Looking for something to do this weekend to get into the spirit of the season? The Yorkton Curling Club has you covered with its seventh annual Swing into Spring event at Gallagher Centre.
This year’s entertainment will be provided by the Back 40 Drifters.
The name is a double entendre. It fits the country theme of the band’s raison d’etre, but is also a nod at the musicians’ experience level.
“It’s been a long time since any of us have been 17 years old,” explained John Van Eaton, the band’s lead vocalist.
That does not mean they cannot rock it, though. Their motto “Rock Solid Country” hints at a repertoire that goes well beyond Waylon and Willie to contemporary pop-country hits and some good ol’ rock and roll.
If you’re looking for Lady GaGa or the Beibs, though, this probably is not going to be your ensemble.
Their catalogue does include a broad variety of music, however, which they come by honestly. Back 40 Drifters are five seasoned players with divergent backgrounds, who came together in 2015. In addition to Van Eaton, the group features Anthony Leeds on lead guitar and vocals, Darren Fisk on guitar and vocals, Lorne Frape on drums and Christopher Istace on bass guitar and harmony vocals.
Since forming, they have been keeping toes tapping across southeastern Saskatchewan.
“We’re having a lot of fun,” Van Eaton said. “That’s the biggest focus, to make sure the audience is having a good time.”
Essentially a cover band, Back 40 does sprinkle in a few originals written by Van Eaton and are looking at incorporating some of Istace’s compositions.
They’re not in it for fame and fortune, though.
“That’s not the goal,” Van Eaton said. “We’re having fun and keeping busy.”
Tickets for Swing into Spring are $15 in advance at Gallagher Centre Kiosk, Loucks’ Pharmacy, KW Men’s Wear, and Epic Audio. They can also be had at the door on the night of the event for $20. Doors open at 8:30. It is an adult only event (ID required).
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