Award-winning Australian singer-songwriter Peter D. Harper - known in the music world simply as Harper - creates a heady mix of roots music through his creative use of harmonica and the drone of the didgeridoo.
Harper's 2016 CD, "Show Your Love," which featured 11 original tracks recorded with his Detroit-based touring band Midwest Kind, hit No. 3 on Billboard album charts and remained in the Top 10 for six months.
Harper & Midwest Kind bring their sound to Nightfall on Friday, May 10. Opening for them will be Aaron Carney Band at 7 p.m. The free summer concert series is held in Miller Park, 928 Market St.
Born in the United Kingdom, Harper says his musical journey began early, performing in brass bands playing the trumpet and euphonium. At age 10, his family moved half-way around the world to Perth, Australia, and his grandfather introduced Harper to the harmonica.
In Perth, there was a thriving blues and folk scene, and the music's rawness and honesty spoke to Harper. Those artists influenced his music.
"I think Muddy Waters really hit me hard. There was something incredibly special about his sound, his powerful voice and his songs. I would sing his songs constantly. I also really dug Sonny Boy Williamson II as well. I loved his rhythmic use of his harp. I was also inspired by a pretty wide range of players and styles like Little Walter, Sugar Blue and Stevie Wonder, who guided me in my harmonica playing."
Prior to his introduction to American audiences, Harper released six CDs to great acclaim in Australia. He received a Gold Record for "Sailing Australia" (America's Cup theme). He had the honor of backing Muddy Waters on harmonica for his West Australian tour.
In August 2018, Harper's CD with German guitarist Joachim Griebe, "Distant Unity," was released.