In this issue…
• Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Social
• Gladstone Series: Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco
• Talent Search Submissions
• Guitar Workshop
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• Congrats to the JUNO Blues Nominees
• February Blues Festivals
• DAWG FM in Toronto
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Social

Gladstone Series: Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco

Talent Search Submissions

Attention emerging Canadian blues artists…The Toronto Blues Society Talent Search is back! Six finalists will be chosen to perform at the finals taking place at Nathan Phillips Square during City of Toronto’s Tasty Thursdays on Thursday August 16, noon-2pm. The finalists will compete for a grand prize which includes a showcase at the Blues Summit Six, a performance at the Southside Shuffle Festival, a show at The Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub, recording/mixing time at Revolution Recording , consultations with industry professionals and more!

Submissions are open now, and close on Friday June 15 at 5pm. You may submit through Sonicbids http://www.sonicbids.com/Opportunity/OpportunityView.aspx?opportunity_id=106751 or send a physical package to the TBS office (Talent Search Submission, 910 Queen Street West, Suite B04, Toronto, ON, M6J 1G6 – deadline to arrive at the office is June 15, not just postmarked) with a CD, one sheet, and a cheque for $15. Eligibility is limited to acts who are not on a major label and have not been chosen as a finalist in a past edition of the talent search.

Guitar Workshop

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Congrats to the JUNO Blues Nominees

February Blues Festivals

DAWG FM in Toronto

DAWG FM is applying for a radio license to broadcast in Toronto. As part of the process they will need letters of support written by the blues community in May. TBS will announce details in the coming weeks, but until then, check out DAWG online at http://www.dawgfm.com/

Become a TBS Member Today

Concert Notes

]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/where-its-at-feb-9-2012/feed/ 0 http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/where-its-at-february-2-2012/ http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/where-its-at-february-2-2012/#comments Fri, 10 Feb 2012 21:43:41 +0000 admin http://torontobluessociety.com/?p=3307

In this issue…
• Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Tonight
• Digital Dollars
• Guitar Workshop
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• February Blues Festivals
• International Blues Challenge
• DAWG FM in Toronto
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Tonight

The Toronto Blues Society presents the best in blues talent the first Thursday of each month at the recently renovated Melody Bar in The Gladstone Hotel. Performances are free to the public and begin at 9pm. Tonight’s show features a duo performance by Maple Blues Award winners Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick (pictured)!

Check back soon to find out about upcoming performances including Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco (March 1), Layla Zoe (April 5), and Morgan Davis (May 3) http://www.gladstonehotel.com

Digital Dollars

The second Digital Dollars seminar “Let’s Get Social” will take place at Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas St W, M6K 1T9) on Saturday February 11, 1pm-4pm. This session will feature Johan Hulqvist (Pinwheel Music, host), Jason Loomis (Ariel Publicity) and more. Check back in the coming weeks for more announcements on the guest speakers. The monthly seminar series features leading thinkers on the new digital music landscape. The FREE ADMISSION series is being presented by the Toronto Blues Society, Batuki Music, OCFF and Lula Lounge, and is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Please check back in the coming weeks for more details about this exciting series and mark your calendar for the third session on March 10. http://digitaldollars2012.com/

Guitar Workshop

Danny Marks will host the Guitar Workshop on Sat March 3 at Dominion on Queen (500 Queen St E). The featured guitarists are Donna Grantis, Kevin Breit, and Dylan Wickens (pictured)! The show will feature performances with an educational component and will run 1pm-4pm. $8 TBS members / $10 public at the door.

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Love Golf? Love Blues? Get the best of both worlds with the Mississippi Tourism’s International Golf & Blues Experience! Hosted by Chuck Jackson, upcoming trips take place April 15-21 in Biloxi, MS and Oct 7-13 in Tunica, MS. To learn more, find out about TBS group rates and to book your trip, go to http://www.golfandblues.net/?refid=torontobluessociety

February Blues Festivals

It may be cold outside, but February is host to three hot local blues festivals in Toronto, Aurora, and Barrie! Winterfolk X takes place at The Delta Chelsea Hotel in Toronto Feb 17-19 with featured acts to be announced soon http://www.abetterworld.ca. The inaugural Aurora Winter Blues Festival takes place at Theatre Aurora on Feb 25, and features Shawn Kellerman, Michael Pickett, and MonkeyJunk http://www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca. The Barrie February Blues Festival takes place at various venues in Barrie Feb 2-5, featuring Michael Pickett (pictured), Steve Strongman, Carlos del Junco, Carey Worrod, The Jack de Keyzer Band, The Paul James Band and more http://www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

International Blues Challenge

The First Great Canadian Polar Bear Blues Showcase will take place at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis tonight. The Toronto Blues Society is proud to support this initiative by the Montreal Blues Society and the Ottawa Blues Society. Hosted by Johnny Max, the showcase includes a performance from the Toronto Blues Society representative band The 24^th Street Wailers!

DAWG FM in Toronto

DAWG FM is applying for a radio license to broadcast in Toronto. As part of the process they will need letters of support written by the blues community in May. TBS will announce details in the coming weeks, but until then, check out DAWG online at http://www.dawgfm.com/

Become a TBS Member Today

Enjoy the benefits of discounted tickets to TBS events. Have the Maple Blues Magazine delivered right to your door each month. Meet like-minded blues lovers and help keep the blues alive in Toronto. The Toronto Blues Society offers several different membership options:

CHARTER MEMBERSHIP – $50/year - Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter, membership card, discounts to TBS Events, exclusive access to special TBS events, other discounts, and voting rights.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP – $70/year – Same privileges as Charter membership for a maximum of two adults and two children under 19.

INSTITUTIONAL or BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP – $125/year – Same privileges as Charter membership, plus more – Please inquire.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP – $35/year – Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter sent in fourth class mail

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP – $20/year – Same benefits as CHARTER membership (please include student card number)

Contact the TBS office today!

