31 December 2013

Ottawa Blues This Week - 31 December 2013



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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK
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NEW YEAR’S EVE
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Wicked Grin
Black Donald’s Pub, Calabogie Peaks Resort, Calabogie ON
Tuesday, December 31, 9 pm – 1 am; no cover
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The Hornettes NYE 2013               ***SOLD OUT***
Blacksheep Inn, Wakefield, QC
Tuesday, December 31 @ 8:30 pm          
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New Year’s Eve Gala
                    With the Indelible Shameless Blues
Orchard View Wedding & Conference Centre, 6346 Deermeadow Drive
Tuesday, December 31

Looking for something special to do on New Year’s Eve? Join the Indelible Shameless Blues at Orchard View. The Indelible Shameless Blues will have the full big band, including keyboard and saxophone for this special occasion.
It’s a great deal: 5 course meal, full open bar, a DJ, midnight buffet, wine, champagne, party favours and, if you wish, you can get a package with a room at the Southway Inn and transportation to and from the event included.
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Groove Junkies
Greenfield’s Pub, 900 Greenbank Road
Tuesday, December 31; $100/general admission $40

Join us at Greenfields to welcome in the New Year. This year we are super excited to have the Groove Junkies for your entertainment.
Complimentary cocktail hour 6pm-7pm (2 drinks per person, your choice)
Prime Rib Buffet with complimentary wine and all the fixings
Midnight Buffet and complimentary Champagne
Door prizes and lots of fun
After 9pm, we are offering a General Admission ticket for $40 which will include show, midnight buffet, complimentary champagne and door prizes.
Reserve you tickets by calling Maurice @ 613-867-8785 or emailing directly to maurice.stronge@live.com
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Ball and Chain & the Wreckers
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Tuesday, December 31 @ 9:30 pm; $20 advance
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Destiny
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Tuesday, December 31 @ 9 pm
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New Year’s Eve with The Split
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street
Tuesday, December 31; dinner & show $45; show only $20
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New Year’s Eve Party with Maria Hawkins
John Street Pub, 129 John Street, Arnprior ON
Tuesday, December 31 @ 9:30 pm; tickets $15 at the door
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS
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Buck Tingley & the Hard Lookin’ Tickets
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Friday, January 3 @ 10 pm
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Bharath Rajakumar
Atomic Rooster
Saturday, January 4, 4-8 pm
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Slim Moore & the Marquees PLUS Shade Nyx BDay Bash
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, January 4 @ 10 pm
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LOCALS THIS WEEK
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Sunday, January 5
                Brian Downey hosts the Open Blues Jam @ the Rainbow, 4-7 pm
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS (almost) EVERY WEEK
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Al Tambay
Bassline Pub & Eatery, 2557 Baseline Road
Every Tuesday, 8-11 pm; no cover

Al plays here every Tuesday … and sometimes he invites one of his friends to join him.
Check out the food … Al really likes the wraps!
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John Carroll
Chateau Lafayette (The Laff), 42 York Street
Wednesdays, 10 pm
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Solo Piano Wednesdays with Jeff Rogers
Fat Tuesdays, 62 York Street
Wednesdays, 7 pm
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Irene’s Blues AllStars  
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Thursdays, 9 pm – 1 am; no cover

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, this weekly Thursday night jam features Corky Kealey on drums with Vince Halfhide on bass and 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 its continuing popularity. 

Special guests:  
                January 2 – Eric Walker
                January 9 – Russell Levia
                January 16 – Niel Barrington
                January 23 – John Cormier
                January 30 – Ross Neilsen
                February 6 – Dean Dupuis
                February 13 – Derek Downham
                February 20 – Scott Amey
                February 27 – Parker Estabrooks

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Jeff Rogers
RARE Restaurant & Bar, 570 Kanata Avenue
Thursdays, 6-10 pm
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Firebelly
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)
Saturdays, once a month

Firebelly is Mathieu Gagnon on harmonica, Fredy Carriere on guitar, Dan Grewal on bass and Mike McNeil on drums. 
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Open Blues Jam
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Every Sunday, 4-7 pm; cover $3 (jammers free)

The jam is open to all ages.  Jammers sign up on the jam sheet at the door & each jam session lasts for 3 songs.  Drums & amps are provided, you only need to bring your instruments (but you can bring your amps if you want to).
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Sunday Blues, 6-9 pm, no cover
Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street (at MacLaren)

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The Jam @ Kaffé 1870, Wakefield QC
Every Wednesday @ 9 pm, no cover

6 rotating hosts, each specializing in a different genre
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Blues Jam
Avant-Garde Bar & Restaurant, 135½ Besserer Street
First Wednesday of each month @ 8 pm

Hosted by River City Junction, this jam is open to guest performers, but is not an open jam’. 
If you want to play, please contact River City Junction in advance to work out what instrument you play & what songs you would like to do.
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Blues and jazz jam at GigSpace
Alcorn Music Studios, 953 Gladstone Avenue
4th Thursday each month @ 8 pm
                $5 donation kindly encouraged

With Tim Bedner - seven-string guitar; David Pontello – drums; Mark Alcorn - bass
A jazz and blues jam on the fourth Thursday of each month: bring your instrument and sit in on some tunes you enjoy playing, or hang out and listen!
www.alcornmusicstudios.com

www.gigspaceottawa.com
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Blues On Tues   ***on hiatus in January; back in February***
The Granary Beizli, 3270 County Rd 10, Vankleek Hill ON
Third Tuesday of every month@ 7 pm; $10
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Acoustic Roots Series     
Georgian House Restaurant, 146 Main St. S., Alexandria ON
First Wednesday of Every Month

The best Roots/Country/Americana artists will be joining Terry Gillespie for a new Acoustic Roots Series in Alexandria.  Some of them will be up-coming artists and some will be household names … a different musical guest each month.  All of the musician guests are very accomplished and have toured extensively.  We are very privileged to be able to host them right here at home.
Terry will open each evening with a set of his music then the guest will follow with a set of their music.  Each will accompany the other.  Don’t miss a single one.

