East Coast DnA Podcast

15/01/2025

🎶 New Episode featuring Shane Pendergast🎶

We’re thrilled to bring you a new episode of the East Coast DNA podcast, today at noon, featuring Shane Pendergast! Shane talks about his new album, "Winter Grace," and his incredible journey in folk music, from his roots in PEI to upcoming performances.

Can you guess which other PEI musicians came together to record this album with Shane? 🤔🎤

Watch the full episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/SR_uDoSJz38?si=5jdbgV7Miei0SJdP

East Coast DNA Podcast: Featuring Shane Pendergast 🎶In this episode, we sit down with the incredibly talented Shane Pendergast to discuss his upcoming album...

10/01/2025

🎶 Open Waters Festival! 🎶

Get ready for an unforgettable musical journey at the iconic Open Waters Festival in Halifax, Nova Scotia! 🌊✨ With the Open Waters Festival Pass, dive into the vibrant rhythms of both local and international music artists. 🎤🎸

Your OWF '25 pass includes access to all festival events:

📅 Wed, Jan. 8
7:30 PM: FSPA New Music Ensemble @ Strug Hall FSPA
9:00 PM: E27 musique nouvelle @ Strug Hall FSPA

📅 Thurs, Jan. 9
7:30 PM: Symphony Nova Scotia @ St. Andrew's

📅 Fri, Jan. 10
7:30 PM: Tom Roach Ensemble @ Strug Hall FSPA
9:00 PM: Constant/Crofts @ Strug Hall FSPA
10:00 PM: Sahara Jane and Ken Shorley @ MacAloney Room

📅 Sat, Jan. 11
1:00 PM: Improvisation Talk Back @ Piercy Hall FSPA
2:30 PM: Jennifer King @ MacAloney Room
4:00 PM: FSPA Composers @ MacAloney Room
7:30 PM: Suddenly Listen: Triple Bill @ Strug Hall FSPA
9:00 PM: Dan Pitt Quintet @ Strug Hall FSPA
10:00 PM: Arrest the Crown @ MacAloney Room

📅 Sun, Jan. 12
2:30 PM: Sam Wilson in concert @ MacAloney Room*
4:00 PM: Open Borders @ MacAloney Room
7:30 PM: Many Worlds @ Strug Hall FSPA
9:00 PM: Champagne Weather @ Strug Hall FSPA*

* previous guests of East Coast DNA (see YouTube.com/ for more)

For over 34 years, the Upstream Music Association has been at the forefront of experimental music, presenting festivals, diverse ensembles, workshops, and online experiences. 🎶✨

🎟️ Get your tickets or festival pass now at upstream.simpletix.ca! 🎉

Don't miss out on this incredible festival experience! Grab your pass now and be part of the musical magic. 🎟️🎉

09/01/2025

🎉 Happy Birthday to The Commune’s very own Derrick! 🎉

For years, The Commune has been a cornerstone of the East Coast music scene. From its roots in New Glasgow to its new home in Truro with Commune Snack Bar, Derrick has been a champion for indie music, creating a space where local artists can shine. Whether it's great food, drinks, or unforgettable performances, Derrick's dedication to supporting the arts is truly inspiring.

Swipe through for photos of Andre Pettipas’ incredible Dec 28, 2024, performance at the pop-up snack bar (563 Prince St., Truro, NS)—captured by East Coast DNA's Darcy Walsh. (I'll have to make a point to snap shots of Derrick and Jenna on our next visit to CSB)

Happy birthday, Derrick! 🎂 Here’s to another year of amazing food, music, and community. We can't wait to see what The Commune camp has in store for 2025! 🙌🎶

🎂🎉

07/01/2025

🎙️ East Coast DNA Podcast: WhyGo’s Big Move & Send-Off Show 🎸

Join East Coast DNA host Darcy Walsh as he chats with Tanner, John, and Brady from local rock band WhyGo! 🎶 The band shares exciting news about relocating to Kingston, Ontario this spring and talks about their send-off show at Glasgow Square Theatre in New Glasgow, NS, on February 15 with special guests Sweet Serene.

🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/iZxhABcHw-A?si=7Jgxc8ty6ZFg20fi

🎟️ Event Details:
📍 Glasgow Square Theatre
📆 February 15
🎟️ Tickets: Early bird $20 (ends January 15) | Regular $25
Available at https://tproatlantic.ticketpro.ca/en/pages/WHYGO

Don’t miss this insightful chat about WhyGo’s journey, their music, and what’s next! Like, share, and follow East Coast DNA for more artist interviews and music updates. 🎸✨

🎙️ East Coast DNA Podcast - WhyGo’s Big Move & Send-Off Show 🎸Join East Coast DNA host Darcy Walsh, from a top secret location, as he sits down with Tanner...

01/01/2025

🎉 What a night! 🎉

Last night’s New Year’s Eve celebration at Grand Parade in Halifax was absolutely unforgettable! 💥✨ From the incredible performances by Pineo & Loeb, Ashley MacIsaac, Jah’Mila, JRDN, and Andre Pettipas, to the surprise guest appearance by the legendary K-Os, the energy was electric! ⚡🎶 We were also treated to a fantastic opening set by Aquakultre, kicking off the night in style.

A huge thank you to the City of Halifax for hosting such an amazing event. 🙌 Also, big shoutout to the performers, including our friends Pineo & Loeb and Andre Pettipas, and all the hardworking behind-the-scenes crews who made this event run smoothly. 👏

The grand finale? A stunning fireworks show that lit up the sky and ushered in 2025 in the most spectacular way possible! 🎆

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year 2025! May this year bring you happiness, success, and unforgettable memories. Thank you to all our followers for supporting us at East Coast DNA. We can’t wait to share more of what’s to come this year! 🌟



📸: Darcy Walsh

31/12/2024

Happy Dre Year’s Eve

🎸✨ On December 21, music fans in Pictou County packed Fat Tony’s for an electrifying night as Andre Pettipas and K-Os brought their East Coast tour to town! (📸: Darcy Walsh)

Andre Pettipas has had an incredibly busy and productive year, filled with full band and solo performances, collaborative projects, touring across the country, and creating unforgettable moments like these. East Coast DNA was along for the ride all year long, capturing the energy and passion that Andre brings to every stage.

We are looking forward to what 2025 has in store for us all!

🌟 TONIGHT: Ring in the New Year with a FREE show at Grand Parade in Halifax, right in front of City Hall! 🎉🔥

🎶 Featuring an incredible lineup of performers:
⭐Pineo and Loeb
💙 Aquakultre
❤️ Ashley MacIsaac
💙 Jah’Mila
❤️ JRDN
💙 Andre Pettipas
🔥 Plus, a surprise legendary Canadian act!

Stick around for midnight fireworks as we kick off 2025 in style. Let’s make it a night to remember! 🎆

29/12/2024

🎸✨ Andre Pettipas & K-Os Bring the Energy to Fat Tony’s!

Last weekend, Pictou County was treated to an unforgettable night at Fat Tony’s as Andre Pettipas and K-Os delivered an electrifying performance on their East Coast tour. K-Os, the legendary hip-hop artist and Canadian music icon, wowed the crowd with his dynamic energy and timeless hits. His chemistry with our own Andre Pettipas created a show-stopping atmosphere that left everyone buzzing.

🎶 As a special treat, the evening also featured incredible performances by R.I.T.C.H.I.E., StoneHouse, and Contrived! StoneHouse and Contrived gave us a sneak peek of what to expect at their rescheduled deCoste Centre show in January.

📸 Stay tuned for exclusive photos from the evening featuring all the acts and moments that made this night one for the books.
Photo Credit: Darcy Walsh

🎄✨ Holiday Wish: Can we have K-Os back on the East Coast ASAP? His synergy with Andre is unmatched, and we can’t wait to see them light up the stage together again!

20/12/2024

🎙️ East Coast DNA Podcast: Apollo Sessions Vol. 1 with Al MacGillivray

In this episode, host Darcy Walsh sits down with Al MacGillivray to discuss the highly anticipated launch of the Apollo Sessions at the deCoste Performing Arts Centre in Pictou, Nova Scotia. The inaugural event, happening this Saturday, December 21, promises an unforgettable evening celebrating homegrown Nova Scotia talent.

Apollo Sessions Vol. 1 will feature a headlining performance by Halifax rock legends Contrived, supported by Pictou County’s own StoneHouse, and live painting by visual artist Taylor MacLean.

With roots in renowned acts like Wintersleep, Holy F*ck, Billy Talent, and Matt Mays, Contrived has been a fixture in the Canadian music scene for over two decades. Their latest album, Addicted to Sadness, blends sharp, topical lyrics with intricate melodies, offering fans a perfect balance of nostalgia and evolution.

