Local singer/songwriters Melissa McClelland and Luke Doucet have not only decided to merge their lives (they're married) but they've now chosen to intertwine their music.
The result is Whitehorse, the couple's new project, who's beautiful self-titled debut was recently released through Six Shooter Records.
These two definitely work well together musically. Both have strong voices but when they join together, the harmonies are wonderful.
Highlights include the infectious Killing Time is Murder and Broken, the powerful Passenger 24, and a wonderful version of Springsteen's I'm On Fire.
Mike does an amazing job with these jazzy pre-war numbers (such as Dinah, Rocking Chair, Jitterbug Waltz). Though he maintains the feel of the originals there is a modern polish to them. His guitar work and vocals are in great form here.
This is mainly a one man show as Mike handles guitar, bass, banjo and more. Jill Daley does join him on violin for the title track though. His frequent musical partner Alec Fraser helped mix the songs.
Hamilton Blues legend Harrison Kennedy has received a nomination for the upcoming 2012 Juno Awards. His latest CD, Shame the Devilis up for the Blues album of the year.
Congratulations to local soul legend John Ellison for receiving a Rev. John C Holland Award. Every year, the honor is bestowed upon significant contributors to the community to celebrate Black History Month. It was the 16th anniversary of the gala.
Ellison is best known as the writer of the 1967 international hit Some Kind of Wonderful.
Mark's usual roots/country sound is enhanced by Kris' more modern pop-like sensibilities. Her sultry voice is a great contrast to Mark's rougher vocals. This combination gives the disc an eclectic, energetic feel.
Shiny Things weaves in and out of genres with ease. We have the funkiness of the title track, the country sounds of Outlaw of Love and the softer feel of Sunny Days With You (a runner-up in the International Song of the Year competition).
The duo are joined by Les Smith (Trickbag) on harmonica and harmony vocals, Mark Volkov on sax, and Derek Evernden on additional guitar. Mark and Dan Medavoic produced the disc.
As an added bonus, the physical CD can be purchased in a distractingly shiny metal case or standard cardboard packaging - both of which can be purchased at their live shows. The album is also available as a download on their Bandcamp web page.
Congratulations to HamiltoniansAlfie Smith and Rita Chiarelli for making the top 20 of the Blind Lemon Blues list of the best Canadian Blues albums of 2011. They were numbers 13 and 9 respectively.