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Al K’s All Day Blues Party
A Musical Tribute To Al Kirkcaldy
Market Hall, Peterborough
Sun. Apr. 5, 2009
The musical celebration in honour of Al Kirkcaldy was an outstanding success! Al would have been proud. The audience was treated to wall to wall music over the course of two 4-hour shows courtesy of a virtual who’s who of the Peterborough and Toronto Blues scenes, plus special guest Darrell Nulisch. All generously donated their time and artistry to this momentous occasion. And, each show featured a special screening of a heartwarming DVD tribute to Al thoughtfully created by Mako Funasaka of talkin’ blues. As a final salute to Al’s memory, a total of $3,200 was generated for the Blues In The Schools program!
“Thanks Al … for your love of the Blues”
Rico Ferrara
Blues For A Big Town
"Blues to soothe your Soul"
www.bluesforabigtown.com
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BC SCENE THIS WEEK
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Ndidi Onukwulu
Library & Archives Canada Auditorium, 395 Wellington Street
Thursday, April 23; $15
With a sound as unique as her name, Vancouver native Ndidi Onukwulu is steeped in the blues, and talented enough to make you feel it. She has proven she can wrap her silky voice around anything from country blues to her own rootsy salon sound.
While singing a capella on New York City’s open mic circuit, Ndidi started jamming with some of the most accomplished hip hop and blues players on the scene. After leaving New York for Toronto, she sang in a rock band, and then in an electronic one. It was great training for her voice, but Ndidi ultimately stood by the blues music that first inspired her and developed a style that “demands to be listened to.”
Expect some amazing chemistry when Ndidi is joined onstage at BC Scene by guitarist Dave Sikula, violinist and mandolin player Jesse Zubot, drummer Skye Brooks and bassist Roey Shemesh.
**********
Gospel and Blues Revue
Library & Archives Canada Auditorium, 395 Wellington Street
Friday, April 24; $15
Famous for his evocative, smoky vocals, Jim Byrnes has been on the blues highway since his first professional gig in 1964, and has appeared on stage with a virtual who’s who of musical history including Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Robert Cray, and Ray Charles. Multi-instrumentalist, producer and multi-award winner Steve Dawson is constantly striving for unique sounds and approaches to acoustic music. His instrumental abilities have landed him on stages with artists as diverse as Gil Scott-Heron, Long John Baldry, Justin Rutledge, and Oh Susanna, to name just a few.
Jim hosts this special evening, which also includes the talents of up-and-coming gospel trio The Sojourners (seasoned vocalists Will Sanders, Ron Small and Marcus Mosely) who originally came together to provide background vocals for Jim’s 2006 album “House of Refuge.” He was so pleased with the trio’s contribution to his CD that he christened them “The Sojourners” and it stuck.
Now the veterans and the up-and-comers get together on stage for a one-of-a-kind evening of soulful blues and gospel music.
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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK
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Fathead
With special guest Peacework @ 9 pm
Tailgators, 1642 Merivale Road
Saturday, April 24 @ 10:15 pm – 1 am; tickets $15
Fathead convincingly combine elements of Soul, R&B, Gospel, and “straight-down-the-line” Blues. Their distinctive musical imprint is characterized by solid grooves, soul-drenched melodies, ace musicianship, and compelling true-to-life songwriting. (Rico Ferrara)
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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Virée Blues Boréale presents
Lewis Dave & King Melrose
Addiction, 117 Promenade du Portage, in the Old Hull sector
Wednesday, April 22
It’s a challenge to the finish that these two first place winners in the Blues upcomers category at Tremblant Blues International Festival will fight at Virée Blues Boréale. After outshining more than 42 other groups in that competition, these two young pianists decided on another challenge to determine who is the very best upcoming Blues pianist.
In the right corner, 23 years old, born in Drummondville and living in Joliette, with one album launched in 2008, Louis-David “Lewis Dave” Leclerc. Multi-talented musician, he began his career at age 6, with his mother starting his piano training. He kept on performing with a few choirs, a symphony orchestra and many Rock, Blues and Jazz groups while completing a DEC in drumming, a diploma from Joliette’s CEGEP in 2007, where he earned some scholarships. Then, at 15, he discovered his real passion: the Blues! Inspired by the styles of Little Richard, CCR, Ray Charles, B.B.King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Dr.John, Kenny ”Blue Boss” Wayne and Brian Setzer, Lewis Dave naturally came back to the piano when he decided, in 2006, to set up his own group, of which he was the singer-pianist. Lewis Dave performs some hits of the ‘50s and ‘60s, where the Boogie Woogie style Blues piano takes center stage, a bit in the style of Jerry Lee Lewis. With an original and energetic show, the group started touring the Province’s bars, halls and festivals and built a reputation on Quebec’s Blues scene. They are planning a new album for 2010.
