Songs In The Valley

Windborn: What lies beneath

Posted on July 24, 2014 by heatheradamson

Jeff Pike is one special artist. Performing and recording as Windborn for over five years, he continues to take his sound to new places, experimenting with instruments and techniques, and challenging every rule there is when it comes to creating beautiful sounding music.

To fully appreciate the artist, you need only to learn of the incredible person he is, especially to this venue.

Jeff spent the week leading up to the night’s show building a new roof for Serenity owner Shirley de Vooght. That’s right, he took a break from touring to spend five very hot days dedicating his time (and tapping into his past life as a carpenter) to provide this act of service to a woman that has become family and a venue that has become a home.

Jeff also provided the idea and development of the Kickstarter campaign for Serenity that exceeded its fundraising goal by over $1000.00 and allowed the roof renovation to happen.

Not only that, but at the end of the job, Jeff chose to perform a free show to celebrate. The generosity and good nature behind this artist is remarkable. Shirley herself speaks of him often and sings his praises to anyone who will listen, he truly has her heart.

Windborn is a regular feature on the Serenity schedule, playing multiple shows here a year. Not only did he win over Shirley many years ago, he has done the same with every Serenity audience member to date. Whether he is playing with accompanying musicians, such as his previous regular tour mate Nils Loewen on cello, or sticking to his roots of playing solo (as he is touring these days), Windborn is more than meets the initial eye.

Through the use of live-looping, an amped guitar, kick drum and creative percussion-based combinations, Windborn provides a show that is multi-dimensional and awe-inspiring.

No word of a lie, for our appreciative crowd, he played for over 2 hours without a break, and if it hadn’t been for the twilight mosquitos causing a stir, he likely would have gone longer.

With a stage presence that puts everyone at ease, and an ability to make strangers feel like friends, Windborn has an ethereal style that is just magic.

He is an artist who lives for music and has dedicated his entire life to pursuing its creation. With his love, they live on the road in a different place almost every night, exploring the country in their quest to share his music and live simply and gratefully. To look at their lives from the outside is like admiring a beautiful painting, it fills you with wonder and inspiration. Of course, the reality likely comes with its own set of challenges, but for those who live within the walls of steady salaries, mortgages, and retirement savings plans, taking the time to appreciate the few who take risks in order to follow their passion is an important thing to do to put life in perspective.

If you let it, the music of Windborn will invite you into the soul of an artist to hear what makes his heart beat; are you listening?

Windborn performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on July 18, 2014.

For music (including free downloads), videos, bio and more, visit http://www.windborn.ca

Windborn is playing at Serenity’s 1st Annual Harvest Music Festival September 5-7, 2014. Early bird festival passes are still available for the weekend (price includes camping on the Serenity acreage)!

Photos courtesy of Steve Mechem and Windborn.

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Prairie Dance Club

Posted on July 21, 2014 by heatheradamson

To dance is to feel alive.

Prairie Dance Club came to us on a warm July night. With the acreage brimming with children, and a full moon rising over the valley, it was a performance filled with an energy that radiated joy among us.

Serenity owner Shirley deVooght had been working on booking the band here for years. This was a long time coming.

Based out of Langley, BC, tonight the band consisted of Jason Davies (vocals, guitars), Jeremy Friesen (bass, background vocals), Dan Kim (guitars) and Ryan Wylie (drums). It was Ryan’s first night playing a show with the band. An old friend of many of the members, Ryan filled in graciously at the last minute to allow this show to happen and he nailed it.

Barefoot on stage, the guys played their hearts out to a crowd who ate it all up. This audience was ready to dance and the band gave them what they came for.

Their most recent EP “Pretty Things” (2013) is one of the tightest collections of tracks I have heard in a while and the 5 songs were standouts from the night’s show. The album also has the reputation as being one of the last recordings at the historic Hipposonic (Mushroom) Studios on West 6th Avenue in Vancouver before it closed its doors last March.

From “Thunder Rd. 2,” a great anthem-like tune that was beyond fitting for our backroad venue with a chorus that echoes Take me out into the mountains and set me free; to “Hold Me to the Fire,” an emotionally weighted song that they delivered in one of their strongest performances of the night.

Their finale was a cover of Neil Young’s “Cinnamon Girl.” They killed it. Shirley’s lifelong friend and Serenity mainstay Lizzy Hopson Cline personally thanked the band afterwards for playing her favourite Neil Young song saying “No one ever plays Cinnamon Girl and does it well, and you did!”

Unfortunately for us, the band had to pack up immediately following the show to drive home, but this is their reality of having other careers and families waiting for them; touring doesn’t come with the same ease as it once did. At this stage in the game, their music is not their full time focus, but has needed to share a seat with their secure day jobs that are necessary for their growing families, with guitarist Dan Kim becoming a dad for the third time just a few weeks ago.

Listening to their perspectives as fathers and husbands was enlightening. Admitting this show had forced them to come out of relative hibernation, they are starting to realize how their priorities have changed, even as it relates to the music they want to create. “Jason and I have been doing a lot of talking,” said Jeremy, “we just aren’t sure about where the future of this band is headed right now.” Furthermore, he explains, “It’s almost like we are feeling a strong need to play harder rock. There is this indie-pop sound that is everywhere right now; it seems to be the only thing that is booking, atleast in Vancouver. We don’t want to do that, we want to play harder, we just want to rebel against everything.” I joked whether this need was being fuelled by their day to day lives of changing diapers and driving kids to soccer practice, which they chuckled at but interestingly enough didn’t refute. Not that I blame them. As a mother of 2 children under 6, I can relate.