If you desire to see a special guest, let us know. If they are on the road, we might be able to grab them.  
The Georgian House special musical menu has something fresh and delicious for all budgets.
http://www.georgianhouse.ca
http://www.terrygillespie.ca
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Mississippi Blues Society Jam
Thirsty Moose Pub & Eatery, Bridge Street, Carleton Place
First Tuesday of every month @ 8:30 pm

Hosted by The Thirsty Moose Pub & Eatery & The Mississippi Blues Society, and featuring Barry Buse & Peter Brown, the MBS Blues Jam is the longest-running blues jam in the Greater Ottawa area & one of the best, attracting both musicians & fans from in & out of town.

*8:30 PM is the Estimated Start Time *There's No Cover Charge *Free Parking *Good Food *Ends Early [approx. midnight]

And - just so you know...we pack 'em in for this event, so come in early if you want a good table.
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MAPLE BLUES AWARDS
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The Toronto Blues Society will be celebrating the 17th annual Maple Blues Awards by honouring nationally and internationally recognized Canadian blues artists from across the country on January 20, 2014. The nominees are recognized both for their talent as well as their contribution to the growing Canadian blues music scene.  

Montreal’s Queen of the Blues Dawn Tyler Watson and Ottawa’s JW-Jones, both accomplished and internationally recognized blues artists, are set to take command of the "blues goes uptown" not-to-be-missed night out.

Watson and Jones will both perform at the upcoming 17th annual Maple Blues Awards gala on January 20, 2014 at Koerner Hall in Toronto. The Maple Blues Awards is Canada’s national blues celebration, recognizing outstanding musical achievement and gathering blues musicians and music fans from across the country each year.

The January 20th gala event is considered to be the premier blues event of the year. Tickets for the not-to-be-missed Maple Blues Awards, held at The Royal Conservatory's Koerner Hall in Toronto, are on sale now for $35 - $65 and can be purchased at the Weston Family Box Office, located in the TELUS Centre for Performance and Learning at 273 Bloor Street West, Toronto, by phone at (416) 408-0208 or online at https://tickets.rcmusic.ca/public.
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SPECIAL EVENTS – JAN / FEB / MAR 2014
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Michael Kaeshammer
NAC 4th Studio, 53 Elgin Street
Saturday, January 18 @ 8 pm

Kaeshammer’s performances, on record and on stage, are an invitation to join the party. He doesn’t play at you. He plays with you. At one of his shows, you’re all in it together – not only part of the story, but virtually part of the band.

A night with Michael and his band isn’t the kind of show where you just sit, watch and applaud politely every now and then. Their goal isn’t to intimidate you with the scholarly depth of their music, it’s to entertain, inform and include you – A wild ride with no fixed destination except where he feels he and the crowd want to go.

On stage and on record it’s all about drawing the audience in. That’s where the joy is, pure and simple. And while joy is something Michael Kaeshammer has never had difficulty expressing, on “KAESHAMMER”, his third record on Alert Music, the German born, Canadian bred pianist expresses it more enthusiastically than ever.
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Blackie & the Rodeo Kings     ***SOLD OUT***
Music by the Bay Live at Annandale, 221 Church Street South, Ajax ON
Wednesday, January 22; advance tickets $60
To be placed on the waiting list for tickets, email musicbythebay@rogers.com with your name & phone number along with the # of tickets needed & you will be notified if tickets become available.

In 1996, three of Canada’s most prolific musicians got together and created the rockin’ roots sound of Blackie and the Rodeo Kings. Slide guitar virtuoso, Colin Linden has played on over 300 albums. Stephen Fearing is one of Canada most revered songwriters as well as one of the best acoustic pickers anywhere. Tom Wilson, aka LeE HARVey OSMoND has covered every style of music from rhythm and blues to funk to psychobilly.  Together as Blackie and the Rodeo Kings they create a sound so uniquely their own it could never be duplicated.
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24th Street Wailers
NAC 4th Stage, 53 Elgin Street
Saturday, January 25 @ 7:30 pm; tickets from $19 (+taxes)