Concert Notes

Barrie February Blues Festival – Feb 2-5 | Julian Fauth (pictured) & Paul Reddick – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Feb 2 | Fathead – Hugh’s Room – Feb 4 | Ronnie Hayward CD Release – The Casbah – Feb 8 | Au Tour de la Guitare featuring Madagascar Slim, Philippe Lafreniere, Philippe Flahaut – Alliance Francaise de Toronto – Feb 10 | Sweet Honey in the Rock – Koerner Hall – Feb 10 | Jackie Richardson – Hugh’s Room – Feb 11 | Tribute to the Kings of Chess Records featuring Danny Marks, Dylan Wickens, Shrimp Daddy, Chris Antonik, Julian Fauth – Hugh’s Room – Feb 18 | Brandi Disterheft – Glenn Gould Studio – Feb 21 | Aurora Winter Blues Festival – Feb 25 | Al Lerman CD Release – Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub – Feb 25 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – Feb 26 | Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – March 1 | TBS Guitar Workshop – Dominion on Queen – March 3 | The Black Keys – Air Canada Centre – March 14 | John Hammond – Hugh’s Room – March 23/24 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – April 1 | Layla Zoe – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – April 5 | Buddy Guy – Massey Hall – April 13 | Colin James – Massey Hall – April 20 | Lee Oskar, David Rotundo, Enrico Crivellaro – Hugh’s Room – April 25 | Kellylee Evans – Glenn Gould Studio – April 27 | Morgan Davis – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – May 3 | Digging Roots CD Release – Hugh’s Room – May 25 | Waterfront Blues Festival - June 1-3 | George Thorogood & The Destroyers – Massey Hall – June 2 | Tedeschi Trucks Band – Toronto Jazz Festival – June 29 | Toronto Blues Society Talent Search Finals – Nathan Phillips Square – Aug 16 | 26^th Toronto Blues Society Women’s Blues Revue – Massey Hall – Nov 24

]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/where-its-at-february-2-2012/feed/ 0 http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/toronto-blues-society-talent-search-2012/ http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/02/toronto-blues-society-talent-search-2012/#comments Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:55:15 +0000 admin http://torontobluessociety.com/?p=3301 The Toronto Blues Society will host the finals for the annual Talent Search competition at Nathan Phillips Square on Thursday August 16, noon-2pm during City of Toronto’s “Tasty Thursdays” series.

Six finalists will be selected to perform before a panel of judges at Nathan Phillips Square where one artist will be selected to win a professional development package that includes a showcase opportunity at the Blues Summit Six in January 2013, a showcase opportunity at this year’s South Side Shuffle Festival, a performance at The Delta Chelsea Hotel Monarchs Pub, Recording/Mixing Time at Revolution Recording Studio, a photo shoot with Bill King, mentoring sessions with industry professionals, and more.

Submissions are now open to emerging local artists at http://www.sonicbids.com/Opportunity/OpportunityView.aspx?opportunity_id=106751&account_id=0 or by sending a CD, One Sheet, and a $15 cheque to the TBS office (910 Queen St W, B04, Toronto, ON, M6J 1G6)

The finalists will be chosen based on their “blues-worthiness”, though similar genres (such as R&B, soul, funk) are encouraged to submit. The event is judged by esteemed industry professionals in the blues community. In order to be eligible to submit, artists must not have been a finalist in a previous edition of the Talent Search, and must not be signed to a major label or have a major distribution deal in place.

Eddie C. Campbell Spider Eating Preacher (Delmark)

Tim Bastmeyer Tim Bastmeyer (independent)*

Hope Waits Introducing Hope Waits (Spann)

Brandon Isaak Bluesman’s Plea (independent)*

Mike Stevens & Matt Andersen Push Record: The Banff Sessions (Borealis)*

Paul Rodgers & Friends Live at Montreux (Eagle)*

Charlie Haden and Hank Jones Come Sunday (Universal)

David Vest Rock A While (Criminal)*

Toronzo Cannon Leaving Mood (Delmark)

Michael Jerome Browne The Road Is Dark (Borealis) *

Sharrie Williams Out of the Dark (Electro-Fi)

Sharon Lewis & Texas Fire The Real Deal (Delmark)

Wynton Marsalis & Eric Clapton Play the Blues: Live from Jazz at Lincoln Centre (Reprise/Rhino)

The Black Keys El Camino (Warner)

Joe Louis Walker Hellfire (Alligator)

Marcia Ball Roadside Attractions (Alligator)

The Pack A.D. Unpersons (Mint)*

Matt Andersen Coal Mining Blues (Busted Flat)*

The Trane Studio is also the new home of Noah Zacharin’s “Liberty Wednesdays.”After several years hosting a blues-friendly open-mic at the now defunct Liberty Bistro, Noah is taking it to the Trane.They will continue to call it “Liberty Wednesdays” in honour of their former locale. Every Wednesday starting February 1, 8 pm, no cover! The Trane is located at 964 Bathurst St., 1 1/2 blocks north of Bloor St. on the west side. www.tranestudio.com

WinterBlues: Winterfolk comes to the Delta –  the Delta Chelsea, that is.  From February 17 to 19, Winterfolk takes over Toronto’s biggest (and best) hotel with 4 performance areas and some great blues artists like David Essig, Jack de Keyzer, Rick Taylor, Al Lerman, Richard Henderson, Mr. Rick and more. The fest will feature the all-new Winterfolk All Star Blues Band w/ band leader Jack De Keyzer, Al Lerman of the award-winning blues outfit FATHEAD, Gary Kendall and Mike Fitzpatrick of the legendary Downchild, plus special guests who will be dropping by for some spontaneous blues jammin’.

Several workshops will also be taking place throughout the weekend including a highlighted event in the “Listening Room” called “An Intimate Evening Of Acoustic Blues.” This event will showcase a “Blues Guitar Workshop” hosted by John Jackson, w/ David Essig and Mr. Rick of Mr. Rick and the Biscuits. Artists will perform in a song circle, share their tunes, talk about their influences and demonstrate six-string techniques such as slide, fingerstyle and unique tunings. The second showcase will be a “Blues Songwriting Workshop” hosted by Gary Kendall w/ the award-winning and outstanding blues entertainer Danny Marks, and colourful campfire host “Colorblind” Brian Blain playing tunes and assembling a blues song on the spot. This is a ticketed event – $8 adv./ $10 door – and there are only 50 tickets available by visiting www.winterfolk.com.

