Links: Irish Mythen, More Irish Mythen Stories, Video above courtesy of Lynn Hemeon
This is a great mix of styles and personalities. Many of you will remember Tia and Tommy from their show 5 years ago. They have such an emotional connection that there were audience members with tears rolling down their faces. Last year Tia was shortlisted for an Americana Grammy award!
What else can you say about Lynn Miles other than that she is one of the all time great singer songwriters anywhere. And for her return she brings along one of Canada's best guitarists, Keith Glass!
We have never had a performer before quite like Steve Poltz. He is a wild crazy guy who often makes up songs on the spot. Here's a sample of his true self: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N8F84RRhlY His song "You Were Meant for Me" (sung by his then girlfriend Jewel) was on the Billboard charts for more than 65 weeks.
Irish Mythen is now from PEI and before that from guess where. She brings a Celtic edge and a powerful voice.
Subscriptions are now available for only $89 + HST. Yes! For all 4 concerts! Hard to believe. Call the Carnegie Gallery at 905-627-4265 to make your purchase or stop by in person. The last two years we have sold out our limit of 100 subscriptions so don't wait too long. Call now! And with thanks to one of our excellent sponsors, Michelle and Bob Edmonds at electracomminications.com, you can check out all this info on our website www.freewheelinconcerts.com At this point we can also sell up to 20 tickets for each individual show.
Enjoy your summer and get ready for our eleventh season of fabulous live acoustic roots music.
Possessing one of the most expressive voices in Country Music, Tia McGraff is at her peak on her newest album, Crazy Beautiful. With songs that blur the lines between Pop-Folk and Alt-Country, it wonderfully mixes both into a beautiful sound.
It contains a well-balanced collection of rockin' hooks, mid-tempo foot tappers and tender ballads. The excitement and wonder just oozes out of the speakers.
The CD is available at cdbaby (also as a download) or through her website.
Videos above courtesy of WhisperingBobTV EXTRA MINI-REVIEW! Some albums escape our radar, so occasionally we'll be catching up with some mini-reviews!
2010's Diversityboats a number of amazing storytelling songs enhanced by her distinct vocals. Lyrically, it veers from politics, love, motivation and all points in between. This is a wonderful album!
If you're sick of the usual "dull pop with a twang" country music that's out there, Tia McGraff's latest CD, Break These Chains is the cure for what ails you.
This local singer/songwriter really knows how to craft a song. The storytelling and honest lyrics are just first class. Tia's angelic voice just stands out on every track as well.
She's also not afraid to expand her sound. Bits of folk, rock and even some east coast influences pepper the music. Each tune has it's own spirit and feel!
Joining this talented lady are her husband (and producer, co-writer) Tommy Parham (guitar) and Johnathan Edwards (guitar, bass, mandolin). Guests include Ian Bell on accordion and Jim Kimball (from Reba's band) on harmonica
Shortly after losing the legendary Stompin' Tom, Canada has lost another musical icon. The incredible Rita MacNeil passed away April 16, 2013 after complications from surgery. Our condolences to her family, friends, and fans. She will be missed.
As always, reaction was swift on social media. Here are a few highlights.
John M Crawford: "I am so devistated that Rita McNeil is gone. What a voice and an entertainer we lost. God bless her family and thank you Rita for giving us such wonderfull music."
Tia McGraff: "OH I am so sad to hear about the passing of Rita MacNeil. She was one of Canada's most amazing voices and songwriters."
Stephen Fearing: "So long Rita MacNeil. You were a sweet soul with a voice to match it. RIP."
Jann Arden: "Love you Rita MacNeil! Such an honor to do your show many times in the 90ties!! Brilliant writer, wonderful singer! Safe travels!"
Eric Alper: "There was no finer, kinder, authentic woman I have ever worked with than Cape Breton's Rita MacNeil."
Canadian icon and music legend Stompin' Tom Connors passed away on March 6, 2013 of natural causes at the age of 77. He was a beloved musician who trancended genres and generations. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
The singer/songwriter left a letter to his fans to be released after his death:
Hello friends, I want all my fans, past, present, or future, to know that without you, there would have not been any Stompin' Tom.
It was a long hard bumpy road, but this great country kept me inspired with its beauty, character, and spirit, driving me to keep marching on and devoted to sing about its people and places that make Canada the greatest country in the world.
I must now pass the torch, to all of you, to help keep the Maple Leaf flying high, and be the Patriot Canada needs now and in the future.
I humbly thank you all, one last time, for allowing me in your homes, I hope I continue to bring a little bit of cheer into your lives from the work I have done.
Sincerely,
Your Friend always,
Stompin' Tom Connors
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Ronnie "the Hawk" Hawkins was interviewed on CHCH about the superstar. He told a story about worrying about Tom when he played to university kids who don't usually like his style of music. Tom earned a standing ovation from them. "I haven't worried about him since." The Hawk exclaimed.
Local reaction came quickly on social media. Here are a few highlights:
David Crossley (Deacons): "You can't really explain to people in other parts of the world who (or how important) Stompin' Tom was, because there really is no equivalent in other cultures"
Dave Gould: "Tom Connors has inspired me more than almost any singer/songwriter in my life. His lyrics got me through elementary school geography. I owe a big part of my appreciation for Canada to him. I am sad he is gone. R.I.P. Tom."
Tia McGraff: "Thank you Stompin' Tom for all your great music, and honoring Canada!
You are in our hearts and music forever."