29 September 2009

Ottawa Blues This Week - 29 September 2009 - UPDATE

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OTTAWA BLUES SOCIETY

ON THE ROAD TO MEMPHIS

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Two rounds of Semi-Final competition for The Ottawa Blues Society’s “On the Road to Memphis – Blues Challenge” took place September 16 and 23 with the Finals held on Friday, September 25 at Tucson’s, Ottawa. Judging by the crowds who attended (both the lucky ones indoors and those lined up outdoors), it was a huge success! Advancing to the Finals competition for the opportunity to represent Ottawa at the International Competitions in Memphis TN were:

1. Phlegm

2. The Jesse Greene Band

3. Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo
4. Drew Nelson Band

This local “Band” category competition is Ottawa’s second time participating in the prestigious Blues Foundation’s, “International Blues Challenge”. A $5.00 cover charge and impressive raffle draws raised a total of $2,900 as financial support for travel and accommodation expenses for the winning OBS representative. Thanks to the following sponsors who supported this year’s event: Tucson's, The Works, FabGear 64, Chilly Chiles, CD Warehouse, Northern Blues Music and Lorenzo's.

Todd Bernard (DAWG-FM, Canada and North America’s first ever all blues commercial radio hitting the airwaves by Summer 2010) acted as M.C. and Final Round Judges included: Fred Litwin (President of Northern Blues Music), Lynn Saxberg (Ottawa Citizen arts reporter), Alexandre Petit, (Virée Blues Boréale), and Ottawa’s own J.W. Jones (Blues Musician). Throughout the competitions, each band’s 25-minute performance was judged by the same criteria used for the International Competition in Memphis.

When all the scores were tabulated, The Jesse Greene Band (Jesse Greene - vocals, guitar; Marc Seguin – harmonica; Dan Grewal - bass; Jason Cote – drums; and Luke Donovan - guitar) was chosen to represent Ottawa in Memphis, TN, January 20-23, 2010 at the 26th International Blues Challenge.

Congratulations to The Jesse Greene Band!

http://www.myspace.com/thejessegreeneband

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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK

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Virée Blues Boréale presents

Steve Hill

Club Addiction, 117 Promenade du Portage in the Old Hull sector

Wednesday, September 30 @ 8 pm

Our 10th edition is reason to celebrate and to thank our appreciative fans and our loyal partners. So, we decided to invite an artist most often requested by our fans, Steve Hill. Once more we were very lucky and came to the right place at the right time. Indeed, Steve Hill & The Majestiks were starting a tour of Canada this fall, to present their new album, “The Damage Done”, a true rock album but not denying his strong Blues roots, produced by Steve himself.

Steve Hill made his debut on stage at 16. He was so successful that in less than four years, he was doing more than 200 shows a year on top of recording his first album which was rated ‘Best Canadian Debut Recording’ by Vancouver’s Real Blues magazine. After touring Canada, France and Belgium, he went back in studio sessions in 1999 to record “Call it What You Will”. He then went on a tour which brought him to perform on major stages with some of the Blues’ greatests: Ray Charles, B.B. King, Jimmie Vaughan, Buddy Guy, Johnny Lang and many others.

He launched his third album in 2002, “Domino” which pointed in a different direction, quite far from his usual soundscape. Domino” offers a more contemporary sound that goes together with the progression of Steve Hill as composer, performer, arranger and producer. A mix of rock, R&B and electro-shaded Blues, the album and the tour were highly praised by the critics. The following year, Steve Hill began a 3-year collaboration with the legendary Michel Pagliaro, immortalized on a DVD titled “Live à Québec”. In 2007, Steve Hill pushed his musical exploration further in his album “Devil at my Heels”, an extremely rock, heavy, harsh, but still very melodic. On the tour for this album, Hill performed with ZZ Top, The Tragically Hip and Jeff Beck, among others. Following that, he worked on Eric Lapointe’s album “Ma Peau” and also toured with him. Now Steve Hill is back on tour with his invaluable teammates, Johnny Flash on guitar, who also provides some compositions, Rock Laroche on bass and Sam Harrisson on drums and they present their latest album “The Damage Done”.

www.stevehillandthemajestiks.com

www.stevehillmusic.com

www.myspace.com/stevehillandthemajestiks

www.myspace.com/vireeblues.