Beyond Toronto, there are two more February blues festivals – in Aurora, and Barrie. The inaugural Aurora Winter Blues Festival takes place at Theatre Aurora on Feb 25, and features Shawn Kellerman, Michael Pickett, and 2012 Maple Blues Award winner MonkeyJunk (www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca). The Barrie February Blues Festival takes place at various venues in Barrie Feb 2-5, featuring Michael Pickett, Steve Strongman, Carlos del Junco, Carey Worrod, The Jack de Keyzer Band, The Paul James Band and more www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

Acoustic Blues Guitar Masterclass: Multi-award winner and 2x JUNO nominee Michael Pickett will be offering a Masterclass in Ragtime, Delta Blues, Texas Blues and Piedmont style guitar playing on Sunday, March 11 in Crystal Beach. He has studied and performed (electric and acoustic) blues for decades and loves to teach. His organic teaching method takes his students on a musical journey that reveals the very heart and soul of this beloved musical art form.. For more info call 289-876-9202 or email mem@michaelpickett.com

East Coast Blues Society News: Dale Schimpf of Halifax is the new Chair of the East Coast Blues Society. Mr. Schimpf replaces Kim O’Brian who was thanked for his contributions to the Society which has operated now for about ten years. Mr. Schimpf confirmed the new make-up of the board in a statement last week. “Gordie Thomas is Vice Chair now, Pam Patterson is Recording Secretary, Ruth Hanson is Treasurer. Other existing members include Chris Steeves and Tony Baak. New members include Tiffany Spencer, Darla Preeper who has rejoined, and Joe Murphy.” He extended thanks to “Fran Cumming and Ron Coolen and all outgoing board members for their hard work over the years.” The East Coast Blues Society is a not-for-profit organization, which was created in November of 2002. The mandate of the Society is to nurture and promote Blues Music throughout Atlantic Canada.

JUNO Awards: The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) announced today that tickets for CTV’s broadcast of The 2012 Juno Awards go on sale Friday, February 10 at 10:00am (EST). Returning to Ottawa for the first time since 2003, The 2012 Juno Awards, airing live on CTV the evening of Sunday, April 1 from Scotiabank Place, will feature a spectacular lineup of Canadian artists including 2012 Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductees Blue Rodeo and JUNO Award–winning artists City and Colour, deadmau5 and Feist. More acts to be revealed soon!  www.junoawards.ca

Folk Alliance in Memphis: The 24th annual International Folk Alliance Conference takes place February 22-26, 2012 in Memphis. This year’s conference will have a large Canadian contingent once again and will have some special events in anticipation of the 2013 conference which will take place in Toronto, February 20-24 at the Delta Chelsea Hotel. Many Canadian  blues artists have been selected for official showcases including Charlie A’Court (Dartmouth, NS), C.R. Avery (Bastard Township, ON), Ridley Bent (Winnipeg, MB), BettySoo and Doug Cox (Austin, TX), Blackie and the Rodeo Kings (Hamilton, ON), Jim Byrnes (Vancouver, BC), Kat Danser (Edmonton, AB), Steve Dawson (Vancouver, BC) and The Sojourners (Vancouver, BC) .

This year’s Folk Alliance Awards program will honour the 2012 recipients of the Elaine Weissman Lifetime Achievement Awards:  Harry Belafonte, Robert Johnson, and the Highlander Center.

Other events of interest to blues fans: a special tribute to the late Memphis area producer Jim Dickinson will feature appearances by Jim’s sons Luther and Cody (North Mississippi All-Stars) and some very special guests. The keynote speaker will be legendary music industry icon Bob Lefsetz and the FA will celebrate the centennials for folk music legends Woody Guthrie, Robert Johnson, and Bill Monroe as well as many special concerts, panels, presentations, and workshops.

They will be broadcasting 24/7 live on the internet on www.dittytv.com with official and unofficial showcase artists, special music clinics, executive roundtables, films, videos, classic concerts, and much more.  Keep an eye on dittytv.com and folk.org for updates and more information.

Cab Calloway on PBS: Cab Calloway: Sketches premieres nationally Monday, February 27 on PBS. “Hi de hi de hi de ho!” Charismatic music and dance pioneer Cab Calloway (12-25-1907 – 11-18-94) is an exceptional figure in the history of jazz and blues. As a singer, dancer and bandleader, he charmed audiences around the world with his boundless energy, bravado and elegant showmanship. Calloway was also an ambassador for his race, leading one of the most popular African American big bands during the Harlem Renaissance and jazz and swing eras of the 1930s-40s. American Masters celebrates “The Hi De Ho Man’s” career and legacy during Black History Month with the new documentary Cab Calloway:

Emmy-winning filmmaker Gail Levin explores Cab Calloway’s musical beginnings and milestones in the context of the Harlem Renaissance and segregationist America using archival footage, animation based on caricatures by famed illustrator Steve Brodner and French cartoonist Cabu, and interviews. The animated Cab dances alongside Matthew Rushing, choreographer/principal dancer of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (Uptown), who explains how modern Calloway’s movements were and his impact on hip-hop. Additional interviewees includegrandson and Cab Calloway Orchestra bandleader Chris “Calloway” Brooks; horn player Gerald Wilson; and The Blues Brothers (1980) director John Landis and band members Steve Cropper, Lou Marini and Donald “Duck” Dunn. The film introduced Cab and his music to a new generation, when he acted and performed as The Blues Brothers’s mentor, Curtis.

“I am especially delighted to bring Cab Calloway to younger audiences — and he does become quite alive through the inventive animation in this film,” says Susan Lacy, American Masters series creator and executive producer. The film will stream after the PBS premiere on the American Masters website: http://www.pbs.org/americanmasters

Correction: Apologies to Paul Corby for reporting the demise of his radio show, Corby’s Orbit.  The show, formerly on CKLN,  is alive and well and heard over the internet every Friday from 5-7 at www.radioregent.com

Al Lerman - Crowe River Blues (Self)

