The temperature’s rising and so is the excitement about this year’s Roots and Blues Festival, which saturates the Shuswap with music in August.
The festival has a tradition of presenting an eclectic smorgasbord of world-class acts in many genres.
But organizers are also making a point of giving emerging artists the opportunity to play before large and appreciative audiences – something they have done in the past with talents like Serena Ryder, one of this year’s big Juno winners, or Bedouin Soundclash, Shane Koyczan, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Angélique Kidjo, and more.
“With a commitment to encouraging up-and-coming talent, Roots & Blues announces three fresh and original acts generating real buzz in the music industry,” says Root and Blues Festival marketing manager Scott Crocker.
• One of the most dynamic groups to hit the Jamaican music scene, Raging Fyah has a sound likened to legendary artists such as Bob Marley, Peter Tosh and Third World.
Since the “Fyah” was ignited in 2006 in Kingston, Jamaica, these five talented musicians have set out to rekindle a flame of positivity in the music industry. With the release of their first album, Judgement Day, they have gained recognition locally and internationally.
With their authentic, soul-filled, roots rock reggae sound, Raging Fyah will no doubt be a powerful player in the long-awaited reggae renaissance.
• Formed after a busking trip to Victoria in 2010, Good for Grapes, the Vancouver based indie-folk act, has been dazzling audiences and gaining momentum ever since.
With their energetic stage presence, busting rhythms and tight harmonies, this young (just out of high school) band has captured the attention of the Canadian music industry and fans alike.
Their humble beginnings playing in support of charity events and foundations has garnered them a varied, loyal and enthusiastic fan base that grows with every turn.
• Individually, they are known as some of the hottest players on the Canadian roots scene, collectively they are known as the strikingly original quartet Oh My Darling.
In the four years since the wintry Winnipeg jam session that started the journey, Oh My Darling has released three critically acclaimed albums and is touring continually through Canada, Europe and the US, including a recent debut at New York City’s Living Room.
Now in it’s 22nd year, the Salmon Arm Roots and Blues Festival remains one of the premier festivals in B.C. with a reputation for consistently presenting one of the most eclectic festival line-ups in the country.
Catch these and other performers, including the recently announced legendary soul and gospel singer Mavis Staples and renowned singer-songwriter, guitarist and author Josh Ritter, in what promises to be a brilliant 2014 lineup and one that continues to unfold.
Tickets are available at www.rootsandblues.ca or by calling 250-833-4096.
Help wanted
Roots and Blues Festival organizers are still looking for a number of volunteers in many capacities.
All volunteers must fill out an application form and a waiver form. Youth between the ages of 14 to 17 must have a parent or guardian sponsor their signature on their waiver.
Returning volunteers have until tomorrow to confirm their volunteer area from the previous festival. After that, all volunteers will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, visit the festival website at www.rootsandblues.ca or call 250-833-4096.