The Beagle Ranch

Initially formed as a solo musical vehicle for frontman/songwriter Stephen Bandola, this Calgary, Alberta based band has evolved over the years to where it is now a fully functioning quartet. But let's take you back in time while introducing you to the members of the group. Bandola is formerly the bass player and co-frontman of early '90s college-radio favourites Citrus Park. With the Beagle Ranch, he set out to play and write melodic guitar-based music with a strong songwriting focus and an appreciation for the perfectly crafted 3-minute pop tune. Bandola's first quest for pop perfection manifested itself in the 2001 release "Starcrossed". Recorded at former Citrus Park bandmate Jeff Burns' recording studio, "Starcrossed" saw the Beagle melodic direction firmly in place. Shortly after the release of "Starcrossed", the Beagle ranks increased by one. Lead guitar/harmony vocalist Jeff Kushner formally joined Bandola. Also a Calgary music scene veteran, Kushner had most recently fronted his own group, "The Beauty Myth". The duo released the 6 track recording "Mr. Ordinary World" in 2005, and played around Calgary as an acoustic duo. 2006 saw the band add bassist Conan Daly to the lineup. A longtime friend of both Jeff and Steve, and former bassist with Celtic quintet "Scatter the Mud", Daly joined his fellow pop connoisseurs in their quest for pop perfection. While gigging frequently throughout 2007 & 2008, the Beagles still had time (with the aid of their drummer pal Josip Vulic) to record the 4 song "Christmas Time" E.P. The recording (again recorded at Burns studio) centered around Bandola's seasonal ode "It's Christmas Time". More recording and playing in 2009, (with help from their pal Miles Krowicki on drums) followed by an extended break in 2010 brings us almost up to speed. 2011 was a bountiful year for the band. They released their full length CD, "A Moment Away" to great reviews (ranked #21 by the Absolute Powerpop website (Florida) "Powerpop CDs of the year" - ahead of new releases by Sloan and Fountains of Wayne). They also welcomed drummer Dave Horrocks to the Beagle ranks. In addition to his extensive behind the board experience at Calgary's Sundae Sound, Dave is an accomplished percussionist, most notably keeping time alongside Daly in Scatter the Mud. 2020 sees the band on the verge of releasing a new recording. Stephen Bandola - vocals, acoustic guitar Jeff Kushner - electric guitar, vocals Conan Daly - bass, vocals Dave Horrocks - drums