Thursday, December 18, 2014

News Roundup (Cindy Dell, Treasa Levasseur, Magik Company, Dwayne LaForme)




News 

Please note: There won't be another News Roundup until January 1, 2015.

Local

World

Blasts From the Past 


Birthdays

Friday, December 19
Saturday, December 20
Monday, December 22
Sunday, December 28
Monday, December 29
Tuesday, December 30
Wednesday, December 31
Thursday, January 1


Previous (12 Videos of Christmas: 1-4)

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

12 Videos of Christmas: 1-4

Click picture for bonus video


Links: Bryan RasonMore Elvis Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Bryan Rason




Links: Killin' Time Band, More Killin' Time StoriesVideo above courtesy of Killin' Time



Links: Tony Sciara, Video above courtesy of PaulDuncanBently



Links: Jacob MoonMore Jacob Moon Stories, Trevor DickVideo above courtesy of Jacob Moon

More from the 12 Videos of Christmas

Previous (New Boreal Christmas CD w Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon and Jude Vadala) - - - Next (News Roundup w Cindy Dell, Dan Medakovic, Treasa Levasseur, Magik Company, Dwayne LaForme)

Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon and Jude Vadala Team Up For An Angelic Holiday CD


Boreal is an amazing, trio that wield some heavenly harmonies to celebrate the season.  Their debut is an  angelic holiday CD, Winter's Welcome.  Each one is a world-class artist in her own right but together, they create something spectacular.

Composed of Guelph's Tannis Slimmon and Jude Vadala with Katherine Wheatley from Toronto, these ladies can really create a sense of warmth and wonder.  Listening to these tracks will bring out the magic of the season in anyone.

Filled mainly with sensational, original tracks, this CD also has a few classics such as Carol of the Bells, I'll Be Home for Christmas and Silent Night.  Whether old or new, these songs have a radience that will raise your spirits.

This wonderful trio doesn't play often so you may want to pick up a copy of the disc at their online store or download it through cdbaby.



Video above courtesy of Philip Bast

Blast from the Past: Katherine Wheatley and Others at a Private Show

Links: BorealMore Christmas PostsMore CD Releases

Previous (Local Artists on Top Country's Best Songs of 2014 List) - - - Next (12 Videos of Christmas: 1-4)

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Local Stars on Top Country's Best 50 Songs of 2014 List! Vote for Your Faves!


TopCountry.ca have chosen their favourite 50 Songs of 2014 and they want you to chose the top 3!  Local country superstars from Burlington (Tebey), St. Catharines (Tim Hicks) and Guelph (The Reklaws) are just some of the picks.

Help our area artists out by clicking here and commenting on their post

Wake Me Up - Tebey ft. Emerson Drive



Links: TebeyMore Tebey Stories, Video above courtesy of Tebey

Here Comes The Thunder – Tim Hicks



Links: Tim HicksMore Tim Hicks StoriesVideo above courtesy of Tim Hicks

Seeing Stars – The Reklaws



Links: The ReklawsMore Reklaws StoriesVideo above courtesy of the Reklaws

3-2-1 – Brett Kissel
Alive – Madeline Merlo
American Kids – Kenny Chesney
Another Man’s Gold – Dean Brody
Bartender – Lady Antebellum
Beachin’ – Jake Owen
Burnin’ It Down – Jason Aldean
Cheap Wine and Cigarettes – Jess Moskaluke
Cop Car – Keith Urban
County Line – High Valley
Dirt – Florida Georgia Line
Drunk Heart – One More Girl
Drunk On A Plane – Dierks Bentley
Dust – Eli Young Band
Fallin’ Over You – Chad Brownlee
Forever Summer – Paul Brandt
Friends of Mine – Jason Blaine
Girl In A Country Song – Maddie and Tae
Gravy – The Stellas
I Only Smoke When I Drink – Small Town Pistols
If She Wants This Town – Autumn Hill
If You Ask Me To – MacKenzie Porter
Leave The Night On – Sam Hunt
Like A Cowboy – Randy Houser
Lookin’ For That Girl – Tim McGraw
Mud – The Road Hammers
Never Didn’t Love You – Bobby Wills
Pass It Around – Deric Ruttan
Perfect Storm – Brad Paisley
Play It Again – Luke Bryan
Quarterback – Kira Isabella
Rock and Roll Again – Blackberry Smoke
Run – Blackjack BillyThe Road Hammers and Doc Walker
Shut Me Up – Lindsay Ell
Slow Rollin’ – Dallas Smith
Some Songs – Terri Clark
Somethin’ Bad – Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood
Something In The Water – Carrie Underwood
Take It On Back – Chase Bryant
Talladega – Eric Church
That’s How I Like It – Doc Walker
The Promise – Sturgill Simpson
Up All Night – Jon Pardi
Whatever She’s Got – David Nail
Where A Farm Used To Be – Gord Bamford
Whiskey In My Water – Tyler Farr
Yeah – Joe Nichols