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Wild T & the Spirit

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Friday, October 2 @ 9:15 pm

The power trio line up of Tony Springer, Guenther Kapelle and Murad Gunduz has been receiving rave reviews from fans & press all over. “Fender Bender” is Wild T & the Spirit’s 5th CD, on Jazzhaus Records; it covers the whole spectrum with guitar ripping' blues-rock, soulful melodies & psychedelic super jams.

http://www.myspace.com/wildtandthespirit

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Mr. Something Something

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, October 2 @ 9:30 pm

“A little something for the body. A little something for the mind. The grooves have West African roots, with breaks and basslines designed to induce and sustain a state of ecstatic dancing. The horn section strikes with power and uplifts with melody, leading the dancers through extended forms. Above it all, acting as a lightning-rod for the combined energies of a Mr. Something Something event is the lyric statement of the case for change and consciousness. And dance.”

http://www.mrsomethingsomething.com/

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Ross Neilsen & the Suffrin` Bastards

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Saturday, October 3 @ 9:30 pm

Two time East Coast Music Association nominee and two time CBC Rising Star Award winner, Ross Neilsen, eats, breathes and sleeps the blues. Whether electrifying audiences with his power trio or telling tall tales in his intimate solo shows, Ross has been "out there" delivering the goods.

http://www.myspace.com/rossneilsen

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

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Drew Nelson Band

Baker Street Café, 385 Richmond Road

Friday & Saturday, October 2 & 3; 9:30 pm – 12:30 am

“Coffee House Blues” kicks off at Baker Street Café. John Merriam’s idea is to offer a venue where people can enjoy really good Blues in an atmosphere of "just that" … people wanting to hear some good Blues”. Baker Street Café is not licensed … they will be serving a very limited menu with specialty coffees and desserts. John’s roots go back to the Le Hibou days in Ottawa ... and he hopes Baker Street Café will follow the tradition of what was so great so many years ago.

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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

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Magic Slim & The Teardrops
The Waterfront Bistro, 590 Liverpool Road, Pickering ON

Thursday, October 1 @ 8 pm; tickets $45

Magic Slim & the Teardrops proudly uphold the tradition of what a Chicago blues band should sound like. At 70+, Magic Slim sounds as nasty and gritty as any bluesman you can name. He’s one of the few Mississippi bluesmen who moved to Chicago in the early ‘50s still on the scene. His sound hasn’t
evolved much over the years -- he still plays slide guitar without a slide, just his fingers slipping up and down the strings so he’s able to bend notes while he slides – but it doesn’t have to. His primal vocals, red-hot guitar work, and the supple backing of his Teardrops, Jon McDonald, Melvin Smith, David Sims and Vern Taylor, create the kind of deep bluesy feeling that can't be faked.

Their emphasis on ensemble playing and a humongous repertoire that allegedly ranges upwards of a few hundred songs give the towering guitarist's live performances an endearing off-the-cuff quality: You never know what obscurity he’ll pull out of his oversized hat next. In a world where blues bands are becoming increasingly slick and polished, Magic Slim and the Teardrops are proof the real deal still exists. Slim’s tough, smoky vocals and incisive guitar work are Chicago barroom blues at its best, and each performance captures the man and his band in their element -- on stage, drawing sweat for a room full of fans.

There will be seating for everyone to enjoy the performance in this intimate 100-seat venue. Free parking. Reservations: 905-420-2020; receive a 10% discount on your meal (food only).

Tickets available online at http://www.musicbythebaylive.com/

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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

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

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LOCALS THIS WEEK

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Friday, October 2

MonkeyJunk @ Irene’s, 9:30 pm

Friday & Saturday, October 2-3

Drew Nelson Band @ Baker Street Café, 9:30 pm

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27 September 2009

Ottawa Blues This Week - 28 September 2009

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OTTAWA BLUES SOCIETY

ON THE ROAD TO MEMPHIS

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The Ottawa Blues Society will be sending the Jesse Greene band ‘On the Road to Memphis’.

Congratulations! And thanks to all who attended and to our judges and fantastic bands.

