Recently posted by Glenn Meisner

On this Saturdays' edition of the program - A concert from Caleb Miles - and a feature Linda Brooks and her recent release The Upside

Caleb Miles is a guy who doesn't let the grass grow under his feet - His musical journey began under the blazing sun of New Mexico's high desert playing lead guitar in original rock'n'roll bands throughout the 1980s and early 90s - From there his path led to places as far-flung as Detroit Michigan, Athens Georgia, Lexington Kentucky, Portland Oregon as well as countless forgettable dives in between - In 2005 Caleb moved to Nova Scotia expecting to surrender to a rural solitude and an early retirement from the stage - Instead, he found a rich and rocking community of musicians, songwriters, performers and listeners with whom to share his ongoing musical adventures.
Last March we invited him to take part in an evening of music we were presenting along with the Deep Roots Co-Operative at the Al Whittle Theater in Wolfville Nova Scotia.
Listen to concert

The past year has been a busy one for Linda Brooks - writing, traveling and recording - Last October, she journeyed to California to shoot a video for her holiday song, 'This Christmas', which received radio play across Canada during the holiday season - She then packed her bags for Nashville where she hooked up with Chris Leuzinger, best known as guitarist on all of Garth Brooks' albums, to produce her new album 'The Upside' - The first single 'Now That You're Here' debuted on the top 10 indie downloads on DMDS and is currently being played on over 25 stations coast to coast - In addition to her musical successes, Brooks is also an actor and has recently appeared on CBC's hit comedy Mr. D and will appear in the upcoming feature film, 'Guys Who Move Furniture', starring Will Sasso, Charlie Murphy, and Victor Garber.

On this Saturdays' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - features on two Prince Edward Islands acts - Dennis Ellsworth has a new recording, 'Dusk Dreams - and the North Lakes have released their new album, Grand Prix

Of all the singer songwriters that are making their presence known on Prince Edward Island, and there are quite a few, Dennis Ellsworth is standing out from the crowd. Although his rise to prominence is a fairly recent achievement, his road goes back a long ways. He's been at it since he was 15, but he's been singing "Forever in Blue Jeans", on the bathroom counter while brushing his teeth, since he was 5 years old. He is a music lover; always has been, always will be. His contributions to music are far reaching; He's been in rock, indie, punk, and country bands. His songwriting is sincere, evocative, poetic, and honest.
His new album, 'Dusk Dreams', which was released on May 15 on Busted Flat Records, was recorded in Athens, Georgia, with acclaimed musician and producer, David Barbe.


Sending reverberations from beyond the Confederation Bridge, North Lakes are a rock n' roll band that radiate with swagger and bravado. Taking their cue from '60s pop and garage rock, the energetic five-piece combines vivid lyrical imagery and a colossal roar of musicality to craft punchy, concise rock records. Their latest album, Grand Prix, captures North Lakes at their most raw. Recorded in a church in Long Creek by Adam Gallant (whose credits include acts such as Boxer The Horse, The Danks, English Words, Al Tuck and more), the album is a testament to the galvanized direction and ambition of the up-and-coming Prince Edward Island-based band.

On this weekends' edition of the program, a very special concert - Erin Costelo and Stephen Fearing, Together For The First Time.

listen to concert
A very special concert we recorded at the end of March - The venue was the Al Whittle Theater in Wolfville , and performers were Erin Costelo and Stephen Fearing along with a great band consisting of Jamie Gatti on bass, David Burton behind the drums and a horn section of Chris Mitchell, Rick Waychesko, Ken MacKay and Danny Martin.

The idea behind this project was to challenge these two Artists, who normally create the music they make in isolation, and commission them to collaborate and co-write three totally new pieces of music. That was back in December. The process so invigorated the creative juices that when rehearsals came there were seven new songs.

The subject matter of the commissioned songs was left to Erin and Stephen, except for one. Because April 15 marked the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic, it was suggested that they write one song based on a Titanic theme. The result is a song titled 'Lord Come and Take Me Home'.

On this weeks' edition of the program - A feature on The Long Distance Runners and their new release 'Tracks - and - A feature on John Gracie and his new release 'Live From The Flamingo'

For the past two years, The Long Distance Runners have built a reputation as one of Newfoundland's hardest working and dynamic up-and-coming bands. Their debut self-titled EP (2010) solidified their place in the east coast music scene with a recent handful of ECMA (East Coast Music Association) and MusicNL (Music Newfoundland and Labrador) award nominations. Now, the St. John's based four-piece are getting ready to enter the next chapter of their career with the release of their first full length album 'Tracks'. Recorded at Kilbride's Lab Of Chaos with Krisjan Leslie over the winter of 2011,'Tracks' marks a significant shift for the band as they head into new territory in their songwriting and growth as musicians. Soaring three-part harmonies, swirling organs and jangly guitars set against singer Chris Picco's humourously dark lyrics invoke late-60's era Beatles, Kinks and Velvet Underground.

John Gracie began singing before he was speaking! His mother would often find him behind the coal stove singing his little heart out. He thought if you couldn't see him, you couldn't hear him. John's mother knew John had a special gift and sent him to vocal lessons when he turned 4. He starting writing songs shortly after that. One day, he came out of the bathroom crying, his Mom asked him what was wrong. He replied through his tears, "Mommy, I just wrote a very sad song." John went on to perform as a teenager in local events and on local radio. He taught himself to play the guitar and wrote continuously. In unversity, he performed and hosted intercollegiate folk festivals and was a favourite on the college circuit. After university, he started to perform professionally.
He moved to Halifax and at that point began touring the globe, performing on national television and recorded his first album. A fortune teller once told John's mother that she saw a guitar in her son's life and that it would bring him everything he wanted in life. After much success, John continues to grow musically.

On this weekends' edition a concert from Rose Cousins recorded at the Ironwood Stage and Grill in Calgary Alberta.

Halifax based singer-songwriter Rose Cousins finds insight in solitude and strength in numbers - Supported by a thriving Halifax music scene and welcomed by an equally vibrant Boston community, her new album,'We Have Made A Spark', was made in Boston with that spirit of community and collaboration.

Rose regularly performs and records with artists in the US and Canada - her Canadian collaborations have included recording and touring with Joel Plaskett on his multi-Juno-winning album 'Three' and recording 'A New Kind Of Light', a Christmas CD, with label-mate Jill Barber and 2011 Juno New Artist of the Year, Meaghan Smith.

'We Have made A Spark' follows on the heels of her two multi-award-winning albums, 'The Send Off' produced by Luke Doucet and 'If You Were For Me' produced by the CBC here in Halifax. Rose Cousins is currently on tour in support of that new album and our colleagues in Alberta recently caught up with her in concert at the Ironwood Stage and Grill in Calgary.

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves, we'll have a feature on Geoff Arsenault and his new recording 'Voodoo Baby Rattle'

If you've ever attended a live concert from Ray Bonneville , Morgan Davis , Carlo del Junco, Mary Jane Lamond , Thom Swift , Rita MacNeil , David Myles or Bill Stevenson, then you've probably seen and heard Geoff Arsenault. He's the unassuming guy tucked in behind the drum kit laying down the solid rhythmic foundation. For most of his life, Geoff has done just that, quietly making other people sound better.

But there's another side to Geoff, that of a songwriter, a singer with an incredible voice, and a more than adequate guitarist. Up until he released his first solo recording, 'This Ain't No Fiction', back in 2006, most of his closest friends and band mates knew nothing of this other side. Well, now Geoff Arsenault is back with his second solo recording 'Voodoo Baby Rattle'. It was recorded at the legendary Echo Chamber in Halifax with Charles Austin and released back in February, and ike his first recording, the songs on this one are based on very subtle grooves with a Tony Joe White vocal style and guitar work reminiscent of JJ Cale.

On this Saturday's edition of the program - A special 2 hour live to air broadcast from the Breakout Stage at the 2012 ECMAs being held in Moncton.

This will be a two hour broadcast on CBC Radio One in Atlantic Canada beginning at 5 past 5pm - We will be live streaming a full three hours beginning at the same time at http://www.cbc.ca/ecma/
Our special musical guests will be:

Banded Stilts' are a alternative-folk band that play unique singer-songwriter tunes backed by a folk ensemble. The sometimes odd lyrics, beautiful melodies, folk styling and storytelling narratives of lead singer/songwriter Steve Haley appeal to young and old alike.

The fact that Dylan Guthro was brought up in a musical household is quite evident. He picked up his first guitar at the age of four and has since toured with his dad, the internationally renowned Bruce Guthro, as far afield as the prestigious Tonder Festival in Denmark and as close to home as the Stan Rogers Folk Festival.

Mo Kenney is 21 years old and resides in Waverley, Nova Scotia. Mo writes songs on a Hensel parlour guitar and enjoys singing them for people when the opportunities arise. A few of the songs are happy. Most are not. Mo has performed at ECMA, Stan Rogers Festival, Evolve, Nova Scotia Music Week, The Company House and the Carleton. Mo's song "Eden" won the 10 x 10 video contest during the Atlantic Film Festival. Mo is currently working on a debut album at the Scotland Yard with Joel Plaskett producing. It will be released on New Scotland Records in 2012.

The BackYard Devils honour country and bluegrass tradition, making for a familiar yet gratifying listen. With the ghosts of bluegrass and country greats past and present looking approvingly upon them, the boys show they're capable of writing catchy tunes including the hilarious Mean Moonshine Blues, while tracks like For My Lord and House On The Coast seem instantly recognizable. That seems to be a big part of the Devils' charm; their ability to honour a time-tested genre like bluegrass while injecting a modern take on it. Frankly, their ability to walk that line so well will help them appeal to the traditional fan while also most likely winning over non-typical bluegrass.

For the past two years, The Long Distance Runners have built a reputation as one of Newfoundland's hardest working and dynamic up-and-coming bands. Their debut self-titled EP (2010) solidified their place in the east coast music scene with a recent handful of ECMA (East Coast Music Association) and MusicNL (Music Newfoundland and Labrador) award nominations. Now, the St. John's based four-piece are getting ready to enter the next chapter of their career as they prepare to release their first full length album 'Tracks' this April which will be available on CD, vinyl and iTunes.

The last two years have been busy for The Meds with multiple sell-out shows in each Maratime province. The Meds have shared the stage with such notable acts as Meatloaf, Matt Mays and Down with Webster, as well as PEI artists like Tim Chaisson, Two Hours Traffic, and Paper Lions.

On this week's edition of the program a concert from The Barra MacNeils and Symphony Nova Scotia

The founding members of the Barra MacNeils are siblings Sheumas, Kyle, Stewart, and Lucy MacNeil and in 2005 two additional brothers, Ryan and Boyd, joined the band.
The core group began performing together in 1980 while still teenagers. In 1986, they released their first album on their own independent label, winning their first East Coast Music Award in 1991. They've won four more since, including an Album of the Year award for TimeFrame in 1992, and a Group of the Year award in 2001. Along their journey they signed with Polygram for a few years and their 1993 album Closer To Paradise earned them a gold record. Fast forward to the spring of 2011 and we find the Barra MacNeils teamed up with Symphony Nova Scotia for a concert at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax which could possibly be the best concert they have ever given. A dream come true for the group.

On this On this weeks' edition of the program - A feature on Olivier Jarda and his new recording 'Good Luck Cartel' - and a concert featuring the the Caravan from our East Coast Sessions series.

Olivier Jarda was born in Ottawa to Haitian immigrants, but spent most of his youth in New Brunswick where he played drums, bass and guitar for various ensembles, most notably the former Moncton-based group Turnstiles. He moved to Halifax for undergraduate studies, then with a Rhodes Scholarship in his pocket it was off to the University of Oxford in the UK for masters studies. Following that his path lead to Washington DC where he worked on climate policy at a think tank before returning to Canada to seriously pursue a career in music.

Jarda's debut solo LP, Diagrams (2008), which he supported with several UK dates and a cross-Canadian tour in 2009, has been described as "a confident and well-crafted release...Diagrams not only stands up to repeated listens, it demands them." -Wolves Hawks and Kites

His new album, Good Luck Cartel is better than the last. He recorded it in Halifax over the last two winters with Charles Austin at Echo Chamber, and with the help of some very talented friends. What came out was a decent representation of some decent songs. His new band consists of Nick Wombolt, former drummer for Jimmy Swift Band, Devin Ryan, former bass player for Krasnogorsk, a cellist, a keys player, and a backup singer. Jarda plays the guitars and sings. The album will be released independently in Canada in April and it will be released on the independent label Jam Jar Records in the UK in May.

Caravan full audio concert
The Caravan is a refreshing east coast hiphop trio whose roots run the gamut of rock ,jazz ,soul and even Appalachian music. Their preference for 'jamming it live' and for using various instrumentalists versus samples creates an energy and chemistry that is infectious and catchy. Kyle Mckenna, Mike Ritchie and Mark Bachynski (Classified's drummer) are the nucleus of the Caravan. They're joined on this show by Phil MacKenzie , Matt Myer (Gypsophelia) and Mary-Grace Koile.

Halifax born and based, these musicians have put their own spin on a genre. "Hip Hop, done our way" says vocalist Kyle McKenna, "We're not from New York, or L.A., we're East Coasters, might as well show it."

"We influence each other, always trying to improve our sound, while soaking in what Halifax is doing as a whole." - Mike Ritchie (Lead Guitar) The Caravan have never stopped exploring where they can take the music. "We put some Bassoon on our last album with huge violin solos, for Hip Hop, we're changing the norm. Mike's got a whole sound scape going in his head, and we're ready to see what we can produce!" - Mark Bachynski (Drums).

On this weeks' edition of the program - A feature on Dale Murray and his new recording Dream Mountain Dream - and a concert featuring the Modern Grass from our East Coast Sessions series.

A lot of good things have happened to Dale Murray since his days back in the '90s with the legendary Halifax based, indie folk rockers, the Guthries. He's become a sought-after session musician, a solid songwriter, as well as a producer and recording engineer. He's toured and recorded with some of Canada's hardiest road warriors; Hayden, Joel Plaskett, Cuff the Duke, Buck 65, wife Christina Martin, Matt Mays and Blue Rodeo. After a seven-year silence since the release of his last solo album, Brighter Lives, Darker Side, he's finally back with a new one, Dream Mountain Dream. He recorded this one at his newly minted home studio

The instrumentation is bluegrass, the music is newgrass. With influences ranging from jazz to bluegrass, gypsy to blues, classical and folk, this young group of musicians are melding styles and taking acoustic music into the future.The members of the Modern Grass are Tom Terrell - vocals ,acoustic guitar; Andrew Sneddon- dobro, backing vocals; Donald MacLellan - violin,backing vocals; Adam Pye- bass; and Dan MacCormack on banjo and mandolin. Although the Modern Grass is only a little over a year old, they have already done a cross Canada tour and are in the process of recording their second album.

Here's an interview with the Modern Grass with CBC's Shauntay Grant.

related links:
concert audio
concert videos

On this weeks' edition of the program - A feature on the debut self-titled album from Paper Beat Scissors - and a concert with Ria Mae from our East Coast Sessions series.

The brains behind Paper Beat Scissors is Tim Crabtree. He's a musician and songwriter who arrived in Nova Scotia from Burnley, England in 2004 for a one year master's program and has yet to leave. After he completed his international development studies degree, he ventured into the Halifax music scene who quickly embraced him with open arms and it became apparent that Crabtree had a calling and had found the place to pursue it.

