The Coldstream Coffee House is starting the new year with a performance by Andrew and Zachari Smith as the feature artists at the upcoming coffee house Saturday, Jan 18.
The two Smiths are not your typical indie folk duo. Andrew (the father) is one of very few Canadians to have won the prestigious Kerrville NewFolk songwriting competition. He is also known as a world-class, tap-style guitarist. Zachari (the son) can play just about any instrument he tries and his songwriting, often filled with political subject matter, harkens back to the early days of Dylan.
Although father and son work on songs together and separately, the elder Smith admits that despite the familial bond, it’s much like any other partnership. And both feel fortunate to able to tour with each other.
“It’s great to hang out with my son, make music with him and just hear the songs he writes,” said Andrew. “He’s a talented multi-instrumentalist who brings new life to the tunes and to our concerts. It works on a lot of different levels.”
The blend of top-notch songwriting, mandolin, dobro, banjo, suitcase drum kit, guitar and family harmonies is said to be delightful and often surprising.
The pair started touring with the release of their first album, Travelling.
In February, Andrew and Zachari are releasing their second album, Stumbling Horse.
The album will prove that the pair have something to say. Their songs arise from what they have both lived through and learned over the past two years; songs of love and betrayal, emotive and passionate, and at times reflecting their ongoing concern for the environment.
The Coldstream Coffee House takes place at the Coldstream Women’s Institute Hall, 9909 Kalamalka Lake Rd. The open mic portion of the show will precede the feature performance. Admission is $5 with a concession by donation. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m.