As for their writing process, Jason is the primary songwriter, with Jeremy helping to develop the musical elements along with the rest of the band. In terms of current inspirations, Jason has a 6 year old daughter who he mentioned many times throughout the night, likely because the 20 plus children dancing back and forth in front of the stage acted as a constant reminder.

A standout moment of the night was when he cued up their song “City in the Country,” a track Jason wrote about not knowing how to explain to his daughter why all the trees where they played down the street were cut down to build new condominiums. Ironically, they had been reading Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” at the time (if you don’t know it, it’s worth the read, especially for all you environmentalists out there). As we stood there looking out over an endless scene of horse pasture, forest, mountains and river, it was difficult to relate to the environment he described, yet there was empathy among us for those who do not have the opportunity to be constantly surrounded by such natural beauty.

All in all, Prairie Dance Club are a group of extremely talented, kind hearted men who haven’t given up on their dream and passion for creating music, even when the demands of life may stand in their way. Whether it be with this band, or an entirely new path in music for each of them, we wish them luck finding their way.

Prairie Dance Club performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on July 12, 2014.

Visit their website for links to music downloads, their bio and more at http://www.prairiedanceclub.com

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Helen Knight: An artist and woman to celebrate

Posted on July 17, 2014 by heatheradamson

I have admired Helen Knight at a distance for a long time. She served as a Director on the Board where I work for many years and her art is featured in every room of my office building, a gift she provided when we opened our facility. Most recently I have had the opportunity of getting to know Helen personally, including spending time at her home and enjoying in her company. Her youthful spirit, passion for life and creative energy is contagious. I know this is a diversion from my focus on artists and their music at Serenity, but I couldn’t help but share the story of this beautiful woman and her art. This is for Helen.

Raised in the Peace River country of Northern Alberta in the small town of La Glace during the Depression, Helen Knight was raised among 7 siblings by her Russian Mennonite immigrant parents. Learning to live off the land from her homesteading parents, Helen had an immediate connection with the Earth and its gifts from birth. “I know that when I grew up I was aware of the Earth and life on Earth; the creatures and the plants, the flowers and everything like that. We always gardened, we grew all our own food, that’s how I grew up.”

Helen spent over 30 years as a teacher, including working as a special needs educator. During her time working at an institution on the lower mainland, she met her husband Art Knight, a psychiatric nurse. Helen retired from teaching when her husband became ill in order to care for him full time. Following the loss of her husband in 1986, Helen turned to her love of nature and made a career change. She followed her passion to the North Thompson valley where she was hired as a Naturalist for Wells Gray Park in 1988. Between 1988-2000, Helen worked for Wells Gray Park in a variety of roles, including as an educator and writer for the Park Rangers. Her time living and working in Wells Gray Park allowed her to extensively pursue her interests including birding and hiking, and her appreciation for nature grew to new depths. “I have always been a naturalist with a love of the outdoors,” Helen explains, “even as a young child I knew where all the bird’s nests were, when the first robin appeared and the when first crocus bloomed. Nature has always been in my heart.”

Throughout her life, Helen had a love of art inside of her. During her career as a teacher, she was very creative and spent a lot time in photography and embroidery work, “That’s how I got my creative juices going,” she recalls. However, it was not until her friend and eventual mentor Joan Moffat came for a visit and brought paints, paper and brushes with her that Helen discovered her passion and talent for painting.

At the age of 64, Helen Knight became an artist. It took her two years to begin publicly showing her paintings to others. Almost 20 years later, her home is now her gallery, with her work displayed in every room.

Her medium of choice is acrylic, however, she has also dabbled in water colour and oil pastels in the past. For Helen, she feels acrylic paint suits her personality as she explains, “Acrylic works for me because it’s so fast. I am a really fast painter. I may spend a long time wondering what I’m going to do and working up a painting in my mind, and then all of a sudden (when she begins painting), half an hour later it’s done!” Admitting it is in her nature to be fast and not have to plan ahead or wait for paint to dry, working with acrylic paint definitely suits her needs as an artist.

Helen is inspired by her immediate natural surroundings. “My subject matter has followed a natural history theme. I am also very connected to the seasons,” she says. Her garden and riverside property provide endless amounts of subject matter to pull from for her art. Poppies are her true love (you would understand why if you take a visit to her backyard garden), and she is in the process of thinking about starting a poppy series that will surely be something to marvel. Currently, she is leaning more towards impressionism in her style. “I don’t want a picture perfect poppy, I want an impressionist one.” She also makes scrapbooks where she collects images of art that speak to her. “I feel like they informally inform my own art,” she muses.

When asked what advice she would give to children wanting to purse painting, Helen clearly recalls the best quote she ever read about creating art, “Paint what you love.” She also remembers the initial advice she received from her friend and mentor Joan, “She told me that by the time we saw each other again I needed to draw or sketch one hundred items. It didn’t matter what they were or how complicated they were or what I used, I just had to get out a sketchbook. By the end of that time I knew I could draw.” Upon reflection, Helen has come to realize that since she has become more public with her art, she is also inspired by the people who like and enjoy her paintings, “It’s kind of like an exchange of love. It’s a gift.”

You can view Helen’s art in Clearwater BC at her personal home gallery; Yellowhead Community Services (612 Park Drive); and Forest House Wellness Centre (717 Clearwater Village Road). She continues to paint regularly in her home-based studio.

Helen Knight’s art is available. She welcomes anyone who has an emotional interest in her work to contact her directly.

Special note: Helen has been selected as the feature artist at this year’s Clearwater Children’s Art Festival on August 6, 2014, 10am-3pm at the Dutch Lake Community Centre. A selection of her work will be displayed and she will be on hand to meet families and answer questions. Multiple local artists will be providing art experiences for children of all ages throughout the day.

