Folk festival boasts star-studded lineup
Long one of the region’s best showcases for varied, new and exciting musical artists in a perfect setting, the Vancouver Folk Music Festival celebrates 40 years this year. Beginning with a free Thursday night concert in the park — details TBA — the three-day event promises nearly 60 artists from 18 countries, 10 states and eight provinces and territories.
If you are feeling the budget crunch this season for travel, hang out in the park.
Returning fan favourites include U.K. singer Billy Bragg with Joe Henry playing songs from the acclaimed Shine A Light: Field Recordings From the Great American Railroad, Lilith Fair-era artist Shawn Colvin, Kathleen Edwards and women’s music progenitor Ferron and her All-Star Band. Those who crave the latest rising stars from across the globe can appreciate exciting acts ranging from Congo’s Mbongwana Star to Colombia’s cumbia-tronic Sidesteppers, Greenland’s Nive Nielsen and The Deer People and multiple Juno Award-winner Alpha Ya Ya Diallo. If good old time back porch picking is to your preference, True Blues with Corey Harris and Alvin Youngblood Heart, Tift Merritt and Jim Kweskin’s jug band action are sure to entertain.
As always, the VFMF pursues its founding mission statement of presenting performers who reflect the politics and struggles that folk music plays such a role in propelling into the public mind. Expect topical and passionate material from Australian aboriginal singer Archie Roach, labour singer Si Kahn and — perhaps one of the most anticipated group tours in this year’s roster — Native North America: A Selection Of Indigenous Trailblazers Featuring Duke
Redbird, Willie Thrasher and Linda Saddleback, Willy Mitchell, Lloyd Cheechoo, and Gordon Dick Sr. Former B.C. resident Cris Derksen brings her unique “orchestral Pow Wow” music as well.
That’s just a smattering of the roster.
Plus, don’t think Canada isn’t well represented. Such CBC regulars as John K. Samson and the Winter Wheat (Manitoba), Jim Bryson (Ontario) and Hillsburn (Nova Scotia) join B.C.’s C.R. Avery, The Belle Game and the legendary Roy Forbes for performances throughout the weekend.
Early Bird weekend passes are on sale now. They sell out quickly.