10 August 2009

Ottawa Blues This Week - 10 August 2009

********************************************************

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

********************************************************

Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo

CD release

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Friday, August 14 @ 9:15 pm

From Steve Lund:

Mumbo Jumbo is 18 years old this August.

But, more importantly, I’d like to announce the release of our fourth CD of Mumbo music, “Mardi Gras Dans La Boite”.

Recorded in the wilds near Westmeath by our bassist Grant Tomkinson … with only the band, no guests … trying not to add the kitchen sink … just the sounds we normally make … the instrumentals are one takes … more of a live feel to the whole album. In the dead cold of winter … in the mosquito & heat-drenched hills north of Ottawa … well it took a little while …. Yes, even huddled in a van they traversed up and down Hwy 17 at all hours of the day and night … actually it was quite a nice drive and I sometimes brought a picnic … so much for the blood, sweat and tears, angst-filled part.

“Mardi Gras Dans La Boite” is a collection of songs from New Orleans, as well as music from lands that touch on the Caribbean Sea (Jamaica, Venezuela, Cuba and Puerto Rico), plus tunes from our repertoire. Some of these are new, while others have been with us since 1991. Songs from our past and our present influences. Some originals, and tunes composed by or made known to us by … Los Lobos, Desi Arnaz, John Mayall (once covered by Motorhead), Ry Cooder, Dr. John, The Neville Bros. and some timeless Mardi Gras standards. I don’t know why we didn’t record them before. Thus adding some Salsa and a little bit of Worchester into our Louisiana Hot Sauce.

In addition to the Tucson’s CD release party, other CD release performances across the Greater Ottawa Valley include:

Saturday, August 8 @ The Bent Anchor, Combermere ON

Saturday, August 15 @ The Cove, Westport, 9–11:30 pm; come early and enjoy the Westport Musicfest

Saturday, August 29 @ CoCo Jarrys, Renfrew ON, 9:30 pm –1 am

Friday, September 11 @ Gloucester Royal Oak, Ottawa ON, 7-11 pm

http://www.mumbojumbo.ca/

********************************************************

“Kpanlogo” Night

Community Drumming and Dancing

415C Piccadilly Avenue

Friday, August 14; 7:30-9:30 pm; Adults & Youth $10 per person

To register call (613)725-6994 or email info@baobabtree.org

http://www.baobabtree.org

*******************************************************

AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

********************************************************

Blues Cruise

With Bryan Lee & Jack DeKeyzer

Ottawa River Queen dock

Sunday, August 16; 2-6 pm; $50

Bryan played at the Old Absinthe Bar, on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, for 15 years during the 80s and 90s. This was a gig that went a long way to establish New Orleans as a blues town as well as the granddaddy of jazz. Guitarist and leader of the Jump Street Five Band at the time, Bryan Lee was faithful to his loyal fans and the music. Today Bryan Lee is still going strong, touring across the US, Canada and Europe playing the blues with the Blues Power Band.

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. He performs internationally over 150 shows per year, most recently at Blues Sur Seine in France. 8X Maple Blues and 2003 Juno Award winning artist Jack de Keyzer is a masterful, jazz infused electric blues guitarist, soulful singer and eclectic song writer of the first order.

The boat is located just in front of the Saint François-de-Sales church at the "Quai des Artistes" near Gréber blvd. and Jacques-Cartier in Gatineau Québec.

For further info and ticket outlets, please visit the website at

http://www.bluescruise.ca/2009/info_en.php

********************************************************

SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK

********************************************************

Eddy ‘The Chief’ Clearwater

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, August 14 @ 9:30 pm

Ottawa blues fans are fortunate – Eddy ‘The Chief’ Clearwater will be making a rare appearance in Ottawa, stopping off on his way to his gig at the Donnaconna Blues Festival in Quebec. When I saw Eddy last weekend, he asked me to tell all his Ottawa friends, “Meet me at the Rainbow on August 14!”

Eddy’s 2008 release “West Side Strut”, on the Alligator label, was nominated for a Blues Music Award in the Traditional Blues Recording category. Produced by Ronnie Baker Brooks, it features Lonnie Brooks, Jimmy Johnson, Billy Branch, Otis Clay and Ronnie and is described as “an energized mix of West Side blues and old school rock injected with a tough, up-to-the-minute contemporary edge”.

http://www.eddyclearwater.com/

********************************************************

SOMETHING ENTIRELY DIFFERENT

********************************************************

If you’re looking for something different this summer, this might be it!

