Cameron Twyford is well known around Powell River for performing as Little Pharmer, and while he plans to continue his solo act, focusing more on a band of the same name is also on the agenda. Little Pharmer, the band, includes Twyford (vocals/guitar), Tom Dowding (bass) and Kyle Araki (drums).
How do you describe the genre of music you play?
Tricky question. I do tend to use “farm rock” as a pretty apt description. There are definitely elements of punk rock, hip-hop and jazz in there. I never tried to be any particular one of those genres, but just followed what felt fun and served the song. It changes all the time. A song will feel heavy metal one night and the other night could be totally hip-hop.
Is that why you love to perform live, because the song changes from night to night?
Totally. Performing is an opportunity for the songs to live and, therefore, evolve. Something will happen to a song performed live that will stick with it forever, like a little accident. It’s like, ‘Wow, that was just perfect,’ and it always needs to be there now.
How do you explain the theatricality in your live shows?
There are definitely characters who do come out in the songs a little bit. Not necessarily well-defined characters with this motivation or that motivation, but I find, even in introducing certain songs, this strange narrative comes out that is part of that song’s character. Little Pharmer has its own theatrical agenda, but it is not necessarily mine.
What is it about performing live?
I live for it. There is some kind of opening of the valve. When we play live, especially with the band, something just gets opened up and it just kind of flows through and is a wonderful experience. It’s invigorating and totally drains me and fills me up at the same time. The studio is fun, but for me music is about interacting with other people, whether it’s the musicians or the audience; it’s really an exchange of energy.
For more information, go to littlepharmer.com.
