Edmonton Folk Music Festival - Wednesday Night Report

Stuart, Ursa and I arrived in Edmonton last night, with time to unpack the trailer and have a very short sit down with Dad. Then it was time to pick up our pizza and be dropped off at Gallagher park. Mom had graciously agreed to be the line-up person for the first night and after all the lottery was done, she was the third person onto the hill! (We aren't front row people, so we got a "prime" spot: center stage, first tarp under the half-way walkway.) Stuart and I got there about 6:15 and it took half an hour to get through the gate.

The other thing I should mention is the weather. It's been a week of crazy storms: destructive winds, heavy rain, hail, the whole bit... so we've all been a bit concerned. The drive from Calgary offered steady rain from Olds to Leduc. But last night was amazing - mostly cloudy, a bit of breeze and a few spits of rain that didn't even get you damp. THANK YOU!!!!

I know, I know... what about the music? Meagan was first up and put on a great show. Nice voice, entertaining lyrics, she was really quite good. But almost everyone there was really waiting for Tracy Chapman. And she didn't disappoint. She turns out to be one of those ladies with an indifferent speaking voice, but absolutely fantastic when she sings. I don't know her albums off by heart, but I was really happy with the mix of new/old, popular and less known tunes. Wow, wow, wow!

Sarah Mclachlan finished off the night and unfortunately, a lot of people took off. I haven't actually seen her perform in YEARS and I was pleasantly surprised. She was always good on stage, but with a gap, her growth is very evident. She was relaxed, gracious and funny on stage. Her voice was always beautiful, but she has definitely learned to use it to it's full extent. She also did a nice mix of new and old favorites, so I was happy.

All in all, a highly auspicious beginning to the weekend!