MASTERS- One of Canada’s Bluegrass band sensations The Spinney Brothers performs at the Elks Lodge on Oct. 23.

MASTERS- One of Canada’s Bluegrass band sensations The Spinney Brothers performs at the Elks Lodge on Oct. 23.

Bluegrass Society launches season with The Spinney Brothers

The Waskasoo Bluegrass Music Society is gearing up for their first show of the season featuring Nova Scotia’s The Spinney Brothers Oct. 23.

Showtime is 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Well-known for their impressive live shows and outstanding instrumental chops, The Spinney Brothers are certain to be enjoyed by all who appreciate bluegrass and roots music.

From the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia, the band includes Allan Spinney, Rick Spinney, Gary Dalrymple and Terry Mumford. Allan and Rick debuted their band in 1992, showcasing a tight brother duet vocal style that was recognized for its energetic and distinctive sound.

They’re always been influenced by first generation bluegrass legends but have aimed to inject their own creative sensibilities as well.

By incorporating original material which draws from various sources, The Spinney Brothers intertwine the past with the present.

Allan (guitars/vocals) at a young age was already showing his interest in being a performer. As a child, he also took a strong interest in the organ.

But it was in 1979, upon buying his first guitar, that he started down the road to performing.

He began studying the guitar works of Smiley Bates, as well as the sounds of Bill Monroe and Flatt & Scruggs.

In 1989, Allan co-founded his first bluegrass band with his brother Rick. The Bluegrass Student Union was comprised of Allan, Rick, and their friend Steve Jackson.

By 1991, Allan was ready to put together a full bluegrass Band and The Spinney Brothers Bluegrass Band was born.

Rounding out the band today are Dalrymple (mandolin/fiddle) and Mumford (acoustic bass).

Tickets for their Red Deer show are $25.

Children under 16 are admitted free when accompanied by an adult.

Tickets are available at the Parkland Mall service desk, 53rd Street Music and the Key Hole. They can also be purchased in Innisfail at Jackson’s Pharmasave and at Popow’s Auto Body in Lacombe.

-Weber