Five of Diamonds to perform
Adelle Ellis
Times Reporter
The Strathmore Musical Arts Society has found another great band for the residents of Strathmore and surrounding communities to listen to, dance with and enjoy.
On Feb.11 they will present Five of Diamonds, a cover band from Hanna whose song library consists primarily of country and classic rock music.
“We heard them at Hand Hills rodeo last year and they are so great,” said Charlotte Wilson, a member of the Strathmore Musical Arts Society.
Tickets are $50 per person and will include the show at 8 p.m., preceded by a chicken cordon bleu dinner at 7 p.m. with tiramisu for dessert. A cocktail hour at 6 p.m. will kick off the evening.
“The show will take place just before Valentine’s Day so this is a great date night to celebrate it,” said Wilson.
Five of Diamonds plays covers of a variety of artists and has a country rock sound.
“They’re a really fun group. They have lots of energy, they are amazing,” said Linda Storkson, president of the Strathmore Musical Arts Society. “They do amazing covers, top of the line stuff.”
According to Five of Diamonds bass player and backup vocalist Derrick Campbell, the band has learned dozens of songs over the past few years covering many different genres.
“We play rock, country and pop; new and old in all genres,” he said.
The band plays a wide variety of events and functions each year. They tailor each show to the style and genre request of the customer.
“Versatility is the key to our success,” said Campbell, who added that they will be playing a wide range of music to make sure there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Five of Diamonds have been playing together for four years. They got their start organizing a last-minute Christmas dance where they learned enough songs within a month’s time to make the dance a success. Since then, they’ve continued practicing, learning new songs and taking bookings.
The band has had the same five band members for all the years they have been playing. Besides Campbell, there is Garrett Buchfink, front-man and vocalist; Lane Westlake playing lead guitar and lap steel; Mitchell Maetche who plays keyboard, piano, rhythm guitar and sings backup vocals; and Chris Warwick on drums and singing backup vocals.
“We love dancers, so that is our goal for each show, said Campbell. “Playing for a full dance floor is far more exciting, and the high energy is contagious. The more fun the audience has, the more fun we have as well.”
Tickets for the show are available online at strathmorearts.com, or at Assist Business Centre, Marlin Travel, Pro Water Systems, Chinook Financial and Hob’s Hobbies.