The 24th Street Wailers are a band that breaks all the rules. Lindsay Beaver is a firehaired gut bucket singer/drummer who fronts the band, who at first glance is anything but the norm. Emily Burgess on lead guitar may appear to be shy, however her playing is both thoughtful and explosive. Saxophonist Jon Wong is a second generation Chinese Canadian who is a modern day version of a 50s Rock ‘n’ Roller. Rounding out the group is Lindsay’s husband Michael Archer, a country boy at heart who turns his Harmony bass into a sound so big you’ll feel it in your soul. They truly are one of the most original and exciting bands on the scene today – the quartet quickly developed their tight grooves, unadulterated live show, and original repertoire in the three years they have been together. With their 2010 debut album “Dirty Little Young’uns” reaching #3 (CAN) and #8 (US) on the Roots Music Report and a smashing sophomore CD in 2012 titled “Unshakeable”, the band is gaining widespread national and international radio play.
http://the24thstreetwailers.com/
http://www.ticketmaster.ca/artist/1897678?lang=en-ca&brand=nac
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Ben Racine Band
Salle la Bascoche, 120, rue Principale, Gatineau, QC
Friday, January 31

Ben’s soulful voice is reminiscent of the greatest Rhythm and Blues vocalists of the ‘50s and ‘60s. Inspired by artists such as Junior Walker, Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder and Clarence Carter, he will take you back to the days when vocals were the center point of music.

He is also a lot more than just a voice. His guitar playing covers a wide range of styles – pleasing blues and funk fans alike. From the moment he hits the stage, his contagious energy and charisma combine for a sound that is truly original. You’ll be tapping your feet within the first few notes.
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Downchild
PDCI Auditorium, Perth ON
Saturday, February 1; tickets $35, $45, $55

Downchild is Canada's best-known and best-loved Blues band. Formed in Toronto in 1969 by Donnie Walsh (guitar, harmonica) and his brother Hock (lead vocals) they were inspired by the Chicago jump Blues style of Jimmy Reed and James Cotton. The band became internationally famous when 3 of their songs were featured on the Blues Brothers "Briefcase Full Of Blues" album and movie in 1979. It is said that John Belushi “Jake” and Dan Aykroyd “Elwood” took the idea for their characters from the Walsh brothers. Although there have been many different musicians in the band over the past 44 years their sound has remained the same. The current members have has been together since the early 1990s - Donnie Walsh on guitar and harp, Chuck Jackson on vocals and harp, Michael Fonfara on keyboards, Pat Carey on sax, Gary Kendall on bass and Mike Fitzpatrick on drums. Over their long career all of them have been nominated for and/or won Maple Blues Awards and the band has also won a Juno, 4 Maple Blues Awards and the CBC’s “Great Canadian Blues Band” Award. Downchild has recorded 17 albums over their career including their most recent "Can You Hear The Music". This concert is part of their Canadian tour in support of it. This will be a great night of big band, big time Blues!

The concert is a fundraiser for the PERTH SPLASH PAD and is being presented by BURNS JEWELLERS - the Ottawa Valley's leading jeweller for over 88 years - and produced by CHOOSE THE BLUES PRODUCTIONS, organizer of the successful Blues On The Rideau Fundraiser Series at The Cove Inn in Westport for the past 9 years. Further info and tickets www.burnsjewellers.com
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Lyle Lovatt & John Hiatt
NAC Southam Hall, 53 Elgin Street
Sunday, February 2 @ 7:30 pm; tickets starting @ $53

Lyle Lovett first appeared on the scene in the late ‘80s. His recording and performance career has brought us great moments of Big Band Texas Swing, tender countrified Acoustic Folk, and always that brilliant Texas influenced wit. He has even dabbled in Hollywood films, including the much-celebrated "the Player", directed by Robert Altman, plus his film scoring including collaboration with Randy Newman. His recording work has been rewarded with Grammy Awards for Country recordings, even though his various recordings have largely been rejected by mainstream country radio. His latest CD is again with his Large Band, and is titled "It’s Not Big, It’s Large".

John Hiatt, who hails from Indiana, but lives in Nashville (and is a big Predator fan), has a recording career that spans way back to the mid-‘70s with his Vinyl Collector’s favourite, “Overcoats”. Bouncing around several record companies he did not find real success until his late 80’s recording “ Bring the Family”, which was recorded in only four days with his musical friends, Ry Cooder, Nick Lowe, and Jim Keltner, later to be know collectively as Little Village. This CD offered us the Hiatt classics, “Have a Little Faith in Me”, “Lipstick Sunset”, “Memphis in the Meantime”, and “Thing Called Love”. Its success both commercially and critically would provide the foundation for 9 more John Hiatt CD’s, the most recent being “Master of Disaster”, released in 2005. Hiatt’s work has been recorded by many other noted artists that include Bob Dylan, Bonnie Raitt, Eric Clapton, Willie Nelson, Linda Ronstadt, Jimmy Buffett and Iggy Pop to name just a few.

Lyle Lovett and John Hiatt are two of contemporary music’s greatest and most celebrated singer-songwriters. It is a rare occasion when an audience gets to see such talent as this together on one intimate stage. Join Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt at NAC Southam Hall  and revel in their timeless songs and countless stories. Just a reminder, when Lyle and John last appeared together at the NAC in February 2008, the show sold out well in advance.
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Ben Sures (+ another band TBA)
Irene’s Pub, 885 Ban Street
Friday, February 7 @ 9:30 pm

Ben Sures has, for the most part, been a solo singer songwriter for the past twenty years and sideman to people like Rita Chiarelli, Paul Reddick, Harpdog Brown and umpteen other Blues and Roots acts. His live show is captivating, he is a great entertainer, funny, smart, musical and a gifted guitar player.  He has won and been a finalist in all the International Songwriting contests, John Lennon, International and The USA songwriting competition.