Tim had a lot of help on this album, his first full length, recording the bed tracks in Riverport Nova Scotia's Confidence Lodge by Chilean audio wizard Diego Medina, added to at the Montreal homes of Mike Feuerstack of Snailhouse, and mixed by the hands and ears of, Arcade Fire drummer Jeremy Gara. Some other notables appearing on the recording were Rose Cousins, Tanya Davis, Pietro Amato (of the Luyas, and Bell Orchestre) and Sebastian Chow (of Islands)

Ria Mae's East Coast Session - full audio concert

Brassy and bold, Ria Mae's got what it takes to brave the storm, as she ventures into the depths of her own vulnerability to resurface with strength and clarity. Moody, melancholic and melodic, Mae creates slick pop songs with universal themes of longing, love lost and hearts found.

Mae's natural approach captures the emotive, sonic essence of the 8-track album, with vocals, guitar, bass and drums recorded live off-the-floor. Part confession, part ballad, "Stop. Rewind. Begin." softly swells with memory and Mae pulls listeners, from the dark, into the light with the title track "Under Your Skin".

Immediately following the ECMA nominated album's release, She went on tour across the US, opening for Boston-based singer-songwriter Melissa Ferrick. Mae performed as a duo with Margot Durling (harmonies, percussion) for 17 dates, from Buffalo, New York to Nashville, Tennesse, with one Canadian date at the legendary Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto. In October, Mae travelled to New York City for the Mountain Stage NewSong Contest and won the International Finalist title, and a showcase at CMJ.

After the release of her Between The Bad EP in 2009, Mae was coined Best New Artist by The Coast and was nominated for a Music Nova Scotia Award for Best New Artist in 2010. She has shared the stage with Melissa Ferrick, Amelia Curran, Jenn Grant, and Rose Cousins, and showcased at Nova Scotia Music Week, Canadian Music Week and CMJ.

A versatile artist, Mae performed the lead role "Emily," a renegade homeless musician, in Snow, an award-winning film written and directed by Rohan Fernando. Mae's on-screen performance in Snow premiered at California's Cinequest Film Festival and at the Atlantic Film Festival in 2011. Mae's song "Between the Bad" is featured in the movie's soundtrack, scored by Asif Illyas, which won the Atlantic Film Festival Award for Outstanding Music.

On this weekends' edition of the program - A concert from Jimmy Rankin from our 'East Coast Sessions' recorded at CBC Radio Studio H in Halifax.

One of the most nominated artists in East Coast Music Award history upped his tally this year, when Jimmy Rankin topped the list of 2012 ECMA nominations with eight. The Nova Scotia singer-songwriter and member of the Rankin Family saw his latest release Forget About the World named in the album, country recording and solo recording categories, while the single Here in My Heart is up for songwriter, song and video of the year. Rankin is also one of 12 acts in the fan-voted entertainer of the year lineup and has an additional nomination for I'm Just Saying in the video of the year category. Add to those a JUNO nomination for Country Album Of The Year and you might say he has had his best year to date.

"I knew I wanted to make a country record, but not a straight ahead country record," he explains. "I wanted it to be something more, something quiet in places, something reflective, and maybe something that did feel from the heart. People have a hard time categorizing my music. I've had an eclectic upbringing, Hank Williams Sr, rock n' roll, Celtic... And to me, country music is all those things."

In January of this year Jimmy Rankin dropped by our CBC Radio Studio H in Halifax for an intimate concert in our East Coast Sessions series to share some of his latest music.

More videos from that session

On this weekends' edition of the program - A feature on Mike O'Neill and his new release 'Wild Lines' - and - A concert from Andy Brown from our East Coast Sessions.

Mike O'Neill's music career began with the seminal indie-rock act The Inbreds. The duo, Mike on bass and Dave Ullrich on drums, rose to prominence in the early '90s, drawing the attention of the legendary Seattle label Sub Pop as well as the Atlantic Records' imprint Tag Recordings. The Inbreds eventually signed with Tag, toured the world, and made two more records before calling it quits in 1998. In their time together they garnered two Juno Nominations and reached number one on the Canadian national university charts. The bass and drums format helped set the band apart, but O'Neill's songwriting was what made the band relevant to this day. In 1999, O'Neill switched to guitar and set out to make his first solo record, 'What Happens Now' - That record was instantly added to commercial alternative radio stations as soon as it was released - As a result of this exposure, he won the first annual Canadian Music Week INDIE Award for Best Alternative Album. In 2004, Mike returned with 'The Owl' recorded at his home in Halifax. 'The Owl' was unanimously acclaimed and cemented his reputation as one of the country's most respected songwriters. Eight years later, Mike O'Neill has finaly released his pop masterpiece 'Wild Lines'. Each song is approached differently, having sounds that range from the explosion of the noon gun on the Halifax Citadel to the intimacy of a phone call between friends - It has hip hop drums and doo-wop harmonies, but because the production reflects O'Neill's tastes, the songs bear a familial resemblance - they make sense together.

There are a more than a few great rock acts coming out of Atlantic Canada these days, and Fredericton New Brunswick's Andy Brown is emerging as one of them. Touted as a performer that 'gets into your head and heart', the Galaxie Rising Star winner has a contemporary folk-rock style all his own, taking you on a lyrical journey that transcends a realm torn between love, happiness, and sorrow. His hit song 'Ashes' was featured in season 2 of ABC's 'Rookie Blue', and only a couple of hours after the episode, his song and album landed at #1 on iTunes Canada's singer-songwriter chart and the melancholy love song reached #2 on the chart in the United States. Andy's honesty as a song writer, expressive showmanship, and soaring vocals has made him a fan-favourite wherever he performs, from a quaint theatre in North Carolina to the sprawling hall of Montreal's Corona Theatre. In early February we invited Andy Brown into our CBC Halifax Studio One to record an East Coast Session, and this week on Atlantic Airwaves you'll hear the results of that performance.

On this weekends' edition of 'Atlantic Airwaves' - A feature on Rose Cousins and her new release 'We Have Made A Spark' - and - A Feature on Steve Gates and his debut solo recording 'A Bee In Her Mouth'.

'We Have Made A Spark' follows Rose Cousins' two multi-award-winning albums 'The Send Off' (2009) produced by Luke Doucet and 'If You Were For Me' (2006) produced by CBC in Halifax. Yet another collection of stunning songs by Rose Cousins, her third album braves weighty topics.
"We develop patterns that keep us from moving forward. It takes a deep breath and a bucket of courage to face the uncomfortable, painful things we work so hard to avoid. Reward comes from recognizing the obstacle exists and pushing through fear."
Rooted in authenticity and conviction of voice, from driving opening track The Darkness to stark piano ballad Go First, you feel as though Rose Cousins sings for you, about your life. It is that sincerity that leads some to compare Cousins to our most beloved songwriters, and yet, her passionate delivery is distinctly, Rose. From writing songs from a tiny cabin without electricity on a New Hampshire island to the stage of one her many international tour stops her lone voice reaches out to listeners, all of us surrounded by our own forms of darkness, and charges us to have the courage to forge ahead.


Recorded in a makeshift studio in a Halifax apartment and produced by John Critchley (Dan Mangan, Elliott Brood, Graham Wright), 'A Bee In Her Mouth' is Steve Gates' debut full-length record. Recording sessions started the day after a public talk given by Daniel Lanois during which he inspired his listeners to be reckless and trust themselves in the studio. The record features a number of prominent Halifax musicians such as Jenn Grant and Daniel Ledwell on 'Something New', as well as Rose Cousins on 'Down to the River'. Kris Pope (Acres and Acres, Jenn Grant, Down with the Butterfly) and Adam Fine (Gypsophila) each appear on a number of tracks, as do members of Steve's band, Caledonia. In this record, Gates abuses song forms old and new, filling them with his own stories and unique voice. The result is a record that is ragged and beautiful.

On this weekends' edition of 'Atlantic Airwaves' - An East Coast Blues Summit part 2 featuring performances by Morgan Davis, Linda Carvery, Matt Andersen, Carson Downey, Theresa Malenfant and Garrett Mason

For the full concert listen here

The east coast has been a hotbed of blues music for, at least, the past fifty years. Many styles and influences...country blues, swing, urban and jump, to name a few, have contributed to what is now an east coast sound and approach. CBC in the Maritimes decided the time was right to showcase this wealth of blues and to produce a musical special for radio, television and online. The East Coast Blues Summit brings together those influences, styles, and an incredible group of Maritime singers and musicians on one stage performing some of the music that inspired them as well as originals. Matt Andersen, Morgan Davis, Linda Carvery, Garrett Mason, Theresa Malenfant and Carson Downey are all award winning artists with deep blues roots and emotional delivery. The band is a special group of players, all being recording artists in their own right. From the very first notes of rehearsals right through to showtime there was an atmosphere of excitement and joy to be playing together.

On this Saturday's Atlantic Airwaves - two features - Dylan Guthro with his debut recording All That's True - And Steven Bowers with his new recording Boethuk Words.

Singer songwriter Dylan Guthro is proof of the old adage that the acorn doesn't fall far from the tree. Following in the fairly large footsteps of his Dad, Bruce Guthro, Dylan is set to join the family business with the release of his debut recording All That's True. And what is true about this recording is that he has learned his lessons well. The record leaves no doubt that this is a talented singer-songwriter with a very bright future. The songs are solid and sincere, and the musicianship superb.

Steven Bowers is a singer songwriter who is not afraid to put a lot of miles under his wheels. Originally from Newfoundland and having established himself here on the East Coast he now calls Alberta home, at least for now. Maybe that's what got him thinking about the impermanent nature of life and the fact that our little lives are brief fleeting moments in the overall scheme of things. Steven was back in Halifax for some shows and he dropped by for a chat about his new recording Beothuk Words.

On this weekend's edition of the program we'll have a feature on Allan Cooper and his latest release Rose Dale - Also, a feature on Music PEI Award winner Ashley Condon and album Come In From The Cold

It's been nine years since Allan Cooper released his last album, but now he's back with a new project he calls 'Rose Dale'. You might remember the New Brunswick poet and songwriter as part of the award winning roots blues group Isaac Blewett and Cooper from the late 90's. Since that time Allan has been concentrating primarily on his poetry, the lure of music could not be ignored. This time around Allan teamed up with his daughter Kate and some of New Brunswick's finest musicians to create a project who's musical landscape is larger and lusher that any of his previous works. Through this process Allan, who always tried to separate his poetic and lyrical writing, finally realized they both share many commonalities. Melody and rhythm being the most important.

Raised between two potato fields on Prince Edward Island, Ashley Condon is the grandchild of Bill Leblanc, a Canadian country pioneer who once spent the night in jail with Hank Snow. Like pecan pie - sweet and nutty - Ashley has won audiences over with her larger-than-life stage presence and down-to-earth charm. As a performing artist, Ashley has more than eighteen years of stage experience and a degree in Theatre Studies from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College; a testament to her strength as both a songwriter and entertainer. Last week, during the 2012 Music PEI Awards, Ashley was presented two trophies including New Artist Of The Year.

On this weekend's edition of the program we'll have a feature on Becky Siamon and her debut solo album Breakfast Epiphanies - Also, a feature on Caleb Miles and his recent release Strange Weather

On January 28th Becky Siamon will release her long awaited CD. It will be one of the events of the In The Dead Of Winter Festival. held in Halifax each year about this time. You may remember her from such notable Halifax groups as The Johnson Sisters and The Hurtin' Unit. But with her debut solo recording Breakfast Epiphanies, Becky serves up a mixture of music that draws heavily on the music she loves; blues, jazz, reggae and roots. The album release concert will be held at The Bus Stop Theatre on Saturday January 28th - showtime is 11:00pm.

Caleb Miles cut his musical teeth under the blazing sun of New Mexico's high desert, playing lead guitar in original rock'n'roll bands throughout the 1980s and early 90s. He joined The Illegal Aliens at the age of fifteen and continued his musical apprenticeship in bands such as Sundog, F.O.R., and A Murder Of Crows. Albuquerque at that time offered little reward for the aspiring musician, but it did foster hard-edged determination, strength of purpose, an outlaw sense of community, and an appreciation for sweaty bodies writhing in dance-induced ecstasy. His guitar sound is shaped by his desert days: sharp, clear, and dry like the sage-scented air. Lawless like the Old West. In 2005 he moved to Nova Scotia expecting to surrender to rural solitude and an early retirement from the stage. He has found instead a rich and rocking community of musicians, songwriters, performers and listeners with whom to share his ongoing musical adventures. In 2006 he recorded BRICKYARD ROAD, a rootsy assemblage of spare parts and previously unfinished tunes that served as an introduction to his new audience. In 2008 he released MEMORY WELL, featuring twelve new songs graced by contributions from several talented local friends. His latest recording, Strange Weather, is entirely a one man creation, from the production to the recording to playing all the instruments.

On this weekend's edition of the program - A concert from Ireland's Black Family with Mary Black, and a feature on Ian Alistair Gosbee and his latest recording 'Invisible'.

Featuring Mary, Frances, Michael and Shay, the Black Family is one of the most important musical families in Ireland. The Black Family started performing in the folk clubs of Dublin in the 1970s. While sisters Mary and Frances rank among the best-selling folk artists in the world, the three albums that they recorded with their brothers - Shay, Michael, and Martin - document the strength of this family collaboration. Their music was inherited from their parents - their father Kevin was a fiddle player from Rathlin Island, while their mother Patty, sang traditional and music hall songs. Michael, Shay and Frances performed at Celtic Colours in 1999, but this was be Mary's first time. And, what a time they had!

The acoustic guitar is and always will be synonymous with Halifax's music scene. It's an old city comprised of a vibrant collage of old school sounds with new school flavors. Nothing vibes with city quite like six strings on wood and no one embodies that feeling quite like Ian Alistair Gosbee. The multi talented singer/song writer has been grooming himself for a career in music since he was a five years old, sneaking down to the basement to wail on his brother drum kit in secret. Though his talent has earned him performances in Europe, the United States, and the Caribbean, Ian has always felt his most rewarding gigs have always been charity centered here in Canada. In 2007 he lent his talents to Bands for Breast Cancer, and was featured on CTV. In 2008 he showcased his abilities during the Human Rights Torch Relay concert in protest of China's abysmal human rights record and their being awarded the Olympic Games by the International Olympic Committee. Though he takes his career as a musician seriously, he's never afraid to have some fun, as he fronted Nova Scotia's favorite Kiss tribute Dressed 2 Kill. While remaining active locally and playing a whopping 180 solo shows in 2009, most of Ian's energies are currently being poured into songwriting. His first solo album 'Music' was release summer of 2011 and his follow up album 'Invisible' was released just last week. "I like to think of myself as an open musician. I don't want my music to become stale, so I'm always trying to expand on my styles and keep pushing myself."

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves we'll have a concert from Amelia Curran & Symphony NS - and - A feature on The BackYard Devils and their award winning debut self titled album.

Amelia Curran on stage with Symphony Nova Scotia - it's been quite a journey from busking the street corners of St. John's, but the real story here is the Poet-Songwriter's uncanny ability to deliver her insights into the human condition, no matter the venue. Sometimes sentimental, more often frank and revealing with a touch of wry self deprecation, Amelia's work ranks with the best Songwriting Poets of our time - each song a condensed meditation; a universe in a grain of sand.

You might be tempted to think that a lush Symphonic treatment might betray the intent of the self-confessed minimalist poet, but fresh arrangements by long-time friends Erin Costelo and Phil Sedore, along with settings by Rebecca Pellett are a sympathetic backdrop for Amelia Curran's very personal songs.

Symphony Nova Scotia is well known for it's successful run of collaborations with many of this country's finest songwriters - this time Shalom Bard is at the podium, and he conducts the orchestra with great aplomb. From the stage of the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax, Nova Scotia it's Juno Award winner Amelia Curran live in concert with Symphony Nova Scotia.

With their first album under their belt and 3 Music NB awards (Emerging Artist, Country Album of the Year & Group Recording of the Year) you'll find The BackYard Devils raising hell with their foot stomping music any place they can. And that's just the way they like it.

