While driving North on Highway 6 towards Guelph, Ontario, just off of the mighty 401, on a cool, mid-August afternoon complete with low cloud ceilings and intermittent showers, an idea was born…  An idea that originally meant little more than an exclamation concerning an outdoor vs. indoor performance for the upcoming evening.   It, however, quickly became a crucial “launch point” for the next evolution of the band Nickeltree as they faced inevitable choices concerning the future of the band as it was then and is now. Within the past 10 years, Nickeltree has produced 5 full-length, original albums including the self-titled “Nickeltree” (1998), Weatherproof  (2000), Verstehen (2001), Middle to Nowhere (2004) and now, the long-anticipated release of “The Skies are Threatening.”             Aside from continuing their prolific song-writing run, fueled by the constant creative efforts of front-man and guitarist James Irving,  the steady and reliable grooves and harmonies of bass player and singer Kevin Baker, and the newly recruited, “percussion proficient,” David Sabine, the band continues to tour and perform at some of Canada’s most memorable venues, specifically those of the western provinces and Ontario. Nickeltree has opened for such bands as Nazareth, Limblifter, The New Meanies, The Mahones, Prism, Harlequin, and various others. Also, they have performed at various festivals and shows sharing the stage with such bands as Collective Soul, Nickelback, 54-40 and Blue Rodeo.  Highlights of the Canadian tour from the past two years include such memorable venues as Toronto's Horseshoe Tavern, El Mocambo, Lee's Palace, The Opera House and the Reverb.  As well, Nickeltree has perfomed at Saskatoon's "Taste of Saskatchewan" and Ness Creek festival.  Many more smaller but no less significant venues from across Western Canada and Ontario have played host to the band.               “The Skies Are Threatening” is more than just an expression of the individual  interpretation of the band, its music, the industry, and the fans.  It is also a global expression of our world as we enter a time of re-evaluation, rejuvenation and ultimately…preservation.          Although separated by distance, geography and circumstance, the group continues to flourish and prosper and will continue to defy the odds to create a truly Canadian product.  Look for our next project coming soon!  In addition, a cross-Canada tour is in the initial planning stage for early summer, 2007 so stay tuned for more information as time nears… “No Band is an Island”, and neither is our precious planet.  Let us move forward and explore in this experience the best way we know how… with honest and dignified rock and roll. Ever Yours, Nickletree