The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street,

Thursday, August 13 @ 9:30 pm

With the release of their second EP “The Double EP”, the Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra, Victoria’s legendary gypsy-ska band, is once again breaking genre boundaries in one fell swoop of absolutely filthy, but impeccably-dressed gypsy-ska-folk-grass mayhem!

Driven by an insatiable desire to pull and bind their influences from the roots of a variety of musical cultures, The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra recently spent four months in Europe, touring the
land of their musical influences.

With their new EP, recorded in Vienna last September, and a more developed and matured sound, The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra have been touring North America extensively, including shows in Portland OR, Seattle, WA, gracing the stages of Victoria’s Jazz Fest, Victoria's Ska Fest, Artswell’s Festival, and Toronto’s busking Festival, and are delivering to the crowds what was undeniably in demand throughout Europe!

The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra is Ian Griffiths (accordion, vocals), Paul Wolda (djembe, cajon, vocals), Kurt Loewen (guitar, vocals), Peter Mynett (double bass, vocals), Patrick M'Gonigle (violin, mandolin, vocals).

www.myspace.com/tequilamock

www.ttmo.ca

********************************************************

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS EVERY WEEK

********************************************************

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.

http://bacton.smugmug.com/share/cFoCZfrollzaE

********************************************************
Sunday Blues, 6-9 pm, no cover

Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)

Bands & dates to be confirmed; check out their new website

http://www.atomicrooster.ca

********************************************************

Open Blues/Rock jam

Le Petit Chicago in Hull Centre-Town, 50 Portage Street

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

********************************************************

Jesse Greene Band

Irene’s, 885 Bank Street

Every Sunday night, 9 pm

Sunday, August 2, Jesse’s taking the week off, but the rest of the band will be there.

Jesse Greene and band perform live at Irene's every Sunday night. Blues/jazz originals rock, funk, folk, R&B, don't miss out! This is a kick-ass band. Jesse is an amazing guitarist and songwriter. Bluesfest performances, and shows with her other two bands Jokko and Frank and Jesse James have really started to turn heads and win hearts. But this is by far the best yet!
Drums - Jason Cote; Guitar - Luke Donovan & Jesse Greene; Harp - Marc Seguin; Bass - Dan Grewal.

http://www.myspace.com/thejessegreeneband

********************************************************

FESTIVALS THIS WEEK

********************************************************

August 12-16, 2009

12th FestiBlues Internationale de Montréal

Parc Ahuntsic, Montreal QC

www.festiblues.com

August 13-16 2009

4th Donnacona au Rhythme du Blues

Donnacona QC

www.donnaconablues.com

August 14-16, 2009

Salmon Arm Roots & Blues Festival

Salmon Arm BC

www.rootsandblues.ca

********************************************************

LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH

********************************************************

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.

www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin

********************************************************

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).

http://rivercityjunction.com/

********************************************************

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

********************************************************

AREA HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH

********************************************************

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!

********************************************************

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.

********************************************************

SPECIAL EVENTS COMING SOON

********************************************************

MonkeyJunk

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, August 21 @ 9:30 pm

Playing their original style of swamp boogie R&B, bedroom funk and love songs that will break your heart, MonkeyJunk is Tony D on guitar, slide guitar and vocals; Steve Marriner on vocals, guitar, baritone guitar and harmonica and Matt Sobb on drums, cymbals, percussion and background vocals. These three musicians apply a combined 56 years of experience in the music business to entertain in a raw and captivating manner you will not soon forget . . . see for yourself!

myspace.com/monkeyjunkottawa

Check out the new MonkeyJunk website at http://www.monkeyjunkband.com

********************************************************

Blues Open Stage

Branch Restaurant, 15 Clothier St E, Kemptville ON

Sunday, August 23, 3-6 pm

George Buys is hosting a Blues open stage at the Branch restaurant in Kemptville ON Sunday August 23, from 3-6 pm. George says ``It is kind of Acoustic but arrangements could be made.``

All are welcome!

