Sooke River Bluegrass Fsetival: The Slocan Ramblers, Sarah Jane Scouten , Nomad Jones, The Unfaithful Servants, Clover Point Drifters, Country Squall, Twin Bandit , Riverside Bluegrass Band, THE WOOLY BEARS, Craig Marcuk
The Sooke River Bluegrass Festival celebrates its 15th year and Canada’s 150th birthday with an all Canadian-lineup that features the best in national and regional bluegrass bands. The family event Father’s Day weekend (June 16-17-18) at the Sooke River Campground features bluegrass and Appalachian style old-time music, as well as workshops, jam sessions and a Saturday night square dance under a big top circus tent. There’s no need to know the moves -- the beginner-friendly square dance follows the long-held tradition that every dance is taught on the spot. Weekend passes are a rock-bottom $50 and children 14 and under are free, with camping also available on site. Bring your camp chair, your guitar, banjo, fiddle or mandolin and join the fun.
Sarah Jane Scouten (Country & Folk)
“I like her songs, each one has a great line or two that jump out and slap you in the face. She can do funny and she can do sad, there’s just something special in her stanzas that are better than most. Picture a feisty 12 year old Tom boy in a dress gripping a sling shot.”
- C.R. Avery
“Sarah Jane Scouten is the real new deal. New songs... more info
Nomad Jones (Bluegrass)
Nomad Jones is a hot and happening Western Canadian bluegrass outfit equally comfortable ripping on rollicking classics or serenading on sultry ballads. Drawing on an extensive repertoire from traditional ‘grass right thru the acoustic music spectrum, Nomad Jones will entertain you with their blood harmonies and intriguing instrumentals. Over the... more info
The Unfaithful Servants
The Unfaithful Servants have gained a reputation in Western Canada as a must-see
act. With an original and exciting approach to acoustic music, the group serves up
explosive instrumentals, compelling story-telling and high-powered vocals.
With critically acclaimed performances under their belt (Vancouver Island
MusicFest, Salmon Arm Roots & B... more info
Videos:
Clover Point Drifters (Bluegrass)
Bluegrass band from Victoria, BC, Canada. Their repertoire consists primarily of traditional bluegrass songs,
with a sprinkling of country, folk blues and pop tunes served up in bluegrass style.
Their songs feature close heartfelt duet and trio harmonies,
backed by strong banjo, mandolin and dobro instrumentals. more info
Twin Bandit
Twin Bandit is a contemporary Americana, traditional folk duo consisting of Hannah Walker and Jamie Elliott. Their original songwriting will bring to mind familiar memories of new love and old scars paired with an intimate live performance that will leave you feeling soft and aglow. The banditas met at Vancouver’s non-profit St. James Music Acade... more info
Riverside Bluegrass Band
Riverside Bluegrass brings a fresh, foot-stomping take on traditional bluegrass, complete with blazing banjo licks, sweet harmonies, and a love for storytelling. Hailing from southern Vancouver Island, this group mixes classics with original tunes that echo the rivers, forests, and folk who inspire them. Catch them live for an authentic and uplifti... more info