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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK

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

Virée Blues Boréale presents

Steve Hill

Club Addiction, 117 Promenade du Portage in the Old Hull sector

Wednesday, September 30 @ 8 pm

Our 10th edition is reason to celebrate and to thank our appreciative fans and our loyal partners. So, we decided to invite an artist most often requested by our fans, Steve Hill. Once more we were very lucky and came to the right place at the right time. Indeed, Steve Hill & The Majestiks were starting a tour of Canada this fall, to present their new album, “The Damage Done”, a true rock album but not denying his strong Blues roots, produced by Steve himself.

Steve Hill made his debut on stage at 16. He was so successful that in less than four years, he was doing more than 200 shows a year on top of recording his first album which was rated ‘Best Canadian Debut Recording’ by Vancouver’s Real Blues magazine. After touring Canada, France and Belgium, he went back in studio sessions in 1999 to record “Call it What You Will”. He then went on a tour which brought him to perform on major stages with some of the Blues’ greatests: Ray Charles, B.B. King, Jimmie Vaughan, Buddy Guy, Johnny Lang and many others.

He launched his third album in 2002, “Domino” which pointed in a different direction, quite far from his usual soundscape. Domino” offers a more contemporary sound that goes together with the progression of Steve Hill as composer, performer, arranger and producer. A mix of rock, R&B and electro-shaded Blues, the album and the tour were highly praised by the critics. The following year, Steve Hill began a 3-year collaboration with the legendary Michel Pagliaro, immortalized on a DVD titled “Live à Québec”. In 2007, Steve Hill pushed his musical exploration further in his album “Devil at my Heels”, an extremely rock, heavy, harsh, but still very melodic. On the tour for this album, Hill performed with ZZ Top, The Tragically Hip and Jeff Beck, among others. Following that, he worked on Eric Lapointe’s album “Ma Peau” and also toured with him. Now Steve Hill is back on tour with his invaluable teammates, Johnny Flash on guitar, who also provides some compositions, Rock Laroche on bass and Sam Harrisson on drums and they present their latest album “The Damage Done”.

www.stevehillandthemajestiks.com

www.stevehillmusic.com

www.myspace.com/stevehillandthemajestiks

www.myspace.com/vireeblues.

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Wild T & the Spirit

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Friday, October 2 @ 9:15 pm

The power trio line up of Tony Springer, Guenther Kapelle and Murad Gunduz has been receiving rave reviews from fans & press all over. “Fender Bender” is Wild T & the Spirit’s 5th CD, on Jazzhaus Records; it covers the whole spectrum with guitar ripping' blues-rock, soulful melodies & psychedelic super jams.

http://www.myspace.com/wildtandthespirit

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Mr. Something Something

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, October 2 @ 9:30 pm

“A little something for the body. A little something for the mind. The grooves have West African roots, with breaks and basslines designed to induce and sustain a state of ecstatic dancing. The horn section strikes with power and uplifts with melody, leading the dancers through extended forms. Above it all, acting as a lightning-rod for the combined energies of a Mr. Something Something event is the lyric statement of the case for change and consciousness. And dance.”

http://www.mrsomethingsomething.com/

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

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

Drew Nelson Band

Baker Street Café, 385 Richmond Road

Friday & Saturday, October 2 & 3; 9:30 pm – 12:30 am

“Coffee House Blues” kicks off at Baker Street Café. John Merriam’s idea is to offer a venue where people can enjoy really good Blues in an atmosphere of "just that" … people wanting to hear some good Blues”. Baker Street Café is not licensed … they will be serving a very limited menu with specialty coffees and desserts. John’s roots go back to the Le Hibou days in Ottawa ... and he hopes Baker Street Café will follow the tradition of what was so great so many years ago.

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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

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

Magic Slim & The Teardrops
The Waterfront Bistro, 590 Liverpool Road, Pickering ON

Thursday, October 1 @ 8 pm; tickets $45

Magic Slim & the Teardrops proudly uphold the tradition of what a Chicago blues band should sound like. At 70+, Magic Slim sounds as nasty and gritty as any bluesman you can name. He’s one of the few Mississippi bluesmen who moved to Chicago in the early ‘50s still on the scene. His sound hasn’t
evolved much over the years -- he still plays slide guitar without a slide, just his fingers slipping up and down the strings so he’s able to bend notes while he slides – but it doesn’t have to. His primal vocals, red-hot guitar work, and the supple backing of his Teardrops, Jon McDonald, Melvin Smith, David Sims and Vern Taylor, create the kind of deep bluesy feeling that can't be faked.

