Andrew Collins Trio – CD Release

Show at 8pm, Doors at 7pm $35+ in advance, $42+at the door “Mando Maestro” Andrew Collins finds himself at the epicentre of Canada’s acoustic/roots music scene. He didn’t invent it, but he has certainly been a major contributor, having co-founded seriously noteworthy Canadian bands like the Creaking Tree String Quartet, the Foggy Hogtown Boys and, more recently, his namesake trio. That’s not to mention the fact that this prolific and powerful performer – comfortable on mandolin, fiddle, guitar, mandola and mandocello – composes, produces, arranges, writes and teaches across multiple genres, including an electrifying fusion of folk, acoustic roots, newgrass and even a dash of chamber music, when he’s in the mood. Collins and his various ensembles have already been recognized by five JUNO nominations and seven Canadian Folk Music Awards.  Now he’s concentrating on the work he does with his Trio-mates:  fellow string guru Adam Shier, whose versatility shines through on guitar and mandolin and James McEleney providing support on the bass, mandocello and vocals. Showcasing a dizzying number of styles and instruments on stage, Collins and his trio appear to live by the old adage: “idle hands are the devil’s workshop” (likely keeping them way ahead of his grasp). Bending and blending genres, these musical shape shifters land somewhere between the re-imagined worlds of Béla Fleck, newgrass inventer David Grisman and the legendary cellist Yo Yo Ma! The Trio recently released their aptly titled album, The Rule of Three, drawing inspiration from the artistic principle that a trio of elements is more impactful, intricately weaving together visual and literary arts’ “rule of thirds”. The album was nominated for (aptly) three Canadian Folk Music Awards! Here at Hugh’s Room they’re releasing Retro, a treasure trove of Andrew’s signature tracks over the years with fresh arrangements and spirited trio interplay. From blazing bluegrass to jazzy waltzes and classical reinterpretations, Retro shows that great music evolves through honouring its roots