Do you like banjos? How about mandolins? If you’re a bluegrass fan, you’re going to love The Slocan Ramblers, winners of the 2020 IBMA Momentum Band of the Year Award, and 2019 Juno Award nominees. Rooted in tradition, fearlessly creative, and possessing a bold, dynamic sound, The Slocans, as they’re known, have become a leading light of today’s Canadian acoustic music scene. With a reputation for energetic live shows, impeccable musicianship, and an uncanny ability to convert anyone within earshot into a lifelong fan, The Slocans have been winning over audiences from Merlefest to RockyGrass and everywhere in between.

Though the past few years have brought the group accolades, the group has known its share of tragedy and turmoil. Bandmates lost close family members and their bassist decided to step back to spend more time at home. The remaining members channeled these tumultuous changes into some of their most honest and direct compositions yet. Up the Hill and Through the Fog, their 2022 release, showcases the breadth of their varied influences while staying true to their roots in the rough and tumble bluegrass scene of Toronto’s no-nonsense bars and dancehalls. From Frank Evan’s classic, dusty vocals, to John Hartford-inspired lyrical musings, it’s all buttressed by impeccable musicianship, and emotionally raw songwriting from the three core members.

This is roots music without pretension, art powerful enough to cut through the fog and chart a more hopeful course forward. -EL

SUNDAY 12:20-1:35 Trad-ically Hip East Stage
SUNDAY 4:45-5:50 East Stage