Their emphasis on ensemble playing and a humongous repertoire that allegedly ranges upwards of a few hundred songs give the towering guitarist's live performances an endearing off-the-cuff quality: You never know what obscurity he’ll pull out of his oversized hat next. In a world where blues bands are becoming increasingly slick and polished, Magic Slim and the Teardrops are proof the real deal still exists. Slim’s tough, smoky vocals and incisive guitar work are Chicago barroom blues at its best, and each performance captures the man and his band in their element -- on stage, drawing sweat for a room full of fans.

There will be seating for everyone to enjoy the performance in this intimate 100-seat venue. Free parking. Reservations: 905-420-2020; receive a 10% discount on your meal (food only).

Tickets available online at http://www.musicbythebaylive.com/

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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.

Special guests this month:

Oct 1 - Cory Sullivan

Oct 8 - John Yemensky

Oct 15 - Rob Alexander

Oct 22 - Chuck Karn
Oct 29 - JW-Jones

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

http://www.atomicrooster.ca

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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

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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

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A 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).

http://rivercityjunction.com/

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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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SPECIAL EVENTS COMING SOON

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Roots and Blues

Ball and Chain and the Wreckers

Beau's Brewery, 10 Terry Fox Drive, Vankleek Hill ON

Tuesday, October 6

Ball and Chain and the Wreckers play for a Harvest Party and fundraiser for the Vankleek Hill Food Bank. You know this has to be a good time.

www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin

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Ball and Chain and the Wreckers

CD release

Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street

Saturday, October 10; $10

All Right!! This is the moment we’ve been anticipating for what seems like ages. "Louisiana Lovebug", our new CD will be released on October 10. Yes ... that’s right, a new CD from Ball and Chain, Ottawa’s only Classic Country Dance Band. The album was recorded in Louisiana with a great list of local players and here at home we’re proud to have our own band, The Wreckers on board to back us up. The album sounds great, and we're really proud of it. This recording is produced by Dirk Powell www.dirkpowell.org and recorded in his studio in Parks, Louisiana. Six new original songs plus seven inspired interpretations from the Classic Country and Canadian Songwriter catalogue.

www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin

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Mason Rack Band

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, October 16

The Mason Rack Band is now on their third tour of Canada! The band has recently been tearing up the international scene and have leaped into the higher performing spectrum of live blues rock. Their success is due to Mason’s huge stage presence and creative performance. There is a great drum duel where Mason walks out into the audience playing anything he can find, only to challenge the drummer Joel Purkess in Canada (Jay Conway in Australia) to fight back. The show leaves the audience gob-smacked and craving more; they have never seen anything like it before! Some try to imitate it and that only goes to show the new ground breaking ideas Mason is bringing to the live stage. Now with their new bassist Markus Engal in Canada (Ray Goddard in Australia) the band is truly making their mark on Canada.

http://masonrack.com/

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Treasa Levasseur

With Special Guest Noelie McDonnell

Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC

Friday October 16@ 9 pm; $10

Treasa: Soul / Blues / Roots Music
Noelie: Folk Rock / Acoustic / Folk

http://www.myspace.com/treasalevasseur

http://www.myspace.com/noeliemcdonnell

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Fathead

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Friday, October 16

That they have been described as a Blues Tour De Force comes as no surprise. Georgia-raised lead singer John May has had a storied career that began in the Southern gospel tradition, crossing over into Doo-Wop, R&B and Blues, not to mention a stint with the Godfather Of Soul, James Brown. Hooking up
with band leader Al Lerman (harp and saxophone) in Toronto some years later, Fathead’s core has remained constant since 1992, offering ace musicianship, soul stirring harmonies and incendiary live performances. The writing tandem of Lerman and bassist Omar Tunnoch have produced an impressive body of work. Guitar ace Teddy Leonard is back and better than ever, along with iconic drummer Bucky Berger. Elements of funk, soul, and R&B are fused into the group's strong blues backbone, creating a fresh sound that is immediately recognizable as their own.

