23 February 2015

Ottawa Blues This Week - 23 February 2015

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SPECIAL EVENTS THIS WEEK
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The Nina Project
National Arts Centre 4th Stage, 53 Elgin Street
Monday, February 23 @ 7:30 pm; $50

The Nina Project highlights three award-winning, internationally acclaimed African-Canadian vocalists – Jackie Richardson, Kellylee Evans and Shakura S’Aida – performing the music & lyrics of Nina Simone. Few jazz vocalists have remained as relevant across generations as Nina Simone. Her music is still played in its original form, in dance/house tracks and everything in between. 
What happens when three top-ranked vocalists, whose combined musical experience equals ninety-five years on one stage, share their interpretation of Nina Simone?
Answer: The Nina Project.
Simone’s influence shows through their diverse performances. Evans recently won a Juno for her Nina tribute album, S’Aida performed a Simone tribute to a sold out audience, while Richardson’s repertoire has included her favourite Nina songs for years. 
Through three generations of Canadian Black entertainers, The Nina Project shows how timeless, classic and sophisticated Simone was, and how strongly her music prevails.
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Jack de Keyzer
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Friday, February 27 @ 9:30 pm; $10

Always touring with an incredible band, Jack will have you rocking in your seat and swaying to his hot blues, soulful R&B and cool soul jazz. World class.
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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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“Take the load off!” Fundraiser
In support of fellow musician Joe Gaspar
Moose McGuire’s, 3320 McCarthy Road
Saturday, February 28; 2 pm

In order to help him with the expenses of treatments and day to day living etc., some of the city’s top musicians are holding an all-day fundraiser so that various bands and people can come out and show support for Joe. The event will run from 2 pm – 2 am Sunday morning. Check online for the final lineup https://www.facebook.com/events/1394299214210424/permalink/1401997036773975/

There will be prizes, draws, 50/50 and so on. We would love your support and helping spread the word to make this a successful event, bring your musician friends, friends and let’s show Ottawa that the musician community supports one of its own! 

For all those who can't make the fundraiser, you can send Joe a message of support and or financial support to the email address below:
Messages & Interac Email Transfers: gasparjoe@yahoo.com
Pass Phrase for Interac Email Transfers: joefund

For those of you who have not heard of or actually “heard” Joe here is a little bit of info about the man:

Joe Gaspar is a multi-talented musician who arrived in Canada from the European scenes; blues was always his guidance. He was a founder of the Romanian power-trio Quo Vadis, playing bass guitar and doing lead vocals for over 12 years. 
He is constantly researching the ways of music; due to his outstanding vocal abilities he is invited to join groups of different genre, singing in rock operas, playing keyboards, guitar and bass or even conducting choirs. 

2010 found Joe on stage at the prestigious Ottawa Blues Fest. Joe has also competed in the OBS Road to Memphis challenge for three consecutive years. He also performs with Crunchy Flower (Bass & Vocals), Rocksnake (Lead Vocals & Keys) in the past was also lead vocals and keys for Union Jack. The Joe Gaspar Band was created in September 2011 to give life to his original ideas. In 2013 a Romanian author came to Ottawa to interview Joe and film a documentary showcasing all the Romanian expat musicians who left to pursue their careers in other countries. Back home in Hungary/Romania Joe is heralded as one of the country’s finest blues voices to every grace a stage; he has been included in various books and movie documentaries. 

Why Cancer Fundraising
Upon being diagnosed with cancer, a person's life changes dramatically. Daily concerns have to take second place to completing all the tests, doctor visits and paperwork that are needed in order to plan the cancer treatment. Once the treatment is started and a general plan is put into place, the patient's attention may turn to questions about finances.
While cancer treatment is expensive, it's not just the treatment that is costly. A cancer diagnosis can affect a family's finances in the following ways:
·         Lost wages from the individual diagnosed, from not able to work through treatment
·         The financial aid for his children when he is not working while undergoing treatment 
·         Increased insurance premiums
·         Individuals in treatment need special food, comfort items and over the counter medications to help with side effects of treatment
All these costs come at neither a time when the individual has neither the emotional energy nor the time to deal with additional financial stressors.

