Bio
In the vibrant tapestry of Canadian music, the Dust Rhinos stand as a spirited testament to the infectious allure of Celtic and folk rock. Hailing from the musical heartland of Winnipeg, Manitoba, this quintet has been carving its sonic path for an impressive three decades.
Founded on a shared love for the spirited traditions of Celtic melodies, the Dust Rhinos have become synonymous with electrifying performances that transcend generations.
Blair McEvoy, the driving force behind the band, weaves a musical spell with his powerful vocals and storytelling. His charismatic stage presence sets the tone for a Dust Rhinos experience—a journey into the heart of lively, foot-stomping rhythms and soul-stirring melodies.
Dan Cannon, the rhythmic anchor on bass, provides the heartbeat that propels the Dust Rhinos’ distinctive sound. Darren Wittmann, the percussion wizard on drums, infuses each composition with dynamic energy, ensuring that every beat resonates with the audience.
The strings section, featuring the skilled hands of Ryan Spracklin on mandolin and fiddle, and the spellbinding Ivanka Watkin on the fiddle, adds a layer of enchantment to the Dust Rhinos’ musical landscape. Their harmonious interplay creates a rich, textured atmosphere that captivates listeners and transports them to the heart of Celtic revelry.
For over 30 years, the Dust Rhinos have been the
high-voltage heartbeat of the Canadian Celtic rock scene. Blending traditional melodies with a “pedal to the metal” punk-rock ethic, this Winnipeg-based powerhouse has built a legacy on sweat, stories, and the undeniable power of a well-placed mandolin or fiddle.
Today, the Dust Rhinos remain one of Canada’s most enduring Celtic acts. Whether they are reimagining a 200-year-old shanty, Celtifying a rock classic or debuting an original track, the Rhinos continue to prove that the spirit of the folk tradition is best served loud, fast, and with a heavy dose of Prairie grit.