Ben has a new album – “Son of Trouble” – a Blues, African Blues, Roots record sung in English, French and Spanish. Toronto’s John Valenteyn said, “ ‘I Could Be Your Man’ has some of the most outrageous rhymes you’ll ever hear…. Sures is also the guitar player and his blues work is an absolute delight throughout.” And Bob Mersereau (The Top 100 Canadian Singles) commented, “Hearing his deconstruction of ‘See That My Grave Is Kept Clean ‘is worth the price alone.  He's someone who really knows how to breathe fresh life into a too-often staid genre."
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Black History Month Celebration with
Terry Gillespie’s Roots Man Band
Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC
Sunday, February 9 @ 4:20 pm

Owen Brown on bass, Peter Measroch on piano, Wayne Stoute on drums, special guest K-man!
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Jack de Keyzer
Music by the Bay Live at Annandale, 221 Church Street South, Ajax ON
Friday, February 14; $45 show only, $70 dinner & show

Valentine’s Day ‘Electric Love’ Dinner & Show with 2010 Juno Award Winner & 7 X Maple Blues Award Winner – blues guitar.
Electric Love…a rock blues album with nods to guitar influences Clapton, Hendrix and Page’… a disc of excellent new songs by a bluesman who should be considered their equal. It is also beautifully recorded, Jack’s vocals and guitar have never sounded better.”  (Maple Blues, John Valentyne)   

Dinner Option #1 New York Sirloin Angus Steak (8oz); Served with grilled onions and mushrooms, choice of rice or potato, seasonal vegetable, rolls, dessert, coffee & tea
Dinner Option #2 Stuffed Chicken Breast (4oz)
A succulent breast stuffed with roasted red peppers and cream cheese served with a mushroom and white wine sauce; Choice of rice or potato, seasonal vegetable, rolls, dessert, coffee & tea
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Kelly Joe Phelps
Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC
Saturday, February 15 @ 8:30 pm; $15

The new record Brother Sinner And The Whale is out! This record is going to be a fun one to roll along with; it’s got a lot of light streaming thru the windows, and all the doors are wide open. A dozen songs full, half of which are played on a National slide guitar, and the other half on a Martin D-35 (a black Johnny Cash model at that!), ten of ‘em sung, and a pair of instrumentals as well. Really looking forward to getting this out to you folks.
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Old Man Luedecke
with Jordie Lane
Black Sheep Inn, Wakefield QC
Sunday, February 16 @ 4:20 pm; $20

Old Man Luedecke has a penchant for language. Based in Chester, Nova Scotia, the award-winning roots singer-songwriter’s latest album, “Tender Is The Night”, gives nod to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s famous novel, a title lifted from John Keats poem, ‘Ode To A Nightingale.’ With skillful precision and a storyteller’s heart, Luedecke’s narrative-driven folk songs are playful, coy, and soul warming. Rich in metaphor, heart and instrumentation, “Tender Is The Night” muses on love, art and purpose.

“Tender Is The Night” goes beyond his beloved solo, banjo-driven folk tunes. Driving a Nashville band from beginning to end with his recognizable voice, this is an artist honing his cunning lyrical flair – tenderly pushing the boundaries of his storytelling with his unique mix of folk, bluegrass and pop hooks.

Old Man Luedecke is just home from a wonderful tour of Australia with the awesome Jordie Lane. Now Jordie is coming to Canada to tour with him across the country … tonnes of dates … with a fuller sound that he’s quite excited about!
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Matt Andersen
Empire Theatre, Belleville ON
Friday, February 21 @ 7:30 pm

Growing up in Perth-Andover, you learn a thing or two about the tough grind. The family-oriented, blue-collar community is home to singer-songwriter and guitarist Matt Andersen. While manual labour wasn’t his calling, hard work is something you pride yourself on growing up in a small-town. Having played over 200 shows in 2012, his work ethic has never been questioned.

Matt’s narrative-driven writing cuts through the soul, blending blues and folk, encompassed in total honesty. He takes listeners on a ride with his diverse musical styles, skilled guitar work and over-the-top showmanship. Matt’s intimate, high-energy performances have captivated audiences across the world, from Canada, to the US, to Australia and the UK, from small clubs to festivals.

He’s touring in support of his new CD, “Weightless” to be released in February.
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Swamperella
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Saturday, February 22 @ 9:30 pm

After 15 years of partying up crowds at the Gladstone Hotel, Swamperella has deserved its acclaim as a guaranteed good time. The eclectic demographic that is attracted to Swamperella’s monthly events attests to this acclaim. If you don’t think you want to dance, just listening to the band, and watching the crowd’s energy is almost as fun. But, dancing or not, you probably won’t be standing still - the Swamperella sound won’t let you - and the scene will keep you smiling.

The original mandate of Swamperella, "to honour the Cajun music tradition", has never been compromised. The integrity of the traditional form and sentiment has always been maintained even as originals and Zydeco began seeping into the Swamperella repertoire. But there’s nothing stodgy about this band. The old time flavour stirred up in a brand new pot makes for a fabulous and rich musical experience and the Swamp-stew just keeps getting yummier. Our 2007 release – “On The Line” - is full of Sweet Cajun ballads, knock-out two steps, Creole, Zydeco, along with tasty surprises - standards such as Corrina with a New Orlean’s beat and originals such as ‘Same Old You’, ‘Katrina’ - a twin fiddle memorial to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and ‘The Frankenstein’ - a zinging Zydeco party tune (tongue in cheek reference to Zydeco King Keith Frank). “Leopard Skin Coat”, our 4th CD was released in February 2013, and features rocking Swamperella originals some classic Cajun and Creole favourites.

