Multi-part harmonies, finger-plucked tunes and radio-ready hits are just part and parcel of the ongoing evolution of the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Award’s best folk/acoustic CD category. There’s innovation and charm to spare, as evidenced by the videos below. Preview the nominees before the APCMAs are handed out Nov. 1 and 2 in Winnipeg.
Dark Water Rising: Dark Water Rising
This sprawling six-piece from Robeson County has rich harmonies, shimmering hooks and the confidence to deviate between soul, folk, indie pop and torch songs.
The stellar single “Hooked” is begging to be covered by Adele or Sharon Jones.
Dylan Rysstad: Ghost House
The artist formerly known as Dylan Thomas, Rysstad moved back to Prince Rupert, B.C., and one can only imagine his gentle but delightful folk has already made it a better place to live.
This is Rysstad's “The Great Wall.”
Ghostkeeper: Ghostkeeper
This Calgary quartet is alt-folk bordering on blues-pop, but the twists and tweaks to their sound make for a unique listening experience and a fantastic live show.
Ghostkeeper's “Haunted” is a perfect example of the group's unique sound.
Janet Panic: Samples
This folk-pop singer-songwriter has a delicate voice, but big ideas and catchy hooks that make her seem a natural fit for mainstream radio — or a sure bet for Lilith Fair, round three.
Watch for Stevie Salas, who plays guitar on “Out on a Limb.”
Phyllis Sinclair: Dreams of the Washerwomen
A Canadian Aboriginal Music Award winner, Sinclair makes classic folk songs with narratives that capture pretty and poetic snapshots of life.
“Washerwoman’s Lament” is a beautiful and simple tune.
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