If you’ve been hanging around here for the last few months, chances are you’ve heard the name Wet Pancakes. With a name that raises eyebrows, Wet Pancakes have quickly become a local favorite band in Guelph. Blending pop and rock with an anything-goes attitude, this five-piece cover band brings big energy and big vibes to every stage they hit.

We caught up with the band Michaela Todd, the lead vocalist to talk about their origin story (spoiler: it starts at Pablo’s with a few pints), what makes Guelph’s music scene so special, and what’s coming next for the group. Wet Pancakes are only just getting started and we can’t wait to see what’s coming next.

Who are the Wet Pancakes and how did you come to be?

Michaela Todd (lead vocals), Kieran Campbell (lead guitar), Sean Castillo (rhythm guitar and vocals), Ben Bock (bass guitar) and Mitchell Staffen (drums). We are a cover band that enjoys experimenting with all genres, but mostly pop and rock. The Wet Pancakes formed very unexpectedly. It started as an idea that came to us one night while sitting at a table in Pablo’s, all drunk of course. This was before Kieran was in the picture. I (Michaela) had a solo gig randomly a couple months later and asked Sean and Ben to play with me. After the gig they looked at me and asked if we should make this a ‘thing’. We got Mitchell on board that same week. Eventually Sean and Ben introduced us to Kieran. All we had to say to him was “wanna be in our band?”, to which he said “sure”. We had a gig booked three weeks later in October 2024.

What has been the best part about being part of the local music scene in Guelph?

For us it’s definitely about seeing how much the community appreciates music in this city. We have played Jimmy Jazz three times now, and each time the crowd is amazing! People go out of their way here to promote and support local musicians which definitely helps keep us motivated.

Most memorable show to date?

Our most memorable show to date is probably our last show at Jimmy Jazz on February 1, 2025. We played alongside other local bands including Millhowse, Sugar Report and Maya Blue. It was for sure the most lively crowd we’ve seen at a show. I (Michaela) had someone try to grab my mic stand which made me feel like a real rock star. It was fucking sick! The crowd was dancing, jumping and singing along. What more can you ask for?

What are your plans for next year?

As of right now, we are working towards playing gigs outside of the city. Music is something that deserves to be shared and we would love to share what we do with the world outside of Guelph. We should probably also consider a tiktok account but a few of the band members may give me a couple eye rolls for that one.

Where can fans find more of your music?

We are playing Gain Fest April 25th at Red Papaya. You can also follow us on instagram! That’s where we make posts about upcoming shows and other moist breakfast food endeavors. https://www.instagram.com/wet.pancakes.music/