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Rolla Olak & Friends: Rocky Mountain High Tour

Posted on July 15, 2014 by heatheradamson

When Rolla Olak, Andy Bishop (White Ash Falls), Todd Menzies and Nick Petrowich (Willhorse) show up, be ready to have your expectations met.

These guys are the real deal in more ways than one. White Ash Falls opened the show with a primarily solo-acoustic set that took the audience by surprise, as many had come expecting Rolla with a full band right out of the gates. But it was a pleasant shock, as he mellowed the crowd sitting on the grass basking in the evening sun. His gentle soul serenaded us with his folk tunes that are so clearly close to his heart. Andy is quite the musical chameleon and has achieved much success in multiple bands over the last decade (Yukon Blonde; Red Cedar; Twin Rivers – as well as guest appearances in many others); however embarking on his collaborative project White Ash Falls a few years ago has allowed him to showcase his maturity and individuality as a songwriter. When the guys joined him for his last few songs to amp things up, his ability to switch gears on a dime and rock it out was impressive, and it was obvious we were in store for quite the night.

The man of the hour was indeed Rolla Olak. His timeless sound is not only a throwback to the early Dylan/Young era, it easily resonates in the here and now. Rolla has this specific air about him that creates nostalgia for what was, and a longing for what could be.

Joined by Bishop on guitar and harmonica, Todd Menzies on bass and Nick Petrowich on drums, this foursome tore it up as they dug deep into Rolla’s repertoire of both hard-hitting tunes and soft-hearted melodies.

It was a welcomed return for Rolla, Todd and Nick who played here for the first time on their Winter Wolfpack Tour back in December with the rest of Willhorse. There was no question that we were going to see them again. The moment they stepped foot on the property it was as if a part of them belonged here, an instinct I’d had about them when we first started insisting they find their way to us down a lonely dirt road.

There are all types of artists and musicians that visit the venue and we, the audience, are thankful to be witness to each of their unique talents and qualities. But once in awhile you happen upon a soul or two who inhabit something that aligns closely with the energy and dream that venue owner Shirley deVooght has worked so hard to cultivate and protect. These guys got it and embraced it instantly, and have been incredible advocates for Shirley and the venue ever since.

It was Andy’s first visit to the acreage, and he fit in like an old hat. Rolla and Andy have known each other for many years as songwriters on the west coast, so to have them share in each other’s music and friendship in this setting was a gift to be a part of. It remains staggering that Rolla and Willhorse only met a year ago through the Peak Performance Project. With that experience tucked away in the rear view mirror, their relationship is rock solid, with a chemistry that presents as if they have been playing and touring together since day one.

The thing that stands out about every one of these long-haired, ripped-jean-wearing men who inhabit a natural swagger most would kill for is that they are completely unaware of how appealing they are. Each of them are truly unaffected by the relative success they have achieved thus far in their careers, and genuinely care about making quality, honest music that echoes the same vibe they carry off the stage. They have this instant chill that reverberates to everyone around them, including honest moments of humour and joy that highlight their mutual adoration and respect for one another, both in creating music and simply in shared conversation.

When I first met Todd Menzies, he made a comment about Rolla that went something like this, “I’ve known a lot of great musicians over the years, but Rolla is one of the few true artists out there.” He was right, but he fell short of including himself. Each of these men exudes an artistic bone that is not all together as common as you may think. It is incredibly challenging in this day and age to be genuine. With social media taunting their every move and a fan base that is itching for instant gratification, the artist is no longer answering to “the man,” they now have to answer to the masses. Certain personalities can weather this better than others, and have the ability to stay cocooned within their own motivations and inspirations for the creative process. These few give the impression that they stick to their guns amid mounting pressures in an ever changing industry that seems to throw a new iron in the fire to chase after at every turn.

Amid their ideals, there will always be the temptation of writing that elusive song that hits the pulse of popular culture to set them up for life. As the guys themselves explained, touring on the independent circuit can be grueling and not all together rewarding. Venues like Serenity are few and far between where they get home cooked meals, individual beds, and are welcomed in to a home to call their own where there is a deep respect and appreciation for not only their music, but for each individual who has created it.

Through these trials, they each display an authenticity that shines through. What we experienced with them was the perfect marriage between music and venue, where the audience was given the space to just be, and time slowed down to the point where you could forget about it all together.

After the official show had ended, the bonfire was lit and the four of them played into the night under a near full moon. As the fire crackled in the background, people of all ages came together amid the stars; some danced, some sat back and took it all in. Somehow, the music and surroundings collided as minutes became hours and time melted away. We can only await their return until we can erase time once again.

Rolla Olak and friends performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on July 10, 2014.

Rolla’s Rocky Mountain High Tour continues all summer long across BC and Alberta. Visit his website at www.rollaolak.com for tour dates and locations, as well as links to music and more.

Visit White Ash Falls’ website at www.whiteashfalls.com for music, bio and more.

Fingers crossed the guys make it back here in September to celebrate the 1st Annual Harvest Music Festival, Sept. 5-7, 2014. Rolla Olak is already booked as a headliner for 2015!

Photos courtesy of Google Images and Serenity Music.

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Greg Drummond on the big stage

Posted on June 18, 2014 by heatheradamson

Singing in the rain, just singing in the rain, what a glorious feelin’, I’m happy again. ~ Gene Kelly

When Greg Drummond booked his outdoor show here back in the fall, all hopes were for a sunny day. But the weather does what it will, and on this night it was willed to rain. People rallied, snuggled together under tarps and Greg and the band took to the stage like pros. Thankfully, the children were the ones who taught all the adults how not to sweat the small stuff. Watching the little ones dance in the rain to Greg’s infectious sound brought a sense of joy that caught on like wild fire. By the end of the first set, most were up on their feet, and when Greg and the band returned to the stage after the mid-break, the field was alive with a sense of youthfulness as people kicked off their shoes to feel the wet grass beneath their feet.