Come on out show some love and help us kick Cancer in the ASS!
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS THIS WEEK
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Virée Blues Boréale presents
Harrison Kennedy
Le Petit Chicago, 50 Promenade du Portage, Gatineau (Old-Hull)
Wednesday, February 25 @ 8 pm; tickets $20
            (Ottawa Blues Society with membership card - $15)

The achievements of this Grand Performer on the North American music scene, the next guest on Virée Blues Boréale, make him one of the best-known artists to have performed on Virée Blues Boréale’s stage. Ex-member of The Chairmen of the Board, he also worked with the majors:  to name just a few, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder! Millions of albums sold, appearances on the Johnny Carson Tonight Show and on England’s Top Of The Pops, lots of nominations, honours and awards at the JUNOs as well as at the Maple Blues Awards and 2nd place in the solo/duo category, against 83 of from all over the world best at the 27th edition of The Blues Foundation's International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee.   The Living Legend of the Blues and of Motown, Harrison Kennedy, is back at the 21st edition of Virée Blues Boréale. www.harrisonkennedy.ca
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Cécile Doo-Kingué CD launch
Le Petit Chicago, 50 promenade du Portage, Gatineau QC
Saturday, February 28 @ 9 pm

Hey Ottawa, Gatineau, Outaouais!
I’ll be at Le Petit Chicago Saturday, February 28th to introduce you to my newborn. No need for gifts, just bring your fine selves and some friends to the party. It’s gonna be hot!
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BLUES FURTHER DOWN THE ROAD
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Matt Schofield
Violet’s Venue, 52 Morrow Road, Barrie ON
Friday & Saturday, February 27-28; Doors: 7:15 pm, Show: 8:15 pm; $85

Matt Schofield is lauded as the British blues guitarist of current times. With his latest release, “Far As I Can See”, Schofield finds himself as representative for the long tradition of British Blues, and gaining a home amongst his peers – the world's greatest contemporary blues players.

And the Schofield story is exploding internationally; the world is sitting up and taking note. Indeed, the new collection finds Schofield in stunning form, able to justify both his fearsome reputation as well as the sense of anticipation around this release. Alongside two choice covers from his musical heroes, the album’s nine original tracks showcase his continued growth as an exciting songwriter within the genre, delivered with impassioned vocals to create a diverse and unique take on the blues. “Far As I Can See” is his fifth studio album … he imbues this album with stunning musicianship; but never at the expense of heart and soul.

“Far As I Can See” is the work of a mercurial and important artist, a collection of material that brings together all that is best in its sphere. As Premier Guitar magazine confirmed: “No longer just a guitarist to keep an eye out for, Schofield has arrived, and cements his status as an important contemporary bluesman.”
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MonkeyJunk
Wilno Tavern, Wilno ON
Saturday, February 28; $25 advance, $30 at the door

Dance, Party, Celebrate, Break the Winter Blues with this Party Band of expert musicians! They normally play venues much bigger than the Wilno, but EVERYONE LOVE WILNO! So because of you, the great crowds, they are coming back again!

In their relatively short 6 year existence, Ottawa, Canada-based MonkeyJunk has cultivated a unique blend of SWAMP ROOTS ROCK. Their extensive touring has helped to develop a notable fan base across Canada, the US and Europe. Tony D plays guitar; Steve Marriner sings, plays baritone guitar and harmonica; Matt Sobb plays drums.

