After toiling in the trenches of the Vancouver music scene for the past decade, DominiqueFricot is finally starting to hit his stride. With his commanding stage presence, unrivaledsongwriting skill and ear for creating pure pop masterpieces, Dominique owns the stage withhis rich baritone and his emotive fusion of rock, soul, folk and jazz. Don't believe me? JohnLucas of the Georgia Straight says: “Fricot’s plaintive vocals and knack for melody invitecomparisons to Chris Martin and Adam Duritz". Legendary local producer Jeff Dawson hascalled him 'the new Neil Diamond'.He's got the credentials to go along with the musical chops as well, having toured with bandsacross Canada for several years. Getting his start as head songwriter and frontman for thealternative rock group The Painted Birds, Dom crisscrossed the continent multiple times. Theband had the distinction of being selected for the 2009 Peak Performance Project top 20,taking part in an intensive week long workshop designed to hone their skills as musicians. ThePainted Birds also showcased at several renowned festivals including Canadian Music Week,NXNE, the Western Canadian Music Awards, Sled Island, JunoFest and the world famousSouth by South West festival in Austin, Texas.After The Painted Birds decided to go their separate ways, Dom took a few months off forsome personal time and self-reflection, debating whether he could continue on his own.Luckily for us, he couldn't resist the call of the stage and pressed on, playing live showsaround Western Canada, building a rabid fanbase on the strength of his performances. Afterexperiencing a particularly painful breakup (can anyone say 'male Adele'?), he channeled hisheartbreak and loss into his music, creating the songs that would lay the foundation for hisnext two EPs (2011's 'The Head and the Heart', and the forthcoming 'If Baby Could Walk').The songs run the gamut from breezy, Jack Johnson-esque pop to haunting piano balladsthat wouldn't sound out of place on a Coldplay album, and perfectly encapsulate the highsand lows of falling in and losing love.Whatever you call him, the comparisons don't do Dom justice. He's a true original, a one of akind talent, and a rapidly rising star. Don't miss his unique blend of charm, stage domination,and relatable, heartfelt music when he tours in support of the new EP If Baby Could Walkstarting May of 2012.