Irricana AB.  

July 20 / 2024

MATT BLAIS

Bio:  Roots-rock troubadour Matt Blais goes in search of authenticity, passionately advocating for connection. As a singer-songwriter, recording artist, and touring live performer, he has developed a purpose-driven creative life that inspires that connection in listeners. Performing meaningful songs with his signature belting vocals and harmonica work, Blais has built a full-time career with fans across Canada. Matt Blais is the former Calgary Songwriter in Residence, has collaborated with Sam Roberts, played over a thousand shows, opened for acts such as Blue Rodeo and Collective Soul, at venues like the Coca-Cola Stage, and been awarded with "Male Artist of the Year" at the Calgary Music Awards and "Best Rock Song" at The Great American Song Contest, he continues to solidify his reputation as a musical force both on and off the stage.

Shannon Smith

Rarely does a performer come along with such unbridled energy, dedication and natural talent as that of Shannon Smith. Her music is influenced by the poise and traditionalism of Lorrie Morgan, the showmanship and flare of Shania Twain and the strength of Sheryl Crow. No genre is off limits, whether it be driving country or classic rock, as is evident by her medleys of 80’s and modern dance hits. Shannon was thrilled to be the Winner of the Country 105/Lammle’s Rising Star Contest held at Ranchman’s, Calgary and more recently Winner of Ranchman’s Battle of the Bands in 2020. She has graced the stage of several top-notch venues and events throughout Alberta, including the Big Valley Jamboree and the Alberta Pro Rodeo circuit. Shannon has opened for Canadian country recording artist Chad Brownlee as well as super group Lonestar, Johnny Reid, Duane Steele, Julian Austin and Aaron Pritchett. Shannon released her debut album “Tell Me Something,” charting five singles that garnered her much attention at Canadian radio. Her fourth single “Settle Down” reached #2 on the Hot Country 50 chart in Queensland, Australia, landing her between Eric Church’s “Drink In My Hand” and Lady Antebellum’s “We Owned The Night”. “Take Me Drunk# I’m Home” and “Can’t Have My Heart” highlighted the overall strength of Shannon’s album. The new album “I Hate Long Goodbyes,” includes collaborations with Patricia Conroy, “Nashville Star” winner Angela Hacker and songwriter Wade Kirby(I Saw God Today, George Strait). Accolades include Female Vocalist Of The Year and Fan’s Choice nominations by the Alberta Country Music Association. With the upcoming release of Shannon’s new iPhone artist app and her weekly webisode series, 2021 is promising to be a ground-breaking year. While maintaining her girl-next-door charm and honest sincerity, Shannon Smith’s star continues to quickly rise. This beautiful and talented singer’s unmistakable style and distinct sound is sure to draw rave reviews and serious attention throughout the music industry.

MARIYA STOKES

If Kacey Musgraves and Lake Street Dive had a country-soul love-child, the result would be Calgary, Canada-based country artist Mariya Stokes. Known for her distinct retro style and quirky sense of humor, Country Music Alberta's two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year is on the cusp of releasing her fifth single, “You Want Me.” Produced by Juno Award-winners Spencer Cheyne and Justin Kudding, the song is slated to release in February 2024 and is the first single off her debut full-length album. Growing up in Stavely, Alberta, an hour south of Calgary, Stokes spent time sneaking into the local bar on Friday afternoons to sing with the local jam band. Now a seasoned performer, she has opened for Doc Walker, Trixie Mattel, and Jade Eagleson. Her small-town, community-minded values have followed her to the big city: Stokes was an artist representative on the 2022 Canadian Country Music Association Host Committee and a 2020 Artist in Residence at the Women's Centre of Calgary. Whether moonlighting as a ghost vocalist for the European pop project Hearts On The Run (Universal Music Group Norway) or heading to Austin, TX, with Travel Alberta to represent her home province internationally, Stokes' authenticity, work ethic, and 1970s ‘fits are unmistakable.

ROBERT GOSSE

Robert has been entertaining Calgarians, Companies, Charities and Honky Tonks for the better part of 15 years and has built relationships on a solid pro performance, “keepin it country and keepin it classy”, as integrity is of the upmost importance.  Born and raised in Calgary Robert has a foundation of country music literally in his roots! Having his sister Marina in his band playing bass guitar, and periodically sharing the stage with his Father Bobby, who is also a Country Music Entertainer.

Being no stranger to the big stage and big crowds, Robert was blessed to close out 2022 Country Thunder Alberta, all 3 nights. By far his most memorable performance to date, next to kicking off The Calgary Stampede 2023 at the Palace theatre in Calgary with Gord Bamford and Garrett Gregory, a close tie!
Robert also performs regularly at numerous live music venues in Calgary such as Big Als, The Whiskey Rose and Ranchmans!

Through his charity work with Zero Hungry Kids, Kids Care Cancer Foundation, and Enbridge Tour Alberta For Cancer, Robert has had the opportunity to open for dozens of Canadian Country Artists over the years, such as Gord Bamford, Aaron Pritchett, Aaron Goodvin, Adam Gregory, George Canyon, Meghan Patrick, The Road Hammers, Bobby Wills, Charlie Major, and Tim Hicks.    Radio releases include “Blackjack” and “Drink Em if you got Em” 

VINYL TRAX

Vinyl Trax... Jukebox Rockabilly Personified Darren Prebushewski Guitar/Vocals Steve Legault Bass/ Vocals Curt Rock Drums/Vocals Vinyl Trax presents a great mix of swing, rock, and country, all with a little upbeat rockabilly style. Enjoy an absolutely fantastic mix to dance the night away. And now we have original music to add to the mix of jukebox rock delight!

Double Suede

DoubleSuede is a modern blending of the classic sounds of 50’s & 60’s Rock and Country. This duo features a hard to describe sound because you can’t believe it’s only two musicians performing. Casey Shalala is on the upright bass. With his unique slap and pop style he manages to be equal parts bassist and drummer. Recently seen on the hit tv show “Virgin River” Casey is a captivating presence that everyone remembers when the show is over. Matt Beatty is both the guitarist and vocalist. His reverb “slab back echo” guitar style is equal parts vintage and room filling. Matt’s vocals can tackle any style from Hank & Elvis to Tom Jones and Brian Setzer. Matt recently did a spot on the Paramount tv show “Joe Picket” where he has two original compositions being featured. With the singles "Black Widow" and "Dive Bar Debutante" have been released over the 2022 year, 2023 is starting of with the release of the full 6 song ep "The deEP End". Featuring the two singles plus "Missunderstood", "Punch It", "Back Where I Started (At the Bottom)" and "Guiding Light". Look for it available for download or buy purchase direct from the band and or the website! Working as a duo DoubleSuede is a perfect fit for any demographic, genre or size of stage. They have played in country music saloons, punk clubs and Folk/Roots festivals. Equally gaining new fans from teenagers, whom this is all new fresh music, to seniors who find it all familiar and exciting. But equally exciting is the group adding some drums into the mix for a real driving party! Follow the band at www.doublesuede.com, FB, Twitter and Instagram to keep up all the latest. Contact DoubleSuede today to book your next wedding, corporate party or cross country tour.

SILLY WRABBIT