Don't miss these 5 Alberta artists at the Calgary Folk Music Festival

Between Blue Rodeo and the Barenaked Ladies there are some big acts to see at this year's Calgary Folk Fest.

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But here are five lesser-known acts with local ties you should take the time to see and hear while frolicking at Prince's Island Park.

Nehiyawak

Sunday 10:30 a.m.Stage 6

Start your Sunday morning with Nehiyawak(pronouncedneh-HEE-o-wuk,) the project of three Indigenous musicians from the Cree nation.

Electronic beats fuse with hand drums, traditional songs and modernstreet-wisepopfor a sound that will set your spirit pulsing faster than a double espresso.

AM Static

Saturday3:15 p.m.Stage 2

Find out why this Calgary duo earned a Juno nomination in 2016, as AM Static's futuristic R&B and gentle pop tunes carry you into a blissful state of calm on Saturday afternoon.

Mohsin Zaman

Sunday10:30 a.m.Stage 1, plus workshop stages

Finally, Calgary gets its chance for a hug from one of Edmonton's warmest musicians. In a short time, Mohsin Zaman (raised in Dubai of Pakistani heritage) has earned a place at the heart of the city's music community, and the 2016 Edmonton Music Award for male artist of the year.

Zaman's voice soars over a reverb-drenched guitar that echoes his Arabic roots, yet speaks directly to his adopted Canadian home.

Sargeant & Comrade

Sunday July 30, 10:30 a.m.Stage 2, plus workshop stages

One of the best things about the Calgary Folk Music Festival is the chance to experience new artists. With Sargeant & Comrade, reggae meets flamenco meets swingtime jazz and hip hop.

No doubt this local duo will meet some ardent new fans of their eclectic, soulful sound.

100 mile house

Saturday10:30 a.m.Stage 6, plus workshop stages

There's discovery, and then there's rediscoverywhen a favourite songwriter and band come back with a fresh new set of songs.

Expect polish, heart, and goosebumps from this veteran Edmonton outfit especially when you hear their songs in response to Alberta's recent floods and fires.

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