The Seymour Art Gallery Music Series Reviews

• Angela Harris
• Jack Stafford Trio
• Mae Moore
• Joe Stanton Trio
• Randeesh & the Lions

Review of Randeesh and the Lions October 23rd, 2010 at the Deep Cove Yacht Club

The dance floor at the Deep Cove Yacht Club was hopping Saturday October 23rd, as Sunshine Coast reggae legends Randeesh and the Lions played to a full house for the final night of the Seymour Art Gallery's acclaimed 2010 Music Series.

Exuberant, joyful and celebratory, the band's one drop groove warmed the wet West Coast evening and had the crowd dancing from the first song to the last. The Lions, along with special guest Sam Hope, played an upbeat mix of classic Bob Marley and a selection of Randeesh's original compositions, standouts including "The World Needs Good Will, Love and Happiness" and "Get Away".

Highlights of the evening included some inspired backup vocals by audience members, the dance stylings of Randeesh and Sam Hope and guitarist Simon Paradis' francophone rendition of Happy Birthday followed by chocolate cake for all. One Love!

Review of Joe Stanton Trio September 28th, 2010 at the Seymour Art Gallery

How fortunate the Seymour Art Gallery was to present Joe Stanton to a overflowing house on Tuesday the 28th of September. Joe performed many original songs that highlight his life including the 30 years of being a singer/songwriter. Outstanding finger picking is only one of the ways Joe gets his audience deeply engaged in his musical offerings, if you were to close your eyes at times you would expect that more than one musician was playing the guitar.

Joe shared several stories about his life that had the audience listening intently, in particular when he sang "The Hard Way" the crowd laughed over and over at the lyrics which summed up the paradox of learning life lessons. AND man does this man have Train Songs, reflections of the legendary "Hudson Train" to the heart breaking "Cheatin' Train" and then he gives us a glimpse into how he's appreciated in "She only Loves me for my Train Songs."

The current exhibition of art was a collection of luminescent paintings by Lil Chrzan of West Vancouver which offered the perfect surroundings for a truly West Coast Musician.

Joe spent many years during his youth in Deep Cove and it appeared that he was made welcome by friends of the past who were more than delighted to have him entertain them for an evening in this most intimate of settings.

Review of Mae Moore July 13th, 2010 at the Seymour Art Gallery

On Tuesday July 13, 2010 the Deep Cove Shaw Theatre hosted a one night only concert featuring Mae Moore as part of the Seymour Art Gallery's ongoing Music Series. The Music Series, a fundraiser for the gallery, consists of various B.C. musical performers showcasing their talent, with proceeds supporting the gallery.

The Seymour Art Gallery was honored to have Mae Moore perform; her witty and charming sense of humor allowed for a relaxed and fun filled evening enjoyed by all. Mae Moore is a well-known and talented Canadian singer, songwriter and storyteller. During the performance she took quick breaks to interact and engage the audience. She recalled her times in Deep Cove and how pleased she was to return. The community welcomed her with open arms, exemplifying the warmth of Deep Cove. Moore incorporated new songs from her not yet released album as well as old favorites such as "Bohemia" and "The Red Clay Hill". Despite being an accomplished musician, Moore is also a talented artist which was obvious when looking at the art work that she brought and incorporated into her show; the mix of music and art created a dynamic and electrifying experience. Despite a few minor sound difficulties, which Moore handled with the upmost grace and patience, the evening was a huge success. The Seymour Art Gallery looks forward to more beautifully constructed Music Series concerts.

Review of the Jack Stafford Trio June 29th, 2010 at the Seymour Art Gallery

The Seymour Art Gallery was transformed into an intimate, artistic concert venue on Tuesday June 29. The lively, dynamic sounds of the Jack Stafford Trio filled the gallery and had listeners dancing in their seats. This was the second installment of the gallery's Music Series, intended as a fundraiser for the gallery. The Music Series runs until the end of the year with performances on July 13 (Mae Moore), September 28 (Joe Stanton Trio) and October 23 (Randeesh and the Lions).

Jack Stafford captured the audience with his witty comments and impeccable talent while Goby Catt and Alen Wold accompanied with their equally impressive skills. Jack Stafford on Saxophone, Goby Catt on Bass and Alen Wold on piano created a superb trio, captivating the audience from the start. There was never a dull moment and familiar songs such as "Summer Time" originally by Ella Fitzgerald, reminded the listeners of relaxation and care free living. The evening was inspiring and memorable.

Review of Angela Harris Concert on April 13, 2010 at the Seymour Art Gallery

The soothing sounds of Angela Harris filled the quaint, charming and comfortably intimate setting of the Seymour Art Gallery in Deep Cove on Tuesday night (April 13). This was the first concert in a series that is a fundraiser intended to promote the Seymour Art Gallery as well as showcase a group of talented and versatile British Columbian musicians.

Right from the beginning Angela Harris, with her trio of Eric Reed and Craig McIlveen, enchanted the audience with their pure talent that included an amazingly versatile voice and guitar playing. Angela also provided wonderful anecdotes from the colorful fabric of her life that stemmed from being the daughter of a trapper in Northern B.C. The rural isolation which would seem lonely to most, provided to be a fertile playground that allowed her to incorporate her experiences in life into songs with depth and intrigue.

If you ever have the chance to check out Angela Harris performing, you can be assured you are in for a few hours of the sweet, soft sounds of Bluegrass Country mixed in with a whole lot of fun.

We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver through The Arts Office: