JazzFest Fundraiser 2026

Frogsback

Thursday, June 11

Frogsback is a seasoned, high-energy cover band built on deep musical roots and a broad and savvy repertoire that spans decades of rock, blues, soul, and jazz. Drawing from an extensive catalog that runs from classic artists like The Doobie Brothers, Steely Dan, and Elton John to modern acts like The Black Keys, OneRepublic, Foo Fighters and The Goo Goo Dolls, the band delivers a setlist designed to resonate across generations.

What sets Frogsback apart is their ability to move fluidly between styles without losing cohesion. One moment they’re digging into gritty blues standards like Cold Shot, and the next they’re channeling the anthemic energy of Times Like These, Learn to Fly or Lido Shuffle. Their repertoire also leans heavily into soulful storytelling, with selections like Tennessee Whiskey, and God Bless the Child, showcasing both musical versatility and emotional range.

Their shows present a full electric performance that balances musicianship with audience connection. Their song choices—ranging from crowd-pleasers like Iris and China Grove to unexpected gems like Toto’s Africa or Hold the Line—reflect a band that understands not just how to play music, but how to read a room.

With a foundation rooted in classic influences and a setlist that keeps evolving, Frogsback delivers a live experience that feels both familiar and fresh—tight, soulful, and built to keep audiences engaged from the first note to the last.

 

JazzFest Fundraiser 2026

Soul Deep

Thursday, June 11

A Feelin’ Groovy Recipe
Take nine dynamic, talented musicians, add the greatest hits of Motown and funky soul, a spoonful of R&B, a pinch of Top 40 rock and a dash of disco. Mix in outstanding vocals and a seasoned horn section. Combine inspired arrangements with powerhouse groove

–VOILA! SOUL DEEP!

 

TERRAPLANE 

Thursday, June 18th

Terraplane is a Regina-based, improvisational quintet that blends traditional blues and jazz in their exciting live performances. Featuring father and son Shane and Ethan Reoch on guitar and keys, Colin Lynn on drums, Troy Bleich on stand-up bass and Chêney Lambert on trumpet, Terraplane plays together in the pocket, anchored by tradition but always open to the moment. Fresh off a triumphant return to Darke Hall for the Mid-winter blues festival, this group of friends is excited to be a part of this year’s Regina Jazz Festival, a tradition that has meant a lot to Terraplane members over the years. Come join this exciting group as they search for the perfect musical trance.

 

THE PILE OF BONES BRASS BAND 

Saturday, June 20th

The Pile of Bones Brass Band are a Regina based, New Orleans influenced
brass band. They have been a fixture of the Regina and Saskatchewan music
scene for over 15 years. Their music is a mix of funk, r&b, jazz, and pop with a
street-beat style that echoes the spirit of New Orleans during Mardi Gras!
In the past they have appeared at the Sasktel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival,
Regina Jazz Festival, and Gateway Festival among other festivals and venues
across the province.
The Pile of Bones Brass Band are lead by two dynamic vocalists backed by
a powerful horn section and anchored by the deep bass of a sousaphone. The
groove is driven by a traditional New Orleans two-drummer setup with marching
snare and bass drum along with percussion to create that unmistakable New
Orleans second-line sound.
Whether leading a festival parade through the streets or lighting up the stage,
The Pile of Bones Brass Band create an infectious atmosphere of dance and
celebration that reflects their love of music. Their sound echoes the soul and
spirit of the Crescent City while honouring their roots in Sask’s own Queen City.
Personnel:
Khanida Taylor + Richie Pollack – Vocals
Joel Lareau – Trombone
Cam Church – Baritone Sax
Cheney Lambert – Trumpet
Tony Merkel – Sousaphone
Ty Hammer – Snare Drum/Perc
Bryce Wiles – Bass Drum/Perc

 

SUNDAY MORNING JAZZ BRUNCH WITH

THE FRANCOIS BOURASSA QUARTET 

Sunday, June 21st 

François Bourassa’s award-winning eponymous quartet has been a staple of Montreal’s
jazz landscape for more than 25 years, an example of consistency and evolution inspired by such as
Ornette Coleman, Fred Hersch, George Russell and Carla Bley among others. In Nov 2024 they toured
their latest oeuvre Swirl, which was well received in Europe; we are giving Canadians a chance to hear
this work for the first time with some newer pieces as well.
(They) take listeners on a sonic journey of exploration that needs to
be experienced. Melodies and motifs blossom and loop as the four musicians share in
thoughtful instrumental conversation David Reed, Whig Standard, Kingston, ON
The great thing about François Bourassa is that his music is his and his alone (tr)
Live review, Ludovic Florin, Jazz Magazine Paris
Live album Swirl (Studio Piccolo in Montréal), rel 2023 Effendi Records.
Francois Bourassa (p), André Leroux (sax – and 2025 JUNO Award winner!) Guy
Boisvert (b), and Guillaume Pilote (dr)

 

JASON MARSALIS QUARTET –

LIONEL HAMPTON TRIBUTE

Sunday, June 21st 

Jason Marsalis (born March 4, 1977) is an acclaimed American jazz drummer, vibraphonist,
composer, and bandleader from New Orleans. As the youngest son of pianist Ellis Marsalis and
brother to Branford, Wynton, and Delfeayo, he is a key member of the renowned Marsalis
family. Known for his versatility, he has led his own groups and played with artists like Marcus
Roberts and Joe Henderson. Jason is characterized by his technical proficiency, humor, and
ability to blend traditional jazz with modern influences, including Latin and Brazilian music. He is
considered a major force in the New Orleans music scene and continues to perform and record,
often leading his own ensembles.