Blast from the Past: Local Artists Nominated for Top Country Awards

Previous (2014 Canadian Folk Music Award Winners) - - - Next (New Boreal Christmas CD w Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon and Jude Vadala)

Saturday, December 13, 2014

2014 Canadian Folk Music Award Winners


Unfortunately, no local musicians won a 10th Annual Canadian Folk Award. The kudos were handed out in Ottawa at the end of November. Matt Andersen whose current album, Weightless features co-writes from Hamilton's Tom Wilson and Niagara's Suzie Vinnick got the nod for Contemporary Singer of the Year.

Here's a full list of winners
Blast from the Past: The 2013 Winners


Previous (New Neil MacNaughton CD) - - - Next (Local Artists on Top Country's Best Songs of 2014 List)

Oakville's Neil MacNaughton Takes Listeners on Wonderful, Wild Ride


Travelling the borderline between Classic Rock and Folk, Pieces of the Trip, the latest CD from Oakville's Neil MacNaughton, will take you on a wonderful, wild ride.  You won't be sorry you took this amazing musical outing.

There's the semi-spacey opening track, Wide Open Spaces, folky guitar/harmonica combos and onward to the funky, jazzy trombones scattered throughout.  Each stop has something astounding to offer.

Joining Neil (who does vocals, acoustic guitar and many other instruments) on this magnificent journey is James MacKay (guitar), Luke Dante (guitar, banjitar), Paul Dante (bass), Dave Toms (drums) as well as vocalists Jessica Jacklin and Lisa Seiler.

Head on down to one of Neil's incredible live shows to pickup this CD or order it through his website.



Video above courtesy of Neil MacNaughton





Videos above courtesy of Music Mayhem and More

Links: Neil MacNaughtonMore CD Releases

Previous (News Roundup w HellBent Rockers, D'Eve Archer, Joe Hocaluk, more) - - - Next (2014 Canadian Folk Award Winners)

Thursday, December 11, 2014

News Roundup (Hell Bent Rockers, D'Eve Archer, Joe Hocaluk)


News 

Local

World
Blasts From the Past 

Birthdays

Friday, December 12
Saturday, December 13
Sunday, December 14
Tuesday, December 16
Wednesday, December 17

Previous (New A.K. McLeod CD- - - Next (New Neil MacNaughton CD)

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Hamilton Bluesman A.K. McLeod Forges Fiery New CD


If loud, mighty guitars are your thing, you MUST check out A.K. McLeod's latest disc, Spiritual Fire. The Hamilton Bluesman and his crew (G. Modesto on bass and drummer Darrin Jamieson) have forged quite a fiery collection of potent grooves!

Spiritual Fire features high-octane covers of Blues classics (Willie Dixon's I Ain't Superstitious, St. James Infirmary, The Thrill is Gone, and Born Under a Bad Sign) and explosive, dynamic originals.  These guys really put the power in power trio as the three of them burst and blaze through every tune.

Contact A.K. through his website or go to one of his killer live shows to get a copy of this CD.  Then crank it to 11 and enjoy!







