24 November 2008

Ottawa Blues This Week - 24 November 2008

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK

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Robert Farrell

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Friday, November 28 @ 9 pm; cover $8 or 2 for $10

Saturday Night Blues (http://www.cbc.ca/snb/) has acquired robert farrell band’s CBC performance last February at the Rainbow. Robert is back to play, so come out and find out what all the fuss is about.

www.robertfarrell.com

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Terry Gillespie

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Saturday, November 29 @ 9:15 pm

Sue Foley says: Terry Gillespie is one of the most sincerely talented musicians in Canada. He’s a bluesman to the core, but not in the traditional sense for he has range and influences that take it to a whole new level. His blues is the truth and it comes through with every word and melody he wraps his soulful voice around. This is real.”

See if you agree … catch Terry at Tucson’s on November 29.

www.terrygillespie.ca

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Capital Vox presents Wintermezzo 2008

NAC 4th Stage, 53 Elgin Street

Saturday, November 29 @ 7:30 pm; tickets $20


Join Capital Vox, Ottawa's Jazz Choir, as they sing original arrangements of songs by Count Basie, Irving Berlin, Hoagy Carmichael, Bill Evans, Thelonious Monk, Oscar Peterson, Paul Simon, and others. Capital Vox will present the world premiere of the original work, Four Poems by Tony Cosier. Mr. Cosier is a poet residing in Ottawa. Also included are works by Ottawa composers Megan Jerome and Elise Letourneau. The dynamic vocalists and gifted jazz ensemble promise a very memorable evening under the direction of Elise Letourneau.

Heralded as Canada's first community jazz choir, the members of Capital Vox are all excellent vocalists in their own right, several of whom perform in the city. Capital Vox is comprised of 24 voices plus the able accompaniment of guitarist Tim Bedner, bassist Mark Alcorn, and drummer Marilee Townsend. Additionally, Capital Vox is excited to welcome special guests pianist Mark Ferguson, violinist Gillian Gresham, and saxophonist Jason Scott.

Capital Vox is enjoying its second season, which to date has included opening this year’s Jazz Vespers series at All Saints’ Anglican/First United Church, and the first of the choir’s Vintage Game Night & 7-Minute Song Series. The choir was formed to explore the works of classic jazz composers, as well as standards old and new, in a large group vocal setting. It also seeks to recast traditional music in a new, jazzy light; as well as present music by Canadian jazz composers. The choir membership seeks continual growth in vocal, improvisational, and musicianship skills; culminating in quality music-making and concert performances
.
www.capitalvox.ca

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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK

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“Inside the Music” lecture/demo/concert

With Ted Warren

Alcorn Music Studios, 903 Carling Avenue, Ottawa ON

Sunday, November 30, 2-4 pm; tickets $25; students $15

Limited seating available; call 613-729-0693 for tickets

Alcorn Music Studios is very excited to have one of Canada's top jazz drummers in for “Inside the Music” lecture/demo/concert! Ted Warren, recently featured on the cover of Drums etc., and recipient of The Jazz Report’s ‘Drummer of the Year’ award, will give insight to his playing style, discuss the drummer’s creative role within a group, give advice on how to play with a drummer and how a drummer works to create a cohesive rhythm section. There will be a Q&A session at the end. Ted will be joined by Peter Hum (piano) and Mark Alcorn (bass), hosted by Marilee Townsend.

This session will be of interest not only to drummers, but to all instrumentalists (including vocalists) and music fans. An excellent opportunity to understand and learn from the drummer’s perspective!

Check out Ted Warren’s group ‘Commission’ at MySpace http://www.myspace.com/tedswarrencommission

email info@alcornmusicstudios.com

www.alcornmusicstudios.com

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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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Virée Blues Boréale presents

Carlos Veiga & the Roots 66

Cafe Le Troquet, 41 Laval Stree, in the Old Hull sector, Gatineau

Wednesday, November 26 @ 8 pm

Carlos Veiga likes every genre; he broadens his musical scope through contacts with everything from classical to Quebec as well as anglophone rock, to country, to blues, to jazz and folk; that’s what he built his musical identity from. His perseverance, his professionalism, his guitar playing ability and his powerful voice make him an outstanding and highly experienced artist, which earned him for a second year in a row, a nomination for Best Cabaret Artist at the prestigious Lys Blues Award gala in 2006. He is now preparing an album with a compilation of his best successes.

Carlos Veiga & the Roots 66 is some of the best Montreal musicians: bassist Marc Deschêsnes who also acts as music director, Mathieu Toupin on drums and Michel Chasles on the Hammond B-3.


www.myspace.com/carlosveiga

www.myspace.com/vireeblues

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David Rotundo Band

Draft Horse Microbrewery, O’Meara’s Pub, 3495 Trim Road, Navan ON

Saturday, November 29

David Rotundo is a superb blues harmonica player and singer. He won the 2007 Maple Blues Award for Harmonica Player of the Year and is described as “one of the top 10 blues performers in Canada” by Real Blues Magazine. He and his great band already have a strong following in this part of the world – last February they sold out two Shows at Blues On The Rideau at The Cove with performances that literally blew people away. It promises to be the same kind of night at The Draft Horse.

