2026 KVMF lineup
HEADLINERS & FEATURED
antonio Larosa
Antonio Larosa is a country-rock and roots artist whose music blends the grit of blues, the soul of vintage rock, and the storytelling of classic country. With a voice that channels the spirit of Elvis Presley and the emotional weight of Chris Stapleton, Larosa creates songs that are heartfelt, lived-in, and unapologetically honest. Raised in Vancouver, BC, Larosa was drawn to the music of Johnny Cash, The Allman Brothers, BB King, and Roy Orbison from a young age. His music reflects those roots: raw, rhythmic, and filled with sincerity, but filtered through his own lens and life experiences.
Bad buddy
Tight-as-can-be three-part harmonic explosions wrapped in a gritty, primal, snarling exterior, Bad Buddy (Edmonton, Alberta) is what Clash Magazine (UK) describes as “… pack(ing) a colossal amount of information into concise, quicksilver pop songs. Merging the pathways between punk rama-lama and three-part doo-wop harmonies, they’re a quite outstanding bunch of musicians. But it’s more than mere technical chops – at their core, Bad Buddy are fascinated with the pop song as an artefact, resulting in the kind of dizzying fare The Lemon Twigs, say, would sell a kidney to master.” Picture The Shirelles meets The Ramones meets Queen.
Bu von blume
Bu Von Blume is funk. Bu Von Blume is disco. Bu Von Blume is cumbia, punk, ska, soul, balkan. Whatever it takes to get the people moving and grooving, really. Comox/Cowichan Valley multi-instrumentalist Lou Kinglish (normally an accordion player) teamed up with some of the heaviest hitting funk, brass, jazz and punk virtuosos around to create Bu Von Blume; a band that mixes hilarious theatre antics with downright dangerous bass and horn lines to cook up a real dance fiasco.
Dana sipos
Known for crafting music that is both intimate and otherworldly, acclaimed Canadian songwriter Dana Sipos’ talent for earthen imagery, rich spiralling vocals, and textured instrumentation sets the stage for a deeply moving performance. She has brought her cosmic folk to living rooms, concert halls and festival stages across North America, Europe, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Her previous release, The Astral Plane was lauded as a "mesmerizing jewel of an album" by No Depression and garnered Sipos a Solo Artist of the Year nomination at the 2022 Canadian Folk Music Awards.
david simard
David Simard is a seasoned folk-country crooner born in Prince Rupert and now based in the Southern Gulf Islands. He'll be back North this summer with a full band and a new record, "Parlez-vous Country." - a folk album taking a wild ride across wide open plains. With a vocal and storytelling range as dynamic as the mountains he grew up in, this is an artist you won't want to miss.
desirée dawson
Whether an intimate venue playing solo, in harmony with her band playing to thousands or anywhere in between, her versatility allows her to bring her gifts to stages of any size. She is a two-time SXSW music video winner and JUNO Award nominee for Best Adult Contemporary Album of the year. She has garnered millions of views and streams for her releases such as, ‘I Am Blessed’ and ‘Chop Some Wood’ Desirée released multiple singles and an EP throughout 2025 with a full length album coming out Summer 2026. Desirée is driven by a passion for collective liberation believing that finding ways to love, embrace and liberate ourselves goes hand-in-hand with learning how to love, care, and build with others. Dawson’s soulful folk sound builds compassion to lovingly stay with you and to be a gift to pass on.
Devours
Devours is the DIY synthpop project of Vancouver-based musician Jeff Cancade.
Across five acclaimed underground albums, including 2023's Polaris Prize-longlisted Homecoming Queen, Devours has written confessional and confrontational electronic music about masculinity, body image, gay politics, and inner-city queer existence. They have toured Canada and the US, received coverage from Vice, CBC, Exclaim, and the Globe and Mail, and have performed at festivals such as SXSW, Treefort Music Fest, Sled Island, JunoFest, Vancouver Jazz Fest, and more. Sports Car Era, their newest LP, was released in March of 2025.
Emmett Jerome
Emmett Jerome is happy to let the music do the talking; that’s why this singer-songwriter is unapologetic in his pursuit to bring authenticity and grit to his music. With a soulful, weathered voice and honky-tonk guitar chops, it’s clear Jerome has spent time ample at the crossroads of country and rock crafting his unique sound.