Links: A.K. McLeodMore CD ReleasesVideos above courtesy of A.K. McLeod

Previous (Blue Rodeo Christmas CD) - - - Next  (News Roundup w HellBent Rockers, D'Eve Archer, Joe Hocaluk, more)

Saturday, December 6, 2014

New Blue Rodeo Christmas CD Will Rock Your Stockings


Canadian country rock superstars Blue Rodeo (now with Hamilton's Colin Cripps on guitar) have released a remarkable new holiday album, A Merrie Christmas to You (released through Warner Music Canada).  This isn't your usual bland collection of sappy yuletide tunes - these are emotional songs about the happiness and heartbreak of the season.  The energy level will also rock your stockings off!

There's rootsy versions of classics like O Come All Ye Faithful and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.  Then the guys cover great winter tunes from Gordon Lightfoot, Big Star, The Band, Paul Simon and Merle Haggard. The main highlights are the two original tracks: the emotional Glad to be Alive and the amazing Home to You This Christmas.

You can pick up the CD at many brick and mortar stores and online shops or you can order it through the Blue Rodeo online store or download using iTunes.







Videos above courtesy of BurritoDLX

Blast from the Past: Blue Rodeo CD - In Our Nature

Links: Blue RodeoMore Blue Rodeo StoriesMore Christmas PostsMore CD Releases

Previous (News Roundup w Curley Bridges, Barbershop Podcast Anniversary, Rebecca Miller, Cartoons) - - - Next (New A.K. McLeod CD)

Thursday, December 4, 2014

News Roundup (Curley Bridges, Barbershop Podcast Anniversary, Rebecca Miller, Cartoons)

Click pic for video

News 

Local

Canada
World
Cartoons





Blasts From the Past 
Birthdays

Thursday, December 4
Friday, December 5
Saturday, December 6
Sunday, December 7
Tuesday, December 9
Wednesday, December 10

Previous (New Dinner Belles CD) - - - Next (Blue Rodeo Christmas CD)

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Hamilton's Dinner Belles Create a Lush Americana Sound with Latest CD


Hamilton's Dinner Belles are purveyors of the finest Americana around.  With their sophomore album, The River and the Willow (their first through Sonic Unyon) they continue to hammer out some incredible rootsy twang.

The band features some of the best local musician's around, such as Scott Bell, Brandon BlissTerra LightfootBrad Germain, Jonathan Ely Cass, Melanie Pothier and Greg Brisco.  They team up to create an organic sounding, spirited country folk of the highest order. Sweet harmonies and a myriad of instruments (xylophone, trombone, bells and more) create a beautiful lush sound that just sinks rights in to your soul.

You can get an LP, CD or download at the Sonic Unyon online store.  This superb album can also be downloaded through iTunes.



Video above courtesy of the Dinner Belles





Above two videos courtesy of StellaBlu447

Blast from the Past: The Dinner Belles' Debut CD

Links: Dinner BellesMore Dinner Belles stories More Releases

Previous (Checkerboard Floors Debut CD) - - - Next (News Roundup w Curley Bridges, Barbershop Podcast Anniversary, Rebecca Miller, Cartoons)

Sunday, November 30, 2014

Checkerboard Floors Let Loose With Multi-Layered, Rockin' Debut

Local Rock band Checkerboard Floors have let loose their debut CD, Art Project.  It's a multi-layerd, dynamic album packed full of powerful riffs with an alt-rock touch.

The band features two members of the Corduroys: Hamilton's Derek Palango (vocals, guitar), Brantford's Matt Outerson (vocals, bass) along with with Brantford 's Tyler Wilson (vocals, guitar) and Kitchener's Rob Shorney (vocals, drums)

With four vocalists and extraordinary playing from all involved, things never get stale.  Roots, funk, alternative rock, classic rock are all mixed in with panache. You never know what to expect from one song to another.

Go ahead and pick up a copy using Paypal through their site or visit Dr. Disc to purchase it.  You can also download the album through iTunes.







