13 Engines Was A Canadian Rock Band In The 1990s. Formed In 1985 As The Ikons The Band Consisted Of Four York University Students -- Vocalist John Critchley Guitarist Mike Robbins Bassist Jim Hughes And Drummer Grant Ethier. They Released A Self-Titled Independent Cassette In 1986 Before Changing Their Name To 13 Engines. The Name Was A Reference To The Automobile Industry In Windsor Ontario And Detroit Michigan Which Were The First Two Markets To Embrace The Band.