A Kelowna band has launched a Kickstarter campaign to complete their second full-length studio album. 

Under the Rocks, a bluegrass quartet, is hoping to raise $25,400 before they head into the studio on June 23 to begin recording 12 brand-new original songs. 

“To be forthright, our funding goal is the bare minimum that we need to be able to do what we are planning,” the band explains on the Kickstarter page. 

“If the campaign is unsuccessful, the production may halt after we are done recording.”

Under the Rocks recorded their first album, I Am Ready, right before the global lockdowns. 

Because they were paying for that project with their earnings from performing, they could not afford to finish it without support from friends and family. 

It took over a year to finish the album, and chances to perform were still few and far between upon its release in 2021. 

“Fast forward another year and our bassist Drew needed to quit the band, Chris and his wife had a baby, Jordan lost his job, and Chloe and Jordan started a relationship,” the band continues.

“At points, it really seemed like the band was bound to break up.”

Under the Rocks has since enlisted Nils Loewen to play bass.

Chris Baxter plays the banjo and mandolin, Jordan Klassen plays the guitar, and Chloe Davidson plays the fiddle. All three musicians also contribute on vocals. 

“Throughout all the trials, joys and changes, we've written a fresh batch of heartfelt songs,” the quartet says. 

“The album leans into our different musical sensibilities and backgrounds, and it displays our earnest energy and approach to writing contemporary bluegrass music that combines substance with flair.”

Under the Rocks will reunite with producer Andrew Collins later this month to spend seven full days in the studio for the upcoming album, Honest Try. 

The band will also be working with some of Canada’s best musicians, sound engineers and visual artists. 

“This is no small endeavour, and we need your help to make it happen to its full potential,” the musicians add. 

“We are beyond grateful for our communities and the support we feel already.”

All funds raised will go towards the studio rental, recording, producing, mixing, mastering and manufacturing. Any funding received after the campaign goal is met will go towards promotion. 

“Your help really will make all the difference in allowing us to make this a high quality project from start to finish,” the band says. 

“Thank you endlessly for whatever degree you participate in this campaign.”

Anyone interested in backing the project can do so here.