Markham Jazz Festival - Featured Artists - Rob Christian and Darcy Bullen

The Markham Jazz festival was tastefully set in historic Unionville, this past weekend. With the road closed and several stages across the town, it was a beautiful summer to have a musical outing. There were the big bands on the main stage, the smaller bands in the pubs and restaurants, but the surprise act of the evening for me were the two young musicians from Markham, on the grass in front of Jake's pub.

Rob Christian, www.robchristianjazz.ca and his music partner Darcy Bullen, each played keyboards and/or saxaphone and/or guitar and sang. With Darcy having his guitar strapped behind his back he grouved out some great jazz/blues from his keys while Rob blew sax. When the other switched instruments, the other would back up on his keyboard. Next to them was their lovely bass guitarist, who at the ripe old age of 17 had a great stage presence and charm. On drums was a cuban musician to round out the sound. With mom nearby, making sure the equipment didn't get rained on, it was a beautiful family and friend experience to see these two young friends making a place for themselves.

These two young men, from Markham, were in my eyes what was the festival was all about. Great to see Canadian, home grown talent showing their skills with the best of them. Look for them on the charts soon.

Jazzing On,


The Adventure Guy