Jeff Wiseman was born to sing.

For those who have heard him perform, there are few who doubt his parents’ claim that he sang before he talked.

Going back in time to October 2008, Wiseman was in full flight on stage at St. Andrew’s Place performing to an audience of more than 300. As always, his show takes the crowd on a roller-coaster ride of emotions. He switches with ease from piano to guitar and between musical genres, from easy-going folk and country to songs that pull strongly on the heart, such as Bring Him Home from Les Miserables.

Wiseman’s power as a performer has not gone without notice on the larger Canadian music scene. West Coast folk giant Valdy has toured with Wiseman and states “Jeff’s voice sends shivers up my spine.”

Nova Scotia award-winning artist Dave Gunning has toured with Wiseman, sharing the stage with him at sold out shows. He regards him as a triple threat due to his vocal ability, original songs and strong guitar playing.

His respect has been reflected at shows where Gunning has jokingly brought Wiseman on stage with the comments like “And now Jeff Wiseman is going to take over. I’m going to excuse myself now. I think I’ll just go back stage and burn my voice.”

Attendees of the show are in for a solid evening of entertainment as Wiseman has invited some special musical friends to perform at the show. While lesser known, all three of his guests are players who live and breathe music.

Perhaps the biggest surprise to the Sudbury audience will be a guest appearance by Gerry Bakker. In Clark Kent fashion, Bakker will switch persona as he sets aside his stethoscope and straps on a six-string guitar to reveal his “true” calling in life.

The transformation is amazing. Who knew? Some probing reveals that Bakker began performing in clubs in southern Ontario as a teen. He earned his way through university as a weekend performer in folk clubs and at social functions. His tunes are poignant, his guitar work sensitive, and his voice haunting in its honesty.

Bakker will perform his song Invisible Man which paints a vivid picture of homelessness. The song was recorded by Wiseman as the signature song for a benefit album for the Sudbury Food Bank.

Gary Gibson will also perform at this concert, accompanied by Elmer Jackson. Primarily known for his skills as a sound engineer, Gibson has had more than his fair share of acclaim as a touring performer. He has fronted rock bands including a ten-year stint as the frontman for a Black Sabbath cover band. As the lead voice for the country rock band Rodeo Drive, Gibson and his band performed in packed clubs throughout the province.

Jackson also brings a ton of musical experience to this show. A gifted guitarist, Jackson has been the lead voice for numerous rock bands and was one of the vocal leads in the popular bluegrass band Lily Creek.

Jackson is another road warrior, with experience touring with Murray McLauchlan and as a guest on Nashville Tonight. A few years ago, Sony Records signed Jackson to a songwriting deal as the result of his ability to craft great tunes.

Sudburians will have the opportunity to see Wiseman and the crew in concert on Feb. 18 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Place, located at 111 Larch St.

Tickets are $15 student/senior (under 20, over 60) or $20 adult. They may be purchased at Black Cat on Durham or Jett Landry on LaSalle d. You may also call Bob Bale at 705-523-6200 to reserve tickets for payment at the door on concert night.

Posted by Arron Pickard