The Quadra Legion will be hosting performances featuring Cortes musicians Mike Desj and the Big Buzz this month, marking the first time the ensembles have graced the neighbouring island's venue.

Mike Desj will be featured at the Legion on April 15 for the Frankie and Friends Variety Show, with Frankie Thomas and Railroad Tye. Desj describes the night’s genre as, “same as mine: folky, country, bluegrass, maybe a bit of punk rock in there.”

Desj is old friends with Railroad Tye, the artist who put the show together. The two met in Toronto years ago and traveled from Dawson City.

Desj often collaborates with others on stage. He was last featured locally in Whaletown collaborating with an artist named Milo, opening for the Still Spirits at the Gorge Hall. Milo will be featured on some of Desj's obscure covers, which he plans to start recording this summer.

On April 29, freshly minted Cortes band the Big Buzz will grace the Quadra Legion stage as well. Big Buzz are described as, “five of Cortes Island’s finest feral minds bringing folky, funky rock that will have you movin’ and groovin’ all night.” Cortes funny man guitarist Michael Keith will be opening for Big Buzz that night.

To hear more about the first show featuring Mike Desj, listen to the CKTZ News Update below: