*******************************************************
JESSE GREENE BAND in the IBC FINALS
*******************************************************
Following two great performances Thursday and Friday nights in their assigned venue, the Hard Rock Café, the Jesse Greene Band, representing the Ottawa Blues Society, were the only Canadians among the 11 bands advancing to the finals of the 26th International Blues Challenge. This year’s entry was over 100 bands. It was a thrill for the band to perform on the stage of the legendary Orpheum Theatre and we at the Ottawa Blues Society are very proud of them. This is the 2nd year the OBS has sent a representative to the band competition at the IBC and the 2nd year our band has made the finals.
The top prize in the Band competition was awarded to Grady Champion of the Mississippi Delta Blues Society of Indianola. Second place honours were earned by Karen Lovely Band, Cascade Blues Association, and the third spot went to Cheryl Renee with Them Bones, hailing from the Cincy Blues Society.
The other Band finalists were: Mojo Theory (Pomeroy Blues & Jazz Society); R&K Brew Co (West Virginia Blues Society); Big Boy Little Band (DC Blues Society); Sonny Moorman Group (Columbus Blues Alliance); Jesse Greene Band (Ottawa Blues Society); Jackie Scott & the Housewreckers (Baltimore Blues Society); Labron Lazenby and LA 3 (Smoky Mountain Blues Society); and The Avey Brothers (Iowa Blues Societies).
A beautiful blue custom Gibson guitar featuring The Blues Foundation's logo was awarded to Matt Kelly of the Big Boy Little Band (DC Blues Society), as the finals top guitarist.
Canadian Matt Andersen, sponsored by Harvest Jazz and Blues from Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada won the Solo/Duo competition; second place honours went to Alphonso Sanders and Bill "Howl-n-Madd" Perry from Mississippi's Crossroads Blues Society. Ottawa did not have an entry in the Solo/Duo competition.
The other solo duo finalists were: Becky Boyd & Tim Matson (Cleveland Blues Society); Jimi Lee with PB Shane (Austin Blues Society); Sherman Lee Dillon (Central Mississippi Blues Society); Tom Walbank & Arthur Migliazza (Southern Arizona Blues Heritage Foundation); Ken "The Rocket" Korb (Long Island Blues Society); and Steve Cohen (Grafton Blues Association).
*******************************************************
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE
MAPLE BLUES AWARDS WINNERS
*******************************************************
Legendary bluesman Son House is quoted as saying “I'm talking about the blues now, I ain't talkin' about no monkey junk”. Such was not the case at the 13th annual Maple Blues Awards, held at Koerner Hall in Toronto. Ottawa based blues band Monkey Junk were the big winners with five awards, including Entertainer of the Year, Electric Act of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year (Steve Marriner), Guitarist of the Year (Tony D) and Harmonica Player of the Year (Steve Marriner).
Musician Ken Whiteley presented Chris Whiteley & Diana Braithwaite with the SOCAN Songwriter of the Year award. Chris Whiteley was the also winner of both the Horn Player of the Year award and the Blues With a Feeling Award. Toronto’s Blackburn were awarded the New Artist of the Year. The late Jeff Healey’s “Songs From the Road” won Recording of the Year, presented to producer Alec Fraser, who recently recovered from a serious illness. Fraser also took home the Bassist of the Year award. A stunning performance with the Maple Blues Band from Harry Manx followed his win for Acoustic Act of the Year.
Saskatchewan native Suzie Vinnick picked up female vocalist of the year and also presented, along with Toronto Blues Society president Derek Andrews, the Blues Booster Award to DAWG FM's Ed Torres. DAWG FM will launch the nation's first all blues radio service in Ottawa this June.
A celebration of Canadian blues music; the Maple Blues Awards is Canada’s only National blues awards program. Its goal is to promote blues music across Canada, and to recognize outstanding achievement in the field.
For a full list of 2010 Maple Blues Award Winners – http://www.torontobluessociety.com/mba/winners.htm
(Thanks to Sarah French, Sarah French Publicity and Time Des Islets, Toronto Blues Society)
********************************************************
SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK
********************************************************
Colin James
NAC, 53 Elgin Street
Sunday, January 31 @ 8 pm
Colin James has juggled his skills as a singer, guitarist and big-band leader so well over the years that diversity seems almost synonymous with his stellar career. He’s also been a restless voyager, traversing genres from blues and rock to pop and swing and back again. Throughout it all, Colin has always forged ahead, without regard to fads or trends, going wherever his wandering muse takes him.
*******************************************************
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
********************************************************
Ball & Chain
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Friday, January 29
Ottawa’s own Ball and Chain choose their material from an unusual and diverse pool of music, from old‑time country to Cajun/Southwest Louisiana. At any show you could hear songs by Hank Williams next to Denis McGee next to John Hiatt or June Carter.
A real treat – this show will feature Al Bragg on pedal steel.
*******************************************************
AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
*******************************************************
Terry Gillespie & full bandVankleek Hill Winter CarnivalBeau's All Natural Brewery, Terry Fox Drive, Vankleek Hill ON Tuesday, January 26 @ 7 pm; $10 http://www.beaus.ca ********************************************************
The MarigoldsBlack Sheep Inn, Wakefield QCSunday, January 31 @ 4 pm; tickets $15 advance (at the Folklore Centre), $20 at the door It's usually Vancouver that's the subject of envy for early blooms. But January 31 will see an early crop of Marigolds at the legendary Black Sheep Inn in Wakefield, Quebec near Ottawa.
These Marigolds are a roots-music supergroup in full bloom, with their second CD "That's the state I'm in" just out in November. The new CD, produced by award-winning producer Steve Dawson, features 14 songs written by all three Marigolds working alone and together. The Black Sheep Inn matinee will launch the CD in this area following a wildly successful launch concert at Hugh's Room in Toronto.
Each member of the Marigolds -- Caitlin Hanford, Gwen Swick, and Suzie Vinnick – would be worth listening to on her own. But together, the three bring a crop of beautifully arranged harmonies and finely-crafted songs to the stage with the sort of seemingly-effortless show that can only be delivered by seasoned veterans of the music scene.
http://www.myspace.com/marigoldsmusic
*******************************************************
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.
Special guests:
January 28 – Jed Rached
February 4 – Jeff Hagerman
February 11 – Vince Halfhide
February 18 – Terry Gillespie
February 25 – Dr. Dave
http://bacton.smugmug.com/share/cFoCZfrollzaE
********************************************************
Sunday Blues, 6-9 pm, no cover
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)
********************************************************
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
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
*******************************************************
LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
********************************************************
Open Blues Jam
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
2nd Sunday of each month, 4-7 pm; cover $5 (jammers free)
Hosted by Smokestack Lightning, the jam is open to all ages.
http://www.myspace.com/landonsblues
********************************************************
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).
********************************************************
Blues Jam
Avant- Garde Bar & Restaurant, 135½ 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, 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
********************************************************
Anthony Gomes & the New Soul Cowboys
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Tuesday, February 2 @ 9 pm; cover $10
Saddle up with New Soul Cowboys as the rowdy Nashville power trio has arrived to lay down the law; to serve and uphold the virtues of Rock ‘N’ Roll. Singer/guitarist Anthony Gomes, bassist David Karns and
drummer Peter Lang have set out to leave their indelible mark on music by forging a brand all their own. The trio’s soul sonic force delivers the rough and tumble swagger of rock while having the audacity to blend in the distinctive sounds of whiskey-soaked roadhouse Blues and southern-fried power Country. “If you haven’t heard,” Gomes proclaims, “there’s a new Sherriff in town.”
New Soul Cowboys describe their sound as Outlaw Rock ‘N’ Roll. “Anyone that is a musical badass has been an outlaw in their genre, living outside of conventional rules,” states Gomes. “We have created a sound that embodies the rebel spirit of musical outcasts like Led Zeppelin, Johnny Cash and Howlin’ Wolf. We’re here to take back Rock ‘N’ Roll,” the guitar-slinger boldly but unapologetically exclaims. “We are part of a new music revolution in rock. A place where bands know where the music came from, can really play their instruments, write their own songs and take no prisoners doing it. We couldn’t
care less about American Idol, we’re here to take our music to the streets.”
http://www.myspace.com/newsoulcowboys
http://www.newsoulcowboys.com/
********************************************************
Rocket Rached & the Fat City 8
Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street
Thursday & Friday, February 4-5; Cover $5
This recording has been a long time coming! After a 4 year hiatus, Rocket Rached & the Fat City 8 rocked a packed house on July 13, 2009 at the Elmdale House Tavern and sounded like they hadn’t missed a beat!
Rocket Rached & the Fat City 8 were formed back in the mid-90s. The band was a regular weekly event on Thursdays at the Rainbow Bistro for 7 years. Over the years, almost all of Ottawa’s blues luminaries have played with Fat City from Tony D, Trevor Finlay, Sue Foley and Steve Marriner, as well, players from Canada’s blues community … David Gogo and the late Jeff Healey to name a few. International stars on the list include Otis Grand and members of Roomful of Blues.
Rocket Rached and Fat City 8 have played across the country and played the Ottawa Bluesfest for 8 years straight as well as other festivals. They have also opened for Duke Robillard, Junior Wells, Roomful of Blues and the highlight of the 1998 Bluesfest – opening for Ray Charles.
The Rocket Man “Jed Rached” is a passionate bluesman. A founding member of the Ottawa Blues Society, as well as one of 2 hosts of the ‘Midweek Blues’, a weekly blues radio show that was on CHUO 89.1 fm for 21 years.
The time has come to capture the high energy show and talent on CD to share with all of Fat City’s fans. We want to invite everyone down to the show to be part of this recording. Appearing with fat city will be some of Ottawa’s finest musicians, including Steve Marriner, Tony D and Matt Sobb (multiple Maple Blues Award winners), Andrea Karam and Scott Doubt.
********************************************************
Julian Fauth
Tweedsmuir Tavern, Tweed ON
Friday, February 5
and
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, February 6
Julian Fauth’s Juno-winning CD, “Ramblin’ Son” contains 18 songs, most originals, and has received rave reviews here at home and in Britain and the US. Julian is competing in the Solo/Duo component of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN, representing the Grand River Blues Society. Accompanying Julian for these shows will be Bob Vespaziani on the drums. Those two cats have been playing together for a long time and have a very tight act.
Here’s what Electro-Fi’s Andrew Galloway says:
“He's one of a kind, Julian.... It's like he's from another time, he's such a student of the blues. He kind of takes all the pieces of the puzzle and he puts it back together in a way that's much different than anyone else…. He does something that is virtually impossible to do, which is to take old style blues traditions, and not mimic it, but to combine that with his own original voice and lyricism, and it's just magical. It's a foot in the future and a foot in the past."
********************************************************
George Buys
The Branch, Kemptville ON
Saturday, February 6, 8:30 – 11:30 pm
********************************************************
65 Roses Gala
With JW-Jones
Hampton Inn Conference Centre, 200 Coventry Road
Monday, February 8 @ 5:30 pm; $125 per ticket
This year is a very special year and marks the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s 50th Anniversary! Please join us as we celebrate Hope Made Through Progress!
The 65 Roses Gala is the highlight event of the year when our Foundation, along with our partner the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club, event sponsors, national partners, community leaders, supporters and donors all come together with one goal in mind – to breathe life into the future for young Canadians battling cystic fibrosis!
This inspiring evening is hosted by Max Keeping and 65 Roses Celebrity Chair, Shean Donovan, along with other members of the Ottawa Senators organization in attendance!
JW-Jones will be providing the music and reports that “… two amazing boys battling this condition are (most likely) going to be joining us on stage for a tune. A young guitarist and drummer with some new-found blues chops (oh yea baby) ... and they are talented little dudes! I am so excited that they've found music as a positive outlet.”
Please support this event - all proceeds go towards the continued research for CF.
AND IT'S FUN!!
If you can't attend, perhaps you can donate an auction item or make a financial gift donation.
http://www.senators65roses.com/galaMain.html
********************************************************
The 11th edition of Virée Blues Boreale presents
“Carte Blanche to Ricky Paquette”
Le Petit Chicago, 50 Promenade du Portage (in the Old Hull sector)
Wednesday, February 10 @ 8 pm
As some may have heard, we are launching the 11th edition of Virée Blues Boreale with a concept-type show featuring Ricky Paquette and guests.
http://www.rickypaquette.com/Bio.html
The big news is where will this 11th edition take place? You all remember that since Le Troquet and the 2008 events, Virée Blues Boreale was left a wanderer. As requested by the new owners of Le Petit Chicago as well as discussions with our partners at Club Addiction, we all agreed to keep Virée Blues Boreale on the road; so Virée Blues Boreale will keep on changing venue for its various editions, among places that will show interest in greeting you and Virée Blues Boreale. This is but a minor realignment within our partnership with Club Addiction, a major venue of the Old Hull sector, renowned for its comedy shows and we expect to return there for some of our future special events.
The cosy and warm rustic atmosphere of Le Petit Chicago falls within one of Virée Blues Boreale’s major goals which is to revive the most positive elements of “Le Petit Chicago of Yesteryear” style, this hardly told part of our town’s history, the history of a very lively downtown, of international renown (even if sometimes for the wrong reasons) and where prestigious artists such as Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, today’s legends, came to perform.
www.myspace.com/vireeblues
********************************************************
Sharrie Williams
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Thursday, February 11
Born and raised in the projects of Saginaw, Michigan, Sharrie grew up surrounded by music and singing her entire childhood. She teamed up with The WiseGuys in 1997, and began appearing regularly at Chicago’s renowned Blues Clubs such as Kingston Mines and Buddy Guy’s Legends.
Sharrie Williams and The Wiseguys traveled to Europe and by 2004 had toured Holland, France, Italy the Netherlands, Spain, Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Canada and Great Britain.
In April 2004 Sharrie released “Hard Drivin’ Woman” on the German label Crosscut Records. Word spread back to the US about her captivating performances and rock solid recording. She performed at US festivals including the Chicago Blues Festival and the Pocono Blues Festival soon thereafter. Her CD sales at the Pocono Blues Festival were at the top of sales records for this storied event, a major contributor in introducing her to the American blues market.
Sharrie’s unique style of ‘Rockin’ Gospel Blues’ is surrounded by strong and powerful vocals and arrangements, with songs that grab your soul, like ‘Hard Drivin’ Woman’, ‘Travellin’’ and ‘Blues Lover’. Sharrie touches souls with her talent and passion for her music, combined with her smoky, sexy and imitable style she always leaves her audience calling for one more song. She emerges with grace as a humble and rock solid professional, a talented songstress that stands on her own. In January 2007, Sharrie signed a recording contract with Electro-Fi Records and “I’m Here to Stay” was released in 2007. Sharrie and the Band have been touring extensively throughout the USA and Europe in support of this release.
http://www.sharriewilliams.com/
********************************************************
Terry Gillespie
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Friday, February 12 @ 9:45 pm; $10
Roots Music with a full different band and the debut of the TNT Drummers! Terry Gillespie accompanied by Terry Owen and featuring the TNT Drummers!
The TNT Drummers are Master Drummers, Wayne Stoute and Jeffery Grosvenor accompanied by Jacthin Boucher. No traps all hand-drums! This show was first performed at the Trudeau Family christening and now is available for public pleasure. Come out and see something completely unique & totally enjoyable in roots music.
http://www.terrygillespie.ca/ ********************************************************
The Mighty Popo
Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield, QC
Saturday, February 13
You could say that the Mighty Popo is a Rwandan/Burundian refugee/survivor whose music is steeped in African tradition, but you’d hardly be getting at the whole story of one of Canada’s greatest rising stars. As much as Popo has inherited a love of the traditional music of Rwanda and Burundi, he also has a lifelong connection with rock and roll, blues, jazz, R&B, Reggae and folk traditions. His music reflects his immersion in a world culture which he has navigated with grace, sensitivity and an enormous sense of exploration and fun. It is enriched by many traditions. It is authentically his. It is validated by its own excellence. Yes, the Mighty Popo is a Rwandan/Burundian refugee/ survivor whose music is steeped in African tradition. He is also one terrific musician and someone to watch – in Canada and around the world.
www.mightypopo.ca
********************************************************
Music By the Bay Live presents
Mardi Gras Party
With Loco Zydeco
The Waterfront Bistro, 590 Liverpool Rd. S., Pickering ON
Thursday, February 18 @ 8 pm; tickets $20
Loco Zydeco is a 6-person, high energy, Canadian Zydeco band, based in Toronto. Loco Zydeco has created a unique take on Louisiana's most exciting musical export – the accordion and rub-board driven, get the crowd movin’ and groovin’ straight out of the steamy Creole bayou music called Zydeco. In all its toe-tapping, hip-shaking glory, only a very few bands in Canada perform Zydeco.
Formed in 2002, Loco Zydeco has earned a reputation for pumping up a crowd of any age, getting them moving in their seats or onto the dance floor and joining them on stage to try their hand at the rub-board during their energetic live performances.
http://www.locozydeco.com/LZ/Home.html
There will be seating for everyone to enjoy the performance in this intimate 100-seat venue. Free parking is available. Enjoy a Mardi Gras-inspired dinner before the show and receive a 10% discount on your meal (food only); reservations @ 905-420-2020.
http://www.musicbythebaylive.com/shows.html
********************************************************
Rev. Ernie Cox and Band
CD Release
NAC Fourth Stage, 53 Elgin Street
Friday & Saturday, February 19-20; tickets $25
The Rev. Ernie Cox and his 5 piece band, along with the London Family singers, present two evenings of soulful Blues and black Gospel music. This is a special CD release concert for Ernie's brand new Blues and Gospel disc, recorded in Montreal Studio Victor.