At the Awards show, Matt Andersen was being accompanied to the podium by one of those wonderful stings by the band – this time Al Lerman was playing guitar & harp. Matt quipped ‘we got to take some instruments away from Al’. That delightful compliment is a good way to introduce Al’s new solo album on which he gets to play all his instruments plus he gets to sing, something that with FATHEAD is confined to harmony vocals. We’re used to seeing Al play harp or tenor sax but the band doesn’t play all the time. Increasing opportunities for solo shows and requests for CDs to purchase led eventually to this delightful disc. The cover shows Al standing beside the Crowe River, in the country, where he’s lived for a couple of years now, and country life permeates the program. He does have some assistance in having Alec Fraser on bass, Lance Anderson on keys and Bucky Berger on drums in a program of originals and covers that gives us a rather different sound than what you’d expect from listening to FATHEAD. His choice of covers holds a few surprises: “Suitcase Blues” is not the hit by Sippie Wallace, but by the legendary Hollywood Fats and the full band does a nice job. “Chugging The Blues” has Al layering multiple harps, the various lines meshing to achieve quite an unusual effect – a tour de force. “Gypsy Feet” is a rather attractive song about a wandering musician that must be a highlight of his solo acoustic shows, augmented here by acoustic bass and a spot-on harmony vocal from Fraser. Not for the only time here, there’s the distinct influence of The Band. A solo version of Snooky Pryor’s “Judgement Day” is up next. A fellow Electro-Fi recording artist, the late Snooky Pryor isn’t acknowledged nearly often enough – this is a fine tribute. “Nobody But Myself To Blame” is perhaps the closest he comes to a FATHEAD song, with his tenor sax appearing for the only time but the players take this R&B number to a different place. How about “Blues So Bad I Could Write A Country Song” for a title – he does just that with lovely piano from Lance. “You’re The One” is a lively solo, Piedmont style romp for guitar & harp. “Harmonica Romp” uses the “Iko Iko” tune for a first rate showcase. “I’m Gone” is another ballad with a lovely tune – a specialty of his, it seems. The band returns to help on “Indifference”, a clever song about a common problem. “She Calls Me River” invokes The Band even more strongly. Lerman seems to have found a voice that is reflected these songs. He writes for FATHEAD as well but it’s hard to imagine him as the singer of those urban songs. His more rural-centred material here is a better match. The next time you see that Al is playing a solo show, be sure to take it in and be sure to get one of the these, you won’t be disappointed. Al & the band will re-assemble with Denis Keldie sitting in for Lance at Monarch’s Pub in the Delta Chelsea Hotel on Saturday, February 25^th. See you there.

Donna Grantis - Suites (Diamond Gem)

Donna Grantis is the guitarist and co-songwriter for Shakura S’Aida and the Musical Director for the Women’s Blues Revue Band. She plays lead guitar on Saidah Baba Talibah’s recent album, (S)Cream. She is also a serious student of the electric guitar and the proof is here: her debut all-instrumental album, available as a CD or as a download. It’s organized into two parts: Elektra Suite and Starla Suite. Each is divided into five distinct sections. As she describes it on her web site: it took 13 months to complete, using 4 studios, 7 guitars, 30+ guitar pedals and one blown amplifier. Roger Travassos plays drums and Steve Zsirai, bass but they don’t seem to have any overdubbed parts. The layering is all Grantis. “Elektra”, from the first Suite is available as a free download for you to check out and it’s intended as a tribute to Jimmy Page. Jeff Beck’s work also comes to mind while listening but Ms. Grantis is among equals on guitar, production and creativity here. “My Purple Heart” from the second suite is a highlight as well. The web site is www.donnagrantis.com.

Lou Pomanti - Welcome To The Boogaloo Lounge (Self)

Lou Pomanti is one of the behind-the-scenes people that make events happen. Since being invited by David Clayton-Thomas to join Blood, Sweat & Tears in 1980, he’s been a Gemini award-winning TV show arranger, film scorer and producer. There’s much more in the bio at his web site. He was out in public for a while, however, as the B3 player for The Dexters, who had a regular gig at the Orbit Room. He’s found time to record a tribute to those days, putting the band back together for Welcome To The Boogaloo Lounge, his pet name for the Room. His ‘day job’ has had an impact here, though: he’s developed a concept album, using similar chord structures throughout. Bernie LaBarge returns on guitar, Peter Cardinali on bass and Larnell Lewis took Mike Sloski’s place on drums. Art Avalos adds percussion and Jake Langley sits in on guitar for three songs. Pomanti adds synths and programming to his B3 and piano for a fully contemporary edge but the full sound is still primarily organ-based. After a couple of instrumentals that set the scene, “The Boogaloo Lounge” and “In Orbit”, LaBarge takes a vocal on “Give It Up”. Pomanti then inserts a lovely ballad, “Loving You”, a duet sung by Dione Taylor & Duane Blackburn. After these, it’s back to the hot, funky organ band nights at the Orbit, updated, of course, with great variety and played wonderfully. The web site is www.loupomanti.com.

Nigel Mack - Devil’s Secrets (Blues Attack)

Nigel Mack (Mackenzie) has been living in Chicago since 2003 but still maintains his Vancouver connections. His latest CD was recorded in both locations and he bills it as a cross section of Americana. All the songs here are by Nigel or co-written by him and show a remarkable facility across the styles. He’s a strong singer and the guitar is his primary instrument, although he plays harmonica as well. “King For A Day” is a fine, catchy opener – a horn-led romp with a great guitar solo. “Devil’s Secret” has him switching to a dirty slide guitar over a solid organ – the Devil knows Nigel will always yield to temptation. This one’s a keeper. The horns are back for the soul ballad “Here’s To You” – some fine BB-styled guitar here. He can do some Zydeco too and invited CJ Chenier along – they tear up “Come Back Baby”. “Dead Presidents (Don’t Tell No Tales)” was done in Vancouver with James Rogers on guitar & David Webb on keys. Playing harp, Mack imparts some advice about the perils of leaving a paper trail, he was using a credit card and his wife saw the bill. “Chicago Bound” is not the Jimmy Rogers song, but a very good original composition recorded live at a club in Chicago, with Mack solo on National Steel. “Meet Her Funk” shows he can handle that too, another Vancouver recording. “Mid Life Crisis” is a bit of rock ‘n’ roll, another keeper. This album won the Windy City Blues Society’s award for best self-produced CD so he can add producer to his resume as well. His web site is www.nigelmack.com and maybe he can come and visit – Chicago is a little closer than Vancouver.

Steve Pineo’s Blue Monday Trio - Volume One, Hardwired for the Blues (Stamp)

Toronto-born, Calgary residing Steve Pineo’s reputation as a songwriter preceded him to this column, a song of his, “Canadian Man”, is on Naturally by Harpdog Brown & Graham Guest, who described his songwriting in glowing terms. Not exclusively a blues artist, he does consider the blues as his foundation. He recently began a “Blue Monday” evening at Mikey’s Juke Joint in Calgary and that was so much fun, he’s gone back through his songs for a live album. In the event, only some of the disc is live at the club but I think you’ll find this to an eminently worthwhile acquisition. Many people already have, it’s doing very well on the current roots music radio charts. “Outside Looking In” concerns a man whose 15 minutes of fame are up. “Hardwired For The Blues” is an excellent song, written in the style of Paul Butterfield’s Better Days Band, for whom Amos Garrett played lead guitar. I’m sure they would have been pleased to record it. “Just The Way I Like It” is described in the booklet as ‘in the style of Dinah Washington & Brook Benton – lots of smouldering sexual energy’. “Hole In The Head” takes as its template the songs of Willie Dixon, it being a list of reasons why he shouldn’t love her, but he does. “Uneasy Rider” takes on the easy rider of blues parlance. Perhaps he shouldn’t have given away his songwriting secrets in the notes but they show an expert at work. He’s a very good singer and an even better guitarist. Kelly Kruse plays drums and Kit Johnson plays bass in the Blue Monday Trio and the forthcoming Volume Two will concentrate on other styles of music. I think Mikey’s Juke Joint should definitely be on your agenda for your next trip to Calgary.

