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Sunday, December 20, 2015

Hamilton Hometown Christmas! Part 2!

Click here for more pictures from the event (including lots with our little monkey)
On December 6, 2015. Sonny Del-Rio's 15th Annual Hamilton Hometown Rock and Roll Christmas Show came to the Bay City Music Hall.  Some of the best musical talents from the Hammer were on hand to  help raise money for charity.

Click here for Part 1 of the videos.

Here are some videos from that amazing show!



Cootes Paradise: Unnecessarily Mercenary @ Hamilton Hometown Christmas, Bay City Music Hall #HamOnt #HamOntMusic Sue Leonard Lily Sazz Wayne Krawchuk Amy Di Nino Mark Volkov and Ian Taylor
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Sunday, December 20, 2015



Cootes Paradise is a local supergroup featuring Sue Leonard (solo, Leonard Burns and Dell), Lily Sazz (Groove Corporation, Trailblazers), Wayne Krawchuk (aslo, ex Banned from Heaven), Amy DiNino (Cindy Dell Band), Mark Volkov and Ian Taylor.  This was their live debut!

Links: Video above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous





Jude Johnson, Sonny Del-Rio, Mike Malone, Paul Panchezak, Carl Horton: Silver Bells @ Hamilton Hometown Christmas, Bay City Music Hall #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Sunday, December 20, 2015



Links: Sonny Del RioMore Sonny Del Rio StoriesJude JohnsonMore Jude Johnson StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lou

If you like these videos, please click below to donate to Spec Kids Charities


Previous (Hamilton Hometown Christmas Videos, Part 1) - - - Next (Christmas Pics w Trebleclef)

Saturday, December 19, 2015

Hamilton Hometown Christmas! Part 1!

Click here for more pictures from the event (including lots with our little monkey)
On December 6, 2015. Sonny Del-Rio's 15th Annual Hamilton Hometown Rock and Roll Christmas Show came to the Bay City Music Hall.  Some of the best musical talents from the Hammer were on hand to  help raise money for charity.
Here are some videos from that amazing show!




The Smoke Wagon Blues Band: Candy Cane Swing Bay City Music Hall for the Hometown R&R Christmas #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Thursday, December 17, 2015



Links: Smoke Wagon Blues BandMore Smoke Wagon Blues Band StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous




Sonny Del-Rio and the 5 Star Revue: Fat Ass Blues @ Hamilton Hometown R&R Christmas Bay City Music Hall #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Friday, December 18, 2015



Links: Sonny Del RioMore Sonny Del Rio StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous




Jude Johnson and Friends: Jingle Bells @ Hamilton Hometown Christmas at Bay City Music Hall #HamOntMusic #HamOnt Carl Horton, Paul Panchezak, Wayne Krawchuk, Sonny Del-Rio, Lily Sazz - Musician, Mark Volkov, Mike Malone
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Saturday, December 19, 2015



Links: Jude Johnson, More Jude Johnson StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous




Cootes Paradise: Hamilton Hometown Rock and Roll Christmas @ Bay City Music Hall #HamOnt #HamOntMusic Sue Leonard Lily Sazz Wayne Krawchuk Amy Di Nino Mark Volkov and Ian Taylor
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Saturday, December 19, 2015


Cootes Paradise is a local supergroup featuring Sue Leonard (solo, Leonard Burns and Dell), Lily Sazz (Groove Corporation, Trailblazers), Wayne Krawchuk (aslo, ex Banned from Heaven), Amy DiNino (Cindy Dell Band), Mark Volkov and Ian Taylor.  This was their live debut!

Links: Video above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous

If you like these videos, please click below to donate to An Instrument for Every Child!



Previous (News Roundup: Bill Dillon, Joel Johnson Band, Dwayne LaForme) - - - Next (Hamilton Hometown Christmas, Part 2)

Thursday, December 17, 2015

News Roundup (Bill Dillon, Joel Johnson Band, Dwayne LaForme)

News Roundup will be on Christmas break.  It'll return Jan 7, 2016!


Merry Christmas, click above for a bonus Christmas video by Trickbag

News

Local

Canada
World

The Adventures of Trebleclef, the Hamilton Blues Lovers Monkey

Trebleclef checked out his good friends Trickbag at Brando's in Brantford.