In the left corner, also in his 20s and from Joliette, Sébastien Côté, a.k.a. King Melrose. Rather discreet with regard to his achievements, King Melrose wants to stand out performing his Blues Rock ‘50s style, his ‘60s and ‘70s style soul and his Blues of the whole century. With experience and inspiration similar to his opponent’s, his revisited versions of the great classics as well as his compositions brought him to perform over a hundred times on various Quebec stages during 2008 only. He is described as highly talented, very energetic by the critics who also praise his spirited performances.
Each of them displaying his own style will be accompanied for this challenge by “the Referees”, namely Marc-Olivier Pilon on Guitar, Philippe Rodrigue on Bass and Alexandre De Sève on Drums. Another name for this trio is “On The Rock” as in “Lewis On The Rock”. Their uncommon scenic presence will sure bring you a memorable moment at this rendez-vous for the first show of these two new 2008 ambassadors of the Blues, King Melrose and Lewis Dave On The Rock.
http://www.lewisdave.net
http://www.myspace.com/kingmelrose
http://www.myspace.com/vireeblues
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LEARN TO DANCE …
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Cajun and Zydeco Dance Lessons
Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street
Sundays, 7-9 pm, April 19 through May 17
Cost:$10
What a great idea! Cajun and Zydeco dance lessons. Something new we're trying. Tell your friends... What the heck, tell the neighbours too.
Jody Benjamin and Michael Ball will guide you through the Basics and Beyond in Three Classic Dances that are staples in clubs throughout SW Louisiana and now very popular in the New England States. It is a session of 5 consecutive Sundays starting April 19 and ending May 17. Classes are $10 each, pay as you go.
There will be instruction from 7-8 pm and supervised Free Dance from 8-9 pm. Singles are welcome. Our goal is to teach men and women how to lead and follow and leave you all with a dancing vocabulary that will stand you in good stead with a cool head in many dancing situations. The focus will be Cajun and Zydeco but keep in mind these dances work with other styles of music as well.
Dancing is a social activity by definition. This is not dancing for performance or competition. This is an inclusive activity that will help you be at ease in social settings where dancing would be a fun option. The Elmdale is an ideal setting for this activity with its old school charm and, not least, because the dancer will inevitably benefit from his/her proximity to the delicious tasting, high quality beverages available there.
Jody and Michael will provide music from their collection of recordings gathered over their many trips to SW Louisiana and to various festivals in the North East US.
These dances will culminate with a special event: On May 23rd Our friend and hero Jesse Lege', direct from Lake Charles Louisiana, is coming to play a Cajun Dance Party at the Knights of Columbus Hall (260 McArthur Ave) here in Ottawa.
We'll keep you posted.
Michael Ball
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or … LEARN TO SING
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Singing R&B and Blues
903 Carling Ave. @ Sherwood Dr. (Dow’s Lake/Preston area)
Tuesdays, 7:30 – 9 pm; 8 week course – April 21 – June 16 (no class May 26)
Sing classic Blues, Soul & Motown favourites. This course will focus on the stylistic considerations of the R&B and Blues genres. You will learn vocal techniques for breath support, phrasing, flexibility, range, judicious use of vibrato, diction, how to “belt” responsibly, lyric interpretation. Tour the background history of these styles, and the artists who have influenced these styles. Explore the art of backing vocals. All participants will be singing lead and back-up.
Instructor: Elise Letourneau, B.Mus., M.Ed.
Cost: $175.00 (non-refundable)
Prerequisite: Some singing experience is helpful.
What to Bring to Class: water, a notebook, recording device optional.
Note: This is a "less scent" class please do not wear perfume, cologne or body spray.
