The Unfortunates were a high energy rock band from Edmonton, Alberta. Founded by vocalist/guitarist Tanner Gordon and bassist Tim Plamondon, the duo instantly formed a tight musical chemistry that evolved beyond folk roots. Drummer Brendan McGonigle was added to create the original inception of the band. Shortly before releasing their first album, ‘Bryce Thornton” was added on guitar to form the first full rendition of the band.

In 2010 the band released their first collective effort "Calm down this is only the end". The album featured the singles "Losing you" and "Calm down", and was well received by the public. 19 months later, the band released their acclaimed record "We talked of shadows", and received "Band of the month" honours from local radio station Sonic 102.9. This album produced the hit song "Hurt no more", which was given regular radio play for the following year, as well as thousands of views on YouTube. 

2014 brought a new album, Indie Films, a new member, guitarist Nathan Stamhuis, and a name change to the group, who would henceforth be known solely as "The Unfortunates".  Indie films was received as a worthy follow up to the previous 2011 album, producing the single "Talk show host" and the hit "Brick by brick". The band also embarked on an ambitious cross Canada tour, performing 12 shows in 14 days across 9 urban centres. 

The band immediately began writing for another album, while in the meantime, Bryce Thornton was replaced by guitarist in Leo Contessa, creating a different sound for the band. Shortly after this addition the band played it's 200th show and continued to develop into one of the premier live bands in Alberta. The bands final self titled ablum was released June 22, 2018 winning “Album of the Year” at the W.A.M Music Awards.

On November 18, 2022 the band played their final show. Playing material spanning their entire catalogue and 13 year career. All 6 members performed that night and the final concert was recorded and released in 2023 as a full length music documentary “Calm Down This Is Only The End: The Unfortunates Farewell Story”

Members:

Tanner Gordon-Lead Vocals
Tim Plamondon-Bass
Brendan McGonigle-Drums
Bryce Thornton
Leo Contessa-Lead Guitar
Nathan Stamhuis- Rhythm Guitar