6 pm | MATT BRUBECK & CAYLIE STAPLES
Cellist Matt Brubeck and singer Caylie Staples perform completely improvised songs. As the duo creates the music, Caylie makes up all of the words live on stage. Over the years they have developed a remarkable improvisational compatibility in this unique form of spontaneous song creation. Eschewing pre-existing lyrics, melodies, or traditional song forms, their music is a celebration of serendipity, whimsy, and the creative potency of any given moment. Each performance is like a musical trust exercise; going with what the other is giving and committing to keep the balloon up! Their first album of improvised songs,“The Lily”, was released in 2021 to positive reviews.
“Both have impeccable instincts and exercise insight and restraint here as they uncover these vignettes.” – Nick Storring, Riperian Acoustics Newsletter
7 pm | OPEN THREAD
This innovative Melbourne based ensemble is composed of players with great chemistry, including cellist Peggy Lee, saxophonist Julien Wilson, guitarist Theo Carbo, and drummer Dylan van der Schyff. Their recent album weaves together anthemic melodies, diverse rhythmic structures, and a broad range of improvised soundscapes, delivering a unique blend that is both idiosyncratic and reflective of their wide-ranging musical influences. The project showcases each member’s original compositions alongside improvisations to create a unified group sound.
"This band is about the creation of a group sonic palette from which compositional and improvisational ideas can play and flourish," says Dylan van der Schyff. The inception of Open Thread was sparked by Peggy Lee's move to Melbourne and her desire to connect with local musicians. This led to a magical gathering of talents, culminating in an improvised performance at Bar 303 in Melbourne, that hinted at the rich possibilities of their collective sound.
"The joy we have had in making this music is something we hope listeners will feel, finding it both challenging and rewarding upon repeat listens, " explains Lee. "Each musician's deep vocabulary of extended techniques on their instrument, combined with a shared love of melody and song forms, creates an intriguing juxtaposition," explains van der Schyff.
Friday Early Show Ticket:
$25 advance / $30 door (1 event, 2 sets)
Friday Evening Pass:
$38 advance / $45 door (6:00 + 8:30 pm shows, 2 events/4 sets)
Festival Weekend Pass:
$100 (7 ticketed events, 16 sets, up to $235 value)
Discounted Advance Tickets & Passes:
E-transfer (no fee) tix@zulapresents.org or EVENTBRITE (+fee)
Students, Seniors, Underwaged at the Door (cash/e-transfer):
$20/event, $30 day passes, $80 festival pass, in person w/ID
No one will be refused admission for lack of funds
In our 12th year of operation, as Zula Presents Something Else!, we are most grateful to Canada Council for the Arts, Department of Canadian Heritage, and The City of Hamilton for their financial support to make these festival events possible. We would also like to acknowledge and thank our partners Hamilton Public Library and Open Streets for their kind support and enthusiasm.