Achi news desk-
A legendary Canadian band from the Maritimes is returning to the region, and is set to perform on Saturday in the province where it all began, all to fulfill the wish of one of the group’s founders.
April Wine is an integral part of Canadian classic rock music, and is very special to the Maritimes, forming in Nova Scotia almost five and a half decades ago.
Brian Greenway joined the band in 1977, making him the longest serving member. He says people are about to be part of something special at their show on Saturday.
“I remember seeing them for the first time, and it left an impression because they were the only band playing original material that was really good, and that was Jimmy and David and Richie and Miles,” Greenway told Katie Kelly of CTV in an interview Friday.
Myles Goodwyn, one of the band’s founders, retired from touring with April Wine last year, but made it clear that he wanted the group to continue on. Goodwyn also confirmed that Montreal musician Marc Parent is the new singer for the band.
“I grew up in Ottawa. I was in a band in the 80s called Eight Seconds,” said Parent.
But was Riant always a fan of April Wine?
“Duh,” said Parent with a smile.
He officially became part of the band last spring, and he says he loves it.
“It’s been amazing. It’s been amazing. Completely. I mean, it’s a dream come true,” said Parent.
“We started rehearsing and he had the ability to copy everything perfectly, the guitar work and the vocals, flawlessly, just like Myles had. I couldn’t have done it,” Greenway said.
Both members say it is a blessing to know they are fulfilling Goodwyn’s wish.
“That has been approved and that is what he wanted and we are achieving it,” said Parent.
“It gives me a sense of responsibility to bring my A-game at every gig and out of respect for what he has done. I see how the music touches everybody, so it makes me realize, ‘Okay, you better do the best you can out of respect, you know, for the legacy of this band .’”
Marc Parent and Brian Greenway admire the Myles Goodwyn display at Casino Nova Scotia. (CTV/Katie Kelly)That seems to be a sentiment that fans are giving right back.
“There’s a little bit of fear up front, but after the third song, boy, they’re there,” Greenway said.
“The response is very strong. At this stage of the game, I couldn’t ask for more.”
Although the group formed in Nova Scotia, Saturday night will be the first time this April Wine group will perform in the city.
“We’re going to rock, we’re going to rock like we do everywhere we play. We want people to get up and dance and have a good time. We want people to make memories and enjoy the songs and enjoy the music,” said Parent.
April Wine will be performing at the Bruce Guthro Threatre inside Casino Nova Scotia on Saturday night.
With files from Katie Kelly on CTV.