Fancy isn't a word often heard in Eastern Canada and there is nothing fancy about The BackYard Devils. They're simply playing the music they love. Their debut album is a well blended mix of dirty country, rockabilly and bluegrass. The musicianship runs deep in this band and although they're playing old styles they have managed to put their own twist to it.

When lead singer Erik Arsenault made a decision to move back to his hometown after a 4 year stay in the mountains of Alberta, big brother Remi flew west, and on the long drive home, the brothers laid down the foundation for The Backyard Devils. A dirty country and bluegrass band that would cater to young and old. From punk rockers to country & bluegrass fans. The brothers recruited Chris Belliveau, a talented and highly demanded guitar player with a love for roots music and Dillon Robicheau, a seasoned bluegrass mandolin and banjo player out of Nova Scotia to help create the vision. With a swinging guitar rhythm, doghouse bass slaps, smashing guitar solos and lightning quick banjo and mandolin lines, The BackYard Devils managed to hammer down their own sound in an old fashion style, just like the brothers had planned.

In January 2011, over three of the coldest days that winter, the band laid down 13 tracks live off the floor. With songs about guns, girls, god, drinking and outlaws, The BackYard Devils left the studio knowing that they recorded exactly what they intended to; an album that reflected what they sounded like onstage. From the first note, you can feel how much these guys love playing together.

On this week's edition of Atlantic Airwaves we'll have a very special presentation - 'A King's Christmas'

Seeing as it is Christmas Eve and all, we have a very special concert for you this week - The 4th annual 'King's Christmas',a presentation of readings and music for the season recorded at All Saints Cathedral in Halifax. The concert features the voices of The Chapel Choir Of The University Of King's College under the direction of multi Grammy award winning composer and organist Paul Halley and his equally talented son Nick Halley. The reader is author and university professor Alexander MacLeod who brings several readings from the Maritime region

The Choir had it's beginnings in the early 1970's with the purpose of leading the worship at the Thursday Eucharists at King's - In 2007 Paul Halley was appointed Director of music for the Chapel and since then he's built the group into an exceptional ensemble, which now includes touring and recording among it's activities.

Don't know if you caught the TV broadcast of of 'The East Coast Blues Summit', but if you didn't, here it is

On this weekend's edition of the program, music for the season from Atlantic Canadian Artists

On this weekends' edition of the program we'll bring you a concert from the 2011 Celtic Colours International Festival titled 'The Boys & Their Ballads' featuring Buddy MacDonald, Dougie MacLean, Archie Fisher and James Keelaghan

Dougie MacLean has been at the forefront of the Celtic music revival since the early 1970s. He was a member of such respected bands as the Tannahill Weavers and Silly Wizard. Since 1983 he has performed extensively as a solo artist and with his own backing band. At the same time he has established his own record label, Dunkeld Records, and a wonderful festival called Perthshire Amber. Dougie was presented the OBE (Order of the British Empire) for services to music and charity in Scotland by Queen Elizabeth.

An avid horseman and master guitarist, singer and songwriter Archie Fisher is Scotland's foremost troubadour and was inducted into the Scots Traditional Music Hall of Fame and in 2006 was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire), a prestigious honor nominated by his peers and bestowed by Queen Elizabeth.

James Keelaghan is one of the finest songwriters of this or any other age and is both a national treasure and one of the most popular male folksingers on the planet. His masterful story telling has, over the course of nine recordings, been part of the bedrock of his success, earning Keelaghan nominations and awards - including a Juno and acclaim from Australia to Scandinavia.

And Cape Breton's own man of song, Buddy MacDonald, completes this truly rare lineup of modern day balladeers. Born and brought up on the Northern Shores of Cape Breton Island, Buddy was exposed at an early age, to the singing and storytelling of some of the great Celtic singers of his native Island. Much of his song-writing is still influenced by this style he was so familiar with as a young boy.

On this edition of Atlantic Airwaves we'll have two features for you - Eric Angus Whyte and his recent release 'Luddite Sons' - and - Darren McMullen his latest release 'Shoes For Molly'.

In 2003, Eric Angus Whyte abandoned a short-lived dream of moving to Israel to work on a kibbutz - Instead, he recorded a collection of original folk songs called 'Always Home' - He wasn't sure it was the best idea but it certainly got him broke - Eric says the musical road doesn't pay much, but it does provide him with a never-ending supply of amusement - Since 2003 that musical road has taken him across Canada, south of the border and across the sea to Ireland, into prisons and resorts, churches and pubs, hockey rinks and Walt Disney movie sets - This past week, Eric released his most recent recording, Luddite Sons, which was recorded and produced earlier this year in Halifax by Canadian folk/rock legend, Stephen Fearing.

Darren McMullen has been behind one instrument or another since the age of four - first a piano then a guitar then anything he could lay his hands on - His list of on-stage weapons now includes mandolin, bouzouki, tenor banjo, whistles, guitar and bass. His first regular gig was with the Halifax band "The Cornerboys" - He chorded his way through the audition, told the band he was a traditional music fanatic, got the gig, and swiftly went home to start teaching himself some traditional music - But, once he found the genre, there was no going back - One job rolled into the next as Darren learned new instruments along the way. Since then, Darren has been busy touring and performing with a wide range of bands including the Colin Grant Band, J.P. Cormier, Pogey, Dave Gunning, Matt Andersen, Bruce Guthro, Matt Minglewood, David Francey and The Rankins. Last spring Darren hit the studio to record a new album. - Armed with his truckload of instruments and friends including Matt Andersen, Colin Grant, Jason MacDonald, Rachel Davis, Jason Roach, and Dave Gunning, Darren emerged with the recording 'Shoes For Molly' which he released at Celtic Colours back in October.

On this Saturday's edition of the program we have two features - Al Tuck and his new release 'Under Your Shadow' - and - The Once with their new release 'Row Upon Row And The People They Know'.

"Living legend Al Tuck is on a prolific tear and there's a superb quality to the quantity of his output, as evident on this gorgeous, unexpected record. After going years without easily accessible new albums, Tuck's affairs have been in particularly great shape since 2010′s Food for the Moon, his most cohesive and brilliant release until now. His focus remains sharp on Under Your Shadow, another gorgeous collection from one of the keenest minds in all of songwriting. The musical accompaniment is sparse and tasteful, performed with the deepest sense of craft and innovation, yet steeped in folk and blues traditions, where its sophistication might easily be underestimated. The focus though is on Tuck's cool, alluring voice and playfully dark, endearing lyrics, which help songs like "Slappin' the Make on You" (produced by Joel Plaskett), "Every Day Winning," and "Ducktown" charmingly cut a rug through your mind. One of a kind, Al Tuck's genius is brightly exhibited on Under Your Shadow." - Vish Khanna, Exclaim! Magazine

Since their first album was released in August 2009, The Once have seen exploding success. They've got four Music NL awards, two East Coast Music Awards and two Canadian Folk Music Awards on their mantelpieces; have played on national radio programs and at Atlantic Canada House during the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver and have shared the bill on an Irish tour with Juno-winning singer/songwriter Amelia Curran. It was a labour of love, of growth and of adventure, Andrew Dale, Geraldine Hollett and Phil Churchill said, that saw them taking more risks than on their first, self-titled album, and a huge step forward in their career. "The first record -- and we love it, we're not writing it off as a lesser work -- was, in a lot of ways, a much safer record in terms of material," Dale explained. "It was songs that we were comfortable with and we stuck with that, whereas with this album we really pushed ourselves to create something new." It comes down to being more comfortable and trusting in their own abilities, each other and the managing team and record label behind them, the trio says.

On this weekends' edition of the program we'll bring you a concert from the 2011 Celtic Colours International Festival titled 'The Boys & Their Ballads' featuring Buddy MacDonald, Dougie MacLean, Archie Fisher and James Keelaghan.

Dougie MacLean has been at the forefront of the Celtic music revival since the early 1970s. He was a member of such respected bands as the Tannahill Weavers and Silly Wizard. Since 1983 he has performed extensively as a solo artist and with his own backing band. At the same time he has established his own record label, Dunkeld Records, and a wonderful festival called Perthshire Amber. Dougie was presented the OBE (Order of the British Empire) for services to music and charity in Scotland by Queen Elizabeth.

An avid horseman and master guitarist, singer and songwriter Archie Fisher is Scotland's foremost troubadour and was inducted into the Scots Traditional Music Hall of Fame and in 2006 was awarded an MBE (Member of the British Empire), a prestigious honor nominated by his peers and bestowed by Queen Elizabeth.

James Keelaghan is one of the finest songwriters of this or any other age and is both a national treasure and one of the most popular male folksingers on the planet. His masterful story telling has, over the course of nine recordings, been part of the bedrock of his success, earning Keelaghan nominations and awards - including a Juno and acclaim from Australia to Scandinavia.

And Cape Breton's own man of song, Buddy MacDonald, completes this truly rare lineup of modern day balladeers. Born and brought up on the Northern Shores of Cape Breton Island, Buddy was exposed at an early age, to the singing and storytelling of some of the great Celtic singers of his native Island. Much of his song-writing is still influenced by this style he was so familiar with as a young boy.

On this weekends' edition of the program we'll bring you a feature on David Myles and his latest recording 'Into The Sun'

With his new album, Into the Sun, David Myles whisks us away on an exhilarating musical adventure that explores his long-time love of Brazilian and African music. Already known for his versatility and ability to fuse styles, David takes us further afield with this record by introducing rhythms and instrumentation most often reserved for world music audiences. The result is a sound that is uniquely David Myles. With influences as obvious to pop audiences as Paul Simon and as obscure as Brazilian icon Jorge Ben, David is the ideal tour guide. The surprising and intricate songwriting is framed by carefully constructed arrangements, soaring harmonies and flawless musicianship. At the heart of it all, is the songwriting that has made David a favourite with audiences and critics alike. A gifted and spirited writer, David often co-writes and collaborates with artists from across many genres. "Simple Pleasures" is his second collaboration with Canadian hip hop star, Classified. The Myles penned, Classified produced "Simple Pleasures" is a follow-up to a collaboration that started with Classified's own single "The Day Doesn't Die" - a co-write that features David's vocals. Into the Sun is David's fifth studio recording and his sixth album. Co-produced with Charles Austin and Graeme Campbell in Halifax, Into the Sun is an exuberant follow-up to the award-winning Turn Time Off, and takes us a little deeper in to the wonderful world of David Myles.

On this Saturday's edition of the program - A feature on Moncton New Brunswick's Phil Flowers and his award winning recording 'People People' - and a concert from Louisiana's BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet recorded at the 2011 Celtic Colours International Festival

Phil Flowers is five nights a week in a hotel room. Phil Flowers is a typewriter and a guitar. Phil Flowers is cigarettes and whiskey. Following the untimely dissolution of Moncton, New Brunswick's The Courage of Being, Phil Flowers, armed with resolution and an acoustic guitar, went off on his own with the intention of making music that reflects the anxieties of existence and the integrity of true art thru traditional forms. Under the heavy influence of American folk music, blues, and jazz, Flowers creates the perfect atmosphere for his fiercely imagist lyrics about social heartache, deception, and candour. Not long after Phil Flowers set out on this new endeavour, a handful of early recordings were made public, a handful of demos including one "Sonny Resident", and the masses were hooked, afflicted with a new aural addiction. Though often performing alone with nothing more than an acoustic guitar and a harmonica, Phil Flowers is often accompanied onstage by the Empty Seats a group consisting of Marc-Andre Belliveau(drums), Marc Landry (bass) and Mathieu Leblanc and If you may chance to bear witness to this collaboration, you will know that there is something unusual in the atmosphere. With passion and soul, you'll be brought to the summits of mountains and so far down into the chasms below. You'll be marked for many days and nights thereafter. .

Since forming in 1975, Grammy winners BeauSoleil have claimed their undisputed role as the most esteemed Cajun group in music. BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet take the rich Cajun traditions of Louisiana and artfully blend elements of zydeco, New Orleans jazz, Tex-Mex, country, blues and more into a satisfying musical recipe. From The Grand Ole Opry to Newport Folk, from concert hall to dance floor, the music of BeauSoleil continues to captivate audiences the world over. This was the first visit for Beausoleil to Cape Breton Island. Nova Scotia was the place where their ancestors were deported from in the 1750's - A long road home.

On this weekends' edition - two features - John Campbelljohn and his new release 'Celtic Blues Live In Hamburg' - Crowdis Bridge and their debut full length recording 'The Seasons And The Rhymes'

Nova Scotia's Campbelljohn has been touring Germany for several years, and in fact is so popular there, he has a record deal in the country, and has discs come out there unique to that land, or before they are issued in Canada. This time, he's showing us why he's loved in Deutschland. Recorded with a loving club audience, Campbelljohn is in solo mode for this disc, proving his mastery at slide, mandolin, and fun. Mixing originals with classics, he slips back and forth between John the Maritimer on the road to John the veteran German traveller. His closing number in fact is called Autobahn John, a funny take on his speedy ways up and down the highways of his second home. But it's not like he's denying his heritage; lead track No Philosopher tackles a common problem here in the East Coast scene, which has often been dominated by Celtic music, or the "fiddle music" as you'll hear some complain. Campbelljohn sings "would it hurt your Celtic colours if I paint them blue sometime?" He, no doubt, has felt this more than others, coming from Cape Breton, and often being looked over in favour of the Scots-Irish tradition.

Cape Breton's Crowdis Bridge are a folk-bluegrass band who have succeeded in riding their cool cadence to recent national radio airplay on CBC Radio 2's Drive...like local culture bearers, however, the band keeps with the qualities that make all traditional music timeless: familiar lyrical themes, a focus on musicianship, and a joyous swing capable of filling dance floors despite the absence of drum samples and amplified bass lines. Crowdis Bridge just released their first full length recording 'The Seasons and The Rhymes'

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Two features - Ian Foster and his new release 'Evening Light' - and - Rebekah Higgs and her new release 'Odd Fellowship'

Ian Foster is familiar with the cycle of a song. Since 2006, the Newfoundland-based songwriter has been writing, recording and touring his work around Canada and Europe. His latest release, The Evening Light, showcases songs inspired by the road, and by an examination of home that can only be made from the distance of travel. His music combines many of the classic elements of folk songwriting and storytelling with newer approaches to the genre. His albums contain a mix of traditional instruments (banjo, upright bass, accordion, violin and cello all appear on his newest release) and modern instruments and effects. He regularly plays both electric and acoustic live, making tasteful use of looping and delay effects to create a bigger sound than one would expect from a solo player. A road warrior, Ian spends about half of every year playing shows, festivals, and conferences abroad, and regular shows all year long in his home province. His music has been played on radio internationally, from Newfoundland to the Netherlands. He has been nominated for multiple MusicNL (Newfoundland) and ECMA (East Coast Music Awards) over the last few years (including SOCAN Songwriter of the Year), and has been a finalist in the ISC (International Songwriting Competition), based out of Nashville, TN. He also has numerous co-writing credits, including one with the legendary folk songwriter Ron Hynes.

It's been four years since Rebekah Higgs made a follow-up to her self-titled debut album. Since then Rebekah was busy with her alter-ego of Ruby Jean and the Thoughtful Bees. Now she is back as her own with the second album Odd Fellowship. The ten-track effort was produced by Brian Deck, the hard-working vet who has worked on major releases from the likes of Modest Mouse, Iron and Wine, and Califone. While Rebekah's sweet, playful voice, looped on her Kaoss pad, drives this album, Odd Fellowship is underwritten by a subtle maturity and songwriting confidence - an admirable journey for a former theatre student who taught herself to play guitar. An album designed to take the party from late night to lazy brunch, Rebekah experiments with musical styles, shifting gracefully from melodic folk to psych-pop, with big guitar licks and tight laptop beats.

