The acclaimed Canadian folk trio the Wailin’ Jennys will make a foray into southern Minnesota with a concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the Chatfield Center for the Arts.
The Jennys consist of founding members Ruth Moody and Nicky Mehta, and relative newcomer Heather Masse. The band formed in 2002 when Moody and Mehta teamed up with fellow singer/songwriter Cara Luft for a one-time show at a Winnipeg guitar shop. All three had been performing as solo artists and as members of various ensembles. The show worked so well, and the demand for more shows was such, that they decided to form a trio.
The Wailin’ Jennys quickly established themselves as an international act to be reckoned with, garnering critical praise both in Canada and the U.S. Luft eventually was replaced in 2007 by New York-based singer Heather Masse.
The Jennys continue to combine original compositions with well-chosen cover tunes, an eclectic collection of songs that highlights the diverse interests of the members.
"They sing like siblings and play like seasoned veterans, resulting in a seamless, understated sound that feels both perennial and distinctly Canadian," the All Music Guide said of the trio.
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In addition to their tours and recordings as the Jennys, all three artists maintain separate solo careers. Moody, in particular, has been active as a solo artist and has been touring in support of her most recent album, "These Wilder Things." Masse’s solo recordings lean toward jazz, as heard on her album, "Lock My Heart."
The Jennys’ latest album is "Fifteen," which was released on the 15th anniversary of that first show in Winnipeg.
What: The Wailin' Jennys
When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Where: Chatfield Center for the Arts, 405 Main St. S, Chatfield
Tickets: $47, $38; chatfieldarts.org and 507-884-7676
