Post-Rock Group Versa Releases A Voyage / A Destination Part 2

Music has the extraordinary power to do more than entertain—it can evoke a range of emotions, from hope to fear, connecting listeners to the universal experiences of humanity. Few modern bands capture this idea as effectively as Canadian progressive/post-rock band Versa. Formed in 2007, Versa has spent over 15 years honing their unique sound, which balances serene vocals, thoughtful songwriting, and intricate instrumentation. Each of their releases reflects this growth, from their debut self-titled album in 2007 to The Decline & Fall of… in 2010, Common Things EP in 2012, and most recently, their ambitious 2022 release, A Voyage / A Destination.

For A Voyage / A Destination, the band decided to split the album into two parts, with the first installment released in April 2022. Bandleader Matthew Dolmage explained this decision, saying that “the bulk of the material was recorded at the same time,” but completing the project in one release proved challenging. He noted that although the split was difficult, it ultimately felt like the best approach for both the band and their audience. The separation allowed the band to carefully refine each track and let the album’s themes breathe, allowing listeners to immerse themselves fully in each installment.

One of the highlights of A Voyage / A Destination is the single “Flew the Coop,” featuring Ross Jennings, lead vocalist of the British progressive metal band Haken. Written by Dolmage, the song aims to capture a nostalgic yet introspective feeling, blending genres to create a uniquely textured sound. With influences from indie folk, progressive rock, and post-rock, “Flew the Coop” is a track that bridges the gap between longing and liberation. Dolmage’s goal was to make listeners feel the music’s raw emotions, drawing on musical textures that layer vocals with instrumental depth, creating a reflective and almost cinematic experience.

Versa’s progressive rock influences have always been evident, but as Dolmage notes, the band wanted to push further into progressive rock territory with A Voyage / A Destination. He explains, “We’ve always incorporated some progressive rock elements into our music, but I wanted to experiment with writing more explicitly ‘prog’ songs and incorporating more vocal elements as well.” This approach has paid off, as A Voyage / A Destination presents a mature sound that deepens the band’s commitment to exploring complex themes through music.

What sets Versa apart is their ability to create soundscapes that feel both grand and intimate. Their songs unfold gradually, allowing listeners to be drawn into each layer of instrumentation and lyrical nuance. Dolmage and his bandmates have cultivated a chemistry that reveals itself in how seamlessly each instrument supports the others. From guitar riffs that echo across tracks to vocals that sit just above the instrumentation, Versa’s music is carefully arranged, with each piece fitting into a larger sonic puzzle.

Flew the Coop serves as a centerpiece for A Voyage / A Destination and demonstrates Versa’s range, as the band navigates between different sounds and styles. The collaboration with Jennings adds an additional layer to the song, as his powerful yet nuanced voice complements Dolmage’s reflective writing. Together, they create a track that encapsulates the album’s themes of growth, self-discovery, and the search for freedom.

Through their commitment to refining their craft, Versa has become a distinct voice in the progressive and post-rock scenes. Their music doesn’t just entertain—it invites listeners on a journey through thoughtfully constructed soundscapes and lyrical explorations. A Voyage / A Destination is a testament to their evolution as musicians, showcasing their ability to blend introspective themes with intricate instrumentation. As Versa continues to push the boundaries of their genre, they remind us that music can be a vehicle for connecting with the deeper parts of ourselves and, ultimately, with each other.

With over 15 years in the industry, Versa has developed a sound that is both familiar and refreshing, continuing to resonate with audiences by addressing universal experiences in innovative ways.