We Are Story Tellers
Saturday at the 2024 Winnipeg Folk Festival unfolded with a captivating array of workshops and performances that immersed festival-goers in a tapestry of musical genres and cultural expressions. Those afternoon workshops moved into electrifying evening performances by acclaimed artists that demonstrated the festival’s commitment to celebrating diversity and creativity in music.
Shooglenifty, the trailblazing Scottish band known for their fusion of traditional Celtic music with contemporary sounds, mesmerized the audience with their energetic performance. Fusing fiddles, mandolins, and electronic beats, Shooglenifty’s music transcended borders, inviting listeners on a rhythmic journey that celebrated Scotland’s rich musical heritage while embracing modern influences. Tracks like “Venus in Tweeds” and “The High Road to Jodhpur” captivated the crowd, demonstrating the band’s prowess in blending tradition with innovation.
On the Big Blue stage, Moontricks delivered a genre-defying performance that blended blues, folk, and electronic elements with infectious energy. The Canadian duo’s seamless fusion of acoustic instrumentation and electronic production created a sonic landscape that was both soulful and dance-worthy. Songs like “Home” and “Soul Baby” resonated with the audience, showcasing Moontricks’ ability to push musical boundaries while delivering heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies.
As the sun set over Birds Hill Provincial Park, anticipation mounted for the evening’s headlining performances that would close out Saturday night with unforgettable moments on both the main stage and the Big Blue stage. Headlining the main stage, Band of Horses treated the audience to a spellbinding performance that merged ethereal rock with indie folk sensibilities. Led by the mesmerizing vocals of Ben Bridwell, the band delivered a setlist that spanned their illustrious career, including hits like “The Funeral” and “No One’s Gonna Love You.” Band of Horses’ emotive lyrics and lush instrumentation created a dreamlike atmosphere, captivating the crowd and reaffirming their status as modern-day folk-rock icons.
Simultaneously, on the Big Blue stage, Neil Francis brought his infectious blend of soul, funk, and rhythm to the forefront with a dynamic performance that had everyone grooving. Known for his soulful vocals and charismatic stage presence, Neil Francis energized the audience with tracks like “Changes, Pt. 1” and “Downtown.” His performance was a celebration of musical heritage and contemporary flair, showcasing his ability to evoke nostalgia while creating fresh and irresistible grooves.
Throughout the evening, the festival also featured standout performances from supporting acts that complemented the headliners, enriching the musical tapestry of Saturday night. Grace Potter returned to the main stage with her dynamic presence and powerhouse vocals, delivering a high-energy performance that spanned rock, blues, and folk influences. Songs like “Paris (Ooh La La)” and “Stars” ignited the crowd, showcasing Potter’s versatility as a performer and her ability to command the stage with charisma and passion.
Bonny Light Horseman continued to captivate with their evocative harmonies and timeless melodies, demonstrating their commitment to reimagining traditional folk music for contemporary audiences. Their performance was a testament to the enduring appeal of folk traditions and the power of collaboration in creating music that resonates across generations. Closing out the evening on the Big Blue stage, Dirtwire took festival-goers on a sonic journey that traversed global influences and electronic experimentation. The trio’s eclectic blend of acoustic instruments, electronic beats, and world music elements created a mesmerizing tapestry of sound, inviting listeners to experience music in its most expansive form. Tracks like “Riptide” and “Cannonball” showcased Dirtwire’s innovative approach to genre-bending, leaving a lasting impression on all who gathered to witness their performance.
Saturday at the 2024 Winnipeg Folk Festival was a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse backgrounds. From the enlightening afternoon workshops that explored the art of songwriting and traditional music to the exhilarating performances that spanned folk, rock, hip-hop, and world music, the day offered something for every musical taste and inclination.
As festival-goers reflected on the day’s events and looked forward to the final day of festivities, the Winnipeg Folk Festival continued to shine as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural celebration. With each performance leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds, Saturday at the festival reaffirmed its status as a premier event where music thrives and community spirit flourishes. Whether you experienced the magic firsthand or are eager to join in the future, the 2024 Winnipeg Folk Festival promises to be an unforgettable journey through the world of music, where creativity knows no bounds and every note resonates with passion and purpose.
Send us a message here
© Hidden Beats Corp. All Rights Reserved 2020