The Choir Practice was one of several large-scale indie pop ensembles to emerge at the dawn of the 21st century. Similar to the Polyphonic Spree insofar as they adopted the trappings of a choir, this Vancouver-based group drew heavily from traditional chorale music and '60s acts like the Mamas & the Papas and the New Christy Minstrels in crafting their woodsy, poignant arrangements. Veteran bassist Coco Culbertson (formerly of the Gay and the A.C. Newman Band) started the project in 2005, and a rotating cast of indie rock royalty were invited to round out the group. By 2007, the choir was comprised of Culbertson, her partner Kurt Dahle (New Pornographers), Larissa Loyva (P:ano), Olivia Fetherstonhaugh (FanShaw), members of Pokiok Falls, Chris Kelly (Gay Straights), Shane Turner (Love and Mathematics), Ska-T, filmmaker Shira Blustein, Ida Nilsen (Great Aunt Ida), and artist Sydney Vermont. Making their live debut opening up for Antony and the Johnsons, the group went on to win a loyal local following throughout the Vancouver area. Their self-titled debut album was released on Mint in the summer of 2007. ~ Margaret Reges, Rovi