Greg himself came off the covered stage multiple times to immerse himself (and his guitar) in the evening showers. A humble stage man, he possesses a warmth that earns him love from new audiences everywhere. His music crosses multiple genres and in doing so appeals to all demographics. Whether you are 17 or 70, Greg’s songs have something for everyone. He opened the show with “Walking Man,” the title track off his debut album that has gotten him many accolades and exposure in his young career. The song is incredibly catchy and tells the story of leaving the financial security and comforts of a stable career to follow his passion as a musician. I find myself humming or singing it often around the house, it’s a song that easily finds its way into your head. Of the many local teenagers in the audience, a few mentioned to me how the song made them think about the decisions they were facing as they approached high school graduation. Interestingly enough, my dad who has been retired for years was also at the show, and the next morning he spoke to me about how much that particular song stuck with him.

This show was the third time Greg Drummond has played at Serenity. As he has been evolving as an artist, so too has the venue. His first show here a few years ago occurred with a small crowd in Shirley’s living room. This past fall he returned to the house and carried the concert on into the night with a full out jam with the band that a lucky few had the benefit of baring witness to. This time, Greg and the band played the big stage out on the acreage. Considering it was pouring rain at an outdoor concert on the outskirts of a small rural community, it is safe to say the show was a success. The truth is whether you have 50 people or 500 at a concert, it is the energy of those that show up that makes it, and the Serenity audience is always ready to take in the music and translate it into a true experience. Thankfully, the music of Greg Drummond makes that rather easy.

The folk essence and east-meets-west coast elements to his sound provides a nice variety; enchanting when it slows down and full of fun when he kicks it up inspiring you to get out of your seat and move. The smooth yet gritty quality to his vocals is intoxicating, helping to fulfill his duty of capturing and holding the attention of an audience with ease. The musicians he surrounds himself don’t hurt his cause either.

Playing with Michael Lothian, Mike Meroniuk, Alanna Pearce and Marshall Hunt for a few years, they have developed a great friendship and support for Greg’s vision. Marshall recently left on a hiatus with hopes to return, but in the meantime Greg recently found another stand up bass player whose name also starts with M (shout out to Marcus, wish you could have been here) and the word on the street is he is Marshall’s doppelganger. Weirder things have happened.

Through continued hard work and dedication, Greg has been achieving an increasing amount of success as of late. He was recently awarded a $21,000 grant from FACTOR (The Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings), providing him with funds to record, produce, promote and distribute his second full length album. The album will be partly recorded at Monarch Studios in Vancouver, with plans to complete the recordings at a home-based studio on Gambier Island in Greg’s family cabin. Talk about creative inspiration.

One thing is for sure, with songs that have you singing along within seconds, and a smile that can make your heart skip a beat, Greg Drummond easily appeals to today’s youth while simultaneously making a fan out of mom and dad.

Highlights:
Heaven or Hell: Personal favourite track off the album that translated beautifully in the picturesque surroundings. Kudos to Michael on keys.
The Sweet Sound: Fun tune that instantly got the crowd off their feet dancing.
Stand: Perfect song to close out the show, with Greg down off the stage standing on a chair and leading the crowd in a full blown sing-a-long; a memory I will hold dear with each subsequent listen of his album.

Greg Drummond performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, June 14, 2014.

Stay tuned for his sophomore album due late Fall 2014.

For show dates, music downloads, links to his facebook page and more, visit his website at http://www.gregdrummond.com

Greg Drummond and his band are playing Serenity’s 1st Annual Harvest Music Fest, September 5-7, 2014.

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Cod Gone Wild release new album “Battered & Fried”

Posted on May 18, 2014 by heatheradamson

It has been two weeks since I sat in the audience at Serenity Performing Arts Centre to watch Cod Gone Wild perform their newly released album “Battered & Fried.” This piece has been delayed due to technical difficulties, but although time has passed since their show, the impression left by these four musicians and their dynamic talent has remained.

It was my second time seeing Cod Gone Wild perform at Serenity. They have played here multiple times and are an integral part of the growing music family that venue owner Shirley de Vooght has nurtured over the past 6 years.

For a Celtic band focused on giving traditional music a modern edge, Cod Gone Wild is succeeding in spades. Booked months in advance for everything from weddings to festivals and house concerts to sports tournaments, their music and stage performance is diverse and adaptable to any size or type of audience.

Their wide appeal may be because their sound is nostalgic for some, yet entirely new to others. It is surely because they work extremely hard, have branded themselves perfectly and deliver a performance that has earned them solid reviews and referrals. What must also be remembered is at the end of the day they are four talented musicians who are the best of friends and full of heart.

Their house concert here was packed to the gills (fitting expression). It was the first time the band has been back since the new house stage was built which allows for a larger indoor audience. On this night, we experienced just how many people you can cram into that living room. 52 to be exact. Anjuli broke into laughter midway through the first set simply because she couldn’t believe how many people had fit in the space. “Look behind you,” she mused to the people in the front row, “it’s hilarious!” Andrew commented it was like watching an airplane load, person after person filing in minutes leading up to the show’s start. The band was thrilled to see the growing audience and so many new faces at the venue, proving how the magic of this place has finally caught on.

Speaking of magic, Cod Gone Wild have an energy that is unparalleled to many based on the simple fact that when you have a world class fiddler front and center in your band there is an intensity and momentum that is constantly at play. The band’s vibe is unquestionable on stage, and for this particular concert they had come to showcase their new album “Battered & Fried”, which they performed in its entirety for the audience (and that was just the first set).