They have been rewarded for their hard work with many awards including:
2014 Canadian Independent Music Award – Blues Artist/Group of the Year
2014 Juno Award nominee – Blues Album of the Year
2012 Juno Award winner – Blues Album of the Year
2008-2013 – 20 Maple Blues Awards
2010 Canadian Independent Music Award – Blues Artist/Group of the Year
2010 Blues Music Award (USA) – Best New Artist Debut

“The Sultans of Swamp R&B” – William Shatner

“MonkeyJunk are keeping the spirits of Muddy Waters and the other roots giants alive with their own unique brand of music. Check it out – you won’t be disappointed.” – David Wilcox

“Loved your CD, some really cool tunes – It is one I find myself listening to over and over again” – Ritchie Hayward, Little Feat

“Blues, raw and different.” – Star Trek captain/Canadian actor/musician Bruce Greenwood
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LOCALS THIS WEEK
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Saturday, February 28
Take the Load Off Fundraiser @ Moose McGuire’s, 2 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 with Jansen on drums
 … and sometimes he invites friends to join them.
Check out the food … Al really likes the wraps!
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Jeff and Shane Tuesdays in the Irish Village
Heart & Crown, Byward Market, Clarence Street
Every other Tuesday
Every other Tuesday, you can find Jeff Rogers accompanied by Shane McEwan playing at The Heart and Crown Downtown.
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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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John Carroll
Chateau Lafayette (The Laff), 42 York Street
Wednesdays, 10 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: 
            February 26 – Drew Nelson
          March 5 – Dean Dupuis
          March 12 – Jed Rached
          March 19 – Al Wood
          March 26 – Jarhead & Jerome
          April 2 – Parker Estabrooks
          April 9 – Jeff Graham
          April 16 – Scott Amey
          April 23 – Mathieu Gagnon
          April 30 – Rob Alexander
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Jeff Rogers
RARE Restaurant & Bar, 570 Kanata Avenue
Thursdays, 6-10 pm
Between 6 pm and 10 pm every Thursday night, you can find Jeff playing at this wonderful fine dining establishment. Make requests, enjoy MARTINI NIGHT, and on Ottawa Senators game nights enjoy half price appetizers!
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Jeff Rogers
SALT, 345 Preston Street
Fridays, 9:30 pm
Friday Nights in a gorgeous Piano Lounge, find Jeff singing all kinds of music, playing a nice new grand piano, while drinking fabulous cocktails.
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The Allaire Show
            with John Allaire & special guests
Quinn’s Ale House, 1070 Bank Street
Last Saturday of the month, 3-5 pm
Songs and stories from around the world.
          February 28 – Tony D
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Jeff Rogers
RARE Restaurant & Bar, 570 Kanata Avenue
Saturdays, 6:30-10:30 pm
Come by on any Saturday night for some amazing food, a great atmosphere, super friendly staff, with some sweet soul music provided by Jeff Rogers.
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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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LOCAL HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Open Blues Jam
Avant-Garde Bar & Restaurant, 135½ Besserer Street
First Thursday of each month @ 8 pm
Hosted by River City Junction and Robert Farrell, this is an open jam.
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AREA HIGHLIGHTS ONCE A MONTH
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Mississippi Blues Society Jam    ***NO JAM IN FEBRUARY***
Thirsty Moose Pub & Eatery, Bridge Street, Carleton Place
First Tuesday of every month @ 8:30 pm
A message from the Mississippi Blues Society:
A reminder that there will be NO MBS JAM this month at the Thirsty Moose...due to smaller than normal winter crowds, it has been cancelled for the month of February only by the owner...hopefully we'll be up and running again in March.... We'll miss jamming with you all....but you know what they say..."absence makes the heart grow fonder".

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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Blues On Tues          ***NO Blues on Tues in January & February 2015***
The Granary Beizli, 3270 County Rd 10, Vankleek Hill ON
Third Tuesday of every month@ 7 pm; $10
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SPECIAL EVENTS COMING SOON
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The Last Waltz – a Musical Celebration of The Band LIVE
Shenkman Arts Centre, 245 Centrum Boulevard, Orleans
Wednesday, March 4 @ 8 pm

Maple Blues Award-winning producer and keyboardist Lance Anderson is bringing his critically-acclaimed show, 'The Last Waltz – a Musical Celebration of The Band Live LIVE’ to his hometown of Ottawa. This night is a celebration of the music of Canadian Hall of Famers, the Band.

In 1976, the Band performed their last concert with their friends Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Ronnie Hawkins, Van Morrison and others. Martin Scorsese’s award-winning film of the concert is considered the best concert film of the era.

