We Outspoken touring Europe for the second time

September 3, 2013 · 0 Comments

By Mark Pavilons

Longevity and persistence have served local King musicians well.
We Outspoken, led by Nobleton brothers Anthony and Alex Mascarin, are in Europe for a whirlwind, 18-day tour, visiting nine countries.
It’s their second tour by invitation and the group expects another warm reception by European fans – the legions continue to grow and embrace this Canadian export.
Spain and Poland have been added to the tour schedule this year and the group will perform 13 shows.
Last year’s tour was a “huge success” and an “amazing first exposure” to a totally different fan base, Anthony explained.
From London to Berlin, We Outspoken connected with different bands and fans hungry for their North American sound.
This year, the band is performing through Sept. 15, from Paris and Barcelona to Zurich and Prague.
Mascarin noted as a singer, he found it amazing that fans in Europe were singing his lyrics with him. Last year’s tour flew by and when the group returned to Canada, things slowed, allowing them to concentrate on writing and compiling some new music.
Mascarin said they released New Heights, a 5-song CD July 24 to a great reception. He calls it a bit of a “transition” with their alternative rock flavour getting an injection of maturity. As the group’s primary songwriter, he said the material is a “taste of what’s to come” from this group.
While there’s an air of a different style to New Heights, fans won’t be disappointed. The CD came together quickly, thanks to the collaborative efforts of group members, as well as Mushroom Media.
The songs are reflective in nature, and comment on societal issues. They’re more personal, too.
The European fans seem to appreciate all genres of music and are particularly fond of North American visitors like We Outspoken.
The tour is primarily about exposure for the band and momentum is picking up. One of the group’s mentors, producer and songwriter Jim Vallance (Bryan Adams, KISS, Aerosmith, Tina Turner, Joe Cocker, Ozzy Osbourne), said it’s all about the songs, timing and longevity.
The tours are great learning experiences, as the band does all of its own booking, management, etc. They keep up with social media and now have a redesigned website. While music downloads are popular today, Mascarin noted nothing beats a physical CD to hand out at concerts while on tour.
We Outspoken is a hands-on, do-it-themselves group. Mascarin said they rely on their talent, drive and survival instinct.
They also explore every opportunity that presents itself. Mascarin said they were fortunate to have songs featured in the video game Downhill Extreme. They also receive air time on SiriusXM Radio.
“It’s important to have your songs working for you,” he observed.
After conquering Europe, We Outspoken is looking at other venues. Mascarin noted Brazil seems to be hungry for North American music so South America may be on their wish list.
The current tour schedule is hectic and fast-paced, but the band now knows what to expect this time out.
Their Facebook page is inundated with “likes” after each European venue and that gives them the enthusiasm to give the fans what they expect.
Mascarin said while they’re not yet a household name, their excitement continues to grow. It’s their passion and the group is harnessing their success.
“Music chooses you,” he observed.
Stay tuned. As We Outspoken continues to evolve and draw attention, you’ll be hearing more about them.
This made-in-King export is a commodity well worth listening to.
For more, visit www.weoutspoken.com.