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He made another visit to Hamilton's Jet Hall to catch the Joel Johnson Band w special guest Dwayne LaForme.





Joel Johnson Band (Steve Pelletier & Chris Nemeth) w Dwayne Laforme: Hoochie Coochie Man #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Saturday, December 12, 2015





Dwayne Laforme w the Joel Johnson Band (Steve Pelletier & Chris Nemeth) @ The Jet Hall #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Sunday, December 13, 2015



Links: Joel JohnsonMore Joel Johnson StoriesDwayne LaFormeMore Dwayne LaForme Stories, Videos above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Hamilton's Colin Cripps Produces a Track on Incredible New MonkeyJunk Album!


Ottawa's award-winning blues band, MonkeyJunk looked to the Hammer when choosing a producer for one of the tracks on their incredible new album, Moon Turn Red (released though Stony Plain). Hamilton's Colin Cripps (ex-Junkhouse, ex-Crash Vegas, Blue Rodeo) lent his substantial production talents to one of the hardest rockin' tracks.

The tune in question is MonkeyJunk's thunderous cover of David Wilcox's Hot Hot Papa.  The legendary David Wilcox himself lent his substantial axe skills to the song.

The rest of the album is equally powerful and funky.  These boys can really turn up the juice and make everything all swampy and bluesy.  They also manage to infuse a lot of substance musically and lyrically.  Also, listen for Big Sugar's Gordie Johnson playing the organ on the fabulous Love Attack.

You can pick up this energetic Cd at the band's live shows or via the  Stony Plain online shop.  It's available through iTunes too.








Links: MonkeyJunkMore MonkeyJunk Stories, Videos above courtesy of MonkeyJunkMore Releases

Previous  (Local YouTube Videos) - - - Next (News Roundup: Bill Dillon, Joel Johnson Band, Dwayne LaForme)

Sunday, December 13, 2015

New Album from Hamilton's Ben Caplan is Unpredictable and Immensely Enjoyable!


Halifax (but Hamilton-born) singer/songwriter Ben Caplan has sculpted an unpredictable and immensely entertaining album with Birds With Broken Wings (via Coalition Music).  You never know what he'll be hitting the listener with but they'll love it!

It has a mainly a wonderful vaudeville meets gypsy music vibe.  Ben is a man of many vocal style - he growls though a few numbers but then gets smooth and soulful just to prove he can.  Bits of folk, jazz, lounge music, new age and more just float smoothly across these unique songs.

If you're looking for something different, pick up a CD at his live shows or through his online shop (though they are currently out of stock).  You can also download it using iTunes.





Blast from the past: Ben Wins East Coast Music Award

Links: Ben CaplanMore Ben Caplan Stories, Videos above Ben CaplanMore Releases

Previous (Hamilton Harmonica Master John Hess Passes- - - Next (Local YouTube Videos)

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Hamilton Harmonica Master John Hess Passes



We are saddened to report that local harmonica player extraordinaire John Hess passes away on December 10, 2015.  He frequently played open stages throughout the Hamilton area and had played with many local musicians.  Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Tom Finochio is planning a jam in his memory on Sunday, December 13 from 3 to 9 at Rebel's Rock in Hamilton.

There were a lot of comments on social media:

Ian Andrews:
John, I thank you for the music we shared and the times we had, the stages we shared as well as the laughs and most ridiculous puns we could come up with. You always supported my music endeavors and came to every jam I've ever had. It hurts the most that I had put my busy schedule before coming to visit you in the hospital and that we never did get a chance to hang out and record - I know damn well there was ample opportunity for it. I'm sorry John, and one day down the road you and I are gonna cut that record we talked about, but for now... Rest in peace my blues brother. Everytime I hear a harp, I'll never forget...

Wayne Janus:
John was a true gentleman and he will remain close to our hearts and thought of often. Blessings to you Dear friend. W.Janus

Troy Harmer:
Hamilton lost another charismatic and dedicated blues musician this week. He was always polite, kind, helpful and positive. Every Sunday up until he got sick, he would be at the open mic I hosted with the Persuaders at the Brown Barrel. Often times he would already be there set up with his amp and harmonicas ready to go before the band arrived. We will miss you my friend.


