Email to a friend Printer friendly Font: * * * * “This is surreal, really, for us to get to see everyone again and hang out,” said Paul. The band is less than two years old. They recorded their album in a week and mixed and mastered it in 24 hours. A year ago, they weren’t established enough to get a showcase at the WCMAs. They’ve since played shows in New York City and at the Beijing Pop Festival. The family dynamic is a key part of the band, said Maygen.

“When it comes together and we’re doing harmonies I think it’s a special blend.” Regina ska band Skavenjah, a seven-piece on this night though the numbers vary, picked up the host province’s only other award, outstanding urban recording. “This is the kind of business you pour your heart into. We’re the luckiest guys in the world,” said singer Chad Guy. He had an incredible weekend.

In addition to co-producing the festival line-up of 50 bands, Guy won the industry award for talent buyer of the year. After 15 years and countless line-up changes, this is the band’s first major award. Saskatchewan musicians went into the fifth annual event with 13 nominations, their best total to date. Manitoba dominated the night with eight awards. British Columbia had six and Alberta two. Moose Jaw’s close ties to the Snowbirds inspired the theme of the awards show.

It was held at Snowbirds Hangar 6 at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, renovated for the occasion with a stage, lighting, sound system, lounge and seating. The ceremony was preceded by an impressive half-hour Snowbirds demonstration for the crowd. Trailing coloured smoke, the precision aeronautics team dedicated its heart-and-arrow sky sketch to the WCMA nominees. Winnipeg’s Romi Mayes, touring in Sweden, was one of two double winners on the night.