Nanaimo songwriter Marshal Dillabough spent hours exploring the paths at Morrell Nature Sanctuary.
The experience inspired him to write songs.
“I’ve spent a lot of time there over the last couple of years. It’s really about experiences there … and the mindset,” said Dillabough, lead singer and guitarist for Maverick Cinema. “It’s a really peaceful place. It allows you to linger a bit in the paths and looks at the trees and rock formations.”
His songs created the framework for the band’s new EP Sanctuary. One of the songs, Morrell, pays homage to Dillabough’s time at the sanctuary.
“I kind of write the basic structure and the lyrics,” said Dillabough, adding then the band comes together and works on the songs.
He was inspired by the natural landscape of Vancouver Island.
“It’s about a journey and personal growth and making something out of nothing at all,” said Dillabough about the album.
Dillabough created the band with his friend Cam Harper, drummer. It includes Spencer Hiemstra, guitar and Seth Recalma, bass. The two friends are avid movie fans so they knew they wanted cinema in their band name. To come up with the first word in the name they flipped through a dictionary.
Maverick Cinema hosts its album release party with special guests Lusitania Lights and Stel at the Vault Café Saturday (June 11).
“Everyone is amazing here and has given us lots of love and we are ready to give a little love back,” he said.
Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show begins at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $12 from https://ca.brownpapertickets.com and it includes a copy of Sanctuary or $10 at the door.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com