The Leake in Review

In this latest episode of The Leake in Review, host Jeff Leake is joined by Ryan Gullen, bassist and co-founder of the legendary Canadian rockers The Sheepdogs. What starts as a casual catch-up quickly turns into a rollicking, laugh-out-loud conversation that bounces from career highs to hilarious detours.

Ryan walks Jeff through the wild story of The Sheepdogs landing the cover of Rolling Stone magazine — the first unsigned band ever to do so — and how that one moment changed everything for the band from Saskatoon. The guys then dive deep into their Canadian rock roots, trading stories about sharing stages and festival bills with The Tragically Hip and Bryan Adams. Ryan and Leake share never-before-heard tales of Gord Downie and the The Tragically Hip plus going topless for Bryan Adams

Of course, the main event is the brand-new Sheepdogs album Keep Out of the Storm. Ryan gives listeners an exclusive deep dive: the writing process, the raw emotion behind the title track, and why this record feels like their most honest work yet. He even teases a few surprise guests and the southern-rock-meets-70s-classic sound that defines it.

Then things take a gloriously weird left turn when the conversation somehow lands on… sex toys. What begins as a joke about “tour-bus essentials” spirals into ten minutes of absolute chaos as Ryan and Leake try to outdo each other with increasingly ridiculous stories. (Yes, there are sound effects. Yes, you will cry laughing.)

Whether you’re a die-hard Sheepdogs fan, a Canadian rock historian, or just here for the unfiltered banter, this episode has it all: nostalgia, new music, and one of the funniest segments in podcast history.

Grab your headphones, pour a drink, and settle in — Keep Out of the Storm is coming, and so is the laughter.

In this lively episode of *The Leake in Review*, host Leake sits down with Tim Chaisson and Jake Charron of the acclaimed East Coast folk band The East Pointers. Broadcasting from Toronto, the conversation dives deep into the highs and lows of life on the road as a touring musician. Tim and Jake share hilarious and harrowing stories from their extensive tours, including the unpredictable weather that always seems to catch up—blizzards in the Maritimes, scorching heat waves out west, and even navigating wildfires during Canadian summers that forced reroutes and smoky outdoor gigs. They reflect on how these elements not only test their resilience but inspire their music, turning chaos into creative fuel.

 

The spotlight shines on their brand-new album, *Schoonertown* (released January 23, 2026), which serves as an origin story for the band. Rooted in their Prince Edward Island upbringing, the record paints a vivid picture of youth's devastation and exhilaration—think small-town escapades, kitchen parties, first loves, family bonds, late-night drives, mistakes, laughter, ambition, and the raw energy of East Coast life. Tracks like the lead single "Ecstasy" capture that nostalgic yet forward-looking vibe, blending traditional fiddle-driven folk with modern production. Tim and Jake discuss the album's themes, recording process, and how it represents a return to their roots after years of international acclaim, including Juno wins and global festival runs.

 

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their infectious sound, this episode is packed with insights on balancing tour life with creativity, plus tips for aspiring musicians on surviving the road's wild side. Tune in for laughs, heartfelt moments, and a sneak peek at what's next for these road warriors!

 

Stream the full episode on your favorite podcast platforms, and don't forget to subscribe to *The Leake in Review* for more artist spotlights. Follow @TheLeake on X for updates!

 

### The East Pointers' Social Media

Stay connected with Tim, Jake, and the band for behind-the-scenes tour vibes, new music drops, and more:

- **Instagram**: [@theeastpointers](https://www.instagram.com/theeastpointers)

- **Facebook**: [@theeastpointers](https://www.facebook.com/theeastpointers)

- **X (Twitter)**: [@TheEastPointers](https://x.com/TheEastPointers)

- **Official Website**: [theeastpointers.com](https://theeastpointers.com) (includes Linktree for streaming, merch, and more: linktr.ee/TheEastPointers)

- **YouTube**: Search for "The East Pointers" for official videos and live performances

- **Spotify/Apple Music**: Follow for *Schoonertown* and their full discography

 

### Upcoming Tour Dates

The East Pointers are hitting the road hard in 2026, mostly as special guests on Alan Doyle's *Already Dancing Tour* across Canada, with some festival spots and a massive hometown album release show. Here's the full list of confirmed dates (as of February 2026—check theeastpointers.com or Bandsintown for tickets, updates, or additions):

