ABOUT THE LIONYLS
The Lionyls are a five-piece Rock & Soul outfit based in Ottawa, Canada with an unmistakable sound and ability to make their audiences move. Inspired by rhythm & blues, funk, soul, and rock & roll traditions, they have crafted an organic sound that is both timeless and current, raw and refined.
In over 10 years together, The Lionyls have released 2 full-length studio albums with a third on the horizon in 2025. A constant dedication to honing their craft has led them to perform at many landmark festivals and events including Ottawa Bluesfest, NXNE, CityFolk, Canadian Music Week, The Grey Cup Festival, Ottawa Jazz Festival, The National Arts Centre and many more.
Their music truly comes to life in live performance, where their skillful musicianship, charismatic presence, and raw energy invite the audience to join them deep in the groove.
While The Lionyls have had the opportunity to grace some of Canada’s biggest stages as an opening act, they also have extensive experience on the independent Canadian circuit playing iconic grassroots venues such as The Horseshoe Tavern, The Rainbow, Barrymore's Music Hall, The Seahorse Tavern and others across the country.
They are also an integral part of the Ottawa music community, showcasing their eclectic sound at countless events within the city both as a headlining act and backing band. Most recenlty they were key contributors at the Ottawa Capital Music Awards, Ottawa Black Creatives Hub Showcase, Amashowza Live, Vanier BIA Showcase, Hors Pairs Presents: Debranché (NAC Edition), Ottawa Christmas Market, CBC Radio’s Project Give and the list goes on.
ROBBIE RIGG • GUITAR
Robbie was immersed in the sounds of his father’s blues, rock and R&B records from an early age. After discovering the music of Jimi Hendrix, he decided to pick up the guitar. Other influences include Santana, Earth, Wind & Fire, Leo Nocentelli, Eddie Hazel and the genres of jazz, soul, funk, afrobeat, pop, metal and reggae. The combination of these influences makes for an exciting fusion and inimitable style.
ALEX JEE • BASS
Alex fell in love with the bass after watching Rush perform at the Molson Canadian Rocks for Toronto benefit concert. While it was Geddy Lee who inspired him to pick up the instrument, Alex is also inspired by artists such as Flea, Robert DeLeo, Phil Lynot, Jaco Pastorius, Marcus Miller and James Jamerson. A blend of many styles such as the grunge, prog rock, funk, soul, and jazz have influenced Alex’s melodic and rhythmic bass playing technique.
ROARY THUNDERBIRD • VOCALS
The son of two eclectic music lovers, Roary’s childhood was underscored with a rich collection of music: from classic rock and reggae, to hip hop, soul, R&B and everything in between. Over time, this instilled in Roary a genuine love for all music and a fascination with great songwriting. He was inspired by Stevie Wonder, Prince, D’Angelo among countless others to develop his voice and write songs of his own.
ADRIAN TROTMAN • DRUMS
Adrian spent his childhood shadowing some of the best Pentecostal musicians in Canada. His affinity for the drums was evident early on, quickly learning the instrument and instinctively applying his technique across multiple genres. By the time he was 20, he had established himself as an in-demand session drummer in Ottawa and beyond. His inspirations include Dennis Chambers, Clyde Stublefield and more.
NATHANIEL CLARKE • KEYS
Nathaniel Clarke is a skilled pianist and keyboardist with a background in advanced music theory from The Royal Conservatory of Music. He began his career in 2013, performing with artists such as Yao, Maurice Moore, Wolanyo Akakpo and Black Denim on some of Canada's premier stages including Montreal International Jazz Festival, Ottawa Bluesfest, Festival Franco and Festival de la Saint-Jean.