Blues fans, although most of the show is 'blues based' at least 30% IS BLUES! The Hawks were a rockabilly band when they were with Ronnie Hawkins, but when they set out on their own as “Levon and the Hawks” they were strictly an R&B and Blues band. Ray Charles, Bobby Bland, Sam Cooke, Muddy Waters, Sonny Boy … were just some of the blue artists they covered at that time. They were good friends with Paul Butterfield and Muddy Waters and played on their recordings. 

Featured artists are blues all stars and multiple MBA and JUNO Award winners. Including The Weber Brothers, Jimmy Bowskill, Johnny Max and Ottawa's own Steve Mariner (Monkey Junk) with Jerome Levon Avis (Levon Helm's godson) on vocals and drums. 9 piece band, w 4 horns and TUBA, fiddle, mandolin, accordion.
It's the music of THE BAND played from the heart, by musicians who love it.
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The Last Waltz – a Musical Celebration of The Band LIVE
Regent Theatre, Picton ON
Friday, March 6

See details above.
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The 24th Street Wailers
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, March 7 @ 9:30 pm

Their latest release, “Wicked” has been nominated for this year’s JUNO award and the Wailers are back from their US tour (and making a new recording in Austin TX). They’ll be celebrating with a pre-JUNO nomination party at the Rainbow.
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JazzN.ca Gala Fundraiser
with The Steve Berndt Band
plus Tim Bedner & Elise Letourneau
& local high school student performers

Mississippi Golf Club, 341 Wilson Street (Appleton), RR#3 Almonte ON 

Saturday, March 7 @ 6:30 pm; $80

The Gala Fundraiser will raise money for the JazzN.ca Bursary to provide financial assistance to local high school students who wish to attend Carleton University’s 2015 Jazz Camp (CU Jazz Camp). The CU Jazz Camp currently costs just over $700 for tuition and in-residence accommodation. JazzN.ca’s goal is to raise enough money to provide financial assistance for three local students to attend the CU Jazz Camp.

All in all, then, the March 7th Gala Fundraiser, Dinner and Dance is not only expected to start a Spring tradition in re-enacting a community commitment to youth, but also to shake the winter doldrums with a fun-filled evening of dining and dancing! Information about the JazzN.ca Bursary Gala Fundraiser, as well as information about the JazzN.ca Bursary Program, is available on the website at www.jazzN.ca.
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Ross Neilsen
The Branch Restaurant, Kemptville ON
Saturday, March 7 @ 9 pm; $10

Atomic Rooster, 303 Bank Street
Sunday, March 8 @ 10 pm

Ross is on his annual winter solo tour.
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JW-Jones
JUNO Nomination Celebration
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Sunday, March 8 @ 3 pm; $15

JW-Jones will perform 2 sets starting at 3 pm with Jamie Holmes (drums) and Laura Greenberg (bass).  He is “So honoured to be nominated... Belmont Boulevard is up for Blues Album of the Year!” 

"The road that led JW-Jones to Nashville to record with Grammy-winning producer Tom Hambridge (Buddy Guy, George Thorogood, Susan Tedeschi) for the legendary Blind Pig Records was challenging, and the result is Belmont Boulevard — his most intimate and explosive album yet. Each song plays like a round in a heavyweight title fight and Jones emerges a winner, playing with fire hotter than those that burned him. These songs contain powerful, personal stories (“Cocaine Boy,” “Thank You”) that capture the edge and energy of his live shows, filled with snarling, screaming guitars (“Magic West Side Boogie”) and grit and groove (“What’s Inside Of You”). Belmont Boulevard is the story of a battle-tested artist not only absorbing the punches but fighting back, towering above his troubles, ready to hit the road to take on whatever comes next." —Josh Hathaway, BlindedBySound.com

COME CELEBRATE THE JUNO NOMINATION WITH US AT IRENE’S!
SUNDAY MARCH 8, 3 pm MATINEE SHOW (All Ages)
http://www.jw-jones.com
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Ottawa Grassroots Festival Launch
Pressed, 750 Gladstone Avenue
Wednesday, March 11 @ noon; free

Join us for great drinks, food, people and music as we celebrate the launch of the 4th Annual Ottawa Grassroots Festival!
This free event is open to everyone but especially a time to bring together all the volunteers, media and sponsors who make this festival possible.

