Nakusp Music Fest: Saddle Mountain High July 17 & 18: 1st Annual Summer Blast CD1

This two-disc set captures the inaugural 2004 Nakusp Music Fest lineup — a mix of Canadian indie acts, rock icons, and regional talent. The volunteer-run festival was held in Nakusp, British Columbia, and ran from 2004 to 2011, set against a striking mountain-and-lake backdrop.

Supertonic – “Man in the Moon”
Vancouver trio led by bassist/vocalist Dino DiNicolo, with guitarist Terry Paton and drummer/multi-instrumentalist Christopher Percy. Their debut album Another Day (2004) introduced a groove-driven blend of rock, funk, and blues; follow-up Souls of the Wonderful appeared in 2007. DiNicolo’s résumé includes international touring and TV appearances, including Disney’s So Weird. “Man in the Moon” highlights their tight arrangements and soulful vocals.

Blackfish – “Sinking”
A hard-gigging West Kootenay rock band known for a strong festival presence, including a mainstage slot at the inaugural Nakusp Music Fest. Their earthy, guitar-driven sound made them a popular regional draw, though studio recordings remain rare.

Fear Zero – “Star Trippin’” / “Satellite”
North Vancouver’s Ed Sadler led Fear Zero’s polished modern rock sound. Releases include Fear Zero (2004), Concentrated EP (2005), In Lights (2007), Whole Damn Nation (2010), and Running Red Lights (2014). Known for national radio play and MuchMusic rotation, the band balanced strong hooks with radio-ready production.

A Perfect Day – “Pretty/Ugly” / “Win Your Heart”
Vancouver duo Janele Woodley (ex-West End Girls) and Joseph Hrechka (ex-Mudgirl) blended post-grunge guitar textures with pop hooks. Their sole album, All Over Everything (2004), featured “Pretty Ugly” and “Win Your Heart” alongside other radio-friendly tracks. Active mainly on the BC live circuit.

Dr. Fun & The Nightcrawlers – “The Letter” / “Pretzel Logic”
Long-running Kootenay party/blues outfit specializing in horn-driven takes on classic rock, R&B, and soul. Known for festival and club shows across the BC interior, they deliver crowd-pleasing covers such as the Box Tops’ “The Letter” and Steely Dan’s “Pretzel Logic.”

Paul Reddick & The Sidemen – “Elizabethville” / “Rattlebag”
Toronto harmonica player/songwriter Paul Reddick formed The Sidemen in 1990. Their album Rattlebag (2001, NorthernBlues) earned Juno, W.C. Handy, and Maple Blues Award recognition for its literate, roots-infused modern blues. These two tracks show Reddick’s poetic lyricism and gritty harp work.

The Guess Who – “No Sugar Tonight”
From Winnipeg’s most celebrated rock export, “No Sugar Tonight” appeared on their 1970 album American Woman, paired with “New Mother Nature” as a Top 10 U.S. single.

Bachman–Turner Overdrive – “Takin’ Care of Business” / “You Ain’t Seen Nothin’ Yet”
Another Winnipeg powerhouse, BTO emerged from Brave Belt in the early 1970s. These two mid-’70s anthems remain among their most enduring FM staples.
-Robert Williston