Moist Moist

Moist: A Journey of Sonic Serenity and Challenges

In the annals of Canadian alternative rock, the name Moist stands out as a band that captivated audiences with their ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics. Their signature anthem, "Alive," became a timeless classic, resonating with both critics and fans alike.

Early Beginnings and Breakthrough

Moist emerged from Vancouver in 1994, initially composed of Mark Makoway (vocals), David Usher (guitar and vocals), Kevin Young (guitar), Jeff Pearce (bass), and Paul Wilcox (drums). Their debut album, "Silver," released in 1996, propelled the band to stardom. The album's lead single, "Push," soared to the top of the charts, cementing Moist's status as a formidable force in the music industry.

The Power of "Alive"

However, it was their sophomore album, "Creature," that truly defined Moist's legacy. The album's centerpiece, "Alive," became an instant hit, capturing the essence of the band's sound—a blend of haunting melodies, ethereal guitars, and Makoway's introspective vocals. The song's universal message of redemption and hope resonated with listeners, propelling it to the summit of the charts.

Internal Struggles and Line-Up Changes

Despite their commercial success, Moist faced challenges within their ranks. Usher's growing ambitions and creative differences with Makoway led to his departure in 1999. The band continued with a rotating cast of guitarists, but the loss of Usher cast a shadow over Moist's future.

Musical Evolution and Comeback

Undeterred, Moist pressed on, releasing their third album, "Mercedes 5 and Dime," in 2000. The album marked a departure from their signature sound, embracing a more experimental and electronic direction. While it received mixed reviews, it showcased the band's musical versatility.

After a hiatus, Moist reunited in 2010 with a revamped line-up. Makoway and Wilcox remained as the core members, joined by Kyle Gibson (guitar), Josh Dun (bass), and Mike McLeod (keyboards). They released their fourth album, "Glory Under Different Light," in 2014, which showcased a return to their earlier, more melodic sound.

Discography

* Silver (1996)
* Creature (1998)
* Mercedes 5 and Dime (2000)
* Glory Under Different Light (2014)

Controversies and Legacy

Throughout their career, Moist courted controversy over Usher's alleged substance abuse and erratic behavior. However, their music has transcended these challenges, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian and international audiences. "Alive" continues to be a timeless anthem, encapsulating the band's essence and inspiring generations of listeners with its message of hope and redemption.

Current Members

* Mark Makoway (vocals)
* Paul Wilcox (drums)
* Kyle Gibson (guitar)
* Josh Dun (bass)
* Mike McLeod (keyboards)