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This performance WIL break strings

WIL is a passionate acoustic guitarist singer-songwriter. I was lucky enough to catch his live performance in Nelson last year.
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WIL with his weapon of choice

WIL is a passionate acoustic guitarist singer-songwriter. I was lucky enough to catch his live performance in Nelson last year. He covers most of the performance on stage by himself, but on occasional songs he will share the rhythm with a drummer. His on line presence can be found on the link www.ibreakstrings.com because he does. He strums his guitar ferociously with intense rhythms, occasionally busting the tension of his strings.

He is a consummate touring professional. He will undoubtedly hold the attention of the audience with his powerful indie-roots-rock sound and his stage presence. He aims to communicate to his audience, not just with song, but story as well. His performances have become legendary. He is going to pound, he will scream, he will sweat and vibrate with intensity. Anyone caught in the room will be sure to be drawn in by his “hooky” melodic passages and lyrics that hit you in the head and heart.

His music holds the beauty, passion and intelligence like the offerings from Paul Simon. But I think WIL is more aggressive. Growing up with country musicians for parents, his music also holds elements of some old-school-country that they showered him with in his youth. WIL is carving a niche for his own, and it’s honest and filled with energy.

WIL is on tour of western Canada right now to support a new recording entitled ‘In My Skin.’ “This is the first album I wrote entirely myself,” says WIL. “It was recorded with a sense of freedom from time restrictions or A&R. I simply grabbed what I could grab in a moment and went with it, trying not to overanalyze anything or overcook it. That’s what happens live so I really tried to retain that feeling when I could. WIL goes on to say “In My Skin’ is exactly where I'm at and I love it. It may sound egotistical but it’s not. When you are good with yourself it’s far easier to give to others because there is always something there to offer.”

 

WIL Mimnaugh has some profound music and perspective to share with you people of the Elk Valley. His show is not to be missed. WIL is performing on Saturday November 12 at the Northern Bar and Stage in Fernie.

 

By Colin Lock

Free Press Staff