Written By: Lauren Steeves

The Calgary Folk Music Festival is right around the corner, so we are going to be profiling a few acts that are worth checking out this year.

One band that has come a long way in the past few years is Reuben and the Dark. Not only is the indie-alt-rock band super talented—but they are also from YYC. Reuben and the Dark’s debut album, Funeral Sky, has garnered high praise and recognition in the North American music scene, with particular focus on their single Rolling Stone—a song that is a rich, moody and power-driven. Rolling Stone is a regular staple on radio stations like X92.9 and The Peak—so there’s a high possibility that you have already jammed out to it on your morning commute.

However, Reuben and the Dark hold strength beyond Rolling Stone, as Funeral Sky delivers other noteworthy songs like Bow and Arrow and Devil’s Time. The band comes from a unique background both personally and professionally, which is something that draws listeners to their craft and keeps them intrigued. From a musical stance, the band had the opportunity to work with Chris Hayden, the drummer from Florence and the Machine and producer Stephen Kozmeniuk for their debut album. Kozmeniuk is known for his work with popular artists such as Kanye West, Madonna and Nicki Minaj. Both Hayden and Kozmeniuk’s influence can be heard throughout Funeral Sky, but Reuben and the Dark still manage to put their own signature touch on the album.

For instance, lead singer Reuben Bullock draws musical inspiration from his own personal experiences, which include a religious upbringing that he rebelled against and escaping the Thailand Tsunami in 2004. Bullock’s exploration of life’s ups and downs enables Reuben and the Dark to deliver music that is dark, passionate and haunting— all while coming from a raw and genuine place— leaving no doubt that this band is here to stay.

Don’t miss your chance to see Reuben and the Dark live at The Calgary Folk Music Festival:

Friday July 24 at 4:30 p.m. on Stage 3

Saturday July 25 at 10:30 a.m. on Stage 5

Saturday July 25 at 1:50 p.m. on Stage 6

In the meantime, we’ve left you some Reuben and the Dark tunes to get you pumped up:

Rolling Stone- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsEJxHVM1W0

Bow and Arrow- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh4ii-LB7zw

Devil’s Time- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=76cBZphyqq0