The organizers of The Naked Ape would like to thank the musical performers listed below for donating their time and energy to such a worthwhile event. Musicians are regularly asked to sing and perform for a thousand different causes, so it is that much more generous that they have chosen to come to this party and share their talent with all of us. After reading their bios below, feel free to browse their websites and learn more about what makes these artists special. Chris Murphy Chris Murphy is a member of the Canadian rock band Sloan. Although born in Prince Edward Island, Murphy is commonly associated with Nova Scotia though like his fellow bandmates, he currently resides in Toronto. He helped form the band with Jay Ferguson and is currently the bassist and lead singer though on occasion switches to drums or guitar. Chris has a very dynamic stage presence, often getting the crowd excited through his witty chats with the crowd itself, or just goofing around on stage. Chris is more known as the "witty" one of the group, writing interesting and thoughtful songs with complex lyrics. Some of Chris' best songs can be seen in "Coax Me", "Underwhelmed", "Penpals", "Nothing Left to Make Me Want to Stay" and "I Am the Cancer". He has an infant son named Francisco, and he’s really cute. Tara MacLean Tara MacLean was raised in a small cabin the woods on Prince Edward Island, but moved to B.C. at 14. Struck by the magnificence of the old growth trees of the Temperate Rainforest, and devastated by the clear cuts, at 19 was compelled to join the fight to save Clayoquot Sound. Having loved to sing and write songs all her life, she found the power of singing protest songs on the blockades in unison with others who were passionate for a shared cause. Since then she has released 4 records - 2 solo records and 2 recordings with the band ‘Shaye’. She toured for the last 10 years, only taking “time off” to have her two beautiful daughters. Her third solo CD “Wake”, and her third baby are both due for release this spring. She now lives in Toronto. She is proud and excited to be one of the organizers of the Naked Ape Party! www.taramaclean.com www.shayemusic.com www.myspace.com/taramaclean Catherine MacLellan It is Catherine MacLellan's voice that strikes you first. Pure and haunting, it caresses softly, insinuating itself into your heart, and just won't let go. Then, the subtle strengths of her deeply confessional, powerfully poetic songs emerge, revealing hidden layers with every listen.A young Catherine MacLellan did not have to look far for inspiration and insight into the creative process. She's the daughter of Canadian music legend, singer/songwriter Gene MacLellan, the writer of such huge international 70s hit songs as "Snowbird" (the Anne Murray classic) and "Put Your Hand In The Hand" (Ocean). He died when Catherine had just entered her teens, but his influence was profound. "I grew up watching him write songs in the living room with pen and paper or with a guitar on his lap. That was what I thought you were supposed to do, and eventually I started doing it. She has certainly been embraced by the Atlantic Canadian audience, as shown by the two 2005 PEI Music Awards for Dark Dream Midnight and the four 2006 Awards for Church Bell Blues, as well as, multiple East Coast Music award nominations in 2006 and 2007 for those same albums. MacLellan is highly supportive of her regional peers. "There's a community of singer/songwriters here all running in the same circles, and it's nice to feel we're colleagues and friends." In turn, she has earned the deep respect of her fellow songsmiths. www.catherinemaclellan.com Njacko Backo Njacko Backo is a multi-talented artist; he is a musician, composer, dancer, choreographer, author, educator, workshop facilitator, and an energetic and dynamic entertainer. He is also a natural mystic, with a deep spiritual sense, refreshing approach to life, with a wealth of international musical experience and more than a touch of grassroots wisdom. Njacko was born in Cameroon and raised in the hills of a small village called Bazou, which means "the walkers." Musically and spiritually Njacko draws on the lessons he learned in Africa from his family, mentors and village life. Njacko began playing percussion and making instruments at age three. He descends from a family with strong musical traditions. Njacko left home at the age of 17 years to start his journey to several African countries to further his musical knowledge with African Master Musicians of many different cultures and traditions. At the age of 21, Njacko found himself in Europe working as a dancer, choreographer and percussionist. He moved to Canada in 1989. He has toured, taught, and drummed and danced his way through life bring his wonderful energy and vitality to all he does. He has played on countless recordings and soundtracks and has won numerous awards. We are so honoured that Njacko and friends will be closing out the night for us at the Naked Ape Party with movement and spirit! www.NjackoBacko.com www.MySpace.com/NjackoBacko www.MySpace.com/ToumkakDrummers Tony Pantages Award winning commercial and video director Tony Pantages will be providing a backdrop of stunning images on screen throughout the evening. Copyright © The Naked Ape Party 2007-2008