Emerging from the frosty slopes of Revelstoke, BC, Pickle Juice came together during a lackluster snow season in 2023. Born out of boredom and a shared love for music, this five-piece band unites members from Canada, Australia, and England, fusing diverse influences into a distinctive alt-rock sound. Their first singles, “Toxic and Sweet” and “Caught in a Lie,” dropped in 2024, catching ears across BC’s ski resorts and beyond. Now, with their debut EP Cheeky set for release in February 2025 and a Western Canada tour alongside Ottawa’s AHRF, the band is primed for their biggest year yet. Fans are drawn to their driving rhythms, magnetic melodies, and guitar hooks that carve out a space as one of Western Canada’s most exciting new acts.
“Our sound really came together in a cramped basement full of snowboard gear and old instruments,” recalls lead guitarist Josh Radford. “It was chaos, but it pushed us to explore something unique.” With influences spanning continents, Pickle Juice blends the grit of Australia’s rock edge, the UK’s indie flair, and North America’s raw authenticity. “We’re not just five ski bums,” says vocalist Tim van der Krogt. “Our music connects with anyone who’s ever felt out of place or craved something real.” Their EP reflects this global identity, each track showcasing different musical roots while maintaining their signature energy.
Cheeky EP delivers on the band’s promise of raw, infectious energy, offering a five-track ride through anthemic choruses, clever lyricism, and dynamic instrumentation. Opening track “Powder Days” immediately sets the tone, layering punchy guitars over an unshakable rhythm section, while “Better Off” leans into a grittier, Brit-rock-inspired sound reminiscent of Arctic Monkeys. The standout track, “Avalanche Hearts,” balances soaring melodies with introspective lyricism, solidifying its place as the emotional core of the EP. Closing with the raucous “Loose Ends,” Pickle Juice proves they’re more than just a novelty act from the slopes—they’re a band with staying power.
With Cheeky, Pickle Juice has crafted an EP that is both playful and poignant, offering a fresh yet familiar take on modern alt-rock. As they embark on their Western Canada tour, expect their growing momentum to carry them far beyond the mountain town roots that started it all.