********************************************************

Jumpin’ Johnny Sansone

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday & Saturday, August 28-29 @ 9:30 pm

Johnny’s most recent release, “Poor Man's Paradise” was nominated for Song of the Year at the 2008 Blues Music Awards. He has also been busy with music for movies and television. As a member of the Voice of the Wetlands All-Stars, he performed at both the Democratic and Republican National Conventions last year. Rumour has it a new release is in the works. Johnny’s visits to Ottawa have become less frequent, so you need to take this opportunity to see him at the Rainbow during the last weekend in August.

http://www.johnnysansone.com/

*******************************************************

SUMMER BLUES

… ON THE RIDEAU & ST. LAWRENCE

*********************************************************

An exciting new Summer Blues Series is being launched this July and August at 3 great waterfront venues in the beautiful, historic Rideau/St. Lawrence region of eastern Ontario – now a UNESCO World Heritage Site unesco.org/en/list All are Dinner, Show & Dance Fundraisers featuring some of Canada’s best blues artists performing LIVE – the same formula used for the successful Blues On The Rideau Series @ The Cove Inn, Westport for the past 4 years that has raised over $23,000 for local charities. The goal is to raise $2,500 for local charities from these 3 shows this summer.

SMITHS FALLS:

Dinner & Show in a big tent adjacent to the restaurant

ANGELO'S RESTAURANT

60 Lombard St beside the Detached Lock, Rideau Canal

Friday, August 14; 7-11 pm

Proceeds to: Smiths Falls Food Bank

From Hamilton: STEVE STRONGMAN BAND http://www.stevestrongman.com

2008 Maple Blues Award nominee for Guitarist Of The Year, 2007 nominee for Best New Artist Of The Year – one of the fasting rising stars on the Canadian Blues scene

Tickets: $55 (taxes included). Advance reservations required. Call (613) 283-0512

PRESCOTT: CANCELLED

Dinner & Show in a big tent in front of the Pub

THE RED GEORGE PUB

197 Water St. W overlooking the St. Lawrence

Sunday, August 23; 6-10 pm

Proceeds to: St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival

From Toronto: JOHNNY MAX BAND http://www.johnnymaxband.com

2008 Juno Award nominee for Blues Album Of The Year, 2008 Maple Blues Award nominee for Recording Of The Year, Songwriter Of The Year & Electric Act Of The Year

Tickets: $55 (tax included). Advance reservations required. Call (613) 925-8800

For more info contact:

James Doran, Choose The Blues Productions

www.choosetheblues.ca

james@choosetheblues.ca

*********************************************************

GLENGARRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

********************************************************

The Glengarry Music Festival takes place in 2BEANS IN A BARN, a typical country barn that has been transformed into a unique 90 seat performance Room. The performance schedule consists of 4 evening performances with an exquisite dinner in the barn and 4 luncheon performances alfresco in the sunshine. We are half way between Montreal and Ottawa. Lots of free parking and accommodations close by.

5. KAREN YOUNG

SATURDAY AUGUST 22

STARRY NIGHTS DINNER - $45
The range of her voice appears to have no limit, and her penchant for changes of rhythm and atmosphere is fascinating. The merging of two musical universes and two generations of artists, Karen Young and Éric Auclair reinvent the classic bass / voice duo and offer their personal vision of electrojazz. Felix award for Ame, Corps et Desir, best classic vocal album in 2008. Prix Hommage (career award), for the remarkable quality of her work and her contribution to Quebec's culture.
MENU 1. Onion-Braised Beef Brisket 2. Chicken Kiev 3. vegetarian meal available upon request

6. STEPHEN BARRY & ANDREW COWAN

SATURDAY AUGUST 30

LUNCHEON ALFRESCO - $35

Having driven every road, North, South, East, and West in the province of Quebec, Stephen, Andrew, and the band have also toured Brazil, France and the USA. Stephen Barry was named Best Blues Bassist in 2002 at Toronto's Maple Blues Awards and received the « Lys Blues Hommage » in 2004. His band also won Best Blues Group in Canada from The Jazz Report in 1996. Stephen and Andrew are no strangers to Alexandria, having played at The Atlantic numerous times with Terry Gillespie as members of The Granary Band.
MENU 1. Chicken Marsala 2. Santa Fe Pork 3. vegetarian meal available upon request