Fathead is currently recording their seventh disc which will be produced by Juno Award winning musician/producer Lance Anderson and will be released by Electro-Fi Records in January 2010. With two Juno awards to their credit, Fathead is truly an original band with a sound immediately recognizable as their own. They have a ball wherever they play and it shows!

http://www.fathead.biz/

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Ottawa Bluesfest presents

Keb’ Mo’

Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Avenue

Saturday, October 17 @ 9 pm

Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest organizers announced a return engagement by three-time Grammy winner, Keb’ Mo’, who wowed Bluesfest fans with a stellar set at the ‘fest in 2008. Keb’ Mo’ will be performing with a full band at Ottawa’s Bronson Centre on Saturday, October 17.

Proceeds are in support of Bluesfest’s Blues in the Schools program.

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David Rotundo

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, October 30 @ 9:30 pm

Toronto blues harpist David Rotundo bought his first harmonica after seeing James Cotton perform at the El Mocambo in 1991: "He blew one note on the harmonica that hypnotized me and I've been playing the blues ever since."

Every Gig Rocks! The David Rotundo band always delivers. When you see the band live, you are instantly struck by the fact that David lives for what he does.

http://www.davidrotundo.com/

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Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest & Ottawa Folk Fest present

Folk Festival Fundraiser Concert

The Guthrie Family Rides Again

Featuring Arlo Guthrie & the Family

(with Abe, Cathy, Annie, Sarah Lee Guthrie, Johnny Irion ... and the Kids)

Dominion Chalmers United Church, 355 Cooper Street

Wednesday, October 28 @ 8 pm; Concert only tickets $50

After concert Meet & Greet + concert - $75

With a spirit of sharing timeless stories and unforgettable classic songs, Arlo Guthrie brings together four generations of voices. Performing Arlo’s standards such as ‘Alice’s Restaurant’ along with songs written by each member of the family, they also add a new twist — a selection of unpublished Woody Guthrie lyrics set to music by friends and family. “The Guthries are the first family of American folk. They practice what Woody preached.” — Vanity Fair

http://www.ottawafolk.org/

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The Temptations

Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Drive

Saturday, October 31 @ 8:30 pm; tickets $65, $75

One of the most iconic bands in the history of American music, 2009 marks the 45th Anniversary of the Temptations first #1 hit. Founding member Otis Williams originated the band in 1961 and the Temptations had their first #1 hit & tour in 1964-1965.

Since then, the Temptations have become an institution noted for their precise choreography and blend of R&B vocal sensibilities. A continuous line up of 5 highly talented male singers working together as a vocal powerhouse has propelled the Temptations thru out their 45-year history. With a focus on the vocal ensemble, rather than a lead singer, many singers have come and gone, yet (founding original member) Otis Williams has continued to keep the Temptations sound alive and at the top of the charts. As members of the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame and listed as one of the top 50 bands of all time in Rolling Stone Magazine, The Temptations have 4 Grammy Awards, 18- #1 Billboard singles, 23 top ten singles and 10 top ten albums.


With great songs, and a 15 -piece band, the live stage show is an experience that continues to ‘wow’ audiences around the world. The Temptations constantly enlist new fans as they continue to deliver the Motown vocal sound that made them famous. “Get ready, cause here they come”.


“A History of American Pop Music in one band- The Temptations”
http://temptationssing.com/

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Clarence-Rockland RnB Fest

Rockland, ON

Wednesday to Sunday, November 5-8

The 2nd Clarence-Rockland RnB Fest will be held from November 5-8. The festival started last year with only one night of Rhythm N Blues music and the event was a success. This year continues the blues festival committee's mandate to assist local youth. Net profits from the festival will help support programs to encourage youth in the arts, support local performing arts and also this year le Centre de santé communautaire de l'Estrie and the Roberts/Smart Centre will receive a share of the net proceeds to support their youth counselling and mental health programs in the Clarence-Rockland area.

