The first main act on day 1 that I had to catch was the Sam Roberts Band. I’ve been a fan since he burst on to the Canadian music scene with his break out hit Brother Down 15 years ago. It was great to hear some of the new tunes off of Terra Form live finally, including If You Want It, Rogue Empire and FIEND. I’ve seen him so many times over the years that I’ve lost count. One thing I’ve come to learn though, no matter the set list, you’re in for a great show. I would have preferred a later start time however so that the lighting had more of an effect on the show.
Up next for me was Pokey LaFarge. I’ve heard his name a few times over the last year or so and the comments always seem to be similar, a little quirky and the music is great. The Bluesville tent was pretty full when Pokey took the stage along with his 6 piece band. The group delivered a thoroughly entertaining set to the delight of fans. I left wanting to check out more of his music.
My headliner for the night was Death From Above 1979. The band walked on stage and wasted no time laying down a set of raw energy under a barrage of pulsing strobes. The lighting made photographing the duo tough, but I was happy with what I was able to capture. From the roar of the crowd after each song, they were happy with what they were hearing too.
Sam Roberts Band
Pokey LaFarge
Death From Above 1979