On this week's edition - The Barra MacNeils in concert from the 2011 Bluenose Marathon Weekend

When it comes to getting an audience off their seats and to the dance floor - there are few bands better than The Barra MacNeils.

This family based band from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, has been touring the world for over twenty years with their unique brand of Celtic music. So, they were the perfect choice to headline the closing party at the 2011 Scotiabank Blue Nose Marathon race weekend in Halifax. Thousands of people participated in the event, running from five Ks. to a full marathon, and by Sunday night - they were exhilarated and exhausted. But, the minute the Barra MacNeil's hit the stage - they found new energy and danced the night away.

On this weekends' edition of the program - WOMEN IN TUNE - We'll bring you a concert from the 2010 Celtic Colours International Festival held on Cape Breton Island.
The annual Celtic Colours International Festival is nine days of music performed in towns and villages all over Cape Breton Island. These concerts bring together performers from all over the Celtic world. This concert, 'Women In Tune', was recorded at the Whycocomagh Education Center in the village of Whycocomagh.

The Celtic world has always been blessed with strong female artists and for this concert we have more than our share. Natalie MacMaster returns home to where she played many a fundraiser or square dance earlier in her career. This was a special reunion with her long-time pal and former band-mate Tracey Dares MacNeil. Motherhood and miles have only added to the richness of their music together. Liz Doherty combines her trio, Louise Hunter - fiddle, Jim Woods - accordion & bodhran, and Ian Carr on guitar, with gal pal Andrea Beaton (who is Natalie's first cousin). Irish harpist Laoise Kelly was so fabulously received last year that she just had to come back. Niamh Ní Charra is known from her Riverdance days as a fiddler, but in this concert we get to hear her first love, the concertina. And Mollie O'Brien shares the soulful and heartfelt songs that make the evening complete. Most of these amazing women are already friends or colleagues and have performed together before.

On this week's edition - A concert from Erin Costelo and Stephan Fearing recorded earlier the same day as part of CBC 75th celebrations.

We'll be bringing a special concert which we'll be recording earlier the same day featuring performances by Erin Costelo and Stephen Fearing. They will also be combining their talents by collaborating on a couple of numbers, the first time they've done so.

If you are in the Halifax Area, we would like to invite you to be a part of the live taping. It will take place in a large tent at the CBC TV site, 1840 Bell Rd., from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Admission is free.

You will also have a chance to enjoy more entertainment during Information Morning, Mainstreet, Weekend Mornings and Radio-Canada segments following our concert recording. Our radio and television hosts will join in the celebration.

Bring the kids, because Jeremie Saunders host of Artzooka! will be there to do crafts with them, there will be a Hockey Night in Canada area, and Whyatt from Kids' CBC program Super Why! will be on the look out for super spellers. Balloon artists and face painters will also be here.

There'll also be a display of radio equipment used through the years. And who knows, you might even spot a retired CBC host along the tour. And there will be a BBQ with proceeds going to Feed Nova Scotia and of course 75th anniversary cake.

Please join us on Saturday, Oct. 1, at our CBC Bell Road location and help mark 75 years with the CBC. It's going to be a lot of fun, because it's "Yours to Celebrate."

On this weekends' edition of the program - a feature on Carmel Mikol and her new recording 'Creature' - and - a feature on Young River and their self-titled debut album.

A triple nominee at the 2011 East Coast Music Awards, Carmel Mikol has always been a songwriter. From her childhood on a family farm in rural Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, to her current "home" on the road, Carmel has built her life around crafting songs, collecting stories, and carving poetry out of the human experience. After a year of touring extensively across Canada and the US with her celebrated debut album "In My Bones", Carmel recently returned home to Cape Breton to create her newest recording "Creature".

The members of Young River met at a three way intersection somewhere in Halifax, Nova Scotia. They write modern day nocturnes about the fine lines between secrets and announcements, lust and love, and good and evil. The sound has a history. It pays respect to the seeds of rock and roll and the sweet-nothings of love songs. Their self-titled debut album to be released in the late fall of 2011 is a lyrical expression of the things we all keep to ourselves, combined with sweltering guitar solos over due-paying rock and roll rhythms. With the release of their first record, Young River will be found chasing white and yellow lines, making noise, and doing time.

On this week's edition of the program - two features - Babette Hayward with her new recording 'You Might Be Somebody' - and - Andrew Hunter & The Gatherers and their new recording 'War Horses'

Babette Hayward has been named one of 10 finalists in the Mountain Stage Newsong songwriting competition. She is the only person from New Brunswick among the finalists and one of only two from Atlantic Canada. Now, Hayward and her lyrics are competing on an international scale. Babette Hayward finished her debut album You Might Be Somebody earlier this year. Some advance copies have already been released. She has signed on with Indica Records and the album will be released in October under the label. She'll also be able to tour the country with Indica and tour Australia with its partner label, Code One. Babette's inspired by her natural environment and says most artists often absorb inspiration from the world around them. The Maritime environment has influenced her music."My lyrics are inspired by landscape and I spent a lot of time growing up out in Belleisle Bay and I think spending summers there (has influenced me)," she said. "It's important for me to be in a kind of place of solitude when I'm writing and I draw from landscapes a lot." Lately, the artist has been playing mostly in the region. She's a frequent face at Bourbon Quarter in Saint John, the Red Herring in St. Andrews and the Capital in Fredericton. She recently played the Stan Rogers Folk Festival in Canso, N.S., and the Dooryard Arts Festival in Woodstock.

East Coast Music Award & Music Nova Scotia Award Nominees Andrew Hunter & The Gatherers are back with their highly anticipated new album "Warhorses".
Produced by Darren Van Niekerk (Matt Mays, K-OS) and recorded at Halifax's famed Sonic Temple, this is the first offering since their 2009 debut, which featured the award winning hit, "Feel Good Song". They have toured across Canada and since shared stages with The Trews, Hey Ocean!, Joel Plaskett, Jimmy Rankin, Matt Mays and many more.... Here's what the early critics are saying about the bands new sound: "One listen to the first single "One Good Reason" (which cracked top 30 in Canada) from upcoming record Warhorses reveals a band with energetic, power-pop sensibilities and arguably endless potential for success." - Ken Kelley, Times & Transcript Review
The new album Warhorses drops on September 20th and the band heads out on tour shortly after..

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - we'll have two features on two new Albums - Halifax based singer songwriter Bonnie Ste Croix's 'Canadian Girl' and Cape Breton's Carleton Stone and his new self titled release.

The album 'Canadian Girl' was conceived when Bonnie Ste Croix, the Gaspe-born singer-songwriter, whose roots-pop songs have several times crossed over to commercial radio, decided last year to move her family from Vancouver to Halifax to be closer to her ailing mother. As she contemplated the impending road trip, she realized just how at home she felt in each city of Canada and how much she looked forward to seeing her old friends and visiting her favourite landmarks. She began to see all of Canada as one big home town and decided to make an album to celebrate that idea. While Ste-Croix and her family cleaned out the old home, packed boxes and filled their trailer with camping gear, she also began making phone calls - booking studio time in each province and inviting artists to join her there. Traveling across the country, she stopped in the Western Provinces and recorded. Then, as soon as she'd settled into Halifax, she went back out on the road, hitting the provinces and territories she missed along the way and recording tracks with some of those regions' best-known exports. If there's such a thing as a timeless, classic, Canadian-sounding roots album, Canadian Girl is it. Ste-Croix's mellifluous, honeyed vocals are layered over gorgeous harmony tracks and sweet, homespun acoustic roots instrumentation. The players include multiple Juno-winning fiddler Natalie MacMaster, WCMA-winning guitarist Joel Fafard, Juno-winning singer-songwriter-guitarist Stephen Fearing (on the Six String Nation guitar), and legendary Quebec fiddler Claude Methé - along with his family band, Dentdelion. The voices include ECMA-winner Catherine MacLellan, B.C. Entertainment Hall of Famer Shari Ulrich, Juno-winning Yellowknife artist Leela Gilday, two-time CFMA-winning Newfoundland singers The Once, and WCMA-nominated Yukon songwriter Kim Beggs.

Carleton Stone, the charismatic young performer and soulful songwriter from Cape Breton honed his reputation in Maritime indie clubs. Now he's set to take the next big step with the release of his self-titled album, produced by Juno Award-winning Hawsley Workman (Tegan and Sara, Hey Rosetta!, and Great Big Sea). Carleton teamed up with some of Canada's most promising young writers to pen tunes for the album, including Hawksley, Emma-Lee, Morgan Cameron Ross, Ian Sherwood, Molly Thomason and Jamie Robinson. The creative energy was undeniable. "I've always written songs since I was a kid," says Carleton. " But the co-writing put a real spark back into the creative process for me... the light just went on." The new album, to be released on GroundSwell Music, was recorded at Blue Rodeo's Woodshed Studio with some of Toronto's A-list musicians. Drawing on Carleton's sweeping influences, the songs move from the cheeky guitar-driven pop-rock of Sheets to country-inspired Million Dollar Heart, co-written with Workman. There's gospel-influenced R&B, happy retro-pop, and even some radio-ready edgy rock.

On this week's edition of the program - Two features - Ria Mae and her debut recording 'Under Your Skin' - and - Ben Caplan and The Casual Smokers and their debut CD 'In The Time Of The Great Remembering'

Halifax-based songwriter Ria Mae is a complex person. There's Ria the songwriter, and Ria the performer - then there's Ria the poet, and Ria the person. All related but somehow different. But Ria's been given a great gift. The ability to be weave all those personas into one clear focus. Creating music - her music - Moody, melancholic and melodic she ventures into the depths of her vulnerability and surfaces with strength and clarity - and the voice; - enough character to crack the stoutest heart


The music of Ben Caplan & The Casual Smokers is diverse, ranging from poetic ballads to frenetic gypsy anthems, but even when the band delivers the roughest of bar room stomps, there is a surprising depth and musicianship to the songs. Expressive percussion, upright bass, violin, sax, clarinet, flute, and terrific use of call and response sing-along choruses all help Caplan & The Casual Smokers stand out from the masses influenced by the same sounds.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - The final program in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter ANDY BROWN.

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 6 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter and multi instrumentalist IAN SHERWOOD.

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 5 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter CHRISTINA MARTIN

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 4 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter and guitarist CHARLIE A'COURT.

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 3 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter NORMA MACDONALD

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 2 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be award winning singer songwriter DENNIS ELLSWORTH of 'The Haunted Hearts'.

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this Saturday's edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Part 1 in our Summer Playlist series - This week's co-host will be JUNO and ECMA winner MEAGHAN SMITH

Each week, all summer long, Stephanie will be joined by an Atlantic Canadian Artist who will choose all the music for the program - They'll talk about the music they're listening to and why we should listen as well - We'll also get a bit of an inside track on what's going on in their lives and music.

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves we have a very special concert - It's another in the Symphony Nova Scotia pops series and it will feature two of the regions finest female singer songwriters - Erin Costelo and Meaghan Smith.

Meaghan is riding high after her recent JUNO Award and an ECMA, and Erin celebrated this concert with the first performance of a brand new CBC commission written, arranged and performed by Erin with Symphony Nova Scotia. from Erin's smoky, soulful ballads to Meaghan's playful takes on serious matters of the heart, the two of them completely enchanted the audience at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax. They were backed up by the rich sounds of Symphony Nova Scotia conducted by Bernhard Gueller.

On this Weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - A feature on the debut solo instrumental recording from Donna Rhodenizer, 'Musically Yours' - and a feature on 'The Wood Buffalo Youth Song Project' from Keith Mullins, Thom Swift, Steven Bowers and the kids from ten schools in Northern Alberta.

Mulitlpe award winner Donna Rhodenizer is an accomplished songwriter and composer. Her song lyrics sparkle with imagination and humour and reflect a writer who has the ability to reach into the imaginations and hearts of children (and their parents!). She is a music education specialist who has been teaching elementary school music for over 25 years. She has written three song collections with companion CDs for elementary level students as well as co-writing a fourth book with fellow writer/performer Andy Duinker. Drawing on her experience as a classical violinist and her traditional folk roots, Donna is getting ready to release her first solo instrumental recording titled 'Musically Yours'. This collection is a delightfully eclectic mix of gentle waltzes, toe-tapping fiddle tunes and beautiful melodies. Donna created the musical arrangements for all the songs as well as contributing her playing skills on violin/fiddle, piano and accordion; and invited some of Nova Scotia's finest musicians to join her to create this recording.

A few years back, as a way to expand his school shows that he's been doing for the past ten years, Keith Mullins wanted to create something that was more along the lines of what he was all about. He approached Steven Bowers about creating a "Music Creation Workshop" for schools. He envisioned a presentation that was musical, educational, highly participational and could break down the mysterious walls of songwriting for the students. After doing about a dozen workshops around the Maritimes, he was blown away at how natural students are at songwriting, with a certain amount guidance of course.

Fast forward to last winter, when Keith and Steven were hired by the Municipality of Wood Buffalo in Northern Alberta to put on this music creation workshop and they were even able to bring Thom Swift along! The project is entitled "The Wood Buffalo Youth Song Project". They wrote 10 songs in 10 days, with 10 students in each of the 10 schools. They would start off by writing a song in one hour with the students. Then they would record the students singing that very song. After a one hour performance for the entire student body ending in the song they wrote, the three of three of them would head back to the hotel and finish off recording the tracks with more instruments and voices. Thom jokingly nicknamed the project "Daytona Songwriting 500″. At the beginning of the 10 days they had nothing. Dave Gunning, back home in his studio in Pictou County, had the tracks mixed and mastered 12 days after the project started. There was no debt for the record whatsoever and the municipality has already purchased 5000 copies for the students to sell like chocolate bars. At $20 a piece (at no profit to the Artists), that will raise a total of $100,000 for school programming.

On this Saturday's edition of 'Atlantic Airwaves' - A feature on Halifax based songwriter and guitarist Dan Doiron and his long overdue debut album 'Even My Guitar Is In Love With You' - Also a concert from Rose Cousins recorded at the 2011 ECMA weekend held in Charlottetown.

Music has been Dan Doiron's life since his first band in Junior High school, in Port Hood on Cape Breton. He's been involved in the music industry in Atlantic Canada ever since as a musician, music educator, studio owner and recording engineer. After spending 20 years recording other people's music Dan thought it was about time to record an album of his own material. For many years he played in touring cover bands, performing mainly in Atlantic Canada. His first recording was on the Halifax Q104 Homegrown Album in 1990 with his band called "The Issue". After that experience he got the recording bug and built a recording studio in Truro Nova Scotia, where he had settled. Over the next several years he continued to perform, but mainly focused on engineering other artist's recording projects. Dan has been very influenced by great guitar players like Robben Ford and Larry Carlton, who perform with more emotion than flash and who are most interested in the Groove.

Since her first steps into the world of becoming a professional touring musician in 2006, Rose Cousins has stolen more that a few hearts across Canada and The US, winning fans and a small room full of awards along the way. Her voice and lyrics seem to resonate with anyone and everyone who has an opportunity to hear her. They are honest ,emotional and full of conviction. Whether she's speaking to the loss of her grandmother who passed away at 91, dedicating a song to one of her dearest friends or commenting on some of the absurdities of life, it's hard not to love her.

On this Weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - a feature on 16 year old Molly Thomason and her new release 'Beauty Queen' - also a concert from the ECMA Group of the year, The Once from Newfoundland.