To Register please call Alcorn Music Studios
613-729-0693 or info@alcornmusicstudios.com
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CALLING ALL JAZZ MUSICIANS
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A message from Michel Martin to all local jazz musicians and interested jazz fans:
We need you to help make real our project of a co-operative of local jazz musicians operating a jazz club that hires local musicians for its programming. We have now received a pre-feasibility report from a co-operative consultant, for which we received funding from the Calgary-based Canadian Federation of Worker Co-ops. At our fifth meeting, we will study this report which starts to bring us into the domain of actual dollars and cents and concrete actions. As well, we will begin the next step, the feasibility study, and discuss collaboration with the Shine Foundation, a charitable organization devoted to music education which trumpet player Kelly Craig was instrumental in starting.
What we need most is to expand the circle of people that will help us make decisions. That is why we are inviting you and all local jazz musicians to the fifth meeting of the OJM Co-op Saturday, April 25,at 1 pm at the Bank Hotel in Hull,18 Eddy Street, near Promenade du Portage.
Hope to see you there. We need you.
Michel Martin
819-771-9859
PS There's ample parking available on the street near the Bank Hotel
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS EVERY WEEK
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Irene’s Blues Jam
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Thursdays, 9 pm – 1 am
The Stellar Cast Blues Jam is a bonafide grass roots event that has grown out of the very floorboards of Irene’s Pub and has become a real crowd pleaser for musicians and music lovers alike. The Stellar Cast features Mike Ktenas (bass) and Corky Kealey (drums) as the foundation, and is filled out by a host of great local players who rotate according to availability. Each week the cast is topped up with a guest host who steers the song selections in whatever way they're inspired and the jamming begins. It's a great concept and the proof is in the popularity the night has garnered over the years.
Guest hosts this month:
April 23 – Pat Johnson
April 30 – Guy del Villano
http://bacton.smugmug.com/share/cFoCZfrollzaE
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Sunday Blues, 6-9 pm, no cover
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)
Bands & dates to be confirmed; check out their new website
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Open Blues/Rock jam
Le Petit Chicago in Hull Centre-Town, 50 Portage St.
Sundays, 8-11 pm, starting March 29
We provide drums and amps, just bring your instrument. One musician at a time can play, with the band for improvisation, or as a standalone, for 15/20 minutes. You can register your name on a list at the door, choosing at what time you'd like to play. We suggest that you know how to communicate in terms of chords and rhythms, to make the improvisation easier and more convenient for the other musicians. You're more than welcome to come and play with us, and bring your friends! Le Petit Chicago is a very nice bar and we hope to see a lot of people. Spread the word!
nic_rip@hotmail.com
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Honky Tonk Saturday Night
With Ball and Chain and the Wreckers
Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street
First Saturday each month @ 9 pm; $6 at the door
Honky Tonk Saturday Night is a monthly event happening the first Saturday of every month.
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Open Blues Jam
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Last Sunday of each month, 4-7 pm; cover $5 (jammers free)
Hosted by River City Junction, the jam is open to all ages. Jammers sign up on the jam sheet at the door & each jam session lasts for 3 songs. Drums & amps are provided, you only need to bring your instruments (but you can bring your amps if you want to).
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Blues Jam
Avant- Garde Bar & Restaurant, 135 1/2 Besserer Street
First Tuesday of each month @ 8 pm
Hosted by River City Junction, this jam is open to guest performers, but is not an ’open jam’.
If you want to play, please contact River City Junction in advance to work out what instrument you play & what songs you would like to do.
Contact Jason jason@rivercityjunction.com
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Roots and Blues at Beaus
Beaus All Natural Brewing Company, 10 Terry Fox Drive, Vankleek Hill ON
1st Tuesday of every month, 7-10 pm; $10
Terry Gillespie is on hiatus from Blues on Tues, but has decided to share the gig with his friends. He has always wanted to style a juke and this is pretty close. Every time we play at Beau’s it gets a little better. Steve Beauchesne our host has added xmas tree lighting - much more intimate!
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Drum Church
Beaus All Natural Brewing Company, 10 Terry Fox Drive, Vankleek Hill ON
Every Sunday Starting April 4th, 10 am to noon; $5
DRUM CHURCH: Because Terry Gillespie loves music and thinks everyone should be in a band.
Drum Church has rules: No Songs and No solos!
Bring any instrument you want; electric or acoustic guitar, drums, broom stick, spoons, whatever.
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FESTIVAL NEWS
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Ottawa International Jazz Festival schedule
http://www.ottawajazzfestival.com/
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BLUES IN KINGSTON in APRIL & MAY
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“Night in Blues 3”
Featuring Erin McCallum
Davies Hall, St. Lawrence College, Kingston ON
Saturday, April 25; 6 pm until 11:30 pm
The Frontenac Children’s Aid Society presents “Night in Blue 3”, an evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing featuring blues artist Erin McCallum, big voice, big sound - one of the hottest new acts on the blues scene.
