In case you haven’t noticed, it’s festival time in Nova Scotia; musical attention is being generated all across this province. From last weekend’s blues & roots Kempt Shore Music Festival to the upcoming alternative Evolve in Antigonish, it seems like every music genre has a place to call its own…including country!
When asked why hold Ridgefest – a large country festival – in Port Williams, festival organizer Kevin Brown responded, “It’s a wonderful fit, why not? It reflects the thriving AG industry of the valley and, besides perhaps maybe the Exhibition, there isn’t a large outdoor summer music festival in the area. Plus, country music fans are abundant all across the province.†If there’s anyone who should know a thing or two about the country scene, it’s Kevin.
When he’s not rushing around putting the final touches on this Saturday’s, July 24th all-ages show, Kevin, from his home studio Skid Mark Productions in Wolfville, syndicates two major Canadian country music shows called Country Gold & Sounds Canadian with Jason McCoy. His industry connections have helped him attract some big names (read: Paul Brandt) to the line-up.
Having lived in the Valley his entire life, Kevin hopes the catchy name Ridgefest captures the surrounding beauty. “From our location at Willowbank Farms, the views of the ridge, Blomidon, Wolfville and the Minas Basin are absolutely stunning.â€
So, is this a one-time shot Kevin? “Come out and support it and we’ll be back. The expectation the first year is to create the mould and grow it from there.†Jason, a visionary putting idea into action, is most looking forward to seeing people have fun in the back drop of his hometown. The lyrics of Mr. Brandt, “The best things around that I have ever seen, come from small towns and big dreamsâ€, could never be more applicable.
RIDGE FEST
Willowbank Farm
Port Williams, NS. Saturday July 24th
Gates open at 11am,
music starts at 1pm
~Jeremy Novak