Proceeds will go to support CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) – a world-class children’s hospital (affiliated with the University of Ottawa) with a 30-year history of quality care, research and teaching.

The Draft Horse Microbrewery www.drafthorsebrewery.com is adjacent to O'Meara's Pub in a converted 120 year old Grist Mill in the village of Navan – less than a 20 minute drive east of Ottawa, 10 minutes south of Orleans. The Draft Horse is one of only a few microbreweries in eastern Ontario and boasts 5 naturally brewed house beers. The room holds 150 people with good acoustics and a nice sized dance floor.

Tickets for the Dinner & Show are only $49 per person (tax and donation to CHEO included). A full buffet including dessert and coffee will be served. Buffet starts at 7 pm, Show at 9 pm. Advance reservations are required. Call or visit O’Meara’s Pub (613) 835-9883 and book now

Blues At The Brewpub is brought to you by Choose The Blues Productions www.choosetheblues.ca Producer of the successful Blues On The Rideau Dinner & Show Series at The Cove Inn, Westport for the past 3 years. The same formula – Dinner & Show in an intimate setting featuring some of Canada’s best blues artists in support of local charities is being tried at The Draft Horse to give Ottawa/Gatineau & east residents a closer venue. If the November 29th Show is well supported, more Blues At The Brewpub Dinner & Show nights will take place starting in January – so if you want that, come out and support the November 29 Show!

www.choosetheblues.ca

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS EVERY WEEK

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Blues Jam – live with Barry Buse

and the Mississippi Blues Society

Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street

Every Tuesday, 8:30 pm – 12:30 am; no cover

www.elmdaletavern.com

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Irene’s Blues Jam

Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street

Thursdays, 9 pm – 1 am

The Stellar Cast Blues Jam is a bonafide grass roots event that has grown out of the very floorboards of Irene’s Pub and has become a real crowd pleaser for musicians and music lovers alike. The Stellar Cast features Mike Ktenas (bass) and Corky Kealey (drums) as the foundation, and is filled out by a host of great local players who rotate according to availability. Each week the cast is topped up with a guest host who steers the song selections in whatever way they're inspired and the jamming begins. It's a great concept and the proof is in the popularity the night has garnered over the years.

Guest hosts coming up:

Nov 27 – Elyssa Mahoney with Lucas Haneman

http://bacton.smugmug.com/share/cFoCZfrollzaE

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Sunday Blues, 5-8 pm

Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)

November 9 & December 21, 2008; February 1, 2009

Zydeco Loco www.zydecoloco.ca

December 7, 2008; January 18th & March 1, 2009

Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo www.mumbojumbo.ca

Other bands & dates to be confirmed; check out their new website

www.atomicrooster.ca

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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH

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Ball and Chain and the Wreckers

Honky Tonk Saturday Night

Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street

Saturday, December 6 @ 9 pm; $5 at the door

This month's featured guest will be: Pat McLaughlin (Pat Moore, the Vinyl Fronteer) on guitar
Bring your friends along for some top quality Hillbilly Honky Tonk! Arrive thirsty!

Honky Tonk Saturday Night is a monthly event happening the first Saturday of every month.

www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin

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BLUES IN KINGSTON

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Kingston Blues Society Monthly Jam

With host band Mojo Shooter

RCHA Club, 193 Ontario St. (big blue door), Kingston ON

From 3rd Saturday of month

Come out and see Mojo Shooter (one of Kingston’s best bands) rev it up. Then watch and dance as Mojo Shooter and some of Kingston’s best musicians get together and jam the night away.

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Weekly events

Georgette Fry

Brandees, 178A Ontario Street, Kingston

Every Thursday night at 8:30 pm (new start time)

The Ones

Monte’s in the Prince George Hotel, 200 Ontario Street, Kingston

Every Thursday night at 9 pm

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For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society

www.kingstonbluessociety.ca

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SPECIAL EVENTS IN DECEMBER

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Jimmy Bowskill

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Tuesday, December 2 @ 9:30 pm

Jimmy was discovered playing guitar in front of Jeff Healey’s Club in Toronto at age 11 and was invited to the stage that night for the first time by Healey. He went on to record his 1st CD shortly after, strongly supported by the Toronto Blues community. His second release a year later got the nod for a Juno nomination.

www.jimmybowskill.com

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Jump, Jive and Swing Dance Party

With The Big Easy 7 Swing Band

Park Ballroom Ramada Inn, Belleville ON

Friday, December 5, 7:30-11:30 pm; $30 single, $50 couple

Includes Late night buffet.

Tickets on-line at www.loyalblues.ca

Proceed go to support interactive-live music programming in the Quinte regions public and separate school boards. Presented by Hospitality Management Class of 2009, Loyalist College, Loyal Blues Fellowship Inc. Swing dance instruction and demonstrations provided by Queen’s Swing Club.

www.loyalblues.ca

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Downchild Blues Band

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Friday & Saturday, December 12-13, 9:15 pm;

Canada's premier and most durable Blues band, Downchild is one of those musical rarities for which there's virtually no difference between the studio recording experience and the live event. The Toronto blues band, now in its fourth decade, has always been a no-tricks outfit.

