Showing posts with label Freedom Train. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Freedom Train. Show all posts
Sunday, July 5, 2026
Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Canada Day Videos by Carl Jennings, Golden Beaver, Fern Viola
Update of 2020 Post
Links: Freedom Train, More Freedom Train Stories, Video above courtesy of Freedom Train
Links: Golden Beaver, More Golden Beaver Stories, Video above courtesy of Killin' Time
Links: Fern Viola, More Fern Viola Stories, Video above courtesy of Fern Viola - Topic
More Canada Day Videos!
Previous (Reggae Day Videos) - - - Next (Throwback Thursday: Lee Harvey Osmond DVD: Live at Tractorgrease)
Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Christmas Videos by Paul James, Raoul Bhaneja, Steve Strongman, Dave Rave, Chris Ayries & André Bisson
Links: Paul James, More Paul James Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers
Links: Raoul and the Big Time, More Raoul Bhaneja Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers
Links: Steve Strongman, More Steve Strongman Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers
Links: Dave Rave, More Dave Rave Stories, Video above courtesy of Dave Rave - Topic
Links: Chris Ayries, More Chris Ayries Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers
Links: Andre Bisson, More Andre Bisson Stories, Video above courtesy of André Bisson
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Community Votes Hamilton 2025 - Deadline is May 18
From April 16 to May 18, citizens of the Hammer can cast a ballot in Community Votes Hamilton 2025.
Below are the music-related nominees.
- Alfie Smith
- Andre Bisson Band
- Boomtown Band
- Born in The 80s
- Freedom Train
- Goddess
- The Hammer Tones
- Hollow Core
- The John Atlee Band
- Midnight Hombres
- Pulse X
- Slap Entertainment and Productions
- Cameron Michael Caton AKA Covid-Elvis
- Christopher Bull (Eelev8 Dance)
- Danielle Viola - Curtain Call Performing Arts Company
- Dustin Jodway - Hamilton Theatre Inc - Something Rotten
- Eshe YıLdıZ - Dance Instructor
- Hexe Noire - Drag Queen
- Karma Kameleon, Drag, Comedy
- Matthew Moore - Hamilton Theatre Inc
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Sister Act Jr
- St. John Boy - Drag
- Will Gillespie
- Baby Butcher
- Cameron Michael Caton AKA Covid-Elvis
- Chasing Shadows Productions
- Curtain Call Performing Arts Company
- Danielle Viola - Curtain Call Performing Arts Company
- Freedom Train
- Hamilton Academy of Performing Arts
- Hamilton Theatre
- HäUs of The Holy Spirit
- Hexe Noire - Drag Queen
- It's Your Festival
- Olivia Jodway - Red Tree Performance Academy
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Sister Act Jr
- Picks & Sticks Music (One of our Sponsors!)
- Ancaster Music Academy
- Ania Fritch Music Studio
- Aurora Benedicto - Red Tree Performance Academy
- Celine's Voice Studio
- Curtain Call Performing Arts Company
- Danielle Viola Private Vocals
- Davie Brideau - Red Tree Performance Academy
- Dundas Conservatory Of Music
- Elev8 Dance Inc
- Emerson Arts Theatrical Productions
- Emilee Cuthbert - MC² Music
- Footprints Music Hamilton
- Guitar Lessons With Adam Scott
- Hamilton Academy Of Music
- Hamilton Academy of Performing Arts
- Long & McQuade Musical Instruments
- Mason Micevski Vocal Lessons
- Michael Cuthbert - MC² Music
- Mr. Ben's Music
- Nicole Christian
- Red Tree Performance Academy
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Dustin Jodway/ Vocal Coach
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Luis Arrojo - Piano
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Special Needs Services
- Studio E
- Tabone Academy Of Music
- Ania Fritch Music Studio
- Aurora Benedicto - Red Tree Performance Academy
- Curtain Call Performing Arts Company
- Danielle Viola Private Vocals
- Davie Brideau - Red Tree Performance Academy
- Emilee Cuthbert - MC² Music
- Michael Cuthbert - MC² Music
- Red Tree Performance Academy
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Dustin Jodway/ Vocal Coach
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Luis Arrojo - Piano
- Red Tree Performance Academy - Special Needs Services
We'd also appreciate a vote for one of our incredible sponsors, Judy Marsales Real Estate
Previous (Throwback Thursday: Mel Brown Passes) - - - Next (Living Blues Award Nominees)
Thursday, December 7, 2023
Unforgettable Tracks on New SG Sinnicks EP
It's been a while since we've heard new studio recordings from veteran Hamilton artist SG (Steve) Sinnicks. Thankfully, his newest wonderful EP, Fridge Magnet breaks that silence! Listeners (and fridges) will be all the better for it.
