BRENDA GOUGH
News Contributor
An amazing group of bands has been confirmed for Parksville’s biggest party of the year.
Megan Olsen of Arbutus Events has lined up seven musical acts for the Canada Day festivities in the Community Park.
The stage will be rocking on July 1 with local original bands as well as other groups that Olsen hopes will create a musical festival atmosphere.
Headlining the Canada Day musical line-up is Bend Sinister.
The progressive Vancouver-based original rock band is well known in the Canadian indie rock scene and has toured with and opened for METRIC, Hot Hot Heat, Dragonette and Born Ruffians.
Bend Sinister originally began their musical journey in 2001 in Kelowna but now calls Vancouver home.
At the heart of the group is singer and keyboard player Dan Moxon whose soft spoken and warm demeanour belie the frenetic stage antics and vocal gymnastics that have made him one of Canada’s most unforgettable front men.
The band has been described as playing everything from metal to top 40 but their unique sound and energetic live shows is what has created a big fan base.
In 2009 they finished in third place in the Peak Performance Project hosted by Vancouver radio station The Peak.
The contest promotes BC musicians and since it started many of the top finalists have achieved success.
Olsen has been instrumental in bringing new and talented musical acts to Parksville and many of the bands she has booked here have been part of the Peak Performance Project.
"I like to promote young up-and-coming artists in B.C."
Olsen, who put together a stellar lineup of bands for Parksville's Canada Day party last year, said her mission is to bring great music to this area that people may not be aware of.
“There is local talent out there and my goal is to get people listening to newer music. When I started Arbutus Events my goal was to bring music and events that appeal to all age groups.
"I felt lots of concerts in the area were catering to baby boomers and older, but music can bring all ages together.”
Starting just after noon, the main stage on Canada Day will feature bands performing original music as well as some cover bands.
The first act on stage is Brodie Dawson, next is Ryan McMahon. Following them is local modern rock cover band Exit 51 who will get the crowd on their feet with their covers of ’90’s and newer dance tunes. Towers and Trees will follow, then it is JP Maurice who will keep the festival going. Local guitar master Wil, always guaranteed to give a fierce performance, precedes Bend Sinister which will wrap up the entertainment before the fireworks around 10 p.m.