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Keep The Cancer Treatments Coming Fundraiser
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Wednesday, March 11, 6-10 pm

A fund raising event for our dear friend and all around awesome person, Sue Breen. Come out to Irene's Pub and enjoy the sounds of the Drew Nelson Band and some very special guests. Bid on some beautiful auction items, enjoy the company of friends, have something nice to eat and help us raise some dough for drugs and moolah for meds.
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Philip Sayce
with special guest Steve Hill
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Thursday, March 12

Based out of LA, Sayce cut his teeth playing the Toronto Blues Scene. He is well known for his guitar playing. He toured with the Jeff Healey Band and later on with Melissa Etheridge. 

The big winner at this year’s Maple Blues Awards was Canadian guitarist and singer Steve Hill, who took home awards for entertainer, guitarist, electric act, and recording of the year for his Solo Recordings Vol. 2”, a follow-up to his “Solo Recordings Vol. 1” (winner of the best self-produced album honour at the 2013 International Blues Challenge) and the four-track EP that came in between, entitled, fittingly enough, Solo Recordings Vol. 1 ½”.

Despite a sound comparable to that of fellow Canadian trio MonkeyJunk and U.S. acts like Moreland & Arbuckle and Gary Clark, Jr., Hill is – as the titles of his latest recordings indicate – a true one-man show, tearing away on guitar and vocals as well as on drums, cymbals, and even sometimes harmonica.

“I’ve got a drum kit at my feet; we’ve modified all of my guitars with an extra pick-up that takes the sound of the two big strings that goes through an octaver and a bass amp so I got a bass sound at the same time that I’m playing the guitar,” notes Hill in his press materials. “I got a drum stick now so that I can play the right cymbal and I started playing harp about a year-and-a-half ago. It’s very challenging, but I love this sound. It’s very basic and very raw.”
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The Last Waltz – a Musical Celebration of The Band LIVE
Violet’s Venue, Barrie ON
Friday, March 13

See details below.
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Music By The Bay Live presents
The Last Waltz - The Music of The Band
St. Francis Centre Theatre, 78 Church Street South, Ajax, ON
Saturday, March 14 @ 8 pm; $55 advance, $65 at the door

This is an all-star line-up, featuring Chuck Jackson (lead singer of the Downchild Blues Band), Maple Blues Lifetime Achievement award winner Paul James, Jerome Levon Avis (Levon Helm’s godson) the multi-talented Jimmy Bowskill and other special guest singers. The performance will recreate the atmosphere of The Band’s final concert, which was captured in Martin Scorcese's award-winning concert film, The Last Waltz.  In this homage to The Last Waltz, Anderson’s special guests will perform the songs played and sung by these artists at the memorable 1976 concert.

Backed by a 9-piece band that includes Jerome Levon Avis on drums and vocals, Terry Blersh on guitar, Dennis Pinhorn (The Hawks) on bass, Rob Gusevs (Blood, Sweat and Tears) on organ and Anderson (Shakura S'Aida) on piano and vocals, this is a group of seasoned veterans who love the music. Anderson’s band also features a stellar four-piece horn section including David Dunlop (Boss Brass) on trumpet, Gord Meyers (Blood, Sweat and Tears) on trombone and tuba, Chris Murphy (Maple Blues Band) on Tenor sax, and Simon Wallis (Lighthouse) on Baritone sax.
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Paul Reddick
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Saturday, March 21; $12

Paul Reddick has long been a part of Canada’s rich roots music scene; he is one of the best harmonica players in the country …. His distinctive voice covers a wide emotional palette; always engaging; sometimes a shout, more often a conversationally vivid whisper. But it is Reddick’s songs – sometimes sweet, sometimes bitter, always thought-provoking and rarely sentimental – and the passionate way he delivers them that best illustrate what the influential British magazine Mojo described as his “wayward brilliance”.
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The Split
NAC 4th Stage, 53 Elgin Street
Wednesday, March 25 @ 7:30 pm; $20

Wednesday March 25th the Split brings their brand of soul music to the N.A.C.'s Fourth Stage.