Starting his career as a busker on the street corners of Vancouver, Canada, he quickly found his into the roughand tumble life of a travelling band. His first record ‘Rocky Mountain Son’ (2024) is a continuation of the troubadour tradition, with acoustic ballads of heartache, life on the road, and anthems to a sense of place. His latest release ‘It Ain’t Me’ (2025) is far more expansive in its influences from heartland Americana. It draws deep from the well of classics, and emerges as a record reminiscent of a Springsteen B side or forgotten Bob Dylan outtake.
genevieve jaide
Genevieve Jaide is a northern blooded songstress inspired by the environment, nature, and the alluring people she has met throughout the years. She carefully releases heavy emotions through lyrics and melodies, and pairs these feelings with a groovy alternative vibe. Her folk alternative sound is accompanied by: Brock Patch, Connor Pritchard, and Melissa Walker. Genevieve currently resides in Northern BC on Lheidli T'enneh Territory with her partner, two orange cats, and dog. Genevieve is a member of the newly formed all-female group "Reckless Burning".
linda mcrae
Pure substance. Unbridled and fully realized talent, Nashville based multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter Linda McRae is an experienced recording artist and songwriting instructor. From her days with the iconic Platinum recording Canadian Celtic band, Spirit of the West, to everything she has done since, Linda remains an artist full of integrity. Playing banjo, guitar and accordion in an unflaggingly authentic, deeply satisfying, and refreshingly acoustic style with a big dose of soul and skilled musicality, McRae’s unforgettable melodies and thought-provoking lyrics make her a captivating artist.
LVL Collective
LVL (elle-vee-elle) is known for their dynamic sets featuring a range of high-energy sounds and catchy vocal stabs that electrify the crowd. Collectively, they have played some of Vancouver’s largest clubs such as Red Room, Celebrities, and Levels, and toured across BC playing clubs and festivals including Bass Coast, FVDED in the Park, Electric Love, Altitude Music Festival, and Deep Roots. Flexing an expansive collection from breaks & 140 to techno, jungle, and drum & bass, this high-octane trio is primed to bring their unique flavour of bass to a dancefloor near you.
orchid ensemble
Established in 1997, the JUNO nominated Orchid Ensemble is acclaimed as “one of the most adventurous groups uniting Eastern and Western musical traditions” (Georgia Straight). Made up of internationally renowned Lan Tung (Taiwan/Canada) on the erhu/Chinese violin & vocals, Dailin Hsieh (Taiwan/Canada) on the zheng/Chinese zither, and Jonathan Bernard (Canada) on percussion, the ensemble transforms its Taiwanese roots to create a unique repertoire that breaks down boundaries between musical genres. With influences from Chinese, Indian, Jewish, and Central Asian music, reconstructing within a contemporary framework, and adding spirited improvisation, the Orchid Ensemble takes its audience on unexpected journeys.
pants
Funk from the ground up, stops at the waist to be specific. Brash trombone, funky bass, rockin' drums, glamorous suspenders, jeans, slacks, corduroys. Soul, disco, punk, and jazz hits and originals done weird and wild. A comfortable fit on any dancefloor. Recognize that cover? Probably not...it got Pantsified.
red haven
Red Haven is a raucous blend of jazz, roots and soul from Vancouver, BC. Known for their infectious high energy performance that encourages the audience to let loose and dance. Featuring a trio of distinct voices that weave and harmonize to shape their live show. Red Haven has now been entertaining audiences for over 10 years, from folk festivals across Western Canada, to bar halls in the U.K, to mountain-top horse ranches in Colorado, and hope to play for you soon.
spank williams
Just a country boy from Merritt, BC
Spank Williams' music is a unique blend of traditional country mixed with indie and alternative elements, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The vibe is often gritty and raw, channeling the spirit of classic country with modern twists. There's a certain rough-around-the-edges charm that makes their music feel unpolished in the best possible way, like you're hearing something genuine and untamed.
trombonissimo
Trombonissimo is a brass and loop pedal extravaganza!
All trombone, all the time is the motto for trombonist Daniel Cryderman’s new solo project. After years of playing with large ensembles and touring groups, Trombonissimo emerges as the solo live-electronic project that carries forward Cryderman’s musical journey. In Trombonissimo, the trombone meets effect pedals, loop pedals, and sequenced beats on his drum machine. The eclectic shows offer a range of rock, cumbia, reggae, and funky jazz covers mixed with original songs and compositions.
