Bottenville, the family band made up of Derek and his siblings, now has one event to prepare for each summer. There used to be two.
After a decade of big fun and family time, Sharonstock has wound down. It was the event that brought cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends from all over to Sharon, ON every June. It featured at least three bands, sometimes more. Individuals also sometimes performed. There was plenty of food and lots of time to visit. However, time marches on and several things have changed that make it even more difficult to stage.
The August get-together in Melbourne, ON is now their only big gig! They rehearse almost every week and perform everything from B52s to Melissa Etheridge to the Rolling Stones and more. It’s so much fun.
You Can’t Beat the Heat
After a single day’s reprieve, Saturday was again hot, humid, and oppressively, stupidly uncomfortable for being outdoors. I made the mistake of sprinting about 20 feet between tents, just to get a laugh. That sent me inside in the A/C for half an hour until the urge to collapse passed. It was 35C (94F) in the shade! But the band played on.
Patricia thought of an innovative way to stay cool! It was right beside her keeping her beverages frosty.
When I said that Dutch the puppy was the only one covered in fur, someone asked, “Can you be sure about that?!” Good point. Everyone kept their shirts on, after all.
Bottenville has come such a long way since it started. They used to play a few songs between bands that have played together for years. Now they’re a main attraction. And on Saturday, they played three sets despite the sweaty conditions. Then we all assembled to tear down a half dozen spectator tents and all the gear and the huge stage.
Only the Osmonds and the Jackson Five can related to what it’s like to perform with your siblings. Sure, Bottenville doesn’t have thousands of screaming fans but that’s not why they’re together. They’re having fun and spending time with each other.
If you live in London, you might see brother Colin’s other band, KJ and the Motones. They’re getting booked all over the place with their blend of Motown and soul. Brother Rob sometimes drums with bands in north Toronto. If I ever get good enough on the drums, I’ll sit in for a song or two. Otherwise, I’m happy just to be a fan. A fan who needs her own fan, several litres of water, and total shade. And, for goodness sake, to remember not to sprint.