StoneHouse, a rock and roll trio cut from Pictou County’s cloth, brings an authentic, soulful vibe to the stage, channeling their small-town roots into music that blends rock, country, and soul.

During the conversation, Al shares insights into the vision behind the Apollo Sessions and the importance of spotlighting Nova Scotia's vibrant music and arts scene. Whether you're a long-time fan of these artists or discovering them for the first time, this episode sets the stage for a night you won’t want to miss!

🎟 Tickets: Available Now at decostecentre.ca

📍 Event Details: Saturday, December 21, deCoste Performing Arts Centre, Pictou, NS.
Plan to stay in Pictou a little later with Andre Pettipas and K-Os celebrating with an after show at Fat Tony's. Tickets on sale now:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/k-os-presents-jingle-bell-rock-at-fat-tonys-tickets-1091157293839

📢 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to East Coast DNA for more stories from Atlantic Canada’s thriving music scene!

18/12/2024

🎙️ Jon Cornwall - Grinchy Me | Song Spotlight & Interview 🎄

Get ready for an inside look at Grinchy Me, the latest Christmas single by Halifax-based folk and Canadiana artist Jon Cornwall. Featured on his sophomore album, Great Villagers, this heartfelt holiday track explores the stress and emotional overwhelm of the season—balanced with joy, support, and finding comfort in loved ones.

🌟 About the Song:
Grinchy Me is a touching and relatable Christmas song about seasonal sadness, obligations, and the importance of asking for help. Inspired by Jon's personal struggles, this soon-to-be holiday classic is a blend of folk and roots with a warm, nostalgic vibe.

🎥 Behind the Video:
Discover the unique making of the Grinchy Me music video, directed by Andrew Buckles (Brojects). With quirky upside-down chin puppets and clever cinematography, this innovative film perfectly captures the emotions of Jon's song.

🌟 About Jon Cornwall:
With a career spanning decades, Jon Cornwall has shared stages with iconic artists like Ron Sexsmith, Great Big Sea, and Lennie Gallant. After a 27-year hiatus, he’s back with Great Villagers, showcasing his lyrical storytelling, heartfelt melodies, and love for folk and Canadiana music.

✨ Watch, listen, and celebrate the season:
🎶 Stream Grinchy Me and the album: joncornwall.com
📺 Watch the music video: [Link to video]

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more artist interviews, new music spotlights, and holiday inspiration!

🎙️ Jon Cornwall - Grinchy Me | Song Spotlight & Interview 🎄Get ready for an inside look at Grinchy Me, the latest Christmas single by Halifax-based folk an...

11/12/2024

Congratulations to Whitecap Entertainment from East Coast DNA Podcast

We at East Coast DNA Podcast would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Whitecap Entertainment on their remarkable achievement of generating over $30 million in economic impact for Prince Edward Island in 2024!

Your dedication to creating exceptional experiences through the Cavendish Beach Music Festival and Sommo Festival has not only brought world-class entertainment to Atlantic Canada but has also greatly benefited PEI’s local businesses, extended the Island's tourism season, and supported over 1,000 staff members. Hosting 90,000 attendees across your festivals this year is a true testament to your hard work and vision.

Special kudos for the bold move of transitioning Sommo Festival into September, effectively transforming the shoulder season into a time of economic growth and vibrant activity. Your efforts have set a new standard for the tourism and music industries in the region, and we are thrilled to witness the positive ripple effects on PEI’s community and economy.

As fans eagerly await the return of the Cavendish Beach Music Festival with headliners like Shania Twain, Tyler Hubbard, and Lainey Wilson, and anticipate exciting announcements for Sommo Festival 2025, we know Whitecap Entertainment will continue to deliver unforgettable experiences.

Here’s to more success, more music, and more impact in the years to come. Thank you for showcasing the best of Atlantic Canada to the world and for keeping our vibrant East Coast culture thriving.

Cheers,
Darcy Walsh and the East Coast DNA Podcast Team

10/12/2024

🎉 Nelly’s Where The Party At Tour – Coming to Atlantic Canada! 🎉

💥 Celebrate 25 years of Country Grammar with multi-platinum, multi-diamond-selling, 3x Grammy-winning superstar Nelly! His highly anticipated Where The Party At Tour brings the energy, hits, and surprises to Halifax for one unforgettable night.

