Four years ago, Eddie Young set out with a vision. A vision which would see Fredericton come together in a grassroots movement combining folk bands with unlikely venues and building from the ground up. And now we have the first volley of performers being announced for the Living Roots Music Festival 2019 lineup.
For Living Roots, the coexistence of local artists and artists from across the country is crucial.
“A big reason for hosting Living Roots is to bring touring acts and local acts together. The hope is for them to collaborate and build friendships, so when our acts go on tour they will have friends in other cities across the country, and vice versa,” says organizer Eddie Young, who has provided the heart and soul of the festival.
But above that, what the festival stands for is growth in our arts community. With an emphasis on more than just music, Living Roots strives to revive the strong interest and sense of togetherness that has made our edge of the country so special.
“I also think it is very important that folks see the significance of indie acts in our arts community. Just because you don’t know the name does not mean they are not very talented,” continues Young.
“Going back 20 years, I really loved going out and seeing live music and discovering new acts. I moved to Ontario for 6 years, and when I came back I found that our scene had changed. I would like to see it get back to where it was before, and I do feel it is in a pretty good place right now. We are seeing more good venues and have a mostly supportive community.
I think we just need a few more folks to get off Netflix and their couch and maybe step outside their comfort zone and go see a band they don’t know already.
There was a time you did not stick to a single favourite band, and your next favourite may have been playing at a bar or venue or house just down the street.”
So far, the festival is announcing three of its acts: Hawksley Workman, Jessica Pearson and Greg Smith.
“I am truly excited to welcome Hawksley into the festival family. I have been following him and his music since early 2000’s. Being able to present him at this year’s festival really brings me back to my ROOTS,” says Young.
“A big part of the festival is introducing some of the best talent that you have not yet heard of. Greg Smith has played two shows for me over the last year. His songs are full of emotion. Be sure to see this guy.
I met Jessica Pearson on the road in November and knew right away she would be a great fit for the festival. Jessica and her band The East Wind will blow you away with their musicianship and harmonies.”
All from Ontario, Young’s ear for curation guarantees these names as acts worth hearing, but only amount to about ten percent of the festival’s full lineup.
As with past years, Living Roots is set to feature a long list of venues. This year’s list includes Grimross Brewing, the Capital Complex, the Cinnamon Cafe, the Abbey Cafe/Red Rover Cider House and the Lock Pub & Grill as well as the return of Wilmot United Church and the new addition of the Tipsy Muse Café.
Living Roots Music Festival happens in Fredericton (and Harvey Station), New Brunswick between May 30th and June 1st, 2019. The Hawksley Workman show on Saturday, June 1st is being co-presented with Shivering Songs at the Wilmot United Church and tickets can be purchased individually or as part of a festival pass bundle. Early-bird passes and Tickets for Hawksley Workman will go on sale Friday Jan 11 at 10 AM AST, through etixnow.com.