Jack Harlan

Jack Harlan's career began in Alberta in which he spent most of his time writing original material and was featured in the Calgary Folk Festival, local Calgary T.V., newspapers and radio. At 19, after selling out the local 185-seat Engineered Air Theatre with only his acoustic guitar and original songs, Jack moved to Vancouver in search of new inspiration. Before arriving, he spent some time in Mexico playing music for 'missionaries and villagers' as well as some time in Los Angeles.

At 19, after selling out the local 185-seat Engineered Air Theatre with only his acoustic guitar and original songs, Jack moved to Vancouver in search of new inspiration.

Before arriving, he spent some time in Mexico playing music for 'missionaries and villagers' as well as some time in Los Angeles.

Setting aside music temporarily in Vancouver, Jack studied at the Western School of Funeral Service for two intense years and was granted his Government License as a Funeral Director and Licensed Embalmer. Though not directly related to his music career, he considers this a time of great inspiration.

Always pursuing his belief in writing his own material, he became known as 'One of Vancouver's most commanding songwriters.' according to the Vancouver Province.

After headlining in the highly publicized 'Folk Noir' string of shows in Vancouver, Harlan signed a recording contract with Nettwerk Records and has an album, Carnival of Mystery, that was released in 2002.

Three other independent albums showcase Harlan's music: The Hymns of Sorrow, Scintilla and Things that Nowhere People Do.

Jack's music has been used in Lynne Stopkewich's film 'Suspicious River' as well as being headlined in the opening scene for another Vancouver based film 'Fallen'. In addition to movie soundtracks, his music has been licensed for the T.V. series 'Big Sound'. Jack's song Please Don't Pass Me By was also recently featured in the season
finale for the popular Warner Brothers televison show Everwood.

Jack has played Music West and been recorded by CBC, for the program North by North West, at the local Vancouver venue 'The Sugar Refinery'.

Jack states that his weirdest and worst gigs were 'playing for coyotes in Mexico' and opening for Dido at her first Vancouver showcase.

The Georgia Straight says 'he is a man who works hard at his craft' and the Vancouver Province says 'his boldness as a writer demands attention.'

Jack has played across Canada and the US. He has played with the likes of Ron Sexsmith, Fred Eaglesmith, Tom Wilson(ex-Junkhouse) and John Mann.