🔥 Special Guests: Expect megawatt performances from Nelly's collaborators like Ja Rule, Eve, St. Lunatics, Fabolous, Jermaine Dupri, Chingy, and more! (Lineups vary by city with additional surprise guests!)

🎶 Get ready for chart-topping anthems like Hot in Herre, Dilemma, Ride wit Me, and more as Nelly takes fans on a journey through his legendary career.

💥 Tickets:
🎟️ General on sale begins Friday, December 13 at 10 AM local time at RealNelly.com.
🎟️ Presale: Starts Tuesday, December 10 at 10 AM local time.
American Express® Card Members Presale: December 10–12.
📢 Full presale details at RealNelly.com.
🌟 VIP Packages Available!

Includes premium tickets, exclusive swag, autographed posters, and even opportunities to meet Nelly or sit on stage during the show! Details at vipnation.com and rncentertainment.com/nelly-vip.

🎤 Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to party with Nelly as he hits Halifax on his biggest tour yet!

📍 ATLANTIC CANADA SHOWS
Friday, April 11 – Scotiabank Centre, Halifax
Saturday, April 12 – Avenir Centre, Moncton
🔥 Special Guests: JA RULE, ST. LUNATICS, and JERMAINE DUPRI

🎟️ TICKETS:
Artist Presale: Available starting Tuesday, December 10.
General On Sale: Begins Friday, December 13 at 10 AM local time at RealNelly.com.

🎶 Experience chart-topping hits like Hot in Herre, Dilemma, and Ride wit Me in an unforgettable night of music and celebration.

Get your tickets early and join the party with Nelly and friends as they light up the stage in Halifax and Moncton!

10/12/2024

🌸 Jake Ballard’s New Album: Silver Bloom 🌸

🎸 From Dartmouth, NS, Jake Ballard brings a fresh take on roots-rock, psychedelic, and acoustic soundscapes with his signature virtuosic fingerpicking style and electrifying stage presence.

His third album, Silver Bloom (released last month), marks a bold step into uncharted sonic landscapes. ✨ Soaked in reverb and packed with emotional, heavy-hitting lyrics, the 10 tracks explore a liminal aesthetic with tight improvisation and mysterious guitar tones.

🎶 Co-produced by Halifax talent Laura Merrimen, and recorded at Ocean Floor Recording with Franc Lopes, Silver Bloom is a heartfelt, innovative project that’s already turning heads.

🎵 Listen now to experience a blend of soulful vocals, explosive energy, and deep lyricism, inspired by themes of romance, disillusionment, and maritime culture.

🔗 Explore Silver Bloom:
💿 jakeballard.bandcamp.com
🌐 jakeballardmusic.com

Stream it now and follow Jake for upcoming shows! 🖤

10/12/2024

🎶 Music PEI Announces 2025 Award Nominees & Festival Passes 🎶

Exciting news for PEI’s music lovers! 🎉 Music PEI has revealed the nominees for the 2025 Music PEI Awards, and the competition is fierce! Leading the pack with 6 nominations each are Dylan Menzie and Vishtèn Connexions, followed by Hikado with 5, and Absolute Losers and Richard Wood with 4 each. 🌟

This year, they’re also honoring:
🏆 Phase II: Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by the City of Charlottetown.
🏅 Rory O'Donnell: Leo Cheverie Community Contributor Award, presented by Sara Roach Lewis Solutions.

✨ Public voting is open for:
📣 Ocean 100 & Hot 105.5 Entertainer of the Year
🎥 Maritime Electric Music Video of the Year
🗓️ Vote online from Dec 10 to Jan 3 at musicpei.com! Every vote counts!

🌟 Early Bird Festival Passes are on sale now! 🌟
🎫 Get access to all major events during Music PEI Week 2025 (March 4-8) for only $80! Don’t miss out—prices go up after Jan 13.

Join us in celebrating PEI’s incredible music scene with unforgettable performances, inspiring stories, and the awards gala honoring the best in Island music. 🎤🎸

🔗 Head to musicpei.com for the full list of nominees, festival info, and tickets. Let’s make this an event to remember!

09/12/2024

🎄✨ A Trinity Hall Christmas Vol. 2 IS HERE! ✨🎄

Scilly Cove Records proudly presents its second Christmas compilation album, released in support of the Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation. 🎁

Following last year’s success, where over $15,000 was raised, they’ve brought together an incredible lineup of Newfoundland artists to celebrate the season and support this important cause.

