Pipestone Flyer
MGM Grand acts moving to the Loonstock III concert at the Loons Golf Course in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada. The transition from the glitter and bright lights of an MGM Grand stage to the Loonstock stage nestled in trees and a lush green countryside.
Seems unreal that Las Vegas performers will make be making such a transition, but it’s true. On Saturday, August 16th, 2014, both Las Vegas performers John Anthony and Rachel Swindler will be arriving in Wetaskiwin and performing on the stage at the 3rd annual Loonstock concert.
John Anthony shares his personal views on temporarily relocating from a Las Vegas stage to the Loonstock stage in Wetaskiwin. “I'm definitely looking forward to performing in your area. I've performed in Canada quite a few times now, and I've always had a most pleasant experience. As usual, I am expecting wonderful, welcoming crowds that always prove to be very supportive and appreciative of live music. And unlike the Las Vegas venues where shows are somewhat structured, I'm looking forward to performing outdoors, being surrounded by the scenic location, and giving my best re-creation of my Salute to Rod Stewart in my own passionate way --- the way I've seen the Legend perform many times. Along with the beautiful and talented singer Rachael Swindler, and backed by our all-star Las Vegas based band, this concert promises to be an exciting, fun filled summer night. Looking forward to seeing everyone there.”
Loonstock promoter Larry Moussa describes the event as, “This is a great opportunity to promote Wetaskiwin by providing a show that will draw people into our community. The more people that come into Wetaskiwin means more business for all the local businesses that will benefit from the spinoff…. gas stations, grocery stores, retail, car dealerships and all the others.” This concert will contribute to the economic development of Wetaskiwin with zero cost to the ratepayers.
The Loonstock Concert has taken on a modified identity for 2014 to provide entertainment that is, “something for everyone.” As the sun crosses the stage shortly after 1:00 pm on August 16th, the concert will be packed with six hours of diverse styles of country music. But, as the daylight changes to dusk and dusk to dark, there will changes in music style for the next four hours to rock and finally the concert will end with vibrant AC/DC and Guns and Roses style music.
Loonstock 2014 is designed with something for everyone. By building on previous successful features and adding new ones, Moussa reveals some attractive features, “Loonstock 2014 will include on site camping at $20 for three days; early bird ticket purchasers get a free round of golf and 1st choice for camping spots; beer gardens all day; VIP special seating; admission of $89 for VIP, $69 for general admission and $42 for 17 and under and three new water equipped toilets for the ladies.
The Concert will have food and beverages to suit all appetites; kettle corn, mini donuts, coffee supplied by Beans Coffee Bistro, hot dogs, hamburgers and the popular BBQ beef with trimmings.
The entertainment:
1) John Anthony is arriving direct from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas to treat concert goers with his incredible Tribute to Rod Stewart. John’s natural look resembles Rod so much that he is constantly mistaken for the Legend himself. While covering a few Rod Stewart songs with his Boston based band, John discovered he had the ability to emulate Rod’s voice and mannerisms. The result is now a polished, spot on recreation of an authentic Rod Stewart concert.
2) David James and his band Big River are North America’s favourite Johnny Cash tribute act, performing the hits spanning five decades of Johnny’s career. Most tribute bands consciously try to look, act and sound like their idols. Dave doesn’t have to try. His natural voice is so close to Johnny Cash, which is the reason this whole project started at all. David James entertains with that same principle, singing all of the great Cash songs you love including, ‘I Walk The Line’, ‘Solitary Man’, ‘Get Rhythm’, ‘Folsom Prison’, ‘Ring of Fire’ and newer songs like ‘Hurt’ and ‘Rusty Cage’.
3) Rachel Swindler direct from Las Vegas will electrify the audience with her renditions of songs made popular by hard rock bands, AC/DC, Guns and Roses and many more.
4) Rounding out the cast is Ken Mastel performing a tribute to Hank Williams, Aaron Goodvine, Nashville recording artist and Nashville Star finalist, and the gorgeous Christina Dennehy.
‘As the sun crosses the sky above Loonstock, the type of music will change. There will be something for everyone on site while the entire community of Wetaskiwin will benefit.’ To learn more or to purchase tickets, call (780) 352 3300.
Pictured: David James and his Johnny Cash Tribute Band, Big River. Photo submitted