By Medicine Hat News on November 9, 2018.
Medicine Hat News Luke McMaster continues the Medicine Hat Brewing Company ON-Stage Series next week at the Esplanade. McMaster’s latest solo project, “Icons of Soul,” sees the singer-songwriter up his game when it comes to the Motown and soul sounds that have always been a part of his music. The new music is said to flow with a fun vibe that makes them feel instantly recognizable. The show will be held Nov. 15, starting at 7:30 p.m. McMaster, a Manitoban, collaborates with iconic Motown songwriters like Felix Cavaliere of the Rascals and Lamont Dozier. He’s previously worked with Rihanna and shared the stage with Canadian legend Randy Bachman and pop superstars Justin Timberlake and Christina Aguilera. This is the second of five ON-Stage Series shows on the Esplanade calendar. The public sits on the stage with the performer, creating a more intimate vibe than a regular show. Earlier this year, Trampas Brown described it this way: “We bring people in through the backstage hallways. They come through the no-access signs, and we set the bar up on the loading dock. The performer stands where they would normally stand but instead of facing the seats they’re facing the backstage area.” Tables and chairs fill the rest of the stage to create an intimate experience for everyone. Brown, the Esplanade’s superintendent of operations and programming, likened it to a club or cabaret setting. Up next is Don Amero on Dec. 6, followed by Hillsburn (Jan. 24) and Earle & Coffin (Feb. 27). Tickets, are available at tixx.ca, by calling 403-502-8777 or in person at the Esplanade box office or the Medicine Hat Mall customer service desk. A bundle pack for the four remaining ON-Stage shows is also available. 10