Beija Flor


Beija Flor is an indie rock band formed in 2003 from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The band is made up of Stephen van Kampen, Paul van Kampen, Dan Wilson, Brett Gunther, Henry Hsieh, and Hoyee Wong. The band is also known for their self-orchestrated light show, consisting of a case of colored and strobe lights that are controlled by Stephen through a circuit of foot switches. "Beija-flor" means "hummingbird" in Portuguese.

History

Beija Flor was originally formed by brothers Stephen and Paul van Kampen, Matt Bayliff, and Jon Reddit. Jon has since left the band and Stephen and Paul's long time friend Brett Gunther has taken over the vacant guitar spot. Henry Hsieh joined the band in late 2006. Hoyee Wong joined late in 2007 after recording violins for "The American", as the band felt Hoyee was an integral part of their sound. All members of Beija Flor contributed vocal tracks for their latest album. In the spring of 2009, drummer Matt Bayliff and Beija Flor went their separate ways. Bayliff went on to pursue other endeavors, which opened an opportunity for Dan Wilson to join the group.
Beija Flor's single, The American from the like-titled album reached No. 1 in the Top 30 most requested songs on Calgary's CJSW radio for the week ending January 15, 2008. Beija Flor have also been featured on CBC Radio 3 across Canada on various New Music segments.

Discography