The Calgary Folk Festival has so much to offer that it can be tough to pick what to see and do. From my experience, you can almost never go wrong and with so many stages to choose from, there are options for everyone. One of my favourite things about Folk Fest is the eclectic options available – and one of the bands that I am most excited about is A Tribe Called Red. I first heard of this band’s outspoken politics last year, when they asked their non-aboriginal fans to stop wearing fake “Indian” costumes to their shows. Their stance highlighted the ongoing racism towards aboriginal people that has become so systemic that many people do not even recognize these actions as being racist. They have also been outspoken about sports teams using the name “Redskins,” which eventually helped lead to an Ontario football league changing their name. More recently, they came out with a clever play on the Washington Redskins’ logo, changing the image to say “Caucasians” with a dollar sign above a white guy’s head. Needless to say, I have admired their activism and unwillingness to play nice. Their outspokenness should not take away from the fact that they are amazing musicians. Their first album was released in 2012 and was nominated for the Polaris Prize. Their sound is a mix of electronic, hip hop, dance hall and a mash up of traditional powwow music. Their music is powerful and intense – but it still manages to be fun. Be prepared for some serious dancing and good time Friday night thanks to A Tribe Called Red.
Another Canadian act that I can’t wait to see is Basia Balut. This is not her first rodeo when it comes to the Calgary Folk Fest, which is where I first was introduced to her several years ago. Basia has released three albums, with her most recent having been short-listed for the Polaris Prize. Basia was last in Calgary a few months ago while on tour with the Head and the Heart – she put on an amazing show then, and I can’t wait to see her this weekend. She has an amazing stage presence, with a whimsical style that is absolutely captivating. She is a true pleasure to watch and is sure not to disappoint.
If you’re looking for some psychadelic folk music this weekend, The Deep Dark Woods is a good bet. They have played together since 2004 and have released five albums. Their last album was recorded right in our own backyard, in Bragg Creek. Their live shows are amazing, as they tend to jam and improvise while they play. They have great harmonizing abilities, and clearly enjoy playing together. You might not be on a “real” trip, but they can take you on pretty fun ride. These guys are a must-see.
If you want to heighten your eclectic experience, then you should check out Yamantaka // Sonic Titan. Coming out of Montreal’s vibrant performance art scene, this band pushes the boundaries of sound, which is enhanced by an entrancing visual experience. They use chanting, operatic elements, with a true rock n’ roll blend that, despite being experimental and explorative, ends up working into something cohesive and engaging. If it doesn’t sound like your “thing” it’s not supposed to. Go check it out, you won’t regret it!
If you like experimental artists, then Calgary’s Chad VanGaalen is your guy. He is an illustrator, animator, and according to his record label, has been filming a science fiction movie. VanGaalen has released five albums and four EP’s. He works out of his home, and has a down-to-earth style that has allowed him to stay true to his music and himself. He has an amazing sense of humour that shines through during his shows, and his music is eccentric, interesting, and intense. You don’t want to miss out on what’s sure to be a fantastic set – he most certainly is one of Calgary’s finest.
A dear friend introduced me to Valerie June shortly after her record was released last year, and I have been loving her ever since. When I saw that she was playing on Thursday night, I literally fist-pumped. She comes out of Humboldt, Tennessee, and was highly influenced by the gospel music in her church. She has a rich country-folk sound. She has been on the scene since the early 2000’s, playing gigs and singing back-up for other singers. She released three independent albums before releasing her debut as signed artist. Her soulful voice and ageless music are both nostalgic and cutting edge at the same time. Valerie June brings memories of days gone by, but brings excitement about what’s to come. She is playing Thursday night at Folk Festival, kicking off what sure to be an amazing festival.