Swamperella can rock a festival tent with fabulous two-steps and zydeco faves, perform a riveting main stage concert and play acoustically, front porch-style, all in the same day. From Cajun twin fiddling and rustic solo accordion, to rockin’ washboard-driven Zydeco originals and traditional tunes, the Swamp experience is exciting, heartfelt and authentic.
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Rob Lutes
Salle la Bascoche, 120, rue Principale, Gatineau, QC
Friday, February 28

Rob Lutes is a soulful singer-songwriter from Montreal with an ever-growing collection of literate, moving meditations on life and love.

Rob Lutes is widely known for his superb songwriting, fingerstyle mastery and soulful vocals. With The Bravest Birds, he delivers an exquisite collection of songs that inhabits the intersection of blues, Americana and the contemporary singer-songwriter genres and includes the blazing instrumental Turning Point.

Since his first release, Gravity, in 2000, the Montreal-based musician who originally hails from the town of Rothesay, New Brunswick, has become widely known for his impassioned live performances, featuring extraordinary playing, a bit of improvisational magic and Lutes’ intense, gritty vocals. He is a former Kerrville winnerand Maple Blues, CFMAand Lys Blues nominee.
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Matt Andersen
NAC Southam Hall , 53 Elgin Street
Friday, February 28 @ 7:30 pm

Growing up in Perth-Andover, you learn a thing or two about the tough grind. The family-oriented, blue-collar community is home to singer-songwriter and guitarist Matt Andersen. While manual labour wasn’t his calling, hard work is something you pride yourself on growing up in a small-town. Having played over 200 shows in 2012, his work ethic has never been questioned.

Matt’s narrative-driven writing cuts through the soul, blending blues and folk, encompassed in total honesty. He takes listeners on a ride with his diverse musical styles, skilled guitar work and over-the-top showmanship. Matt’s intimate, high-energy performances have captivated audiences across the world, from Canada, to the US, to Australia and the UK, from small clubs to festivals.

He’s touring in support of his new CD, “Weightless” to be released in February.
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Soulstack
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Friday February 28 & Saturday March 1

“Five Finger Discount” is the sophomore release from Southern Ontario roots and blues band Soulstack. Produced by singer / guitarist Jonathan Knight, the album tracks the organic evolution of the band as it continues to grow in musical breadth and depth, picking up where their highly acclaimed first album, “Big Red”, left off. The ever creative, prolific  and often competitive songwriting team of Jon Knight and Mark Wessenger once again bring beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics to the table, expertly captured on “Five Finger Discount”. The band’s return to Canterbury Music Company studio with famed engineer Jeremy Darby has once again proven to be a soulful, sonic success.

With the addition of guitarist Chris Latta on tremolo-soaked baritone and standard guitars, and the huge bass chair being shared by Harpo Peterson and Josh Knight, the album’s sound is full and deep with layers of pure heart and soul.  With his heavy and thick grooves, award-winning drummer Tom Bona shines throughout and provides the band with an inspired, rock-solid foundation.

The greasy and gritty approach to that vintage sound of “Big Red” is carried on and kicked up a few notches on “Five Finger Discount”. The band wears its influences proudly upon its collective sleeve and will steal the hearts, and ears of fans of the great southern bands of yesteryear. Just ask the thousands of people who witnessed blistering performances by Soulstack this past summer at some of Canada’s biggest music festivals, including Montreal Jazz, Mont Tremblant, Kitchener Blues, Toronto Waterfront Blues Festival and in the Ottawa area, at the Calabogie Blues & Ribfest.

Soulstack faithfully walks the path laid out by their heavy stack of influences; the time-honoured traditions of roots, blues, soul and rock and roll. (Sarah French)
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Cheap Trick
                with openers MonkeyJunk
NAC Southam Hall, 53 Elgin Street
Thursday, March 13 @ 8 pm; tickets starting @ $52

Cheap Trick may be one of the most covered bands of all time. Since the ‘70s they’ve been blending elements of pop, punk and even metal in a way that is instantly catchy and recognizable. With more than 5,000 performances, 20 million records sold, 29 movie soundtracks and 40 gold and platinum recording awards, the band was honoured in October 2007 by the Chicago Chapter of NARAS (National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences) for their contributions to the music industry. 

Their most current release, “The Latest”, (released on CD, vinyl and 8-track) has garnered glowing reviews worldwide and continues Cheap Trick’s reign as power-pop progenitors as they continue their legacy of over 35 years in the music industry.