SG's a talented musician and this new collection is a must for fans of singer/songwriters who can craft a song the old-fashioned way. Every tune tells a tale with impact, With his trademark wit and great lyricism, SG fashions six unforgettable tracks. The physical CD also comes with a free fridge magnet as an extra bonus!
A number of great musicians help out on the EP: Carl Jennings (Freedom Train) on bass, Randall Hill on mandolin, Mike Boguski (Blue Rodeo) on keyboards, and Bill Majoros and Steve Petrie (Blind River Band) on guitars.
You can purchase the CD (and fridge magnet) at SG's live shows or through his online shop. It also be downloaded on Apple Music or streamed through YouTube and Spotify.
Stream the album below
Links: Steve Sinnicks, More Steve Sinnicks Stories, Videos above courtesy of S.G. Sinnicks - Topic, More Releases
Previous (Myles Goodwyn of April Wine Passes) - - - Next (Metal Day Videos)
Thursday, February 2, 2023
Vote for the 2023 Hamilton Community News Readers' Choice Awards
Here's a list of nominees from the music-related categories.
- Andy G and Friends
- Binbrook Little Theatre
- Giggles The Clown
- Lion's Heart Family Martial Arts
- Messy Play Studio
- Mr. Ben's Music
- NJADS - Not Just Another Dance Studio
- Telling Tales Festival
- Zacada Circus School
- Anthony Goodine - Picks & Sticks (an HBL Sponsor)
- Andre Bisson
- Big Johnny Blue
- Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre
- Binbrook Little Theatre
- Burlington Performing Arts Centre
- Dundas Little Theatre
- FirstOntario Centre
- FirstOntario Concert Hall
- Hamilton Convention Centre By Carmens
- Spice Factory
- Theatre Aquarius
- Westdale
- Andre Bisson Band
- Big Johnny Blue
- Cameron Michael Caton a.k.a. Covid-Elvis
- Carl Jennings - Freedom Train
- Chris Newman (Keep The Faith)
- Daryl Gray
- Ian Wood
- Jay Askee (Rock City The Band)
- Mike Woods
- Paula Tessaro Band
- Rob Leonard (Acoustically Yours)
- Rob Reed (Rock City The Band)
- Sarah Smith
- Ancaster Lifestyle Fall Home Show
- Dundas Buskerfest
- Dundas Cactus Festival
- Festival Of Friends
- Hamilton Boat, Fishing & Outdoor Show
- Hamilton RV Show
- Hamilton Tiger-Cats
- Northern Heat Rib Series (Hamilton/Hamilton Mountain Ribfest)
- Side Hustle Events
- Soupfest
- Supercrawl
- Telling Tales Festival
- Winona Peach Festival
- Alyssa Michalsky - Divine Harp
- Anita Hiripi - Cricket Chamber Orchestra
- Ben Bowen - Mr. Ben's Music
- Crystal Lee - Crystal Sound Music
- Danielle Musgrave-Bond - ECE Music Program, NJADS - Not Just Another Dance Studio
- Dave Simpson - Long & McQuade
- Kaz Chrapka - The Music Stand
- Marta Greda-Kicek - Hamilton Academy of Performing Arts
- Mate Szigeti - Cricket Chamber Orchestra
- Paula Tessaro - Tabone Academy of Music Inc.