7. RAY BONNEVILLE

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19

STARRY NIGHTS DINNER - $45
Bonneville is a distinctive artist, a man who cooks up a deep groove, blending a unique percussive electric guitar style, and weathered voice into provoking songs that can be believed. Honing his craft for the last 30 years, Bonneville's gritty storytelling and deep-grooving blues style has won him much critical attention. In 1999, Ray won the prestigious Juno Award for his third album “Gust of Wind”. His fourth release, “Rough Luck”, was also nominated for the coveted award
MENU 1. Roasted Lemon Chicken 2. Cider-Baked Ham 3. vegetarian meal available upon request

8. JOHNNY MAX TRIO

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27

LUNCHEON ALFRESCO - $35
Johnny is a soulful singer whose respect, and passion for all types of music is evident. He is also a brilliant entertainer who has audiences thoroughly enjoying each show. 2008 Juno Award Nomination Blues Album of the year - “A Lesson I've Learned”; 3 Maple Blues Award Nominations for the Johnny Max
Band!!! 2007 Recording of the Year - “A Lesson I've Learned”; 2007 Songwriter of the Year - Martin Alex Aucoin & Johnny Max; 2007 Electric Act of the Year - Johnny Max.
MENU 1. Barbecued Pork 2. Chicken Piccata 3. vegetarian meal available upon request

Tickets now on Sale ­only seats 90 in an up-close and intimate setting – think Hugh's Room, Le Hibou, House-party!
Some of our best Canadian talent and favourite international guests.

Artists:
http://www.ashleymacleod.com
http://www.karenyoung.org
http://www.myspace.com/stephenbarryband
http://www.raybonneville.com
http://www.johnnymaxband.com

FESTIVAL STAFF
Producer and Publicist, Kathy Gillespie ­ kathy@teka.ca
You can get info or purchase tickets directly from Kathy using mastercard or visa at: Festival hot-line: 613-678-5862 or on-line (see below).
Artistic Director, Terry Gillespie - terry@terrygillespie.ca
Chef, Kasey Rogers, 2Beans Café - kasey_rogers@yahoo.com
Menu & Venue queries should be directed to Kasey: 613-525-1466
Director of Operations, Paul Gamache - gamachepl@yahoo.com
Director of Communications & Sponsorship, Barbara Dragone ­dragones@sympatico.ca
Please call Barbara, 613-525-414, if you wish to be a sponsor for the Glengarry Music Festival. Any assistance would be appreciated to help us maintain recession-busting prices.

FESTIVAL URLS
http://www.glengarrymusicfestival.com Tickets and info available here
http://www.terrygillespie.ca Tickets and info available here
http://www.2beanscafe.com Chef¹s Café
http://www.glengarrymusicfestival.com Artist info, menu descriptions, map, etc.

********************************************************

CKCU OTTAWA FOLK FESTIVAL

*******************************************************

CKCU Ottawa Folk Festival, Britannia Park

Friday, August 21 – Sunday, August 23

“Dig Your Roots” is the 2009 slogan for this year`s Ottawa Folk Festival. The slogan refers not only to the music at the Festival, but also to the fact that this year’s Festival will have a major Gardening theme. Under the skilled guidance of long-time Ottawa Folk Festival performer Ana Miura, the Festival will offer a rich array of garden-related activities, discussions and musically-themed events throughout the weekend.

Here are some of the bluesier and blues-related offerings:

Digging Roots

Saturday, August 22 - Main Stage @ 5:30 pm

Digging Roots is out on the road again, promoting the release of their highly anticipated album entitled, “We Are”. The band is set to perform at the CKCU Ottawa Folk Festival in Britannia Park in Ottawa which takes place on Friday August 21st, 2009 till Sunday August, 23, 2009. More information about set times can be found online at www.ottawafolk.org

After three years of touring in Canada, the US and Europe, Digging Roots decided it was time to get back in the studio and record a select few of the 40 plus songs they had in the store house since their last recording in 2006. So, in spring 2008 they rented a little cabin on the water, gathered their friends and allies and held up a recording studio arranging, recording and putting final touches on the new studio album.

Still playing tube-electrified acoustic guitars, Kanatakta's chops really shine through the new recording from minimalist melodies, to searing blues inspired slide guitar to epic Zeppelin-esque solos. Kanatakta sets himself apart from the pack with the fluidity of his musical ideas, playing with references to his influences (think, Hendrix meets Son House meets Derek Trucks) while still shaping an entirely original sound.