Named “People to Watch in 2015,” by the Ottawa Citizen and a featured act on the CBC, The Split is a neo-soul band that grew out of Canada’s national capital duo the Brothers Chaffey. Their first EP released in 2014 will get you shaking at a higher velocity. Their show makes people actually want to dance. No — not dance. The Split makes you want to Doo Wop.

With a full album slated for release and a tour across the United States and Europe, 2015 promises to be a big year for this band. Members Matthew and Curtis Chaffey, Dan and Michael Grewal, Matt Aston and Terry Owen, burn it up on stage the way Bobby Womack did it. With soul dressed up to groove to a younger beat. Watch out for them this year. 

Tickets are available at the NAC box office, both Compact music locations, the Record Centre and the Ottawa Folklore Centre.
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MonkeyJunk
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Friday,March 27 @ 9:30 pm

Dance, Party, Celebrate, Break the Winter Blues with this Party Band of expert musicians! They normally play venues much bigger than the Wilno, but EVERYONE LOVE WILNO! So because of you, the great crowds, they are coming back again!

In their relatively short 6 year existence, Ottawa, Canada-based MonkeyJunk has cultivated a unique blend of SWAMP ROOTS ROCK. Their extensive touring has helped to develop a notable fan base across Canada, the US and Europe. Tony D plays guitar; Steve Marriner sings, plays baritone guitar and harmonica; Matt Sobb plays drums.
http://monkeyjunkband.com/
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Eddie Shaw and the Wolf Gang
Rainbow Bistro, 76 Murray Street
Saturday, March 28 @ 9:30 pm

Eddie Shaw is one of the reigning ‘kings’ of Chicago Blues. Eddie Shaw has played with the likes of such blues greats such as Elmore James, Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Jimmie Reed, Magic Sam, Lil Milton, Ike Turner, Freddie King, Willie Dixon, Hound Dog Taylor and the likes but is widely known for the time he spent with Chester Burnet … known the world over as Howlin’ Wolf. After Howlin Wolf’s death in 1976, Eddie continued in the tradition set before him and formed his own band, Eddie Shaw and the Wolfgang. Like many before him, his migration from Greenville, MS to Chicago serves as a testament to his musical roots and his ability as a singer, songwriter, producer, instrumentalist and bandleader.

Having performed with some of the greatest blues musicians that have ever lived, he is part of a generation of musicians that have helped to define and shape the “Chicago sound.” His hard honking blues busting saxophone work can be found on some of the most prolific blues recordings to date. He’s still a force to be reckoned with … a 2014 Blues Hall of Fame Inductee and 2014 Blues Music Award Winner for Best Instrumentalist/Horn.
If you're looking for authentic blues then you've come to the right place. 60 years of blowing it down all across the country and around the world.... Eddie Shaw is the real thing.  
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Danny Brooks
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Wednesday, April 8; $10

Danny Brook’s latest CD, “This World Is Not Your Friend” is his first stripped down recording with his duo partner Lil Miss Debi, who happens to be his wife. The result is a ‘down home’, ‘Front porch’ style recording that bring all the conflict/resolution of Brook’s storied past merging styles and genres together with a soulful blue thread unlike any previous recordings.
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Music By The Bay Live presents
Popa Chubby
St. Francis Centre Theatre, 78 Church Street South, Ajax, ON
Friday, April 10 @ 8 pm; $50 advance, $55 at the door

Larger than life blues figure Popa Chubby has a lot of reasons to feel lucky this year. 2014 marks the 25th anniversary of his emergence as a powerful force in the venerable New York blues scene with his very own band, and his own unique brand of hard hitting, face melting, blues rock n’ funky soul.
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The Paul James Band
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Saturday, April 18

One of the most exciting and energetic Toronto-based Canadian musicians ... past, present and future, Paul James is a Canadian cultural icon. A veteran entertainer, this player has seen all that this crazy music business has to offer. His talents as a guitarist, vocalist, band leader, stage acrobatic, and songwriter have allowed James to produce the music he loves for over three decades.

