The Gumboots, from Yellowknife, first formed in 1984 as a folk group that performed traditional Canadian folk songs. Over the years the members of the group have changed and the band began writing and performing original songs about the north. Founding member Bill Gilday is still the group's musical leader and chief songwriter. Their first CD, Spirit of the North, is a diverse collection of songs about Canada. The styles range from the a cappella opener, "The Mouth of the Peel," about a Dene storyteller with a gift of gab, to barbershop quartet-like songs like "The Flow'r Of Old Fort Rae," a love song. "Goin' Out in Style" is a song on an environmental theme; "Martha" is a song in remembrance of Martha Oovayuk who died when she lost her way in a fierce Arctic storm and wandered from the shelter of her home and the community. Their second CD, Northern Tracks follows in a similar vein, with songs such as "Willy and the Bandits," "Yellowknife Tonight," and "Nancy McKenzie's Lament." Gumboots, on these two albums, include Bill Gilday, Bill Stephen, John Bunge, Bob MacQuarrie, Dan Lee, Chris Philpotts, Rich Hintz, and Chic Callas.

Spirit of the North
1992 Gumboots (no catalogue number)

The Mouth of the Peel; The Bay Boys; The Flow'r of Old Fort Rae; Martha; Goin' Out in Style; Abadoo; Long Johns; The Resurrection of Billy Adamache; The Feelin' Is There; Spirit of the North; Doctor John Rae; 1789--Journey to the Sea; New Day Dawning 46:54

Northern Tracks
1994 Gumboots (GBTD 7002)

Willy and the Bandits; The Voyagers; You're There; Clean up the Mess; Hay River Bombardier Run; Fly like an Eagle; Nancy McKenzie's Lament; Yellowknife Tonight; Wop May; Dance Grandfather; Song for the Sailors; Farewell 49:08