The second wave of artists has been announced for the second edition of 'Heart of Gold Fest', Northern Ontario's burgeoning club style music festival which focuses on punk rock and alternative rock acts.
After last week's initial announcement of the first wave of acts, including Bat Sabbath, The Creepshow, The Penske File, We Were Sharks, and more, festival officials released the second wave on Friday, including:
The Fullblast is a progressive melodic punk rock band based out of Oakville. They released their last album 'Short Controlled Bursts' in 2006, and have recently reunited after nearly a decade apart.
Also added on Friday were two bands from the Ottawa area, Rydell and The Valveenus, along with two more Timmins area acts in The Payoff and Punktual Alcoholics, as well as Awesome! from North Bay.
More bands will be added leading up to the festival.
"We're seeing some diversity in this years line up, which we are excited about. Some new bands, along with bands who have recently gotten back together. We've got something going here, take note," said festival organizer John Cayen, co-owner and proprietor of The Working Class on Second Avenue.
The festival's first year was a solid success with strong crowds for all shows, but especially co-headliners Silverstein and Bigwig.
Cayen is excited for the second edition.
"Our line up this year is a continuation of what we built with our first Heart of Gold Fest. We're building a brand that speaks to the counter culture," he said.
Festival organizers are well aware that the lineup is not necessarily for everyone, but encourage locals to broaden their horizons and look beyond the 'Top 40'.
"Just because you may not be familiar with some bands on the line up, it doesn't mean they aren't relevant. Take the opportunity to inform yourself and you won't be disappointed. You might even become a fan. These artists are incredible and are known for their high energy shows," said Cayen.
Tickets are on sale now. They can be purchased at The Working Class, The Victory Tavern, and online. Full festival passes, which provide guaranteed access to upwards of 25 shows, can be had for $60 plus HST.
Timmins is not generally known as a true hotbed for live music, but attitudes are changing, and bands are hearing great things about Timmins crowds. Cayen is hoping that the public checks out the bands online before coming to the shows, and is happy to provide a bevy of raucous artists in an intimate setting.
"Live music is fun. Reserve your judgment."
