Lonesome Ace Stringband

This band has created its own special space in the debate over genres – bluegrass, old-time, folk and America – its all just Lonesome Ace Stringband music and we love it. Whether singing about climate change, modern love, BBQ techniques or life's inevitable crises, the band cuts to the core. They can also churn out a traditional fiddle tune with so much verve that it will make your heart spin and set the dance floor swirling.  

Anchored by the brilliant fiddle of John Showman and the extraordinary clawhammer banjo of Chris Coole, these two aces bring a certain reckless abandon to their sound that soars ever skyward and then lands without warning.  For RiverCity 2027, they will be joined by founding member Max Malone who threads a sweet bass line and sings some of the bands most classic songs. 

There’s a reason why they’re a smokin’ hot outfit - they’ve put in their time. In 2007, Lonesome Ace Stringband took up a seven-year residency in Toronto’s legendary Dakota Tavern, routinely playing 10 sets of music every weekend.  It’s the kind of gig that creates a tight professional sound.  In 2014 they went on the road touring the USA, UK, Germany and across Canada and soon became festival favourites at Rockygrass, Celtic Connections, Winnipeg Folk Festival and MerleFest.  While touring they’ve also released seven albums including their latest “Big Wing” – a feisty collection of material which is at once fresh and timeless. 

Outside of their trio work, each musician is a veteran of the Canadian music scene, sought after for teaching camps, recording sessions and touring with some of the best artists in North America.   As a special treat for RiverCity jammers, they will also be teaching Saturday instrument workshops in fiddle, clawhammer, and bass.