BY JUDI
KOSKI
Gruff Country is not your standard country music.  In
fact, this inspired and talented young band out of Victoria,
B.C. challenges you to pin a label on them.
These women filter numerous folk traditions through the sieve
of modern experience to create a truly unique and Canadian
sound.
Influenced by styles from old-time country, bluegrass and rock
'n roll, these young songwriters harmonize songs of joy,
sorrow, and everything in between with energy and passion.
The Gruff is an impressive folk-country group that showcases
excellent vocal solos by Phaedra Kemp, Jenny Ritter and Terry
Upton. The harmony between the three ladies is exceptional, and
the songwriting is a compilation of stories they have collected
over the past seven years.
In 2007 they were nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award for
"Up-and-coming Roots Band", and also won the Vancouver Island
Music Award for "Artist of the Year."
Band members: Phaedra Kemp (drums/vocals), Jenny Ritter
(guitar/vocals), Terri Upton (double bass/vocals), and Adam
Iredale-Gray (fiddle/banjo). Guest performers on the album: Tim
Tweedale (Weissenbourn guitar), Adrian Dolan (fiddle), and Adam
Dobres (electric guitar).
A Trail of Missing Thoughts: Siren Smile, The General Store,
More Than Weary, King of Clubs, Silver Dagger, The Party Song,
J-Root Leaner, House of Cards, Handsome Molly, East For the
Winter, The Ginger Set, The Owl Song, Just For the Record,
Lucky Moon.
The Gruff is currently touring in Quebec and across Ontario.
This roots-country band from Victoria, B.C. will be featured at
the Towne House Tavern, 206 Elgin St. in Sudbury on March 8.
For information call 674-6883 or contact
www.thegruff.com
.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
