Creativity flows through Kamloops like the Thompson rivers. Talented artists and musicians are everywhere to create an unreal experience for travelers and locals alike. An underrated aspect of Kamloops is the town’s incredible local music scene. Focusing on alternative and punk rock music, this article will give any music lover an extensive guide to some of this city’s most popular and talented local bands.
To get a more reliable take on the Kamloops local music scene, I had the opportunity to interview Thomas Faraone of Barnacle Records. He is a very actively involved member of the music scene and an upcoming DJ in Kamloops. The interview was very interesting and enlightening. I have selected the most important information to share with you today. Answers have been edited for clarity and length.
The first question surrounded the importance of supporting local music in Kamloops. For Thomas, it is crucial. “Being able to participate in an activity that so many people are passionate about not only brings people together but for the artists can be a great outlet and an optimal medium to express themselves. Having the ability to get that emotional release surrounded by like-minded people is important to encourage. Without that, we’re all just screaming at a wall in our basements.” In addition to going to shows, Thomas expresses the uniqueness of record label Slow Death records, a Kamloops-based record company. They focus solely on, and dedicate their practice to British Columbia bands, giving them a well know and well-respected platform to share their art. To sum it up, this community is supportive and welcoming.
My next question was “What makes music in Kamloops unique? Does Kamloops have its own unique sound?”
His answer was that Kamloops has its own sound to a degree. Lots of artists originating in Kamloops migrate to Vancouver blending the sounds of the two places. Saying BC has its own unique sound is more representative of the situation. Although, in Kamloops, the indie scene has the most specialized sound. “The indie bands like Mother Sun are really doing it right. It will be interesting to see their effect on the community long term.” Faraone expressed the importance of seeing bands that push the limits of the genre and really do well.
“Are there any upcoming shows to look out for? How can people find out about local shows?”
“Yes! I am doing a set at the Kamloops Inn on December 16th! Plug my show in your article. But in all seriousness, in my experience, the way I got into the music scene and attending shows, besides social media and the internet was to just go into the record store. They always have posters, ads, and all the information about stuff like that. There are also flyers all around town for every little thing. Look at any crosswalk and you’re sure to find somewhere with good music that weekend. Good key bands to watch out for are Mother Sun, the Stonefruits, and Headcheese. They have a great sound and they do shows often enough around town”
At shows with performers Mother Sun, the Stonefruits, and Headcheese, there’s more to love than just the musicians. The atmosphere that these talented artists create at their shows is electric and inviting. Getting involved in the scene, and seeing these bands release new music and grow can create this unique, and mutually supportive audience/artist bond building community, meaning, and reason for being within Kamloops.
At the end of the day, we travel to gain new experiences, we travel to learn, and we travel to escape. Becoming immersed in Kamloops’ local music scene and consuming the art of the town is bound to leave travelers and locals alike with a sense of growth, fulfillment, and togetherness. The way live music can help someone to escape provides the concertgoer with a cathartic experience that will bring light to any bad week and enhance a great one.
Just a Taste of Local Music in Kamloops. https://youtu.be/hZDhA1Dri4o