Song above courtesy of Richard Bone

Previous (News Roundup: Pretty Archie, Bonnie Hamilton. Wendy Lynn Snider) - - - Next (New Ben Caplan Album)

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Wonderful FREE Christmas Music from Amazing Hamilton Artists


We here at Hamilton Blues Lovers recently discovered a wonderful online treasure trove of Christmas music made by amazing Hamilton artists.  The best part is that every tune is a FREE download.

Valley View Studio has 4 albums of (from 2011-2014) of mostly original holiday music from talented Hammertown artists.

The links below don't work anymore, click here to find them.

Here's what's available from 2014.  Songs can be download by right-clicking the mp3 link and saving it.

Carl Didur and Mike McLean - Bach Fugue in Dm (excerpt)
Dave Rave - Christmastide (Agnelli/DesRoches)
Doug Feaver - Merry #Christmas
Hailee Rose - Just Before Christmas (Rose/DesRoches)
Kyle Kuchmey - South for Christmas
Rick Andrew - Something About This Time
Ruth Sutherland - Silent Night
The Cosmic Ballet - Episode II: The Santa Menace
The Foley Family - The First Noel
The Sheanderthals - Christmas Blues (Holt/Cahn)
Trickbag - I Pray on Christmas (Connick Jr)



Links: More Rick Andrew Strories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

There's more music (which can be downloaded per album) here.

Previous years' compilations include fabulous songs by Ray Materick, Bill Culp, Steve Sinnicks, Sonny Del-Rio, Duane Rutter and more.



Links: Doug FeaverMore Doug Feaver StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers



Links: Les SmithMore Les Smith StoriesVideo above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

Click here for more of our Christmas stories/music.

Previous: (Help Local Artists Get on No Depression's Top of 2015 List) - - - Next (News Roundup: Pretty Archie, Bonnie Hamilton. Wendy Lynn Snider)

Sunday, December 6, 2015

GOOD LUCK! Please Help Local Artists Win a Spot in No Depression's Best of 2015 List


Popular Americana Music website/magazine No Depression is holding a readers poll for their top albums of 2015 list.  Quite a few local acts are in the running and you can help them by voting online here. Deadline is December 30, 2015!  GOOD LUCK!

Here's a list of area artists that you can vote for:

Previous (Will Gillespie Entry Chosen for Ensemble! Season 4 Theme) - - - Next (Free Christmas Music from Amazing Hamilton Musicians)

Saturday, December 5, 2015

CONGRATS! Will Gillespie's Wonderful Entry Chosen as the Ensemble! Theme for Season 4


A number of entries were considered but Hamilton singer/songwriter Will Gillespie's offering was chosen as the musical theme for the Ensemble! TV show on Cable 14! He submitted an instrumental portion of his incredible song "Out of Range" (see below for a video of the tune)

His theme will be used for the upcoming 4th season of the popular cable show.  The Hamilton Blues Lovers will also be giving him a bit of extra promotion.

CONGRATS!

Here are a few videos of Will in action









Blast from the Past: Will's CD - Chasing Shadows

Links: Will GillespieMore Will Gillespie Stories, Videos above courtesy of Will Gillespie

Previous (News Roundup: Barber Shop 3rd Anniversary, Soulstack, Lionel Lodge, Mel Monaco) - - - Next (Help Local Artists Get on No Depression's Top of 2015 List)

Thursday, December 3, 2015

News Roundup (Barber Shop 3rd Anniversary, Soulstack, Lionel Lodge, Mel Monaco)


News

Local

World

The Adventures of Trebleclef, the Hamilton Blues Lovers Monkey

Trebleclef attended the Barber Shop Podcast Open House in Hamilton to celebrate the show's 3rd Anniversary. Congrats everyone!




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He also went to see the amazing Soulstack  (with guest bassist Matt Weidinger) at the Jet Hall in Hamilton!





Jon Knight & Soulstack (w guest bassist Matt Weidinger) perform Skinny Girl at The Jet Hall in Hamilton #HamOntMusic #HamOnt
Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Thursday, December 3, 2015

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Main List of Sites
New Record Label List

Local labels and ones that have a few area artists. Email us if you know of any that should be on this list


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Links: Lionel LodgeMore Lionel Lodge storiesVideo above courtesy of Lionel Lodge

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Wicked Grin Videos


Ottawa's Maple Blues Award winning band, Murray Kinsley and Wicked Grin are heading to Hamilton on December 12, 2015.  They'll be rockin' the Jet Hall.  It promises to be a wonderful show.

