Vox Populi: Winnipeg’s Quintessential Voice of a Generation Hits the West End Stage

By: Donovan Martin Sr, Editor in Chief

Winnipeg’s music scene has always been a treasure trove of talent, a city whose streets hum with creativity and whose venues cradle the dreams of musicians striving to make their mark. This fall, a band that embodies the spirit, ambition, and heart of this city is set to take the West End stage in a show that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Vox Populi, a group whose very name translates to “the voice of the people,” is bringing its world-class sound, award-nominated talent, and deeply personal artistry to a venue that has stood as a cornerstone of Winnipeg’s cultural life for decades. For fans of soulful pop, intricate musicianship, and live music experiences that resonate far beyond the notes, this is a performance that cannot be missed.

Formed in 2015, the group was born out of a simple yet profound desire: to create a band where new music could be written, shaped, and experienced live. Its founding members were no strangers to the city’s thriving music ecosystem; all seasoned session and working musicians, they had crossed paths countless times, playing in different projects, collaborating on gigs, and sharing a love for craft that transcends genre. When the time came to bring their collective experience to a single project, the chemistry was instantaneous. The lineup—Carter Graham on keyboards and keytar, Sheena Rattai’s soulful vocals, Emmanuel Bach’s virtuoso guitar work, Kevin Waters’ masterful drumming, and Julian Bradford’s grounding basslines—melds into a singular unit where each voice, each instrument, contributes to a greater whole. Their creative process is both collaborative and organic: scratch recordings, detailed charts, rehearsals, and live performances serve as laboratories where songs evolve, flourish, and take on their full life.

Musically, the band is a bridge between eras. Their sound recalls the golden age of 1980s soul, funk, and pop, drawing inspiration from luminaries like Stevie Wonder and George Duke, while paying homage to the rich textures and harmonies of bands such as the Doobie Brothers. Yet, they are far from a nostalgia act. Their music is modern, vibrant, and alive with the possibilities of contemporary production and instrumentation. While compositions honour traditional song structures, complete with instrumental bridges and solos, they are infused with modern sensibilities that make each track feel immediate and relevant. Whether it’s the intricate harmonic layering or the rhythmic sophistication, their songs appeal to those who cherish depth, soul, and the subtle artistry that makes a live performance unforgettable.

One of their hallmarks is the dedication to the transformative power of live performance. Unlike many acts whose studio recordings are polished but their stage presence is tentative, the band thrives in front of an audience. Each show is a carefully orchestrated journey, where solos are both expressive and spontaneous, and the setlist—though structured—leaves room for the natural ebb and flow of live energy. Past performances at major festivals like the Winnipeg Jazz Festival and Gentlefest have solidified the band’s reputation for commanding the stage, eliciting enthusiastic responses from audiences numbering in the thousands. There is something deeply communal in their shows: the audience is not merely a spectator but an integral part of the music’s heartbeat, responding, moving, and becoming part of the story being told in real time.

The debut album, Invasive Species, is a testament to their artistic vision and meticulous craftsmanship. Its title is deliberately provocative, a reflection on the human condition, our impact on the planet, and the challenges of navigating a complex and often harsh world. Within this framework, the album explores themes of love, resilience, and connection—universal experiences rendered with sophistication and soul. Tracks such as “Running In The Wrong Direction” encapsulate the essence of the group, weaving gospel-inspired harmonies, infectious grooves, and harmonic sophistication into a track that feels both timeless and immediate. Even in songs where challenges arose—like translating horn arrangements into a five-piece ensemble—their ingenuity shines, demonstrating not only technical skill but the imaginative spirit that makes their music a joy to experience.

The members bring a remarkable diversity of musical backgrounds to the table, enriching their sound with influences that span continents and genres. Emmanuel Bach’s experience in heavy metal bands in Brazil lends a fearless intensity to his solos, while Kevin Waters’ church-rooted rhythmic sensibility provides both foundation and flourish. Sheena Rattai’s vocals embody both technical mastery and heartfelt expression, capable of conveying tenderness and power in a single breath. Carter Graham’s keyboards and keytar bring both flair and harmonic depth, adding color and energy to every live performance. Together, their collective experiences are distilled into a sound that is polished yet organic, structured yet fluid, professional yet imbued with the warmth and spontaneity that makes live music magical.

Beyond the music itself, the band’s trajectory speaks to ambition and dedication. Opening for Canadian soul sensation Tanika Charles and performing at festivals like Gentlefest allowed them to hone their craft in high-stakes environments, learning from each audience, each stage, and each collaborative opportunity. Their journey is a celebration of Winnipeg’s role as a music city, a place where talent is nurtured and opportunities are earned through dedication, skill, and passion. They embody the notion that local music can achieve global relevance while remaining rooted in community.

This upcoming West End performance is more than a concert; it is an invitation to support a thriving, world-class music ecosystem. The venue itself, a stalwart of Winnipeg’s cultural scene, provides a setting where history and modernity converge—a space where decades of local music legacy coexist with the excitement of new artistic expression. Attending this show is a chance to be part of a tradition of live music that champions creativity, celebrates artistic risk, and honours the musicians who make it all possible. For audiences, it is a rare opportunity to experience musicianship of the highest calibre, up close and personal, in a context that values both artistry and community.

Looking ahead, the vision for the next few years is ambitious yet grounded. The band hopes to release additional albums, expand their reach through domestic tours, and continue evolving as a creative entity. Yet even as they reach for broader horizons, their connection to Winnipeg remains central—a testament to the city’s influence on their music, their growth, and their artistic identity. Every note, lyric, and performance is infused with the city’s vibrancy, its challenges, and its inexhaustible creative energy.

For those considering whether to attend, the case is compelling: this is a group that embodies excellence in musicianship, the soul of Winnipeg’s music community, and the excitement of discovering artistry at its peak. Whether you are a long-time fan of pop and soul, a connoisseur of sophisticated live performance, or someone simply seeking a memorable night out, they promise an experience that will linger long after the final chord fades. Supporting this show is supporting the continuation of a vibrant local music scene, celebrating artists who have achieved both recognition and respect, and witnessing a band whose very name reflects giving voice to the people.

In an era where music is often consumed in isolation, through headphones or streaming apps, live performances like this remind us of the transformative power of collective experience. The audience is invited not only to listen but to participate, to feel the energy, to share in the joy, and to leave with a renewed appreciation for what local, world-class talent can achieve. The West End stage will light up with their presence, their sound, and their message, offering an evening of musical richness that is both intimate and grand, reflective and exhilarating.

There is no doubt that attending this show will be a highlight of the season. It is a celebration of artistry, of community, and of the enduring vitality of Winnipeg’s music scene. With their sophisticated, soulful, and deeply human body of work, the performance promises to translate every nuance, emotion, and note into an unforgettable experience. For anyone seeking a night that combines musical excellence with heart, intelligence, and sheer joy, this is a show not to miss. Come witness the voice of a generation rise in the West End, celebrate the music that binds us, and be part of a moment that will resonate long after the last note has been played.

If you want to support this incredible local band and be part of an unforgettable live music experience, now is the perfect time to get involved. By attending their show, you’re not only celebrating world-class, award-nominated talent, but also contributing to the thriving Winnipeg music community and helping keep local venues alive and vibrant. For more information about the band, upcoming shows, and how you can show your support, click here.