Molly's Thomason's first album, 'Through The Static' got her a lot of attention, multiple award nominations, a placement on Degrassi and two #1's on the East Coast Countdown. Two of her songs even reached the semi-finalist status in the International Songwriting Contest in 2010 and 2011. But with all that come the demands of the music business, playing shows, doing interviews, recording, writing; not much time for school and friends. Did we mention, Molly is 16 and attends high school in Antigonish.

The Newfoundland based, acoustic trio 'The Once' may have been happier but they can't remember when. Since the birth of their debut self-titled album in 2009, they have received four Music NL Awards, two Canadian Folk Music Awards and now a 2011 ECMA for Group Recording of the Year! With both Ireland and UK agents onside and some huge international touring announcements coming down the pipe, they are ready to live the Canadian Dream, emptying the bank account as they record their sophomore album and travel across the country to some major folk festivals including Winnipeg, Edmonton, Canmore and Calgary!

On this weekends' edition - WITHIN SIGHT OF SHORE

Scored for a unique mix of traditional and orchestral instruments, Within Sight of Shore is one of Scott Macmillan's finest compositions, and certainly his most personal, describing the sinking of his father's minesweeper as it approached Halifax harbour in the last days of World War II. Programmatic in the best sense of the word, the composition cleverly and movingly draws the listener into its story through a remarkable integration of musical genres. The torpedo blast, the ASDIC ping, the calls of the survivors in the frigid Atlantic waters are all graphically realized without surrendering the musical integrity of the work. This is a mature, complex example of contemporary serious music, with an emotional staying power that leaves a profound and lasting impression.

On this weekends' edition of 'Atlantic Airwaves' - A feature on Halifax based Norma MacDonald and her new release 'Morning You Wake' - and a concert from multiple JUNO Award winner Stephen Fearing.

Norma MacDonald is a singer-songwriter and an avid biology nerd. She was raised on AM country stations and Willie Nelson cassettes in her hometown of New Waterford, Cape Breton, but has made her home in Halifax, NS for the last number of years. On her sophomore recording, 'the forest for the trees', Norma manages to seamlessly meld her innate old-school country sensibilities with contemporary influences (Wilco, Patty Griffin, Bruce Springsteen) without losing a drop of authenticity. The album was honoured with nominations for Female Solo Recording of the Year in 2009 by both Music Nova Scotia and ECMA. It has been a staple on the CBC Radio 2 playlist, and her track "we're ghosts" has been featured on the hit CBC crime drama "The Border". The past year has seen her share the stage with folk legend Eliza Gilkyson, rising indie star Dan Mangan, as well as showcases at NXNE, the Halifax Pop Explosion and the Chicago Celtic Festival. Her third album "Morning You Wake", produced by Phil Sedore (Amelia Curran, Catherine MacLellan) will be released in June, 2011. She will be touring Canada extensively this spring and summer with plans to head to the UK next winter.

For the full concert click here

Stephen Fearing is known for mixing powerful lyrics, creative arrangements, and displaying brilliant guitar playing. The consistent quality of work produced, from his 1988 release Out to Sea, to his last Juno winning album Yellowjacket, has established his reputation as a solid and captivating entertainer, building a faithful Canadian and international fan base. Like many contemporary songwriter/performers, Stephen is not bound by any particular musical genre or category as will be evidenced in this concert. Stephen Fearing dropped by our CBC Radio Studio H in Halifax for an intimate sampling of some his material.

Two features this week - Kim Stockwood and her latest release 'Back To The Water, - and - Michael Bastarache and his debut self titled release.

While Kim Stockwood's world spills out well beyond the shores of Newfoundlandand Labrador, she is anchored heart and soul to this place. She seeks out what is special here and searches for a voice that will reflect her longing and love for the province. One way she has found to capture that voice is to go Back To The Water. When Kim left her beloved native spot eighteen years ago she could not have known the paths she would travel or the heights she would scale. Kim is an accomplished artist on many fronts, from singer to songwriter to television host and radio personality. These things she does with humor, grace, and class. Her hit songs, her awards and accolades, her solo work and her work with Shaye, have seen her mature as an artist. Her wealth of experience and her longing for home have laid the foundation for Back To The Water. This album is filled with the sound and fury of a place that surges upward with a fist of rock and grabs life from the sky's air. The album is enriched and enlivened by Newfoundland musical luminaries and session players who would shame the Nashville Scene. It is a great source of pride for Kim to have her wonderful Dad play with her. The power of the sea can be heard here, roaring beneath Kim's soaring vocals. The album, Back To The Water, is indeed a musical trip through the beating heart of the province. Surrounded by water, yes, her place is made rigid by granite pillars like those Cliffs Of Baccalieu, that Kim navigates so beautifully as she dances among the tunes of her native land.

At quite a young age Michael Bastarache realized that music had a huge impact upon him, but it wasn't until he grew out of his teenage years that he started to really hunger for music that meant something to him. He began poking his nose around every genre that agreed with his ears and searching out new-to-him artists. To his surprise, he ended up back where he started. he was listening to all the same songwriters that he grew up hearing his parents play, Howlin Wolf, Johnny Cash and Steve Earle just to name a few. It was the likes of these artists that lured him into falling completely for folk & blues music and pretty much anything that was generally played with feeling and emotion.

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - Two features - Ian Foster and his recent release 'We Begin Here - and - Breagh MacKinnon and her debut release 'Breagh MacKinnon'

When an artist makes enormous progress in the quality of their work from one recording to the next, one is likely to take notice and pay attention. Certainly one ought to and Ian Foster is a prime example of such an accomplishment. Already a proven talent, Foster's route as an emerging artist has seen him pass thought the labyrinth and onto a clear trail propelled by his narrative skills. Musically Foster also continues to expand his compositions, his sensibilities and dexterity evident by the use of viola, cello, violin and piano. The simple and lovely third release, "We Begin Here" is a fine example: mostly guitar/piano driven rounded out superbly with delightful cello on four songs, harmonica and a smattering of strings. Ian Foster regularly tours in Canada and abroad. His music is played on radio internationally, from Newfoundland to The Netherlands. He has been a finalist for the International Songwriting Competition and is a multiple MusicNL and ECMA (East Coast Music Award) nominee.


Although Breagh Mackinnon began taking piano lessons at the age of six, no one knew she could sing until a Grade 12 music teacher asked her to pick up a guitar, write a song and perform it in class. Within months, MacKinnons' first composition, "Pretty Lies" helped her win The Next Big Thing High School Talent Search. During the competition one of the judges' commented, "You're blowing me away with your writing. That's deep stuff. Not only the song writing but the chord structures, they're not coming from a teenager. You're an old soul to be able to write and arrange like that. If you recorded a CD, I would definitely buy it!" Once she turned 19, MacKinnon began to perform regularly at local pubs, festivals and musical events. Her song writing styling has been influenced by many genres ranging from her parents' vinyl collection, Nina Simone, Joni Mitchell, Aretha Franklin, Herbie Hancock, Iron and Wine, Ella Fitzgerald, Imogen Heap, and numerous musicians across the east coast of Canada. MacKinnon is now studying jazz at St. Francis Xavier University and has just released her first recording.

On this weekends' edition of 'Atlantic Airwaves' - An East Coast Blues Summit part 2 featuring performances by Morgan Davis, Linda Carvery, Matt Andersen, Carson Downey, Theresa Malenfant and Garrett Mason

For the full concert isten here

The east coast has been a hotbed of blues music for, at least, the past fifty years. Many styles and influences...country blues, swing, urban and jump, to name a few, have contributed to what is now an east coast sound and approach. CBC in the Maritimes decided the time was right to showcase this wealth of blues and to produce a musical special for radio, television and online. The East Coast Blues Summit brings together those influences, styles, and an incredible group of Maritime singers and musicians on one stage performing some of the music that inspired them as well as originals. Matt Andersen, Morgan Davis, Linda Carvery, Garrett Mason, Theresa Malenfant and Carson Downey are all award winning artists with deep blues roots and emotional delivery. The band is a special group of players, all being recording artists in their own right. From the very first notes of rehearsals right through to showtime there was an atmosphere of excitement and joy to be playing together.

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - A feature on Catahoula Brown and his new recording, 'Lonely Lives Here'

In 2005, Catahoula Brown released his debut CD, Cur Dog Blues, recorded at Redfish Audio in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. It was a collection of gritty songs about trains, frustration and love. 2007, brought the release of the much anticipated follow up CD, Let That Boy Boogie, which was nominated by both Music Nova Scotia... and the East Coast Music Association, for Best Blues Recording. Along the way, Brown has played such prestigious events as the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival and The Dutch Mason Blues Festival. He has shared the stage with such respected artists as, Charlie A'Court, Matt Andersen, John Campbelljohn and Morgan Davis, to name a few.

With his third full-length recording, Lonely Live Here, Catahoula Brown has established himself amongst the players who cannot only cook a great lick but can also serve up meaty tunes that have simmered to perfection. Drawing from the Country and Western traditions known in his childhood and merging them with emotions bred in experience, this album of roots-blues tunes is the finest and most honest work of his career.

Catahoula Brown will be releasing 'Lonely Live Here' at The Pearl Theater in Lunenburg Nova Scotia on Saturday May 7th, in association with the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Society. Show guests will feature many of the fine musicians who contributed to the album including Anna Ludlow, Irish Mythen, Jordi Comstock, Heather Ann Cameron, Mason MacLeod, Robert Clark and others.

On Saturday April 16, 2011 Atlantic Airwaves will be broadcasting a special two hour live show from The Georgian Room of The Rodd Charlottetown Hotel beginning at 4:00pm.

The program will feature performances from the following Artists:

The name Andy Brown may not be all that familar to Atlantic Canadian music lovers, but we predict that will change. Andy is a young songwriter and performer from the Fredericton area who, now with a solid band behind him, is slowly but surely getting some notice both at home and further afield. After working the circuit as a solo acoustic act Andy has emerged as a must-see (and hear) performer on the Canadian music scene. The 2010 Harvest Galaxie Rising Star winner is touted as a performer that 'gets into your head and heart'. His style may be contemporary folk rock, but he's made it's all his own - He takes you on a lyrical journey that transcends a realm torn between love, happiness, and sorrow. Recently Andy and the band won the North-American wide "Test Drive 2010" competition sponsored by Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings - They also picked up three 2010 Music New Brunswick Awards ("Male Recording Artist", "Emerging Artist", and "Pop Recording")

Drawing on influences from traditions of folk, bluegrass, pop and Appalachian music, the highly anticipated full-length release by Halifax, Prince Edward Island's Rose Cousins promises to earn her the widespread acclaim that she deserves. With a keen eye for observation, and a genuine sense of wonder, Rose weaves together imagery borrowed from her upbringing on a farm in PEI, with a strong wealth of wisdom. At times joyful, at times sorrowful, If You Were For Me expressly captures the plight of the lonely heart, on a profound journey. Delivered with a pure and unaffected voice, the listener can't help but be drawn in to her expertly crafted songs, emotionally intelligent lyrics and simple and infectious melodies.

The island of Newfoundland is a living entity. It was born from an apathetic sea and nurtured by a dauntless people; reared strong and stalwart; sculpted in equal part from ancestral traditions, fate and chance. In the summer of 2004, Geraldine Hollett, Phil Churchill and Andrew Dale found themselves at a summer repertory theatre company in the tiny, centuries old fishing community of Trinity, Newfoundland. Charged with the task of providing little more than an evening's worth of music and song for tourists and countrymen, the three wove their voices and instruments together to create what is now the critically acclaimed folk trio known as The Once. From unaccompanied ballads layered with "vocal harmonies thick enough to stand on" to exquisitely arranged shanties featuring bouzouki, banjo, bodhrán and more, The Once has quickly become the pride of Newfoundland and Labrador's folk music scene. Their subtle yet haunting folk sound has sold over 4,000 copies of their release in less than a year.

Recognized by his peers as one of Canada's best performing songwriters, Lennie Gallant is a native of Prince Edward Island now living in Nova Scotia. This prolific songwriter has recorded nine albums (seven in English and two in French), which have won him a host of awards and nominations from both the JUNOs and East Coast Music Awards. His album, "When We Get There" was nominated for a JUNO Award and went into space aboard Space Shuttle Endeavour in July 2009. Canadian astronaut Julie Payette chose the album for the astronaut crew to enjoy. He was inducted into the Order of Canada where it was said, "Gallant has garnered much respect for his hard hitting songs chronicling the lives of people dealing with tremendous adversity and serious issues. Songs like "Peter's Dream," "Island Clay," "Man of Steel" and "The Hope for Next Year," articulate the feelings of many caught up in desperate situations beyond their control, and at the same time celebrate the beauty of lifestyle and landscape with their strong poetry and stirring narratives."

On this weekend's edition - a feature on Racoon Bandit and their new release 'Into The Hills'

Racoon Bandit are quickly gaining steam in the non-steam era. The Charlottetown folk-rock quartet formed in 2009 in a well-lit porch. Started from story-driven folk songs between songwriters Fraser McCallum, Adam Gallant and Roger Carter, the full band maintains poetic lyrics with a driving rhythm section, three-part harmonies, and gripping guitar flashes. Equal parts folk-rock and alt-country, the Bandits' sound has drawn comparisons to early Neil Young, Wilco, and Frightened Rabbit.

Nominees for the 2011 ECMAs and winners of the 2011 Music PEI Video of the Year, Racoon Bandit has shared the stage with many greats including Hannah Georgas, Two Hours Traffic, The Mountains and the Trees, In-Flight Safety, The Grass Mountain Hobos and Erin Costelo. Following the release of their album, Campcraft, they have showcased at the ECMA's, the Halifax Pop Explosion and Canadian Music Week.

Currently the gents have a new release, a full-length collection of folk and folk rock songs that features Carter, Gallant and McCallum sharing writing and singing duties. Entitled Into the hills, the album was released on March 26, 2011.

back to the roots with features on New Brunswick's A G Olmstead and the Halifax based Modern Grass Quartet

New Brunswick's A. G. Olmstead may only be 36 years of age, but the music he writes and performs harkens back to an earlier era, to the days of the troubadours like Woody Guthrie, Hank Williams, Jimmy Rogers and A. P. Carter. A. G Olmstead recently released his second album which he recorded in Nashville with his good friends The Nashville Bluegrass Band.

The Halifax based "Modern Grass Quartet" is acoustically inspired jazz, bluegrass, gypsy, blues, classical and folk music. The Quartet pays tribute to a number of musical traditions, but leaves plenty of room for innovation and improvisation. Complex arrangements translate seamlessly, and Terrell's down home songs and lyrics are a sharp and comforting contrast to the tasteful, yet avant- garde musicianship. The Modern Grass Quartet is a breath of fresh air.

Check out the Catherine MacLellan videos from The Studio H Sessions - click here

Two features this week - Andy Brown and his recording 'False Alarm' - and - Kristina Trites and her self titles debut recording.

After working the circuit as a solo acoustic act, New Brunswick's Andy Brown has emerged a must-see (and hear) performer on the Canadian music scene. The 2010 Harvest Galaxie Rising Star winner is touted as a performer that 'gets into your head and heart'. Andy has a contemporary folk rock s...tyle all his own, taking you on a lyrical journey that transcends a realm torn between love, happiness, and sorrow. Now with a solid band behind him Andy Brown is making headway with his sophomore album, "False Alarm" a wonderful blend of belt-out ballads, folk-rock, and pop-infused hits, False Alarm will surely see Brown make a deep dent on the national stage. Recently the band won the North-American wide "Test Drive 2010" competition sponsored by Taylor Guitars and Elixir Strings, and three 2010 Music New Brunswick Awards ("Male Recording Artist", "Emerging Artist", and "Pop Recording" for False Alarm).