After 38 years on the Canadian blues scene, a constant in Canadian music, numerous music awards and nominations, Downchild remains one of the best roadhouse bands around and Walsh is one of the genre's best writers. Walsh, singer Chuck Jackson, pianist Michael Fonfara, Pat Carey, Gary Kendall, Mike Fitzpatrick and their tight rhythm and horn sections tear up the joint with an energy level that never lets go.

www.downchild.com

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“She's Right”

Tell Mama CD Release Party
O'Reilly's Pub, 43 Gore Street, Perth ON

Saturday, December 13, 8:30 pm; tickets $10

It's been a long time coming but it's finally here – we have the tracks in hand and the mastering and duplication is underway. So come and help us to celebrate the arrival of our new baby, ``She's Right`` – Tell Mama's first CD!

Festivities will begin at O'Reilly's Pub in Perth on December 13th at 8:30pm with Alana Kurtis opening for us. Tell Mama Family Members receive complimentary access to the event and preferred seating at the head table.

Hope to see you there!

www.tellmama.net

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The Night Before The Night Before Christmas
Food Bank Fundraiser
with Tell Mama

Royal Canadian Legion, 26 Beckwith St. E, Perth ON

Saturday, December 20, 7:30 pm; tickets $20 plus a donation of food


This is our third year hosting this event and it just keeps on getting better and better! Last year Sue Foley, Christine Graves, Pat Moore and Freshly Squeezed all shared the stage with us. This year, Keith Glass is back in for the ride, Eddie Ashton's blues/rock band Push and Dave Balfour, Guthrie House, are all planning to attend. Second City alumnus, Deborah Kimmett, will be MC'ing the evening.

Last year we raised $3,250 for the Perth and District Food Bank - this year we hope to do even better.

www.tellmama.net

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The Annual Trevor Finlay Acoustic Christmas Eve

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Wednesday, December 24, 1-5 pm


Trevor Finlay's Annual Acoustic Christmas Eve with a relaxing candle light atmosphere and good food & friends makes for an enjoyable afternoon as part of the holiday season.

www.trevorfinlay.com

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Raoul & the Big Time

Annual Christmas Show/Homecoming

Rainbow, 76 Murray Street

Saturday, December 27 @ 9:30 pm

Raoul hails from Ottawa where he attended Canterbury High School. He’ll be making his Christmas pilgrimage back home and, with the band, playing their regular holiday season gig at the Rainbow. We don’t get to see this band often, so don’t miss them!

www.raoulandthebigtime.com

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New Year’s Eve with Trevor Finlay

Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street

Wednesday, December 31 @ 9:15 pm

Recently relocated to Nashville, Trevor returns to bring in the New Year! His demand as a performer and songwriter has enabled him to work with some of the top recording artists and songwriters in North America. Come send Trevor off in style and celebrate this achievement for this great Canadian Artist.
www.trevorfinlay.com
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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU – 2008/2009

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Choose The Blues Productions and The Cove Inn, Westport have decided to revert to Friday Night Only Shows for the remainder of the 2008/09 Season of Blues on the Rideau @ the Cove, instead of the double Friday & Saturday Shows as originally planned. A second Show on Saturday will only be added if advance demand warrants it and will be subject to the artists’ availability. Please check www.bluesontherideau.ca and watch for Email Blasts as we get closer to each Show for updates.

Reason for the change? Advance ticket sales this year, although good, are not as much as we had hoped for. The current economic climate – far different from what it was when we planned the Series last spring – is no doubt a factor and, with hindsight, we were probably overly ambitious in moving from single to double Shows for every weekend all in one year. In addition ticket purchases to date are more or less evenly split between the two nights which means – with double the expenses – that we are at risk of having two half-full Shows instead of one full one. If that were to happen over time the losses would be substantial and the Series would be at risk of not continuing. Nobody wants that!

We ask that if you have booked for a Saturday Show this season please contact The Cove at (613) 273-3636 or 1-888-COVE-INN and let them know whether you want to move to the Friday or cancel. When you book would you also please tell us if you would prefer the Saturday night *if it is added* and we will contact you to offer first choice of seats if that occurs.

Our sincere apologies to those who have booked for the Saturday nights – and to the artists – for the inconvenience this change may have caused.

The revised 2008/09 Schedule for Blues on the Rideau @ The Cove:

January 16 – ROXANNE POTVIN BLUES BAND

Proceeds to Westport Area Food Bank & Lions Club Mobility Van

February 20 – FATHEAD

Proceeds to Friends of Foley Mountain & Rideau District Museum

March 20 – RICK FINES & SUZIE VINNICK w. BAND

Proceeds to Juvenile Diabetes Association of Ontario & Gilda’s Club for Cancer Families

April 17 – PAUL REDDICK & THE SIDEMEN

Proceeds to Rideau Waterway Land Trust & Westport in Bloom

May 15 – DANNY BROOKS & THE MEMPHIS BROTHERS

Proceeds to Compassion Canada Sponsor a Child & Habitat for Humanity

June 19 – STEPHEN BARRY BAND with

Special Guest MICHAEL JEROME BROWNE

Proceeds to Lucy Drysdale Memorial Scholarship & Westport Library

Accommodation at The Cove and nearby B&Bs is available at very reasonable rates. If you live out of town this is a great way to enjoy BOTR – no driving home after a few drinks, you can relax and enjoy and as an added bonus – you get to meet and talk with the artists the next day at breakfast! It’s a perfect mini-getaway. Book well in advance though – rooms fill up fast. Call The Cove and they will make the arrangements for you.

