Toby Beard is no stranger to Canada. So far, she’s played more than 170 shows on Canadian soil, and is about to begin her 11th tour here, with new album in hand.
“Canada is like my second home, so I’m happy to be launching my new CD in a place I’m so fond of, and among Canadian friends,” said blues and roots artist Toby.
Since 2006, Toby has spent most of each year criss-crossing the globe. Her busy touring schedule means she doesn’t get to spend a lot of time home in Perth, Australia, and that’s one reason she likes Canada so much.
“Canadians are so friendly and welcoming, and such good people,” she said. “They remind me a lot of Australians, and always make me feel at home. That means so much to me when I’m far away from my real home.”
Toby is known for energetic, raw and feisty performances on stage, and makes an indelible impression wherever she goes.
She wears her emotions, thoughts and adventures on her sleeve as clearly as the delighted smile she sports while playing. It's that chemistry and connection in between plenty of dancing and jumping from both sides that makes each performance so unique and unpredictable.
Her music showcases insightful, honest and poignant song writing, and is an invitation to explore her mind and her soul. It tells stories across emotions and continents, yet never loses track of its Australian roots, giving it a sense of place and time.
While on tour, Toby will promote her new Coming Home CD. Recorded over two nights in Perth, the live album features a mix of songs from the past 10 years. It includes various Australian musicians on guitar, double bass, ukulele, trumpet, violin, keyboard, and harmonica. Notably absent are drums, resulting in a truly intimate and acoustic experience.
Toby is making a stop at the Royal Hotel in Fernie on Thursday, September 30.
She will be joined by fellow Aussie Joel Plymin on saxophone and flute, Winnipegger Ivan Burke on drums/percussion, and his twin brother Eric Burke on bass.