Must-see acts at this year’s Vancouver Folk Music Festival – part 1

Get out the blankets and hula hoops. The Vancouver Folk Music Festival is back July 15-17 at Jericho Beach, with a lineup that includes a diverse array of artists local, national and international, from as near as East Vancouver to as far away as China. Here are five must-see acts – with more to come in a second post.

Bruce Cockburn – Legendary Canadian troubadour, responsible for classics like “If I Had a Rocket Launcher,” “Wondering Where the Lions Are,” “Lovers in a Dangerous Time.” The 71-year-old hasn’t been out and about lately, so this is a rare chance to see the him live.

Lee Fields & the Expressions – The 65-year-old soul man has been likened to James Brown. Fields found himself back in the spotlight with 2012 album Faithful Man and 2014’s Emma Jean, which includes the single “Magnolia” (a JJ Cale cover).

I Draw Slow – Dublin group whom the Irish Independent called “one of the most beguiling and singular acts currently on the circuit.” Playing Americana, bluegrass and Appalachian flavoured trad and country tunes, the quintet is fronted by siblings Dave (guitar) and Louise Holden (vocals). Watch the band perform “Low Down Girl Like Me.”

Les Hay Babies – Still in their early twenties, the Acadian indie-folk trio of Julie Aubé, Katrine Noël and Vivianne Roy hail from three small Acadian villages in New Brunswick. They released their debut full-length album, Mon Homesick Heart, in 2014. It features the song “Fil de téléphone.”

Land of Talk – Elizabeth Powell formed the indie-rock band in Montreal in 2006. It’s been out of circulation for a few years now – their last album was 2010’s Cloak and Cipher – but we’re looking forward to a triumphant return when Powell and co. perform at this year’s folk festival. Watch the band perform “Quarry Hymns/A Takeway Show.”

For a full list of artists, schedules, and ticket info, visit thefestival.bc.ca.