Viper Central and Georgina and the Gospel Giants on Twilight stage this week
Viper Central performs at Fraser River Heritage Park July 31 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
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Updated: July 27, 2009 11:39 AM
The Envision Twilight Concert Series is thrilled to present Viper Central at Fraser River Heritage Park July 31 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
What sounds like a heavy metal band from the 1980s is actually an acoustic ensemble specializing in ‘that old southern sound…”
A formally educated jazz guitarist, Steven Charles was drawn to bluegrass and old time for their dynamic energy and simple yet compelling lyricism. A co-founder of the band, he alternates onstage between upright bass and five-string banjo, his firm grasp of the music evident as he leads the band into one of his carefully-crafted originals, so authentic-sounding you wouldn't guess it was written in a thriving metropolis in the 21st century.
A gifted storyteller, Tyler Rudolph has lived and worked all over Canada as a guide, park ranger and ecologist. His intrigue with folklore is evident in his songwriting and his inventive bluegrass banjo is a natural complement to his funky clawhammer style, adding an element of adventure to the Viper sound.
The band’s informal technical wiz and a man of few words, Mark Vaughan’s relentless approach to the mandolin has rendered him a highly accomplished player. The controlled fury of Vaughn’s Monroe-inspired lead breaks is a testament to the band’s infectious appeal, witnessed in gasps of delight as he tears into a raucous rendition of the self-penned “Devil in the Hourglass.”
A classically-trained violinist, Kathleen Nisbet’s pure tone and calm self-assurance bely her years of experience. A veteran performer and session musician, Nisbet’s Metis roots were what drew her to fiddling. Though a relative newcomer to bluegrass, Nisbet’s facility of the material is nonetheless remarkable.
Complementing the sultry singing of Nisbet is the golden voice of Lorraine Cobb. A mainstay in the West Coast bluegrass scene, Cobb’s band, the Mountain Bluebirds, have toured extensively in Western Canada. Cobb fierce rhythm and solid timing galvanizes the Viper sound. A passionate vocalist with boundless energy, Cobb is a crowd favourite whose contribution is indispensable.
As if five ringers weren’t enough, the friends enlisted the services of Tim Tweedale on dobro. Originally intended as a recording project, the group’s surprising chemistry and undeniable potential made incorporation inevitable. A relentless arranger, Tweedale’s sound vision, dedication and attention to detail are something the band has built on. With his frequent mad forays into unexplored territory, both musical and rhythmic, it is clear the group will continue to evolve, pushing the boundaries of traditional acoustic music.
Viper Central’s performance is sponsored by Mission Association for Community Living.
The July 31 Artists at Twilight feature artist in the gazebo is Gina Esche, showing off her jewelry.
Georgina and the Gospel Giants
Georgina and the Gospel Giants will rock the Envision Twilight Concert Series at Fraser River Heritage Park Aug. 5 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The Gospel Giants offer a soulful, high energy blend of songs featuring hip vocal and instrumental arrangements and high-energy light contemporary, jazz, roots, and traditional Gospel. The Giants play huge R&B grooves, songs by Kirk Franklin, Annointed, Aretha Franklin, and CeCe Winans. The Gospel Giants are a lively five piece unit, led by Georgina Arntzen vocals, Tom Arntzen, vocals, organ and bass, and Curt Allison vocals and piano. Guitar and drums round out the rhythm section.
The Gospel Giants feature modern gospel music as well as groovy secular songs designed to strengthen and encourage your heart, not to mention get you dancing. This musically excellent group works for all ages.
Let The Gospel Giants spread the gospel of joy and song!
The performance is sponsored by Communitas Supportive Care Society.
Painter Doris Paterson is the Artists at Twilight featured artist in the gazebo.
Bring a lawn chair or blanket and head to the park. The Log Cabin Café and Blackberry Kitchen are open for business before and during the concert. Admission is free but donations are appreciated and encouraged. Your support along with the generous contributions of sponsors will ensure this series continues. For more information please call the Fraser River Heritage Park at 604-826-0277.
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