Preshow will feature our favorite blues sax man – Mike Butler. Opening the night will be Mojo Shooter (watch for their special guest announcement)
All proceeds benefit The Children’s Fund.
Visit http://www.nightinblue.ca for more information.
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Kingston Blues Society Monthly Jam
RCHA Club, 193 Ontario St. (big blue door), Kingston ON
3rd Saturday of each month, 9 pm – midnight; $3 at the door
Always one of the best nights of entertainment Kingston has to offer – come early as seating is limited.
Come out and see Mojo Shooter (one of Kingston's best bands) and a special guest each month. Then watch and dance as Mojo Shooter and some of Kingston's best musicians get together and jam the night away.
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David Rotundo
The Ale House, Kingston ON
Saturday, May 2
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Jerome Godboo
KBS 3rd Anniversary Show
Confederation Place Hotel
Saturday, June 13
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Weekly events
Georgette Fry
Brandees, 178 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Every Thursday night at 8:30 pm (new start time)
The Ones
Monte’s in the Prince George Hotel, 200 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Every Thursday night @ 9 pm
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For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society
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BC SCENE – APRIL & MAY
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BC Scene in Ottawa/Gatineau
Various venues
April 21 to May 3, 2009
Fusion! It’s in the air in British Columbia. From food to music, via theatre, visual and media arts, dance and literature, B.C. artists are collaborating to present a new kind of artistic experience. In spring 2009, Canada’s National Arts Centre will present 600 artists from all disciplines on the stages of the nation’s capital, and you’re invited.
BC Scene will celebrate a dynamic culture that is the fusion of traditional and contemporary, East and West and established and emerging artists from all parts of the province. Musicians, actors, dancers, visual and media artists, writers and master chefs will be bringing their magic to concert halls, theatres, galleries, bars, clubs, museums and restaurants in the national spotlight. While showcasing B.C. artists to diverse audiences, the Scene will also offer a chance for 80 national and international presenters to discover the best of contemporary B.C. talent. With over 90 events, BC Scene will present a vast living portrait of the province, capturing its edgy creativity and palpable energy – one represented by artists from every discipline, fusing history, modernity, cultural diversity and art to create something entirely new.
Blues-related events:
Ndidi Onukwulu
Library & Archives Canada Auditorium, 395 Wellington Street
Thursday, April 23; $15
With a sound as unique as her name, Vancouver native Ndidi Onukwulu is steeped in the blues, and talented enough to make you feel it. She has proven she can wrap her silky voice around anything from country blues to her own rootsy salon sound.
While singing a capella on New York City’s open mic circuit, Ndidi started jamming with some of the most accomplished hip hop and blues players on the scene. After leaving New York for Toronto, she sang in a rock band, and then in an electronic one. It was great training for her voice, but Ndidi ultimately stood by the blues music that first inspired her and developed a style that “demands to be listened to.”
Expect some amazing chemistry when Ndidi is joined onstage at BC Scene by guitarist Dave Sikula, violinist and mandolin player Jesse Zubot, drummer Skye Brooks and bassist Roey Shemesh.
**********
Gospel and Blues Revue
Library & Archives Canada Auditorium, 395 Wellington Street
Friday, April 24; $15
Famous for his evocative, smoky vocals, Jim Byrnes has been on the blues highway since his first professional gig in 1964, and has appeared on stage with a virtual who’s who of musical history including Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Robert Cray, and Ray Charles. Multi-instrumentalist, producer and multi-award winner Steve Dawson is constantly striving for unique sounds and approaches to acoustic music. His instrumental abilities have landed him on stages with artists as diverse as Gil Scott-Heron, Long John Baldry, Justin Rutledge, and Oh Susanna, to name just a few.
Jim hosts this special evening, which also includes the talents of up-and-coming gospel trio The Sojourners (seasoned vocalists Will Sanders, Ron Small and Marcus Mosely) who originally came together to provide background vocals for Jim’s 2006 album “House of Refuge.” He was so pleased with the trio’s contribution to his CD that he christened them “The Sojourners” and it stuck.
Now the veterans and the up-and-comers get together on stage for a one-of-a-kind evening of soulful blues and gospel music.
