Derek Andrews’ presence at the Aurora Cultural Centre has made for a line-up this season that’s bound to grab the attention of some roots and world fans. Of the seven concerts happening between now and Jan. 27, five are on the folky side of things.
The next concert is by Juno-nominated singer Basia Bulat this coming Saturday, and concerts will run deep into January, including Lance Anderson’s tribute to The Band at St. Andrew’s College on Jan. 19.
The performances will run at two venues in Aurora, ON – The Aurora Armoury and St. Andrew’s College.
Have a look at these highlights:
Basia Bulat – Nov. 4 at NC Aurora Armoury
Basia Bulat is known for her powerful vocals and prowess on wide range of instruments, notably the autoharp or charango. Born in Toronto, the 39-year-old has thrice been nominated for a Juno and is a three-time Polaris Music Prize finalist. She has released five albums to date that blend of folk, country and pop.
David Francey – Nov. 24 at NC Aurora Armoury
A Scottish-born carpenter-turned-folk singer and poet, David Francey has released 11 albums and won three Junos for his work, which chronicles working class life with great affection. He is regarded as one of Canada’s most revered folk poets and singers for his openhearted singing style and storytelling ability. He was raised in Toronto and currently resides in Lanark County, near Ottawa.
Windborne – Dec. 2 at NC Aurora Armoury
Windborne – comprised of Lynn Rowan, Will Rowan, Lauren Braunig and Jeremy Carter-Gordon – are internationally acclaimed for their innovative arrangements, bringing complex harmonies to old songs. The group was catapulted into the spotlight when a clip of them singing protest songs outside Trump Tower went viral in 2017. Their music is entrenched in social activism, labor and civil rights, and other movements that champion the oppressed, poor or disenfranchised. They will be joined on stage by vocal group Freeplay.
Ariko – Dec. 16 at NC Aurora Armoury
Made up of three sisters, a mom and a dad, the Lefaive family band known as Ariko is known for its vocal harmonies and dynamic fiddle stylings. The family’s musical roots are in traditional French Canadian folk music, with toe-tapping bluegrass and zydeco tunes.
The Last Waltz – Jan. 19 at St. Andrew’s College
The Last Waltz is the brainchild of Orillia’s Lance Anderson and features an all-star cast of of vocalists, including Chuck Jackson of Downchild, Johnny Max, Matt Weidinger, and Quisha Wint. The 13-piece project is a salute to The Band, celebrating the remarkable repertoire and sound that sold millions of recordings and supported Bob Dylan.
