BIO-graphy
The Durham County Poets are a lively, soulful group born out of the vibrant music scene of Ormstown, Quebec-Canada, a town that was once called County Durham. They stand out for their compositions and performances combining an original blend of blues, gospel, and folk. With four acclaimed albums under their belt, including their latest effort, HAND ME DOWN BLUES (September 2019), produced by Bill Garret. They have made it to several Best-of-year lists and charted nationally on satellite and community blues radio stations. HAND ME DOWN BLUES has also garnered the band their first Juno nomination for 'Blues Album of the Year' a Maple Blues nomination for Best New Artist or Band, 2019, and top 5 roots song of the year for 'Help Me to Change', a song featuring a duet with Juno award winner, Dawn Tyler Watson.
DCP (as they are affectionately known) is made up of five seasoned musicians/ songwriters working individually and collaboratively. Their obvious joie de vivre is reflected in the good times audiences have consistently felt since their 2011 début. Intrepid frontman Kevin Harvey, confined to a wheelchair since 1981, is the lead vocalist and with the help and support of his bandmates Neil Elsmore (guitars), David Whyte (lead guitar, saxophone), Carl Rufh (bass, trombone), and Rob Couture (drums, percussion) has managed to lead the group on countless tours throughout Canada and the US.
As of late, the band has now incorporated a horn section featuring Marc Leclerc and Patrice Luneau of the renowned Quebec, blues band 'The Fuel Junkie's' for some of their live shows. Aiding to further bolster their sound, energy, and vision of being one of Canada's best recording and live music acts.