Based in Vancouver, the group initially consisted solely of Thomson but has come to include other musicians, notably singer Allison Shevernoha.
[1] Working with engineer Mike Rogerson, Thomson wrote and recorded the ten tracks by himself, playing all the instruments and even using some unusual objects to make his music like a toaster oven.
The album is mainly instrumental consisting of spacey synths which are grounded by Thomson’s drum beats, which he emphasizes are made with a real kit.
After releasing Wonderment The Hermit went on tour featuring Thomson on drums, Jon Frederiksen on bass, Robb Mitchell on keyboard, and Allison Shevernoha on vocals.
Upon returning home The Hermit continued performing, and had the opportunity to play shows with more prominent acts like Canadian indie rockers Apostle of Hustle and New York’s Ivy.
For The Hermit’s second album Wonderment Thomson collaborated with a variety of vocalists including Martina Sorbara of the Britain-based electropop group Dragonette, Allison Shevernoha of the Winnipeg indie pop band Paper Moon, C.R.
[4] The Hermit is currently composed of Hamish Thomson on drums, Robb Mitchell on keyboard, Jon Frederiksen on bass, and Duane Murrin on guitar.