In 2012, Paul James received 'The Maple Blues (Lifetime Achievement Award for Blues Music in Canada), and at the 'Firehall Reunion' in London, Paul received the first, ' Jimmy Lewis Memorial, Lifetime in the Blues Award.

Paul James is a Juno winner (Canadian music industry award) in the Best Roots and Traditional Music category... not surprizing! And Paul has received two Toronto Music awards for Best Club Band and Best Blues Artist.

A rare Ottawa appearance … this is a ‘don’t miss’ show!
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Ottawa Grassroots Festival
Royal Canadian Legion, Montgomery Branch, 330 Kent Street
Thursday to Sunday, April 23-26

The Ottawa Grassroots Festival is a family-friendly gathering of folk music, dance and spoken word. Grassroots is a unique experience, accessible and indoors with FREE daytime activities designed to appeal to all ages, featuring workshops, sing-along, special kids’ activities, an instrument petting zoo, jam sessions, a Festival Choir, folk dancing, instrument building and much more.
Evening performances will be ticketed. Follow the latest line-up and performer news on the OGF website, Facebook and Twitter.
It’s called Grassroots because it is! This not-for-profit organization is run entirely by volunteers. 

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Lucas Haneman Express
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Friday, April 24

Lucas Haneman is an expressive and soulful guitarist with a sound that reaches beyond genres. A deeply passionate performer and improviser who has been playing since the age of 6, and a strong unique musical force wherever he is present, Haneman always places the listener’s enjoyment as his top priority.
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Wicked Grin
Irene’s Pub, 885 Bank Street
Saturday, April 25

‘No rest for the wicked’ as they say, and certainly no rest for Wicked Grin, they are not content to rest on their recent Best New Artist Maple Blues Award laurels. Leaving home in mid-February, they hit the road to tour Northern Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia and back through Northern Ontario again. They’ll probably be glad to be back home, and Ottawa blues fans will be glad to see them again at their first local gig.
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Buddy Guy
Centrepointe Theatre, 101 Centrepointe Drive
Monday & Tuesday, April 27-28@ 8 pm; tickets $86.75
One dollar has been included in the ticket fees at the request of the promoter. For every ticket sold, $1.00 will be donated to the Ottawa Citizen Literacy Foundation by Centrepointe Theatres on behalf of the promoter.

Buddy Guy is a genuine American treasure and one of the final surviving connections to an historic era in the country’s musical evolution? And still, as one glorious track on Rhythm & Blues puts it, he claims that “All That Makes Me Happy is the Blues.” Buddy recently received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award.
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BLUES ON THE RIDEAU
@ THE COVE INN, WESTPORT
2014/15 LINE-UP
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Blues On The Rideau is a Dinner & Show Fundraiser Series featuring some of Canada's best Blues artists performing in the cozy, intimate setting of The Cove Country Inn in Westport, Ontario - once a month from October through May (December excluded). 2014/15 is their 10th Anniversary season.

The Cove Inn is known for its friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, good food and drink, comfortable accommodation, excellent LIVE music and for its beautiful location on Rideau Lake in one of the most scenic small towns in eastern Ontario. Westport is just a 45 minute drive from Kingston, 1.5 hours from Ottawa.

Despite cost increases, the price for these nights remains at $60 per person (the same as the past 3 years). That includes a delicious full course buffet dinner, the show and dancing. Proceeds from all BOTR nights go to support different local Westport charities. The Series has raised over $50,000 for the community over the past 9 years and the goal is to hit another $5K this season.

