A Very Canadian Band, Right Here in Squamish

By Anne Bright
Published: Feb.2, 2013

Although all seasoned musicians, they are part of a fairly new indie band spinning music together for only four years in Squamish.

Zombies Locker is comprised of bassist and guitarist, Todd Mader, drummer Enzo Milia, lead singer and guitarist, Ben Lens and John Bright on the Hammond organ. 

Recently, they celebrated the release of their new album, 3. The energy formed a lasting impression.  So did the classic wall of Genz Benz bass amps and Marshall stack that delivered the music in a way it’s meant to be heard. 

The atmosphere was electric, as new and old fans grooved to the rhythm of Zombies Locker.

Ben’s powerful Ozzy-like voice, Todd’s Robert Plant-like golden mane, Enzo’s thunderous delivery on drums and that classic growl of the Hammond organ took all back to the ol’ playful rock of 80s days at the Metro that drove people straight to the dance floor.

The name “Zombies Locker” originated from a popular Squamish rock climb located in Smoke Bluffs named Zombies Roof and a combination of previous band names.  The person who named the climb was a big fan of Frank Zappa and the song Zomby Wolf.

The album 3 boasts an impressive collection of songs.

Whether listening to Awaken, headphones cranked, about environmental degradation, or watching them perform Bruises live, the Zombies Lockers deliver great music.

Ben Lens, the youngest of the trio, was born and raised in Squamish, and joined the band Davy’s Locker when he was 18.  He admits he really doesn’t plug into much of today’s music, but instead finds himself listening to what he did when he was 20. 

“However,” he laughs, “I do listen when my children crank it up.”

Todd Mader admits to being a true product of the 70s.

He’s all heart and soul and dreams in melody.  His composition style is influenced by David Bowie, Alice Cooper, Frank Zappa and Jimi Hendrix to name a few. 

Enzo Milia has a passion for BIG drums.

When asked about his style he said, “I’ve stolen from the best of the best and could probably sit in with Led Zeppelin and nail every song”.  

John Bright, the newest member of this band, studied under world renowned jazz pianist Brian Browne.

This reporter caught up with them during a week long recording session in the Eagle Eye Theatre.  They were engaged in listening to playbacks. 

When asked why they chose to record at Eagle Eye, Todd said the goal was to capture a live drum sound, natural reverb, and the ambience and high ceiling. 

“Our goal is to create a natural recording rather than a digitized one,” he said.

To support this local talent, come to the Roxy on February 7.