Inspired songs of longing
East Coast Music Hour presented at deCoste to wrap up series
PICTOU, N.S. — For those interested in entertainment and supporting local musicians and singer-songwriters, one of the best ways to discover and hear some of the region’s best is to tune in to Bill Roach’s CBC radio production of East Coast Music Hour.
This fall the host has taken the popular show on the road and is presenting three special series called The Story and Song. Each performance shares a special theme inspired by either courage, transformation or longing. The live shows are free to audience members and feature four Maritimes artists sharing their songs based on the theme for that event.
The deCoste Performing Arts Centre has been selected as the venue for the third and final show in the series to be held Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7:30 p.m. The four featured artists include Gabrielle Papillon, Jennah Barry, Cyndi Cain and Ian Sherwood who will all share their inspired songs of longing.
Based in Halifax, Papillon has recently released one of her most personal projects to date with the launch of her seventh album “Shout.” She has captured a great deal of the “story” of dealing with mental-health issues like depression and anxiety when faced with feelings of being boxed in by society and how it is possible to overcome those feelings.
From the coastal haven of Mahone Bay, Barry is one of Atlantic Canada’s surest sirens. Her undeniable, rosewater voice sets a mood wherein even the hardest truths seem palatable. She moves effortlessly between folk, country and soft-rock motifs.
Cain is the Canadian East Coast's most formidable figure in original soul music. Her powerful voice, unforgettable stage charisma and timeless compositions have made her a rising star in Nova Scotia's vibrant music scene. Cyndi recently released her second full-length album Soul Food (Independent, 2013) to rave reviews.
Sherwood’s fifth studio album, Bring The Light, produced by Daniel Ledwell, is filled with the same cleverness that has endeared Sherwood to his audiences. A born storyteller and a constant creator, his music dances the line between folk and pop.
Joining the four musicians is the East Coast Music Hour House Band featuring Owen Lee on keys, Jamie Gatti on bass and JR Smith on drums.
The premise for the program stems from the fact that people on the East Coast are all connected by stories. Stories can inspire, shape the way people see the world, and give hope.
Doors to the auditorium open at 7 p.m. on Oct. 29. Seats are going fast and, although the show is free, tickets need to be booked in advance. Tickets can be reserved in advance by calling the deCoste Box Office at 902485-8848 or 1-800-353-5338 or by visiting decostecentre.ca/tickets or go to 99 Water St., Pictou.