biographical info
The fall of 2011 brings the release of BENEATH THE YUKON MOON – an album of original works by Grant Simpson and Kate Weekes. Stellar song writing and instrumentation ranging from banjo to erhu tells stories of paddling Mayne Island, touring back-road Saskatchewan, biking in Ireland, hiking Purple Mt. and adventuring into the Yukon wild.
Yukon-based Simpson and Weekes have spent the past few years building a repertoire that blends folk and swing as they toured together in BC, performed at the 2010 Nanjing International Jazz Festival in China and head out in November, 2011 on their third tour of the Canadian Prairies.
Simpson’s background in traditional jazz, stride piano and vaudeville theatre mix with Weekes’ bold guitar playing and strong sweet voice. Together they deliver an upbeat show with smart lyrics, catchy melodies and tight arrangements.
Discography from this duo includes Simpson’s solo piano CD “Stride & True”(2004) and “Born 40 Years Too Late” with New Orleans North(2006). Weekes released her self-titled album in 2007 which made her the recipient of the Mac Beattie Award for songs dubbed ‘quintessentially Canadian’. She released an album of northern fiddle tunes with Yukon band Home Sweet Home in 2011.
“His 88 key tickle makes men
swoon and strong women feint.”
-Mitch Podolak, Home Routes
“She is one of the new generation
of songwriters that has shaken
the older generation with clarity
of purpose.”
-Mitch Podolak, Home Routes