Good things come to those who wait. Seasons turn and change but they always come around again. Such is the same with the musical force that is Sean Pinchin.

Some of you have certainly not heard, but this is raw talent. If Sean existed in another era, he would have been a legend. Hands down. His sandpaper howling acrobatic falsetto and snakey guitar wizardry hybrid of modern flat picking blues and vocal slide is very primal. He uprooted his life to Edmonton but he is back to haunt Ontario with a duo threat featuring upright bass player Scott Fitzpatrick. One night only on Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 6 to 9 pm. Details and reservations here. 

Seamus Cowan: Happy New Year Sean! Clearly I’m not the only one excited to have you back east here. You have assembled a sweet little tour. How is it putting a tour these days? Do you find yourself playing a variety of shows?

Sean Pinchin: Happy New Year to you my friend! I was worried that I might only get a few shows but this tour has turned into 13 shows in 19 days. Unbelievably awesome! Most of these shows have a similar vibe but as with any art form you need to be open to the opportunities. The shows typically range from intimate concerts to louder bars and lounges. I like the variety because it keeps me honest.

Q: So you moved out west. I know there were a few reasons you d coded to head out there. What’s it like out in the West compared to the Toronto area? What have you been up to? 

Sean: Good old Edmonton! My new home. Nothing like starting over in a new area with only a handful of contacts. I won’t lie and say it was easy for me but I have been working to find enough connections and venues to finally start outlining a living. Rejoice! The vibe of the West is great. Shows are generally well attended and the people really appreciate live music. After almost 2 years I think I might be finding my place. Much longer drives but man oh man, it is beautiful out here.

Q: Ever since you first played a Blues on the Rideau show a few years ago, I’ve been a big fan of your style. You have gravitated from the electric to the acoustic side of the art. Is there a different connection you feel to the music when getting intimate with the music on a lower volume, copy of level?

Sean: Truth is I have always preferred acoustic instruments. My first love was a Dreadnought acoustic and I haven’t strayed very far. My use of electric guitar goes thru phases but my love for a Martin acoustic goes year round. I had a Resonator obsession that kinda kept me in the middle lane a bit but I have since devoted my time and practice to acoustic music. Acoustic is harder to get the point across and I think that excites and challenges me. I sound like myself. And yeah, I like lower volumes hahah!

Q: I understand you are doing most of your touring this run with bass player Scott Fitzpatrick. What’s your story and connection with him? Are there any plans for a recording as a duo? 

Sean: Scott and I met when he was in Elliot and the Audio Kings. Loved his natural sound, and his voice pairs really well with mine. Not always easy to sing with me as I just kinda go for it but with Scott, I get to fill out the sound a bit more. He is a super adaptive player and I’m really lucky to share this run of shows with him. Not to mention he is super kind and a great hang! As for any recording, I do believe Scott and I will get into a studio at some point. Maybe this year?

Q: Writing, recording and creating will no doubt continue to be a major part of your journey. Have you been inspired by the change in scenery and influences? Anything of note that has awoken a new side of you?

Sean: YES! I have finally started writing regularly again. The West helped slow down the world enough to find a place to start again. I have been leaning into the Folk and Country elements a bit more and mixing it with the Blues format I typically use when playing. I was never really comfy just doing Blues music. I have too many influences and I really dig variety. I guess my goal is to mix the Delta Blues with Bluegrass, Country and Folk music. Less riffs, more story.