Joe Louis Walker - Hellfire (Alligator/Fontana North/Universal)

Walker is no stranger to this column as many of his 23 previous albums have been reviewed here. And he continues to impress: New label Alligator has teamed him up with Tom Hambridge, who piloted the last two Buddy Guy discs to the stratosphere. That raises the bar mightily and a quick comment would be to say that this disc is superb. The songs here are almost all original, with Walker contributing seven and Hambridge helping out on two more and Hambridge contributing two of his own. Hank Snow’s “Moving On” closes out the program. “Hellfire” certainly is an apt title too: not only is it an autobiographical slice of his hellfire life – electric blues at it’s finest. He sings that hellfire is his church. Walker’s vocals have always been among the best in contemporary blues and his imaginative, Mike Bloomfield-influenced guitar playing has certainly kept him in the front ranks of players. The band suits him just fine with Hambridge on drums & Reese Wynans on keys. Together they maintain a relentless pace, an energy level and passion that should make Hellfire a major contender for next year’s awards lists. “I Won’t Do That” begins slowly, with Walker protesting that he won’t leave her despite evidence to the contrary. It builds in a mighty crescendo that I sure hope convinces her. “Ride All Night” seems like an attempt by Walker & Hambridge to outdo the Rolling Stones on their own turf. They do a good job incorporating “Brown Sugar” riffs, but one does wonder why. “I’m On To You”, about his two-timing woman, is the most traditional sounding blues here, with Walker on harp sounding a bit like Mick Jagger. “Soldier For Jesus” is originally from his New Direction CD from 2004 but this is a far more fully realized performance – more evidence of his hellfire, gospel/blues life. “Too Drunk To Drive Drunk” rocks out, a timely message well presented. The bartender has taken his keys but he’s not so drunk that he doesn’t understand why. “Black Girls” maintains that you have to use black girls as singers to put the soul in rock ‘n’ roll – perhaps another dig at the Stones. “I’m Movin’ On” is very well done, with the band chugging away and Walker providing a few re-writes to keep everything in a blues vein, and there are excellent solos. For all his accomplishments, Walker is not yet the headliner that Buddy Guy is. This album should change that.

-John Valenteyn

jvalenteyn8724@rogers.com

In this issue…
• Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – February 2
• International Blues Challenge
• Digital Dollars
• Guitar Workshop
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• February Blues Festivals
• DAWG FM in Toronto
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – February 2

The Toronto Blues Society presents the best in blues talent the first Thursday of each month at the recently renovated Melody Bar in The Gladstone Hotel. Performances are free to the public and begin at 9pm. The next show in the series is on February 2, featuring a duo performance by Julian Fauth (pictured) & Paul Reddick!

Check back soon to find out about upcoming performances including Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco (March 1), Layla Zoe (April 5), and Morgan Davis (May 3) http://www.gladstonehotel.com

International Blues Challenge

The First Great Canadian Polar Bear Blues Showcase will take place at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. The Toronto Blues Society is proud to support this initiative by the Montreal Blues Society and the Ottawa Blues Society. Hosted by Johnny Max, the showcase includes a performance from the Toronto Blues Society representative band The 24^th Street Wailers!

Digital Dollars

The second Digital Dollars seminar “Let’s Get Social” will take place at Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas St W, M6K 1T9) on Saturday February 11, 1pm-4pm. This session will feature Johan Hulqvist (Pinwheel Music, host), Jason Loomis (Ariel Publicity CyberPR) and more. Check back in the coming weeks for more announcements on the guest speakers. The monthly seminar series features leading thinkers on the new digital music landscape. The FREE ADMISSION series is being presented by the Toronto Blues Society, Batuki Music, OCFF and Lula Lounge, and is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Please check back in the coming weeks for more details about this exciting series and mark your calendar for the third session on March 10. http://digitaldollars2012.com/

Guitar Workshop

Danny Marks will host the Guitar Workshop on Sat March 3 at Dominion on Queen (500 Queen St E). Featured guitarists include Donna Grantis, Kevin Breit (pictured) and more to be announced in the coming weeks!

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Love Golf? Love Blues? Get the best of both worlds with the Mississippi Tourism’s International Golf & Blues Experience! Hosted by Chuck Jackson, upcoming trips take place April 15-21 in Biloxi, MS and Oct 7-13 in Tunica, MS. To learn more, find out about TBS group rates and to book your trip, go to http://www.golfandblues.net/?refid=torontobluessociety

February Blues Festivals

It may be cold outside, but February is host to three hot local blues festivals in Toronto, Aurora, and Barrie! Winterfolk X takes place at The Delta Chelsea Hotel in Toronto Feb 17-19 with featured acts to be announced soon http://www.abetterworld.ca. The inaugural Aurora Winter Blues Festival takes place at Theatre Aurora on Feb 25, and features Shawn Kellerman, Michael Pickett, and MonkeyJunk (pictured) http://www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca. The Barrie February Blues Festival takes place at various venues in Barrie Feb 2-5, featuring Michael Pickett, Steve Strongman, Carlos del Junco, Carey Worrod, The Jack de Keyzer Band, The Paul James Band and more http://www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

DAWG FM in Toronto

DAWG FM is applying for a radio license to broadcast in Toronto. As part of the process they will need letters of support written by the blues community in May. TBS will announce details in the coming weeks, but until then, check out DAWG online at http://www.dawgfm.com/

Become a TBS Member Today

Enjoy the benefits of discounted tickets to TBS events. Have the Maple Blues Magazine delivered right to your door each month. Meet like-minded blues lovers and help keep the blues alive in Toronto. The Toronto Blues Society offers several different membership options:

CHARTER MEMBERSHIP – $50/year - Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter, membership card, discounts to TBS Events, exclusive access to special TBS events, other discounts, and voting rights.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP – $70/year – Same privileges as Charter membership for a maximum of two adults and two children under 19.

INSTITUTIONAL or BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP – $125/year – Same privileges as Charter membership, plus more – Please inquire.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP – $35/year – Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter sent in fourth class mail

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP – $20/year – Same benefits as CHARTER membership (please include student card number)

Contact the TBS office today!

