Guide to RBC’s Ottawa Bluesfest: July 12, 2015
Arkells (Photo courtesy of Auteur Research)
After the mesmerizing performance from Porter Robinson and short-but-sweet appearance from Iggy Azalea on Saturday, the expectations are high as the week progresses into Sunday.
But before the break on Monday, Day 5 has your daily dose of energetic, dance-inducing music with stellar punk, reggae, and rock n’ roll bands scattered across the festival.
For more details on the festival, check out the Bluesfest website, but before that, have a look at today’s recommendations:
Scott Helman
3PM: Bell Stage
Toronto singer-songwriter Scott Helman spent his high school years honing his song writing skills, perfecting his musicianship, and aiming for a record deal. Before he knew it, he was signed to Warner Music and released an EP last October. At 19, his pop-friendly vocals and original song writing are easy to listen to and enjoyable throughout.
The Visit
330PM: Barney Danson Theatre
Ottawa neo-classical duo The Visit is composed of cellist Raphael Weinroth-Browne and vocalist Heather Sita Black, and together their epic, progressive style is a dramatic and otherworldly experience.
Sticky Fingers
4PM: Claridge Homes Stage
Travelling all the way from Sydney, Australia, Sticky Fingers are a reggae rock fusion band that are known for transposing their kickback attitude into their summer-inspired music.
Failure
5PM: Bell Stage
Los Angeles alternative rock band Failure disbanded back in 1997. 18 years later, they reassembled and released their newest album The Heart is a Monster a few weeks ago on June 30th. Although almost two decades have passed, Failure have not lost their core grunge-space rock influences and are part of the 90s alt-rock revival.
The OBGMs
545PM: Canadian Stage
DUSTY ORGAN APPROVED
Toronto dance-punk band The OBGMs are putting themselves on the map with their relentless energy and irresistible punk hooks. They released their debut, self-titled album almost a year ago, and since then they have been touring and bringing the fun to the forefront.
Heems
6PM: Claridge Homes Stage
One of the original members of NYC-based hip-hop crew Das Racist, Punjabi-American artist Heems throws together comedic flare, relatable wordplay, and lassé-faire attitude for a chill, yet entertaining style.
The Glorious Sons
7PM: Canadian Stage
Kingston indie rock n’ roll band The Glorious Sons have been working hard to polish their sound and get their name on the radar. Their debut release The Union hit shelves last September to positive review, and as they continue their tour, their fan base continues to grow.
Cee Lo Green
8PM: Claridge Homes Stage
Goodie Mob/Gnarles Barkley member Cee Lo Green is bringing his hip-hop/soul/pop style to Bluesfest. From the hit singles “Crazy”, to “Forget You”, and “Bright Lights, Bigger City”, his show is sure to be a great time and fan favourite for the evening.
Arkells
830PM: Canadian Stage
DUSTY ORGAN APPROVED
Hamilton indie rock band The Arkells have been fan favourites since their 2008 debut release Jackson Square. They have since released two more albums to positive reviews and currently touring for their 2014 release High Noon, their live shows are always a good time.
Blue Rodeo
915PM: Bell Stage
Formed in 1984, Toronto country-rock group Blue Rodeo are still going strong, releasing their 13th studio album back in 2013. Back on tour, the iconic Canadian group are veterans of Bluesfest and are without a doubt a must-see this evening.
* = Honourable mentions
OTHER SHOWS
3PM: Silvergun & Spleen (Indie rock) – Canadian Stage
330PM: Joe Gaspar Band (Alternative rock) – Monster Energy Stage
430PM: Tribal Seeds (Reggae) – Canadian Stage
5PM: Bosvled (Art-rock/Ambient)- Barney Danson Theatre
5PM: The Kinsey Report (Blues rock) – Monster Energy Stage
630PM: Hat Fitz & Cara (Blues/Bluegrass) – Monster Energy Stage
630PM: TJ Wheeler (Blues/Folk)- Barney Danson Theatre
7PM: Philip Sayce (Singer-songwriter/Blues pop) – Bell Stage
8PM: Texas Horns (Blues) – Barney Danson Theatre
8PM: Willie Nile (Singer-songwriter/Rock n’ Roll) – Monster Energy Stage
930: Richard Thompson (Singer-songwriter/Folk rock) – Monster Energy Stage
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