DAVID FRANCEY (CANADA) + JAMES KENYON + LUCY WISE

 
7.30PM: DOORS
8.00PM: LUCY WISE
8.40PM: JAMES KENYON
9.20PM: DAVID FRANCEY

David Francey is a Scottish-born Canadian carpenter-turned-songwriter, who has become known as “one of Canada’s most revered folk poets and singers” (Toronto Star). Born in Ayrshire, Scotland to parents who were factory workers, he moved to Canada when he was twelve. For decades, he worked across Canada in rail yards, construction sites, and in the Yukon bush, all the while writing poetry, setting it to melodies in his head and singing it to himself as he worked.

A truly authentic folk singer, Francey is a documentarian of the working person who never imagined earning a living from his music. But when he was in his 40s, his wife, artist Beth Girdler, encouraged him to share his songs and sing in public. The reaction was instant. His first album Torn Screen Door came out in 1999 and was a hit in Canada. Since then, he has released ten albums, won three Juno Awards and has had his songs covered by such artists as The Del McCoury Band, The Rankin Family, James Keelaghan and Tracy Grammer.

Francey also had the honour of receiving the prestigious SOCAN Folk Music Award as well as taking home the Grand Prize in both theInternational Acoustic Music Award and in the Folk category for the John Lennon Songwriting Award.

In concert David is a singer and a storyteller. His wry humour and astute observations combined with his open-hearted singing style have earned him a loyal following.

“David’s straightforward songs tell honest stories of real people and real places. Poetic perception and a keen eye for the heart of the matter are trademarks of the man and his music. His songs and stories are a direct connection for audiences seeking depth and meaning in the day-to-day.” Shelter Valley Folk Festival

James Kenyon released one of our favourite albums in 2012 called The North Pole. He has been busy writing and recording a follow up, and will bring a mix of old and new tunes on his return to the Folk Club. Check out his beautiful tune ’35 Degrees’ and fall in love.

Lucy Wise will kick the night off with a solo set. Much loved on the festival scene, Lucy has released two albums with her band ‘The B’Gollies’ and is currently performing with her band, the Lucy Wise Trio.

“A wonderfully natural singer and uncommonly gifted writer. Prediction: within this decade Lucy will be a noted songster, worldwide” Doug Spencer, ABC Radio National