Festival Guide: RBC Bluesfest 2016 – July 13

And we’re back!

After taking a relaxing two days off, RBC Bluesfest is back at it for the final days of the 2016 festival. The second half of performances kicks off at 6pm Wednesday night, and Day 5 of the festival is sure to be an lively one. Featuring a solid mix of folk, country, rock, and electronic, tonight’s performances are not to be missed.

We’ve compiled a list of the must-see shows for tonight to make your festival experience the best one possible. Read through our suggested picks of the night below, and for more information on the festival, head to the official Bluesfest website.

Jack Broadbent

Monster Energy Stage: 6:00 – 7:00

Starting his career as a busker in the U.K., singer-songwriter Jack Broadbent has quickly become known for his virtuosic slide guitar playing and deep blues style. Influenced by the music of John Lee Hooker, Howlin’ Wolf, and many other blues pioneers, Broadbent has his eyes set on the world as he shares his mastery and talent.

Alessia Cara

City Stage: 7:00 – 8:00

At the age of 13, Alessia Cara decided to start posting her covers of pop songs on YouTube. Six years later, the young Canadian singer released her chart-topping debut full-length with Def Jam recordings and has toured North America as a supporting act for Coldplay. With the success of her hit single “Here”, Cara is on her way to becoming a prominent name in Canadian pop music. Her stunning and powerful vocal abilities are well past her years, and with the energy of a 20 year old, her performances are a fun time for all.

The Decemberists

Claridge Stage: 8:00 – 9:15

American indie rock veterans The Decemberists have been in the game for almost two decades, and have since become leading names in the modern rock genre. Their eccentrically artistic personalities come through in their music, which often jumps between vibrant indie pop tunes to dense, lush rock ballads. The band’s seventh studio album What A Terrible World, What A Beautiful World was released back in January of last year, and was a highlighting collection of their ornate sound.

XXYYXX

Black Sheep Stage: 8:15 – 9:15

Orlando, Florida native Marcel Everett (a.k.a XXYYXX) began producing electronic music in his bedroom at the age of 14. Through the magic of the internet, Everett became a popular name in the indie electronic music scene for his chill-step remixes and full-sounding production. Catch the young prodigy as he takes the stage Wednesday night.

Half Moon Run

Black Sheep Stage: 9:30 – 10:45

Scientists say that humans are unable to multitask, but Montreal-based indie alt-folk band Half Moon Run are proving them wrong. From their debut album Dark Eyes, the band reached international success with the hit single “Full Circle”, and returned to do the same with their sophomore Sun Leads Me On last year. The single “Turn Your Love” revived their three-part harmonies and instrumental multi-tasking, to mesmerize fans all over again. Their dynamic live performances have made Half Moon Run a favourite in the tour circuit, and their Ottawa stop should be as fascinating as always.

Brad Paisley

City Stage: 9:30 – 10:45

Country music icon Brad Paisley has won countless awards throughout his career and has even been inducted as a member of The Grand Ole Opry. His love for country music began at a very young age, and ever since then Paisley has transformed his passion into phenomenal country music. His lengthy career as a singer-songwriter and guitarist is stock-full of hits and #1 albums. His charming personality and energetic musicianship makes him not only a successful recording artist, but also an entertaining live performer.