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.

You know that music that you put on that instantly gets you in a better mood and headspace? That’s the kind of music Shakey Graves delivers. Shakey Graves is self-described as “a gentleman from Texas” and this simple statement truly reflects his musical style—uncomplicated, smooth, pure and irresistible.

Despite being a one-man musician, Shakey Graves is still profoundly effective at capturing your attention. With a scrumming guitar, soft vocals and old kick drum, Shakey Graves is able to bring a sound that transcends an audience into a euphoric state of peace and bliss. Having released four strong albums, Shakey Graves is no veteran to the folk music scene. His most recent album, And the War Came, features hit single Dearly Departed, which has been heard on local stations like The Peak. Dearly Departed has an upbeat melody, soft vocals and excellent mix of both a fast and slow rhythm that is the perfect soundtrack to a day at the lake or a road trip adventure.

Bringing a mixed musical flavour of folk, blues, country and rock, it is no wonder Shakey Graves has received recognition all over North America—scoring appearances on late-night shows such as Conan and David Letterman, as well as appearing at numerous musical festivals like Austin City Limits and Bonnaroo. Shakey Graves, who’s real name is Alejandro Rose-Garcia, comes from a theater background, so he is no stranger to the stage, which is seen through the confidence he exudes—something admirable for a one-man band.

Shakey Graves’ ability to touch so many musical genres, makes it easy for him to attract a large and diverse fan base by offering a little something for everyone—making him a true festival favourite. Further, the addition of new collaborations on his most-recent album such as Esmé Patterson (on Dearly Departed) has broadened his reach. The proof is in the over 2 million streams on Spotify for recent hit, Dearly Departed.

So if you are looking for fierce musical talent and a toe-tapping good time, be sure to check out Shakey Graves—we guarantee you’ll leave impressed and inspired.

Don’t miss your chance to see Shakey Graves live at The Calgary Folk Music Festival:

Thursday July 23 at 8:50 p.m. on Stage 4

In the meantime, we’ve left you some Shakey Graves songs to get you ready for the 23rd:

Dearly Departed- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmo5u9OjafE

Roll the Bones- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sD72LbIk02M