54-40

In 1980, 54-40 emerged from the Vancouver punk scene with a clearly defined vision: write great songs, play live, and never look back. They've stayed true to that vision for 25 years with few lineup changes, while building a catalogue of innovative music that not only displays their folk and punk roots, but also includes radio hits like "Ocean Pearl" and "Radio Luv Song."

Taking their name from U.S. President James K. Polk's famous campaign slogan "54-40 or Fight!" 54-40 has (appropriately) not merely endured, but also bucked rock 'n' roll trends. An indie inspiration to more bands than we could possibly list here, the quartet can be trusted to counter such radio-friendly rockers as "Easy to Love" with country-tinged numbers like "Angel in My Bed."

54-40's early days in the '80s Vancouver scene — alongside Grapes of Wrath, Bolero Lava, and others — revealed their shared ideals with today's indie-rock groups. Those ideals rang loud and clear, thanks to a sound that helped to set the standard for modern-rock radio. Check out the stone-solid groove of "(Jamming With) Lawrence" and the track that started the 54-40 buzz, "Set the Fire."

Schoolmates Neil Osbourne (guitar/vocals) and Brad Merritt (bass) have come a long way since 54-40's inception in 1980. Yet they're still every bit as loyal to their Vancouver roots — "Smilin' Buddah Cabaret" is a legendary hometown venue — and show no signs of slowing down with passing the years. And why should they? With a fan base that includes superstars Hootie & the Blowfish (who said they would drive hours to see 54-40 play, and covered "I Go Blind"), the group behind Canadian rock classics like "Baby Ran" has only gotten better with age.