Wapiti, Fernie’s liveliest summer folk music festival, has officially announced its lineup for 2020. Marking the festival’s tenth anniversary, this year’s festivities will bring Indie lovers together over the weekend of August 7 and 8.
“Our mission is to enhance arts and culture and tourism in Fernie and the Elk Valley. We’re trying to create a festival that is attractive to visitors and makes locals proud to support,” said Kevin McIsaac, festival organizer. “We strive to create a festival that is approachable by all ages, that is inclusive, friendly, and fun. And hopefully exposes people to music they love, especially music that’s new to us and to them.”
The much anticipated lineup includes The Sheepdogs, a triple Juno award winning retro rock band of five from Saskatoon. Giving an old musical foundation a modern twist, the long haired quintet will be playing songs from their newest album, Changing Colours. Branching out from a foundation of rock and roll, the band’s new album focuses on keyboard and string instruments, yet still holds onto its classic roots.
Returning to Wapiti will be local favourite, Shred Kelly. Having received much of their musical inspiration from the surrounding mountains, the British Columbian band’s sound carries an underlying vibe that is sure to complement a day spent with toes in the grass and a cold beer in hand. The band will be playing high energy sing along songs from their fourth album, Archipelago.
The Harpoonist and the Axe Murderer will also be gracing the Wapiti stage for the second time. This successful duo has not only been nominated for Juno Awards, but also had their music featured on various shows including CSI and The Good Wife. The band will be playing songs from their newest album, Apocalipstick: a soulful, gritty, blues-rock album.
Another band taking the stage this summer is Leather Apron Revival. Performing their debut EP, this band’s baritone vocals, soulful feel, and fiddle playing will have toes tapping all weekend long.
Also showcasing her musical talents at the festival will be Begonia. Described as an unconventional woman, the Winnipeg based Juno Award winning soloist will floor audiences with her bold yet sensitive pop music that has reached #1 on CBC Music Charts.
Other bands that will be present at the event include the Ontario based quintet, Wildlife, who will bring to the stage a uniquely raw and emotional sound with a punk twist. Sitting on the other end of the spectrum will be The Free Label, an R&B band from Toronto who have performed their songs and dances around the world.
Apart from the music, also available for indulgence at Wapiti will be a wide selection of lipsmacking food and crisp refreshments. Everything from juice to local beer, healthy snacks to downright tasty treats will surely pair well with the wide array of Indie music.
With more acts to be announced closer to the date of the event, and DJ’s keeping the party rolling in between sets, this year’s line up promises an unforgettable festival. This being said, interested attendees are reminded to purchase tickets soon, as both early bird and advance passes are already sold out.
editor@thefreepress.ca
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