LEGENDARY LOCALS & RADICAL REGIONALS
Benjamin hallman
Planted and grown in the fertile soils of the Bulkley Valley in British Columbia, eats bananas, does extreme sports with marginal success, and is your dead classic guy with long hair at an open mic night that plays mostly covers, some originals.
the blind spots
A musical and humorous homage to the swing vocal jazz of the 30s, 40s, and 50s. featuring the music of the Mills Brothers, Louis Armstrong,, Louis Prima, and a generous portion of original music based on the era.
chad-e-ose
Chad-E-Ose is a Terrace based DJ that had been getting people dancing for over 30 years. He has an eclectic love of music that is showcased in his shows. He is often sneaking onto the dance floor during his show for a sneaky little boogie!
devil’s club
Fast, sinister hick-type bluegrass /folk /country. Some have called us cowpunk.
earthxstar
EarthXStar is an upbeat dance fusion of hip hop and soul. Fresh productions handcrafted by two amazing producers. They carry the night through heavy bass and catchy melodies. Their passion and love will be sure to get you moving.
elijah quinn
Alt-folk artist Elijah Quinn has spent years carving out a distinct place in the musical landscape of Northern BC. Drawing from the quiet intensity of José González and the rhythmic soul of The Wood Brothers, his songs move between intimacy and momentum, balancing reflection with a restless pulse. He will be joined by the fantastic rhythm section stylings of Geoff McFarlane & Simon Stockner.
ezra beaton
Hailing from the Kitwanga Valley, Ezra Beaton is a versatile indigenous instrumentalist and vocalist with love for Blues, Folk, and Classic rock. A heartfelt and genuine writer and performer, He pairs his inventive lyrics with classic sounding musical elements inspired by the greats. Backed by Jason Taylor and Ronan Nisbet, Ezra and his band have quickly grown a loyal fanbase across the north with their electrifying performances.
geoff mcfarlane
Montreal bassist and composer Geoff McFarlane explores contemporary fusion and pays homage to jazz icons such as Chick Corea and Robert Glasper. His music bridges his background in modern jazz with his experience as a sideman in the pop and indie world. His instrumental quintet features six string electric bass and some of the areas finest musicians.
the hazeltones
Formed in September of 2025, The Hazeltones are a genre bending quirk rock band that blend multiple styles and influences, which makes for energetic, crowd pleasing performances. The band is fronted by veteran songwriters / bandleaders Bill Crosson (The Skibums) and Theresa Michelle (Treebomb/solo) and joined by Tyler Stevenson(I Now Walk Into the Wild) on drums and Jon Dowdall (Funnner) on bass. The Hazeltones play original songs with heartfelt lyrics about life in the valley, and the people and creatures who call it home. And zombies. And aliens.
highbush caribou
Fresh off the salty coast, Highbush Caribou is here to deliver to you, dynamic folky, spy-like, surf rock, for those that like a gritty western flavour.
hillbilly scrabble
Hillbilly Scrabble is a big, powerful ,New Orleans influenced, Western Swing Band. Original with some hard hitting dance music. A veteran band comprised of northern singers ,songwriters, recording artists and teachers having fun and making great music together.
illann
iLLann is a songstress who uses violin and loop pedal to weave hypnotic soundscapes full of cascading harmonies, organic beats, and haunting strings. Her music stems from the realms of alternative and trip hop, and reflects the vividness of lucid dreams, early memories, and deep truths.
the infirmary
The Infirmary are an Alternative Indie Hardcore band originating from Smithers B.C. The main mission statement is to bring the dancers and the moshers to the same dance floor. Equal amounts of groove and chaos.
interstellar jays
These Jays bring original arrangements of should-be-familiar and nearly-forgotten tunes. With an irresistible groove, this iridescent flock has the drive to make you move!
isaiah-john
Based in Burns Lake but originating from Toronto, Isaiah-John is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and traveller whose music and stories bleed of the passion he finds for the people, places, and adventures he encounters. His musical journey has seen him singing in choirs of all kinds from symphonic to gospel; leaving classical piano to learn jazz; from playing and singing in auditoriums and concert halls to busking on the streets and playing in living rooms and jams; and from writing songs about love and fantasies to singing true stories of hardship, healing, and gathering.
