You can shake off the COVID-19 Blues by listening to Downstream, the fabulous sophomore album from local supergroup, Cootes Paradise.
Cootes lays down some funky, bluesy soul that'll shake off your woes and get your body movin'. The band can boogie it up better than any other band out there and they have the skills to show them how it's done.
We asked local singers to comment on her unforgettable career. We may add more as we get them. Donna Panchezak (Trickbag)
Aretha Franklin was a tremendous inspiration to myself and many aspiring female vocalists. Her ability to immerse herself in a song so that when she sang and performed on piano, the true essence of her soul and humanity emanated was unsurpassed. She was able to connect with her audience on a spiritual level and although her physical presence has been lost her essence lives on forever...God Bless the one and only, "Queen of Soul"!
Right Now I have no words to express what she meant to me .... no words at all ... I keep posting and reposting other peoples comments video clips because I am taken aback by the enormity of her talent and what a Hole there is in the universe ... there will be no one like her ever ... there has never been anyone like her ... she was a musical genius, spirit of God who knew and understood her gift more than anyone in the universe and shared it with us all without judgement .... my heavens ... RIP Aretha Franklin YES Queen OF SOUL
Pretty much everything about the self-titled debut album of Dundas band Cootes Paradise screams 'world-class'. From the beautiful look of the CD art to the phenomenal production and, of course, the astonishing music - it's all impressive.
It's no wonder since Cootes Paradise is a super-group. Members include:
Together, they've forged a collection of well-crafted songs that are bluesy, funky, soulful and more. Each and every song has its own unique flavour. They all have the talent to pull off this wondrous genre-blending with panache.
To top it all off, there's the legendary Nick Blagona doing production, mixing and mastering (as well as some percussion). Other highlights include a visit from the remarkable Grand River Voices choir on one track and some extraordinary co-writing by Sharon Washington, Daniel Cavasant, Tom Shea and others.
You've gotta get your hands on this album so pick it up at one of the group's unforgettable live shows. Stores carrying the CD include Dr. Disc in Hamilton and Ellënoire in Dundas. It's also available through their website, cdbabyand itunes.
Recordings from Grammy-Nominated Hamilton Singer/SongwriterKyle Paceyare an all too rare occurrence. Luckily, he recently released an amazing album that's well worth the wait. So Close, his latest collection, features him at his best. Brimming with rocking, high-stepping tunes, the CD is a high-caliber affair. Blues, rock, jazz, swing, folk and more blend together with Kyle's unique voice to create an impressive mix of powerful tunes.
The Adventures of Trebleclef, the Hamilton Blues Lovers Monkey Trebleclefwent to theCollective Arts Brewingopen house. The Hamilton company teams up with the artistic community to create wonderful products.
Separately, local performers Sue Leonard, Brennagh BurnsandCindy Dell are three of the most talented solo musicians around. When these ladies connect together, they forge an unmistakable, powerful folk sound packed with sultry blues and sweet soul! The trio, now known as Leonard Burns & Dell have released their debut EP (from Sonic Magpie Records) titled after their former band name, Perfect Strangers.
With an impressive mix of amazing vocal stylings, LBD take each well-crafted song and give it a grit and shine all its own. On top of of everything, these singer/songwriters offer up some beautiful, angelic harmonies.
Pick up a CD at their wonderful live shows or order via the Sonic Magpie Store(downloads available). If you prefer, it can also be purchased through iTunes.
As soon as you hear Sue Leonard's voice on her new EP, Leonardville (from Race Records), you know the lady means business. This Hamilton-born singer/songwriter can rock you as well as soothe you.
Everything starts with an incredible bang thanks to Bye Baby, the high-energy opening track. What follows is a wonderful mix of pop, rock and soul. After Sue is done shaking your body, she soothes your soul with two beautiful lighter tunes (Quietude and Angel).
On most of the tracks, the singer is expertly backed by Bill Dillon on guitars and bass, Dave King on Drums, and Georgie Fab (Ronnie and the Rockets) on guitar. Jesse O'Brien plays piano on a track as well. The whole gang do a superb job.
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