Grand Analog

Odario Williams, the MC, singer, and producer from Winnipeg, Manitoba, originated Grand Analog as a platform for his broader musical explorations in reggae- and dub-infused hip-hop. Already affiliated with the Canadian rap outfit Mood Ruff, Williams initially launched the project in 2002 as an experimental rock ensemble, yet that early version of the group disbanded almost immediately without gaining traction. He revived the effort in 2006 by recruiting an expanded roster of Winnipeg-based collaborators, among them producer Darcy Ataman, guitarist Damon Mitchell from American Flamewhip and the New Meanies, his brother Ofield Williams on production and DJ duties, producer and keyboardist DJ Catalist, bassist and keyboardist Arun Chaturvedi, bassist Joel Kaverklamp of the Hummers, and bassist Warren Bray. Following recording work across Toronto and Winnipeg, Williams issued the debut album Calligraffiti through UrbNet Records in July 2007. The record’s blend of hip-hop, dub, soul, alternative rock, and pop drew favorable notices—though largely beyond major outlets—and invited parallels to fellow Canadian artist k-os. Its digitally issued singles, accompanied by YouTube clips, namely “Social Butterfly,” “I’ll Walk Alone,” and “Around the Town,” sustained interest in the project across the remainder of 2007.