🎶 Featuring holiday classics and original tracks from:
Amanda Stone • Darcy Scott feat. Reagan Scott • Summer Bennett • Courtney Wicks • Clare Follett • Selina Boland • AMITY • Cory Tetford • The Rogue Malones • Nick Earle • Chad Hunt • Julia Dawson • Robert & Ron Kelly • Alan Doyle • Rachel Cousins • Janeil Chantelle • The Navigators with Vicki Doyle

🎟️ Live Album Release Show:
🎤 Held Dec. 7 @ Trinity Hall (Relive it via NTV+!)

🎟️ Upcoming Shows:
🎤 Dec. 13 @ All Hallows Elementary, North River
🎤 Dec. 14 @ Majestic Theatre, St. John’s

💿 Don’t miss your chance to own this heartfelt collection! Order now at scillycoverecords.com

Let’s come together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and make a difference for the Janeway Children’s Hospital. ❤️🎶

02/12/2024

🎶 Avril Lavigne Extends Greatest Hits Tour Into 2025! 🎤

Atlantic Canada, get ready! Due to overwhelming fan demand, Avril Lavigne is bringing her sold-out Greatest Hits Tour to Moncton and Halifax next spring! 🌟

🗓️ Dates to Remember:
📍 Moncton, NB: May 18 – Avenir Centre
📍 Halifax, NS: May 20 – Scotiabank Centre

✨ Featuring special guests Fefe Dobson and We The Kings, this tour promises unforgettable performances of Avril’s biggest hits like “Sk8er Boi”, “Girlfriend”, and “Complicated”. 🎸

🎟️ Tickets:

Presale: Tuesday, December 3 @ 10 AM
General Sale: Friday, December 6 @ 10 AM
Available at avrillavigne.com
💎 VIP packages offer premium seats, merch, and access to the I’M WITH YOU Lounge.

With over 50 million albums sold worldwide, Avril is a true legend, and she’s ready to rock the Maritimes! Don’t miss this epic show!

📢 Tag your friends and share your favorite Avril hit in the comments! 💬

01/12/2024

🎤 East Coast DNA Chats with Rising Star Evan Cooper 🎶

In this episode of East Coast DNA, host Darcy Walsh sits down with 14-year-old singer-songwriter Evan Cooper at the Marigold Cultural Arts Centre in Truro, NS. Hailing from Fredericton, NB, Evan shares insights into his creative journey, what inspires his heartfelt lyrics, and his ambitions as a young artist breaking into the music scene.

From his debut single "Don't Come Crying Back to Me" to his performances at events like the Harvest Music Festival and the NB Talent Competition, Evan's story is one of passion, perseverance, and undeniable talent. Whether you're a fan of Shawn Mendes, Noah Kahan, or Ed Sheeran, you’ll love hearing how Evan combines pop and alternative folk influences to create his unique sound.

📺 Watch the full interview on YouTube to discover Evan's thoughts on songwriting, live performances, and his goals for the future.

🚨 Subscribe to East Coast DNA on YouTube, your favorite podcast platforms, and your preferred social media channels. The more followers we have, the more amazing artists like Evan Cooper we can feature. Bringing these talented musicians extra exposure is just as important as making compelling content for you, the viewer!

📍 Follow Evan's journey and explore the vibrant East Coast music scene.

RELEASED at 12 noon AST December 1, 2024
Subscribe to East Coast DNA to set your Notification now.

🔗

🎤 East Coast DNA Chats with Rising Star Evan Cooper 🎶In this episode of East Coast DNA, host Darcy Walsh sits down with 14-year-old singer-songwriter Evan ...

29/11/2024

We’re thrilled to feature Justin McGrath, the frontman of Truro’s own Shadow Folk, known for their psychedelic soundscapes and unforgettable live performances. 🌌✨

📍 Recorded at the Marigold Cultural Centre, Justin shares the story behind the band, their creative process, and what fans can expect from their electrifying show TONIGHT at The Commune in Truro, NS. 🔥

👉 Don’t miss this episode and be sure to follow Shadow Folk and East Coast DNA to stay in the loop with all the latest music and events.

🔗 Watch or listen on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and all major podcast platforms!

In this episode, we chat with Justin McGrath, the lead of Truro-based Shadow Folk, a band celebrated for their psychedelic soundscapes and unforgettable live...