Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada
August 24, 2024
Words/Photos: Blake Mossey
Helix is a Canadian hard rock band hailing from Kitchener, Ontario, formed in 1974 by lead vocalist Brian Vollmer. Known for their high-energy performances, catchy hooks, and a relentless work ethic, Helix became a staple in the Canadian rock scene throughout the 1980s and beyond. The band’s early years were marked by constant touring and lineup changes as they honed their craft in the Canadian club circuit. Their breakthrough came in 1983 with the release of their third album, *No Rest for the Wick ed*. The album featured the hit single “Heavy Metal Love,” which garnered significant radio airplay and established Helix as one of Canada’s premier hard rock acts.
Helix’s commercial peak came with their 1984 album *Walkin’ the Razor’s Edge*, which included the hit singles “Rock You” and “Gimme Gimme Good Lovin’.” “Rock You,” with its anthemic “Gimme an R!” chant, became the band’s signature song and solidified their place in the hard rock pantheon. The success of *Walkin’ the Razor’s Edge* allowed Helix to tour extensively, sharing stages with acts like KISS, Mötley Crüe, and Quiet Riot.
Helix continued to release successful albums, including *Long Way to Heaven* (1985) and *Wild in the Streets* (1987). Despite their commercial success, the band faced numerous challenges, including lineup changes and the evolving musical landscape of the late ’80s and early ’90s. However, Vollmer’s unwavering commitment to the band kept Helix alive and kicking.
Their influence on Canadian rock cannot be understated. They paved the way for many Canadian hard rock and metal bands, proving that a group from a small town could achieve international success. Their music remains a staple on classic rock radio, and they continue to be a beloved live act in Canada and abroad.
Helix’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and a deep love for rock ‘n’ roll. With over four decades of rocking stages worldwide, Helix has cemented their place as one of Canada’s most enduring and iconic hard rock bands. Their legacy is a testament to the power of never giving up and always staying true to the music.
For myself personally being a teen of the 80’s also from small town Ontario. It was always great to hear some great Canadian hard rock and metal to enjoy and be proud of. Most Canadian bands had a hard time breaking out because of course it was the land before internet when bands like Helix were getting started. If I can remember correctly it was probably seeing their video on much music for Heavy Metal Love from their album No Rest For The Wicked. The album is still my favourite Helix album followed closely by their biggest selling album Walkin The Razors Edge. Back in their 80’s and 90’s era I only seen them live once and that was opening for Judas Priest in 1984 on their Defenders of the Faith tour. Helix was supporting their Razors Edge album. I saw them for the 2nd time back a few years back in a intimate show in London, Ontario that was to help raise money for Greg Hinz medical bills. Hinz passed away this year.
They played a free outdoor concert in Ingersoll, Ontario at the Good For The Soll music festival. The park was packed with people of all ages. I saw a 3 year old with a ROCK YOU shirt on! It brought me back to my teen years hearing again some of those classic hard rocking Helix songs like Heavy Metal Love, ROCK YOU, Amimal House, Wild In The Streets, You Keep Me Rockin, Gimme Gimme Good Lovin, and one of my favourites Dirty Dog and more. They even played a new song that was played live at this show before it was released to the world and that was Brothers From Another Mother which while they played photos from the years gone by were shown on a screen behind them.
45 years later and they can still put on a good show. It was a great nostalgia night for myself. And still great to see that they do keep on rockin.
