Down the Lees

Down The Lees is a post-noise-rock trio rooted in Vancouver and Belgium, now based in the Okanagan Valley. Fronted by guitarist/vocalist Laura Lee Schultz, with Andy Ashley (drums) and Chris Carlson (bass), the band is known for raw intensity, emotional depth, and powerful live shows. Their 2024 album Dirt (produced by Jesse Gander) and OSIF Award-winning single “Douse” earned critical praise. Funded by Creative BC, they filmed a cinematic concert at the Mary Irwin Theatre for an upcoming live album and film, captured by Irisphere Entertainment and mixed by Gander. Their discography includes Bury the Sun, recorded by Steve Albini, and they’ve played with Brutus, Pil, Sparta, Chastity, and KEN mode. With distorted soundscapes and unflinching lyrics, Down The Lees continues to carve out a reputation as one of Canada’s most compelling and emotionally resonant live acts.

"Down the Lees defy pigeonholing into any genre, unless “powerful and inventive” is now a genre to itself." - Metal Digest Magazine

“A raw and haunting journey through the depths of human emotion and experience. Laura Lee Schultz exposes vulnerability and truth in every line. Prepare to be moved, challenged, and ultimately, deeply affected by the honesty and depth of this release." - Canadian Beats

“One of the most hauntingly heavy slabs of music you’ll encounter all year.” - Get Some Magazine

“Their latest EP, “Dirt” is an interesting, alternative and gritty proof of their tenacity. Produced by Jesse Gander at Raincity Recorders and mastered by Blake Bickel, “Dirt” captures the unpolished, visceral energy of Down The Lees, without loosing its well-thought and interestingly crafter structure. - Idioteq

"Dirty, daring and at times delicate... a wide array of styles collide in this tale of desperation and hardships, with a glimmer of hope. The rhythm section provides the perfect backdrop for Laura’s distorted guitar work and enticing vocals." - Sonic Perspectives