Headlining this year's festival on Saturday, November 7, is Ricky Paquette. In addition to his regular evening concert during the festival, Ricky also headlines an afternoon youth concert and joining him will be the winner of a Bandarama competition this coming October for local youth bands and singer/performers. The singer/songwriter awards will take place on Sunday, November 8 as part of the festival. The festival's lineup also includes Jake Thomas, The Coggs, Silver Creek, Lydie, Jérémie Séguin, Willis Pride and Monday Rebel.

For info www.RnBFest.ca

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CHICAGO BLUES REVUE TOUR

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Melvin Taylor & Studebaker John

Killaloe Lions Hall, 10 Lake Street, Killaloe ON

Thursday, October 1 @ 8 pm; tickets $26.50

Fundraiser for Emilie Stanley

Regent Theatre, Picton ON

Friday, October 2 @ 8 pm; tickets $26.50

First Annual One Day Blues Revue

Victoria Concert Hall, Coburg ON

Saturday, October 3; tickets $39.95

October brings a great Blues Double Header from Chicago to Eastern Ontario … guitar virtuoso Melvin Taylor with journeyman Blues guitarist Studebaker John.

Melvin Taylor is one of the most talented guitarists the planet has produced … an original virtuoso who constantly pushes his own limits. While people in Europe have been aware of Melvin’s talents for years, North America is just starting to catch on. When Melvin plays, jaws hang open as people watch him play the electric guitar in a way no one has ever imagined.

Studebaker John has played and recorded with the Yardbirds as well as the Pretty Things. The Chicago tribune says “His harmonica work recalls past masters like Little Walter and Big Walter Horton while his slide guitar is descended from Elmore James and Hound Dog Taylor (with whom he was friends). On top of that, John is a powerhouse singer and a talented songwriter.”


Backing the two sets is journeyman drummer Kenny Coleman, who has played with everyone in Chicago as well as doing work for legends like Johnny Mathis and Grammy Award winners the Clark Sisters, Koko Taylor and more.

On bass, the master Felton Crews who spent a few years playing with jazz icon Miles Davis! In the Blues world, Felton has played with everyone from Otis Rush to Bonnie Raitt, including a few years with Charlie Musselwhite.


This is a stellar line-up that is going to thrill Blues and music lovers to the soul. Each guitarist will do his own set and then jam they will together at the end.

The First Annual One Day Blues Revue in Cobourg will feature Canadian blues during the afternoon (2-5:45 pm) with the Double Bill at night starting at 8:15 pm until midnight.

2:15 pm – Dave Mowatt

3 pm – Rick Fines

4 pm – Fabulous Tonemasters

5:15 pm – Blues Jam with Dave Mowatt, Rick Fines & Fabulous Tonemasters

6 pm – 2 HOUR BREAK FOR SUPPER

8:15 pm – Studebaker John

9:45 pm – Melvin Taylor

11 pm – Jam with Melvin Taylor & Studebaker John

Dave Mowat, Blues Harmonica great spent 9 years out west making his living playing Blues, playing with Canadian Blues great Big Dave McLean and Ben Sures. Dave was also featured on a CBC-produced showcase called Wang Dang Doodle in Winnipeg. His performance is exceptional; his sound on harp is a nod to classic players like Little Walter and Walter Horton, while his strong vocals are more like Howlin' Wolf.

The Fabulous Tonemasters are aptly named; they pay attention to their sound. These guys have been playing Blues for years and guitarist Gerry spent a number of years playing with Marty and the Mojos.

Rick Fines is a veteran of the folk and blues circuits in North America. In October 2005 Rick he took first place in the Sweetgum Bottom Acoustic Blues Competition. His song ‘Riley Wants His Life Back’ won first place in the blues category of 2003 International Songwriting Competition, with B.B. King one of the judges! He has won MapleBlues Awards for Songwriter of the Year and Acoustic Act Of The Year twice and has received eight additional nominations. His work with Jackson Delta (for 15 years) brought nominations for both Juno and Handy Awards.

