Manitoba Live Music Event

About

The Dust Rhinos are big men with a monster sound. A sound rooted in an ancient time and a faraway place. Using traditional airs, reels, and jigs the Rhinos conjure up the Ireland of olde with leprechauns, shamrocks, tweed caps, and “sure and begorrah.” And then, like a shillelagh wrapped in a potato sack, they knock the bejeebers out of that green and lovely image and unleash a freight train loaded with banshees and the furious ghost of Cuchulainn.

From basement pubs to festival stages the Dust Rhinos have been bringing their particular brand of punk flavoured Irish trad to venues large, small, and otherwise since 1992.  Blossoming from a trio of buskers to a 4-piece Celtic rock juggernaut, the Rhinos have tread the boards with acts as varied as The Dropkick Murphys, Gaelic Storm, Alabama, Leahy, the Barra MacNeils, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band.  Whether a house concert, pub night, or festival (Dauphin Countryfest, Festival du Voyageur, Winnipeg Folk Festival, the Grey Cup Festival and counting!) the Rhinos’ controlled chaos will get people out of their seats, on the dance floor, and clamouring for One!  More!  Song!

With influences that include the Pogues, the Oysterband, Spirit of the West, the Clash, and Peter Gabriel, it’s no wonder the Rhinos have a powerful, yet multi-faceted and layered sound and playing style.  An aggressive, but subtle sonic assault.  Ever seen a ceilidh break out in a mosh pit, or vice versa?  Expect it at a Rhinos show.  As their loyal and ever-growing fan base can attest, when the Dust Rhinos are on stage, the only thing that won’t take you by surprise is how much fun you’re having.

The Reverend Rambler
The Reverend Rambler might not be an ordained man of God, but his passionate rhythm and blues inspired tunes will have you feeling the spirit something fierce. The music itself draws from the entire gamut of Americana music ranging from the gospel blues of Blind Willie Johnson to the hillbilly fingerstyle of Merle Travis, all injected with the high octane energy of punk rock. 

Come join us for a high energy 25th anniversary celebration at the West End Cultural Centre.