Artists may change - check the web site or call The Cove for updates.

Visit www.bluesontherideau.ca for more information

See you at The Cove!

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BLUES ON THE RADIO

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On CKCU-FM 93.1

The Mighty 93.1

www.ckcufm.com

Community Radio serving the Ottawa Carleton Region

Sundays: 9-11 pm

Black and Blues

with John Tackaberry

The show features a heavy dose of electric blues and rhythm and blues, with the occasional selection of sixties soul. The first hour is dedicated to artist profiles and reviews of recordings on particular labels. In the second hour there is a blues calendar, a rundown of events in Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, and interviews with “new and reissued blues and rhythm and blues tracks on wax” alternating with “live blues and R&B for a Sunday night” in the last half hour of the show. On the last Sunday of every month, the show goes “down in the delta” for a selection of acoustic blues tracks in the final half hour of the program.

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Wednesdays: 3:30-4:30 pm

Iron Maidens

with Diane Wells (D.D. Rocker)

Where female musicians of steely determination dare to challenge their male peers in the wide, wonderful world of music. From roots to heavy metal, she’ll cover it all. To the women of the world, let your voices and instruments be heard!

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On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM

Saturdays: 10 pm – midnight

Saturday Night Blues

www.cbc.ca/snb

Host Holger Petersen has been a broadcaster, record producer, album collector, and serious blues fan for over 30 years. His collection of blues records numbers in the thousands. On Saturday Night Blues each week you’ll hear a mix of classic blues from the ‘Petersen Vaults’, concerts, interviews, artist features, new releases, plus anything that boogies, jumps, or swings, plus your requests from the Bluesline.

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On CHEZ106 FM

Sundays: 6-7 pm

House of Blues Hour

The House of Blues Radio hour, hosted by Dan Aykroyd aka Elwood Blues, features an hour of rockin’ blues from a wide variety of performers ranging from traditional to contemporary. The show is the most widely syndicated radio program dedicated to the blues in North America, and has been running on stations across the continent for over ten years.

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WEEKLY EVENTS ON THE SMALL SCREEN

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ALWAYS check local listings to confirm.

On BRAVO – www.bravo.ca

Tuesday, November 25 @ 7 am – Talkin’ Blues

Tribute (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features Chicago-based singer/guitarist Nick Moss, a conversation with Mel Brown about his health, a video from Morgan Davis and a salute to late Canadian musician Domenic Troiano.

Tuesday, November 25 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster (2007): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features performer Ruthie Foster.

Monday, December 1 @ 11 am – The Jackie Washington Story (2005)
Documentary examining the fascinating life, rich musical history and passionate spirit of the Canadian jazz/swing/blues/folk singer, guitarist and storyteller. This grandson of slaves has an impressive repertoire of 1300 songs.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 7 am – Talkin’ Blues

Little Charlie & the Night Cats (E) 2005
Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features a performance and interview from the California-based band lead by Rick Estrin and Charlie Baty, who have worked together for over 30 years.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 10:30 am – Garrett Mason, Born to the Blues (2008)
Documentary featuring the JUNO award-winning son of Dutchy Mason, the Prime Minister of the Blues, as he forges his own style of music and develops a dedicated fan base throughout Canada.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul

Salty Sessions/Hot Toddy (2008): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features the band Hot Toddy.

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WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONTH

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Tuesdays: Jam hosted by Barry Buse (1st Tuesday with special guest host)

@ Elmdale House, 8:30-11:30 pm

Wednesdays: Dr Dave Revue @ the Rainbow, 5-8 pm

Wednesdays: Brian Downey @ The Avant-Garde Bar, 8:30 pm

Wednesdays: Acoustic music with Jeff Rogers @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm

Wednesdays: Open Jam @ the New Bayou, 9 pm

Thursdays: Acoustic blues with Al Tambay & friends @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm

Thursdays: Mike Ktenas hosts the Blues Jam @ Irene’s, 9 pm to closing

Saturday afternoons: Guy del Villano @ Royal Oak, 318 Bank Street, 2-6 pm

Sunday afternoons: Blues jam @ the Rainbow, 3-7 pm

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LOCALS LOOK AHEAD

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Thursday, December 4

Robert Farrell @ the Elmdale House Tavern, 9 pm

Mixed Nuts @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

Friday, December 5

Wicked Grin @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Elyssa Mahoney & Lucas Haneman @ D’Arcy McGee’s (Bells Corners), 8 pm

Saturday, December 6

Ottawa Blues Society Christmas Party & AGM with

MonkeyJunk @ Tucson’s

Saturday, December 20

Bluestone @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Saturday, December 26

Quicksand @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm

Tuesday, December 30

Annual Pre-New Year Show with Maria Hawkins @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm

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17 November 2008

Ottawa Blues This Week - 17 November 2008

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MAPLE BLUES AWARDS WEBSITE NOW AVAILABLE
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The Maple Blues Awards is Canada’s national blues awards program. Its goal is to promote blues music across Canada, and to recognize outstanding achievement in the field. The winners of the Twelfth Annual Maple Blues Awards will be announced at the Annual Maple Blues Awards Gala in Toronto, on January 19, 2009. This very special evening is Canada's national annual celebration of homegrown blues talent. It's also a night of great music by the Maple Blues Band, comprised entirely of Maple Blues Awards winners and nominees.