The album is true to the band’s modern Celtic niche proudly resurrecting many traditional tunes as well as highlighting their own songwriting talents in originals interspersed throughout the 13 track album. Beginning the recording process in January, Cod Gone Wild finished the album under the wire just in time for their pre-scheduled release party in March. Thankfully the challenging time frame paid off, forcing them to pull together and go from pre-production to recording to producing the tracks for mastering in just over 2 months. The album’s audio recordings took place in Vernon BC in a space they have affectionately named “The Codshack,” a rented house they have converted into a home-based studio where they all live together (except for Anjuli who says that touring with these three men is great fun, but living with them full time is where she draws the line, which also included a tease or two claiming that “boys smell bad”).

After hearing the album performed live, the hands down favourites are the original songs, and this stays true when listening to the recordings. Again and again, no matter how well a band covers a song or puts their own spin on a traditional tune, there is nothing like listening to an artist perform their own music. Vocalist and guitarist Andrew Mercer has two songs on the album which demonstrate yet again how he is at the core of the band’s creative soul and vision. He wrote “Never Know” only the day before heading into the studio. It is a harrowing tune about honouring heritage, both of one’s family and community at large, in order to be mindful of the past before taking steps towards the future; a fitting message in our current times of environmental unrest. “I Remember” was written by Mercer a number of years ago in Newfoundland when he was performing with a different band. He figured it was time to bring the song back to share with a new audience, and he was right. The moving ballad of a boy mourning the loss of his father at sea touched the audience’s heart, especially those struggling with their own stories of grief.

Andrew Mercer

Welcomed additions to the sophomore album are two original songs by Chad “Rhino” Carter, the band’s larger than life drummer and vocalist. Rhino’s physical presence is unmistakable on stage, but his big heart is the true show stopper. His song “Half Wagon Men/Half Wagon Reel” is an ode to his newfound Métis heritage and adds a fitting folk element to the album. In the same breadth, “Back Roads,” a song about his grandfather’s love of driving in the back country is the perfect end track to bring the album full circle in a compilation of stories shared with the listener. Cod Gone Wild has always had the gift of weaving a story together for their audience on stage, which they have also achieved with this album.

Chad “Rhino” Carter

Although both Rhino and Andrew’s original songs are the true standouts, the success of the band’s music is due to each member and their unique talents and strengths. Anjuli Otter can easily be named the “star” on the stage; the attractive fiddler’s beauty and talent captivate you instantly while her no-holds-bar character and quick mouth can make your jaw hit the floor and insides ache from laughter. Her thumbprint is clearly heard in each song on the album, proving that the fiddle in many respects is the foundational element to Cod Gone Wild’s sound and appeal.

Anjuli Otter

Finally, Roy Kawano, the ever humble bass player who remains relatively behind the scenes, is essentially what gives the band its true edge; sometimes the most understated of elements make the largest impact.

Roy Kawano

Overall, “Battered & Fried” is a well shaped sophomore album that will not only please long time Cod fans, but has the ability to draw in folk fans across multiple genres. Without question, it deserves one hell of an east coast “Sociable!”

Standout Traditional track: “Canadiana Medley” – features exceptional performances by each band member including up-tempo guitar from Andrew, Rhino on spoons (spoons!), an overdose of Anjuli on the fiddle, and even a bass riff solo from Roy…need I say more?

Cod Gone Wild performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, May 3, 2014.

Their new album “Battered & Fried” is available through their website at www.codgonewild.ca.

Get your Serenity Harvest Music Festival tickets through www.serenitymusic.ca to see Cod Gone Wild perform live and provide lights and sound for the entire 3 day festival here on the acreage, September 5-7, 2014.

Photos courtesy of Steve Mechem.

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Devon Coyote

Posted on April 9, 2014 by heatheradamson

Devon Coyote…cool name, even cooler music. Getting his start performing as half of a duo in his hometown of Kelowna BC, Devon eventually made the decision to move forward as a solo artist, and it has proved to be a good one. Taking on the moniker Devon Coyote, over the past 5 years he has been forging a respected name for himself within Canada’s independent music scene. Now joined by the talented D’Arcy Booth and Dylan Ranney, our audience bore witness to the evolution of Devon Coyote as this dynamic trio took his live performance to a whole new level.

Born Devon Bjarnason on a 3 acre farm in the Okanagan Valley, this jovial, kind-hearted man behind the strong stage name is one of the most versatile artists to have ever graced the Serenity stage, which is why venue owner Shirley de Vooght continues to have him back again and again. Devon attracted all of the venue’s regulars from over the years for a show that was nearly sold out weeks in advance. For most in attendance who had come to see Devon play for the second, third or fourth time, they spoke as if he is the darling of the venue, the favourite among many, and the prince of this artistic haven hidden down a dirt road in the heart of BC’s North Thompson Valley.

Devon Coyote’s music is more than a sound or performance, it’s a state of mind. Experiencing a live show lets you in to the consciousness of what it truly means to live and breathe music, how it courses through your veins like a rushing river, eventually crashing into your heart and soul. With a stage full of instruments, Devon showcased his multidimensional talent between the acoustic, electric and lap slide guitar, not to mention his ability with the harmonica. Continuing to one-up himself throughout the night, Devon’s stylings provided something for everyone to enjoy. A chameleon of sorts, he moved with ease from the most authentic blues performance you can imagine, to a light-hearted folk-pop song. Although he transitions between genres, his unique style remains, providing a recognizability that joins his performance together seamlessly. As was mentioned by an audience member hearing him for the first time, “He showed us something new with each song, and I loved every single second.”

