Ash & Bloom Concert

On Tuesday, November 4th Calvin hosted a cozy concert with a duo group known as 

Ash and Bloom;

both graduates from Redeemer College/University.

One, James (Left) from a CRC Background, 

the other Matt (Right) not : ) 

This duo arrived at 4 pm for a sound check. 

You won't believe it, but all this gear (save the centre monitor and mics) came from a 4 door Honda civic.  

I was impressed.  

Now I'm not one to host concerts because of the uncertainty of who will come, and the pressure to make $$ for the band, but Ash and Bloom were quite flexible and even wanted us to partner with a local ministry to help support it as well, so I took them up on their offer to come through Ottawa.  

We opened with our Youth Praise team doing some songs of praise. Here's Jonathan.  

Chris took the pictures tonight. 

A nice one of the guitar frets and Jonathan's hand.    

Sarah (Left) and Janika, our singers.  

Miranda (Left) and Carraugh on flute(s).

Alexa on keyboard. 

Simon was on Piano, but no picture of you this time, sorry Simon.  

After the praise team opened, Ash and Bloom took over. 

They did about a 45 minute first set. 

Here's Matt....

And here's James.  

I liked their sound. 

A bit like Simon and Garfunkel (for those of you who are old enough to remember them).  

Their harmonies were amazing to listen to. 

Their songs full of meaning.

Reminded me of the depth of song in Steve Bell's work.  

Some of our grade 7's getting into the rhythm of things.  

I loved the different musical instruments they used.  

Not just acoustic guitars.  

A great electric guitar

And they really got into their songs as well. 

At intermission time, Ken came and shared a bit about the Ottawa Innercity Student Art program.  The ministry we decided to promote and support this evening. 

Then it was back for more music.  

James and Matt have a great sense of humour as well.  

Many great one liners told.  

This song was done without mics and off the stage. 

A tribute to their wives, I think, but I could be wrong. 

Before we knew it, their time was finished. 

They did do an encore, which was appreciated. 

We helped them pack everything up, and watched in amazement as they packed everything into their small car. 

Thanks Harold and Bea for housing them overnight, and thanks to all who came out to support a great cause and be blessed by the great musical talent of 

Ash and Bloom.   

All in all it was a great time with a small but appreciative audience.  

I hope we can have them return next year, and that they continue to grow in their music repertoire and depth.  They have great promise.  

Below is a short musical excerpt from the concert so you get an idea their songs. 

You can also go to 

www.ashandbloom.com

 to get more information, hear more songs, and maybe even book them for an event.  No event is too small or too large.  : )