Strange Breed – Love is the answer. by Rick Young Native Londoner David Sisson, AKA Strange Breed, is a multi- faceted artist, whose creativity takes many forms, including drumming, singer-songwriting, emceeing, poetry and comic book publishing. At this point in his career, he says singer- songwriting and emceeing are his major focus. “Poetry is still a big part of my life, but something that is often either incorporated into my musical side or left private for myself,” says Strange. “I am also writing down ideas, sometimes they just make more sense as poetry than a song. When I’m not at work or with family, I focus all of my time and energy on creating new music. It’s my biggest purpose, I think.” Strange is a member of London’s LGBTQ+ community. “I am openly bisexual and was previously in a polyamorous relationship for several years with two different partners,” he says. “There is now just two of us, and we both continue to promote our deep and loving support for the LGBTQ+ community. It remains a staple subject in many of my songs, and that part of my identity is something of which I am very proud.” “I have never spent a full day without listening to at least some music since the day I was born, and it has always been a very integral part of my life. I’d say I really chose to take things professional shortly after my grandmother bought me a pair of snare drums in my early teens,” says Strange. “My parents paid for lessons and that just set a fire in me that never went away. My first band played its debut show in 2004, so I’ve been doing various projects since that time. Strange Breed came along in 2018 and has been growing like crazy ever since. I’d say I’m a part-time musician out of financial necessity, however, I take it very seriously.”
Photos by Andrew Pillot Strange has played many gigs in many different places over the years. In addition to touring throughout Ontario, he says he is blessed to have played in Detroit and New York City. “Two of the biggest shows I’ve played to date I think would include finally getting to do a gig at Rum Runners, and a return gig at 765 Old East right after lockdown that ended up entirely sold out.” David has been busy in the recording studio, as well. “I’ve released six albums as Strange Breed thus far, two albums with Ursa Nova, and a debut album for Incognito Baby. My most recent release was under the Strange Breed moniker and is called ‘The Madness of the Infinite,’ he says. “It is a big concept album and touches upon the meaning of life and questions of where we go when it all ends. My producer MJ Ultra and I put countless hours into it and I’m really proud of the result. It touches upon numerous genres and styles, moods and meanings and even cameos all of my family in some really touching surprises.” Strange says his greatest honour to date has been receiving the Forest City London Music Award for Hip Hop Artist of the Year in 2021. He is also proud to have achieved third place in the “Survival of the Fittest” contest and having performed numerous times at the Sound Series in Brooklyn, New York. At the moment, Strange is devoting much of his time to promoting The Madness of the Infinite, as well as Incognito Baby’s debut release, “Sticks and Stones.” Both can be found on his website – www.strangebreed.ca – and on all major musical platforms. New music and more shows are on the horizon in 2023. “I can be very philosophical and curiously spiritual, both in and out of art. I am constantly tinkering with what I think to be the purpose for being here,” says Strange. “The one thing I can say about myself is that I believe others should try to erase Hate from their vocabulary. It’s easy to hate something that isn’t pleasant, but everything is a teacher. It’s okay to dislike experiences, but the moment you erase hate from your life and learn to love everything and everyone around you, you can start to find true happiness. Love is the answer!”
In addition to his performances as Strange Breed, David is in a group of fellow hip hop musicians called Ursa Nova and, in a band, called Incognito Baby. “We have been doing a lot of music together and have a lot more coming in the near future. I endeavour to touch upon as many musical genres as I can.” Strange cites many influences on his music, including groups like Eve 6, The Tea Party, Outkast, Gorillaz, The Beatles, Childish Gambino and especially David Bowie. When asked what people can expect from a Strange Breed show, David sums it up in one word: Passion. “My live performances are where I truly shine. You can expect a heck of a lot of energy and a lot of love for the crowd. I will always try and interact as much as possible with the audience and always keep the room in high spirits. If you ever see my name on a flyer, I guarantee I won’t disappoint.”
PRIDE Villager
Issue 9 • Fall 2022 Page 12
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