Based out of Kelowna BC, Devon Coyote performed for us at the start of a month long tour taking him and the band across the country to Montreal. Once there, they will fly back to BC for a few days to open up for the iconic George Thorogood at the CN Centre in Prince George on April 30 and the Interior Savings Centre in Kamloops on May 1. This bill is one of the largest he has landed since his debut album was released in 2011. It’s proof of Devon’s dedication and perseverance over the years as he transitioned from his life as a tradesman to a full-time musician. And he is now in good company. Playing alongside him were two exceptional musicians who have solidified his sound among some of the purest rock’n’blues you can find.

D’Arcy Booth is one of the most impressive bass players you may ever have the pleasure to see perform. With an ease and mastery of his instrument, his fingers were like silk, gliding across the strings as if barely touching them at all. His bass solos were obvious highlights of the night, not to mention when he pulled out the banjo. Unmistakably humble, D’Arcy’s boyish grin and soft-spoken nature are an absolute delight. Devon deems him one of the most accomplished musicians he has ever played with, which is why he is still pinching himself about the fact that D’Arcy became a permanent member of the band last year. Playing close to 200 shows together in 2013, Devon and D’Arcy compliment each other perfectly and are both equally dedicated to the hard work necessary to keep their music front and center and stay relevant on the touring circuit. D’Arcy also produces a large amount of the visual art for the band’s promotional materials and merchandise. Everything from album art to t-shirt designs, he is eager to contribute to the development of the band’s image. As much as he enjoys it, luckily their newly acquired drummer has the skills necessary to pick up any future needs that may arise.

Recently graduating with a Fine Arts degree from UBC Okanagan, Dylan Ranney came to the band as a painter and sculptor who also happened to play the drums since childhood. In a twist of fate, on a night out meant to contemplate his unsteady career as an artist, Dylan ended up at a venue where Devon Coyote was performing. Devon and D’Arcy were playing with one of the many “fill-in” drummers they had gone through over the past year, and in a moment of frustration on stage, D’Arcy made a tongue in cheek audition announcement to the crowd asking if anyone played the drums. As if D’Arcy was speaking directly to him, Dylan rushed the stage and introduced himself immediately. What started out as funny banter, opened the door for acquiring the missing link to the band, a drummer and percussionist who was not only good, but whose personality blended well with both Devon and D’Arcy. With the appeal of a young Jay Baruchel, Dylan adds some youthful spunk to the musical “veterans” as he so slyly refers to his band mates in their early thirties. For Devon Coyote, after years of performing on his own, he is stronger and more confident than ever due to the incarnation of a band that performs the hell out of his music.

It’s important to note that a component of what makes Devon Coyote’s live show so enjoyable is that Devon himself is incredibly likable. Although it may seem rather simple, likability is a quality that is forever intangible for those who do not naturally inhabit it. Whether you are watching him on stage or sharing a beer with him off of it, he is the kind of artist you root for, who you will keep coming out to see again and again and buy albums from year after year. He has a bravado that causes you to sit up and take notice of every note and word, with a comforting familiarity that is all together unaffected.

Between his debut album Blue, Black & Grey (2011) and last year’s EP Broken Down (2013), Devon Coyote continues to keep us guessing about what he is capable of producing next. Heading back into the studio this summer to record his second full length album, based on what we saw and heard here, the best is yet to come.

Standouts: Mona Lisa, a sweet tune that captures a sentiment of longing and youth; Always in the Grey, a solid dose of up-tempo rock’n’blues that shows off Devon’s musical chops; and Broken Down, a gutsy dagger to the heart that earns its place as the title track off his recently released EP.

Devon Coyote performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on April 5, 2014.

For links to album downloads, music videos, information on his tour schedule, and more, visit his website at http://www.devoncoyote.com

Posted in Articles, Photos | Tagged Devon Coyote | Leave a comment

The Lion The Bear The Fox

Posted on April 1, 2014 by heatheradamson

Once in a while, life presents something magical; an experience that shakes you up, and reminds you what it means to be human.

The Lion The Bear The Fox were the vessel for one of these moments in time for those of us fortunate enough to be in the Serenity audience on this night.

Three men, whose hearts are bigger than their brawn, whose dynamic energy and passion oozes from every word and note, and whose individual talents are showcased to their full potential through their collective effort.

On this night, in a living room that has been converted to an intimate music venue, the men of The Lion The Bear The Fox turned their live show into an emotional awakening.

Each song was performed with an intensity and motivation to connect with each member of the audience. To see these three masculine figures become uninhibited and vulnerable with each other and a room full of strangers was remarkably surprising.

To describe the unique combination these three musicians have created is a feat worthy of the challenge. Christopher Arruda (the lion), Cory Woodward (the bear), and Ryan McMahon (the fox) each have their own story to tell, their own history and journey that could fill these pages just as easily. However, it is the joining of their lives on a path not only of music, but of brotherhood, that magnifies their ability to inspire.

Having spent years on the road and in the studio as solo artists, each of whom experienced their own degree of successes and challenges, they came together almost by accident, a favour of sorts for what was intended to be a one time deal, which has now led to the formation of a band and bond that is challenging the frontier of men in music, and even what it means for each of them to be a man.

Describing themselves as the evolution of the boy band, the “Man Band” are here to cause a reckoning of sorts. Christopher, Cory and Ryan exude a sex appeal and manliness that rivals any backwoods, lumber jacking, gold mining, mountain man you can throw at ’em. But beneath their physical exteriors lie three souls who have experienced deep pain, emotional damage and have been beaten down by the cheap tricks life can throw at you more times than they can count. Which is why when they expose themselves to reveal this pain, all the while acknowledging their new-found joy and hope in one another, there is a magic that happens between them and the audience that is formidable in its delivery.