Born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Kristina Trites is a singer-songwriter who grew up on the outskirts of Halifax, Nova Scotia. She began her career by picking up the guitar when she was 12 years old, and within a week after learning her first few chords, wrote her first song. At age 13, Kristina began playing many bars and music venues around the region. Since then, Kristina has travelled back and forth from her hometown to Toronto, working with some of Canada's finest producers and songwriters, garnering interest both locally and across North America, showcasing at Canadian Music Week, the ECMAs, Juno Fest, as well for record labels and music publishers, and attending countless of song writing workshops and seminars. Recently Kristina released her debut album, a collection of self penned songs about her tumutulous past consisting of coming to terms with single motherhood stemming from an ex relationship at a young age, abandonment, and bouncing back to from the abyss to achieve a life that she is truly proud of.

We'll take you back to last fall's Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival for a concert of swampy blues from Halifax's Joe Murphy and Louisiana's Johnny Sansone.

Joe Murphy and the Water Street Blues Band are a "blues institution" in the city of Halifax. They've been playing every Saturday afternoon for over 20 years! Led by singer, blues harpist, slide guitarist and accordion player Joe Murphy, the band has released a number of album...s, including 2002's Some Rough Stuff with famed New Orleans bluesman (and Murphy's personal friend) Johnny Sansone.

And Johnny Sansone himself holds a unique and special place in Harvest Jazz & Blues history. He is the only American musician to play at Harvest in the days following 9-11. He was already in Halifax to hang-out and rehearse with old friend Joe Murphy when the North American air space was shut down. Johnny and Joe drove to Fredericton as planned and their's were some of the most inspirational and uplifting performances of the 2001 event, though certainly touched with an air of melancholy as most shows were that year. Johnny says he was looking for the opportunity to come back to Harvest ever since - a second chance to do what he does best - throw down some sweet Louisiana blues! And that's just what they did.

Here's a sample of what you'll hear - Joe Murphy and Johnny Sansone with 'Going Back To Louisiana.

On this weekends' edition of Atlantic Airwaves - a couple of features on the front runners for this year's East Coast Music Awards - David Myles and Dave Gunning - Each with 5 nominations.

David Myles has had a great year, but he's seen more than his fare share of the road. He's played the Olympics, The Paralympics, criss·crossed Canada, and The UK. He's been to Memphis, toured with The Vinyl Cafe and Joel Plaskett, and released his fourth album 'Turn Time Off'

Dave Gunning has had a lot of success over the years as a songwriter, performer and producer. But those who know him know that all the accolades and awards he has received have not gone to his head. He is as humble today as he was when he first walked on to a stage. When the Toronto Star wrote this of him, "The next big thing in the True North of Song, an artist as compelling, as assured and attentive to every nuance of the writing and performing process as Lightfoot, Cockburn and Stan Rogers before him.", his reaction was pure Dave Gunning.

For the best in Atlantic Canadian music join host Stephanie Domet Saturday afternoons at 5 past 5 on CBC Radio One and on the internet at www.cbc.ca/atlanticairwaves

A concert from The Studio H Sessions featuring Laura Merrimen

Laura Merrimen is an old soul who wears her Americana drenched heart on her sleeve. Keeping true to her roots she infuses a blend of rock and roll know how with an old-timey country and pairs it with catchy melodies and smoky sometimes haunting bluesy vocals. Some have compared Merrimen to a female Bob Dylan or Neil Young, others to Lucinda Williams and Neko Case, but you can't put your finger on it, the sound is uniquely her own. She is a prolific writer who delivers soulful thought provoking lyrics that are steeped in honesty and raw emotion. Laura's debut album 'Love Letters For Lonely Hunters', earned her the 2010 Music Nova Scotia award for Country / Bluegrass Artist Of The Year.

For this Studio Session, Laura was joined in studio H by Andrew Sneddon on Dobro, Adam Pye on acoustic bass and Tom Terrell on percussion.

A very special featuring Erin Costelo, Meaghan Smith and Symphony Nova Scotia

This concert is another in the Symphony Nova Scotia pops series and it will feature two of the regions finest female singer songwriters - Erin Costelo and Meaghan Smith.

Meaghan is riding high after three recent East Coast Music Award and one Juno nomination, and Erin celebrated this concert with the first performance of a brand new CBC commission written, arranged and performed by Erin with Symphony Nova Scotia - From Erin's smoky, soulful ballads to Meaghan's playful takes on serious matters of the heart, the two of them completely enchanted the audience at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax - They were backed up by the rich sounds of Symphony Nova Scotia conducted by Bernhard Gueller.

A concert from Stephen Fearing from The Studio H Sessions

Stephen Fearing is known for mixing powerful lyrics, creative arrangements, and displaying brilliant guitar playing. As is customary on Fearing's records, the supporting musical cast on his latest release Yellowjacket is of the highest order, including Dan Whiteley (Heartbreak Hill), Jeff Bird (Cowboy Junkies), backing vocalist Suzie Vinnick, Josh Finlayson, and Stephen's B&RK bandmates Colin Linden, Gary Craig, John Dymond and Richard Bell. The consistent quality of work produced over Stephen Fearing's two decades plus career has earned him a West Coast Music Award for Best Folk Music Recording and five Juno Award nominations as a solo artist and a faithful international fan base.

Here's a bit of a sample of what you will hear - Stephen Fearing - 'BLACK SHEEP'

A Feature on The Transatlantic Zodiac Ensemble and their EP release 'It's A Mean Season For Silver Linings'

The Transatlantic Ensemble is all about celebration of life and music. They were born in the intense heat of a midsummer's night in 2009 when Michael Dalton assembled the ranks for a one-off at a local pub. But what started off as a one-night stand would quickly reveal itself to be a mysterious love affair. The following year saw the septet mature and develop into an eclectic musical family, finding fodder for their music in faraway places. Their debut offering, 'It's a Mean Season for Silver Linings', takes inspiration from Eastern European folk music, Middle Eastern melodies, Indian ragas, American jazz, klezmer music, grunge rock, and much more, all set against the backbone of driving rhythms and street folk music.

A concert from our STUDIO H SERIES featuring KIM DUNN

Over a thirty-year career, Kim Dunn has become known as a musician's musician. A consummate keyboard sideman who has recorded and toured with a who's who of East coast artists including, Rita MacNeil, Bruce Guthro, Matt Minglewood, Jimmy Rankin, Lennie Gallant, David Myles, Jill Barber, Dave Gunning, and George Canyon. But there's another side to Kim Dunn; that of a songwriter and vocalist. After playing on countless recordings of other artists, Kim finally brought his songwriting and singing to the foreground with the release of his first solo project, 'Take This Hammer'.

Kim Dunn, along with bassist Tom Easly and percussionist Geoff Arsenault dropped by our CBC Radio Studio H in Halifax for a rare intimate sampling of some his own material.

The first videos from the recent 'Studio H Sessions' featuring Laura Merrimen, Max Keenlyside and Stephen Fearing

A concert from Catherine MacLellan recorded at CBC Radio Studio H in Halifax - Part of The 'Studio H Sessions' series

It's been quite a journey for Catherine MacLellan over the past few years. The daughter of the late Canadian songwriting icon Gene MacLellan, Catherine is following her own path toward success. With a voice like honey dusted in gold, MacLellan shares the gentle darkness of her lyrics, which are sometimes countrified, sometimes lamentful, and sometimes tinged with joy. She's already been recognized with East Coast Music Awards, PEI Music Awards and Canadian Folk Music Awards. After hearing Catherine there will be no doubt as to why she has become one of the most celebrated new singer-songwriters in Canada, and around the world, by her contemporaries and media alike.

concert sample - 'Stealin'

A very special concert - A Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King , featuring the Nova Scotia Mass Choir.

The Nova Scotia Mass Choir has been together since 1992. This multi-racial / multi-cultural group performed at the 30th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King's March on Washington, in Washington, D.C. and at the Southern Christian Leadership Convention in Dallas, Texas. So, who could be a better fit to lea...d a musical tribute to Dr. King's memory.

The choir has been presenting a concert marking Dr. King's birthday for several years and this year CBC co-produced the show which features some of the best gospel and R&B artists in Eastern Canada.

The N.S. Mass Choir have won two East Coast Music Awards and had two seasons on national television with the show 'Hallelujah'. Many of the guests on this show are award winners as well. Internationally acclaimed arranger, conductor and pianist Woody Woods was the musical director for the show.

So join us for this sensational concert at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax and shout "hallelujah" See More

A feature on Jenn Grant and her brand new recording 'Honeymoon Punch'

It was back in 2006 when we first met Jenn Grant. Her first recording 'Orchestra For The Moon' and her subsequent first steps into the world of entertaining were born here at CBC Studio H in Halifax. Fast-forward five years, hundreds of concerts, and thousands of road miles later, we find Jenn in a place that makes us happy. And judging by her new record, 'Honeymoon Punch', Jenn is certainly in a place that makes her happy.

- AND -

A concert from Natalie MacMaster recorded at the Whycocomagh Education Center as part of the 2010 Celtic Colours International Festival held on Cape Breton Island.

Natalie MacMaster is an electrifying performer whose passionate proficiency on the beloved four-string amplifies the traditional East Coast sound for contemporary times. It's a signature sound that has resonated with world audiences through 10 albums, multiple gold sales figures and 27 years; numerous Juno and East Coast Music Awards; two honorary degrees (from Niagara University, NY, and Trent University) and an honorary doctorate (St. Thomas University); the Order Of Canada - and a reputation as one of Canada's most captivating performers. She also has the respect and admiration of the crème de la crème of top-notch musicians: master violinist Mark O'Connor, whose camp MacMaster frequents as a guest instructor; legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma - who recently invited her to prominently participate as a guest performer on his 2008 holiday-themed album Songs Of Joy & Peace; banjo prodigy Béla Fleck; fellow fiddling marvel Alison Krauss; spiritually electrifying superstar guitarist Carlos Santana - the list goes on.

This performance from Natalie and pianist Tracey Dares was but part of a marvelous evening billed as 'Women In Tune'.

A video feature where we ask musicians the following 5 questions:
new this week - Thom Swift and John Campbelljohn

What's your favourite album?
Who is the musician you most admire?
What was the turning point when you decided to become a musician?
What was your most memorable musical experience?
What was your favourite concert?

A feature on Rawlins Cross and their new recording 'Heart Head Hands'.

Rawlins Cross, one of Canada's most accomplished and beloved Celtic bands, rekindles the magic with the Fall 2010 national release of Heart Head Hands (Ground Swell/Warner Music). This marks the band's first full album release in 12 years. - You can download a free three song sampler from the new album here

AND

A feature on Jon Bryant and his recording 'Two Coasts For Comfort'

Half a decade ago, Halifax native Jon Bryant packed his bags and journeyed across the sea to Europe to travel and unravel the thread surrounding his purpose in life. While backpacking across the hills of Austria and breaking the soles of his dirt-stained feet in Greece, Jon began to write songs. Described as a phenomenal experience, Jon felt he was figuring out who he was in relation to himself, his place in the world and who he was before God. After this remarkable year, Jon moved to Seattle, to volunteer at various ministries and churches, where he was personally mentored. While living there, Jon was inspired to live a life against society's expectations. The call to return home came and so Jon left and enrolled at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. During his time of art education, Jon became serious about writing music. He worked hard to craft songs that reflected truth, life and love. These songs ended up on his debut album Two Coasts for Comfort, released in late 2009.

We'll ring in the new year with a concert from a man who had a fantastic year in 2010 - Maybe his best yet - Matt Andersen

Because we will be pre-empted for network programming on Christmas Day, we'll be going flat out this week with seasonal music from Atlantic Canadian Artists.

A video feature where we ask musicians the following 5 questions:
new this week - Meaghan Smith and Stephen Fearing

What's your favourite album?
Who is the musician you most admire?
What was the turning point when you decided to become a musician?
What was your most memorable musical experience?
What was your favourite concert?

Part two of 'Songs and Stories' - A songwriter's circle recorded at the 2010 Nova Scotia Music Week in Yarmouth, NS featuring Charlie A'Court, Christina Martin, Stephen Fearing, and hosted by Old Man Luedecke

Charlie A'Court combines a rich, rhythm & blues upbringing with soulful, adult-contemporary songwriting, making him for one of Canada's brightest new stars. Music Nova Scotia's Entertainer of the Year in 2009, A'Court has toured extensively throughout Canada and abroad with headlining performances at the Stan Rogers' Folk Fest, Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival, Kerrville Folk Fest, and Ottawa Blues Fest. A'Court has shared the stage with high profile artists including John Reischman & the Jaybirds, Martin Sexton, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, George Thorogood, Harry Manx, Procol Harum, Colin James, and Blues Brother Dan Aykroyd.

Christina Martin can hold her own on stage, whether it's in a living room, a train car or in a stadium, she connects deeply with her audience. With a voice that elicits Sheryl Crow and Lucinda Williams comparisons, Martin is an acclaimed singer/songwriter who takes listeners into the caverns of their hearts, examining both the light and darkness. Whether she's softly serenading with an acoustic number; or perfecting her rock n' roll swagger with a band, Martin is at home in the spotlight.

Stephen Fearing brings a powerful mix of experience, skill, and creativity that comes from years of success working with musical greats such as Garth Hudson (the Band), Daniel Lanois, Pam Tillis, Malcolm Burn, Wayne Jackson and John Wynot. The consistent quality of work produced over Stephen Fearing's two decades plus career has earned him a JUNO Award for his work with Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, and a West Coast Music Award and five Juno Award nominations as a solo artist.

Old Man Luedecke is one of Canada's best loved and most intriguing roots singer-songwriters. His memorable melodies, poetic sense and easy charisma appeal to anyone searching for new growth from old roots, but it's Luedecke's contemporary lyrics coupled with the irresistible rhythm of the old time banjo that connect and make him so loved with his audiences. His latest album, Proof of Love, won the prestigious 2009 JUNO Award for Roots Solo album and won legions of new fans at home and abroad.

NOTE: Since this concert is too long for the radio program, here is the third round of performances beginning with Charlie A'Court

Part one of 'Songs and Stories' - A songwriter's circle recorded at the 2010 Nova Scotia Music Week in Yarmouth, NS featuring Kim Wempe, Thom Swift, Carmen Townsend and hosted by Old Man Luedecke.

Old Man Luedecke is one of Canada's best loved and most intriguing roots singer-songwriters. His memorable melodies, poetic sense and easy charisma appeal to anyone searching for new growth from old roots, but it's Luedecke's contemporary lyrics coupled with the irresistible rhythm of the old time banjo that connect and make him so loved with his audiences. His latest album, Proof of Love, won the prestigious 2009 JUNO Award for Roots Solo album and won legions of new fans at home and abroad.

Kim Wempe, Atlantic Canada's ECMA winning Galaxie Rising Star, is a vocal powerhouse. A 2009 International Songwriting Contest semi-finalist and Music Nova Scotia Award winner, Wempe is set to make waves from the Atlantic coast clear across the country with the release of her third record titled Painting with Tides this fall on GroundSwell/Warner.

Known for his down-to-earth charm, soulful baritone voice and skillful musicianship, multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Thom Swift performs a distinctive blend of roots-blues. Chosen by CBC as one of Canada's top songwriters in 2010 and recent winner of Music Nova Scotia's Blues Artist of the Year, he released his latest album blue sky day (GroundSwell/Warner) in February. Thom's debut solo recording Into the Dirt (2007) won an ECMA, a Maple Blues Award, a Galaxie Rising Star prize and two Music Nova Scotia Awards, including Musician of the Year in 2008.

Carmen Townsend, known for her raw and primal sound, has spent the last fifteen years of her life delivering powerful, energetic, authentic rock and roll performances on stages across the globe. Working tirelessly on her anticipated debut record with no signs of slowing down, Townsend recently caught the eye of Grammy winning songwriter Jesse Harris (Norah Jones, Bright Eyes) and has put her own rock and roll spin on two of his songs. One of the East Coast's brightest gems, Carmen Townsend is one to watch for.