Ottawa’s own MonkeyJunk will be opening 3 shows for Cheap Trick in Ontario in March 2014 … playing shows with these rock ‘n’ roll legends in Hamilton, Toronto and Ottawa in some legendary venues! A great opportunity to get some more exposure for their latest release, “All Frequencies”.
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Jack de Keyzer
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Friday, March 14 @ 10 pm

Electric Love…a rock blues album with nods to guitar influences Clapton, Hendrix and Page’… a disc of excellent new songs by a bluesman who should be considered their equal. It is also beautifully recorded, Jack’s vocals and guitar have never sounded better.”  (Maple Blues, John Valentyne)   
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Paul Deslauriers CD Release
                with special guest Steve Marriner
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, March 15 @ 10 pm

A virtuoso on both electric and acoustic guitars, Paul Deslauriers is part of Canada’s guitar elite and is considered one of Quebec’s overall best guitarists; but it doesn’t stop there, he’s also a powerful and expressive singer. Winner of the Lys Blues Award for Best Artistic Performance in 2011, Album of the Year in 2008 (“En Duo”), and Best Musical Performance in 2005, he was also nominated at the Maple Blues Awards in 2008 for Acoustic Act of the Year along with Dawn Tyler Watson for their album "En Duo". In 2010 Deslauriers was musical director, producer, and performer on the “Nos Stars Chantent Le Blues à Montréal” CD for L’équipe Spectra and the Montreal International Jazz Festival. Paul's 2006 solo release “Ripping Into Red” garnered rave reviews in the April 2007 issue of Guitar Player Magazine. Editor in Chief Michael Molenda had this to say about him: "Deslauriers really knows how to grab your ears from note one... He's also a gifted songwriter and vocalist, and his solos, especially the slide lines, are short, but thrilling!"

Since 1997 he has fronted the Paul Deslauriers Band, and proudly showing his rock colors and his true to the blues roots. With over two decades of experience in the music industry (began his career in his early teens!), seven albums under his belt, and a list of fans that extends into Europe and the US, this guitarist/singer/songwriter/producer has truly mastered his art!
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Triple Bill:
Matt Andersen (New Brunswick), Steve Hill (Montreal) & Kim Churchill (Australia)
Museum of Civilization, Gatineau QC
Saturday, March 15; tickets $40, 60+ $37, students $35

Matt Andersen’s narrative-driven writing cuts through the soul, blending blues and folk, encompassed in total honesty. He takes listeners on a ride with his diverse musical styles, skilled guitar work and over-the-top showmanship. Matt’s intimate, high-energy performances have captivated audiences across the world, from Canada, to the US, to Australia and the UK, from small clubs to festivals. He’s touring in support of his new CD, “Weightless” to be released in February.

Steve Hill’s recent emphasis has been on his solo show, and in 2012, he released “Solo Recordings Volume 1. Probably his rawest album ever, it features Hill not only on guitar and vocals, but also on bass drum, hi-hat, shakers and whatever he can do with his feet at the same time that he plays guitar and sings! Recorded live in the studio (with NO overdubs), it’s the sound of a man that has lived through a lot. 15 years after his first album, you can hear and feel a maturity that can only exist out of experience. Submitted by the Montreal Blues Society, “Solo Recordings Volume 1” was chosen at the Best Self-Produced CD at the 2013 International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN. “Solo Recordings Volume 1.5” followed and “Solo Recordings Volume 2” is in the works.

It's the soothing sound of Kim Churchill who plays a guitar with the busiest of fingers and the rhythm of a master, and who sings lyrics too enigmatic to believe they came from someone so young. He's a true blue Aussie; a surfer with a connection to the sea that spills out in his performances, even when he's a long, long way from the beach. And he's a reminder to us all that choosing what's in your heart is better than choosing what's in your head.

Kim doesn't just show up and play his music. He takes the time to explain his songs, he takes the time to thank the crowd and he pauses to inhale the manifestation of his dream. In an age full of self-centered performers who consider fanfare a right and not a privilege, Kim is a breath of fresh air. Will he grow cold from the gig and start to play his songs just for the money? Who knows, but the greatest reason for hope that Kim won't follow a long list of burnt out performers is his connection to the sea, which he can use like an ace up the sleeve. It's that union with nature that will ground him, it's a bond that may protect him from the vultures, prevent him from following and instead give him the confidence to lead.
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Cooper Brothers 40th Anniversary Celebration
Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Drive
Friday, March 21 @ 8 pm; tickets $45

In 1974, a young Ottawa band named The Cooper Brothers, lead by brothers Dick and Brian Cooper, hit the airwaves with a song called ‘Finally with You!’ and the music world took note of their catchy songs and intricate vocal sound.

By 1978 they had scored an international record deal with legendary Georgia-based Capricorn Records and a string of hits followed including ‘The Dream Never Dies’, ‘Rock 'n Roll Cowboys’, ‘Know Her When I See Her’ and ‘Show Some Emotion’ hitting the charts both in Canada the U.S. At the height of their career the band toured extensively throughout North America, performing with such diverse artists as The Doobie Brothers, James Taylor, Joe Cocker, Charlie Daniels, Atlanta Rhythm Section, McGuinn, Clark and Hillman and AC/DC.

2014 marks the 40th Anniversary of the band and The Cooper Brothers are celebrating in style. They will be inviting musical friends from near and far to join them onstage for a special, not-to-be-missed performance, which will include past favourites and songs from their latest albums, “In From the Cold” and “Southbound”.
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ZAPP Productions
Johnny Winter and Jimmy Bowskill Double Bill
Uxbridge Music Hall
Friday, March 21
and
Lindsay Academy Theatre
Saturday, March 22

A dynamite double bill – Johnny Winter and Jimmy Bowskill.

New Johnny Winter iPad App on iTunes! Learn all about the life and music of Johnny Winter through an illustrated mini-book and audio clips of Johnny sharing thoughts and experiences. Then learn some of Winter’s blues licks, riffs, turnarounds, and solos played by the master himself.

Jimmy Bowskill has been impressing his musical elders for a full decade now. At age 11, he attracted the attention of late great bluesman Jeff Healey by busking outside his Toronto club. Healey and the local blues community quickly sensed Bowskill's passion and potential, helping him record his 2003 debut album, the fittingly named “Old Soul”. The following year, Jimmy's second album, “Soap Bars & Dog Ears”, was nominated for a Juno Award, making him the youngest ever Juno nominee. Since then, he has worked tirelessly on his craft. The fruits of those labours can now be heard on his 5th release, “Back Number”, one you definitely won't want to forget.
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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU – 2013-14
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The 9th year for what has become one of the most popular Blues Series in Canada, the first BOTR show takes place October 25, then one show a month (December excluded) right through to May. As in the past all BOTR Shows are fundraisers for different Westport charities. To date over $45,000 has been raised and the goal this year is to hit another $5,000.

For the third season in a row, despite higher costs and inflation, the price for these nights is staying the same - $60 (plus HST) which includes a delicious all-you-can-eat buffet served up by The Cove, the Show, dancing and a donation to charity. Being able to hold the price is due in part to the support of our new Sponsor – Dan Aykroyd Wines
DanAykroydWines.com – for which we are very grateful and we welcome them on board. 101.9 DAWG FM Ottawa www.dawgfm.com also continues as a Sponsor and again, we are very grateful for their support.

January 10
RICK FINES & SUZIE VINNICK w. BAND 
rickandsuzie.com/wp/
Musical friends for over 20 years, fabulous songwriters (they’ve both won International Songwriting Awards), great singers (Suzie has won the Maple Blues Award for Best Female Vocalist 6 of the past 10 years!) and excellent guitarists.  Either one of these artists is worth the price of admission - together they’re dynamite!  Their 4th visit to The Cove.
PROCEEDS TO FRIENDS OF FOLEY MOUNTAIN

February 15
STEVE STRONGMAN*
Unquestionably one of Canada’s best Blues singer/songwriter/harp players/guitarists. Won the Juno last year for best Blues album plus 3 Maple Blues Awards - Guitarist , Recording & Songwriter of the Year. Nominated for 2 more this year. Always delivers a great show. His 3rd visit to The Cove. 
*Replaces Boogie Patrol who were originally booked & unable to make it.
PROCEEDS TO EASTER SEALS EASTERN ONTARIO

March 14
JW-JONES BAND
Ottawa singer, songwriter and one of the best contemporary Blues guitarists in the world today. 11 Maple Blues Award nominations! - JW has played with artists like Kim Wilson, David “Fathead” Newman, Little Charlie Baty, Hubert Sumlin & Junior Watson performing in 19 countries on 4 continents. Dan Aykroyd calls them “one amazing Blues band”. They are.
PROCEEDS TO RIDEAU WATERWAY LAND TRUST

April 18
THE HOGTOWN ALLSTARS
All stars indeed! 6 veteran players from two of Canada’s most famous Blues bands - Downchild and Fathead. Chuck Jackson vocals & harp, Teddy Leonard guitar, Michael Fonfara keyboards, Pat Carey sax, Gary Kendall bass and Mike Fitzpatrick drums. All of them have won Junos and/or Maple Blues Awards. High grade, big time Blues!
PROCEEDS TO WESTPORT’S RIDEAU VISTA & ST. EDWARD’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

May 9 & 10 – *2 night stand*
DAVID ROTUNDO BAND
www.davidrotundo.com
David blows harp as if possessed by the ghosts of Sonny Boy Williamson, Little Walter and George Harmonica Smith. Combined with his great voice, mesmerizing stage performance and tight band this is the most popular act to ever play BOTR @ The Cove and that’s why they’re back again for 2 nights. Get your tickets early for this one.
PROCEEDS TO RIDEAU DISTRICT MUSEUM & WESTPORT IN BLOOM

$60 DINNER & SHOW
ADVANCE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED 
Book ahead – most shows sell out in advance
1-888-COVE-INN or (613) 273-3636
Well-priced accommodation available at the Cove and nearby B&Bs

More information including bios, YOUTUBE & song samples of the artists at
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KINGSTON BLUES
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BLUES BANDS OF ONTARIO SERIES
The Standeasy @ the RCHA Club, 193 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Saturdays (see below) @ 8:30 pm; $3.00 @ door

This extremely successful series presents blues bands from all across Ontario. These are some of the very best bands in the province; most of them have had incredible success in their own cities but have yet to crack the national scene. This is a great opportunity to see some high quality blues bands that you would not normally get to see - and for just $3 - you just can't find a better way to spend the first Saturday of each month - hope to see you there.

