The Come By The Hills Music Festival (CBTH) took place on August 17 and 18 at the beautiful Mistahiya setting. Friday evening began with the opening ceremonies and a tribute to Bill Dobson who passed away in April 2018. According to the CBTH website Dobson was an executive member (Vice President) of the Battle River Music Society – organizers of The Come By The Hills Music Festival - for its first four years. He was instrumental in so many components of the event – reaching out to prospective partners, stage and grounds design, performer contacts, beverage gardens, security and first aid, and generally – along with Jim Zadorozny – the ambassador or ‘face’ of the festival within the community. Dobson’s strength was with people; he thrived at being a ‘behind the scenes’ influencer within the region, with the ability to turn a ‘no or probably not’ into a “yes!” The music started out with Dan and Laurel, a Roots Folk duo with great songs, musicianship and stage presence, including interaction with the audience. The next musician was Steve Strongman, songwriter, and vocalist in blues and roots music. The last performer on Friday was Brad Saunders, originally from Glovertown, Newfoundland, he is now an Alberta-based Country music star and has made a name for himself in the music industry. Sanders has worked in Nashville and has been busy writing songs with others in the music business. He has opened for big names such as Aaron Pritchett, Brett Kissel, and Thomas Rhett and performed at various Country Festivals such as Country Thunger, Big Valley Jamoree and even the Calgary Stampede. The evening continued with a Bonfire jam session. Saturday morning kicked off with a special Yoga Wake-UP with Jes Merten and for all the young attendees Mary Lambert entertained with a Children’s Show and songs. Her energy and music are infectious to all those in attendance. Lambert also tours many elementary schools, libraries, daycares and music festivals throughout Canada. Other musicians performed throughout the day and filled the hills of Mistahiya with music including, The Dearhearts, Black Velvet Show Band, Tom Phillips, 100 Mile House, Daniel Gervais, Abigail Lapell and Rooster Davis & The All-Star Band. The evening continued with Alee who is a 2017 CCMA Nominee and a 2017 ACMA winner. Her country music kept the crowd entertained with her twangy country style. Darby Mills of the Headpins closed the music festival with her energetic music filling the hills.