NOTE: Since this concert is too long for the radio program, here is the third round of performances beginning with Old Man Luedecke

Two features - The Silver Wolf Band and their release 'Jam The Blues' - and - The Light Brights and their release 'The World's A Changin'

The debut album from Halifax's The Light Brights brings the rhythm and soul of the blues together with the hooks of modern indie pop as if the two genres were the best of friends finally reuniting after years apart. The awkwardness and embarrassment that often accompanies musical genre-mashing is nowhere to be found, and in its place is a welcoming set of sounds that'll sooth your soul as much as it'll make your shoes swing. While it would be easy to credit the album's successful conglomeration to the soaring vocals and stunning melodies courtesy of Bethany Fulde, The Light Brights' impressive rhythm section (comprised of bassist Chad Harrington and drummer Andrew Dahms) is not to be overlooked as the two gents have some serious chops and get your body grooving while Bethany's hooks implant themselves in your head, forcing you to try and sing along before you even know the words.

The Silver Wolf Band is rock & roll with folk rock sensibilities, texture, depth and energy along with a jazzy keyboard edge. This collaboration of musicians from Goose Bay Labrador and Charlottetown Prince Edward Island happened while recording a demo at a local recording studio on PEI in the summer of 2009. They asked local musician Dan Clarke to play bass for the demo sessions. That lead to him joining the three band members from Goose Bay as the bass player in this revamped version of Silver Wolf Band. The four song demo recorded last summer featured the upbeat power-chord driven "Violets & Roses" along with the hauntingly nostalgic, end-of-the-evening piano melodies of "Good Night in the City". In fact the songs turned out so well that the band decided to go back into the studio and record some additional tracks this summer. All seven tracks can now be found on their first album release "Jam The Blues".
The music is greatly influenced by the piano/keyboard expertise of Matthew Barrett, a recent graduate of the Jazz music program at St. Francis Xavier University. Jamie Jackman is the main songwriter responsible for the folk-rock flavour and heartfelt vocal delivery as well as playing guitar for the band. Additional members include Jamie's brother, Justin Jackman on drums and the aforementioned Dan Clarke on bass.

A feature on Chris Colepaugh and The Cosmic Crew with their new release 'Missed A Page' - and - A feature on Chastity and her release 'Happy In This Oblivion'

Chris Colepaugh makes southern dipped old-fashioned rock that bridges the gap between old school doubleneck guitar crunch and moaning alt-country pedal steel wail. He and The Cosmic Crew have performed at festivals throughout Canada and the United States and have toured extensively with over fifteen national Canadian & US coast-to-coast tours where part of his US itineraries have included dates with Government Mule, North Mississippi Allstars and Grady. Awards and nominations are plenty and include the East Coast Music Awards, The International Acoustic Music Awards, The Toronto Music Magazine Awards, the Contact East Touring Excellence Awards, the MNB Awards and many others. However, it is not just his Cosmic Crew that brings music to Chris Colepaugh, it's also his friends. An observer with a keen eye would have spotted him playing drums for Star Académie winner Wilfred LeBouthillier, playing pedal steel across Canada, France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Germany with International Canadian sensation Roch Voisine, invited by Gordie Johnson on stage to perform pedal steel and guitar with Grady, and playing sessions for artists such as International Daniel Pearl Fiddler Samantha Robichaud, multi-country-award nominees Melanie Morgan and Darcy Mazerolle, francophone artists Annie Blanchard, Anique Granger, Trisha Foster, Jason Lang and many more. And with producing securely under his belt ( he spent two weeks in Texas at Willie Nelson's Studio mentoring producer methods with Gordie Johnson ) there is no stopping this guy!

Against a unique backdrop of a video projection screen ship sail hung sweepingly on an angle and surrounded by a musical ninja clan of the best backing musicians on P.E.I. -- Chris Corrigan on guitar, Nick Gauthier on guitar, Chas Guay on bass, Shawn Ferris on keyboards, Paula MacIntyre on backing vocals and Alan Dowling on drums -- the fiery singer/songwriter blonde bombshell, whom Prince Edward Island has come to know as Chastity, stood poised on The Guild stage before a crowd of about 90, who were wrapped thoroughly around her finger. This was a CD launch that was a long time in the making since she recorded Happy in This Oblivion with Ken McCaul several years and a different life ago. Through songs such as You Give Life to Me, Forest of Angels and a new heart-aching piano ballad called Drowning in the Waves of Love, she transpors us all to each new personal dimension of song.

A feature on Ron Hynes and his new recording 'Stealing Genius'

Produced by Paul Mills at The Millstream in Toronto, many of the fourteen songs on Stealing Genius were composed while Ron Hynes was on a writing retreat at Woody Point in western Newfoundland. Inspired by works from some of his favorite authors and poets (including Michael Crummey, Stan Dragland, Randall Maggs, Donna Morrisey, Al Pittman and Des Walsh), Hynes has crafted a collection of remarkable songs that not only echo a life in Newfoundland and Labrador, but resonate with people everywhere.
The release of Stealing Genius comes hot on the heals of the world premiere of "The Man Of A Thousand Songs", a feature-length documentary, of which Hynes is both subject and star. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker William D MacGillivray and co-produced by Terry Greenlaw (Picture Plant) and Jordan Canning (Get Set Films), the film premiered to capacity crowds at the Toronto International Film Festival and subsequently garnered Atlantic Film Festival Awards for Documentary, Director and Audience Favorite.

Best known for his folk classic Sonny's Dream, Ron Hynes has eight solo albums and numerous collaborative projects to his credit. He is a six-time East Coast Music Award winner, a Genie Award winner, and a past JUNO, CCMA and Canadian Folk Music Awards nominee. Recipient of the 2008 SOCAN National Achievement Award for songwriting career success, Ron also holds an Honorary PhD from Memorial University for his contributions to the cultural life of his beloved Newfoundland and Labrador.
In the words of Sylvnaus Now author Donna Morrisey, "Ron Hynes is a grand voyeur in this rough, sweet life, a melody writer of the first order, a story teller, a philosopher, a poet and a kick-ass performer that makes my hair stand on end."

A concert from David Myles - and - a feature on 'Naming The Twins' and their recording 'Sweet Transitions.

Last May David Myles brought his full band to the intimate Hugh's Room in Toronto to celebrate the release of his latest CD Turn Time Off. The packed house that evening was treated to a musical ride with songs that ranged from blues inspired jams to country and gospel influenced sing a longs. The joke of the night was that since CBC was recording the show the intimate audience of Hugh's Room needed to sound more like the Air Canada Center with twenty thousand people - and at times it almost did.

Robbie Smith has been a songwriter, singer and player of instruments all his life - over the years he's written songs for, and appeared on stage with people like Roger Whitaker, Pete Seeger and John Allan Cameron. From the windows of his scenic home outside Shelburne Nova Scotia, his imagination takes flight gathering scenes and circumstances which flow back through his pen and onto the page. Robbie's been a solo Artist most of his life but recently he was struck with the voice of an acquaintance, Kathleen Glauser who he discovered has a fine sense of harmony, rhythm and natural singing ability. Together they decided to do some gigs - under the moniker "Naming The Twins". Through these gigs they came to the attention of Paul Mills, the owner of Borealis Records. Out of all this happenstance came a record - 'Sweet Transitions'

A concert from Ireland's Niamh Ni Charra recorded at the 2010 Celtic Colours International Festival - and - A feature on Ryan Cook and his new release 'Peaks and Valleys'

Niamh Ní Charra hails from Killarney, County Kerry in the south west of Ireland.
Equally talented on fiddle and concertina, she has won numerous awards, including Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Oireachtas, and Slógadh Náisiúnta. Somewhat of a child prodigy, she had represented Ireland at folk festivals in Britain and France and had support gigs for The Chieftains, and Noel Hill under her belt before she reached her teens. Mainly in North America, Niamh toured full time with Riverdance from 1998 until December 2005, performing in over 2500 shows. From Mexico to Vancouver, and Los Angeles to Broadway, New York, Niamh has delighted audiences with her fiery fiddling, fancy footwork and dazzling smiles. She shared her talents in Riverdance's Irish and Far East productions performing in her native capital as well as the more exotic locations of Tokyo and Taipei among others before retiring from Riverdance to concentrate on a solo career. She released her debut album "Ón Dá Thaobh / From Both Sides" in 2007 to much critical acclaim. It was the only Irish album to make MOJO's Top Ten Folk Albums for 2007. She was also presented with the "Best Trad Music Act 2008" award by The Irish World, the largest newspaper for the Irish community in Britain, and "Best Fiddle 2008" at the inaugural awards of The Irish Music Association, USA in 2009. Along with performing regularly as a solo artist, and with her own band, Niamh also tours extensively as a member of the Carlos Núñez band.

Niamh Ni Charra concert audio

On Ryan Cook's sophomore album Peaks and Valleys, stories are born somewhere between small towns and big cities, and packed with sudden bursts of romance and tragedy. An award-winning singer-songwriter from Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Ryan's sound is a smooth ensemble of Country/Western, Roots, Folk and Jazz music. In 2009, while performing in Nashville, TN during the CMA Music Festival, Ryan caught the attention of John Walker from WSM Radio. The two developed a partnership to assemble a killer cast of performers and record his upcoming album at the legendary Quad Studios. The result, Peaks and Valleys, features some of Nashville's most prolific players past and present including Lloyd Green, Andy Leftwich, Guthrie Trapp, Bruce Bouton and multiple Grammy-award winner Alison Brown. Staying true to Ryan's old timey influences, Peaks and Valleys resonates with the vintage sounds of steel guitar, clarinet, banjo and fiddle. His songs celebrate colourful characters forged between fantasy and fiction, en route to their highest peaks and often deeper valleys.

Ryan Cook feature - 'Peaks and Valleys'

A concert from Mollie O'Brien recorded at the 2010 Celtic Colours International Festival - and - A feature on Halifax based pop trio Dance Movie

Mollie O'Brien loves to sing. Jazz, R&B, blues, gospel, southern mountain traditional -- you name it. And she approaches each with an ease that makes you think she was steeped in the style since the first time a note left her throat. Growing up in Wheeling, West Virginia, one of five children, Mollie was exposed to music of every stripe, from performances by the Wheeling Symphony to concerts by Count Basie, Ray Charles, and the Beatles. She listened to singers -- Joni Mitchell and Judy Collins, Bonnie Raitt and Dinah Washington, Streisand, Sinatra, and Betty Carter -- and took voice lessons. Later, with her brother, Tim, she performed in church and at coffeehouses. All the while she dreamed of heading to New York to sing and act on Broadway and make a big splash in show business. After her sophomore year of college, she set out for the Big Apple, but the auditions were discouraging and gigs were few. She stuck it out for four years -- long enough to discover the irresistible pull of swing music and the stylistic stretches required for jazz. Eventually she moved to Colorado, where brother Tim O'Brien had already staked out territory in the booming music scene. So there's the story -- at least the first part. Mollie moved to Boulder in 1980, worked as a duo with Tim, and formed her own R&B band. Now, a couple of decades later, she's married with two teen-aged daughters and a firmly established singing career. She has been called one of roots music's best interpreters and singers, and her voice described as "smooth," "smoky," "powerful," and "bright and bold as sheet lightning." Once you've heard it, you're hooked.

The Halifax based pop trio Dance Movie is made up of Songwriter Tara Thorne, violinist Kinley Dowling and drummer Craig Jennex. . "The name comes from the film genre," says singer/guitarist Thorne. "I didn't want to perform under my own name, and Kinley and I both love dance movies. The godmother is of course Dirty Dancing, stretching through the Step Up series. "Dance Movie is a bit of a throwback. It's angst and heart ache married to rising pop choruses and melodies," says Curran. "I'm a big fan of shoegazing stuff; I'll never graduate from the early '90s -- Dance Movie reminds me of that era, only there's euphoric musical simplicity there. Each song is a mood swing; you're bound to be okay in the end."

Mollie O'Brien

Dance Movie

Two features - Kim Wempe and her recent release 'Painting With Tides' - Keith Mullins and his recent release 'Locomotive Farm'

With the release of her new full-length album painting With Tides Wempe channels that passion into a powerful collection of contemporary Canadian roots music. The album comes on the heels of her 2010 East Coast Music Award for Rising Star of the Year. Born in a small Saskatchewan farming town, Kim lived for a period in Alberta before heading to Canada's East Coast in 2007. After only three months in Nova Scotia, Kim realized that what once seemed a daunting and unplanned move was actually put in her path for a reason. The change of scenery and people provided the theme of Painting With Tides and nurtured a fresh view on life, home, self, and music.

Music has been a life-long passion for Keith Mullins. His roots are in Cape Breton Island, where a family and culture of music fostered his passion and ability. At the age of 14, he started entertaining bar crowds with fellow band-mate, Steven MacDougall (Slow-coaster). After completing a music degree and self-directed studies in Cuba and Africa, Mullins turned his passion into his profession. In addition to touring, Mullins developed and facilitated some highly successful workshops, including a drumming workshop, a salsa workshop (with an eight-piece Latin band partly from Cuba with salsa dancing) and a songwriting workshop with good friend Steven Bowers. He has delivered these workshops to groups of all ages; in schools, at special events, and at festivals across the country. He was recently nominated in Music Nova Scotia's 2010 Educator of the Year category.

A concert from the 2010 Halifax Jazz Festival - Chris Church and Freinds - Return To The Coast

Although Chris Church's foundation is in classical music, after university he found himself drifting away from classical performance as his interest in improvisation increased. Along with a strong classical music presence, Halifax is also home to a variety of other musical styles which Chris was drawn to. He got into jazz, pop and rock along with more avant garde improvisation with a range of talented musicians. Around the time Chris moved to Toronto, he started playing with guitarist Jesse Cook. It was at this point in his career that he started really listening to and playing styles from all over the world. Chris has always had an affinity for world sounds, playing at various world music festivals he could perform with and learn from other musicians. The musicians he toured with and met on the road truly opened the doors of world music.

A feature double bill on two new recordings - Ian Sherwood with 'And Now The Fun Begins' and - John Connolly with 'The Wind'

Ian Sherwood has learned a thing or two about music and performance over the last few years. He's been honing his craft as a songwriter and entertainer and has become equally at home in front of a large festival audience or a quiet house concert. His energetic stage show and honest presentation have quickly gained him recognition as a solid performer, lyricist and player and garnered him Music Nova Scotia's 2008 Musician of the Year award. On October 2nd. Ian will be releasing his new recording 'And Now The Fun Begins' with a show at The Company House in Halifax.

On Monday, April 19th, 2010 John Connolly posted this on his blog. "I'm back on PEI after recording last week in Nashville with Brian Ahern. Brian's been in the studio since the late 60's and it and it was really something special to work with him. Together with his long-time engineer, the great Donivan Cowart, we had a real good time making this record. It's a pretty natural recording...acoustic and laid back and I'm really looking forward to putting it out there." Last weekend in Charlottetown John Connolly released that album titled 'The Wind' - On the show this week, John talks about the experience of working with Brian Ahern on that record.

Two features this week - Jared Lutes and his recording 'Waiting On You' - and - Ria Mae and her recording 'Between The Bad'

Over the last ten years Moncton's Jared Lutes and his Duo/Band 'inTandem' have cornered the party gig market in most of New Brunswick and northern Nova Scotia as the busiest and most versatile act around. As an annual fixture at major festivals, urban hotspots, rural shindigs, countless fundraisers, as well as being the most in-demand entertainers at private events, the group has refined their talents through a relentless commitment to performing and improving. Now, several band demos later, Jared is repackaging himself as a thoughtful and driven solo artist with a world-class EP - 'Waiting on You' - featuring the best of his mainstream power ballads and guitar-driven pop-rock anthems. Although each song has been impeccably produced with radio and film in mind, the intimate vocal performances and the common thread of Jared's artistic vision are still clearly evident throughout.

