Ian Martens hails from Saskatoon, Canada, where he has been playing and writing rock'n roll for years. Only one thing was getting in the way - band members. "They kept moving away or going to university, so the light bulb moment came: I'll go solo acoustic!" The rest is history.
Ian has since then been honing his songwritng skills and playing live as often as possible. "I started getting a feel for what songs connected with people and why when I would play locally. Then when people would applaude my songs, the momentum came and I just kept writing." The result is a full-length solo acoustic album called, "Have You Heard?"
A departure from Ian's previous rock album of 2002 entitled, "There's A Buzz Goin' 'Round", "Have You Heard?" is more like a collection of your favourite unplugged tunes from all your favourite rock bands. "I always loved the acoustic songs that rock bands did, so that's what inspired me to do this record. Plus I wanted people to leave my show with something they could take home that was what they actually heard live. I love the raw, honest element of an acoustic set."
With a fresh approach to the world of solo acoustic music, "Have You Heard?" bridges the gap between flashy instrumental guitar and the singer-songwriter approach. Many songs deal with relationships, specifically between God and man such as "Hello It's Me (All Caught Up With You)" and I'm Everywhere". Other themes deal with the human condition, like the witty and metaphorical "Crash " and the politically inspired "Deliver Us From Evil". Songs like "September" and the title track showcase Ian's guitar work.
Regardless of the genre, Ian's music is always uplifting. "Have You Heard?" shows Ian wearing his faith on his sleeve, yet the songs are never preachy. "We're all in the same boat. We'll all stand before the judgement seat one day. We all have to decide whether we'll receive the gift of Salvation on our own." Although the album has a deep spiritual undertone, it's still fun, easy-going and above all catchy.
