Van Halst is a Canadian hard rock/metal band currently based out of Toronto, ON. Their songs speak to a variety of social justice issues such as poverty, youth homelessness, religion, domestic violence and feminism. Van Halst is made up of musicians from each corner of Canada including, British Columbia, Alberta and Newfoundland. While the band came together in Alberta, they are currently based out of Toronto, ON. Their first single “Save Me” was released, worldwide, on October 2, 2015 and their new full-length album, World of Make Believe, will be released on March 4, 2016. The album will be supported by a North American tour through Canada and the western coast of the USA. Van Halst began as a solo project for lead singer, Kami Van Halst, in 2013. When Kami realized that she wanted to add a metal fusion to her sound she decided that operating as a band, and bringing in the right musicians, was necessary to the project’s success. Today, Kami Van Halst dominates as the vocalist performing both growls and soaring vocals, Scott Greene and Strathon J. Bajowsky craft the guitar work while Brendan McMillan (bass) and Brett Seaton (drums) drive the rhythm section of the band. Kami’s range and virtuosic vocal ability always captivates an audience and her attitude on stage truly delivers the meaning behind the songs. The main writing forces for the band are Kami and Scott working together to give listeners a vivid image of social injustices. The band’s influences stay true to goth rock, Kami Van Halst demonstrates an agile vocal delivery in combination with pummelling growls. Lyrically, the band draws from black metal due to its focus on people suffering from isolation and rising to overcome the preconceptions of a judgemental society. In This Moment’s industrial fusion remains a primary influence for Van Halst, employing a sampler, synthesizer, and distorted vocals.  The band’s live performance is a theatric experience as they utilize full-costumes, make-up and stage props to give their audience not only a stellar musical experience but a visual show as well. Quotes: “Van Halst’s musical aesthetic is a mix of Joan Jett, Evanescence, The Pretty Reckless and Shinedown.” - Cailtin Crawshaw, Work of Arts Blog “Her music is in-your-face, rock and roll.” Leah Germain, The Sherwood Park News “She is a rocker with a social conscience.” Enbridge Emerging Artist Award Write Up “Kami is one of our heroes, she uses her music to give a voice to those who, at this point in their lives, aren’t heard.” - Alberta Primetime- Around Alberta Feature