Country music took over The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern on Thursday night at Indie Week 2018, and we were there to take it in.
We spent a few chilly evening hours on the checkerboard floors watching as Brad James, Petric, and Danielle Bourjeaurd took their turns playing for the Toronto crowd.
And while we weren't able to stay for the end of the show with Jerry Leger & The Situation and The Redhill Valleys, we've been told that both acts put on a show worthy of the legendary stage they stood on.
After an afternoon at The Joint watching the ole songwriter's circle, we were ready for more music. And at The Horseshoe on Thursday night, we got it.
Related: Clayton Bellamy, Amanda Rheaume & Petric - ole Songwriter's Circle at Indie Week 2018
The evening got started with Brad James taking the stage. The Hamilton singer-songwriter brought a full band with him to The 'Shoe, and it was the right call.
The Boots & Hearts 2018 Emerging Artist Showcase finalist showed us once again that he belongs in front of an audience with a microphone and his guitar. James played a set of original tracks on Thursday night, moving between upbeat and slowed down vibes. And in both cases, he showed strength.
We've seen growth and development in Brad James already in his young career, and we can't wait to see where he goes.
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Thursday night at The Horseshoe Tavern gave us the chance to see Danielle Bourjeaurd at Indie Week for the second year in a row.
Last year we caught Danielle at The Dakota Tavern on her way to being named Best Emerging Artist at the festival. And this year, she backed up that title, showing everyone that she's got the songs and the talent to catch the attention of country music fans. We heard her play tracks from Country Sorta Way, including Happy Hour, Lakeside, and What Difference Does She Make. As an added special moment Danielle belted out a cover of Janis Joplin's classic Piece Of My Heart.
Related: Danielle Bourjeaurd at Indie Week 2017
Danielle was joined on stage by former Cold Creek County singer Ches Anthony, who played guitar and took his own turn on the microphone. Bourjeaurd has been writing with Anthony as he prepares a solo album. On Thursday night we heard Anthony sing a new song called Old School, as well as take Gord Bamford's part on Bourjeaurd's duet, Bigger Glass.
The combination of the two emerging country artists was a great bonus on the night, and if it's a look at what we can expect from both of them, country fans are in luck in the future.
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The Horseshoe Tavern showcase on Thursday night also gave us our second opportunity of the night to see Winnipeg country duo (and one of our 10 Don't Miss Bands at Indie Week 2018), Petric.
Brothers, Jason and Tom Petric made the trip from The Joint to The Horseshoe to wrap up their quick Indie Week 2018 trip, and play a selection of new songs and recordings from their career thus far.
With their double acoustic guitar set-up accompanied by a cajón on the Toronto stage, Petric played a set of eight songs, including their Top 20 single, 18 Ends. Throughout the set the boys sounded strong, taking advantage of the stripped-down nature of their show to let the songs shine.
Related: 18 Ends - Petric EP Review
After the set, we had a quick chance to talk to Jason who told us that he loves playing those acoustic sets just as much as the full band festival type shows. And from where we sit, their ability to do both serves as proof that this Canadian country duo has all of the tools to continue growing into a household name in the genre.
Note: On Saturday night, Petric took home awards for Single and Songwriters of the Year at the Manitoba Country Music Awards, putting a cherry on top of their fantastic 2018.
We've had the opportunity to keep our eyes on Petric since they debuted nearly three and a half years ago. Their progress in that time is a testament to their dedication and talent. And we have no doubt that their continued effort will lead to even more success.
Related: Petric at Boots & Hearts 2018
Jason also told us that 2019 is shaping up to be a big year for the band. We can't wait to see it!
Petric Indie Week 2018 Setlist, The Horseshoe Tavern
🎵 Band Of Brothers
🎵 Here Goes Everything
🎵 It Girl
🎵 Single Problem
🎵 White Lying
🎵 All She Wrote
🎵 Can't Say No
🎵 18 Ends
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Photo Credits (Brad James, Petric): Trish Cassling
Photo Credits (Danielle Bourjeaurd, Ches Anthony): Joshua Murray
