Vancouver-based folk artist Colin Rink has been taking his music to places it has never been before. Rink has been touring across the country, from Vancouver to the Maritimes and back again.
On October 8, he will be making his first Yorkton stop.
Rink says that his music has been compared to folk artists from the '50s and '60s, garnering comparisons to some major names in music, including Woodie Guthrie, Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan.
"When you get compared to somebody like that it is a great honor and a pleasure," Rink reflects.
Folk music in general is getting a steady revival throughout the world, and Rink believes that it is the honesty of the music, both his own and the music of other artists, that is driving it. He says that he sees people becoming disillusioned with the glossy production most common on Top 40 radio.
"With folk music, it's not about glamour, it's about honesty. I think if somebody has something to say, not just in folk music but in any music, people can sense that, and people can relate to it, versus some band or artist that has been created and doesn't write their own songs," Rink says.
This is the largest tour Rink has undertaken, and he says the experience has been an unforgettable one. He says that it is rewarding to meet people across the country, from fans old and new to other musicians, some of whom he is fortunate enough to play shows with.
"It's a really awesome way to see the country. You get to see these these small places in the prairies, and there's awesome music all around Canada. The people who have opened their doors have been incredible," Rink says.
One of the dates that Rink is anticipating most is the Yorkton show, he says. While this is the first time he has performed in the city, other musicians have reported that it is a great place to play.
"I've heard so many good things about the venue, and the people of Yorkton, and how it's an awesome place to play and an awesome place to be... When I tell people I'm coming to Saskatchewan, they say 'oh, you're going to Yorkton.' it's the first thing they say, over any other place," Rink says.
Rink will be at the 5th Ave. Cup and Saucer on October 8. To keep up to date on Rink and what he's doing next, and to check out some of his music, visit www.colinrinkmusic.com.
