This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Hamilton Blues Lovers! On November 29, 2008, Lou, our blogger advertised a new organization dedicated to the local music scene. The rest is local music history.
It has been a spectacular 10 years. Here are some highlights:
I want to thank my beautiful wife Linda for all her help and support for all these years. I LOVE YOU! I'd also like to thank our sponsors, the incredibly talented local musicians and all the new friends I've made as a result of the HBL. HERE'S TO ANOTHER 10!
Kitchener's Brian Vollmer has stepped out from the shadow of his legendary metal band Helixto forge a dazzling new solo disc, Get Yer Hands Dirty. He goes for a more classic rock vibe with lots o' boogie thrown in for good measure. The album's hard driving and guitar driven but there's a lot of soul and funkiness in its veins.
Trebleclef experienced the marvellous Kim Deschamps for the first time when the musician returned to his hometown to play a show at Clifford Brewingin Hamilton. It was a great show!
Sonny Del Rio's annual X-Mas bash is always the highlight of the holiday season and this year's edition will be packed with fabulous music. It's also a celebration of Sonny's 75th birthday and a release party for his new live DVD/CD. Even Santa himself is planning a visit to check out the festivities.
For only $20, you 'll get the see all of the incredible bands showcased below at the Leander Boat Club in Hamilton. Sunday, November 25, 2018, 1-5pm. IT'LL BE A MAGICAL NIGHT!
Our Hamilton Blues Lovers 10th Anniversary Bashwas a smashing success. The Corktown was packed and there was lots of amazing music. Thanks to all the performers, the Corktown, sponsors, companies who donated doors prizes and all those who attended. I would like to personally thank my wife, Linda for all her hard work in planning the show and during the event as well. I LOVE YOU LINDA!
Hamilton is well-represented with Jack de Keyzer up for 2 awards (Guitarist of the Year, Producer of the Year. Jack's bandmate Richard Thornton is nominated for Horn Player of the Year. Other Hammertown nominees include Harrison Kennedy (Male Vocalist of the Year), Jesse O'Brien (Keyboardist of the Year) and Cootes Paradise (New Artists of the Year).
Also of note is Colin James' latest album, Miles to Go. It features Hamiltonians Jesse O'Brien (keys, writing), Steve Pelletier(bass)and Tom Wilson aka Lee Harvey Osmond (writing). Also, it's released by Waterdown's True North Records). That disc is up for Recording of the Year. Colin is also tied with Sue Foley for most nominations (6).
Two members of Waterloo's Soulstack, singer Jon Knight and drummer Tom Bona, were nominated as well. Another Waterloo group Elliott and the Audio Kings is in the running in the New Artistof the Year category.
Hopefully, a number of them will bring home the awards at the ceremony on February 4, 2019 at Koerner Hall in Toronto. You can help by VOTING ONLINE! Deadline is December 1, 2018 at 11:59pm.
It is with sadness that we announce that singer, songwriter, bassist, producer Mike Northcottpassed away on November 6, 2018. We will update the information as we get it. He was a member of a number of groups including Banned From Heaven, WJRMand others. He also worked as a producer for various TV shows and other media. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
"The Mike Northcott After Party" will be held on Sunday, November 18th from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. at the Boston Manor in Burlington. We welcome all who loved him to gather on this special day to share music, stories, and friendship in Mike's honour. Donations, in memory, can be made to An Instrument For Every Child at http://hamiltonmusiccollective.ca/
Mike Northcott - lead vocals, bass-Mick (as his rock’n’roll friends call him) has been singing and playing music professionally since he was 18. Originally a drummer, he moved out front where his passionate vocal wailing’s could be better heard above the din of his mediocre drumming. Mick’s day job producing music for children’s cartoons only reinforces his inability to grow up.
A word from Lou, our blogger:
I got to meet Mike a number of times over the years. It was great to see his immense talent on stage and then see his warm, friendly smile as we talked during the breaks. I will miss him.
It is with great sadness we say goodbye to our friend and musical brother Mike Northcott, who passed away today after a brave fight against pancreatic cancer. Love and condolences to Shelly , Bailey and Will and extended family. Going to miss you a lot my friend.
Mike produced our CD The Baladins in 1995 and played bass with us. I loved the production on that record. He was a good friend and a wonderful guy. Sad news.