- Rosemary Hale - Long & McQuade,Garden City Orchestra
- Sean McAllister
- Steve McRae
- Sylvia Nieboer - Ontario Conservatory Of Music
Also, our blogger's workplace, St. Charles Adult and Continuing Education Centres is nominated in the Adult Education category and he'd appreciate a vote.
Saturday, June 25, 2022
Happy World Beatles Day! Covers by Jacob Moon, Christopher Clause, Freedom Train, Hailee Rose w Dave Rave
Update of 2018 Post
Links: Christopher Clause, More Christopher Clause Stories, Video above courtesy of Shotgun Jilly
Links: Freedom Train, More Freedom Train Stories, Video above courtesy of Freedom Train
Links: Dave Rave, More Dave Rave Stories, Hailee Rose, More Hailee Rose Stories, Video above courtesy of WillerMusicVideo
Links: Beatles, More Beatles Covers/Stories
Sunday, February 20, 2022
Happy Family Day! Videos by TrebleTones, Laura & Ron Cole, Freedom Train & Sarah Jennings
Links: TrebleTones (singer/guitarist & bassist are married), Video above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous
Links: Laura Cole (daughter, vocals), More Laura Cole Stories, More Ron Cole (father, keys) Stories, Video above courtesy of The Basement Sessions
Links: Freedom Train featuring brothers Tim (drums) & Carl Jennings (bass) Carl's daughter Sarah on vocals, More Freedom Train Stories, Video above courtesy of Freedom Train
Click here for more Family Day videos.
Previous (Blues Music Award Nominations) - - - Next (David Carte Passes)
Previous (Blues Music Award Nominations) - - - Next (David Carte Passes)
Tuesday, November 30, 2021
Hamilton Music Promotor Jim Skarratt Passes
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of musician and music promotor Jim Skarratt. Our condolences to his family and friends.
Below is his obituary:
James Anthony SKARRATT passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on November 25, at the age of 76. Predeceased by his wife Lois (Doel) and his son David. He will be missed by his family and his extended Lazy Flamingo family. Jim was active in the community for decades starting as Program Director at his Alma Matter, McMaster University and then with Skarratt Promotions which brought concerts and entertainment to Hamilton for five decades. He was also an accomplished musician, playing tenor sax with Bobby Washington and the Soul Society. In the 90's his promotion office evolved into the Lazy Flamingo, which continues to serve and entertain the community of Hamilton. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the PSWs and support staff for their care. Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 11, at 11 a.m. the MARLATT FUNERAL HOME "Swackhamer Chapel", 195 King Street West, Dundas. For those who wish, the service will be live streamed at www.marlattfhdundas.com
Proof of full vaccination, along with government issued ID, are mandatory to attend indoor funeral services for those age 12 and older. Masks are required.
Here are a some social media reactions:
Carl Jennings (Freedom Train)
How cool was Jim Skarratt? Super cool.
When I was a teenager in the 80’s I was fanatical about knowing all about the music scene, including knowing who’s who in the Hamilton area.
It was a no-brainer that I knew who Jim Skarratt was.
Jim headed his own record label, and he was one of Canada’s top concert promoters, bringing in acts like Frank Zappa, The Bee Gees, Cat Stevens, Neil Young, Chicago, The Turtles, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Tony Bennett, Billy Connolly and so many more - and Jim lived right here in Hamilton!
I was admittedly nervous when I first met Jim back in 1992.
I managed to arrange a meeting in his office located on the top floor above his new business venture: a pub he owned in Hess Village called The Lazy Flamingo.
My group Speck Jennings was trying keep our head above water with our original music.
To keep working, we decided on a plan to play covers under the name Freedom Train to try to break into corporate events and cool venues, hopefully managing to keep performing as full time musicians.
Jim suggested that we play at his pub every Tuesday night, practice the tunes and build an audience.
The Lazy Flamingo only had acoustic single and duo acts at that time.
Because we would be the first full rock band with drums playing in a pub in Hess Village, Jim said if people inside or outside complain that it’s too loud we’ll just stop the arrangement.
