Steve Pineo brings big band sound to Strathmore

By Melissa Piche Times Contributor

Music lovers in Strathmore are in for a treat as acclaimed singer-songwriter Steve Pineo brings his dynamic eight-piece band to town on March 15 at the Strathmore United Church as part of the Arts on 817 concert series.

Fans can expect an electrifying performance featuring original songs, a horn section, and a mix of rock, blues, jazz, and pop influences. 

Pineo, known for his versatility and engaging live shows, is excited to bring a fresh setlist including songs that have been waiting years for the right band to bring them to life.

“I put this show together as a project to get these songs heard,” said Pineo.

He explains that he never really had a band that could cover all the bases before to play these songs, so he was excited to put one (band) together to fit what he was looking for. 

This concert marks a rare opportunity to hear Pineo’s full-band arrangements, something he says is usually only possible for special occasions.

Often times when an artist is performing live, they can’t recreate exactly what is heard in a recording. So, they scale back or try to make it a solo venture. This time Pineo said it’s a lot of fun when he gets that rare opportunity to recreate his recording live with a large-scale band. 

“Once a year or for special occasions you can put together a show with all the trimmings,” he said.

Though he hasn’t played in Strathmore for about a decade, Pineo is no stranger to smaller communities. He enjoys the challenge of introducing his music to new audiences.

“It’s always fun to get out and play for a fresh audience,” he said. “It’s nice to have a challenge and go someplace where not everybody knows you.”

Many know Pineo as the songwriter behind Canadian Man, a song famously recorded by country artist Paul Brandt. The song gained widespread recognition especially after being re-released during the 2002 Winter Olympics when Canada’s hockey teams won gold. Over the years it has been performed by choirs and barbershop groups across North America.

As for what fans can expect on March 15, Pineo hinted at a diverse setlist including songs like Mississippi Saxophone and Politics, Economics and Religion. He’s excited to finally perform some of these songs with the full treatment they deserve.

“I enjoy taking a concept and bringing it to fruition,” he said. 

Wheather it’s a song or a show, Pineo said he enjoys the whole process, going from an idea to the performance.

Strathmore will be one of several stops for Pineo’s mini tour with other performances planned in Sundre, Calgary and Edmonton.

Tickets for the concert are available at The Vault or online (smoreuc.com).