The Fall Line-up for the Blues Bands Ontario Series
Saturday January 4                            Dan Deslauriers Band
Saturday February 1                          River City Junction
Saturday March 1                                The Indelible Shameless Blues Band
Saturday April 5                   Wicked Grin
                Saturday              May 3                                    Double Double
Saturday June 6                   Redneck Limousine        

Kingston Blues Society
613-384-8168
info@kingstonbluessociety.ca
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KINGSTON REGULAR EVENTS
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KBS Monthly Jam
The Standeasy
RCHA Club, 193 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Third Saturday each month @ 8:30 pm, $3 at the door

The KBS monthly jam is now in its 6th year. The house is always full and both the musicians and the audience always have a great time. Always one of the best nights of entertainment Kingston has to offer – come early as seating is limited. Sponsored by the Kingston Arts Council and the City of Kingston
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The Ones
Monte’s in the Prince George Hotel, 200 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Every Thursday night @ 9 pm 

Shaun Riley and the Chrome Hearts
Host a regular open jam every Thursday, 9:30 pm – 1 am
at Tir Nan Og, 200 Ontario Street

Sam Hopkins and Spencer Evans
Upstairs @ the Brew Pub
Every Second Sunday 2-4 PM

Shaun Riley and the Chrome Hearts
Host a regular open jam every Sunday, 8-11 pm
Rhea's Bar and Grill, 493 Princess St. (at University Ave.)
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For more, please contact Kingston Blues Society
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BLUES ON THE RADIO
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101.9 DAWG-FM, CIDG, is ON THE AIR!  Blues 24/7
Live streaming on the website at http://www.dawgfm.com/

Sundays: 8-9 pm
Ottawa Blues Society DAWG’ON BLUES
Each week OBS hosts keep you up to date on what’s happening on the Ottawa area blues scene, play some great blues from local bands and showcase regional and Canadian talent.
This week, January 5 – OBS DAWG’ON BLUES Maple Blues Awards nominees – Songwriter & Acoustic Act
Next week, January 12 – OBS DAWG’ON BLUES – Maple Blues Awards nominees – New Artist & International
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Sundays: 7-8 pm
INSIDE THE BLUES
with James Doran
Inside The Blues features music and interesting backgrounder information on today’s top Blues artists with a strong focus on Canadian talent mixed in with some great Blues classics. All Shows are archived on www.insidetheblues.ca after broadcast and can be listened to there at any time. 
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On CKCU-FM 93.1
The Mighty 93.1
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: 9-11 pm
In A Mellow Tone
with Ron Sweetman
Jazz from every era & every style – from 1917 to 2014. 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).  Stream and view past episodes here: http://cod.ckcufm.com/programs/94/info.html.
Ron is always happy to hear from listeners at ronsweetman@kalixo.com
This week, January 1 – New Year-New Releases: Ron Sweetman plays a selection of recent jazz releases including pianists Miles Black, Connie Crothers, Carsten Dahl, Satoko Fuiji, Craig Hartley, Mike Jones, Roberto Magris & Howard Riley.
Next week, January 8 – New Year-New Releases: Ron Sweetman plays a selection of recent jazz releases including saxophonists Ab Baars, Professor Cunningham, Charles Evans, Kenny Garrett, Shannon Graham, Clarence Johnson, Jessica Jones, Roscoe Mitchell, Ivo Perelman & Ben Webster.
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On CBC Radio Two 103.3 FM
Saturdays: 6-8 pm
On CBC Radio One 91.5 FM
Saturdays: 9-11 pm
Saturday Night Blues
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.
And check out SNB videos here http://www.cbc.ca/snb/video/
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On CJHR 98.7 Valley Heritage Radio
Thursdays, 8-10 pm
Got The Blues
Pat Watters is your host for this blues only radio show, now in its 6th year.  It can be heard throughout the Ottawa Valley and streaming on the internet at valleyheritageradio.ca.
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Streaming great Blues, Roots, Soul, R&B, Folk, East Coast and Celtic music across Canada and around the world 24/7/365.
Check out their Canadian Blues shows and hosts including James Doran’s ‘Inside The Blues’, Brant Zwicker’s ‘At The Crossroads’, Johnny Max’s ‘Sunday Morning Soul’, along with Mark Stenzler's ‘Blues Zeppelin’ from Switzerland … and lots more Canadian and international Blues shows. 
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LOCALS LOOK AHEAD
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Friday, January 10
                JW-Jones @ the Rainbow Bistro, 10 pm
Saturday, January 11
                Jesse Greene Band @ Irene’s Pub, 9:30 pm
Sunday, January 12
                Maria Hawkins hosts the Open Blues Jam @ the Rainbow, 4-7 pm
                Wicked Grin @ the Atomic Rooster, 6-9 pm
Friday, January 17
                Drew Nelson Band @ Irene’s Pub, 9:30 pm
Saturday, January 18
                Tony D Band @ the Rainbow Bistro, 10 pm
Sunday, January 19
                River City Junction hosts the Open Blues Jam @ the Rainbow, 4-7 pm
Saturday, January 25
                MonkeyJunk in Concert @ Black Sheep Inn, 8:30 pm
Saturday, February 1
                Tunes After Noon with Greg Kelly & friends & Al Wood @ Mooney’s Bay Bistro, 1-3 pm
                Steve Marriner Band with special guest Ross Neilsen @ the Rainbow, 10 pm
Saturday, February 8
                The B Sides @ the Rainbow Bistro, 10 pm
Sunday, February 9
                Terry Gillespie’s Roots Man Band @ the Black Sheep Inn, 4:20 pm
Saturday, February 15
                Lynn Hansen & Band & Al Wood & the Woodsmen @ Irene’s Pub, 9:30 pm
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