That meeting changed my life as we ended up playing The Lazy Flamingo every Tuesday night, year round, for 13 years!
So many relationships were built during those years, musicians coming together, staff, music lovers, it was a magical time.
Jim was there for most of our Tuesday shows, drink in hand, welcoming the guest musicians and customers with his warmth and charm.
Jim helped us by breaking Freedom Train into corporate shows, special events, and in 2000 he was solely responsible for booking us to play Massey Hall, one of our top musical moments ever.
Meeting Jim, knowing Jim and his family, our Tuesdays at the Flamingo, was a catalyst for our CAREER.
So THANK YOU Jim, for helping so many, especially all of us musicians, and for being super cool!
RIP
Jim Skarratt helped to make Hess Village what it was - and still is. Him and his son Jay Skarratt kept live music going in the village when most other bars didn't. He helped the music scene in Hamilton and should be remembered and honoured for helping to make this city the music capital of Canada. You did great things Jim; you'll be missed. Cheers to the Skarratt family. Condolences.
As so many friends have posted the Skarratt family have been an institution for musicians in Hamilton for decades. The Lazy Flamingo gave so many musicians a chance to cut their teeth, to hone their craft and to play their best for appreciative music loving people. Jim Skarratt was a friend and supporter to and for me from the day I met him, he let me know he cared every single time I ever saw him. He and his family gave us all an unconditional home all these years. No matter how messed up any of us were or got once you were family you had a place . For a family that has been through so much Jay Skarratt,Steve Skarratt 😞 I’m so sorry for the loss. I love you guys. As you know you have a massive extended family of brothers and sisters in your corner. RIP JIM thank you for everything
Click here for more Jim Skarrat Stories
Previous (Hamilton Blues Lovers Turns 13) - - - Next (Canadian Country Music Award Winners)
Sunday, November 7, 2021
50th Anniversary of 'Led Zeppelin IV' + Local Covers
Today (November 8, 2021) is the 50th anniversary of Led Zeppelin's 4th album (though officially untitled, most people know it as Led Zeppelin IV or ZOSO)
Trivia:
- Release date: November 8, 1971on Atlantic Records
- Produced by Jimmy Page
- Recorded partially at Abbey Road.
- Guests: Sandy Denny (Fairport Convention), vocals on 'Battle of Evermore' and Ian Stewart (Rolling Stones on 'Rock and Roll')
Below are a few local covers of songs from the album.
And now a song from the band:
Links: Led Zeppelin, More Led Zeppelin Stories, Sandy Denny, Video above courtesy of Led Zeppelin, More Album 50th Anniversaries
Previous (World Saxophone Day Videos) - - - Next (Remembrance Day Videos)
Thursday, May 27, 2021
Local Musician, Teacher, Store Owner Bob Kirkpatrick Passes
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of bassist, artist, teacher and business owner, Bob Kirkpatrick. The former Hamiltonian and current Oakville resident passed away on May 26, 2021. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
Social Media Reaction
Andrew Kirkpatrick (son)
My father Bob Kirkpatrick passed away this morning. Many of you knew him from the stores he used to own. Music was his passion and he loved to share that with with world. Although sometimes stubborn, he touched many lives for the better. There was so much more I wish I got to experience and see with you. I love you dad ❤️ I wish we got more time together.
Carl Jennings (Freedom Train)
He was my first bass teacher when I was 12.
He always kept in touch and showed an interest in everything I did since my early teen years.
In my late twenties, I rented the basement of his music store in Burlington, where I operated my first recording studio.
Bob was my "landlord" for 8 years, and he was helpful, generous, and supportive the whole time.
He has helped, hired, mentored and loved MANY local musicians ever since I've known him.
Thank you for all that you did for me Bob!
Keith Richards (local musician)
It is with a heavy and broken heart that I have to say goodbye to my good friend, former bandmate and superb human being in Mr. Bob Kirkpatrick .... or as I called him " Rock Bobster! Along side our drummer and vocalist George Kaloxilos , Bob would bring his knowledge and experience into our band and provide the groove. I loved the man and was shaken up when I heard of his passing away this morning. God bless you and your loved ones Mr. Kirkpatrick! May healing come soon for us here on earth and may you rest peacefully in the hands of God Bob. ..... you will be dearly missed. ❤ Thank you for gracing my life.