**********
Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, May 2; $10
High energy boogie-woogie that makes you want to get up and dance – that’s what Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne delivers, with an original sound that plays tribute to the greats of Rock ‘n’ Roll and the Blues. Think Fats Waller and Johnnie Johnson and you have an idea of what’s in store when you spend an evening with Canada’s premier purveyor of red-hot contemporary blues piano.
A Juno Award-winning keyboardist/singer/songwriter, Kenny is famous for his energizing boogie-woogie piano, rolling New Orleans blues and jazz, improv-heavy Kansas City swing, and vibrant West Coast jump. His smooth-as-silk singing voice, along with his sartorial flair, have made him a favourite with audiences and musicians from coast to coast.
With his supercharged new album entitled “Can’t Stop Now”, Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne clinches his reputation as Canada’s foremost king of swing.
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B.C. Music Legends
Centrepointe Theatre, 1 Centrepointe Drive
Friday, May 1; tickets $34.50
B.C. Music Legends is hosted by the most beloved folk musician on the West Coast, the inimitable Valdy, joined on stage by lyrical singer-songwriter Barney Bentall of Legendary Hearts fame; veteran blues singer Leon Bibb; folk legend Ferron; much loved singer-songwriter Roy Forbes; Will Millar, former lead singer of the popular Irish Rovers; and Shari Ulrich of celebrated ‘70s band, Pied Pumkin. This is a rare chance to catch these music heroes together on the same stage! Rejuvenate your musical soul with an evening of great songs, great performers, and a couple of trips down memory lane with some of the West Coast’s best musicians – you’ll be happy and humming all the way home.
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New this festival, the BC Scene music pass (Available only at the NAC Box Office) is your superb value ticket to any 6 of 30 exciting performances for only $50! Three of the shows listed above (Ndiddi Onukwulu, Gospel & Blues Revue and Kenny ‘Blues Boss’ Wayne) are among the 30 eligible performances. (B.C. Music Legends is not.) Single ticket prices for these three events total $40. To see which other music events are eligible for this pass, go to http://www.bcscene.ca/en/tickets/
For a full listing of all music events and links, check out http://www.bcscene.ca/en/events/byDiscipline.asp?dID=22
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SPECIAL EVENTS COMING IN MAY
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Ricky Paquette
Tucson's, 2440 Bank Street
Saturday, May @ 9:15 pm
Though only 18 years old, Ricky Paquette has been playing guitar for half of his life. His style combines his love of blues with classic rock, though he has studied classical guitar as well. His most recent CD is a live recording of his 2006 appearance at the Montreal Jazz Festival.
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Ken Hamm House Concert
Sunday, May 3 @ 7 pm; donation to the performer $15
From Dean Verger:
I watched Ken Hamm play acoustic and steel guitars. He is personable, friendly, and a rich resource on how to grow and tend trees. Little known, he started as a tree planter, then moved up the branches to own his own tree firm, supplying, tending, and planting trees for residential and commercial properties. So if you like music, and have questions on how to prepare your trees for the upcoming seasons, this is the event for you.
Ken has performed at the Edmonton Folk Festival, Calgary Folk Festival, Saskatoon Jazz Festival, Vancouver Island Musicfest and Canadian representative to the Festival of Plucked Strings in Morocco, as well as at Rasputin's on a number of occasions. Ken has been a teacher of guitar playing most of his life, and includes a busy schedule of workshops and private lessons as he tours. On top of all this, and after several decades on the west coast, Ken and his partner Heather Peat have relocated to southeastern Saskatchewan!
For more info/directions, please contact Dean at dean.verger@rasputins.ca
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Slide Guitar Basics with Ken Hamm
Ottawa Folklore Centre, 1111 Bank Street
Tuesday, May 5, 7-9 pm; Members $20; non-members $25
Ken will introduce several tunings, work on the techniques and tools of the slide player, and demonstrate with the tune ‘North Road Blues’. This song is downloadable from Itunes for those who want to preview it. Course level: beginner to intermediate.
For more info, or to register, please contact Alan, OFC School Co-ordinator, at
amarsden@ottawafolklore.com or 613-730-2887 ext 819 (1-800-385-FOLK)
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Roots and Blues at Beaus
Beaus All Natural Brewing Company, 10 Terry Fox Drive, Vankleek Hill ON
First Tuesday of every month
Reggae Nite Tuesday, May 5, 7-10 pm, $10
Featuring the World music of Terry Gillespie.