Tickets available at the venues, at Zap Records in Cobourg and through www.zapp-productions.com

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UPCOMING FALL CONCERTS

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Aretha Franklin

Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin Street

Sunday, November 8 @ 8 pm

Aretha Louise Franklin is an American singer, songwriter and pianist commonly referred to as "The Queen of Soul". Although renowned for her soul recordings, Franklin is also adept at jazz, rock, blues, pop, R&B, and Gospel music. She is one of the most honoured Grammy artists (20 to date), including

the Living Legend Grammy and the Lifetime Achievement Grammy. She has scored a total of 20 #1 singles on the Billboard R&B Singles Chart and 45 ‘Top 40’ hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. ‘Respect’ was #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. In 1987, Aretha Franklin became the first female artist to be entered into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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Downchild Blues Band

40th Anniversary Live Concert Celebration

Southam Hall, National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin Street

Friday, November 13 @ 8 pm

It’s hard to believe that 40 years have flown by since Donnie ‘Mr. Downchild’ Walsh and his late brother, Hock formed the renowned group that would be the inspiration behind the blues in Canada and, in particular, the world famous Blues Brothers. Downchild Blues Band is celebrating this very special anniversary with an amazing group of very special friends including movie icon Dan Aykroyd AKA Elwood Blues, Colin Linden, James Cotton, Wayne Jackson of the Memphis Horns, Local Guitar Virtuoso, Ricky Paquette, and more surprise guests to be announced.

The Downchild Blues Band is a Canadian blues institution with an international reputation. They have been rewarded with an array of awards from both the media and the music industry, including a 1991 Juno Award for Best Roots and Traditional Album and ‘Entertainers of The Year’ at the 2007 Maple Blues Awards. A constant throughout, Donnie ‘Mr. Downchild’ Walsh, the leader and founding member of the band, has kept the music alive and relevant in the world of blues today. Downchild band members include some of the most well respected musicians in the country, who have performed together for over 15 years. This includes silky smooth singer and harmonica player Chuck Jackson, tenor sax player Pat Carey, Mike Fitzpatrick on drums, rhythm captain Gary Kendall on bass, and former American super-group rocker Michael Fonfara (of Rhinoceros fame) on keyboards.

Downchild has always been a band with loyal fans and in 1970 Dan Aykroyd was one of their biggest supporters, recording two Downchild songs, ‘I Got Everything I Need (Almost)’ and ‘Shotgun Blues’ for the multi-platinum selling Blues Brothers album "Briefcase Full of Blues". Dan Aykroyd will be appearing with Downchild for three extraordinary performances in Ottawa, Montreal and Toronto.

Grammy nominee, Colin Linden has played on and produced hundreds of albums for such luminaries as Lucinda Williams, Colin James, Bruce Cockburn and David Wilcox to name a few. Linden is touring in support of his new album entitled "From The Water" on True North Records/Universal. Special guests for Toronto and Ottawa include James Cotton and Wayne Jackson. James Cotton is a legendary blues harmonica player who grew up in the South playing with Muddy Waters and is now celebrating 65 years in the entertainment business! The one and only Wayne Jackson of the Memphis Horns, has played on 52 Number One records and over 80 Gold and Platinum records and toured the world and recorded with such stars as Elvis, Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, Al Green, Neil Young, U2 and Peter Gabriel.

Downchild are currently recording their 40th Anniversary album “I Need A Hat” with some very special guests.

For more information visit: http://www.downchild.com

Tickets on sale now.

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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU 2009/10

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Choose The Blues Productions is very pleased to announce the 2009/10 Line-Up (our 5th season) for Blues On The Rideau at The Cove. More details on artists will be posted on http://www.choosetheblues.ca shortly.

Blues On The Rideau
At The Cove Inn, Westport ON
Dinner & Show Fundraiser Series

2009/10 LINE-UP - our 5th Season

October 16 * MIKE GOUDREAU BAND http://www.mikegoudreau.com
Boppin’, swingin’ joie de vivre blues from Quebec’s Eastern Townships
Proceeds to the Lucy Drysdale Memorial Scholarship Fund

November 20 * HARRISON KENNEDY BAND http://www.harrisonkennedy.ca
>From Hamilton - Detroit R&B, country blues & juke joint fun - 2008 Maple Blues Male Vocalist of the Year nominee
Proceeds to the Westport Library