Digging Roots released “We Are” in June 2009 and are out on the road with their backing rhythm section and new addition, DJ Jesus Parlange, who brings sub bass tones and time-stretched rattles that shake the ground.

http://www.diggingrootsmusic.com/

Ellen McIlwaine

Sunday, August 23 – Main Stage @ 6 pmEllen grew up in Japan, played boogie-woogie piano at the age of five, then moved on to acoustic, then electric guitar. She moved back to North America and, in the late 70s, toured in an electric power trio format and recorded an award-winning rock album, “Everybody Needs It”. Her multi-cultural influences, her unique style of slide guitar, playing bass lines against driving rhythms and singing lead guitar lines, along with her powerfully moving vocals and scatting acrobatics had by this time earned her legendary cult status. She toured, and toured, and toured – through the 80s and 90s – and in the late 90s created movie scores. In 2003 she returned to acoustic guitar and she continues to tour solo acoustic as well as in her Power Trio format. In 2009, she has been a professional musician for 44 years! She is currently working on her autobiography and experimenting with new material.

http://www.ellenmcilwaine.com/

Mr. Something Something

Friday, August 21 – Dance Tent @ 5:30 pm

Sunday, August 23 – Dance Tent @ 9:30 pm

A little something for the body, a little something for the mind: your soundtrack to a joyful revolution. Mr. Something Something represents four years of composing, performing, risk-taking, improving and ultimately mobilizing the original vision of founding members Larry Graves [drums/percussion] and John MacLean [saxophone/voice]. Twenty years of playing, studying and traveling passed before these two childhood friends settled on the unbeatable dance rhythms of Nigeria, Senegal, Mali and Ghana as the most natural gathering place for the elements that would ultimately make up the Mr. Something Something sound.

Western instruments and concepts of improvisation are explored and layered over what used to be called Afrobeat; but the term strains to contain the innovations happening in the rhythm section at every show. It also fails to express in fiery-enough terms the imaginative solo work of respected jazz guitarist Paul MacDougall. Liam Smith dependably delivers basslines designed to induce and sustain a state of ecstatic dancing. And there is always inspiration to be drawn from mesmerizing on-stage dancer/choreographer Jennifer Dallas. The horn section strikes with power and uplifts with melody. And above it all, acting as a lightning rod, is the lyric statement of the case for change and consciousness, passionately delivered by electrifying frontman Johan Hultqvist.

Aside from wildly energized and unpredictable live shows, the band is becoming increasingly well-known for its green politics and environmental activism. The group did a number of “eco-dates” in 2007, playing a wind-powered show and performing in such unconventional venues as organic farms and food co-ops to highlight communities that are trying to minimize their ecological footprints.

http://www.mrsomethingsomething.com/

Michael Jerome Brown

Saturday, August 22 – Dance Tent @ 8 pm

Born in South Bend, Indiana in 1960, Michael is the son of English professors whose love of music and poetry inspired them to take their nine year old son to the great jazz, blues and folk clubs in their adopted home of Montreal. The Globe and Mail calls him “an immensely gifted multi‑instrumentalist and singer“. http://www.michaeljeromebrowne.com/

Cajun Dance Lesson with Jody Benjamin

Saturday, August 22 – Hall Stage @ 8 pm

then

Saturday Night Cajun Dance Party

Saturday, August 22 – Dance Tent @ 9 pm

Featuring Ball & Chain and the Wreckers, Christine Balfa & Dirk Powell & Jesse Legé

Ball and Chain choose their material from an unusual and diverse pool of music. Jody has been a fan of old-time country for many years and has twenty years experience as a dancer and choreographer. Her exercise dance class is well known in Ottawa for her excellent choice of music and fun fitness program. Michael comes from the Montreal music scene and Danielle Martineau's band, Rockabayou ... the Cajun connection! Together Michael and Jody have nurtured a growing interest in the music of Southwest Louisiana and made many trips there to study, play and dance in the music halls and houses of Cajun country. Country music and Cajun music are related … like hillbilly cousins that look alike and finish each other's sentences. Remember the Louisiana Hayride of the 50's? The combination of tunes and styles that become Ball and Chain's repertoire make sense together. At any live show you could hear songs by Hank Williams next to Denis McGee next to John Hiatt or June Carter. Michael and Jody give Cajun dance lessons as part of the evening's fun.

