Compassion Gorilla performs at the Vault Café Friday (June 9) at 9 p.m. Frank Kyjonka Photo

Compassion Gorilla performs at the Vault Café Friday (June 9) at 9 p.m. Frank Kyjonka Photo

Compassion Gorilla combines earthy folk sounds with modern dance music

Victoria band performs at Nanaimo's Vault Café Friday (June 9)

Compassion Gorilla performs an eclectic blend of music.

“It’s an amalgamation of a lot of different inspiration. It’s always been about bridging the different folk lore styles with more dance music energy,” said Chris Fretwell, a member of Compassion Gorilla.

Compassion Gorilla, which hails from Victoria, performs at the Vault Café Friday (June 9) at 9 p.m.

“It’s a pretty fast-paced energy show to get people up and dancing,” said Fretwell.

He said he became interested in music because it allows him to connect with others. He found it especially powerful during his travels.

“I’ve always found music to be a very powerful way to connect with people,” said Fretwell.

The band has performed on numerous festival stages across Western Canada including at the Victoria International Jazz Festival, Robson Valley Music Festival and Campbell Bay Music Festival. Compassion Gorilla also toured Mexico in 2013 and played more than 50 venues.

The band has released two albums: Volta! Volta! in 2012 and Colibries en Vuelo in 2013 and is currently working on a third album.

Admission for the Compassion Gorilla concert is $10 at the door.

For more information about the group, please visit www.compassiongorilla.com.

arts@nanaimobulletin.com

Compassion Gorilla video

Nanaimo News Bulletin