BIO

Forged and led by the vision of singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lee Rose, Ace of Wands has become one of Toronto's most creative and captivating bands since forming in 2017. 

Evoking the art-rock of PJ Harvey, the orchestral-pop of Kate Bush, and the alt-rock fuzz of Nirvana — Ace of Wands is known for their explosive and charismatic live performances, astonishing musicianship, and gothic-rock aesthetics. Lead vocalist Lee Rose alternates between violin and guitar, while simultaneously playing synth-bass foot pedals, joined by Anna Mernieks on guitar and Jody Brumell on drums. Together, they create a fantastical and immersive world of yearning, dread, euphoria, and insight — defining the essence of Dream Rock. 

Ace of Wands played their first show in 2017, but the music had been simmering in Lee Rose’s mind for years before that. A classically trained violinist and having played in bands since she was sixteen, Rose started experimenting writing some new songs on her own in 2016. It was during a cross-Canada tour playing violin with Ron Hawkins and The Do Good Assassins, opening for Blue Rodeo, that Rose had a pivotal realization: she wanted to pursue her own musical vision seriously. "It was my first real tour, and it completely blew my mind," Rose recalls. "It made me realize this is exactly what I wanted to be doing." With the addition of collaborators Anna Mernieks and Jody Brumell, the final pieces of Ace of Wands came into place. Their chemistry elevated Rose’s music to new heights, infusing it with depth, grit, and an emotional catharsis that had been waiting to be fully realized.

Ace of Wands has released two full-length albums and an EP, with their 2023 sophomore LP Desiring released via Fortune Stellar Records. The album showcases their ever-evolving sound — with complex arrangements and deeply personal themes, exploring the light and dark aspects of desire and wanting. 

Ace of Wands has toured the USA and Canada extensively; opening for legendary acts such as The Chameleons (UK), The March Violets (UK), Vision Video (Athens, GA), and Lowest of the Low (Toronto) and playing festivals like River and Sky (Sudbury), Riverfest (Elora), and Long Winter (Toronto). The band has been featured on CBC Radio (The Strombo Show, Fresh Air, Big City Small World), Exclaim!, NOW Magazine, and college radio across Canada and the USA.  

As they prepare for their next release, Ace of Wands remains a force to be reckoned with—fearlessly embracing their unique blend of artistic expression and musical prowess.