By: Sheena Lyonnais
March 09, 2009

Based on the interview below, it would seem as though Leif Vollebekk is a man of few words.  It is but a forgivable trait considering the Montreal artist’s ability to effortlessly captivate his audience with his smooth, radiant folk music.  His obvious appreciation of the art and character of music sets him apart, but I’ll let him convince you further. 

How are you doing and where are you right now?

I just got home from seeing Mike O'Brien melt my face off at Divan Orange, so I'm doing pretty well.

There are a lot of bands playing CMW, why should I watch yours?

I don't think you can answer this without putting others down.  You should come because I don't like putting others down, and if that ain't hip I don't know what is.

What are you doing to prepare for CMW?

Reading some Leonard Cohen in hardcover and fiddling with my tone.

What are you hoping to get out of the festival?

Hopefully just catch some good sets over the week. That's plenty for me.

Tell me a tour story that is crazy but true.

What's crazy is that I actually can't tell the truth.

What are you/your band working on at the moment?

Neil Young wanted to sound like a cross between Dylan and the Stones...well, we're trying to do a Hank Williams meets Sigur Ros thing.  And a new record.

Any last parting words for us music-hungry Toronto folk?

Why not go listen to Ray Charles' "Love Country Style" on vinyl and then place it along with a number of Muratti cigarette-stubs, shoved far back in the drawer of the bed-table that stands beside her bed in the Hotel Montoya, in Pamplona?

Leif Vollebekk CMW Showcase:
Thursday March 11, 2010 @ 9:00PM
El Mocambo, 464 Spadina Ave 416-777-1777
19+ Limited wristbands/passes accepted

For more information on Lief Vollebekk, check out: www.myspace.com/leifvollebekk .