This year's
Edmonton Folk Music Festival once again presented a huge variety of folk, blues, Worldbeat, and fusions of these genres and more. For me, a highlight is discovering new sounds from around the World as well as up and coming talent.
The
Steep Canyon Rangers was probably my discovery of the weekend. The Grammy-award winning bluegrass band fuse country and folk into their lively music.
Havana D'Primera, from Cuba, presented an exciting main stage show on Sunday afternoon. The Salsa beats were contagious and I had a hard time stopping myself from getting up to dance right there in the photo pit!
Sometimes the most memorable performances don't happen on any of the stages. Here is
Rosanne Cash playing at the
CKUA booth. She has such a beautiful voice and her songs are haunting.
I have seen
Alex Cuba a number of times at the EFMF and he always attracts a huge crowd. When he started to play his signature song "Si Pero No" people danced and sang along - it really is a great song that I never get tired of!
Niyaz, from Iran, was absolutely mesmerizing. The multi-faceted performance included traditional instruments, vocals, dress, and dance. There were even a few belly dancers in the audience!
Makana totally changed my view of music from Hawaii. Noted as a slack key guitarist, this guy can really play! He is also an activist and enthralling performer.
Don't accuse
Amy Helm of resting on the laurels of her famous father, the late, great Levon Helm. Her performance is full of passion and she has an incredible voice.
On the local front, Edmonton singer/songwriter
Joe Nolan is someone to watch out for. His memorable songs and unique delivery are just some of the reasons why he just landed a deal with Canadian label
Six Shooter Records.
Tim O'Brien was on my must-see list this year. His abilities on guitar and fiddle with his signature bluegrass style translated very well on Stage 2.
Scotland's
Dick Gaughan is another performer I have seen multiple times at the EFMF and I always enjoy his storytelling through song.
I love music from Canada's First Nations, so I was excited to catch the performance from the
Iskwew Singers. A trio of three Cree women from British Columbia, the group performs songs in the plains tradition, telling stories of connection to the earth, Creator, and each other.
The EFMF is always a memorable event and this year was no different. To see my full collection of photos, including performers, people, and various shots around the festival site, click
here. ~ Paula E. Kirman
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