The SpringFest has always lived up to its name as the first festival of music of the season, but this year’s schedule is especially crisp, with over half the lineup performing in East Coulee for the very first time.
Seventeen of the 33 acts slated for both Friday and Saturday night in the East Coulee School Museum are new faces, and SpringFest organizer Barb Steeves said it’s no mistake.
“It’s one of our mandates to feature up-and-coming artists. We always try to pick locals and others who are just starting to get their momentum, but we also bring in some old favourites that will draw a crowd.
Sam Lundell is an emerging Alberta musician who has been a finalist in the Calgary Stampede talent search competitions and is preparing to record his first album this year.
“I’m in the midst of a super exciting season of life, so I’m stoked for the opportunity to share some of my excitement and joy through music,” said Lundell, who plays at 7 p.m. Saturday in the Green Room.
This year’s featured artist is Crystal Plamondon, “Canada’s Cajun Cowgirl,” who’s scheduled in the community hall at 7 p.m. Saturday.
Plamondon sings in three languages and has been in the business for 20+ years and garnered quite a following both here and across the border.
“People drive for miles around just to catch her shows,” said Steeves, “no one leaves disappointed, and people feel like they’ve made a lifelong friend after seeing her.”
Alt-rock/country/folk artist Blake Unruly spent part of his childhood growing up in the valley is excited to return for the first festival of the season.
"I'd even go as far as to say I wouldn't be as 'unruly' were it not for the badlands. It means a lot to be able to play the festival."
Organizers are in need of additional volunteers for security on Saturday night. If anyone is interested, please call the school museum at 403-822-3970.
SpringFest starts at 6 p.m. to midnight on Friday and noon to midnight on Saturday at the school museum and the East Coulee Community Hall.
A detailed schedule and links to artists’ music for SpringFest is available online at ecsmuseum.ca/springfest