Video above courtesy of Sylvia Richards
Previous (Ron Baumber Passes) - - - Next (Canal Bank Blues Shuffle Founder Passes)
Monday, February 1, 2021
Happy Play Your Ukulele Day ft Carl Jennings and Friends
Links: Dave Rave, More Dave Rave Stories, Video above courtesy of Dave Rave, More Beatles Covers/Stories
Previous (Black History Month Videos) - - - Next (Day 1 of Maple Blues Awards)
Saturday, June 13, 2020
CONGRATS ! 2020 Hamilton Community News Readers' Choice Awards Winners!
Click here for full list.
Music-related categories below.
Best Local Musician or Band
- Diamond: Mike Woods
Links: Mike Woods, More Mike Woods Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers
- Platinum: Freedom Train
- Gold: Robin Benedict / Ruby Entertainment / The King Jives
- Diamond: Tone Deaf / Jack De Keyzer
Links: Tone Deaf, More ToneDeaf Stories, Video above courtesy of ToneDeafCanada
Links: Jack de Keyzer, More Jack de Keyzer Stories, Video above courtesy of Twentyfive Musical
- Platinum: Ian Wood / Bareback Riders / Retro Party Groove
- Gold: Bud and Jeff / The Something Country Band / The Feels / Party Source Entertainment / Fidel / Dave Murphy Band / Chery ST. James / All About Maggie
- Diamond: Hamilton City Ballet Orchestra
- Platinum: Pub Fiction
- Gold: Theatre Aquarius
- Diamond: Powerhouse Restaurant
- Platinum: 33 Bowen / The 1515 (Brown Barrel)
- Gold: Vicars Vice
- Diamond: Dundas Cactus Festival / Winona Peach Festival
- Platinum: Dundas Buskerfest / Supercrawl
- Gold: It's Your Festival / Mountain Kidz Klub Easter Egg Hunt
- Diamond: Carolyn's Model & Talent / Geoffrey Chapman Model & Talent Agency / H&G Entertainer Services
- Platinum: Vogue Models and Talent Management
- Gold: Blue Angel Productions
- Diamond: Marta Greda-Kicek
- Platinum: Anita Hiripi / Mate Szigeti
- Gold: Kaz Chrapka / Steve McRae
- Diamond: Hamilton Academy Of Performing Arts
- Platinum: Long & McQuade
- Gold: Hamilton Academy Of Music
- Diamond: Long & McQuade
- Platinum: The Acoustic Room
- Gold: Mountain Music / The Music Stand
Previous (Portugal Day Videos) - - - Next (Polaris Long List)
Monday, November 18, 2019
CONGRATS! 2019 Hamilton Spectator Readers' Choice Awards
The 2019 Hamilton Spectator Readers' Choice Awards were recently unveiled. The special supplemental section featured the best that Hammertown has to offer, including our wonderful music community.
Here's a list of all the music-related winners.
D = Diamond (1st place)
P = Platinum (2nd place)
G = Gold
Everything else is in the top ten.
- D: The Beelays
Links: The Beelays, More Beelays Stories, Video above courtesy of The Beelays
- P: Freedom Train
Links: Freedom Train, More Freedom Train Stories, More Beatles Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Freedom Train
- G: John Atlee
Links: John Atlee, More John Atlee Stories, Video above courtesy of John Atlee
- D: Hamilton School of Music
- P: Mr. Ben's Open Door Music
- G: Hamilton Suzuki School of Music
- D: Halo
- P: Blue Tilt Studio / Grant Avenue Studio
- G: QED Media / BOXO Studio / Catherine North Studios / Studio 410 Sound Productions / Downtown Sound Recording Studios
A special congrats to one of our sponsors, Picks N Sticks, who won Diamond for Musical Instrument Store.
CONGRATS EVERYONE!
