Jump to content

The Gandharvas

From Alfawiki
Adapted from the English Wikipedia article The Gandharvas, available under CC BY-SA 4.0Updated 30 November 2025
The Gandharvas
Company typeBand
IndustryMusic
Founded1989 in London, Ontario, Canada
Defunct2000
Headquarters
London, Ontario
,
Canada
ProductsMusic albums and singles

The Gandharvas were an alternative rock group from Canada, established in 1989 in London, Ontario.

History

Initially known as The Droogs (later The London Droogs), the ensemble released a self-titled EP in 1991. In 1993, they adopted the name The Gandharvas, drawing inspiration from the celestial musicians of Hindu mythology.

Following their local performances, the band secured a deal with Watch Music in November 1993. Their first album under the name The Gandharvas, A Soap Bubble and Inertia (1994), included the track "The First Day of Spring," which earned the CASBY Award for Song of the Year and was also shortlisted for MuchMusic's Video of the Year. The album debuted at No. 51 on Canadian charts in July 1994 and reached a peak position of No. 39.

Their sophomore effort, Kicking in the Water (1995), facilitated a signing with major label MCA Records. Released in 1997, Sold for a Smile featured singles such as "Downtime" and "Watching the Girl," with "Downtime" gaining notable rotation on MuchMusic. All three albums were distributed in Japan through Avex DD.

Despite achieving moderate commercial recognition, the band’s prominence diminished as 1990s alternative rock declined in mainstream appeal, culminating in their dissolution in 2000.

After disbanding, Beau Cook returned to Smoother, while lead singer Paul Jago pursued a career in geology before forming the duo SAID DOG alongside his wife in Arizona.

Band members

Final line-up
  • Paul Jago – vocals (1989–2000)
  • Jud Ruhl – guitar (1989–2000)
  • Brian Ward – guitar (1989–2000)
  • Beau Cook – bass, keyboards (1996–2000)
  • Tim McDonald – drums (1989–2000)

Former members

  • Rob Blanchette – bass (1989–1993)
  • Eric Howden – bass (1993–1996)

The Droogs

  • The Droogs – 1991

Gandharvas

External links