Rich Aucoin has never been one to do things by the book and his current Press On Tour takes it up a notch. Instead of driving to each city, he will be biking cross-country to each of the 15 shows. The Set List caught up with this Canadian indie musician over email for a look into the journey and the idea behind it.
Photo by Corbin Smith.
With just three shows left, Aucoin’s tour is coming to a close. Starting at the end of March, he has traveled from LA to the east coast, where he will wrap up in Philadelphia on June 26. This massive endeavor is all to raise awareness for mental health: 100% of the tour proceeds will be donated to Mental Health America and The Canadian Mental Health Association.
Aucoin mentions that he has previously been involved in large fundraising initiatives but always wanted to combine music and fundraising in a way that would grab attention. With the conversation surrounding mental health becoming more comfortable and prominent in society, Aucoin stresses the importance of keeping that societal shift in the spotlight.
“I think looking at mental illness as an illness that occurs just in the same way cancer occurs is a big shift happening at the moment…”
While the musician deems cycling the easiest part, he says the most difficult aspect has been building support for the shows. However, he finds the energy of the shows and the positive comments online the most rewarding part of the experience. Plus, this tour has given him the opportunity to write new music, experience the diverse country in a new way, and see all of the changing landscapes from deserts to mountains and red rocks to oceans.
Aucoin’s ethereal pop sound filled with velvety vocals and a contagious beat makes for high energy shows fans and critics have deemed a “natural anti-depressant.”
Don’t miss this exciting show at DC9 Nightclub on June 20. Buy your tickets now!