With guests: Trevor Brewster - guitar, Terry Owen - sax, Peter Measroch - keys, Jeffery Grosvenor - hand drums, Jacinthe Boucher - hand drums and Wayne Stoute - drums, with special guest Owen Brown - bass, fresh off the plane from Jamaica.
What a band! 8 players originating from 5 different counties, with a nod to England and the US, including three islands! Dance, dance, dance to the music!
Mary's Country Kitchen will be catering, and promises a menu in the Caribbean theme at a crazy low price.
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Akpokli Drum & Dance
Mercury Lounge, Byward Market
Friday, May 8; 8:30 pm; $10
Come out to see Akpokli's last show with outgoing artistic director Larry Graves. Graves's influence over the last three years as leader of the ensemble will be felt during this high-energy performance, which will prominently feature Dagomba drumming music from the northern region of Ghana. Graves is the drummer for the Juno nominated Afro-Funk band Mr. Something Something. He is well known throughout North America for his commitment and skill in the style of Dagomba music. He recently brought members of Akpokli to the Boston area to pay tribute to the late Alhaji Abubakari Lunna, a beloved teacher of this style of music to several drummers at Baobab Tree. A show not to be missed!
Akpokli is a group of dancers and drummers dedicated to the study and performance of music from Ghana West Africa. Formed in 1995, they are part of the larger Baobab Tree Drum Dance Community which provides arts programming for ages seven and up. For more information please visit www.baobabtree.org
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Ball and Chain
Blueberry Hill Bistro, Vankleek Hill
Tuesday, May 12, 7-10 pm - $10
Advance tickets (recommended) 613-678-2364
and
2 Beans Café, Main Street South, Alexandria, ON
Wednesday May 13; doors open at 5:30 pm, dinner at 6 pm; dinner & performance $30
Advance tickets (recommended) 613-525-1466.
Kasey, chief cook and owner of 2 Beans Café will be offering a special menu to complement the evening's entertainment. Proceeds of the bar will be donated to "Friends of the Barn" Home of the Glengarry Music Festival.
Ball and Chain:
Jody Benjamin is a lead singer in the Toasted Westerns, Ottawa's favourite singing sandwich. Together since 1988, they recorded their album “Out to Lunch” in 1995 and are still going strong. Her driving Cajun triangle can be heard on several recordings, including albums by Keith Glass
(Prairie Oyster), Jennifer Noxon, Zydeco Loco and Shelley Posen. She sings harmony and plays guitar and triangle on Michael Jerome Browne's 2004 album released on Borealis Records.
Michael Ball's first exposure to Cajun and Zydeco music was when he joined Danielle Martineau's band, Rockabayou in 1992. The band toured Europe, Canada and the U.S. and recorded three albums between 1992 and 1997. Visiting Louisiana since 1996, Michael has been learning from such great
players as David Greely, Edward Poulard and Mitchell Reed to name just a few. He was picked up by Prairie Oyster for the summer of 2003 and continues to play and record with such artists as Jennifer Noxon, Keith Glass and Finest Kind.
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Jack de Keyzer
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, May 23 @ 10 pm
Blues, jazz, funky R&B and swing are all part of the palette that colour Jack de Keyzer’s musical portraits. The much acclaimed guitarist, singer and song writer has worked with artists as varied as King Biscuit Boy, Etta James, Blue Rodeo, Robert Gordon, Otis Rush and the Bop Cats. His guitar playing has been featured on hundreds of recordings; as a song writer he has been covered by Prairie Oyster on their hit album ‘Everyone Knows’ ; and as a singer he once sang a duet with kd lang. (Alright... it was a Budweiser commercial...) He performs internationally over 150 shows per year, and is a multiple Maple Blues Award nominee & winner, 2003 Juno winner and 2008 Juno nominee. Jack de Keyzer is a masterful, jazz infused electric blues guitarist, soulful singer and eclectic song writer of the first order.
www.jackdekeyzer.com
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Blues Open Stage
Branch Restaurant, 15 Clothier St E, Kemptville ON
Sunday, May 24, 3-6 pm
George Buys is hosting a Blues open stage at the Branch restaurant in Kemptville ON Sundday May 24, from 3-6 pm. All are welcome!