Concert Notes

Mavis Staples (pictured) – Koerner Hall – Jan 29 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series w/Diana Braithwaite, Joe Sealy, Paul Novotny, Jacob Moon – Hugh’s Room – Jan 29 | Barrie February Blues Festival – Feb 2-5 | Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Feb 2 | Fathead – Hugh’s Room – Feb 4 | Au Tour de la Guitare featuring Madagascar Slim, Philippe Lafreniere, Philippe Flahaut – Alliance Francaise de Toronto – Feb 10 | Sweet Honey in the Rock – Koerner Hall – Feb 10 | Jackie Richardson – Hugh’s Room – Feb 11 | Tribute to the Kings of Chess Records featuring Danny Marks, Dylan Wickens, Shrimp Daddy, Chris Antonik, Julian Fauth – Hugh’s Room – Feb 18 | Brandi Disterheft – Glenn Gould Studio – Feb 21 | Aurora Winter Blues Festival – Feb 25 | Al Lerman CD Release – Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub – Feb 25 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – Feb 26 | Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – March 1 | TBS Guitar Workshop – Dominion on Queen – March 3 | The Black Keys – Air Canada Centre – March 14 | John Hammond – Hugh’s Room – March 23/24 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – April 1 | Layla Zoe – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – April 5 | Buddy Guy – Massey Hall – April 13 | Colin James – Massey Hall – April 20 | Lee Oskar, David Rotundo, Enrico Crivellaro – Hugh’s Room – April 25 | Kellylee Evans – Glenn Gould Studio – April 27 | Morgan Davis – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – May 3 | Digging Roots CD Release – Hugh’s Room – May 25 | George Thorogood & The Destroyers – Massey Hall – June 2 | Tedeschi Trucks Band - Toronto Jazz Festival – June 29 | Toronto Blues Society Talent Search Finals – Nathan Phillips Square – Aug 16 | 26^th Toronto Blues Society Women’s Blues Revue – Massey Hall – Nov 24

  ]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/3262/feed/ 0 http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-29-2012/ http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-29-2012/#comments Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:23:15 +0000 admin http://torontobluessociety.com/?p=3259

In this issue…
• IBC Fundraiser – This Saturday Night!
• Maple Blues Awards – Congrats to the Winners!
• Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – February 2
• Digital Dollars
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• Guitar Workshop
• February Blues Festivals
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

IBC Fundraiser – This Saturday Night!

The 24th Street Wailers will be representing the Toronto Blues Society at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis Feb 2-5! They will be performing at both the International and Polar Bear showcases. Help them offset their expenses to Memphis by attending a fundraiser at The Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub on Saturday January 21 featuring a live performance by the band! Doors at 7:30pm, Show at 8pm, $10.

Maple Blues Awards – Congrats to the Winners!

For a full list of winners, click here

The reviews are in from Monday night’s 15th Annual Maple Blues Awards! Check out some articles about the awards show:

http://www.rootsmusic.ca/

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/arts/music/matt-andersen-a-triple-winner-at-blues-awards

http://arts.nationalpost.com/2011/01/18/matt-anderson-wins-big-at-maple-blues-awards/

http://thechronicleherald.ca/artslife/53247-matt-andersen-triple-winner-blues-awards

http://www.montrealgazette.com/entertainment/MonkeyJunk+still+blues+Ottawa+band+Matt+Andersen

http://www.cbc.ca/nb/mt/east-coast-music/2012/01/matt-andersen-big-winner-at-maple-blues-awards.html

http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/story/2012/01/16/maple-blues-awards

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/MonkeyJunk+triple+threat+Maple+Blues+awards

http://www.therecord.com/whatson/artsentertainment/article/656186–strongman-andersen-win

http://www.kamloopsthisweek.com/entertainment/137576308

http://www.toronto.com/article/710322

Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – February 2

The Toronto Blues Society presents the best in blues talent the first Thursday of each month at the recently renovated Melody Bar in The Gladstone Hotel. Performances are free to the public and begin at 9pm. The next show in the series is on February 2, featuring a duo performance by Julian Fauth (pictured) & Paul Reddick!

Check back soon to find out about upcoming performances including Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco (March 1), Layla Zoe (April 5), and Morgan Davis (May 3) http://www.gladstonehotel.com

Digital Dollars

The second Digital Dollars seminar “Let’s Get Social” will take place at Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas St W, M6K 1T9) on Saturday February 11, 1pm-4pm. Check back in the coming weeks for announcements on the guest speakers. The monthly seminar series features leading thinkers on the new digital music landscape. The FREE ADMISSION series is being presented by the Toronto Blues Society, Batuki Music, OCFF and Lula Lounge, and is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Please check back in the coming weeks for more details about this exciting series and mark your calendar for the third session on March 10. http://digitaldollars2012.com/

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Love Golf? Love Blues? Get the best of both worlds with the Mississippi Tourism’s International Golf & Blues Experience! Hosted by Chuck Jackson, upcoming trips take place April 15-21 in Biloxi, MS and Oct 7-13 in Tunica, MS. To learn more, find out about TBS group rates and to book your trip, go to http://www.golfandblues.net/?refid=torontobluessociety

Guitar Workshop

Danny Marks (pictured) will host the Guitar Workshop on Sat March 3 at Dominion on Queen (500 Queen St E), 1pm-4pm. Featured guitarists include Donna Grantis and more will be announced in the coming weeks!

February Blues Festivals

It may be cold outside, but February is host to three hot local blues festivals in Toronto, Aurora, and Barrie! Winterfolk X takes place at various venues in Toronto Feb 17-19 with featured acts to be announced soon http://www.abetterworld.ca. The inaugural Aurora Winter Blues Festival takes place at Theatre Aurora on Feb 25, and features Shawn Kellerman, Michael Pickett, and 2012 Maple Blues Award winner MonkeyJunk (pictured) http://www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca. The Barrie February Blues Festival takes place at various venues in Barrie Feb 2-5, featuring Michael Pickett, Steve Strongman, Carlos del Junco, Carey Worrod, The Jack de Keyzer Band, The Paul James Band and more http://www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

Become a TBS Member Today

Enjoy the benefits of discounted tickets to TBS events. Have the Maple Blues Magazine delivered right to your door each month. Meet like-minded blues lovers and help keep the blues alive in Toronto. The Toronto Blues Society offers several different membership options:

CHARTER MEMBERSHIP – $50/year - Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter, membership card, discounts to TBS Events, exclusive access to special TBS events, other discounts, and voting rights.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP – $70/year – Same privileges as Charter membership for a maximum of two adults and two children under 19.

