While running errands on a quiet Wednesday afternoon, I received a message from Zack Ingles, whom I’ve previously featured here at Great Dark Wonder. “Hey Ollie! My bassist has fallen ill. Can you fill in this Saturday at the BIG Battle of the Bands in Woodstock?” Though not particularly close to Zack, I knew him to be extremely generous and kind. Despite having work commitments in another city, I couldn’t let him down. “Of course!” I replied. “Count me in!” I spent my free time over the next few days listening to his set and learning the songs as best as I could, unsure of what to expect.
Woodstock, located in New Brunswick’s Carleton County, is a town of just over 5,000 people. In my three decades as a musician, I’ve learned that small towns often provide great support to visiting musicians. Concerts aren’t as frequent, so even a small event is a big deal. The BIG Battle of the Bands was presented by The Scene, a local music promotions organization, and featured five bands: Fredericton’s Trash Oyster and Strychnine, Halifax-based Customer Service, local favorites The Dooryard Drifters, and Zack Ingles from the Saint John area. Held in the ballroom at the Best Western Plus, the event also served as a fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters, with countless sponsors contributing to the community spirit.
Upon arrival, a volunteer greeted us, provided artist passes, and showed us where to store our instruments and the fully stocked green room. The organizers paid great attention to detail, making every artist feel valued and at home with Rolling Stone magazines, candles, charcuterie trays, locally made baked goods, and non-alcoholic beverages. Volunteers were friendly, and available at all times.
Trash Oyster, a personal favourite, opened the event shortly after 7 PM. Fronted by singer Kelsey Fawcett, this four-piece grunge act delighted the audience with their intense 25-minute set. The packed ballroom crowd showed their appreciation enthusiastically. I wondered how we would follow that without a single rehearsal. I decided to compensate for any shortcomings by having fun on stage, knowing that the audience needed to see us enjoying the music to truly feel it.
As we began our set with “Get Ahead,” the first track from Ingles’ EP, muscle memory kicked in. I easily locked in with drummer Joel Strauss, while guitarist Phil Babineau beamed throughout. At the front, Ingles exuded confidence, blending folk, rock, and more, resonating with the audience. Discovering a common chemistry in a live setting is special, and any remaining apprehension quickly turned into the joy of playing music with friends. Before I knew it, our set ended, and we returned to the green room to catch our breath and watch the remaining acts.
The crowd grew louder with each performance. Punk band Customer Service impressed, while hard rockers Strychnine showcased serious skill. My jaw may have dropped at one point. Finally, the crowd danced and cheered for hometown favorites The Dooryard Drifters. The music stopped at 10:30 PM, and the judges retreated. I felt that every act had excelled, and it would come down to details like arrangements and harmonies, which require hard work and dedication. I didn’t think we stood a chance, but I was content. It was an evening well spent enjoying some of the East Coast’s top talent.
When the judges returned, organizers Daniel Monteith and Corey Crouse announced the awards. The “Virtual Fan Favourite” and “Second Place” awards went to The Dooryard Drifters—a well-deserved recognition. Then Monteith announced, “And the winner of the 2nd annual BIG Battle of the Bands is… The Zack Ingles Band!” I was nearly in shock as I headed to the stage with my bandmates. Ingles received a large, almost comical trophy, and every artist received a medal—a nice touch. Participants and organizers danced on stage, celebrating a true community event.
This event provided amazing value to each act, with video footage, professionally mixed audio, and photography by Ebony Scott. Win or lose, everyone left with something valuable. While the music scene can sometimes feel discouraging, I left with hope for the future. Woodstock should be proud of this wonderfully organized event, and I look forward to supporting it as a fan next year!
Photo Credit: Ebony Scott (Award Ceremony / Zack Ingles images)
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
