Ottawa based indie rockers Kosta McKay, Chris Thibedeau, and Chris Sims form a new power trio that has a unique, eclectic -yet non self-indulgent, live energy sound. Significant songwriters in their own right, the Dead Bees know how to craft a powerful tune. Mixtures of power pop and folk flourish throughout songs that rest comfortably on a foundation of indie rock rhythms, melodic bass lines, and clever guitar hooks. Their songs transition seamlessly through the three singers with tight harmonies, counter melodies, and sweet back-ups to boost both the band’s live and studio foundations. Similar to bands like Sloan, the listener seeks the accommodation of all three vocals to complete the aural anticipation of a Dead Bee song.
Kosta McKay’s(Drums/Vox) mark on Canada’s Indie rock scene has been impressionable. A founding member of The Pop Shove-its and The Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Kosta has often been recognized as one of Ottawa’s premier drumming sensations. His musicianship and melodic cognizance are bolstered by an inspiring vocal ability (reminiscent of The Shin’s James Mercer) that will leave you wanting more.
Chris Thibedeau (Bass/Guitar/Vox) is a monstrous bass guitar player who ensures tasteful, low-end frequency like few others. Coupled with a prolific arsenal of guitar abilities, Thibedeau knows how to deliver the goods. As a founding member of Halifax’s Purple Helmets, his migration to Ottawa earned him respect as a significant songwriter, having finished 2nd in Blue Rodeo’s Canada-Wide song writing contest a few years ago. He linked up with Kosta McKay for The Dept. of Foreign Affairs third Album (“Northern Living Northern Lights”) and toured extensively with the group. In 2008 The Dept. of Foreign Affairs received Chart Magazine’s highest score for a live performance at the North By North East (NXXE) music festival.
Chris Sims (Guitar/Bass/Vox) is simply one of Canada’s best emerging song writers. His vocal talent (Often described as similar in tone to Mick Jones from The Clash), and choice of melody are intriguing, unique and a key component to the dead bees’ sound. Chris was a founding member of This Minor Tremble with touring, studio work, and videos under his belt.
The Dead Bees are currently mixing down their first full length debut self-titled album. Produced by Dave Draves (Kathleen Edwards, Jim Bryson, Wooden Stars, etc.) at Lil’ Bull Horn Studios in Ottawa, the sneak preview of these 12 songs is already gaining a buzz in the community. Live 88.5 will be the first station to preview 5 of these songs and introduce Canada’s next big thing. Like warm tubes in an old black face amplifier...turn it on and warm up! The new Self-Titled Dead Bees Album is scheduled for independent release, sometime in the coming few months.
Members
Kosta McKay, Chris Thibedeau, and Chris Sims (with occasional guests)

Influences
Kasabian, Sloan, Weezer, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Big Star, Ween, Elliott Smith, The Inbreds, etc.
Quote
“What a great band, a smashing sound for a three piece, lovely. – Awesome performance.”
(Mark Oldstrat - East Coast Tour - Halifax show, Aug 2011)