Blues Legend Brandon Isaac & Coast Salish Artist Jesse Recalma

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This PULSE podcast episode celebrates Vancouver Island's incredible artistic talent. Featuring blues musician Brandon Isaac ("Yukon Slim") discussing his latest album "Walking with the Blues" after 37 years of touring, plus Qualicum First Nation artist Jesse Recalma sharing insights into traditional Coast Salish art and his stunning Qualicum Beach waterfront totem pole installation.

(09:26) Vancouver Island blues music takes center stage as Brandon Isaac discusses his latest album "Walking with the Blues" and reflects on 37 years of touring including 13 European tours and performances across China. The Juno-nominated artist shares insights about maintaining traditional blues authenticity while connecting with modern audiences, emphasizing why he considers blues music a celebration of life rather than depression.

(32:58) Indigenous Coast Salish art comes alive through Jesse Recalma's passionate discussion of traditional carving techniques and contemporary applications. The self-taught artist reveals the philosophy behind his work, including his spectacular metal totem pole installation at Qualicum Beach waterfront and his upcoming paddle carving demonstration at the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere's 10 Amazing Places Project.

Episode Highlights

"'Walking with the Blues' is just really about my journey of music... For the last 37 years, I've been walking this journey with the blues. Not saying I've been depressed for 37 years—some people think the blues is a depressing thing. It's not. It's a celebration of life." - Brandon Isaac

"I was told before that a tree's been sitting there for 500, 600 years, has had a lot of time to think about what it wants to be. So you're just helping it now." - Jesse Recalma

Upcoming Vancouver Island Arts Events

Brandon Isaac Performance: Parksville Museum concert series, Thursday, July 24th. Jesse Recalma Live Carving: Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere's 10 Amazing Places Project at McMillan Art Center, weekend of July 19th. Beach Fest Rocks: August 8-10, Parksville Community Park. Village Sidewalk Music: Qualicum Beach, Saturdays.

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