Make Sure You Check Out These Fremantle Folk Festival Acts

Fremantle Folk Festival is set to consume the historic Princess May Park, Clancy’s Fish Pub Fremantle and surroundings for a massive inaugural run on Oct 15.

The celebration of local music, arts, and culture features an eclectic line-up that WA singer-songwriter and Freo Folk Festival artist Carus Thompson has narrowed down to three must-see acts leading up to the main event.

Donna Simpson

Donna and her Waifs have been kind enough to let me open for them many, many times – from Broome, to Margaret River, to London and Edinburgh. First support I did for them was probably back in ’99 or 2000 at Fly By Night Club (they’d sell that out ten times over now).

Donna’s success has come through her talent but also her hard work – The Waifs have done it as hard and rock’n’roll as anyone. They’ve driven the miles, slept on the couches, and played the small hard shows. As well as these opportunities they gave me with supports they always let me scam a lift to the gig or sleep on their hotel room floor – they know what it’s like to be a struggling band starting out.

The Waifs are without a doubt one of this countries best live bands, I’ve seen so many of their shows where they do that elusive, amazing thing – they make a gig “a happening”, interacting with the crowd and making the whole thing about connection. It’s a special thing and lots of bands (even big ones) can’t do it.

With all of this stuff  - the whole “Waifs package”, sometimes you can forget the individual elements that make the sum of the whole. About six months ago I heard Donna singing solo for the first time in a while. I just stopped and was captivated and absolutely blown away by how truly beautiful her voice is. Donna Simpson is one of the best singers you’ll ever hear. She really is an amazing talent, so special and an incredible songwriter to boot. She’s my number one act to check out. Do not miss this amazing artist!

Sensitive New Age Cowpersons

With the wonderful Waifs, John Butler and Eskimo Joe, Freo has hit the world stage. Many people would be forgiven for thinking these are the only bands to come out of this town. But as a musician who learnt my trade on South Terrace and the West End (back when it had five pubs all doing live music) I’ve always seen myself as part of a generation that has come after and been directly influenced by acts like The Zydecats, The Sensitive New Age Cowpersons, Nansing and The Jams Tarts.

Whilst these bands never had massive international success they consistently packed out venues like The Seaview (where I saw my first live gig as a ten year old), Fly By Night Club and wowed festivals all over. True Freo Legend Jim Fisher leads The Sensitive New Age Cowpersons and their musicianship and ability to be able to play anything (Jim plays everything) has been what’s inspired me as a player. The Cowpersons have reformed especially for this event and they’re gonna tear it pieces. If you want to see some of best bluegrass players in this country you want to catch these guys. They’re incredible!

Ensemble Formidable

Whilst these guys don’t have the profile of the other two acts I’ve mentioned they are great. Lead by an enigmatic, charismatic and energetic vocalist, these guys’ll get you dancing big time! They play a rootsy mix of gypsy, funk, and groove, bringing the vibe. Their songs are also really good and have an infectious energy. I’ve only seen them in small venues and I’ve very excited to see them do their thing in front of a bit crowd as I’ve always thought they could really energise a big bunch of punters. Bring your dancing shoes and your smiles!

You can find out more about the Fremantle Folk Festival via their website.