The May long weekend offered a variety of live music acts in Kamloops. On Saturday night I caught a couple of sets by #Poundsign at the Blue Grotto. They bill themselves as “The world’s most okayist cover band.” Of course they are much better than that. They had the Grotto hopping all night.

They play a mix of old and new tunes. Songs such as “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” “Under Pressure,” “Goodbye Earl,” a Zeppelin Mash and “Call Me Al” morphing into “Go Your Own Way” illustrates that this talented power trio can perform a variety of rock songs from different eras and sub-genres.

They are another good band from the Okanagan that have been playing in town recently. It was a fun evening.

On Sunday The Effie hosted a rare afternoon performance featuring a pair of amazing guitarists. The show opened with guitarist Forrest Bailey playing mainly original compositions. He provided background as to the meaning behind his songs. I did appreciate that. He was well received by the sold-out crowd at The Effie. Next came the headliner Alexandr Misko. Misko is based in Germany and has toured all over the world. While he, mostly, played, what his website refers to as and “experimental guitar,” he also had an electronic instrument for percussion that made some amazing sounds.

Misko basically provided a master class in guitars and guitar accessories. To his credit he kept the explanations simple and demonstrated all the items that he talked about. On top of this, he is a phenomenal player. He can do more with one hand than many musicians can do with two.

Most of his songs were original compositions, but he ended the show with a wonderful version of “Careless Whisper.” (The Never Gonna Dance Again song) of George Michael fame. It was nice to attend two enjoyable shows on a rainy Victoria Day long weekend