The Maple Blues voting website is now available at www.mapleblues.ca Follow the instructions on the website to register (you must have a valid email address) and you will receive your password and a link to the voting website. Voting ends at 11:59 pm (Pacific time) on Saturday, December 6, 2008.

Ottawa nominees include:
MonkeyJunk – for New Artist/Group of the Year
JW-Jones – for Electric Act of the Year & Guitarist of the Year
Steve Marriner – for Harmonica Player of the Year

A full list of nominees appears on the Maple Blues website at http://www.mapleblues.ca/nominees.aspx
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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JW-Jones
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Friday, November 21 @ 9:30 pm

Double 2009 Maple Blues Award-nominee (Electric Act of the Year & Guitarist of the Year), JW-Jones released his 5th CD, “Bluelisted”, earlier this year. It showcases some high-profile (and high-powered!) guests, but they’re just the icing on the cake … JW can hold his own with anyone on the contemporary blues scene. He’s got the skills, the talent *and* the smarts that together have made him a ‘household name’ in Canadian blues … and his reputation is growing in the US, Australia and Europe. Come out on Friday and support this world-class Ottawa blues star!
www.jw-jones.com
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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK
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Roxanne Potvin
National Arts Centre Studio, 53 Elgin Street
Tuesday, November 18 @ 8 pm; tickets $39.50

Raised in Quebec, resident in Ontario, and now a performer with an international reputation, Roxanne Potvin will release her third CD next week. Intriguingly named “No Love for the Poisonous”, the collection of original new songs on the Alert Music label resonates deeply with the experiences of the 26-year-old artist’s generation.

Produced by Fembots leader Dave MacKinnon, “No Love for the Poisonous” outlines a new musical vision for the artist. While the passion and heart of the blues remain an integral part of her music, there’s a wider musical vocabulary at work. Funky New Orleans grooves fit perfectly with soul swagger, happy old-school pop, and introspective moments. Her earliest musical influences (and her family background) still resonate, and the CD contains a song in French, and another – like the singer herself – which is perfectly bilingual.

Roxanne comes ‘home’ for a CD release event at the NAC Studio on Tuesday, November 18.
www.roxannepotvin.com
(Info from Richard Flohil)
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Ricky Paquette
Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street
Friday & Saturday, November 21-22 @ 9:15 pm

This young prodigy is now taking on the Blues/Rock music scene with reckless abandon. Winner of the ‘Upcoming artist’ title at the Lys Blues award in 2006, nominated at the Maple Blues Awards in 2006, and winner of 2 Lys Blues awards in 2007, nominated in three different categories at the Quebec Lys Blues Awards for 2008. Come see why this excellent young player continues to impress!
www.rickypaquette.com
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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Blues on the Rideau
Presents
Steve Strongman Band
The Cove, Westport ON
Friday, November 21

Steve Strongman was nominated for the 2007 Maple Blues Award for Best New Artist of the Year although at age 37 with a long career playing blues, rock & country he is no newbie. Born in Hamilton – the home of many great Canadian blues artists including Richard Newell ‘King Biscuit Boy’, Daniel Lanois, Rita Chiarelli, Harrison Kennedy and many more – Steve started his career at age 16 playing around southern Ontario where he caught the eye of legendary Mississippi blues guitarist Mel Brown (Mel has played BOTR twice delivering dynamite shows as many will remember).

Mel tutored and encouraged Steve, introducing him to many of the blues greats. In 2007 Steve recorded his CD “Honey” which immediately got everyone’s attention, including mine! His LIVE shows are known for their high energy, great guitar and vocals. His band includes one of Canada’s best bass players Alec Fraser and Dave King (King Biscuit Boy, T-Bone Burnett) on drums. Mark ‘Bird’ Stafford who is in town doing his Harmonica Blues in the Schools presentation for the kids at Rideau Vista and St. Edward’s will get up on stage for a few songs with the band as well – an added bonus.

$55 per person includes dinner, show & dancing (taxes and donation to charity included). Call The Cove for tickets (613) 273-3636 or 1-888-268-3466.

Accommodation at The Cove and nearby B&Bs is available at very reasonable rates. If you live out of town this is a great way to enjoy BOTR – no driving home after a few drinks, you can relax and enjoy and as an added bonus – you get to meet and talk with the artists the next day at breakfast! It’s a perfect mini-getaway. Book well in advance though – rooms fill up fast. Call The Cove and they will make the arrangements for you.

Visit www.bluesontherideau.ca for more information
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS EVERY WEEK
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Blues Jam – live with Barry Buse
and the Mississippi Blues Society
Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street
Every Tuesday, 8:30 pm – 12:30 am; no cover
www.elmdaletavern.com
********************************************************
Irene’s Blues Jam
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Thursdays, 9 pm – 1 am

The Stellar Cast Blues Jam is a bonafide grass roots event that has grown out of the very floorboards of Irene’s Pub and has become a real crowd pleaser for musicians and music lovers alike. The Stellar Cast features Mike Ktenas (bass) and Corky Kealey (drums) as the foundation, and is filled out by a host of great local players who rotate according to availability. Each week the cast is topped up with a guest host who steers the song selections in whatever way they're inspired and the jamming begins. It's a great concept and the proof is in the popularity the night has garnered over the years.

