Born and raised in Mossman, Australia, Mikhail Laxton now calls Ottawa, Canada home. The singer-songwriter moved here after marrying his wife Leah, three years ago.
Mikhail found classic rock at the age of 10. He started out playing the drums before taking to the guitar. He met his wife while busking at a farmer's market in Brisbane. Involved in mentoring young local singer/songwriters, he sought to give back to the community. It was then that he got the opportunity to perform on Australia's The Voice. Laxton made it to the Super Battle round. He was encouraged by Voice judge, Jessie J, to keep working on his original material.
Canada has been good for Mikhail Laxton. He quickly found a writing partner in Maia Davies. Maia is well known for her co-writes with Jill Barber, Serena Ryder and others, as well as her music and with her former band, Ladies of the Canyon. Davies agreed to produce Laxton's upcoming album Real, and introduced him to her business partner, multi-award winner Gavin Brown (Billy Talent, Barenaked Ladies). Brown joined the project doing a bit of co-writing and production on some tracks.
Together, the songs were fleshed out in arrangements that combine folk, R&B, rock, pop and blues, always focusing on Laxton's extraordinary voice. Real, Laxton's debut album, delivers an personal expression of the singer.
"It draws inspiration from the power of love as an extension of who he is; honest, humble and soulful."
Hold On, marks his first release since signing with Toronto-based indie imprint Acronym Records. It's a soulful pop song that delivers a positive message, sweet and smooth vocals, and it sets Laxton up for success.
The video concept and creation for Hold On was done by director/animator/illustrator Tom Gravestock.
Mikhail Laxton - Hold On
"Hold On is about when the anxieties within you build up to a point where you're about to break; you're ready to quit on being the good guy and just lose it," says Laxton. "But you have that person and just by their presence, their spirit and their love, they're able to remind you exactly why you need to hold on to the good inside of you and to always do what is right. For me, that person is my wife, and I hope this song reminds you of who that person is for you."
Cover Art by: John Wellman
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