INSTITUTIONAL or BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP – $125/year – Same privileges as Charter membership, plus more – Please inquire.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP – $35/year – Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter sent in fourth class mail

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP – $20/year – Same benefits as CHARTER membership (please include student card number)

Contact the TBS office today!

Concert Notes

The 24^th Street Wailers IBC Fundraiser (pictured) – Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub – Jan 21 | JJ Grey & Mofro w/MonkeyJunk – Horseshoe Tavern – Jan 22 | Mavis Staples – Brock University Centre for the Arts – Jan 25 | Mavis Staples – Koerner Hall – Jan 29 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series w/Diana Braithwaite, Joe Sealy, Paul Novotny, Jacob Moon – Hugh’s Room – Jan 29 | Barrie February Blues Festival – Feb 2-5 | Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Feb 2 | Fathead – Hugh’s Room – Feb 4 | Au Tour de la Guitare featuring Madagascar Slim, Philippe Lafreniere, Philippe Flahaut – Alliance Francaise de Toronto – Feb 10 | Sweet Honey in the Rock – Koerner Hall – Feb 10 | Jackie Richardson – Hugh’s Room – Feb 11 | Tribute to the Kings of Chess Records featuring Danny Marks, Dylan Wickens, Shrimp Daddy, Chris Antonik, Julian Fauth – Hugh’s Room – Feb 18 | Brandi Disterheft – Glenn Gould Studio – Feb 21 | Aurora Winter Blues Festival – Feb 25 | Al Lerman CD Release – Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub – Feb 25 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – Feb 26 | Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – March 1 | TBS Guitar Workshop – Dominion on Queen – March 3 | The Black Keys – Air Canada Centre – March 14 | John Hammond – Hugh’s Room – March 23/24 | Ken Whiteley Gospel Series – Hugh’s Room – April 1 | Layla Zoe – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – April 5 | Buddy Guy – Massey Hall – April 13 | Colin James – Massey Hall – April 20 | Lee Oskar, David Rotundo, Enrico Crivellaro – Hugh’s Room – April 25 | Kellylee Evans – Glenn Gould Studio – April 27 | Morgan Davis – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – May 3 | Digging Roots CD Release – Hugh’s Room – May 25 | George Thorogood & The Destroyers – Massey Hall – June 2

]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-29-2012/feed/ 0 http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-12-2012/ http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-12-2012/#comments Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:21:37 +0000 admin http://torontobluessociety.com/?p=3257

In this issue…
• Maple Blues Awards – Monday Night
• Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Physical – This Saturday!
• 25th Annual Women’s Blues Revue on CBC
• IBC Fundraiser
• Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Feb 2
• Guitar Workshop
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

Maple Blues Awards – Monday Night

Have you got your tickets? Purchase tickets by visiting http://performance.rcmusic.ca/event/toronto-blues-society-maple-blues-awards or by calling 416-408-0208. If you are a Charter member in good standing, please contact the TBS office for preferred discounted seats before Friday at 5pm. After this time, these tickets will only be accessible in emergency situations.
In addition to this year’s hosts Treasa Levasseur and Shakura S’Aida, the performers at the 15^th annual Maple Blues Awards are Rita Chiarelli, Fathead, Bill Johnson, MonkeyJunk, and Joe Murphy all backed by The Maple Blues Band! Stick around after the show for a high energy after party with The 24^th Street Wailers in the lobby!

The national awards show takes place at beautiful Koerner Hall on January 16^th, 2012.

The Maple Blues Band features musical director Gary Kendall (Bass), Tom Bona (Drums), Michael Fonfara (Keys), Teddy Leonard (Guitar), Chris Whiteley (Trumpet, Harmonica, Guitar), Al Lerman (Harmonica, Tenor Sax), Pat Carey (Tenor Sax), and Chris Murphy (Baritone Sax).

Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Physical – This Saturday!

The first Digital Dollars seminar “Let’s Get Physical” will take place at Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas St W, M6K 1T9) on January 14, 1pm-4pm. The featured speakers are Johan Hulqvist (Pinwheel Music, host), Lloyd Nishimura (Outside Distribution), Jack Schuller (Festival Record Distribution), Shelley Stein-Sacks (Music Think Tank), and David Travers-Smith (producer). The monthly seminar series features leading thinkers on the new digital music landscape. The FREE ADMISSION series is being presented by the Toronto Blues Society, Batuki Music, OCFF and Lula Lounge, and is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Please check back in the coming weeks for more details about this exciting series and mark your calendar for the second session on Sat Feb 11. http://digitaldollars2012.com/

25th Annual Women’s Blues Revue on CBC

Highlights from the 25^th Annual Toronto Blues Society Women’s Blues Revue at Massey Hall are streaming right now on CBC Radio 2’s Concerts on Demand: http://www.cbc.ca/radio2/cod/concerts/20111126women! Relive this historic night featuring performances by Kat Danser, Ada Lee, Emma-Lee, Treasa Levasseur, Shakura S’Aida, and Suzie Vinnick! Tune in for the radio broadcasts – January 12 at 7pm on CBC Radio 2 (94.1 FM), and January 13 at 2pm on CBC Radio 1 (99.1 FM).

IBC Fundraiser

The 24th Street Wailers (pictured) will be representing the Toronto Blues Society at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis Feb 2-5! They will be performing at both the International and Polar Bear showcases. Help them offset their expenses to Memphis by attending a fundraiser at The Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub on Saturday January 21 featuring a live performance by the band! Doors at 7:30pm, Show at 8pm, $10.

Gladstone Series: Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Feb 2

The Toronto Blues Society presents the best in blues talent the first Thursday of each month at the recently renovated Melody Bar in The Gladstone Hotel. Performances are free to the public and begin at 9pm. The next show in the series is on February 2, and features a performance by Julian Fauth (pictured) & Paul Reddick!

Check back soon to find out about upcoming performances including Rick Taylor & Carlos del Junco (March 3), Layla Zoe (April 5), and Morgan Davis (May 3) http://www.gladstonehotel.com

Guitar Workshop

Danny Marks will host the Guitar Workshop on Sat March 3 at Dominion on Queen (500 Queen St E). Featured guitarists include Donna Grantis (pictured) and more to be announced in the coming weeks!