www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin

Christine Balfa grew up playing triangle with her father Dewey and absorbed music and language from the thriving culture around Basile, Louisiana. Her singing is full of the raw emotion that enables the best Cajun singers to communicate powerful feelings directly to the heart. Dirk Powell, Christine’s husband, plays accordion and fiddle in Balfa Toujours. He’s a winner of the prestigious Mulate’s accordion contest, and his instruction video for the instrument has become a classic.

http://www.folkloreproductions.com/BalfaToujours.html

http://www.folkloreproductions.com/DirkPowell.html

Jesse Lége is one of the most admired Cajun accordionists and vocalists from Southwest Louisiana. Beginning with Cajun accordion at age 16, Jesse has been playing traditional Cajun music for over 35 years with a variety of bands in various Louisiana dancehalls. In 1998 he was inducted into the Cajun Music Hall of Fame.

http://www.cajunzydeco.net/JL/

Ray Bonneville

Friday, August 21 – Hall Stage @ 7:30 pm

Ray Bonneville is a distinctive artist, a man who cooks up a deep groove, blending a unique percussive electric guitar style, a weathered voice, and soulful rack harmonica into image provoking songs that can be believed. His thumb pulses and thumps, his index finger hooks and brushes out a melody, and his hand slaps the guitar for a snare-like effect. He sometimes uses a slide, always plays through a Fender tube amp, and brings his foot down on an amplified piece of plywood on the floor for added percussion. It is a powerful and visceral sound with a lot of forward momentum.

http://www.raybonneville.com

*******************************************************

BLUES IN KINGSTON

********************************************************

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.

********************

Regular 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

Agent Blue

RCHA Club, 193 Ontario St. (big blue door), Kingston ON

First Saturday of each month; early start 8 pm

**********

For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society

www.kingstonbluessociety.ca

*******************************************************

LIMESTONE CITY BLUES FESTIVAL NEWS

********************************************************

Limestone City Blues Festival Bracelets On Sale Now!

The Limestone City Blues Festival will once again bring Downtown Kingston alive with the sounds of

the blues August 27, 28, 29 & 30, 2009.

Bracelets are now on sale at several locations. The $10 bracelet is good for all the outdoor concerts and

participating venues over the four day festival. Bracelet purchasers also receive a $10 blues bracelet

good for $10 off at participating locations. Bracelets are available at Indigo Books and Music, Kingston

Guitar Shop, and the Visitor Information Centre.

This year’s festival, the 13th annual, will open for the first time ever with a “sure to be sensational”

concert featuring The Robert Cray Band with very special guest Mavis Staples at the K-Rock Centre

on Thursday, August 27.

Confederation Park concerts will feature Canadians Jack de Keyzer and Jerome Godboo at 7pm.

Friday night the sounds of Delta Highway will fill The Hub on the Princess Street (at Barrie) stage.

Opening for Delta Highway is Elyssa Mahoney and Lucas Haneman Band.

Shemekia Copeland will headline the Springer Market Square stage Saturday night. Opening for her

will be Fathead from Toronto and from Nova Scotia, Garrett Mason.

This year promises to be a “not to be missed” presentation of blues greatness! The heat will be turned

up this year as we present more than a dozen participating venues with more than 50 shows (= over 100

hours of programming) – three afternoons of concerts in Confederation Park, live blues nightly in over a

dozen downtown clubs, restaurants and cafes as well as Saturday and Sunday Brunch Blues.

The festival is proudly sponsored by K-Rock 105.7fm, Celebrate Ontario, OLG Presents Music and Sir

Gawain Fashion Clothes.

Please see www.downtownkingston.ca for all the details.

********************************************************

Limestone City Blues Festival

Opening Night Concert

K-Rock Centre, Kingston ON

Thursday, August 27; tickets $35

For the first time ever, an opening night concert for the Limestone City Blues Festival will be held at the K-Rock Centre, Thursday August 27; it will feature Blues & guitar legend Robert Cray with special guest star, blues & gospel legend Mavis Staples.

Robert Cray has won five Grammys and been nominated for 11 more; “Showdown”, his 1985 collaboration with Albert Collins and Johnny Copeland is considered to be one of the greatest blues albums of all time. In 1986 Cray won six W.C. Handy Awards (American Blues awards), 1987 saw his album release “Strong Persuader” reach #13 in the U.S. Billboard 200 chart.

For over fifty years, Mavis Staples has been an American treasure, working her vocal magic on the highways and byways of gospel, folk and soul music, with both her family group, the Staple Singers, and as a solo artist in her own right.