Guest hosts coming up:
Nov 13 – Ball & Chain
Nov 20 – Chris McCann
Nov 27 – Elyssa Mahoney with Lucas Haneman
http://bacton.smugmug.com/share/cFoCZfrollzaE
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Sunday Blues, 5-8 pm
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)

November 9 & December 21, 2008; February 1, 2009
Zydeco Loco www.zydecoloco.ca
December 7, 2008; January 18th & March 1, 2009
Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo www.mumbojumbo.ca

Other bands & dates to be confirmed; check out their new website
www.atomicrooster.ca
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
********************************************************
Ball and Chain and the Wreckers
Honky Tonk Saturday Night
Elmdale House Tavern, 1084 Wellington Street
First Saturday each month; $5 at the door

Featured guest each month.
www.myspace.com/jodybenjamin
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BLUES IN KINGSTON
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Kingston Blues Society Monthly Jam 2nd Anniversary Show
With host band Mojo Shooter
RCHA Club, 193 Ontario St. (big blue door), Kingston ON
Saturday, November 22, 9 ‘til midnight; $3 at the door
PLEASE NOTE THE DATE CHANGE –
From 3rd Saturday of month to 4th Saturday – due to Bob Dylan show

Come out and see Mojo Shooter (one of Kingston’s best bands) rev it up. Then watch and dance as Mojo Shooter and some of Kingston’s best musicians get together and jam the night away.
Watch for our 2nd anniversary special guest announcement.
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Weekly events
Georgette Fry
Brandees, 178A Ontario Street, Kingston
Every Thursday night at 8:30 pm (new start time)

The Ones
Monte’s in the Prince George Hotel, 200 Ontario Street, Kingston
Every Thursday night at 9 pm
**********
For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society
www.kingstonbluessociety.ca
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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS MONTH
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Robert Farrell
Rainbow, 76 Murray Street
Friday, November 28 @ 9 pm; cover $8 or 2 for $10

Saturday Night Blues (http://www.cbc.ca/snb/) has acquired robert farrell band’s CBC performance last February at the Rainbow. Robert is back to play, so come out and find out what all the fuss is about.
www.robertfarrell.com
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Terry Gillespie
Tucson’s, 2440 Bank Street
Saturday, November 29 @ 9:15 pm

Sue Foley says: “Terry Gillespie is one of the most sincerely talented musicians in Canada. He’s a bluesman to the core, but not in the traditional sense for he has range and influences that take it to a whole new level. His blues is the truth and it comes through with every word and melody he wraps his soulful voice around. This is real.”
See if you agree … catch Terry at Tucson’s on November 29.
www.terrygillespie.ca
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David Rotundo Band
Draft Horse Microbrewery, O’Meara’s Pub, 3495 Trim Road, Navan ON
Saturday, November 29

David Rotundo is a superb blues harmonica player and singer. He won the 2007 Maple Blues Award for Harmonica Player of the Year and is described as “one of the top 10 blues performers in Canada” by Real Blues Magazine. He and his great band already have a strong following in this part of the world – last February they sold out two Shows at Blues On The Rideau at The Cove with performances that literally blew people away. It promises to be the same kind of night at The Draft Horse.

Proceeds will go to support CHEO (Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario) – a world-class children’s hospital (affiliated with the University of Ottawa) with a 30-year history of quality care, research and teaching.

The Draft Horse Microbrewery www.drafthorsebrewery.com is adjacent to O'Meara's Pub in a converted 120 year old Grist Mill in the village of Navan – less than a 20 minute drive east of Ottawa, 10 minutes south of Orleans. The Draft Horse is one of only a few microbreweries in eastern Ontario and boasts 5 naturally brewed house beers. The room holds 150 people with good acoustics and a nice sized dance floor.

Tickets for the Dinner & Show are only $49 per person (tax and donation to CHEO included). A full buffet including dessert and coffee will be served. Buffet starts at 7 pm, Show at 9 pm. Advance reservations are required. Call or visit O’Meara’s Pub (613) 835-9883 and book now

Blues At The Brewpub is brought to you by Choose The Blues Productions www.choosetheblues.ca Producer of the successful Blues On The Rideau Dinner & Show Series at The Cove Inn, Westport for the past 3 years. The same formula – Dinner & Show in an intimate setting featuring some of Canada’s best blues artists in support of local charities is being tried at The Draft Horse to give Ottawa/Gatineau & east residents a closer venue. If the November 29th Show is well supported, more Blues At The Brewpub Dinner & Show nights will take place starting in January – so if you want that, come out and support the November 29 Show!
www.omearasinnavan.ca
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“Inside the Music” lecture/demo/concert
With Ted Warren
Alcorn Music Studios, 903 Carling Avenue, Ottawa ON
Sunday, November 30, 2-4 pm; tickets $25; students $15
Limited seating available; call 613-729-0693 for tickets

Alcorn Music Studios is very excited to have one of Canada's top jazz drummers in for “Inside the Music” lecture/demo/concert! Ted Warren, recently featured on the cover of Drums etc., and recipient of The Jazz Report’s ‘Drummer of the Year’ award, will give insight to his playing style, discuss the drummer’s creative role within a group, give advice on how to play with a drummer and how a drummer works to create a cohesive rhythm section. There will be a Q&A session at the end. Ted will be joined by Peter Hum (piano) and Mark Alcorn (bass), hosted by Marilee Townsend.

