In the past two weeks we have excavated a goldmine of music. I’ve been too busy taking it all in to sit down and write about it. So today is the day.

I’ll review the musical events in reverse order, starting with last Wednesday’s house concert in the Landsdowne Concert Series.

PEI singer-songwriter, Meaghan Blanchard, was the guest artist. Not only did she delight the audience with her vocal and finger-picking guitar skills, but she also revealed herself to be a witty, nothing-held-back storyteller.

The background stories to her lyrics and intricate melodies had the audience laughing, occasionally wiping a tear, and frequently nodding
in assent. Her character-driven songs, sung in a pure, understated vocal style, reflected life experiences which rang true for many.

Meaghan’s musical style reflects the influence of the country music her grandmother sang. She expresses that influence with subtlety and sophistication. She shared the back story to a deeply personal and touching song she wrote in tribute to her first musical idol, Dolly Parton.

I often marvel at the choices singers make for an encore. Meaghan ended her concert with a flash of brilliance. Following a standing ovation, she launched into the Carole King classic, “You’re So Vain.” She had the whole audience belting out every line with her – especially the women who, like me, learned this song in their wild and rebellious youth.

Meaghan Blanchard is a name to remember and a talent to watch. Check out her videos and songs at:
www.meaghanblanchard.com

For information on their line-up, google Lansdowne Concert Series. There are more great shows coming up in the next few months.