Here are some videos to whet your appetite:


Previous (Preview the Unbelievable Blues Acts Coming to Jet Hall) - - - Next (News Roundup: Barber Shop 3rd Anniversary, Soulstack, Lionel Lodge, Mel Monaco)

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Unbelievable Blues Coming Soon to the Jet Hall in Hamilton!


Our good friends at BluesSource Entertainment have been putting on some unbelievable Saturday Night Blues shows at the Jet Hall in Hamilton.  There'll be many more stunning acts to come.

Tickets are generally $10 in advance and $15 at the door.  Click here to buy tickets! IT'S WELL WORTH IT!

Stay tuned for an upcoming ticket contest!

Here's a preview of what's in store for the lucky listeners.



Links: Joel JohnsonMore Joel Johnson StoriesVideo above courtesy of BluesJohnson



Links: Frank CosentinoMore Frank Cosentino StoriesVideo above courtesy of Jim Etchells



Links: Sugar Devils,  Video above courtesy of the Sugar Devils



Links: Al Lerman, More Fathead (Al's Band) StoriesVideo above courtesy of VideoHornby

Previous (Hamilton Blues Lovers Turns Seven) - - - Next (Wicked Grin Videos)

Sunday, November 29, 2015

Hamilton Blues Lovers Turns 7 Years Old!


A message from Lou, our blogger:

It was 7 years ago today (November 29) that I created a Kijiji ad announcing to the world that there was a new organization called the Hamilton Blues Lovers.  What started as a small social group evolved into a blog, Twitter feed, Facebook presence, YouTube page, a weekly e-mail newsletter and more.

One of the major highlights of the year was winning a the Hamilton Music Award for best website.  I am truly honoured!  Thank you to all who help support our website.

Another major change this year was the addition of Trebleclef, our cute little monkey mascot. He's been travelling the area meeting amazing musicians and attending spectacular venues!  I hope you've check out his adventures.

I plan to continue covering the wonderful musical scene that we are lucky enough to experience.  Thank you to all the friends I have met in my musical travels.  A special thank you to my beautiful wife Linda for her incredible marketing assistance was well as her love and support.  I LOVE YOU SWEETIE!!!!

Previous (Western Swing Authority Nominated for Ameripolitan Awards) - - - Next (Preview the Unbelievable Blues Acts Coming to Jet Hall

Saturday, November 28, 2015

GOOD LUCK! Waterloo's Western Swing Authority Nominated for Ameripolitan Music Awards! Vote for Them!


Waterloo's amazing band, The Western Swing Authority have been nominated in two categories (Western Swing Group and Western Swing Female) of the 2016 Ameripolitan Music Awards.  It's great seeing an incredible local band getting some international recognition!

From the awards website: The Ameripolitan Music Awards were created to benefit and acknowledge artists whose work does not readily conform to the tastes of today’s “country” or other music genres and organizations. It also provides fans with a means of finding these artists and their music.
Other Canadians in the running are London's Tara Dunphy for Honky Tonk Female, The Neon Stars from Vancouver (Rockabilly Group), Montreal's Bloodshot Bill (Outlaw Male) and Paul Pigat (Rockabilly Male, Musician), who's originally from Toronto and now lives on the West Coast. Former Canadian Redd Volkaert was nominated for Best Musician as well.



Video above courtesy of Tara Dunphy



Video above courtesy of TheNitroGrettsch

You can even help by voting for them by clicking here!  Voting ends December 26, 2015. GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

Here's a complete list of nominees

Western Swing Group
Western Swing Male
Honky Tonk Group
Honky Tonk Male
Rockabilly Female
Outlaw Group 
Outlaw Female
Venue
Festival
DJ
Blast from the Past: Members of WSA Win 2016 Canadian Country Music Awards

Previous (News Roundup: Christine Leakey, Ron Hynes Passes, Ian Reid, Cartoons) - - - Next (Hamilton Blues Lovers Turns Seven)