Well, Day 9 of 9 is here.
And after a successful two weeks of music, fun, and excitement, another year of RBC Bluesfest is almost at its end. If you have any energy (and money) left and plan on heading out for the final day of the festival, check out the Festival Guide below to discover the best picks for Sunday’s performances.
For more information on the festival, head to the official Bluesfest website.
The PepTides
City Stage: 3:00 – 4:00
The always colourful PepTides have become a top pick in the Ottawa music scene. Their chromatic, choreographed performances leave audiences mesmerized, and hypnotized by their groovy, energetic mix of soul, pop, and funk. Always eager to get the party moving, The PepTides never pass on the chance to lead a dance party – and a Sunday afternoon is no exception.
Bombino
Claridge Stage: 4:00 – 5:00
Nigerian/Tuareg musician Bombino first held a guitar back in the early ’90s while living in Algeria as a refugee with his family. His fascination with the electric guitar inspired him to learn from videos of Jimi Hendrix and Mark Knopfler , eventually taking formal lessons as a teenager, and going on to become a renown guitarist in his own right. His incredible guitar playing captured the attention of many Western producers including Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys, who helped Bombino complete his sophomore album back in 2013. Since then, Bombino has been touring the world, mesmerizing audiences with his psychedelic, Tuareg sound, and his enthralling talent.
Amos the Transparent
City Stage: 5:00 – 6:00
Celebrating their ten year anniversary this year, Ottawa alternative rock band Amos the Transparent are bringing their homegrown, folk-infused music to the big stage Sunday evening. The six-piece band are able to create layered, dense songs that fill every inch of space, resulting in lush harmonies, and invigorating alternative folk rock.
leMeow
Claridge Stage: 6:00 – 7:00
Ottawa soul-pop act leMeow have been making the most of their 2016. Having released their debut album York St. back in June, the couple-turned-duo Gin Bourgeois and James Rooke add their own charm and personality to the timeless genre of soul and funk.
Monday I Retire
Barney Danson Theatre: 6:30 – 7:30
Lead by brother and sister duo Mackenzie and Ben DiMillo, Ottawa soul pop band Monday I Retire are a hidden gem in the local music scene. Although small in stature, Mackenzie Di Millo has one of the biggest voices in the city, moving freely between soft and smooth to booming and dominating. The five piece band blend blues, jazz, soul, funk, and pop into enthralling songs that bring out the best in each of the members, supported as always by their close relationship as friends and bandmates. With a new EP set to be released this August, Monday I Retire will be performing old favourites and hopefully some new ones as well.
The Zolas
City Stage: 7:00 – 8:00
Vancouver indie pop group The Zolas have this certain sway and demeanour to their music. Light-hearted vocals, and colourful, yet never overbearing melodies give their sound a summery, lush feel. It’s the kind of music you wouldn’t mind listening to in a hammock with a cool glass of lemonade, but also the sounds of a dimly-lit dance party at an indie music bar. With a collection of hits under their belt, including “Ancient Mars”, “Knot in My Heart”, and “Fell in Love With New York”, The Zolas are the right mix of synth, guitar, and piano pop for a summer’s day.
Bryan Ferry
Claridge Stage: 8:30 – 9:45
Longtime musician/singer-songwriter Bryan Ferry released his fourteenth studio album back in 2014, and since then has been brining his smooth, silky croon back to life. Although his career peaked in the ’70s and ’80s, Ferry has maintained a steady career since, charming fans with his hits and Brit-pop sound.
City & Colour
City Stage: 9:45 – 11:00
Iconic Canadian singer-songwriter Dallas Green (a.k.a. City & Colour) was originally best known for his rich vocals in the hardcore punk band Alexisonfire. His contrasting voice provided the softness in the chaos, and eventually pursued his solo career, making numerous chart-topping hits from his signature voice and poetic songwriting. As the closing performance for RBC Bluesfest, Green is bringing his full band along with him, sending the festival off with what will be a powerful performance.