********************************************************
Matt Anderson
& Wil
Centrepointe Theatre,
Thursday, February 25 @ 8 pm; tickets $35
Matt Andersen is a well-known and established part of the East Coast music landscape, a favourite live performer at clubs and festivals, who won Blues and Male Solo Recording of the Year at the 2009 East Coast Music Awards. His sprawling acoustic blues, roots and rock musical hybrid and his soulful voice has sparked a phenomenal buzz. Wil delivers intense live shows with his expansive roots-rock lyrics sound and world-weary lyrics.
********************************************************
MARDI GRAS
With Ball & Chain
And Swamperella
Elmdale House, 1084 Wellington Street
Saturday, February 27
Ball and Chain presents MARDI GRAS with Swamperella.
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. 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.
Swamperella is not just a musical group, it's a scene: spicy, melancholy, toe tapping, sexy, the Swamperella experience ‘'defies listeners to stay seated’. Swamperella’s expression of music is deeply rooted in Cajun tradition and the band’s original material attests to a profound understanding of and connection to the ‘Louisiana sound’.
This band has played a myriad of venues and whether the show is in a barn in Gaspé, Quebec for the 400th anniversary of Acadian history, or at Brock University performing with the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, Swamperella rocks! And people respond! The music is infectious and the Swamperella approach is to pull out all the stops. The old fashioned waltzes drive forward in pulsating rhythm, the plaintive vocal harmonies wrap the listener in a haunting reminiscence, the washboard grooves get everyone moving and those that still won't dance find themselves clapping along and hollering.
Swamperella is honest in its musical approach, its interpretation and its repartée. Swamperella is a five-piece band made up of: lead fiddler, vocalist and washboard player Soozi Schlanger; on button accordion, fiddle and vocals Peter Jellard; guitarist, Conny Nowe; bassist, Rachel Melas; and percussionist, Dave Pontello. Swamperella’s 3rd recording, “On the Line”, contains a mixture of traditional Cajun waltzes and two steps, Swamperella originals, and some upbeat zydeco numbers.
********************************************************
Mr. Something Something
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, February 27
A little something for the body, a little something for the mind: your soundtrack to a joyful revolution.
With their fourth album, Toronto’s Mr. Something Something continue to gain international recognition for their unique blend of Afrobeat, jazz and pop. Their irresistible rhythms and interactive live shows have long served as a vehicle for social justice & environmental activism, and in 2009, the band took audience participation to new levels with its SoundCycle - Canada’s first bicycle powered sound system. Power to the people, by the people!
Mr. Something Something represents six 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.
http://www.mrsomethingsomething.com/
*******************************************************
Debbie Davies
Victoria Hall Concert Hall, Coburg ON
Saturday, February 27 @ 8 pm; tickets $26.50 advance, $32 at the door
A twenty-year veteran of the road, Debbie Davies is truly one of the leading lights on the contemporary blues music scene today. She’s a former guitarist for Albert Collins and John Mayall and her latest Vizz Tone release “Holdin’ Court’ is high on the National Roots Radio Charts (blues). “Holdin’ Court” is all-instrumentals(5 covers, 6 originals), reminiscent of the blues instrumental albums released in the 1960s. Debbie Davis is nominated for a 2010 Blues Music Award for Best Traditional Blues Artist/electric/female.
http://www.zapp-productions.com/
*******************************************************
MonkeyJunk
Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC
Saturday, February 27 @ 9 pm
Sunday, February 28 @ 4 pm
Canada’s newest blues and roots band is taking the blues scene by storm. After placing 3rd in the IBC in Memphis in February 2009, they toured Canada and appeared at European festivals. They are nominated for 6 Maple Blues Awards and also received a rare, for Canadians, Blues Music Award nomination for Best New Artist Debut. Formed in late March 2008 in Ottawa, they play an 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!
