We Are Busy Bodies is proud to announce Covered, a new compilation album honouring the legacy of legendary Canadian experimentalist Nash the Slash. Curated by musician, educator, and long-time Nash collaborator Richard Marsella, the release gathers an eclectic group of artists from around the world to reinterpret, reimagine, and celebrate the singular vision of one of Canada’s most unconventional musical pioneers.
Nash the Slash—born Jeff Plewman—stood alone in the Canadian music landscape. Known for his electric violin, mandolin, haunting synths, and trademark mummy-like stage attire, Nash became a cult icon whose influence extended far beyond Canadian borders. His genre-defying approach—part art-punk, part avant-garde, part cinematic minimalism—left an indelible mark on artists working in experimental, electronic, industrial, prog, and underground rock. From his early days with FM to his boundary-breaking solo work, Nash championed independence, integrity, and fearless weirdness long before these values became a rallying cry for DIY musicians everywhere.
“When I learned that Side Three Media were working on the documentary film Nash the Slash Rises Again!, it inspired me to make a complimentary tribute album with an eclectic group of musicians from around the world,” says Marsella. “I love the artistry and interpretations of Nash’s music reflected on this compilation. It takes Nash and rethinks his original vision. Buckle up: this recording honours one of the great underground Canadian innovators, who has always been a great source of inspiration for so many of us.”
Marsella’s connection to Nash runs deep. “I had the honour of working with Nash a few times in my career,” he continues, “most notably as a special guest artist in my Parade of Noises in 2002, where we played Musical Red Rover with a group of 700 grade four students in my hometown of Brampton, Ontario. ‘Red Rover, Red Rover… we call Nash the Slash over…’ are words we’ll never forget. Nash was an artist I shall never forget—always pushing the boundaries and just going for it.”
Covered features a bold lineup of contributors, including Renaldo M (Brian Poole of Renaldo & The Loaf), Ian Blurton, Eiyn Sof, and many other world-class experimental artists—each offering a unique interpretation that expands Nash’s sonic universe while remaining rooted in his unmistakable creative spirit.
“Nash opened my mind to releasing your own music, carving your own path and letting your freak flag fly. For that, I am forever grateful,” states Ian Blurton. His reinterpretation of ‘Phasors on Stun’ is featured on the album.
Covered stands as both a celebration and a continuation of Nash the Slash’s legacy—an artist who refused to compromise, who championed experimentation, and who inspired generations of musicians to embrace the strange, the dramatic, and the uncompromisingly original.
