DURHAM COUNTY POETS

“Lead singer Kevin Harvey and his band are sonic shape shifters of the first order. Whether it’s blues, folk, soul, country, gospel, or New Orleans swing, they purvey it with skill, aplomb and pure honesty.”
                                                                                                            – Nate Dow - Boston MA

“There’s something about the Durham County Poets that leaves you feeling that everything might be OK in the world after all. There’s a human spirit that lives in these people and their music is the medium that allows that spirit to roam free.”
                                                                                                             – Bill Hurley, Extended Play Sessions

Durham County Poets are a band in every sense of the word.

Their musical journey began in a humble café in Ormstown Quebec, and since then has spread throughout Canada and into the United States.

They’ve undergone their fair share of changes over the years, yet the core of the group including lead singer Kevin Harvey, Carl Rufh, bass player, and drummer Rob Couture remain. The other founding members, David Whyte, Neil Elsmore and James Preimel are no longer able to tour with the group but are still actively involved.Now, guitarist extraordinaire Rob MacDonald has comfortably stepped in bringing his unique playing, personality and musical skills to the group. Throw in tenor saxophonist & arranger Mark Leclerc in the mix, and you have an incredible five piece band.Want a little more? How about saxophonist Kaven Jalbert with his joy and exuberance into the mix now you have a band that is a force to be reckoned with!

Their fourth album, Hand Me Down Blues was nominated for a JUNO Award 2020 for Blues album of the year. Then Out Of The Woods, released in May of 2022 has garnered much attention, with top 40, top 20, top 10 best album of the year lists for 2022.

All members, both past and present still contribute to writing and arranging the songs, bringing something truly unique to the table every time.Various genres are respectively treated, including Blues, Soul, Folk, R&B, and Gospel, all weaving together to create a genuine Canadiana sound. Every song paints a picture and tells a story… Now presently in 2025 new songs are being flushed out and will find their place in the world soon when the time is right. It’s an exciting time to be involved in the music business today. So stay tuned.

The Fallout Shelter is an all ages performance venue welcoming worldwide, world class music in an intimate setting. Our studio audience attends to watch the creation and production of the music television series The Extended Play Sessions. The Fallout Shelter events are immersive experiences for both audience and performers alike...a live music experience like no other. We are fully ADA compliant and have wheelchair access. We have a wide selection of beer and wine for your adult beverage pleasures and each show comes with a free commemorative event poster. Our doors open at 6PM. Seating is General Admission. We recommend you arrive at the time the doors open.