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The 2nd Annual Singin' the Blues for Ethel
Bourbon Street West, 1866 boul. des Source, Dorval QC
Sunday, May 31 @ 7 pm; $15 in advance or $20 at the door
Bourbon Street West is proud to present the second annual benefit concert in support of the thel Bruneau Dance School. For the second year, a host of musicians and dancers come together raising funds for the legendary Ethel Bruneau, aiding her on her quest to provide children with a means to realize their dreams.
Born in Harlem, Ethel Mae Waterman Bruneau arrived in Montreal in 1953 with the Cab Calloway Orchestra. What was supposed to be a three week engagement turned into over 50 years of teaching the art of 'hoofin'. Along the way she has amassed quite a few awards and acknowledgements for doing what she loves to do, the most recent being the 'Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Achievement Award'. As much as she has received, she has given out far more. A recent example took place at the Montreal Tap Dance Society Awards, where she handed out 40 student scholarships. This money will help students, who would otherwise not have the opportunity, start on a path towards following their dreams.
This year’s show will include the harder edge sounds of the band 'Trouble Is', an acoustic set from bluesy trio '22nd Avenue' as well the thrilling, soulful voice of Carolyn-Fe supporting her latest release. Dance performances will showcase the dazzling 'Dance Trance' with a special performance by one of Ethel's protégés Justin Jackson (as seen on Canada's "So You Think You Can Dance").
The evening will end with a not-to-be-missed musical performance by the legend herself, Montreal's own Queen of Tap, Ethel Bruneau, with special guest on guitar, her son JP Bruneau.
Tickets/Reservations/Information:
Ken Gaucher 514-436-7104 ken.gaucher@gmail.com
Karen Abrams 514-919-1866
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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU – 2008/2009
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These great Dinner & Show fundraiser nights, featuring some of Canada's best blues artists in the intimate friendly setting of The Cove Inn, Westport continue to attract full houses - many coming from out of town and staying overnight at the Inn or nearby B&Bs along with over 50% at each Show who are multiple time attendees. Treat yourself to a wonderful night of dinner, blues and dancing for only $55. You can spend that much on a dinner alone at many restaurants. Rooms are in the $100 to $130 range based on double occupancy, accommodation and breakfast for two included! Great value during these recessionary times.
Check out the Line-up for the rest of this season, pick your favourite and CALL THE COVE ASAP at (613) 273-3636 or 1-888-COVE-INN before all the seats are gone. As of this date there are still tickets available for all Shows.
Remaining 2008/09 Season Schedule
May 15-16 – DANNY BROOKS & THE MEMPHIS BROTHERS
You will think you are driving into Memphis listening to the radio when you hear Danny & his band. This is his second visit to BOTR at The Cove and if his Show is anywhere near as good as the last one (and it will be) you are in for a wonderful and memorable night.
Proceeds to Compassion Canada Sponsor a Child & Habitat for Humanity
June 19-20 – STEPHEN BARRY BAND with Special Guest MICHAEL JEROME BROWNE
Montreal based Stephen Barry and his band have been playing their great style of blues for so long he is known as "the father of Quebec blues". For years Michael Jerome Browne was a key member of the band as the lead singer playing guitarist, mandolin and fiddle before he branched out to a very successful solo career as an acoustic roots/blues artist. Either one of them is worth the price of admission. What a special treat to have them reunited and playing together for these two Shows.
Proceeds to Lucy Drysdale Memorial Scholarship & Westport Library
DINNER & SHOW $55 (includes taxes & donation to charity)
Buffet at 7 pm, Show at 8:30
Advance reservations required
CALL THE COVE (613) 273-3636 or 1-888-COVE-INN
Artists may change - check the web site or call The Cove for updates.
Visit www.bluesontherideau.ca for more information
See you at The Cove!
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BLUES ON THE RADIO
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On CKCU-FM 93.1
The Mighty 93.1
Community Radio serving the Ottawa Carleton Region
Sundays: 9-11 pm
Black and Blues
with John Tackaberry
The show features a heavy dose of electric blues and rhythm and blues, with the occasional selection of sixties soul. The first hour is dedicated to artist profiles and reviews of recordings on particular labels. In the second hour there is a blues calendar, a rundown of events in Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, and interviews with “new and reissued blues and rhythm and blues tracks on wax, alternating with “live blues and R&B for a Sunday night” in the last half hour of the show. On the last Sunday of every month, the show goes “down in the delta” for a selection of acoustic blues tracks in the final half hour of the program.
