My Picks from Bellwoods [NXNE]
I had the pleasure of spending the passed four days in Bellwoods park for the NXNE hosted by . Wouldn’t it be rad if every weekend kids got together in the park to listen to live music? The weather held out too and made for some perfectly sunny days. There was something communal about watching these stripped-down sessions, none without their own xylophones, drumkits, horns, flutes and tambourines. Digging through twenty-something bands, I found some gems I’m really excited to introduce you all to. I’ve got it down to five acts that are definitely worth checking out.
Tristen
Nashville-based was the first act up, and she was darling, something of a young Dolly Parton. I remember admiring her high waisted jeans. She played sweet folksy pop songs with a bit of Southern twang with the accompaniment of two guitarists and a drummer (Buddy, Jordan and Ben). Definitely a favorite.
Tristen- Eager For Your Love
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Tristen- Save Raina
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The Balconies
were a collective favorite to a growing crowd in the park. Their classical roots combined with pop sensibility, haunted bass lines and mesmerizing violin, this three-piece arrested listeners with their gorgeous set. Jacquie held her own with a shimmery falsetto and an impressively polite posture.
The Balconies- Rest Up
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The Balconies- Serious Bedtime
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The Sheepdogs
Saskatoon’s were eternally loved for playing their set in a tree (well, mostly in a tree) It was quite a hike up and the frontman couldn’t quite make it all the way- but it worked out. They play what I like to call beard-rock, some wonderfully scruffed up vocals that are lumberjack-esque (which I sincerely mean in the best possible way). They’ve got that bluesy burning guitar, and vocal harmonies that sound suspiciously Southern for these Northerners.
The Sheepdogs- I Don’t Know
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US Royalty
Washington-based graced the grass with two of it’s members. Both of which looked magnificently unkempt. Check out a neat remix of their track Keep It Cool by Bo Flex Giantess. My first introduction was much more stripped down acoustic, but I’m definitely vibin on this dance track.
US Royalty- Keep It Cool (Bo Flex Giantess Remix)
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Allie Hughes
‘ presence is unquantifiable, she immediately radiates the kind of grace, and strangemess that leaves you plainly- infatuated with her. Everything she does, her cabaret-style song and dance, her bizarre yet beautiful vocals, or her general comical disposition. Everything about her is a performer. With the help of an accordian, guitar and drums, Allie introduced us into a new realm of performing (authentic. fun.) She was an absolute delight, one of my favs.
Check out my top picks from the Bellwoods Sessions!!
Check out my top picks from the Bellwoods Sessions!!
Thanks Friends with Both Arms: http://www.friendswithbotharms.com/2010/06/21/my-picks-from-bellwoods/