Three diverse acts — Ice Blue, the Two of Us and 4 out of 5Play — will perform their unique musical styles this Friday at Cumberland United Church.
• Erik Eriksson, the artist formerly known as the Big E, has been entertaining people in the Valley for many years. Mistakenly labelled as a politician, Erik believes we need more musicians and fewer politicians in government.
Erik is now known musically as Ice Blue – Ice because he's Icelandic and Blue because he plays the blues. (Ice Blue maintains Iceland is the Birthplace of the Blues, but this has not been independently verified.)
Erik (Ice Blue) Eriksson plays keyboards with the rock/rhythm and blues band the New Mother Earth.
• The Two of Us are two-thirds of the Many Waters Band. Eric MacDonald is a guitarist, singer and songwriter whose gentle delivery and heartfelt lyrics have been known to bring a tear to the eye. Tracy Canil is an accomplished flutist and singer. Her instrumentals and lovely vocals are the perfect complement to Eric's music.
• Heading into their fifth year, 5Play is a fun-loving band with an eclectic repertoire. They deliver a mix of old jazz standards, blues, swing, rockabilly, contemporary folk, driving rock and roll and original tunes. With keyboards, guitar, mandolin, electric and standup bass and percussion, they share lead vocals and harmonies throughout their performances.
5Play delivers rhythm, drive and emotion: music to move you. This concert will feature four-fifths of 5Play, as Granville is away for September, fortunately for him but unfortunately for them.
The concert is a benefit for Cumberland United Church and Centre for the Arts.
The acoustics in the sanctuary have been dubbed the best in the Valley by the many performers who have had the opportunity to play there. The church is 125 years old, and the roof is in need of some loving attention.
Admission is by donation; $10 suggested but larger contributions will be gratefully welcomed. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the music begins at 7:30. The church is at the corner of First and Penrith.
For more, contact 250-336-8429.
— Cumberland United Church