 

| Date | Location | Venue | Time | Notes |

|------|----------|-------|------|-------|

| Feb 27, 2026 (Fri) | St. John's, NL, Canada | JAG Soundhouse | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Feb 28, 2026 (Sat) | St. John's, NL, Canada | JAG Soundhouse | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 3, 2026 (Tue) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 4, 2026 (Wed) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 5, 2026 (Thu) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 6, 2026 (Fri) | Halifax, NS, Canada | Light House Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 7, 2026 (Sat) | Moncton, NB, Canada | Molson Canadian Centre at Casino New Brunswick | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 8, 2026 (Sun) | Saint John, NB, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 10, 2026 (Tue) | Ottawa, ON, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 11, 2026 (Wed) | Kitchener, ON, Canada | Centre in the Square | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 12, 2026 (Thu) | Kitchener, ON, Canada | Centre in the Square | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 13, 2026 (Fri) | Montréal, QC, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 14, 2026 (Sat) | Toronto, ON, Canada | Massey Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 15, 2026 (Sun) | Toronto, ON, Canada | Massey Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 17, 2026 (Tue) | Thunder Bay, ON, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 18, 2026 (Wed) | Winnipeg, MB, Canada | Centennial Concert Hall | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 19, 2026 (Thu) | Saskatoon, SK, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 20, 2026 (Fri) | Regina, SK, Canada | Conexus Arts Centre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 21, 2026 (Sat) | Edmonton, AB, Canada | Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 22, 2026 (Sun) | Calgary, AB, Canada | Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 24, 2026 (Tue) | Trail, BC, Canada | Charles Bailey Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 25, 2026 (Wed) | Vancouver, BC, Canada | Orpheum Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 26, 2026 (Thu) | Kelowna, BC, Canada | Kelowna Community Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 27, 2026 (Fri) | Victoria, BC, Canada | Royal Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Mar 28, 2026 (Sat) | Victoria, BC, Canada | Royal Theatre | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| Apr 25, 2026 (Sat) | Charlottetown, PE, Canada | Eastlink Centre | 7:30 PM | Hometown *Schoonertown* Release Show (All Ages) |

| May 12, 2026 (Tue) | Phoenix, AZ, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| May 13, 2026 (Wed) | Phoenix, AZ, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| May 14, 2026 (Thu) | West Hollywood, CA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| May 15, 2026 (Fri) | Novato, CA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Bandits On The Run |

| May 16, 2026 (Sat) | Portland, OR, United States | (Venue TBD) | 8:00 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| May 17, 2026 (Sun) | Edmonds, WA, United States | (Venue TBD) | 7:30 PM | w/ Alan Doyle |

| May 29, 2026 (Fri) | Kerrville, TX, United States | Kennedy Outdoor Theater (Kerrville Folk Festival) | 10:00 PM | Festival Appearance |

| Jul 3, 2026 (Fri) | Miramichi, NB, Canada | (Venue TBD) | 5:00 PM | New Maritime Music Fest |

| Jul 31, 2026 (Fri) | Mulhurst, AB, Canada | Hilah Ayers Wilderness RV Park (Pigeon Lake Music Festival) | 7:00 PM | Festival Appearance |

 

Catch them live if you're in Toronto on March 14-15 at Massey Hall—perfect for locals! 🎻🚀

Mike & Donovan Bring the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival to The Leake in Review
In this lively installment of The Leake in Review, host Leake (@TheLeake) steps away from the music spotlight to dive into the world of live comedy with two key players behind one of Canada's most unique festivals: Mike and Donovan from the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival.
Donovan — better known to fans as the hilariously strict "Park Ranger Donovan" (complete with uniform, questionable park rules, and a knack for improvised chaos) — joins alongside Mike to unpack what makes this outdoor comedy extravaganza stand out. The festival blends cabaret-style shows under the stars with big-name headliners  and rising local talent, all while turning parks and green spaces into roaring comedy clubs.
The conversation kicks off with Donovan's origin story: how his over-the-top park ranger persona evolved from improv roots into the festival's official (and unofficial) mascot/spokesman. Mike provides the behind-the-scenes perspective, discussing the challenges and thrills of producing large-scale outdoor events — from scouting perfect natural venues to building community vibes, partnering with cities, and creating memorable experiences that feel more like a wild adventure than a standard comedy show.
Sign up on the official site for updates: https://greatoutdoorscomedyfestival.com/
Here's the full list of 2026 locations, all dates, and confirmed main headliners/top billed acts (as of mid-February 2026 announcements):
Edmonton, AB (Kinsmen Park) – July 17–19, 2026Friday, July 17 (Evening): TBA
Saturday, July 18 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife & Friends (main headliner)
Sunday, July 19 (Afternoon & Evening): TBA

