Music lovers in Vermilion and surrounding areas, took in the final show of the Vermilion Allied Arts 2024/25 Series on March 22 at the Alumni Theatre in Vermilion’s Lakeland College!
This highly anticipated closing event featured Jack Semple Plays Lightfoot, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Gordon Lightfoot. Semple, known for his electrifying guitar skills and soulful vocals, not only honoured the Canadian music icon but also showcased his own signature ‘Modern Blues’ style. With a sound that blends the energy of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the soul of James Brown, and the artistry of Robben Ford, Semple left the audience spellbound.
A Saskatchewan native, Semple grew up on a farm north of Regina and launched his musical journey with various local bands before moving to Toronto in the late 1980s. There, he became the lead guitarist for The Lincolns, a high-energy funk and rhythm & blues band. After two years, he returned to his roots, choosing to focus on his solo career and family life.
Audience member Keri Pullyblank noted, “Saskatchewan can sure be proud of their Jack Semple. We were so fortunate to have them perform Lightfoot in Vermilion.”
Throughout his impressive career, Semple has made significant contributions to television and film, including starring in the 1994 television movie Guitarman and composing award-winning soundtrack scores. His accolades include winning MuchMusic’s ‘Guitar Wars’ contest in 1992, multiple Western Canadian Music Awards, and nominations for Gemini Awards for his work on Incredible Story Studio. He is also a Juno Award winner, solidifying his place among Canada’s musical greats.
“What an evening of amazing Gordon Lightfoot! Each of his three guitars, one of them a twelve string, was clay being moulded by the master. Then with his bonafide voice, he brought the Lightfoot vocals to life - ‘In the Early Morning Rain,’, ‘Ribbon of Darkness.’ ‘Alberta Bound,’ and so many more,” expressed Pullyblank. She noted that the two sets of great tribute to Lightfoot, and the addition of Danny Jones on Bass captivated the audience and provided an evening of pure enjoyment.