Blues On The Rideau is produced by Choose The Blues Productions www.choosetheblues.ca in co-operation with The Cove Inn www.coveinn.com and is sponsored by 101.9 DAWG FM in Ottawa www.dawgfm.com, LAKE 88.1 in Perth/Rideau Lakes www.lake88.ca and DAN AYKROYD WINES www.danaykroydwines.com

 2014/15 LINE-UP FOR BLUES ON THE RIDEAU @ THE COVE INN

March 20 - PAUL REDDICK BAND   www.paulreddick.ca 
From Toronto - 7X Maple Blues Award winner and a Juno & American Blues Music Award nominee. A wonderfully talented singer/songwriter & harp player.
PROCEEDS TO RIDEAU WATERWAY LAND TRUST

April 17 - PAUL JAMES BAND   www.pauljamesband.com
From Toronto - A singer/songwriter/guitarist with a 40+ year career and a great veteran band who plays Blues, R&B and Rockabilly as good as it gets.
PROCEEDS TO EASTER SEALS CAMP MERRYWOOD

May 8 & 9   - DAVID ROTUNDO BAND   www.davidrotundo.com 
From Toronto - A superb singer/songwriter and harp player and an excellent performer. Arguably the most popular band to every play BOTR - his 7th visit!
PROCEEDS TO RIDEAU DISTRICT MUSEUM & WESTPORT IN BLOOM

More information including downloadable Schedule, links to band websites, sample songs and YOU TUBE videos can be found at www.bluesontherideau.ca

DINNER & SHOW $60
7 to 11 pm for all shows
ADVANCE RESERVATIONS are required
Well priced accommodation is available at The Cove and nearby B&Bs
Book early - most BOTR nights sell out in advance!
CALL 1-888-COVE-INN or (613) 273-3636
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VIRÉE BLUES BORÉALE – 21st edition
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Viree Blues Boreale – 21st edition
Le Petit Chicago, 50 promenade du Portage, Gatineau (Old Hull) QC
Tickets $20; Ottawa Blues Society with membership card - $15

February 25 – Harrison Kennedy
March 11 – Mike Goudreau
March 25 – Richard Carr
April 8 – Whiskey Legs
April 29 – Martin Hury Blues Combo
May 13 – Stephen Barry Band
May 27 – The Soul Clappers
June 10 – Bob Walsh

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KINGSTON BLUES
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Al Wood And The Woodsmen
            Opening – River City Junction
The Standeasy @ the RCHA Club, 193 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Saturday March 7 @ 8:30 pm; $10 Advance
613 384-8168 or by email – bruce@kingstonbluessociety.ca to reserve tickets

Al Wood is a multi-talented performer and songwriter with a deep reverence for the blues and traditionally-based roots music. His heart-on-the-sleeve vocals, harmonica-playing and guitar work create a powerful potion on stage and in the studio.
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Jerome Godboo
The Standeasy @ the RCHA Club, 193 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Friday, March 13 @ 8:30 pm; $15 Advance
613 384-8168 or by email – bruce@kingstonbluessociety.ca to reserve tickets

International Blues Challenge 2014 Harp Player of the Year
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Jack de Keyzer
The Standeasy @ the RCHA Club, 193 Ontario Street, Kingston ON
Friday, March 20 @ 8:30 pm; $20 Advance
613 384-8168 or by email – bruce@kingstonbluessociety.ca to reserve tickets

Always touring with an incredible band, Juno Award Winner Jack will have you rocking in your seat and swaying to his hot blues, soulful R&B and cool soul jazz. World class.
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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, March 1 – OBS DAWG’ON BLUES – Positive Blues with Blues Bud Brent
Next week, March 8 – OBS DAWG’ON BLUES – JUNO preview with Debrablues

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 2015. 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
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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 35 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 7th year.  It can be heard throughout the Ottawa Valley and streaming on the internet at valleyheritageradio.ca.
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Sunday Morning Soul
with Johnny Max
Check www.sundaymorningsoul.com for times … and you can hear the best in Brand New Blues, Roots, Soul and R&B, each and every Sunday morning.
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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’, 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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Sunday, March 8
JW-Jones JUNO Nom Celebration @ Irene’s, 3 pm
Friday, March 27
MonkeyJunk @ the Rainbow, 9:30 pm
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