A few days ago a Facebook friend of mine wrote the following: “Early June in Montreal. Is it not the most promising of times?” Indeed it is. Regardless of what you think or how you feel about what’s going on in the streets, or the clanging that’s emanating from your neighbour’s balcony – or from your own, if that’s your dish – the month of June always seems to awaken within us the idea that something great will happen this summer in the city of Festivals. And two of the best for local independent artists are happening this month.

[Editor’s note: we are not performing at either of these festivals, but will be attending certain shows, and hope to see you out and about as well]

Montreal FRINGE Festival – Now to June 24

While the Fringe Festival is about more than just music, they still always manage to exhibit the best home grown talent with the most to offer. The focal point of the festival is Fringe Park at Parc des Amériques, located at the corner of Saint-Laurent and Rachel in the Plateau. Starting June 14th there will be live music every night starting as early as 6 pm.

Visit MontrealFringe.ca

If you’re interested in some recommendations we’ll give you some, but keep in mind that we’re biased. Some bands worth seeing are Ol’ Savannah [June 16 @ 9:00 pm], The Custom Outfit [June 17 @ 8:00 pm], Sarah Jane Scouten [June 21 @ 6:00 pm], and Johnny Griffin [June 22 @ 6:00 pm]. Also, if you show up on June 15 you can be a part of a live podcast of CJLO’s “Edge Of The City“, voted 4th best local radio program in this year’s Montreal Mirror “Best of Montreal” reader’s poll.

For tickets and info on any and all Fringe shows, visit MontrealFringe.ca

Montreal Folk Festival on the Canal – June 14 to 17

If you prefer something just a little closer to nature, then check out the Folk Festival on the Canal. We were lucky enough to be a part of last year’s edition and happened to catch some magical performances by the likes of the Wildwood Flowers, Mark Berube and Sheesham & Lotus.

Visit MontrealFolkFest.com

This year’s is already looking like it’ll be better with performances by Friend of All the World, Joey Wright, Rob Lutes, and some big name acts such as Kevin Parent and the legendary Peter Yarrow, or Peter, Paul & Mary. Almost as unreal is the fact that our very good friend Sarah Jane Scouten is slated to open that show … We’re proud of you, Sarah Jane!

The bulk of the festival takes place outdoors on the Terrasse St-Ambroise, located at 5080 St-Ambroise in Saint-Henri, right on the Lachine Canal.

For tickets and info, visit MontrealFolkFest.com

Have a great week everybody!