Instantly recognizable by his signature guitar style, enchanting songs, and unique voice, Martin Tielli was a driving force behind making the Rheostatics one of the most important bands to emerge from the Canadian musical landscape in decades. In his 13 years with the Rheostatics, also about to release a new album, Tielli has toured stadiums, written soundtracks, and earned the accolades of the critics and adoration from fans all over the continent.
In addition to the Rheostatics, Tielli released the highly acclaimed Nick Buzz record, "Circo", in 1996, and he has lent his skill on guitar to a number of other premiere Canadian acts, including Jane Siberry, the Barenaked Ladies, The Waltons, Meryn Cadell, Ashley MacIsaac, Tamara Williamson, Mia Sheard, and more. Tielli’s talents range beyond the realm of music to the visual arts as well. A gifted painter, Tielli has created, among other works, the covers of all the Rheostatics’ records. Enthusiasts can view sketchbook samples and purchase prints from The Story of Harmolodia, a work for which he was nominated for a Juno for Outstanding Album Design, at www.martintielli.net.
In the fall of 2000, Tielli embarked on a serious, all-consuming writing binge, emerging from a two-month period with 70 new songs. Twenty selections from this creative growth spurt were recorded in April, 2001 and the final selections appear on this much-anticipated, captivating solo CD, titled "We didn’t even suspect that he was the poppy salesman". Featuring simply Martin and his guitar, recorded live off the floor with a minimum of overdubs, the album is intimate, colourful, and pure Tielli.
