Day 3 of Ottawa Bluesfest saw lots of rain. Thankfully it was nothing like the downpours we had to endure for the Tragically Hip show last year. Despite the rain, there was a large crowd that came out to see the headliners for day 3 – The Lumineers. While I could see some heading out early, most stayed until the very end.
The Lumineers bust open the gates with a bang hitting the audience with Ho Hey,Ophelia and Cleopatra right at the start of their set. It was a great way to get the crowd engaged, hopefully forgetting about the rain.
After my time in the photo bit, I made my into the audience, back far enough that I could take in the spectacular lighting they had rigged up. The 4 columns they had hanging behind them looked fantastic, changing colours throughout the show.
This was my first time seeing the band live. I wasn’t sure going there if I would put up with the rain, but the band’s opening few numbers had me hooked and I was not leaving until they were done. I hope they’ll be back in Ottawa when it’s time for the next tour as this is one band I definitely want to see again!
Earlier in the evening I went to the Black Sheep stage to check out the Kirby Sewell Band. While I don’t listen to a lot of blues music, had it not been for needing to photograph a few other bands, I could have watched these guys all night. Definitely entertaining. Lead vocalist Kirby Sewell had stage presence and then some. He was so animated and totally engaged in their songs.
He has a solid band behind him. There was a good kick coming from drummer Jim Johnston and bassist Jae Cho. Together they churn out an interesting set of music combining elements of blues, rock, soul and gospel. If you’re a fan of the blues, I highly recommend checking these guys out the next time they roll into town. Heck, even if you’re not, you might enjoy them as much as I did.