December 18 * JOHNNY MAX BAND http://www.johnnymaxband.com
>From Toronto - 2008 Juno Award nominee & 3X Maple Blues Award nominee – sweaty blues, R&B, funk & soul
Proceeds to the Westport Area Food Bank

January 15/16 - DAVID ROTUNDO BAND http://www.davidrotundo.com
>From Toronto - Multiple Maple Blues Award nominee & winner of Harmonica Player of the Year – high energy, dancin’ blues!
Proceeds to Westport’s Rideau Vista & St. Edward’s Elementary Schools

February 19/20 - JEROME GODBOO BAND http://www.jeromegodboo.com
>From Toronto - A potent mix of voice, harmonica & electricity – 2008 Maple Blues Harmonica Player of the Year nominee
Proceeds to the Rideau Waterway Land Trust & Friends of Foley Mountain

March 19/20 - JOHN CAMPBELLJOHN BAND http://www.campbelljohn.ca
>From Cape Breton, NS - Sizzling slide guitar rockin’ blues all the way from Cape Breton – a multiple Maple Blues Award nominee
Proceeds to the Westport Lions Club Mobility Van & Compassion Canada Sponsor-A-Child

April 23/24 - HARMONICA SHAH w. JACK DE KEYZER & BAND http://www.electrofi.com and http://www.jackdekeyzer.com
>From Detroit & Toronto - The Shah of Detroit blues harp & voice with a hot Toronto band featuring the great Jack de Keyzer on guitar
Proceeds to Westport In Bloom & Habitat For Humanity

May 14/15 - TREASA LEVASSEUR BAND http://www.treasalevasseur.com
>From Toronto - Think Etta James, Joni Mitchell, & Dusty Springfield soul, blues, R&B – 3X 2008 Maple Blues Award nominee
Proceeds to Rideau District Museum & Gilda’s Club for Cancer Families

June 19 * DANNY MARKS & THE BLUES ALL STARS http://www.dannym.com
>From Toronto - A child prodigy now one of Canada’s best blues guitarist/singer/entertainers backed by an All Star band
Proceeds to the David McCarthy Scholarship Fund

* indicates 2nd night Show may be added depending on advance ticket sales
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) - same price as the last two years!
7 pm buffet dinner, Show 8:30 pm to 11 pm – all nights
Well-priced accommodation available at The Cove & nearby B&Bs – stay overnight and enjoy a mini-vacation.
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

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BLUES IN KINGSTON

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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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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

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For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society

www.kingstonbluessociety.ca

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BLUES ON THE RADIO

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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.

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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, September 30 – Leading Edge: Recordings of musicians who are working at the leading edge of contemporary jazz and improvised music, such as Sean Bergin, Blah Blah 666, Anthony Braxton, I Compani, Bruce Freedman, Normand Guilbeault, Jean Martin, Joe Morris, Saint Dirt School, Cory Weeds and Raoul van der Weide.

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Mondays, 2-7 am

Rockin’ the Blues

with Diane Wells

Diane has a new show, and she’ll be playing … what else, rockin’ blues!

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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

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.

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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, September 29 @ 8 am – Talkin’ Blues

Julian Fauth (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features multi-talented artist Julian Fauth, who shares his thoughts on the blues.

Tuesday, September 29 @ 10 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, October 6 @ 8 am – Talkin’ Blues

Renee Austin (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode spotlights W.C. Handy Award nominee Renee Austin, an outstanding singer/songwriter who has been compared to Janis Joplin and Tina Turner.

Friday, October 9 @ 9 am – The Jackie Washington Story (2005)
Documentary examining the fascinating life, rich musical history and passionate spirit of the Canadian jazz/swing/blues/folk singer, guitarist and storyteller. This grandson of slaves has an impressive repertoire of 1300 songs.

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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

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

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LOCALS LOOK AHEAD

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Friday, October 9

Bluestone @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Saturday, October 10

Barrelhouse @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

Thursday, October 15

Jeff Hagerman @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

Saturday, October 17

The Mud Boys Rock ‘n’ Roll Revue @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Friday, October 23

Terry Gillespie @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Saturday, October 24

Wicked Grin @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

Friday, October 30

Sweet & the Back Beat @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Saturday, October 31

Hallowe’en Bash with FunKtion @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

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