www.blackpowdertoys.com

Black Powder Toys (also known as BPT) is a 5-piece modern rock band that formed in North Vancouver, BC, Canada in 2006. Founded by vocalist Clayton Blancard and keyboardist Pete Ryznar, the band additionally consists of Tom Lawreszuk on guitar, Matt Pavan on percussion and Tom Gourlie on bass. Their independent debut album, Made in China, was recently released in May 2011.

The Early Years
Charismatic front man Clayton Blancard and keyboardist Pete Ryznar teamed up over a decade ago in an old, run-down warehouse on the North Shore waterfront. Their early projects, Roscoe P Coltrane and Idle Urge, solidified a musical partnership that sparked the interest of North Shore producer Paul Baker, of Bakerstreet Studios. Paul, known for his work with Chris Isaak, Paul Hyde (The Payolas), and Chilliwack, took the pair under his wing to record their first demo. Within months, It's You was being played on rock station Wolf FM 106.9 in Nanaimo. A steady stream of Island and Vancouver shows followed, with radio interviews on the Wolf, appearances on Urban Rush, and consecutive spotlight shows at Vancouver's New Music West.

Plagued by multiple band-member changes, the pair continued to forge ahead. Armed with a growing catalogue of original songs, they set out to recruit new members who shared a similar passion for the music. After their introduction to guitarist Tom Lawreszuk (Fear Zero, Seven Second Chase, Winston) they knew they had their guy. Tom took the songs to the next level with his inspiring hooks and melodic style. Drummer Matt Pavan paired with bass player Don Binns (Sons of Freedom, Econoline Crush) formed an unstoppable rhythm section that completed the band. Black Powder Toys was born.

The Album
Upon hearing the 5-piece perform live, Paul invited the boys back to the studio to record their debut album. The rhythm tracks were complete when the band received a call from Paul shortly after Christmas 2008 - he had been diagnosed with throat cancer. Devastated by the news, the band continued to play, performing six 2010 Winter Olympics shows, including the Plaza of Nations and the Olympic Torch Relay. Paul's health took precedence - the band put the CD on hold to allow Paul to focus on his battle with cancer. In Sept 2010, Paul passed away. A benefit concert followed with Black Powder Toys playing alongside Colin James, the Odds, Chilliwack, Shari Ulrich, and Paul Hyde.

Black Powder Toys' debut album, Made in China, was completed by Paul's successor, producer Dave Meszaros, in April 2011. It is a tribute to producer extraordinaire Paul Baker and all those we have lost to cancer. Featured guest vocalists include Paul Hyde, Megan Metcalfe, and Dave Steele (Motley Crue, the Cult). The CD continues to win the band new fans with its edgy melodies, catchy choruses and lyrics that speak to the struggles and obstacles that characterize their day-to-day lives.
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Black Powder Toys are currently sourcing out studios for a follow-up CD. The group has a surplus of new songs ready for preproduction. Expect a new album out in early 2012.

The word is out. BPT is ready to rock the Canadian music scene. So get off the couch and check out one of their smoldering live sets at a music venue near you!