los gringos salvajes
Most of the Gringos' gritty, poetic and evocative compositions are sung in Spanish, sometimes reflective of life, love and lust in Argentina, sometimes just playful. Raucous, swingy, moody and passionate, the Gringos sound is always *hot.*
lunaflora
LunaFlora is an emerging folk electronica project birthed by producer Freya Giles (Elyszium) and Violinist Cheryl Gatzke. Hailing from northwest British Columbia on Wet'suwet'en terittory the duo made their debut at CICK radio station in Smithers the summer of 2024. Lunaflora combines world beats, temple atmospheres and mesmerizing violin soundscapes to round out their original folk electronica sound. Freya produces the original electronic music using Ableton and Cheryl writes all her original violin compositions. Honouring their experimental roots, Lunaflora allows organic improv segments into their live performances and guides their audience through a world inspired array of sounds and tonal landscapes.
margot kimmel
Margot discovered hoop dance eight years ago, and the hoop has been a close companion ever since. With a background in ballet and contemporary dance, she is drawn to authentic, embodied movement. She has performed at festivals near and far, collaborating with dancers and musicians across many musical styles. Guided by a love of raw expression and continued exploration, Margot’s work carries a distinctive style and an infectious energy.
the moss possums
The Moss Possums are a band of young musicians from Smithers, BC who are passionate about their music. They love unique time signatures and a broad range of music genres with fiddle, piano, drums, guitar and sometimes horns, bass, and clarinet. The band has played together for three years and will have several graduates in 2026, making this potentially one of the very last performances of this accomplished quintet.
north of nowhere
North of Nowhere plays an eclectic mix of original music with encouraging lyrics, supple harmonies, compelling melodies and rhythmic grooves. There is an energy of love that stitches together the wide range of styles and genres. We engage our audiences with intentionality and joyful energy. James and Michelle are often joined by veteran Northwest musicians such as Daniel Talstra on Fiddle and Mark Fleming on mandolin and slide. Their solos and accompaniment resonate with the songs and make the experience even more creative and unforgettable.
orca silent
Orca Silent channels the sonic weight of the Pacific Northwest into spectral drones and immersive live performance soundscapes - drawing listeners into a hypnotic continuum of ambient, techno, and left-field textures. After a decade on Vancouver Island this sonic operator returns to the Bulkley Valley to continue a role in farming, harm-reduction and outreach. From Future Forest to Wonderment, Cascadia NW and beyond, witness the cold, rolling energy resonating at festivals coast to coast.
peace in paradise
Peace in Paradise is a trio of women connected by a love of music and the sheltering presence of mountains and rivers. With an eclectic blend of folk, traditional, and original ballads, their vocal harmonies weave through human stories of struggle and triumph.
puddy waters
Canadian/Indigenous indie artist Puddy Waters, from the Kitselas community and based in Terrace, BC, is a contemporary songwriter whose work lives in the spaces between reflection and release. Blending imagery with emotionally raw lyricism, Puddy’s songs explore love, loss, contradiction, and personal growth often moving fluidly between vulnerability and quiet resilience. Their writing is instinctive and unfiltered, shaped by moments of introspection and a deep connection to land, memory, and lived experience. Each song feels less like a performance and more like a conversation unfinished, honest, and human.
scotty dunbar & layla Marlaine
Local legend Scott Dunbar and his jazz singer partner Layla Marlaine have started playing some shows. Lively accoustic roots music. Should be good.
simba
Simbyez Wilson is a rock-and-roll firestorm - pure light, pure power. Through raw, magnetic storytelling, she shines on stage with a presence that hits straight to the soul. Her gritty vocals, electric energy, and fearless spirit ignite every room she enters. When Simbyez steps up to the mic, expect to feel it in your bones… and don’t be surprised when you start wiggling.
the swells
Hailing from Prince Rupert, The Swells consist of four longtime friends who love to blend folk harmonies as they deliver creative covers and unique original tunes inspired by life in Northern BC. Featuring Sarah Burgess on percussion, vocals, and mandolin, Lani Foster on bass, Frances Riley on vocals and guitar, and Chris Vick on violin, mandolin, and viola. Perfect Saturday afternoon in the hall vibes!
