With action and adventure in mind, Vancouver-based western swing band Petunia and the Vipers are coming to Powell River.
Including sounds ranging from country to charmingly chaotic, kazoo playing and yodelling guitarist Petunia, whose real name is unknown, said if his live show has any purposeful aim, it is to take listeners on a musical journey that pushes through the barrier of what is expected.
"We springboard from traditional roots into uncharted waters sometimes," said Petunia. "I try to make the show as fun as possible."
The performance at Red Lion Pub also features drummer Paul Townsend, upright bassist Patrick Metzger and lap steel guitarist Jimmy Roy. Petunia said whatever happens, the show promises to be fun.
"There is no formal recipe," said Petunia. "Sometimes we make up songs as we go, but if people come they are going to have fun, be inspired and likely feel like dancing."
Petunia, who started as a street musician in Toronto, said he has travelled the world, including the United States, South America, Europe and Middle East, to learn about cultures and play music.
"You see things in new perspectives, through new eyes when you are immersed in different cultures," he said. "It never goes as expected."
Although Petunia and the Vipers recently released a new album entitled Inside of You, Petunia said he is not sure what they will be playing the night of the show.
"There will be a healthy mix of music," said Petunia. "I know hundreds of songs and the band knows hundreds of songs."
An experienced musician who has had multiple tours across Canada and the United Kingdom, Petunia said each time out with the band opens up a world of possibilities and opportunities for excitement and risk.
"Sometimes the van blows a tire and you end up playing a house instead of the intended venue and the show is more of a success than ever," said
Petunia. "And sometimes you are hitchhiking, it's pouring rain and you sleep in a ditch. It is all part of the same experience."
The musical evening also features an opening performance by Powell River group Calliope and the Monday Man.
Named for the steam-powered calliope, a vintage musical instrument associated with circuses and carousels, the two-person act composed of Sonia
Zagwyn and Cameron Twyford finds its inspiration in tales of 1920s and 1930s circus performers.
"We have one song called "Got to Wear a Boa Boa,'" said Zagwyn, "about a snake charmer who doesn't need anything to pick up men but a snake."
With instruments ranging from an Indian banjo to a nameless, stretched animal skin instrument found by the side of the road in Vancouver, sounds from the local duo will provide an eclectic counterpoint to Petunia and the Vipers.
"Imagine an avant-country nightclub scene from a David Lynch movie," said Zagwyn.
The show takes place Friday, January 29 at Red Lion Pub in Wildwood.