This session will be of interest not only to drummers, but to all instrumentalists (including vocalists) and music fans. An excellent opportunity to understand and learn from the drummer’s perspective!
Check out Ted Warren’s group ‘Commission’ at MySpace http://www.myspace.com/tedswarrencommission
email info@alcornmusicstudios.com
www.alcornmusicstudios.com
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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU – 2008/2009
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Choose The Blues Productions and The Cove Inn, Westport have decided to revert to Friday Night Only Shows for the remainder of the 2008/09 Season of Blues on the Rideau @ the Cove, instead of the double Friday & Saturday Shows as originally planned. A second Show on Saturday will only be added if advance demand warrants it and will be subject to the artists’ availability. Please check www.bluesontherideau.ca and watch for Email Blasts as we get closer to each Show for updates.

Reason for the change? Advance ticket sales this year, although good, are not as much as we had hoped for. The current economic climate – far different from what it was when we planned the Series last spring – is no doubt a factor and, with hindsight, we were probably overly ambitious in moving from single to double Shows for every weekend all in one year. In addition ticket purchases to date are more or less evenly split between the two nights which means – with double the expenses – that we are at risk of having two half-full Shows instead of one full one. If that were to happen over time the losses would be substantial and the Series would be at risk of not continuing. Nobody wants that!

We ask that if you have booked for a Saturday Show this season please contact The Cove at (613) 273-3636 or 1-888-COVE-INN and let them know whether you want to move to the Friday or cancel. When you book would you also please tell us if you would prefer the Saturday night *if it is added* and we will contact you to offer first choice of seats if that occurs.

Our sincere apologies to those who have booked for the Saturday nights – and to the artists – for the inconvenience this change may have caused.

The revised 2008/09 Schedule for Blues on the Rideau @ The Cove:

November 21 – STEVE STRONGMAN BAND
Proceeds to Blues in the Schools with Mark ‘Bird’ Stafford & David McCarthy Scholarship

January 16 – ROXANNE POTVIN BLUES BAND
Proceeds to Westport Area Food Bank & Lions Club Mobility Van

February 20 – FATHEAD
Proceeds to Friends of Foley Mountain & Rideau District Museum

March 20 – RICK FINES & SUZIE VINNICK w. BAND
Proceeds to Juvenile Diabetes Association of Ontario & Gilda’s Club for Cancer Families

April 17 – PAUL REDDICK & THE SIDEMEN
Proceeds to Rideau Waterway Land Trust & Westport in Bloom

May 15 – DANNY BROOKS & THE MEMPHIS BROTHERS
Proceeds to Compassion Canada Sponsor a Child & Habitat for Humanity

June 19 – STEPHEN BARRY BAND with
Special Guest MICHAEL JEROME BROWNE
Proceeds to Lucy Drysdale Memorial Scholarship & Westport Library

Accommodation at The Cove and nearby B&Bs is available at very reasonable rates. If you live out of town this is a great way to enjoy BOTR – no driving home after a few drinks, you can relax and enjoy and as an added bonus – you get to meet and talk with the artists the next day at breakfast! It’s a perfect mini-getaway. Book well in advance though – rooms fill up fast. Call The Cove and they will make the arrangements for you.

Artists may change - check the web site or call The Cove for updates.
Visit www.bluesontherideau.ca for more information
See you at The Cove!
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BLUES ON THE RADIO
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On CKCU-FM 93.1
The Mighty 93.1
www.ckcufm.com
Community Radio serving the Ottawa Carleton Region

Sundays: 9-11 pm
Black and Blues
with John Tackaberry
The show features a heavy dose of electric blues and rhythm and blues, with the occasional selection of sixties soul. The first hour is dedicated to artist profiles and reviews of recordings on particular labels. In the second hour there is a blues calendar, a rundown of events in Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa, and interviews with “new and reissued blues and rhythm and blues tracks on wax” alternating with “live blues and R&B for a Sunday night” in the last half hour of the show. On the last Sunday of every month, the show goes “down in the delta” for a selection of acoustic blues tracks in the final half hour of the program.
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Wednesdays: 3:30-4:30 pm
Iron Maidens
with Diane Wells (D.D. Rocker)
Where female musicians of steely determination dare to challenge their male peers in the wide, wonderful world of music. From roots to heavy metal, she’ll cover it all. To the women of the world, let your voices and instruments be heard!
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Wednesdays: 9-11 pm
In A Mellow Tone
with Ron Sweetman
Jazz from every era & every style – from 1917 to 2008. Each program features an artist, group, instrument, event, city or record label. Check out Ron’s website www.inamellowtone.com for info on upcoming shows and playlists (current show is posted several days in advance and past shows are archived). Ron is always happy to hear from listeners at ronsweetman@kalixo.com

This week, November 19 – Sheila Jordan: The great lady of jazz singing will celebrate her 80th birthday on October 18. We’ll celebrate her long and distinguished recording career with her recordings from 1962 to 2004 with George Russell, Roswell Rudd, Aki Takase, Jane Bunnett, the Vienna Art Orchestra and many fine accompanists.