Tickets for this concert only are $35 and can be purchased either online at www.k-rockcentre.com, by phone at 1-877-KLIVE99 or at the Box Office.

For info, www.kingstonblues.com

*******************************************************

PETERBOROUGH SUMMER BLUES SERIES

*******************************************************

Peterborough Summer Blues Series

Holiday Inn, Gazebo Patio, 150 George St, Peterborough ON

Every Friday @ 6 pm; $5.00

Aug 14- Erin McCallum

Aug 21- The Fabulous Tonemasters

Aug 28- Treasa Levasseur

Sept 4- Jack deKeyzer

For info or tickets, contact www.holidayinn.com/waterfront

705-743-1144 or 1-866-258-5181

*******************************************************

UPCOMING SUMMER FESTIVALS

*******************************************************

August 20-23, 2009

Summertime Blues

Diana Krall Plaza, Nanaimo BC

www.nanaimobluesfestival.com

August 21-23, 2009

CKCU Ottawa Folk Festival
Britannia Park, Ottawa ON

www.ottawafolk.org

August 21-23, 2009

11th Edmonton Labatt Blues Festival

Hawrelak Park, Edmonton AB

www.bluesinternationalltd.com

August 27-29, 2009

Lachute en Blues

Lachute QC

www.lachuteenblues.com

August 27-30, 2009

13th Limestone Blues Festival
Kingston ON
www.kingstonblues.com

********************************************************

BLUES ON THE RADIO

********************************************************

On CKCU-FM 93.1

The Mighty 93.1

www.ckcufm.com

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.

**********

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, August 12 – Guelph Jazz Festival: A preview of the artists appearing at the Guelph Jazz Festival between September 9 and September 13, including Jane Bunnett, Jean Derome, Lori Freedman, Joelle Leandre & the World Saxophone Quartet.

Next week, August 19 – Guelph Jazz Festival: A preview of the artists appearing at the Guelph Jazz Festival between September 9 and September 13, including Jane Bunnett, Marilyn Crispell, Jean Derome, Lori Freedman, Joelle Leandre & the World Saxophone Quartet

**********

On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM

Saturdays: 10 pm – midnight

Saturday Night Blues

www.cbc.ca/snb

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.

NOTE: Beginning July 4, Saturday Night Blues will be broadcast twice on Saturday – once on CBC 2 103.3 from 6-8 pm and then later on CBC 1 (91.5 in Ottawa) from 10 pm to midnight.

(Thanks to Jim Roy for this info.)

**********

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).

********************************************************

WEEKLY EVENTS ON THE SMALL SCREEN

********************************************************

ALWAYS check local listings to confirm.

On BRAVO – www.bravo.ca

Tuesday, August 11 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

Heart & Soul/Johnny Rawls (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 musician Johnny Rawls.

Tuesday, August 18 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

Diamond Days/Eric Bibb (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 musician Eric Bibb.

Tuesday, August 25 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster (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 performer Ruthie Foster.

Tuesday, September 1 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

Salty Sessions/Hot Toddy (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 the band Hot Toddy.

Tuesday, September 1 @ 8 am – Talkin’ Blues

Curtis Salgado (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features words and music from blues/soul singer Curtis Salgado, who served as the inspiration for John Belushi's Blues Brothers character.

Monday, September 7 @ 9 am – Montreal Jazz Festival

Funk Brothers (2004): Captivating performances from some of the acclaimed artists who appeared at the city's famed celebration of music. This episode features the architects of the Motown sound, with guests Joan Osbourne, jacksoul and Sam Moore.

Tuesday, September 8 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

Nothing Halfway, Rick Fines & Susie Vinnick (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 Rick Fines and Suzie Vinnick.

Tuesday, September 8 @ 8 am – Talkin’ Blues

Sonny Landreth (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features a profile of soulful Louisiana vocalist and slide-guitar virtuoso Sonny Landreth.

********************************************************

WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONTH

********************************************************

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

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

Sundays: Jesse Greene Band @ Irene’s, 9 pm

********************************************************

LOCALS LOOK AHEAD

********************************************************

Friday, August 21

Tempus Fugitives @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

MonkeyJunk @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

Saturday, August 22

Al Tambay & friends @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

********************************************************

*******************************************************

No comments: