Hey Rosetta! and Yukon Blonde team up on anti-Harper song

by Richard Howard

Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s fondness for performing extra-lite covers of rock staples is well documented. Sadly, it seems that with the musicians he so admires, the feeling is most definitely not mutual.

From scientists to indie darlings to international stars, Canadian musicians have come out in droves to express their distaste for Harper and his government. As the elections loom, artists are become increasing vocal: just one week ago, country rockers Blue Rodeo released a video skewering the Harper administration. Now, St. John’s indie-rock outfit Hey Rosetta! is sounding off on Harper’s failings with a little help from their B.C. buddies Yukon Blonde.

“Land you Love” was penned by Hey Rosetta! frontman Tim Baker and calls on Canadians to fight for their country’s future, insisting “change has to come.” Filmed separately (presumably on opposing sides of the country), the performances include some well timed tricks to simulate interaction between the two bands.

However, they clearly hope viewers pay the most attention to the message. Using printed sheets of paper to share the powerful lyrics, the video ends with Hey Rosetta! cellist Romesh Thavanathan holding up a final sign: “Anything But Conservative.”