Hillside proudly wear their influences on their sleeves. They combine their love of 90’s alt rock, cool 1960’s-1990’s britpop, and throw in a dash of 70’s soul to create a sound entirely of their own. Heavy, aggressive guitar riffs mixed with catchy melodies and soulful vocals are just a few attributes that drive Hillside’s sound. They also incorporate their love of r&b, soul, and reggae/dub to the mix. It may seem impossible to blend such disparate musical styles but Hillside manages to do so effortlessly. The emphasis of crafting good, memorable songs, performing live and to reach an audience is what matters most to Hillside. Joe Penaranda and Byron Mueller (guitars/bass/keyboards & back up vocals) are veterans of Calgary’s 1990’s alternative indie music scene. Both played in the popular Calgary band Difference Engine. Playing with notable acts such as: Fishbone, Pure, The Wailers, The Killjoys, 24-7 Spyz, Bad Manners, and 54-40. Joe’s songwriting, crunchy rock guitars help propel the band’s sound. Byron’s reggae inspired bass lines hold & lock down the groove. Jacob White, he’s the hard rocking, funky, lyrical drummer that drives the band forward. Amy Lee Owens is from the r&b/ pop scene. She's been the opening act for Ashanti, Blu Cantrell, 112 & Snoop Dogg. She released a 5 song EP in early 2010, with her single video release getting high rotation on Much Music. Her soulful, ethereal voice is what bridges all of Hillside’s musical influences; making their sound cohesive and identifiable to the listener. Ben is the newest member and the last piece of the puzzle, bringing his keyboard stylings. His music influences include Muse/ Cure.