Among all of their unbridled sentiment is a strength that is unwavering. When they perform a song or share a thought so captivating that you are moved beyond explanation, their presence holds on to you, creating a sense of security for one to feel and experience what is needed in that moment.

Telling them afterwards that the show felt like an intense counselling session, they welcomed this with smiles and laughter, saying “It’s working.”

Organically through developing music and a deep friendship with one another, they have discovered a purpose and received a response they never achieved at this level as individuals. They have learned that together they have a gift of connecting people, of inspiring an examination of self, and most intriguingly, of challenging what it means to be a “man.” Striving to prove that masculinity and strength need to be synonymous with tenderness and emotional depth, The Lion The Bear The Fox want their music to help people truly feel each moment, and not be afraid of their pain and heartache in order to fully appreciate and experience happiness.

As far as their overall performance, each of their strengths are showcased in a manner that provides variety for the audience in a cohesive format. Although each are incredibly different, their unification never seems forced or contrived. Their voices and musicality compliment each other in a perfect blend of harmonies and personalities. Cory’s husky tone eloquently delivers inspirational life lessons through songs that communicate the most complex of life’s questions and struggles, all the while with an edge of charm and wit that keep them from sounding too depressing. Christopher’s powerhouse vocals provide an intense dose of emotional weight that reach out like a punch in the gut and then ease up to reveal a gentleness, as if receiving a kiss that makes it all better. Ryan is the effortless rock star who was born to be on stage, with a voice so clean and a look so clever that his piercing blue eyes cut right to your heart as you lose yourself completely in the stories behind the songs.

It is almost impossible to choose one moment from a night that was filled with so many. Could it be when Ryan led the performance of his song “Wake Up”, born out of rekindling that spark with the one you love, which struck a chord with those struggling in the trenches of marriage, yet he dedicated it to three beloved widows in the audience who had shared their relationship secrets with the band earlier in the evening. What about Cory’s intense delivery of “Go Your Own Way,” which he prefaced with a monologue so gripping it made time stand still as he pronounced that “the only possession you will ever truly own is the moment right in front of you.” Or maybe it was the emotionally charged encore of the night, where Christopher came out into the audience, asked for all the lights to be turned on, and the three of them placed themselves in the heart of the crowd. The Bear and The Fox harmonized while The Lion belted out “Home,” the song he wrote for the men standing beside him, proving that their connection to one another is not manufactured, that they are not just a band, but have become each other’s lifeboats in a sea whose waters became too rough to swim alone.

A sincere thank you is in order for what they gave each of us this evening. A room full of people of all ages from all walks of life, who came for a night of great music, and were given so much more.

The Lion The Bear The Fox performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on March 28, 2014. (Their 11th show in 10 days, and the last day of Leg 1 of the “Freedom” Tour to be exact…and yes, they still delivered a performance that was everything written here and more).

Their debut EP “We’d Be Good Men” is available on bandcamp through their website, http://www.thelionthebearthefox.com along with links to their blog posts, social media platforms, videos and more.

What’s next? They will be announcing dates for Leg 2 of the “Freedom” Tour on April 11, 2014, and have been selected to showcase at Canada Music Week in Toronto on May 9, 2014 at The Rivoli.

Posted in Articles, Photos | Tagged The Lion The Bear The Fox | 1 Comment

Jacob Moon

Posted on March 22, 2014 by heatheradamson

It has taken me some time to put words to paper on Jacob Moon’s incredibly personal performance here last week.

Some nights the words come to me immediately and I can’t get home fast enough to write them down. Other times, a performance sinks in over a matter of days before I find myself inspired by a certain song or moment that comes flooding back and everything takes shape.

For Jacob, it has been a slow realization that it is difficult for a hobby writer such as myself to feel equipped enough to do justice to an artist as accomplished as Jacob Moon.

The Serenity venue tends to host a lot of artists who are in the early years of their development. It truly is the venue’s heart and soul. Serenity owner Shirley de Vooght provides a home on the road and a well-paying gig for musicians craving anyone to hear their music. It is wonderful and it works.

So when someone like Jacob Moon plays here, who has been in the business for almost 20 years, played to thousands of people, and has met and played for the likes of icons such as Gordon Lightfoot, it feels different.

Although he has topped the charts as a contemporary Christian artist, his music crosses genres and envelopes the heart in a matter of minutes.

Watching him live you appreciate the years he has put into mastering the guitar, including the use of a loop pedal which is the new craze among young singer songwriters, whereas Jacob has been performing with one for almost 10 years.

Typically staying after a show to have a sit down conversation with the artist, on this particular evening I felt Jacob had already shared so much of himself with the audience, it seemed almost unfair to ask him to give any more. Not to mention that he performed for us following a delayed flight, a 4 hour drive in poor conditions, and merely 3 hours sleep the night before. Although he would have been more than gracious to answer anything I asked, something told me this piece was meant to be based on the pure experience of being an audience member. Because that is truly what I want to convey to the reader, so that people are encouraged to seek out independent artists, buy their music, and make plans to see a live show for themselves.

How can you describe a man who so openly shared the joys and sorrows of his life with a room full of strangers? A man who described the heartbreaking loss of discovering he and the love of his life could not have children of their own after years of trying. Who admitted to the pain of seeing pregnant women and babies, not understanding why they could yearn for something so deeply that they were not meant to experience. A man who then let us in to the long journey he and his wife embarked on, that started with a trip to meet their sponsor child Sara in El Salvador, who inspired them to adopt back home in Canada. A story that unveiled adopting a two year old boy in a situation so unbelievably magical it is too precious to attempt to retell here, followed by the adoption of his biological brother a year later, and if all goes according to plan, the boys’ biological sister will join their family in the coming months.