Halifax-based songwriter Ria Mae knows there is a flip side to every coin. She calls both heads and tails on her EP, Between the Bad. She prides herself on telling it like it is. Her narrative-driven songs explore love, loss, forgiveness and redemption. Between the Bad is a five-track EP recorded at Spaces Between Studios, produced by Mae and Don McKay. "I've always been really affected by other people's feelings," says Mae. "When I was young I could tell when people were feeling a certain way even without any outward expression. I would often take it on as my own feelings." When she's not sharing the stage with acclaimed performers such as Amelia Curran, The Cliks and Hidden Cameras, Mae lends her talents to the screen. She recently starred as Emily, a renegade homeless musician in Snow, a film written and directed by Rohan Fernando.

'Naming The Twins' and their recent recording 'Sweet Transitions'

Take one seasoned singer songwriter and pair him up with an enthusiastic "fresh on the scene" vocalist, mix them together along with their love for harmonies, meaningful words and memorable melodies and what do you get? A keen new duo called "Naming the Twins". Robbie Smith who plays a variety of acoustic instruments, has appeared on stage with Roger Whitaker, Pete Seeger and John Allan Cameron, has been played on a good number of radio stations including CBC and WQXR The Radio Station of the New York Times and has made several recordings, including an elaborate solo CD titled "Retro Debut". An active member of the music scene, Robbie has welcomed Kathleen Glauser's fine sense of harmony, rhythm and natural singing ability to form "Naming The Twins". Performing original Robbie songs plus re-arranging and putting their stamp on favorite material by other artists, their energy tends to delight audiences wherever they perform.

Ryan MacGrath - 'Cooper Hatch Paris'

"Ryan is a rare songwriter; his songs are sharp, sexy, self-deprecating, and melancholic. His songs are perfect little stories about what goes on inside."

A feature double bill

Haunted Hearts and their new recording 'Howdy' - and - Glenn Simmons and his new release 'Swet vanilla and Other Flavours'

Based in Charlottetown, Haunted Hearts is an independent alt-roots/country band comprised of Dennis Ellsworth, Johnny Ross, Mike MacDougall and Mark Geddes, who has recently taken over for Blu Gillis. Since forming in October of 2008, Haunted Hearts have won two Music PEI awards, as well as receiving a nomination for the Rising Star award at ECMA 2009. The band has been winning hearts with their explosive live performance and their diverse and brilliantly received debut album "Thank You, Goodnight". September 25, 2010, marks the release of "Howdy", Haunted Hearts second full length recording in as many years.

As a member of the Wonderful Grand Band, and co-founder of the Fables, Glenn Simmons could easily be pigeonholed as a Celtic/trad-only musician. Dispelling any possible misconceptions is his first solo album, "Sweet Vanilla ... and Assorted Flavours." He says that creating and producing a solo album has been a very positive experience. "You certainly have more control, and I like that. When you're in a group, it's a democracy." Listeners will also be glad he finally took the leap toward giving the world a taste of all the flavours his music has to offer.

A Feature double bill

'Ashelin' and their debut release 'The Road Not Taken' - and - 'The Repercussionists' and their latest release 'Thank You Good Noght, I Hope I Didn't Offend You'

Kaliyan, Cassy, Joesie, Thea and Shaelin Palmer are the folk/pop band, Ashelin. Five sisters between the ages of 15 and 23 raised in Conception Bay South, Newfoundland. Influenced by their strong Irish background and Newfoundland culture they have developed an unusual and fascinating sound. Their new album "The Road Not Taken" was produced by the incomparable Grammy Award winner George Massenburg and by ECMA Award winner and one of the top sound engineers in Canada, Al Strickland.

The Repercussionists are a four-piece rock and roll outfit from Halifax, Nova Scotia. In the past two years they have released an EP, "Mistakes and All", and debuted their first full-length album, the self-titled, "The Repercussionists". 2009 saw a new incarnation of the band when percussionist Ian Macmillan and guitarist Christopher John joined founding members vocalist/lyricist Isaac Stowe and bassist Stephen Terry. The Repercussionists are currently touring in support of their new album, "Thank You, Goodnight.

Erin Costelo and Blue Engine String Quartet in concert from The Sir James Dunn Theater in Halifax.

Summer Playlists - Rose Cousins

We'll conclude our six week summer series where Stephanie will be joined by an East Coast musician who will choose the music for the program.

Summer Playlists - Matt Anderson

We'll continue our six week summer series where Stephanie will be joined by an East Coast musician who will choose the music for the program.

Summer Playlists - Thom Swift

We'll continue our six week summer series where Stephanie will be joined by an East Coast musician who will choose the music for the program.

Summer Playlists - David Myles

We'll continue our six week summer series where Stephanie will be joined by an East Coast musician who will choose the music for the program.

Summer Playlists - Old Man Luedecke

We'll continue our six week summer series where Stephanie will be joined by an East Coast musician who will choose the music for the program.

Two concerts this week - Both from the 2010 ECMA weekend in Sydney - Tim Chaisson and Morning Fold - and - Joel Plaskett

Prince Edward Island's Tim Chaisson was lucky to have such a large family, that introduced him to so many diverse forms of music. Tim entered the world of music in a family-based Celtic outfit. After years of touring and recording before reaching driving age, he recognized a yearning to perform his own music.While much of Tim's latest album 'Broken Hearted Beat' is spawned from his own seeds of creativity as primary songwriter, he notes that renowned musicians Joel Plaskett and Gordie Johnson were crucial in realizing the album's wide scope and boldness. It won 2 Music PEI Awards in 2010 for Group of the Year and Pop Recording of the Year.

When Joel Plaskett released his 2009 triple CD 'Three', he knew he was taking a risk. But so far 2010 has been one of the best of his career. On the strength of that release, aptly titled 'Three', he's added 6 more East Coast Music Awards to his collection as well as picking up his first Juno. He seems to have struck a chord with new audiences as well. "This album has taken me into different places - at the shows I see young kids and virtual seniors." During the East Coast Music Awards weekend held in early March we were fortunate enough to snag Joel and his band, The Emergency, plus a couple of his musical friends to perform a live to air concert broadcast from The Joan Harriss Cruise Pavilion in Sydney on Cape Breton Island.

Ryan MacGrath and his up coming release 'Cooper Hatch Paris'
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Ryan MacGrath conjures up old world aesthetic with a contemporary twist, fusing indie rock and cabaret crooning. His debut full-length Cooper Hatch Paris is a romantic, whimsical wander through the orchard of imagination. MacGrath questions the meaning of love, art, history and purpose. With a full-bodied, robust voice unlike no other, MacGrath explores both the light and the shadows it leaves behind. With the voice of an acrobat and the musicianship of lion trainer, MacGrath is a ringmaster who was born to sing. Cooper Hatch Paris sets the bar for his unforgettable live performance.

On the program this week - A concert from Matt Anderson recorded at The Capitol Theater in Moncton, NB

In many respects, Matt Andersen is 'larger than life' - His voice is large, his talent is large and to say the big man has a commanding presence on stage is an understatement at best. In the past few years, Matt has released an introductory EP along with two critically-acclaimed live fans' favorites, full length studio releases "Second time around", "Something In-between" "Piggyback" with harmonica virtuoso Mike Stevens and "Live at the Phoenix Theater". Along with a very busy touring schedule as a headliner at major festivals, clubs and theaters throughout North America and the UK, Matt has also shared the stage and toured with David "Honeyboy" Edwards, America, Randy Bachman, the late Bo Diddley, Little Feat and a host of others. He played over 200 live performances last year,including his fourth UK tour. The two time East Coast Music Award winner also won the 2010 International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tenn.; the first Canadian to do so. The audience at the Capitol Theater in Moncton, N.B. was psyched, to say the least, for the return of their native son and blues-man, and he 'delivered the goods'.

Dwayne Cote and Duane Andrews and their self titled recording.

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Steeped in the rich musical traditions of Cape Breton and Newfoundland Dwayne Côté and Duane Andrews twist their inimitable blend of East Coast Celtic and Roots music with strands of Gypsy and Jazz sounds.

Heavily influenced by the brilliance of Gypsy Jazz legend Django Reinhardt, multi ECMA award winning guitarist Duane Andrews has literally brought his music around the world from his home in Newfoundland to Tasmania, Australia with stops in between at the Newport Folk and Montreal Jazz festivals to name a few and the late great John Allan Cameron simply said it all about fiddler Dwayne Côté whom he called "the best kept secret in Celtic music".

Two features this week - Chrissy Crowley and her CD 'Departures' - Ross Neilsen and The Sufferin Bastards and their new release 'Redemption'.

Chrissy Crowley is the latest young celtic musician to emerge from Cape Breton, and is quickly captivating audiences with a talent that belies her youth
- Chrissy's passion for the music of her Gaelic ancestors should come as no supprise - She is the granddaughter of fiddlers Bill Crowley and Archie Neil Chisholm, and her great uncle was Angus Chisholm, one of Cape Bretons most legendary musicians.

Chrissy Crowley comes from the beautiful Margaree area of Nova Scotia, a place known for it's cherished musical culture. The music of the ceilidh resonates in the majestic mountains and peaceful valleys incorporating not only the tunes of the Scottish Gaels but also those of the area's Irish and French-Acadians. But Chrissy has taken taken the marriage of musical and cultural styles a step further. she is one of the founding members of the Canadian-Cuban Celtic Society, a group set up to promote musical contacts between young musicians from the Celtic parts of Canada, especially Cape Breton Island, and fellow Celtic musicians in Cuba.

The Blues never worked so hard or looked and sounded so good, until it met Ross Neilsen. To say that he is a dedicated, chronic over achiever would be an understatement. Recently, he has been honoured with a nomination for Best New Artist at The Maple Blues Awards, two Rising Star nominations from CBC and back to back Blues Album of the Year nominations from the East Coast Music Association. A true road warrior in every sense, Ross Neilsen spent much of the last two years living out of his van, on friend's couches and fan's floors so he could dedicate himself to his craft. He is out there doing it and he is not going to stop. Two albums in six months, 200 plus four hour shows a year and a log book of over 80 000 kilometers covering three national tours, Neilsen has shared the stage with the likes of Buddy Guy, The Black Crowes, Grady and Joel Plaskett. Ross Neilsen is a real, old school kind of artist. Write. Tour. Record. Tour. Repeat.

Old Man Luedecke in concert from The Rebecca Cohn Auditorium in Halifax

Old Man Luedecke has become one of Canada's best loved and most intriguing roots singer-songwriters. "An original, he is a musical singularity to be savoured and shared", says the Vancouver Folk Festival. His memorable melodies, poetic sense and easy charisma appeal to anyone searching for new growth from old roots. He is a young man with an old soul who doesn't sugar coat his fears and this lets his songs breathe with a fresh breeze of bittersweet hopefulness. He channels a refreshing energy from folk giants like Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger with maybe a hint of Loudon Wainwright III. But it's his contemporary lyrics coupled with the irresistible rhythm of the old time banjo that connect and make him so loved with his audiences.

While normally accompanied solely by his trusty banjo, this concert features Luedecke in full flight backed by mandolin, fiddle, guitars and acoustic bass. Instrumentation he used on his most recent recording 'My Hands Are On Fire and Other Love Songs'. Many of the songs from that release are featured in this concert sprinkled with some of his greatest hits.

Ashley Condon's new CD 'Come In From The Cold' will be released on Tuesday, June 15th.

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Raised between two potato fields on Prince Edward Island, Ashley Condon is the grandchild of Bill Leblanc, a Canadian country pioneer who once spent the night in jail with Hank Snow. Like pecan pie - sweet and nutty - Ashley has won audiences over with her larger-than-life stage presence and down-to-earth charm. As a performing artist, Ashley has more than eighteen years of stage experience and a degree in Theatre Studies from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College; a testament to her strength as both a songwriter and entertainer.

Two features this week - Laura Merrimen and her recording 'Love Letters For Lonely Hunters' - Ashley Condon and her recording 'Come In From The Cold'

With her smoky voice and heartworn songs, Laura Merrimen delivers Americana-infused country music that combines vintage arrangements with undertones of folky roots-rock. Merrimen's debut album, Love Letters for Lonely Hunters, highlights the singer's old soul. With influences that range from Townes Van Zandt to Lucinda Williams, the album is steeped with a lingering darkness.

Raised between two potato fields on Prince Edward Island, Ashley Condon is the grandchild of Bill Leblanc, a Canadian country pioneer who once spent the night in jail with Hank Snow. Like pecan pie - sweet and nutty - Ashley has won audiences over with her larger-than-life stage presence and down-to-earth charm. As a performing artist, Ashley has more than eighteen years of stage experience and a degree in Theatre Studies from the University of Toronto and Sheridan College; a testament to her strength as both a songwriter and entertainer.

The Stanfields new CD 'Vanguard Of The Young And Reckless' will be released next Tuesday, June 15th

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Meet The Stanfields, a maelstrom of rock 'n' roll, Celtic and bluegrass. Hailing from the gritty post-industrial towns of Nova Scotia, The Stanfields play every show like it's their collective last night on earth. Their kitchen party harmonies, thunderous rhythm section, high-octane stage show and genuine chemistry have won over audiences clear across the nation.

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Cape Breton fiddler Chrissy Crowley and her latest release 'The Departure'

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Chrissy Crowley is the latest young celtic musician to emerge from Cape Breton, Canada and she is captivating audiences with a talent that belies her youth. Chrissy is a traditional fiddler and recording artist who has recently released her debut album. Chrissy, born in 1990, lives in the beautiful Margaree area of Nova Scotia, Canada, a place known for it's cherished musical culture. The music of the ceilidh resonates in the majestic mountains and peaceful valleys, incorporating not only the tunes of the Scottish Gaels but also those of the area's Irish and French-Acadians. Christine Crowley is one of the new generation of fiddlers. She is inspired by the traditions of artists who have gone before. Chrissy has embraced the music of her celtic roots and has made it her own.

Erin Costelo and Blue Engine String Quartet in concert from The Sir James Dunn Theater in Halifax.

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Fredericton New Brunswick's Ross Neilsen and The Sufferin' Bastards release their new recording 'Redemption', May 25, 2010.

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To say that Ross Neilsen is a dedicated, chronic over achiever would be an understatement. Recently, he has been honoured with a nomination for Best New Artist at The Maple Blues Awards, two Rising Star nominations from CBC and back-to-back Blues Album of the Year nominations from the East Coast Music Association.

A true road warrior in every sense, Ross Neilsen has spent much of the last two
years living out of his van. Two albums in six months, over 200 four-hour shows
a year, and a logbook of over 80,000 kilometers covering three national tours.

Ross Neilsen's latest recording, Redemption, was recorded at the famed Zebra Ranch Studio in Mississippi and it's the first recording that bears the name of Neilsen's long-time backing band, The Sufferin' Bastards, with Shawn Worden on bass and Karl Gans on drums.

Whether telling tall tales or capturing the spirit of the blues through his own originals and unique covers in his intimate solo shows or combining clever lyrics with old school, in-your-face guitar playing with his band, Ross Neilsen will take you on an emotional journey through the joys and pains of life, death, triumph and defeat. Neilsen will touch your heart, soul, body and mind, sending you home to sing yourself to sleep. And in the
morning? You will want more, much more.

A feature on Brett Ryan and his new CD 'Salvation Radio'

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A feature on Air Traffic Control and their new recording 'Can't Kill Love'

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