Local bands stepped up to the mic to raise funds for humanitarian aid in East Africa at Oxfam Carleton’s Jammin’ Against Famine Sept. 14.
Kalle Mattson, Right by Midnight, Winchester Warm and The Beer Barons graced Babylon’s stage for a concert with all proceeds going directly to the Humanitarian Coalition, which is made up of several major Canadian non-governmental organizations.
One artist doing his part is Carleton student Kalle Wainio of the band Kalle Mattson.
Wainio, a fourth-year music student, said he and his band are always willing to help out, especially in situations like the East African famine.
Jammin’ Against Famine is the largest event Oxfam Carleton has hosted in its three-year history, Oxfam Carleton president Madison Hass said.
The band is always open to doing charity gigs like Jammin’ Against Famine just as musicians will always be willing to step up and help out because of their mutual connection to the world, Wainio said.
“World events affect music and music affects world events,” he said.
Though the band originated from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., they moved to Ottawa three years ago and have since been garnering critical acclaim for their multi-layered music and poetic lyrics. Wainio said he wants his music to be enjoyed and to help people have fun. Along with having fun, he spoke of his willingness to help out because even a little bit can go a long way.
“The spark is to create something that affects people,” Wainio said.
The money raised from the benefit concert will then be matched by the Canadian government in their effort to provide relief for the famine currently devastating many underdeveloped countries in East Africa. All of this is part of a growing effort by Oxfam Carleton to provide both awareness and aid to humanitarian crises worldwide, and to get the Ottawa community involved in helping others in a time of need.
All four local bands played for no money, solely to help the cause, Russell said.
“We just play what we write. We are who we are,” said Right by Midnight vocalist and guitarist Kris Ward.
Ward and fellow guitarist/vocalist Chris Downey played an all-acoustic set.
The band’s laid-back attitude is reflected in their music, with lyrics telling stories and situations that one can relate to. Formed in 2009, Kalle Mattson is already starting to gain notice from music fans in Ottawa with a down-to-earth attitude that fits in well with the city.
Playing straightforward indie rock with a tinge of folk influence, Right by Midnight has a distinctly Canadian sound that still strikes close to home.
“[We] just like to tell stories,” Ward said.
The band said they just love helping out and want to do what they can.
In this case, helping out means taking the stage and doing what they love at Jammin’ Against Famine.
