Here is a blog I wrote for Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s blog, covering the musical performance of Stephen Fearing and Viper Central at their event Barnacle Blues.

Barnacle Blues with Stephen Fearing

The audience was captivated as Stephen Fearing performed at Barnacle Blues, an annual fundraiser event hosted by Black Rock Oceanfront Resort for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.  All eyes were locked on  Fearing; and all ears eagerly anticipating the next lyric and bit of melody.  From folk, roots, blues to country western Stephen Fearing puts stories to song in a way that truly captures the essence of Canadian music and songwriting.

His 18 year long career with Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, along with a seven year solo career has enabled Fearing with clear musical talent and the ability to work the crowd.  Between every song he shared a story or humourous antidote, receiving chuckles and applause from an obviously entertained crowd.

“Has anyone seen how amazing the bathrooms are at Black Rock?”  He asked.  “You can park a car in there.  I am living the dream!”  The audience responded with laughter and applause.

Fearing won multiple Juno Awards in 2006 for his first solo album Yellowjacket.  He took a seven year break before releasing his latest album Between Hurricanes earlier this year.  Throughout his two sets at Barnacle Blues he played songs from his solo albums along with old time favourites from Blackie and the Rodeo Kings and his other project Fearing & White.  His lyrics are strung together like poetry, fastened by quick acoustic picking that showcases his obvious musical talent.

Opening for Stephen Fearing was Viper Central, an original bluegrass/roots band from Vancouver.  Viper Central is easily loveable with creative bluegrass style melodies that are both traditionally classic and authentically adventurous.  Viper Central played at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in November and we were pleased to welcome them back again.

It was easy to tap your toes as they played their original songs ranging from lively gospel to soulful (and sometimes sorrowful) folk/blues and barn-dancing bluegrass.  Stand up bass, acoustic guitar, fiddle, steel guitar and the occasional banjo combine to create a sound these local crowds keep coming back for.

Barnacle Blues is a fundraiser for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, an annual spring festival in Ucluelet and Tofino that celebrates spring on the west coast of Vancouver Island.  There was a silent auction as well.   Proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction go towards the festival every year.

For more photos visit Black Rock Oceanfront Resorts FACEBOOK page.