Among all of his stories and sharing, Jacob’s songs were performed as a way of weaving them all together to create a tapestry of his life, on full display, holding nothing back. I know artists tend to be vulnerable, but this was off the charts. At times there wasn’t a dry eye in the house, and in the next moment, we would be in an uproar of laughter.

Our crowd was treated to the most personal of songs like “End of the Road,” a touching ballad he wrote for his wife as she struggled through the heartbreak of infertility, to impressive covers from some of the greats like Paul Simon’s “Under African Skies.” Jacob was the perfect combination between the personal appeal of a folk singer/songwriter and the polish of a pop star.

A seasoned performer and class act above many, Jacob Moon deserves the high esteem in which he is held. Playing everything from stadiums, conferences, tribute concerts, and small intimate house shows like ours, he rises to the occasion in all formats.

Although his many awards, notable performances and highly acclaimed albums are impressive and worth noting, there is not enough room to mention them here, but this is the link to his Wikipedia page which does a fine job. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jacob_Moon

Above all else, Jacob Moon is a man who through every obstacle life has thrown at him, has never given up hope and never given up on his dreams, and in turn, he helped us all remember ours.

Jacob Moon performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on March 13, 2014.

Visit his website at http://www.jacobmoon.com for music downloads, tour dates, links to his facebook page, twitter feed, and more.

Check out Jacob’s extensive YouTube videos over the years on his YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/jacobmoon

Posted in Articles, Photos | Tagged Jacob Moon | 5 Comments

Luca Fogale

Posted on March 11, 2014 by heatheradamson

Playing to a full house, Luca left the audience with a resounding feeling that they had just discovered their new music crush. You can equate hearing Luca’s music for the first time to meeting a relatively attractive person, who after getting to know them, becomes the most stunning person you have ever laid eyes on. This in a nutshell is the Luca Fogale experience; his music is unmistakably enjoyable upon first listen, then once you see him perform live, meet and share even a few minutes with the guy, suddenly his album is forever at the top of your playlist. He is also the type of artist where it becomes difficult to separate the beauty of his music from the beautiful person that he is.

Luca’s music is somewhat of a manifestation of his unique “old” soul. Genuinely humble, inexplicably charming, and limitlessly gracious, Luca has a tender heart that is made vulnerably available to the audience, which makes you want to protect his gentle nature while promoting him to everyone you know. While a healthy dose of narcissism remains a mainstay among many musicians and performers, Luca has an unaffected and sincere demeanor that is fresh and real and lovely.

He is the epitome of the artist who writes the soundtrack to your life. His ability to capture the nuances and range of the emotional landscape we experience as human beings is uncanny. At 23 years old, Luca not only relates easily to today’s youth, his depth and insightful explorations also reveal a wisdom and timeless appeal to his music.

Passionately influenced by iconic legends such as Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, Luca’s songwriting is focused on building narratives that are not contrived or corny, but rather thought provoking, commentative and meaningful on multiple levels for the listener. The impact of Luca’s sound is anchored by his exceptional voice, which is truly all the marketing he needs. The instrumentals he builds on guitar and piano create the perfect backdrop to showcase his vocal range and lyricism. Luca has this pleasing softness to the quality of his music that is endearing to its core, and when you consider the man behind the music, you get a performer who is capable of becoming a Canadian folk music treasure.

Releasing his debut EP Paths in July 2013, the album is a perfect introduction to his abilities as a songwriter. His angelic voice truly stands out among the current independent music scene, proving why he was selected as a top 20 artist in BC’s 2013 Peak Performance Project and was recently selected in the first round of artists to showcase at Canada Music Week in Toronto this May. Currently working on his first full length album with highly sought after producer Chin Injeti at Hastings Set studio in Vancouver, it is not at all surprising that Injeti, who has recently produced for some of the industry’s top names in hip-hop, is equally as passionate about sharing Luca’s genuine sound with a growing fan base. Hearing his new material live confirmed how much Luca has grown as an artist in a very short amount of time. Enrolling in University as was expected from his traditional Italian parents, Luca struggled to stay focused on his studies when his passion continually led him to spend all of his time and energy playing music. He made the courageous decision to follow his heart, and he has now accomplished 10 months of making music his full time career (you should know, his mother is still the first person to hear every new song).

Writing and performing constantly, Luca’s countless hours spent dedicated to his craft are paying off in spades as he reaches new heights in translating the human experience into songs that deeply move his audience. Whether you are lucky enough to see him weekly as a resident performer at Moksha Yoga in Burnaby, or have experienced one of his many live shows in the Greater Vancouver area or elsewhere in BC, it is safe to say that Luca is an artist heard once, forever loved. As he plans his tour across Canada that will lead him to CMW in May, there is no doubt that once the rest of the country hears the sweet sounds of this young BC singer-songwriter, he will surely make his way into the collective hearts of Canadians everywhere.

Be sure to pick up his EP Paths where each track is a jewel in its own right, from “Identity Theft” that has qualities of early Dave Matthews Band, to “The Way We Are” that showcases his exquisite vocals and thoughtful songwriting perfectly. The highlight is the bonus 6th track on the EP’s hard copy and Luca’s newest single release “What I Came Here For,” a graceful song that delicately paints a touching expression of love and affection, because in the end, what else is there.

Luca Fogale performed at Serenity Performing Arts Centre on March 7, 2014.

His debut full length album “Safety” is set to be released in early summer 2014.

For links to music downloads, videos, Luca’s social media platforms and more, visit http://www.lucafogale.com

Posted in Articles, Photos | Tagged Luca Fogale, Paths EP | 1 Comment

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Writing about art seen and heard, including the live shows at Serenity Performing Arts Centre near Clearwater, BC Canada

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