http://www.monkeyjunkband.com/
********************************************************
BLUES ON THE RIDEAU 2009/10
********************************************************
Blues on the Rideau, a Dinner & Show Fundraiser Series at The Cove Inn, Westport featuring some of Canada’s best blues artists, takes place once month from October to June in the friendly, intimate setting of a cozy country Inn. Includes a delicious full course buffet dinner plus the Show with proceeds going to support different local charities – all for only $55 tax in. Advance reservations required. Shows frequently sell out in advance so book early. February 19 – One show only – JEROME GODBOO BAND http://www.jeromegodboo.comFrom Toronto - A potent mix of voice, harmonica & electricity – 2009 Maple Blues Harmonica Player of the Year nomineeProceeds to the Rideau Waterway Land Trust & Friends of Foley Mountain March 19 – One show only – JOHN CAMPBELLJOHN BAND http://www.campbelljohn.caFrom Cape Breton, NS - Sizzling slide guitar rockin’ blues all the way from Cape Breton – a multiple Maple Blues Award nomineeProceeds to the Westport Lions Club Mobility Van & Compassion Canada Sponsor-A-Child April 23/24 – HARMONICA SHAH w. JACK DE KEYZER & BANDhttp://www.electrofi.com and http://www.jackdekeyzer.comFrom Detroit & Toronto - The Shah of Detroit blues harp & voice with a hot Toronto band featuring the great Jack de Keyzer on guitarProceeds to Westport In Bloom & Habitat For Humanity May 14 – To be announced June 19 – DANNY MARKS & THE BLUES ALL STARS http://www.dannym.comFrom Toronto - A child prodigy now one of Canada’s best blues guitarist/singer/entertainers backed by an All Star bandProceeds to the David McCarthy Scholarship Fund Artists & dates may change. Check the web site or call The Cove as the Show date draws closer.$55 for dinner & show (taxes & donation to charity included) 7 pm buffet dinner, Show 8:30 pm to 11 pmWell-priced accommodation available at The Cove & nearby B&Bs The historic Cove Inn is located in the beautiful town of Westport on Upper Rideau Lake - a 1.5 hour drive from Ottawa, 45 minutes from Kingston. http://www.coveinn.com
Advance reservations required. Call The Cove (613) 273-3636 & book your tickets now!
Visit http://www.choosetheblues.ca for more info & updates
********************************************************
BLUES IN KINGSTON
********************************************************
Sharrie Williams
and her awesome band, The Wiseguys
Confederation Place Hotel
Friday February 12; doors open 8 pm; show starts at 8:30 pm; tickets $25
From Detroit (Saginaw) Michigan, the Princess of Rockin’ Gospel Blues, Sharrie Williams has been nominated twice for the Blues Music Award’s ‘Female Artist of the Year’.
http://www.sharriewilliams.com/
********************************************************
Regular events
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.
********************
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
*******************************************************
BLUES ON THE RADIO
********************************************************
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.
**********
Wednesdays: 9-11 pm
In A Mellow Tone
with Ron Sweetman
Jazz from every era & every style – from 1917 to 2010. 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, January 27 – Monk’s Casino Part 2: Alexander von Schlippenbach [piano], Axel Dorner [trumpet], Rudi Mahall [bass clarinet], Jan Roder [bass] and Uli Jennessen [drums] play every published Thelonious Monk composition. An amazing achievement.
Next week, February 3 – Listen Before You Buy: Recent jazz and blues releases.
**********
Every other Monday, 2-7 am – starting Monday, January 18
Rockin’ the Blues from Canada
with Diane Wells
Every early Monday morning Diane plays a mix of Rock (classic and new) and Blues (traditional, contemporary, fusions).
********************************************************
On CBC Radio Two 103.3 FM
Saturdays: 6-8 pm
On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM
Saturdays: 9-11 pm
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.
**********
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 – http://www.bravo.ca
Tuesday, January 26 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm Roots & 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.
Tuesday, January 26 @ 8 am – Talkin’ Blues
Downchild Blues Band (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features words and music from award-winning Canadian veterans Downchild Blues Band and their leader, Donnie Walsh.
Friday, January 29 @ 9 am - 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, February 2 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm Roots & 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.
Tuesday, February 2 @ 8 am – Talkin Blues
WC Handy Awards (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode, shot in Memphis, offers an overview of the 26th Awards, a performance from Watermelon Slim and a profile of Michael Powers - both 2005 nominees.
********************************************************
LOCALS LOOK AHEAD
********************************************************
Thursday & Friday, February 4-5
Rocket Rached & the Fat City 8 live CD recording at the Elmdale House, 9:30 pm
Saturday, February 13
Barrelhouse @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Mighty Popo @ the Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC, 9:30 pm
Friday, February 19
The Mud Boys & King Rattler @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Saturday, February 20
Loudlove @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Saturday, February 27
MonkeyJunk @ the Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC, 9:30 pm
Ball & Chain @ the Elmdale House, 9:30 pm
********************************************************
********************************************************
No comments:
Post a Comment