Alien Radio

“Alien Radio is the Canadian creative music power trio of clarinetist François Houle, bassist James Meger, and percussionist Joe Sorbara. These stalwart sonic adventurers come together as often as the universe allows to breathe life into a diverse book of compositions penned by Houle and Sorbara as well as free jazz and experimental music luminaries such as Anthony Braxton, John Carter, and Steve Lacy. Having formed in Vancouver during a moment of confluence that saw Sorbara on secondment to Canada’s left coast, the three now travel greater distances to convene. The musical kinship founded in James’ rehearsal shed in East Van, however, remains as the cornerstone of their music.

In August 2020, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, they released their first two albums: Clichés vol. I: Trio Music, on Sorbara's Oval Window Records, and Clichés vol. II: Trio Axioms, on Houle's Afterday Audio.

In November 2019, Toronto-based saxophonist and clarinetist, Ted Crosby, filled in for François on a short tour of Québec and Southern Ontario that included a beautiful night at Zula House in Hamilton. Now, due to the creative medling of our generous host, Cem Zafir, two different versions of the band will converge and become something else(!).”