Winnipeg's Greg MacPherson returns to Halifax tonight

“I’m a typical Islander on the mainland,” says Cape Breton original Greg MacPherson, based in Winnipeg, “No matter how long I’m away, I always feel a pull to be back here.” Tonight at The Company House, MacPherson returns to Halifax with his drummer Rob Gardiner and local songstress Gianna Lauren. Currently finishing up a new album, MacPherson is one not to miss.

“I wanted this new album to bring something relevant to the conversation. Like showing up a potluck with something fresh and real that takes a few chances, instead of following a recipe or sleep-walking in with a store-bought fruit tray,” he says, “The album is serious, angry and funny, and there are songs you can dance to. These Nova Scotia shows will definitely be special for us.”

Born in Sydney, MacPherson’s been rocking and rolling in Winnipeg for a few years now, playing shows, recording albums and co-running his indie label, Disintegration Records. The city is now a source of inspiration for him: “Winnipeg’s as mixed-up and ugly and as beautiful as any other city in North America. It has its share of unique qualities and things to be proud of,” MacPherson explains, “It also has its share of regressive and boring institutions, mostly just people trying their best to do something good, I suppose. At my day job over the past four and a half years working for a non-profit, the things I see are both inspiring and frustrating. It’s the best job I’ve ever had. No doubt that experience is influencing my song-writing at every level.”

The same can likely be said for 2010’s Mr. Invitation and 2013’s Fireball, albums which were both long-list nominees for the Polaris Prize: “I was honoured to be considered in that way. Both times it’s happened, I just really appreciated the acknowledgement that my work is respected and valued in my home country.” Damn right. MacPherson’s albums are just as arresting as his live performances. Sometimes political, he takes the opportunity to share his views on the world.

“I think we’re in a lot of trouble if change doesn’t come,” MacPherson says about the upcoming federal election, “I also worry that Canadians have been swept up in the election as entertainment, spending time watching the debates, arguing about polls and obsessing over the races in our constituencies like it’s a sporting event. In my perfect world, citizens research the background, ideology and platforms of the candidates and choose one who aligns most to their own values. Our democracy isn’t working that way presently.” It’s worth saying, MacPherson wants you to vote. And if you’re somehow not inspired to vote by tonight’s show, then dammit, you’ll never be.