Musicians have a way of scattering, playing in different bands and generally moving along with the musical ebb and flow.
Seven years ago, Graham Mackenzie decided that it would be a cool thing to get some of his musical friends together for a party.
“I guess it all started when I met some musical friends I had lost touch with and said, ‘let’s play some music,’” said Mackenzie. “They were all playing in different cities, different bands, and I suggested we get together for a party.”
And that party ended up being hosted by the 17 Mile Pub. The 17 Mile has open mike nights every Sunday but this was to be something different. An outdoor stage and a lineup of bands soon brought the folks out for a day of music — all kinds of music.
Sookapalooza 2012 is happening on July 28 at the 17 Mile Pub. Music starts at 3 p.m, right after the dodgeball tournament is finished.
“We’re trying to change it to a festival atmosphere,” said Mackenzie. “We want people to wear costumes if they want to.”
He also said the bands lining up for this gig are coming from further afield than the Sooke area. There are different bands coming from the mainland. The Brown Paper Baggers and Butterfly Jam Band are local as is Mackenzie’s band Johnny Galactic. Handsome Distraction is from Victoria and Mackenzie is pleased they are coming to Sookapalooza just before they head off on their Canadian tour. These bands are joined by Tractorgrease Folk from Chilliwack, and The Colebrook Shepherds. Who knows, others may show up as well.
“You will never see this much local talent, with no cover charge, on an outside stage in the trees, with a beautiful waitress taking your order, while you dance like a maniac with good friends in your brand new Sookapalooza shirt,” said Mackenzie on the Sookapalooza 2012 Facebook page.
The music will start out with a folksy/bluesy sound at 3 p.m and move onto reggae, funk/hip hop and end with good old rock n’ roll later in the evening.
It’s a Sooke thing and Mackenzie is pleased with the response from the pub as well as all of the people and friends who help make this event happen.
No cover, no minors and no rain are the key for Sookapalooza 2012.