Friday, November 29, 2013

HAMILTON BLUES LOVERS TURNS 5 YEARS OLD

A few words from Lou, our esteemed Blogger:

On November 29, 2008 I put an ad online to start a new organization called the Hamilton Blues Lovers.  For five years I've been on a wonderful musical journey that has changed my life forever. 

At first, I was just an occasional local music fan venturing out once in a blue moon.  I spent three years dealing with health issues (both my own and my family's).  This wake up call made me realize I should be enjoying every minute of life!

My interest in local music turned into a passion but there was still a stumbling block.  Very few people I knew realized just how much amazing talent was in their own community.  I would end up going to shows alone and being a shy person by nature, I didn't interact much with other fans.

The Hamilton Blues Lovers was created as a way to break me out of my shell and find like-minded music devotees.  I placed the ad online and the HBL was born.

This has been a life-changing personal journey for me.  It is through it that I learned how to enjoy life more.  I was also extremely lucky to meet Linda, the love of my life, as part of the social group.  She makes music that much sweeter!

I'd like to thank all the new friends I've made throughout these past five years.  To all the musicians: keep up all the good work.  I look forward to many more years of supporting the local scene!



To help celebrate five years of incredible local music, I'd like to invite everyone to Rolly Rocket's on 470 King St W, to join in the fun with a musical Open Stage on December 1, 2013 at 7pm. Both musicians and fans are encouraged to pop in and enjoy!



Video courtesy of Neil Cheeseburger

Previous (New Michael Vallely CD) - - - Next (Videos from Locke Street Fest w Uncorked, Mike Vallely, Banned From Heaven, and B.O.B.)

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

New Michael Vallely CD: Circus Songs

https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/circus-songs/id627550296
If you prefer variety in your music, then Circus Songs, the incredible latest disc from local singer/songwriter Michael Vallely is for you.  Recently nominated for a Hamilton Music Award, the album deftly explores a lot of musical territory.


Though always grounded in the folk/roots tradition, the songs range from pop, Celtic, Country, a touch of Reggae and even a little bit of Rap.  Michael handles it all with distinctive vocals, outstanding songwriting and a wonderfully twisted sense of humour.

Joining him on this unique musical venture are a few amazing local talents such as Tomi Swick, Andrea Unger, Randall Hill, Danny Lockwood, Amy King, Bob Doidge, Colin Lapsley, and Sahra Featherstone

You can pick up the CD at any of his live show or download it through iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers.



Links: More Michael Vallely Stories, More CD Releases

Previous (Videos: Jerome Godboo & Gonor Gains@RBG) - - - Next (Hamilton Blues Lovers Turns 5)

Sunday, November 24, 2013

Hell County Debut CD

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/hellcounty
The self titled debut CD from local power trio, Hell County is not for the feint of heart.  This is stunning, raw, super-heavy rock with a blues soul.

The powerful, gritty voice and infectious, loud guitar workouts of Wayne Janus set the stage for the whole disc. Tony "Rush" Wachnuik (bass) and Robin Houston (drums) meet him blow for blow as they create a shack shaking sound guaranteed to wake the neighbours.

This ain't just head bangin' music either.  There's enough boogie infused in here to make you shake your booty as well as your head.

If you think you can handle it, you can pick up a CD at one of the band's (or Wayne's solo) live shows.  It can also be downloaded through cdbaby or iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Hell County's YouTube page.



Blast from the Past: Videos - Hell County and others play the Locke Street Fest

Links: Hell County, More Wayne Janus Stories, More CD Releases

Previous (Videos: Lori Yates@Pine Street Gardens) - - - Next (Videos: Jerome Godboo & Gonor Gains@RBG)

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

New Harrison Kennedy CD: Soulscape

http://www.emusic.com/album/harrison-kennedy/soulscape/14434954/
There's a good reason area Bluesman Harrison Kennedy's latest CD, Soulscape (from Electro-Fi Records) recently helped him win four Hamilton Music Awards: It's just that good!

With this astounding album, Harrison has successfully fused his soulful R&B sound with the country Blues.  This is Mississippi meets Motown!

The legendary musician works hard on this disc.  Not only does his dynamic voice sound as great as ever but he also deftly handles banjo, mandolin, harmonica, spoons, fife, percussion and more.

With Keith 'Happy' Lindsay on keys and Alec Fraser on percussion, the band is up to the task of helping Harrison fulfill this unique sound.  Justin Dunlop ably lends his bass and guitar talents to one track as well.

You can pick up this wonderful CD at his live shows, Picks N Sticks, or though the Electro-Fi website.  It can also be downloaded through eMusic or iTunes.

Video below courtesy of RandallStaffordCook



Blast from the Past: Harrison Kennedy CD-Shame the Devil

Links: Harrison Kennedy, More Harrison Kennedy Stories, More CD Releases

Previous (Videos: Judi Rideout, Cindy Dell and Duane Rutter@Pine Street Gardens) - - - Next (News Roundup w Duane Rutter, Miles Davis Movie, Searchers, Adam Ostrosser)

Monday, November 18, 2013

2013 Hamilton Music Award Winners

The 2013 Hamilton  Music Awards were handed out on Saturday, November 16 (Industry) and Sunday, November 17 (main).  As always, it was an incredible celebration of the best music this city has to offer.  There was amazing music throughout the Hammer!

The big winners were Harrison Kennedy, who took home four trophies as well as a lifetime achievement award and hard rock band Monster Truck, who won seven awards.

Click here for the Spectator story

Here's a sampling of the winners!

Rising Star Winner: Ash to Ember

Industry Awards
  • Artist Website: www.ilovemonstertruck.com
  • Video of the Year: Saint Alvia - Mother’s Day


    Links: Saint Alvia, Video courtesy of Saint Alvia
  • Best Album Artwork: Lee Harvey Osmond (The Folk Sinner)
  • Record Label: Sonic Unyon Recording Company (Terra Lightfoot, Young Rival, Threat Signal)
  • Music Retailer: Dr. Disc
  • Major Concert Venue: Gage Park
  • Live Club of the Year: This Ain’t Hollywood
  • Musical Event (People’s Choice): Supercrawl
  • Theatre: Pearl Company
  • Piano/Keyboard Player of the Year: Jesse O’Brien (Smoke Wagon Blues Band/Andre Bisson)
  • Special Instrumentalist: Yiannis Kapoulas
  • Guitarist: Jeremy Widerman (Monster Truck)
  • Drummer: Steve Kiely (Monster Truck)
  • Bassist: Jon Harvey (Monster Truck)
  • Local Group (People’s Choice): John Mamone
  • Canadian Recording (People’s Choice): Monster Truck 
Blast from the Past: Last Year's Winners

Click here for more about the Hamilton Music Awards 

Previous (New Andre Bisson CD)