboard player George Civello, and drummer Michael Spencer-Arscott, with various musicians contributing on saxophone and bass guitar throughout their tenure.
History
Hoskins, who began composing music at the age of 14, established the Stickpeople in the mid-1980s alongside saxophonist John McCormick. In 1990, they secured a contract with True North Records and signed with Bernie Finklestein Management.
Their first album, Moon Come Up, debuted in February 1991. The group embarked on national tours, serving as opening acts for performers such as the Indigo Girls, the Neville Brothers, and Sarah McLachlan. The follow-up album, Raids on the Unspeakable, was released in 1993; both albums were produced by Jonathan Goldsmith under True North Records. A total of five music videos were produced to promote these records, gaining frequent airplay on MuchMusic.
In both 1992 and 1994, the band supported Robert Morgan's solo theatrical production about Bob Dylan, titled Heart of Mine Tour, as the live musical ensemble. They also partnered artistically with Cheryl l'Hirondelle.
By 1996, Hoskins, Simmons, and Civello began independently working on a third album. Subsequently, Hoskins issued Surgery through his personal label in 1999.
Break-up
Following the release of Surgery, the band dissolved. Hoskins proceeded to pursue a solo career, launching King of Good Intentions in 2001. His solo discography expanded with albums such as The Beggar Heart (2007), Alone in the Mayor's House (2008), and Pleasure & Relief: A Live Concert Recording (2008). Collaborative projects include The Map of Above, The Map of Below (2013) with drummer Gary Craig and Nights of Grief & Mystery (2017) alongside Stephen Jenkinson. Additionally, Hoskins has contributed to ensembles like the Art of Time Ensemble and The Henrys, broadening his influence within folk and jazz circles.
Discography
- Moon Come Up (1991)
- Raids on the Unspeakable (1993)
- Surgery (1999)