Godfather of Canadian Punk Folk Movement, Toronto’s EUGENE RIPPER Releases "Folk Song 3000"/"Go Van Gogh”; Announces World Tour

Jul 05, 2023

Pioneer of the punk rock fast folk movement, Eugene Ripper is back with an electrifying new single “Folk Song 3000” accompanied by the powerful B-side “Go Van Gogh” and a series of shows for 2023. Steeped in the rich heritage of folk music infused with a contemporary twist, these tracks showcase Ripper’s distinctive song writing and musical prowess.

Ripper’s artistic journey took an inspiring turn after a memorable conversation with legendary New York City folk artist Dave Van Ronk. Ripper was just beginning his solo career and delving into the craft of song writing. He looked to create a fresh approach as he experimented with old public domain folk tunes.

“For me, at the time, this approach was pure creative instinct. So given this opportunity – chatting with an American folk legend in a casual setting, I asked him if this was cool – working material like this… after all, this dude had knocked around Greenwich Village with the likes of Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, and Woody Guthrie. If anybody would know the score – he would,” says Ripper.

After chatting in the lounge of a folk festival, Van Ronk’s response became a guiding light for Ripper’s artistic journey. With that wisdom from the Greenwich Village legend in mind, Ripper set out on a path as a solo artist. “Folk Song 3000” exemplifies this artistic direction as a genre blending masterpiece featuring a classic New York trip-hop beat, Americana acoustic guitar licks, and vibrant Latin percussion. The lyrics pay homage to the tradition of folk storytelling while brilliantly updating it to a modern context.

In a touching punk folk tribute to Vincent Van Gogh’s life and artistry, “Go Van Gogh” emerges as a compelling B-side. Inspired during a visit to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, the song showcases Ripper’s sharp wordplay and distinctive phrasing. The driving drumbeat and bongos, courtesy of alternative rock legend Billy Ficca from the renowned band Television, add an irresistible groove to the track.

Ripper is a trailblazer in Canada’s punk folk scene. From his early days with Canada’s first-wave surf punk rockers in the band Stark Naked and the Fleshtones to his enduring solo career, Ripper has been a master of blending punk, folk, blues, rockabilly, and rock into a signature musical sound. Celebrated for his poignant song writing and a unique sound imbued with a DIY punk rock ethos, Ripper’s musical journey has seen him flourish from the Toronto punk scene to the muddy roots of Vancouver and the vibrant anti-folk scene of New York City’s East Village. “Folk Song 3000” and “Go Van Gogh” are a testament to Ripper’s unwavering dedication to crafting innovative and heartfelt music that captivates audiences across generations.

Eugene Ripper Tour Dates:Sept 23 – Toronto, ON – ImperialSept 29 – Calgary, AB – PalominoSept 30 – Edmonton, AB – Black Dog (afternoon)Sept 30 – Edmonton, AB – Blakbar (evening)Oct 13 – Montreal, QC – Bar FlyOct 14 – Knowlton, QC – Thirsty BootOct 21 – Mahone Bay, NS – Betty’sOct 26 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ PubOct 28 – Edinburgh, UK – Voodoo RoomsOct 31 – Burghausen, DE – MathidaNov 01 – Salzburg, AT – Whisky MuseumNov 03 – Lyon, FR – Kraspek MyzikNov 04 – Freiburg, DE – Rock Club EimerNov 08 – Nuremberg, DE – KVNov 09 – Munich, DE – KooksNov 10 – Leipzig, DE- Frau GrausNov 11 – Karschule, DE- Scruffy’sNov 12 – Berlin, DE- KollectivBarNov 14 – Glasgow, UK – BlocNov 15 – Inverness, UK – Market BarNov 16 – Inverness, UK – Market BarNov 18 – York, UK – 45 CafeNov 19 – Hull, UK – AdelphiNov 21 – Edinburgh, UK – Sneaky PetesNov 23 – Leeds, UK – The GroveNov 24 – Darwen, UK – Number 35 LIVENov 25 – Warmington, UK – The CheshireNov 30 – Vancouver, BC – Fox Cabaret