Scott Roos
Special to the Herald
Josh Stumpf’s recent “on-stage” performance at the E.A. Rawlinson Centre for the Arts in Prince Albert on March 28 left an indelible impression, showcasing both his undeniable talent and his ability to captivate an audience.
Born and raised in Prince Albert and known for his blend of 80s-style two-step, outlaw country, and country rock, Stumpf delivered an electrifying set of country rockers with a touch of classic rock flair. For nearly 90 minutes, Stumpf commanded the stage with his smoldering voice and movie star good looks, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the Saskatchewan country music scene.
The evening kicked off with Stumpf’s breakout hit, “That Song in This Truck,” a catchy anthem that perfectly encapsulates his signature sound—a mix of foot-stomping rhythms and heartfelt storytelling. The track set the tone for the rest of the show, establishing an energetic vibe that would carry through the night.
Following closely behind was “Highway Money,” a soon-to-be-released single that promises to become another fan favorite. With its rhythmic pulse and undeniable hooks, it showcased Stumpf’s knack for creating songs that resonate with listeners while tapping into universal themes like the open road and the pursuit of freedom.
One of the highlights of the evening was Stumpf’s performance of his trademark ballad, “Drink Me a Lullaby.” The song, which has already made waves on streaming platforms, reached over 55,000 streams and hit number 1 on the Canadian Indie Country Countdown, resonated deeply with the audience.
Stumpf’s emotive delivery of the track, which captures the raw emotion and vulnerability of a troubled heart, brought the crowd into a moment of stillness, underscoring his versatility as both a singer and a songwriter.
Throughout the set, Stumpf’s backing band, led by longtime collaborator Andon Schumack on lead guitar, proved to be a vital part of the performance. Ezra Seed on drums and Matthew Nadon on bass provided a steady rhythm section, allowing Stumpf to explore the full range of his vocal abilities.
The band’s chemistry was evident, and their solid backing was an essential part of Stumpf’s ability to hold the audience’s attention throughout the evening. Stumpf’s performance was polished as he sang whilst playing rhythm guitar.
As the night neared its conclusion, Stumpf closed with covers of the Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” and Creed’s “Higher.” The choice of these rock anthems showcased Stumpf’s broad musical influences and his ability to seamlessly blend genres, keeping the audience engaged and on their toes. The inclusion of these songs highlighted his versatility and his willingness to take risks, further solidifying his status as an artist on the rise.
Stumpf’s star power was undeniable, and as the 2024 co-winner of the SCMA Emerging Artist Award and recipient of the NSMZ 2024 “Rising Star” award, it’s clear that he is making his mark on the Saskatchewan country music scene. With a bit more refinement in both his musical and stage presence, there’s little doubt that Josh Stumpf has the potential to become a major force in the Canadian industry as his live show delivery gets better each time he takes the stage. If this performance is any indication, the future looks incredibly bright for this talented artist.
