Named for a unique Newfoundland phrase that means ‘imminently’, now is indeed the time for The Once.
Set to appear Wednesday, Feb. 26 (8 p.m.) at the Miners’ Union Hall, the trio has kept their music uncomplicated, dependent on the power of their voices and acoustic instruments.
Lead singer Geraldine Hollett has an instrument of rare power: She is a singer who can still a noisy room and so expressive she can tell a novel-length story with a few words.
Accompanied by Phil Churchill and Andrew Daleon guitar, mandolin, fiddle and bouzouki, they create a perfect blend of voice and melody. Sometimes melancholy, sometimes funny, always poignant, The Once sound like nothing else that has ever come from Newfoundland.
Their debut album has built a gradual following, and their live show is unique in its combination of intimacy and power. They have won several East Coast Music and Canadian Folk Music awards, and the country is slowly waking up to just what an amazing band they are.
Since they signed to Borealis Records in 2010, they have toured throughout the country and Europe, drawing crowds and glowing reviews wherever they go. With Row Upon Row of the People They Know, The Once will take their place amongst Canada’s finest performers.
The Rossland Council for Arts and Culture brings The Once to Rossland. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Available at Out of the Cellar in Rossland.
The Once get three of four stars in the Globe and Mail:
“Just as the sea refuses no river, the Once turns back no listeners.
These three Newfoundlanders gracefully and evocatively offer gem-like maritime music – foot-stomping shanties, heart-rendering ballads, salt-aired interpretations (of Tom Waits and Leonard Cohen tunes) and a cappella three-part harmonies thicker than Mama Cass’s midriff.
The drinkable Geraldine Hollett is the pure-voiced starlet, riveting on the soloed Marguerite. Something singular is happening here, you bet.”
Brad Wheeler, Globe and Mail