Winnipeg, MB (Assiniboine Park) – July 17–19, 2026Friday, July 17 (Evening): TBA
Saturday, July 18 (Afternoon & Evening): TBA
Sunday, July 19 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife & Friends (main headliner)

Halifax, NS (Garrison Grounds) – August 6–9, 2026Thursday, August 6 (Evening): Matt Rife & Friends
Friday, August 7 (Evening): Matt Rife & Friends
Saturday, August 8 (Afternoon & Evening): Andrew Schulz (Saturday Evening in some listings; others TBA)
Sunday, August 9 (Afternoon & Evening): Nikki Glaser (closing headliner, with Fortune Feimster & Steph Tolev) + Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Sunday Afternoon)

Calgary, AB (Prince’s Island Park) – August 28–30, 2026Friday, August 28 (Evening): Matt Rife & Friends
Saturday, August 29 (Afternoon & Evening): TBA
Sunday, August 30 (Afternoon & Evening): TBA

Vancouver, BC (Stanley Park) – August 28–30, 2026Friday, August 28 (Evening): TBA
Saturday, August 29 (Afternoon & Evening): Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Saturday Afternoon); others TBA
Sunday, August 30 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Rife (Sunday Evening headline); Jeff Arcuri (Sunday Afternoon)

Spokane, WA (ONE Spokane Stadium) – August 29–30, 2026Saturday, August 29 (Evening): Matt Rife & Friends
Sunday, August 30 (Evening): Bill Burr (confirmed headliner)

Mississauga, ON (Erindale Park) – September 11–13, 2026Friday, September 11 (Evening): John Mulaney (with Nick Kroll, Mike Birbiglia, Fred Armisen)
Saturday, September 12 (Afternoon & Evening): Adam Ray as Dr. Phil LIVE (Saturday Afternoon); others TBA
Sunday, September 13 (Afternoon & Evening): Matt Mathews & Jordan Jensen (Sunday Afternoon); TBA for Evening

In this must-listen episode, host Jeff Leake sits down with legendary Canadian music historian and broadcaster Alan Cross to dive deep into the brand-new documentary CFNY: The Spirit of Radio.
From its humble beginnings in a little yellow house in Brampton, CFNY (the station that inspired Rush's iconic hit "The Spirit of Radio") became a global force in punk, new wave, and alternative music during its groundbreaking years. Alan shares insider stories from the station's golden era, reflects on its massive influence on artists, and more, and discusses what makes this fresh documentary the definitive tribute to a true radio revolution.
Whether you're a longtime Edge listener, a Rush fan, or just love the history of modern rock radio, this conversation is packed with nostalgia, behind-the-scenes gems, and pure musical passion.
Tune in now! 🎙️📻

In this episode, John-Angus MacDonald joins host Leake to discuss touring, recording sessions with friends Gord Sinclair (of The Tragically Hip) and Brett and Jay Emmons (of The Glorious Sons), the new album The Bloody Light, busking, and more.
Catch The Trews on Tour
DateVenueCity January 15, 2026OLG Stage at Fallsview CasinoNiagara Falls, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 13, 2026Commodore BallroomVancouver, BChttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 15, 2026Midway Music HallEdmonton, ABhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 16, 2026The Palace TheatreCalgary, ABhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 18, 2026Coors Event CentreSaskatoon, SKhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 21, 2026Burton Cummings TheatreWinnipeg, MBhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 23, 2026Thunder Bay Community AuditoriumThunder Bay, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/February 28, 2026The Colosseum at Caesars WindsorWindsor, ONhttps://www.thetrewsmusic.com/Tickets are available via Ticketmaster, Bandsintown, Songkick, and the band's website.
Official Social Media Pages
Official Website: www.thetrewsmusic.com
Facebook: facebook.com/thetrewsmusic
Instagram: @thetrewsmusic (via their Linktree)
X (Twitter): @thetrews
YouTube: youtube.com/thetrews
All Links (including Spotify, TikTok, etc.): linktr.ee/thetrews