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Wednesdays: 9-11 pm
In A Mellow Tone
with Ron Sweetman
Jazz from every era & every style – from 1917 to 2008. Each program features an artist, group, instrument, event, city or record label. Check out Ron’s website www.inamellowtone.com for info on upcoming shows and playlists (current show is posted several days in advance and past shows are archived). Ron is always happy to hear from listeners at ronsweetman@kalixo.com
This week, April 22 – Stickman: Neil Haverstick, known professionally as Stickman, takes us into the world of micro-tonality. He plays jazz and blues on acoustic and electric guitars modified to have 19 or 34 equal steps to the octave, which allows greater variety while still preserving most of our common consonant intervals.
Next week, April 29 – Duke Ellington: The one-and-only Duke Ellington was born 110 years ago today. Ron has chosen a selection of his favourite recordings from the Ducal legacy.
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Last Saturday of the month, 9-9:30 am
Honky Tonk Saturday Morning
with Ball and Chain
This 12-part series features Michael Ball and Jody Benjamin performing live on radio. Each month will have a different theme like classic country, bluegrass, old time, drinking, cheating and yodelling.
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On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM
Saturdays: 10 pm – midnight
Saturday Night Blues
Host Holger Petersen has been a broadcaster, record producer, album collector, and serious blues fan for over 30 years. His collection of blues records numbers in the thousands. On Saturday Night Blues each week you’ll hear a mix of classic blues from the ‘Petersen Vaults’, concerts, interviews, artist features, new releases, plus anything that boogies, jumps, or swings, plus your requests from the Bluesline.
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On CJHR 98.7 Valley Heritage Radio
Thursdays, 8-10 pm
Got The Blues
Pat Watters has been hosting this blues only radio show for the last 2+ years. It can be heard throughout the Ottawa Valley (except downtown Ottawa).
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WEEKLY EVENTS ON THE SMALL SCREEN
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ALWAYS check local listings to confirm.
On BRAVO – www.bravo.ca
Tuesday, April 21 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots and Soul
Waterloo Tennessee (2007): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and their music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features the all female bluegrass band Uncle Earl.
Tuesday, April 21 @ 7 pm – Long John Baldry: In the Shadow of the Blues (2006)
The life and legacy of guitarist and singer Long John Baldry is examined in this one-hour documentary. Baldry played a key role in the growth of the British rhythm and blues movement, and led bands in the mid-1960s that featured Rod Stewart and Elton John, both of whom are interviewed in the documentary. In the `80s, Baldry emigrated to Canada, living first in Toronto and then in Vancouver, where he died in 2005.
Tuesday, April 28 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots and Soul
People Gonna Talk/James Hunter (2007): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features R&B artist James Hunter.
Monday, May 4 @ 9 pm – Johnny Cash: Behind Prison Walls
In this one of only two prison concerts that were filmed for broadcast, "Johnny Cash: Behind Prison Walls" features the ten-time Grammy Award winner performing at the Tennessee State Penitentiary in Nashville in 1976. It features Cash with special guests Linda Ronstadt and Roy Clark performing a selection of their biggest hits such as Folsom Prison Blues, Orange Blossom Special, A Boy Named Sue and Ronstadt's version of the Eagles' Desperado. This concert has legendary status in the USA but has never had an official release in Europe. It is much sought after by Johnny Cash fans and country music fans in general.
Tuesday, May 5 @ 7:30 am - Rhythm, Roots and Soul
Broken Down, But Not Out/Reba Russell (2008): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features singer Reba Russell.
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WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONTH
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Wednesdays: Dr Dave Revue @ the Rainbow, 5-8 pm
Wednesdays: Brian Downey @ The Avant-Garde Bar, 8:30 pm
Wednesdays: Acoustic music with Jeff Rogers @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm
Wednesdays: Open Jam @ the New Bayou, 9 pm
Thursdays: Acoustic blues with Al Tambay & friends @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm
Thursdays: Mike Ktenas hosts the Blues Jam @ Irene’s, 9 pm to closing
Sunday afternoons: Blues jam @ the Rainbow, 3-7 pm
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LOCALS LOOK AHEAD
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Saturday, May 2
robert farrell @ Carleton Tavern, 10 pm
Friday, May 15
Barrelhouse @ The Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Saturday, May 16
Wicked Grin @ The Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Saturday, May 23
The FunKtion @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm
Friday, May 29
JW-Jones @ The Rainbow, 9:30 pm
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