Videos above courtesy of Checkerboard Floors

Blast from the Past: Video of Tyler Wilson's Band and More

Links: Checkerboard FloorsMore Releases

Previous (News Roundup w Brian Griffith, John Atlee, Retro Party Groove) - - - Next (New Dinner Belles CD)

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Wonderful New CD from Kitchener's Shannon Lyon


With The Lights Behind, the wonderful new album from Kitchener's Shannon Lyon you'll get something old and something new.  This Busted Flat Records release features four brand new tracks and re-recordings of his earlier songs.  Either way, there's a ton of amazing music to be heard.

Call it Roots Country or Americana -  this CD has a sweet roughness to it both lyrically and musically.  Shannon's expressive voice will send chills down your spine.  The Lights Behind will definitely affect you emotionally.

He's enlisted the help of some amazing musicians such as Elly Kellner, Mike Roelofs, Kitchener's Steve Wood, Adam Warner, Alex McMaster, Jill Daley, and Hamilton's Rob Szabo, who produced the disc.

You can purchase or download this incredible album at the Busted Flat online store.  It can also be downloaded through many services such as BandcampiTuneseMusic and cdbaby.







Videos above courtesy of Shannon Lyon

Links: Shannon LyonMore Releases

Previous (My Flying Machine Debut EP) - - - Next (News Roundup w Brian Griffith, John Atlee, Retro Party Groove)

Saturday, November 22, 2014

Hamilton's My Flying Machine Debut is Stunning


My Flying Machine, the fascinating new musical project featuring Hamilton boy Brandon General defies categorization.  The genre blending debut EP Happiness is a Learned Behavior has synthesized both modern and traditional elements perfectly.

It has a stunning 60's wall of sound feel with lush harmonies (sometimes even choir-like) and catchy hooks.  Many songs also blend in a modern alt-pop folk sound which works surprisingly well. A little bit of swing and soul make their way into the mix to add some bounce.  This is most evident in the infectious version of Blind Willie McTell's Pal O' Mine.  Brandon's beautiful, poetic lyrics tie everything together nicely.

The core of My Flying Machine consists of Brandon (guitar, piano, bass, vocals) with James Prasek of Dunnville's Cover Story (drums) and Hamilton gal Brennagh Burns (harmonies/choir).  Other musicians on the EP include  Kyle Rowe of Cover Story (electric guitar), Wes Martin of Ol' CD (bass), Justin McCabe (bass), Ben Pierson (sax), Brad Gaudreau (trombone), Eric McIntyre (trumpet) and Port Dover's Cindy Dell (violin) and Roxanne Rendle (choir).

You can download this wondrous EP at My Flying Machine's Bandcamp Page.



Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers



Video above courtesy of Brandon General



Blast from the Past: Brandon General, Brennagh Burns and other on an episode of Ensemble!

Links: My Flying Machine, More Brandon General StoriesMore Releases

Previous (News Roundup w Boogie Infection, Daryl Gray, Steven Branchaud) - - - Next (New Shannon Lyon CD)

Thursday, November 20, 2014

News Roundup (Boogie Infection, Daryl Gray, Steven Branchaud)


News 

Local

Canada

Blasts From the Past 
Birthdays

Saturday, November 22
Sunday, November 23
Monday, November 24
Tuesday, November 25
Wednesday, November 27

Previous (Jokela/Vogan Christmas CD) - - - Next (My Flying Machine Debut EP)

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Celebrate the Season with the Jazzy Jokela Vogan CD: Wintersday


Last year, Jazz duo Jokela/Vogan (with Guelph's Ben Jokela on piano and Garth Vogan from Waterdown playing bass) released Wintersday. It's a bewitching collection of 13 mostly instrumental yuletide favourites guaranteed to warm you on those cold winter nights.

Classics like Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Silver Bells, The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting) and Winter Wonderland are given a spectacular jazzy makeover by Ben and Garth.  You'll either want to sing with to the music or just curl by the fireplace and enjoy. Melanie Caissie's angelic voice graces two superb numbers (My Favourite Things and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas).

So pick up a CD for yourself (or as a gift) by contacting the duo or going to one of their intimate live shows.



Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

Blast from the Past: Garth plays with James Anthony on a Christmas tune + other holiday videos

Links: Jokela/Vogan, More Garth Vogan Stories, More Christmas PostsMore Releases

Previous (New Matt Paxton EP) - - - Next (News Roundup w Boogie Infection, Daryl Gray, Steven Branchaud)

Sunday, November 16, 2014

Beautiful Grittiness on Mountain Eyes, the New EP from Hamilton's Matt Paxton


Hamilton singer/songwriter Matt Paxton is successfully going the bare bones route with his stunning new EP, Mountain Eyes (from Other Songs Music).  With a raw, live-off-the-floor feel, this collection has a beautiful grittiness to it.

The intimacy really stands out here thanks to the minimalist approach of Matt and his co-producer Scott Orr.  Matt's character-filled voice wrings the emotion from every enticing lyric. The EP has everything it needs.

This amazing recording is available as a Limited edition CD available at the Other Songs Music Shop.  It can be downloaded though the same site and through iTuneseMusic, or cdbaby




Blast from the Past: Matt Paxton CD-How the Land Lies

Links: Matt PaxtonMore Matt Paxton StoriesMore Releases

Previous (Brian Griffith Passes) - - - Next (Jokela/Vogan Christmas CD)

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Hamilton Loses Brian Griffith, One of Its Guitar Giants


It is with sadness that we announce the passing of the super-talented Hamilton guitarist Brian Griffith.  He passed away in his sleep on Friday, November 14, 2014.  Condolences to his family, friends and fans.

In a city full of amazing guitarists, he was one of the most in demand and sought after players.  The man could play country, soul, blues, rock, reggae and anything that was thrown at him - he was a true professional.  His amazing work led him to team up with such international stars as Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, Daniel Lanois and more.

Brian was also one of the most beloved figures in the Steeltown musical scene. His good nature and generosity as a musician will always be remembered.

A word from Lou, our blogger: "I'm sad to hear of the passing of my friend Brian.  I had seen him numerous times with different musicians and he always knocked it out of the park.  On top of that, he always had a smile and a laugh to share with me.  Brian's good nature was infectious.  I'll truly miss him"

The outpouring of love on social media was incredible.

Harrison Kennedy: " I am heartbroken deeply. He played anything and everything well on any guitar."

Shawn Brush: "Brian was a fine human being and will be missed by many. He would often greet me with a hug or a kiss on the forehead. He was a friend and a fan who admired and encouraged me with my music. I will miss him, but will endeavor to keep his presence alive and felt through my performances. I know there are many people that will miss him."

Paul Langille: "A kind gentle man with a wicked sense of humour, and one of the most talented musicians I have ever had the honour of working with."

Robin Benedict: "There is a dark cloud that is overwhelming my city tonight and forever!! Brian Griffith, you have been such a light in this Musically electric place and you have made your mark all over the world!"

Tomi Swick: "We lost one of the most amazing beautiful people and players any of us will ever know, I have your words on my skin brother. No matter where we go no matter what we do we will always be brothers of the wind."

Michael Hickey: "If one could hear love...you could certainly hear it in every note Brian played."

Paul Panchezak (Trickbag): "His phenomenal talent was surpassed by his beautiful soul. He was always an encouraging friend. A gentle man. And a gentleman. We loved sharing the latest boxing news when our paths crossed. I can't believe he's gone."

Justin Sawicki: "Brian Griffith was a pillar in the Hamilton music scene. He was was the first act I saw when I moved to Hamilton just over a decade ago. I can remember seeing him play for the first time and thinking it was impossible to do what he did with a guitar, yet somehow those impossible notes were flowing mightily out of his fingers. You will be missed dearly in this Steel Town. Your town."



Video above courtesy of Stellablu477



Links: Lori YatesMore Lori Yates StoriesVideo above courtesy of Michael Hickey

Blast from the Past: Brian Griffith Performs With Friends at Pine Street Gardens

Links: Brian Griffith, More Brian Griffith Stories

Previous (News Roundup w Jesse Elliot Band, Finis Tasby, Khea, Mike Gravitis) - - - Next (New Matt Paxton EP)