There is something awesome brewing again up in the hills above the Comox Valley and it's all about massive sounds, wicked visuals, huge dancing and big time fun!
It's The Big Time Out and it comes to life in Cumberland this Aug. 18 and 19.
The 2012 performer roster is chock full with fresh talent from near and far and a final few artists have been added to the roster over the past two weeks, including a huge talent who is coming home to the Island after a phenomenal touring year in some of Canada’s top venues including a stint at the Calgary Stampede — Wil.
His Stampede performance included the song Ride, which he composed for the 100th anniversary of the Calgary Stampede as their theme song.
Wil has a gift and he loves to share it. In his musicianship, lyrics and live performance, he exudes an equal measure of ferocious intent and heart wrenching beauty: as one fan eloquently stated, “He’s a saw blade cutting though fine silk.”
Whether performing live, recording an album or writing for film, Wil is a dedicated and consummate professional. Wil uses his legendary live show performances to develop his expansive roots-rock sound to create a style that is honest, edgy, raw and delicate yet achingly beautiful all at once.
One such performance was written as “as having so much power and soul it could stop your heart.”
Another recent add to the 2012 program is Rocky Mountain Rebel Music (RMRM). RMRM combine forces to create broadly influenced and super high-energy music that drives the crowds into a dancing frenzy.
Recently voted Victoria's Favorite Band by Monday Magazine, RMRM is charged by reggae, rock, funk, dub, dancehall, punk and world rhythms, delivering an original sound that defies comparison.
Shredding guitars, bubblin' keys, smooth horns, hand percussion, drums, and heavy bass form the rough and rugged foundation upon which vocals rise and fall like the tide on Vancouver Island's rocky coast.
A quick glimpse at the BTO website illuminates the breadth and scope of the 2012 line up. Performers include Vancouver based alt rockers Black Mountain, death country trio Elliott Brood, Australia's Aurora Jane, Luciterra, Humans, Longwalkshortdock, Morlove, Flying Fox and the Hunter Gatherers, Kemal Evans and many more including an awesome roster of local talent.
In addition to Village Park, BTO 2012 is offering venues throughout the village including an all-ages Pyramid Lounge at the Cumberland Recreation Institute, art shows and street projects and live bands at three downtown pubs. With the mainstage lineup now announced, tickets are flying.
Advance weekend passes are available right now but they’re going fast and organizers are capping the total number of tickets sold to make sure there’s room for everyone on the dance floor! Kids under 12 are free and limited camping is available on site but these spots will be gone soon. You can buy tickets online or at community outlets and all the info is at www.thebigtimeout.com.
— The Big Time Out