slyfire
SlyFire has evolved from their roots as Moss Mamas and the Fungi. With Julia Hill Sorochan laying down some funky basslines, Chris Barton wailing on lead guitar, Warren Gavronsky slaying on drums and rap vocals, Carla Lennert keeping it groovy with her sweet keys and trumpet licks, and Nicki Nattress' sassy vocals and rhythm guitar, SlyFire brings a unique new sound to Northwest BC. Playing an eclectic range of alternative rock, funk, and hip-hop originals and a few fun cover tunes, this crew really rocks out and brings people to their feet!
zanna unplugged
Popular dance cover band from Smithers has gone unplugged - but no less fun and rockin!!
the grid pickers
The Grid Pickers are (Haybale) Mike and Rachel McKerracher, a husband and wife band that has been playing music together for almost 20 years. Recently joined by their oldest child Audrey on Bass, they have been a hit at every show with their authentic, grass roots musical style. Known for their down to earth stage presence and thoughtful songwriting, they have bee a staple in the underground folk and punk community for a long time drawing long time fans to their performances.
the last waltz of the dead
“The Last Waltz of the Dead” is an homage production honouring two of the most influential bands of the sixties and seventies. History and creativity come together reflecting the profound infuences of The Band and the Grateful Dead.
workshops, activities & KIDS STUFF!
It’s ALl fun & paints
Get some custom art on your face! Shannon from “It’s All Fun & Paints” will ensure you look colourful & outstanding.
Story seeds
(Tracey Murphy)
Join community arts facilitator, educator, and spoken word artist Tracey Murphy for an inspiring exploration of spoken word, storytelling, and poetry. Participants of all ages are invited to experiment with writing prompts, develop original pieces, and connect through the power of words.
Living on W̱SÁNEĆ territory on Vancouver Island, Tracey brings more than 20 years of experience working with youth and adults. A former member of the Victoria-based performance collective Visible Bodies, she is an emerging spoken word artist who has performed in Canada, Colombia, and Spain. With more than 20 years of experience working with youth and adults, Tracey brings people together through story, creating spaces to connect, share, and imagine more just and sustainable futures
The workshop will culminate in a open mic spoken word gathering where participants can share their work or contribute it to a collaborative public art installation, creating a collective expression of the festival experience.
ERic the juggler
Eric The Juggler was originally trained by Buddhist monks in Tibet before touring throughout southeast Asia and Antarctica. Well…not exactly, but he has toured all over Canada, and Canada’s pretty big. A professional entertainer for over ten years, Eric The Juggler proudly makes a living by tossing dangerous objects in front of people’s faces: Fire, knives, double-bladed axes, and naturally, a chainsaw.
Shamelessly fun, his show mixes technical juggling skills with humour, improvisation and audience volunteers who are fearless in front of sharp objects. A man of many talents, Eric The Juggler will also show off his prowess with the diabolo, devilsticks and other items you’ve never heard of before.
One thing’s certain, many an innocent bystander will learn to juggle.
Luke the kangaroo
A hopping, playful good time, Luke the Kangaroo has goofed around on huge stages and tiny shows, improvising and laughing with the young and old alike.a hopping, playful good time, Luke the Kangaroo has goofed around on huge stages and tiny shows, improvising and laughing with the young and old alike.
Jelly tribe
Join Shola, Simon, and the Jelly Tribe for one of KVMF's most whimsical traditions. Participants will transform umbrellas into illuminated jellyfish sculptures using lights, ribbons, and flowing decorative materials before taking part in a magical roaming display around the festival grounds.
Materials will be provided for up to 50 participants, with priority given to younger children, while older participants are encouraged to bring their own umbrellas and join in the creative fun.
Come help create a sea of glowing jellyfish and add a little more magic to the festival weekend.
yo-yo with maryo
Mild-mannered high school teacher by day, yoyoist at all times… Maryo invites you to come learn how to throw, catch, and perform some classic tricks on a modern yoyo! Amaze yourself and your friends by learning a new and fun hands-on skill.
Recommended ages 10 and up, adults are welcome. Limited to 20 participants.
Yoyo’s will be provided to use in this workshop.