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The Heights were a Winnipeg, Manitoba neo-soul, R&B, funk, and progressive rock group formed by three longtime local musicians: Scott Malcolmson, Eli Matas, and Sam Little. After nearly a decade of collaboration across musical projects and jam sessions, Malcolmson, formerly of The Afterparty, Matas, formerly of None the Wiser, and Little, formerly of Hollerin’ Pines, came together to create a groove-driven band built around rhythmic interplay, melodic hooks, and a strong live-performance feel.

Their self-titled five-song debut EP was released in 2016, with a launch at the Pyramid Cabaret in Winnipeg on June 11. The recording reflected the band’s blend of danceable rhythms, polished songwriting, and jazz-funk influences, drawing comparisons in local press to artists such as Jamiroquai, Incognito, and the early soulful work of John Mayer. The EP highlighted Malcolmson’s lead vocals and guitar, Little’s bass and backing vocals, and Matas’s drums and backing vocals, with Will Neufeld featured on keyboards. Guest contributions included saxophone by Moe Yusim, vocals by The Sweet Alibi, guitar by Joey Landreth, and congas and drum programming by Mike de Groot.

Songs such as ‘Sweater Season’ captured the group’s accessible, upbeat side, combining keys, backing vocals, percussion, and a warm funk-pop feel. Other tracks, including ‘A Touch of Grace,’ gave the band room to stretch instrumentally while maintaining the smooth, polished character of the EP. Though brief, The Heights introduced a mature Winnipeg group rooted in local musicianship, groove-based arrangements, and a crossover sound that connected soul, pop, funk, and rock.

-Robert Williston