2012 Mariposa Folk Festival Line-Up Gets a Boost of Youthful Energy

   Mariposa Folk Festival announced six artists today that will be performing at the storied summer festival. This was the second in a string of artistic announcements anticipated over the coming months as the full roster comes together. The artists announced today are some of the most exciting young acts on the buzzing folk-roots scene.


“These performers are emblematic of the vibrant folk-roots music today, and they are a good indication of the kind of energy people can expect at Mariposa this year”, said Mike Hill, Artistic Director.
 

Mariposa Folk Festival takes place in Orillia, Ontario, Canada, July 6-8, 2012. Tickets are on sale at www.mariposafolk.com.

Oh Susanna

In a career spanning just over a decade, Oh Susanna has released six critically acclaimed records noted for their contemplative, thoughtful, folk-inspired songs. Whether applauding a young woman’s need to stand tall in the face of dire circumstances, expressing love and tenderness to a dying loved one or embodying the anger of a soldier’s widow, Oh Susanna’s songs aim straight for the gut. On her most recent record, Soon The Birds, Oh Susanna brings her breathtakingly effortless countrified alto into the foreground with a collection of haunting songs that shine light into the darker areas of the human experience.


Hey Ocean
A young band with an extraordinary talent for blending various musical styles into their own unique brand of pop, together the three mischievous personalities of Hey Ocean form a dynamic live presence. In 2008, they unveiled their first album, It’s Easier To Be Somebody Else. A fusion of funky party-pop and lyric-driven ballads, the album garnered significant acclaim and attention. As leaders in the D.I.Y. generation, the band released its sophomore album on its very own label called Pop Machine. Hey Ocean is building on its early success with more music, more tours and as many festivals and outdoor events as possible.


Good Old War

Over the past three years, the indie-folk trio Good Old War – whose name is an amalgam of the band members’ names - has captivated audiences with their acoustic-driven, sing-along-inspiring live performances. With the release of their third full-length record, Come Back as Rain (2012), this Philadelphia-based band harnesses a high-spirited simplicity that makes their shows so unforgettable. Like Only Way To Be Alone (2008) and Good Old War (self titled - 2010), the new album showcases the delicately textured melodies and multipart harmonies that have become the band’s signature. With a penchant for infectious folk-pop, the group infuses their sound with joyful passion that makes their live performances delightful and inspiring.


Treasa Lavasseur

Funny and ballsy, Treasa Lavasseur is an old-school young dame with a big voice, big sound, and a big brand-new record bearing the deliciously provocative title of Broad. About herself and the album name, she says, “If I were a Hepburn, I’d be Katherine, not Audrey”. When Lavasseur burst on to the scene in 2006, she immediately established herself as a versatile artist with an unmistakable voice, a sassy attitude, and smarts to spare. No shrinking violet, she’s a garden in full bloom – colourful, varied, beautiful, full of life, and above all, one of a kind. She’s a terrific broad, and we think you’ll love her.


Meaghan Blanchard

East Coast Music Award winner (Country Album of the Year, 2011), Meaghan Blanchard is making big waves. Starting with performances at school, church and community benefits, she moved on to all ages shows and coffee houses, then to concert venues and bars, fine tuning her impressive song writing and playing at every stop along the way. Recently, Meaghan has spent time in Nashville showcasing, co-writing and making friends. With a powerful but controlled voice, she sings her material with total commitment and a maturity beyond her years, giving her songs the power to connect with listeners of all ages.


Aaron Mangoff

Appearing for the first time at the Festival, as a participant in the Mariposa-sponsored songwriters club, this performer is no stranger to Mariposa Folk Foundation. Aaron’s songs and performances are both passionate and haunting, with acoustic guitar that complements impressive vocals. The result is a truly authentic musical experience. His voice ranges from subtle and wispy to rich and booming, and his intimate songs resonate strongly with audiences. Aaron’s music ranges from metal to rock to acoustic folk, an apropos mix considering his young age and wide view of the world. We think you will be drawn-in and intrigued when Aaron hits the stage.