Arboretum Festival: The Hammock Sessions (Secret Shows) – Saturday, August 23
As you may have noticed on the Arboretum Arts Festival Schedule, we’re presenting a few “secret shows” today at the grounds. Well, the cat’s out of the bag. The “Hammock Sessions” will take place this afternoon/evening by, yes, the hammock.
We’re really excited to be part of this festival, and have a hand-picked lineup of incredibly talented musicians right from the heart of Ottawa’s music community. The sessions will be short sets that take place between the main stage acts starting at 5:15 p.m. Here’s the low-down on the artists, come hang out with us!
5:15 p.m. – Sarah Bradley (of FEVERS)
Multiple award-winner Sarah Bradley has earned her stripes as one of the most prominent voices in Ottawa as lead vocalist and synth/piano in FEVERS. Her pop sensibilities guide her solo endeavours as well, with R&B influences also manifesting themselves in her music.
6:15 p.m. – GIANT HAND
Kirk Ramsay, a.k.a. Giant Hand, has built a repertoire of honest and emotive songs that has turned heads across the country. His simple, humble method is a distant echo of Bright Eyes, but the end result is a completely original and profound body of work.
6:15 p.m. – Andy Swan
Andy Swan has set himself apart with his deep-rooted country/folk music, piquing with his instant classic in 2007’s Ottawa (which included the help from Arboretum Festival’s Creative Director Rolf Klausener on bass). He has been a much-loved part of the Kelp Records family, and has proven himself an integral addition to Ottawa’s talented music community over the years.
7:45 – Bucko
Chris Binkowski, who goes by the stage name Bucko, is a phenom of sorts. While some would think an artist with muscular dystrophy may be limited, Bucko defies all preconceptions by offering an impressive electro/experimental show with lights and all. You may have seen him at Nuit Blanche and Chinatown Remixed over the last few years, and Arboretum-goers will have the chance to see what this man has to offer when he closes out the Hammock Sessions around 7:45 tonight. Check out his initiative Accessibility for Humanity.