Next week November 26 – Reel Recordings: Let’s welcome a new Canadian label with high production and musical standards, whose catalogue includes Kevin Ayers, Lol Coxhill, Elton Dean, Ken Hyder, Steve Miller, Mike Osborne, Ray Russell, Soft Heap and Gary Windo.
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Monthly, every 4th Saturday, 9-9:30 am:
Honky Tonk Saturday Morning
with Ball and Chain
This 12-part series features Michael Ball and Jody Benjamin performing live on radio. Each month will have a different theme like classic country, bluegrass, old time, drinking, cheating and yodelling.
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On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM
Saturdays: 10 pm – midnight
Saturday Night Blues
www.cbc.ca/snb
Host Holger Petersen has been a broadcaster, record producer, album collector, and serious blues fan for over 30 years. His collection of blues records numbers in the thousands. On Saturday Night Blues each week you’ll hear a mix of classic blues from the ‘Petersen Vaults’, concerts, interviews, artist features, new releases, plus anything that boogies, jumps, or swings, plus your requests from the Bluesline.
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On CHEZ106 FM
Sundays: 6-7 pm
House of Blues Hour
The House of Blues Radio hour, hosted by Dan Aykroyd aka Elwood Blues, features an hour of rockin’ blues from a wide variety of performers ranging from traditional to contemporary. The show is the most widely syndicated radio program dedicated to the blues in North America, and has been running on stations across the continent for over ten years.
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WEEKLY EVENTS ON THE SMALL SCREEN
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ALWAYS check local listings to confirm.

On BRAVO – www.bravo.ca
Tuesday, November 18 @ 7 am & 5:30 pm – Talkin’ Blues
Dis, Dat or D’Udda (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features the legendary Dr. John, the singer/songwriter whose blend of African, American-Indian and Creole influences has made him one of New Orleans's most distinctive voices.

Tuesday, November 18 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul
Diamond Days/Eric Bibb (2008): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features musician Eric Bibb.

Monday, November 24 @ 11 am – Mae Moore and Lester Quitzau: In Their Own (2005)
Documentary examining the lives of the acclaimed folk singer and her blues-guitarist husband on British Columbia's scenic and tranquil Pender Island, through engaging interviews and performances.

Tuesday, November 25 @ 7 am – Talkin’ Blues
Tribute (2005): Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features Chicago-based singer/guitarist Nick Moss, a conversation with Mel Brown about his health, a video from Morgan Davis and a salute to late Canadian musician Domenic Troiano.

Tuesday, November 25 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul
The Phenomenal Ruthie Foster (2007): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features performer Ruthie Foster.

Monday, December 1 @ 11 am – The Jackie Washington Story (2005)
Documentary examining the fascinating life, rich musical history and passionate spirit of the Canadian jazz/swing/blues/folk singer, guitarist and storyteller. This grandson of slaves has an impressive repertoire of 1300 songs.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 7 am – Talkin’ Blues
Little Charlie & the Night Cats (E) 2005
Series exploring the world of contemporary blues music. This episode features a performance and interview from the California-based band lead by Rick Estrin and Charlie Baty, who have worked together for over 30 years.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 10:30 am – Garrett Mason, Born to the Blues (2008)
Documentary featuring the JUNO award-winning son of Dutchy Mason, the Prime Minister of the Blues, as he forges his own style of music and develops a dedicated fan base throughout Canada.

Tuesday, December 2 @ 7:30 am – Rhythm, Roots & Soul
Salty Sessions/Hot Toddy (2008): This series profiles R&B, soul, gospel and roots musicians through their words and music. Mako Funasaka documents a moment in time of these wonderful musicians from many different musical genres. This episode features the band Hot Toddy.
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WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY MONTH
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Tuesdays: Jam hosted by Barry Buse (1st Tuesday with special guest host)
@ Elmdale House, 8:30-11:30 pm
Wednesdays: Dr Dave Revue @ the Rainbow, 5-8 pm
Wednesdays: Brian Downey @ The Avant-Garde Bar, 8:30 pm
Wednesdays: Acoustic music with Jeff Rogers @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm
Wednesdays: Open Jam @ the New Bayou, 9 pm
Thursdays: Acoustic blues with Al Tambay & friends @ Tucson’s, 7:30-11 pm
Thursdays: Mike Ktenas hosts the Blues Jam @ Irene’s, 9 pm to closing
Saturday afternoons: Guy del Villano @ Royal Oak, 318 Bank Street, 2-6 pm
Sunday afternoons: Blues jam @ the Rainbow, 3-7 pm
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LOCALS LOOK AHEAD
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Friday, November 28
The FunKtion @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm
Robert Farrell @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm
Saturday, November 29
Terry Gillespie @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm
Thursday, December 4
Robert Farrell @ the Elmdale House Tavern, 9 pm
Friday, December 5
Wicked Grin @ Tucson’s, 9:15 pm
Saturday, December 6
Ottawa Blues Society Christmas Party & AGM with
MonkeyJunk @ Tucson’s
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