SILVER WATER—Toes were tapping and hands clapping as the Kagawong Folk/Roots Collective provided a lively evening of old time gospel music to a full house at the United Church in Silver Water last Saturday evening.
The evening started with a beautiful a cappella rendition of ‘Diamonds in the Rough,’ showcasing the vocal harmonies of the five talented musicians. A variety of string and percussion instruments supported those harmonies in other pieces, including ‘Down to the River,’ a traditional spiritual enjoying renewed popularity as part of the soundtrack from the movie ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou,’ the early 20th century ‘Denomination Blues’ rediscovered by American roots musician Ry Cooder, and Bob Dylan’s ‘I Shall Be Released.’
The crowd joined in with other favourites such as, ‘Just a Closer Walk with Thee,’ and ‘Will the Circle be Unbroken.’ The Collective’s rendition of ‘I’ll Fly Away’ had everyone in the audience on their feet clapping, stomping, and singing along.
An intermission provided time for all to mix and meet and socialize with neighbours and friends while enjoying a fantastic array of home baking prepared by the United Church Women of the West End of Manitoulin.
The evening was organized as a fund raiser for the Angel Bus, the vehicle that had transported several residents of Manitoulin Lodge and their assistants to the concert. In thanking the crowd for their support, Gloria Hall remarked how the Angel Bus and its dedicated volunteer drivers have enhanced the quality of life for many of the Lodge’s residents by enabling them to attend off-site social functions, family gatherings and church services.
