Listening to The Lotus Theory, one immediately recognizes that this is something different. There are hints of 80s pop and European influences such as The Cardigans, Pulp, and Blur, but while their music is up-beat and catchy, The Lotus Theory avoids revisiting many of the clichés common to pop music. Formed in London, Ontario in the summer of 2007 by singer Karen Bell and producer Darryl Lahteenmaa, The Lotus Theory eschews the romance themes typical to pop music in favour of both personal themes such as identity construction and more universal issues including the effects of global warming. In addition, the instrumentation of the band, though rooted in the keyboard riffs of Lahteenmaa and the pop vocals of K.B., has a decidedly rock aesthetic. Interested in creating a fuller sound that would bring energy to both the recorded music and stage shows, Darryl and Karen began expanding the band roster in the fall.

Will Armstrong, a veteran of the Hamilton music scene, brought intense yet down-tempo drum beats to the mix. Guitarist Patrick Hughes, a former member of the hardest working band in Edmonton, added variety through integrating his knowledge of jazz and pop music into the sound of The Lotus Theory. The final piece of the puzzle was Paudy Gnyss, an experienced bassist and road warrior whose extensive performance history adds a real energy to live performances. The line-up completed, by the winter, The Lotus Theory was actively writing songs and recording their first CD, All Things Change When We Do. The recording process was an important milestone for the band as it allowed them to really craft and produce their sound while experimenting with a wide range of new and old technologies.

The cold London winter was a fruitful time for The Lotus Theory, for in addition to their CD, they also shot their first video for the single “Lost and Found.” The video was featured on the Yahoo/Google online video contest and was honoured by being voted the fan favorite. Soon after, K.B. made her second video appearing in the acclaimed Neverending White Lights video, “The World is Darker” (2008) featuring Melissa Auf Der Maur (Hole, Smashing Pumpkins).

Things are continuing to move forward for The Lotus Theory. Following the release of All Things Change When We Do, an ethereal blend of airy soprano vocals, melodic guitars lines and Rhodes electric piano, The Lotus Theory has taken to the stage, playing shows all over southwestern Ontario. In addition, their album is in rotation on both traditional and internet radio stations. They are planning the release of a supporting video for early 2009 as well as a new album for late 2009.