The ever-popular Robert Thomas & the sessionmen bring their stellar songwriting and musicianship – along with special guest Freya Milliken – back to The Carleton on Friday, May 22nd. Show time is 8 PM and tickets are $25 + HST.
“A vibrant fusion of John Prine’s sharp wit and Lyle Lovett’s musicality paired with the Live energy and spirited performance of their Canadian cousins, Great Big Sea. Thomas and his stellar mates craft a fun, memorable musical experience that harmonizes storytelling with dynamic stage presence.” – The LA Times
2025 International Acoustic Music Award winner and 2026 Canadian Folk Music Award nominee Robert Thomas has crafted songs for legends including, Kenny Rogers, Bonnie Raitt, Joe Cocker, and the Dixie Chicks. As a staff writer for music publishing, Thomas was tasked with writing radio friendly songs and his diverse repertoire reflects that. Thomas writes songs we can all connect with – memorable sing along melodies, ear friendly lyrics couched in an array of grooves – all introduced with a masterful, often humorous, repartee that harkens back to the story telling era of Mark Twain and Stuart Maclean. Accompanied on fiddle, mandolin, guitar, keyboards and percussion by the “sessionmen” – Ray Legere and Jon Arsenault – whose credits in their own right include, Alison Krauss, Rita MacNeil, Doc Watson, Tony Rice and The Chieftains – Thomas delivers beautiful, energetic Folk/Americana mixed with a touch of Bluegrass that has captivated audiences across North America and Europe.
It’s been quite a year for Robert Thomas and the sessionmen –
- An International Acoustic Music Award win
- Nomination for a Canadian Folk Music Award Nomination for “Best New Artist” (Announcement in April) and selection to perform at the CFMA Gala
- Official Selections at the Hague, Folkstone and Bollywood Film Festivals for their video “The Way We Roll”
- and, recently – 2 ECMA 2026 nods for “Roots Recording of the Year” and “Breakthrough Artist of the Year “
“A vibrant fusion of John Prine’s sharp wit and Lyle Lovett’s musicality paired with the Live energy and spirited performance of their Canadian cousins, Great Big Sea. Thomas and his stellar mates craft a fun, memorable musical experience that harmonizes storytelling with dynamic stage presence.” – The LA Times
Hugh Christopher Brown of the Barenaked Ladies – “Watching Robert’s set, I felt the presence of a true arrow songwriter and unbelievably talented musicians. It sent me back immediately to playing with Guy Clark on Mountain Stage and artists that have built the north American songbook.”
Grammy Winner Rodney Crowell – “These boys really know what they’re doing.”
The Americana Music Association – “Highly recommended…five stars”
Freya Milliken is an award-winning singer-songwriter whose music resonates with warmth, authenticity and introspection. Known for her rich, velvety voice and dynamic blend of indie-folk and rock influences, Freya’s music will take you through an evocative journey of self-discovery and reflection, with a gentle yet powerful lure into an intimate and heartfelt realm.