Based in Vancouver, this trio features Lesley Branton (vocals), Jason De Couto (piano) and Alvin Brendan (guitar). Influenced by an array of artists and genres, this trio is passionate about sharing their love of music. Having recently met via Vancouver’s vibrant music scene, these musicians have melded their talents, and together have produced a unique and uplifting sound.

Lesley is a versatile vocalist, who grew up listening to artists including Carole King, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt and Joni Mitchell. Also inspired by the Peggy Lee records her parents would play, and the timeless voice of Ella Fitzgerald, Les set out to follow her dream of becoming a professional singer.

Alvin is one of Vancouver’s most sought-after guitarists, celebrated for his dynamic performances and versatility both live and in the studio. Notable artists Brendan has collaborated with include Katie Tupper (Juno Award Nominated), Tiny Habits, Ayla Tesler-Mabé, and Mikey Jose, among many others. Jason de Couto is one of the most in-demand keyboardists in town, performing with such acts as Meridian, Rain City 6, Side One, and the Steely Dan tribute band Steelin’ In the Years.

The Lesley Branton Trio plays a variety of jazz, pop, and blues tunes which are as diverse as their audiences.

The Dog Ears is composed of four experienced, Vancouver-based musicians with a wide range of musical backgrounds and influences.

Les Toth: GUITAR
Les has had a life-long passion for music, starting to play guitar in his teens. He studied jazz at Capilano College and over three decades was the music director at West Van Secondary School. He’s played countless gigs in a variety of genres.

KEN LEEDHAM: DRUMS
Ken has been playing drums and percussion for over 45 yrs with a wide variety of projects from pop, rock, Latin and now bringing his rudiments and passion to the Jazz/Blues genre with The Dog Ears.

BOB WALKER : SAX
Bob claims to be from the ‘outskirts of Motown’ (actually, southwestern Ontario). Listening to all those Motown hits while growing up installed a love for blues, jazz, and soul. He is happy to bring his past experience playing with jazz, blues, R & B, and soul bands to The Dog Ears.

GLENN ROWLEY: BASS
If music be the food of love… Ever since Glenn first viewed the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show he knew this was what he wanted to do. He took up guitar at an early age and switched to bass to play rock and roll. How many years and musical genres later playing bass in the Dog Ears is musically rewarding as well as so much fun.

The band plays a mixture of Jazz Standards, Swing, R & B and Blues.