CityFolk Festival

Terry Steeves: “CityFolk marked the band’s second gig together with the new configuration, but their spot-on musicianship, on-stage chemistry, and tightness made it seem they’d already played thousands of times.”

CityFolk was packed Friday night as festival goers took in the sights and sounds of 54-40, William Prince, Flint Eastwood, Humble Pie and more. Marvest kicked off with free shows in bars and shops along Bank Street.

Terry Steeves: From behind the 30-foot high chain link curtain, David Byrne emerged, dressed in a pale grey suit to match the décor. Taking his place at the desk, he looked every bit the mad scientist as he scooped up the brain into his hands. In true David Byrne style, an artistic landscape of sight and sound was cast.

Terry Steeves: “The magic of her music and voice, and the truthful poetry in her words, stayed with me long after the show had ended. It had been my first exposure to Rose Cousins, and had left me a diehard fan forever.”

A short but sweet half-hour set by Ottawa-based duo Etoile Noire drew a roomful of listeners into The Papery at Bank and Fifth early Friday night as part of Marvest, CityFolk Festival’s selection of locally produced music.

Amanada Marshall made her return to Ottawa for the first time in nearly two decades with a stunning performance at CityFolk Festival on Friday night.

Fred Penner has a storied musical career that spans 45 years, 12 children’s albums, and countless live shows. He will be performing at CityFolk Festival on September 16 and chatted with Apt613 ahead of his show.

One man show Matt Lorenz, aka The Suitcase Junket, put on a spectacular performance at CityFolk Festival’s RavenLaw Stage.