2026 north island music festival artist
The Doobie Brothers Experience
DBX - The Doobie Brothers Experience" is the industry leading substitute for The Doobie Brothers. Playing to outdoor and theatre audiences is what this production is all about. What makes "DBX" so special? Well, just for starters: visual and vocal similarities of Tom Johnston and Pat Simmons, accurate instrumental work, soaring harmonies, and top flight performances - these are the band's hallmarks, and foundation to which their performance has been built. With over 240 years of collective professional experience in the band today, their performances are as close to the real deal as you'll ever get.
Brice Tabish Band
The Brice Tabish Band’s music brings the early influence of jazz rhythms on classic rock music back to our attention with his blues-inspired brand of original hard rock. While guitarist/vocalist Brice Tabish and bassist Peg Wilson perform on every track, the rest of the band plays musical chairs as drummer Lyndon Dewitt, keyboardist Pat Covernton, keyboardist Rob Blackburn, drummer Tom Skillman, and guitarist Bob Batyi all contribute to different songs on the album. Tabish describes the album as “perfectly imperfect like all of the albums that inspired me. It’s not cut to the grid, it’s not autotuned, and it’s not layered with overdubs. I want to say that it’s not a ‘retro’ album, but if making a 44 minute, 9 song, guitar oriented rock album that occasionally gets a little proggy and isn’t quantized to death is retro, then maybe it’s a little retro.
Hounds of Cuchulain
The Hounds of Cuchulain are a seven-piece band from Victoria, BC, delivering vibrant performances steeped in Irish, Scottish, English, and original folk music. Inspired by legends like The Dubliners, The Pogues, The Irish Rovers, The Corries, and The Chieftains, their dynamic shows feature lively dance tunes, historical ballads, engaging stories, and enchanting melodies.
The group comprises Wolf Edwards on lead vocals and guitar; Madeleine Townley on tin whistle, Irish harp, and vocals; Briana Kennedy on fiddle and vocals; Dexter Simpson on Irish tenor banjo; Benjamin Garrison on mandolin and vocals; Jeff Feltmate on fiddle and bodhrán; and Theodore Waite on double bass.
J.PLANK
J. Plank (Jeff Plankenhorn) is a BC-based, internationally touring singer-songwriter and master of the lap steel guitar. Known for soulful vocals, dynamic stagecraft, and a sound that bridges roots, blues, and folk, he has spent decades captivating audiences across North America, Europe, and Japan. Plank is a highly respected musician recognized for his skill as a slide guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, gaining acclaim both as a solo artist and as a sought-after session player. His style blends blues, folk, and roots into a sound that’s uniquely his own.
Anna Katarina
Anna Katarina is a Canadian-American indie-pop-Americana singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and performer known for her authentic voice, candid lyrics, and genre-blending compositions. She was raised in British Columbia and Appalachian North Carolina, and her music draws inspiration from artists like Joni Mitchell, Sheryl Crow, and Stevie Nicks.
runner
runner is a Vancouver-based band led by singer-songwriter Kira Cuthbertson. After moving west from Calgary to work in the audio industry, Kira met bandmates Mackenzie Knight, Hayden Watson, and Alex Walters in local studios long before they ever shared a stage.
The name runner is a nod to their beginnings behind the scenes, with most of the band getting their start as studio runners. Their sound blends prairie folk, alt-country, and indie rock, reminiscent of what Tom Petty may have written if he was...a woman. Or like if Sheryl Crow listened to a lot of Big Thief.
Drew Storey
Drew Storey is an emerging singer-songwriter and band leader from Langley, BC, with a unique blend of introspective lyricism, pop hooks, and rock energy. Writing and performing as a solo artist since 2015, Drew captures the essence of personal reflection while delivering infectious energy and enthusiasm to further connect with the audience. His performances have been referred to as Rex Orange County meets Bruce Springsteen, blending thoughtful lyrics with creative, high-energy showmanship and nostalgic sounds.
Sidewinder
SIDEWINDER is a Vancouver Island heavy metal band led by vocalist Riley MacNeil and guitarist Jay MacNeil. Fueled by ’80s metal influences, the band blends riff-driven songwriting, powerhouse vocals, and explosive live performances, bringing high-voltage intensity from start to finish.
Norman Foote
Norman’s passion for songwriting, story telling and comedy has taken him to amazing concerts and communities throughout the world. His ability to find ageless melodies and interesting subject matter brings laughter and singing to audiences big and small. He has gathered music awards along the way including a Juno and several WCMA awards. Norman has written and recorded for Disney records, CBC, Shari Lewis, Max and Ruby and others
WHISKEY JACKS
Whiskey Jacks has been Port Hardy's band for decades .The band name and members have changed over the years but Port Hardy's band keeps on going with music from the 70's to present.Come out and dance the night away with Whiskey Jacks.
The band....
Bob... lead guitar backup vocals
Jen...Lead vocals
Frank..rhythm guitar & vocals
Neil..bass guitar & vocals
Carlos...drums & vocals
