Strange Weather, the debut full-length album from Hamilton's Matty Simpsonwill grab you, shake you, and take you on a wild ride you'll never forget. From its opening salvo of classic rock meets alternative (Come Upstairs) to the rootsy beauty of the closing number (Headlights on the Horizon), each song demand your attention.
Matty's made quite the opening statement to kick off his recording career. The guitar wails and the vocals punch through to make themselves known. Most of the tunes are hard rockin', infectious and powerful. The slower tunes also show off his incredible versatility.
Justine Fischer (bass, keys) and Matt Burns (drums, percussion) round out the trio that made that deliver this musical manifesto. They do an amazing job of adding to the incredible sound of the piece. All three produced the disc as well, along with Jeff Ciraolo and Andrew Aldridge.
On Friday, October 26, the 2018 winners of the Hamilton SpectatorReaders' Choice Awardswere unveiled. The special supplemental section featured the best that Hammertown has to offer, including our wonderful music community.
Hamilton guitar slinger Matty Simpson has released a limited edition, self-titled teaser EP to offer up a taste of his upcoming album. This 5-song recording has all the musical impact of a full-length album.
It kicks off with a trio of hard-drivin' bluesy rock tracks that mean business. Every song is fueled by Matty's phenomenal guitarwork, songwriting and dynamic vocals. The final two tracks feature an exquisite, rootsy, unplugged sound. Matty proves equally adept at the acoustic guitar and harmonica.
He has some world-class musicians by his side on the initial 3 tunes: Justine Fischer (bass) and Matt Burns (drums). The EP is also co-produced by Andrew Aldridge and Jeff Ciraolo.
Please note that the full-length release will feature different musical arrangements than those on this teaser EP.
You can pick up this limited edition CD at any of his amazing live shows or by contacting him through his website.
Hamilton songstress Sarah Beattyhas really outdone herself with her latest unbelievable album, Bandit Queen. She's done an amazing job evolving into an unpredictable, genre-fusing singer/songwriter.
There's no pinning her down on this recording: going from soulful chanteuse to ragtime gal to heartfelt balladeer and beyond. Bandit Queen showcases an incredible versatility and range. Every song has it's own feel and you never know what she's gonna hit you with next!
If you're looking for something truly multi-faceted, you can pick up her CD at Dr. Discand Cheapiesin Hamilton plus Forch's (Cambridge) and Busted Flat (Kitchener). It can also be purchased through her online shopor iTunes.
There's nothing quite like aFred Eaglesmithalbum. Fred's a master Americana storyteller whose voice echoes with feeling. His latest disc, Standardcontinues that tradition with a sparse, beautiful sound.
As always, Fred and the band mix traditional country music with a folk sensibility and fabulous lyrics. His voice is a little more prominent in the mix than usual and it's used to the fullest effect. The evocative, almost-rough vocals are gripping.
Fred's joined by his impressive, multi-instrumental wife, Tif Ginn. Matty Simpson(guitar), Justine Fischer (bass), Kori Heppner (drums), and Blue Passalacqua (vocals) also use their immense talents to lend a hand.
Make sure you get a copy of this superb CD. You can pick one up at any of Fred's unforgettable shows. They're also available at iTunesand amazon.ca
Hamilton Spectatorreaders have spoken!Votes were tallied for the 25th anniversary edition of the paper's Readers' Choice Awards. Hammertown's amazing music scene was well represented.
2016 marks the 25th anniversary of the Hamilton SpectatorReaders' Choice Awards. As always there are a number of musicians nominated in the Local Musician Bandcategory and there are many other music-related categories as well. You can have your voice heard by voting! Deadline is Spetember 26, 2016 at 11:30pm.