Inuvik (Aug 11/06) - After three decades of playing music all over the country, Ra McGuire and Trooper proved to Inuvik once again that they really are troopers.

The band stopped in Inuvik last week during a nation-wide summer tour, making this its second appearance since 2002.

"We're constantly touring the country," said McGuire before their second night, playing to a sold out crowd at the Mad Trapper.

"I like Inuvik, the people are great, and the town has improved too," said McGuire.

Since his initial visit four-years-ago, McGuire said he has noticed positive changes in the town's appearance.

"Well, the first thing I noticed was the new Mackenzie hotel," said McGuire.

Trooper was started by McGuire and guitarist Brian Smith, or 'Smitty' as he is called as by the guys in the crew.

"I've known Smitty since we were 16, so we grew up together," said McGuire of the band's origin.

In 1975 the band recorded their first album as Trooper, and have been busy on the road since.

"There is no city, village or town in Canada that we haven't seen," said McGuire.

The first night at the bar saw the band start their set off with 'Here for a good time' and hit all their trademark singles; 'Raise a Little Hell' and 'the Boys in the Bright White Sports Car'. Younger fans of the band were on the dance floor all night, which is something that McGuire has noticed occurring more often over the years.

"It's great to see the young people right up in the front, they know the words for the bigger songs which is fun," he said.

The band's energy comes from the crowd and their reactions, said McGuire.

"We send out a vibe from the stage, and it comes back multiplied by the people in the audience," said McGuire.

Playing gigs like the Trapper are favoured by McGuire, who sees the shows as more of an intimate event.

"It's like playing at a house party," he said.

"The room is smaller, the people are closer and you can hear them."

McGuire said the atmosphere is intense, and he tries to keep the pace with the crowds at smaller venues.

"The only thing is that I can't be as drunk as them," he said with a chuckle.

"I have to stay professional, and keep it together."

The band stayed on the bar floor after their show to sign autographs and talk with the fans.