An Evening of Unplugged Magic
Dartmouth’s Sanctuary Arts Centre is set to host an unforgettable night of intimate, unplugged performances on February 1st, featuring the dynamic Jake Ballard Band and special guest Laura Merrimen. The doors open at 7 PM, with the show kicking off at 8 PM.
Tickets are available in advance at hrmevents.com or can be purchased at the venue for $10. Additionally, there’s a Pay-What-You-Can option for those looking to support the artists and experience an evening of soul-stirring music.
The Sanctuary Arts Centre, nestled in the heart of Dartmouth, offers not just a large main theatre but also a cozy downstairs venue. Having recently opened in November, the smaller space provides an intimate, candlelit ambiance akin to a speakeasy. Known for its stellar acoustics and friendly bar service, this new venue has already hosted a range of talented musicians, poets, and comedians. After a brief holiday break, the Sanctuary team is gearing up for a consistent schedule of Thursday night shows, promising patrons an enchanting experience.
Jake Ballard: A Maestro of Blues-Rock
Jake Ballard, celebrated for his electrifying live performances, is set to bring his unique blend of blues-rock to the Sanctuary stage. His soulful voice and virtuosic guitar playing create a mosaic of rock & roll sounds spanning from the 50s to the present. The blues-rock maestro released his latest album, “Songs From the Wishing Well,” on July 18, 2023. Recorded at Kill Dog Cove Studios, the album channels raw electric guitar tones, described as a blues-rock banger that showcases Ballard’s evolution from his laid-back debut, “Madness.”
Production credits for “Songs From the Wishing Well” include engineering by Adam Fancy and Jake Ballard, mixed by Thomas Stajcer and Jake Ballard at Fang, and mastered by Franc Lopes at Ocean Floor. All songs on the album are written and produced by Jake Ballard himself.
Laura Merrimen: A Soulful Storyteller
Opening the night is the captivating Laura Merrimen, an artist with an old soul and a knack for cutting straight to the heart. With a smoky voice and honest lyrics, Merrimen’s Americana-infused country music is a journey into vintage arrangements with undertones of folky roots-rock. Her debut album, “Love Letters for Lonely Hunters,” showcases her ability to craft engaging songs focused on genuine storytelling.
Merrimen’s influences, ranging from Townes Van Zandt to Lucinda Williams, are evident in her soulful performances. Whether performing solo or with her Lonesome Travellers, she continues to spread her brand of soulful country throughout Eastern Canada. In addition to her musical talents, Merrimen is a talented artist, with her artwork offering a live and entrancing depth that complements her lyrical storytelling.