Blast from the Past: Last Year's Winners
Links: Readers' Choice Awards, More Spec Readers' Choice Awards Stories
Previous (Waterloo Region Record Readers Choice Awards) - - - Next (Hamilton Musicans' Guild Honourees)
Saturday, January 12, 2019
Steeltown's Own Dave Rave Creates a Wild Ride with 'Adventureland'
When you get yourself a copy of Adventureland, the latest infectious effort by Hamilton music legend, Dave Rave, buckle up for a very wile ride. It's a roller coaster that'll keep you thrilled from beginning to end.
Jam-packed with the melodic, catchy pop rock that Dave's best known for, this ferocious recording captures the rambunctious, boundless energy he always displays on stage. From punky rhythmic workouts to softer tunes, Dave and the gang'll guide you through this unforgettable jaunt.
His main partners on this trip are the three members of Steeltown stalwarts Freedom Train. FT bassist and vocalist Carl Jennings also does a great job with producing the album.
Many other talented guests lend their flair to the project, including:
- Jim Casson (drums)
- Dina Bach (piano, vocals)
- Bill Culp (bass)
- Mark Foley (guitar)
- Darren Lachance (guitar)
- Lauren Agnelli (bass, vocals)
- Tim Allard (organ)
- Bruce Tourney (keyboards)
- Rempe Kooij (guitar)
- Chris Peck (drums)
- Ben Parent (guitar)
- Matthew Male (percussion)
- Anthony Di Carlo (guitar, vocals)
- Paolo Di Carlo (drums, vocals)
- Anthony Medico (keys, vocals)
- Chris Turpin (keys, vocals)
- Matt Gouette (drums)
Blast from the Past: Review of Dave Rave's Ashtray Makeup Album
Links: Dave Rave, More Dave Rave Stories, Freedom Train, More Freedom Train Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers, More Releases
Previous: (News Roundup: Hamilton Musicians' Guild, Spencer Mackenzie, Passings, More)
Monday, November 5, 2018
CONGRATS! 2018 Spectator Readers' Choice Award Winners!
On Friday, October 26, the 2018 winners of the Hamilton Spectator Readers' Choice Awards were unveiled. The special supplemental section featured the best that Hammertown has to offer, including our wonderful music community.
Here's a list of all the music-related winners.
P = Platinum (1st place)
D = Diamond (2nd place)
G = Gold
Everything else is in the top ten.
- P: Freedom Train
Links: Freedom Train, More Freedom Train Stories, More Rush Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Freedom Train
- D: Carl Jennings (Freedom Train)
- G: John Atlee
Links: John Atlee, More John Atlee Stories, Video above courtesy of John Atlee
Top Ten
- Brad Soucie
- Chris Wheeler (guitar)
- Darcy Feaver
- Ginger St. James
- Laura Cole
- Liam McGlashon
- Matty Simpson
- P: FirstOntario Concert Hall (aka Hamilton Place)
- D: FirstOntario Centre (aka Copps Coliseum)
- G: This Ain't Hollywood
- P: Tracie's Place
- D: FirstOntario Concert Hall (aka Hamilton Place)
- G: This Ain't Hollywood
- P: Sotyria Violaris (Intune)
- D: Adam Scott
- G: Adrean Farrugia
- P: Pick N Sticks
- D: Long and McQuade
- G: Acoustic Room
- P: Halo
- D: BOXO Studio
- G: QED Media
- P: Cheapies
- D: Into the Abyss
- G: Dr. Disc
A special congrats to one of our sponsors, Picks N Sticks, who won platinum for Musical Instrument Store and Gold for Music School:
We would also like to give a shout out to our Blogger's workplace, the St. Charles Adult Education Centre who won Platinum in the Adult Education category and Diamond in the Learning Centre category.
CONGRATS EVERYONE!
Blast from the Past: Last Year's Winners
Links: Readers' Choice Awards, More Spec Readers' Choice Awards Stories
Previous (News Roundup: Polaris Heritage Prize, Dave Rave, NAMMYS, more) - - - Next (Sax Day Videos w Sonny Del-Rio)
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