We Got Closer to Fine on Night Two of CityFolk

Night two of CityFolk carried on the festival’s tradition of mixing nostalgia, discovery, and a healthy dose of east coast charm.

Ottawa native Alex Nicol, now Nashville-based, opened things up on the intimate Fasken stage. It’s always exciting to see a local making a go of it on a bigger stage, but unfortunately his set was overshadowed by heavier hitters last night. Still, there’s something admirable about taking the leap and chasing music full time—one hopes his Nashville experience shapes future performances.

From there, the festival energy shifted in a big way with Junkhouse on the main stage. The Hamilton band that made waves in the late ’80s proved they’ve still got it. Tom Wilson is a force—charismatic, warm, and as quick with a joke as he is with a gravelly growl. At one point he teased the Ottawa crowd about his upcoming Governor General’s award ceremony, quipping, “If they want to give me an award, they can give you one too!” With nostalgic tunes, shoutouts to Zaphods, and the kind of tight, polished performance that only seasoned pros can deliver, Junkhouse was absolutely one of the night’s standouts.

Back under the tent came a different vibe entirely, courtesy of Irish trio Amble. Fresh from opening for Hozier in Toronto, they brought a softer, more subtle brand of folk than the stadium-filling stomp of Mumford & Sons or The Lumineers, but no less captivating. Their harmonies, storytelling, and unassuming stage presence felt like the calm before the storm. Mark my words—this is a band on the verge of breaking out, and catching them in such an intimate setting was a gift.

The Indigo Girls took the main stage next, reminding everyone why they remain such influential trailblazers. Their presence alone carries weight, particularly as role models for generations of queer artists. “You have NO idea how happy we are to be in this country!” they beamed, a sentiment underscored by a pointed backdrop reading, “What to do if ICE comes. You have rights!” While their voices may not carry quite the same power they once did, their loyal fans sang along to every song. The crowd roared when Melissa Etheridge joined them on stage for a surprise appearance—an early glimpse of the headliner, even if our camera wasn’t permitted for her set later in the night.

Closing out our night of coverage were Newfoundland’s Rum Ragged on the Fasken stage. Armed with fiddle, bodhrán, button accordion, and guitars proudly sporting Newfoundland flag straps, they transformed the tent into a full-blown kitchen party. As an east coaster myself, I couldn’t help but feel right at home—close your eyes and it could have been in a pub on George Street in St. John’s. The crowd, packed with Maritimers and honorary Maritimers alike, ate up every note.

Night three promises its own kind of drama as Morrissey takes the stage, with his headline-making request for a meat-free evening across the festival grounds. Love him or hate him, it’s bound to get people talking – if he actually shows up of course. He has a history of bailing on gigs.