Pat Chessell Band/Flickr

With so much musical talent across the world sometimes it’s easy to forget about what’s right in your backyard, and Vancouver’s Pat Chessel is no exception.

The Surrey-based “Celtic Canadian” performer is up for Traditional Singer of the Year honours, along with the very talented Sophie Lavoie, Nicolas Boilerice, Ewelina Ferenc and Ray Schmidt.

Chessell, a frequent performer at venues across Surrey, is among six B.C. based artists nominated for the 2021 CFMAs which are to be held in April. Now I know what you’re thinking, who listens to Folk music these days? All I can say is listen to what your parents told you and don’t judge a book by its cover.

While his early originals fall solidly under the large spectrum of “Celtic”, Pats range is colossal and all-embracing. Equally skilled at delivering a powerhouse rock tune as a soft touching ballad, you never know what the multi-talented artist will create next. His lyrics vary from thought-provoking to dance-inducing and high-spirited, but most importantly, Chessell is relatable.

The singer-songwriter has quite an impressive resume as well but don’t just take my word for it. While headlining his own shows, he has also opened for Jim Byrnes, The Town Pants, Derek Warfield, and was featured in the Irish Pavilion at the 2010 Winter Olympics. He’s released 5 albums over the last decade.  I’d recommend starting with his latest I Confess (2018) and working your way up to The Road Not Taken (2020) to get an idea of his true sound.

The Road Not Taken has a modern folk-pop sound that Chessell has made his own. His new sound combines his Celtic roots with a Country twang that unravels an optimistic and upbeat indie-folk fusion. Give it a listen for yourself,  you’re not afraid to like ‘Folk’ music, are you?