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Love Golf? Love Blues? Get the best of both worlds with the Mississippi Tourism’s International Golf & Blues Experience! Hosted by Chuck Jackson, upcoming trips take place April 15-21 in Biloxi, MS and Oct 7-13 in Tunica, MS. To learn more, find out about TBS group rates and to book your trip, go to http://www.golfandblues.net/?refid=torontobluessociety

Become a TBS Member Today

Enjoy the benefits of discounted tickets to TBS events. Have the Maple Blues Magazine delivered right to your door each month. Meet like-minded blues lovers and help keep the blues alive in Toronto. The Toronto Blues Society offers several different membership options:

CHARTER MEMBERSHIP – $50/year - Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter, membership card, discounts to TBS Events, exclusive access to special TBS events, other discounts, and voting rights.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP – $70/year – Same privileges as Charter membership for a maximum of two adults and two children under 19.

INSTITUTIONAL or BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP – $125/year – Same privileges as Charter membership, plus more – Please inquire.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP – $35/year – Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter sent in fourth class mail

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP – $20/year – Same benefits as CHARTER membership (please include student card number)

Contact the TBS office today!

Concert Notes

Paul James Birthday Show – Sound Academy – Jan 14 | Donna Grantis CD Release at The Rex Hotel – Jan 14 | Brian Blain’s Campfire Jam - Delta Chelsea Monarchs Pub – Jan 15 | 15^th Maple Blues Awards featuring Bill Johnson (pictured) and more! – Koerner Hall – Jan 16 | JJ Grey & Mofro w/MonkeyJunk – Horseshoe Tavern – Jan 22 | Mavis Staples – Brock University Centre for the Arts – Jan 25 | Mavis Staples – Koerner Hall – Jan 29 | Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – Jan 29 | Barrie February Blues Festival – Feb 2-5 | Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Feb 2 | Au Tour de la Guitare featuring Madagascar Slim, Philippe Lafreniere, Philippe Flahaut – Alliance Francaise de Toronto – Feb 10 | Sweet Honey in the Rock – Koerner Hall – Feb 10 | Winterfolk X – Delta Chelsea Hotel – Feb 17-19 | Brandi Disterheft – Glenn Gould Studio – Feb 21 | Aurora Winter Blues Festival – Feb 25| Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – Feb 26 | TBS Guitar Workshop – March 3 | The Black Keys – Air Canada Centre – March 14 | John Hammond – Hugh’s Room – March 23/24 | Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – April 1 | Layla Zoe – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – April 5 | Buddy Guy – Massey Hall – April 13 | Colin James – Massey Hall – April 20 | Lee Oskar, David Rotundo, Enrico Crivellaro – Hugh’s Room – April 25 | Kellylee Evans – Glenn Gould Studio – April 27 | Morgan Davis – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – May 3 | Digging Roots CD Release – Hugh’s Room – May 25 | George Thorogood & The Destroyers – Massey Hall – June 2

]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-12-2012/feed/ 0 http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-5-2012/ http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-5-2012/#comments Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:10:09 +0000 admin http://torontobluessociety.com/?p=3255

In this issue…
• Gladstone Series: Bradleyboy Mac Arthur – Tonight!
• 25th Annual Women’s Blues Revue on CBC
• Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Physical – Jan 14
• Maple Blues Awards
• February Blues Festivals
• Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience
• Guitar Workshop
• Become a TBS Member Today
• Concert Notes

Gladstone Series: Bradleyboy Mac Arthur – Tonight!

The Toronto Blues Society presents the best in blues talent the first Thursday of each month at the recently renovated Melody Bar in The Gladstone Hotel. Performances are free to the public and begin at 9pm. The next show in the series is Tonight, and features a performance by TBS Talent Search winner Bradleyboy Mac Arthur! Check out this video of Bradleyboy at the Exclaim! Office: http://exclaim.ca/MusicVideo/ExclaimTV/bradleyboy_performs_locomotive_dream

Check back soon to find out about upcoming performances including Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick (Feb 2), Layla Zoe (April 5), and Morgan Davis (May 3) http://www.gladstonehotel.com

25th Annual Women’s Blues Revue on CBC

Highlights from the 25^th Annual Toronto Blues Society Women’s Blues Revue at Massey Hall are streaming right now on CBC Radio 2’s Concerts on Demand: http://www.cbc.ca/radio2/cod/concerts/20111126women! Relive this historic night featuring performances by Kat Danser, Ada Lee, Emma-Lee, Treasa Levasseur, Shakura S’Aida, and Suzie Vinnick! Tune in for the radio broadcasts – January 12 at 7pm on CBC Radio 2 (94.1 FM), and January 13 at 2pm on CBC Radio 1 (99.1 FM).

Digital Dollars – Let’s Get Physical – Jan 14

The first Digital Dollars seminar “Let’s Get Physical” will take place at Lula Lounge (1585 Dundas St W, M6K 1T9) on January 14, 1pm-4pm. The featured speakers are Johan Hulqvist (Pinwheel Music, host), Lloyd Nishimura (Outside Distribution), Jack Schuller (Festival Record Distribution), Shelley Stein-Sacks (Music Think Tank), and David Travers-Smith (producer). The monthly seminar series features leading thinkers on the new digital music landscape. The FREE ADMISSION series is being presented by the Toronto Blues Society, Batuki Music, OCFF and Lula Lounge, and is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Tourism and Culture. Please check back in the coming weeks for more details about this exciting series and you’re your calendar for the second session on Sat Feb 11. http://digitaldollars2012.com/

Maple Blues Awards

Have you got your tickets? Purchase tickets by visiting http://performance.rcmusic.ca/event/toronto-blues-society-maple-blues-awards or by calling 416-408-0208. If you are a Charter member in good standing, please contact the TBS office before calling Koerner Hall to obtain a special discount code. The member discount code will expire this coming Tuesday so buy your tickets today!
In addition to this year’s hosts Treasa Levasseur and Shakura S’Aida, the performers at the 15^th annual Maple Blues Awards are Rita Chiarelli, Fathead (pictured), Bill Johnson, MonkeyJunk, and Joe Murphy all backed by The Maple Blues Band! Stick around after the show for a high energy after party with The 24^th Street Wailers in the lobby!

The national awards show takes place at beautiful Koerner Hall on January 16^th, 2012.The Maple Blues Band features musical director Gary Kendall (Bass), Tom Bona (Drums), Michael Fonfara (Keys), Teddy Leonard (Guitar), Chris Whiteley (Trumpet, Harmonica, Guitar), Al Lerman (Harmonica, Tenor Sax), Pat Carey (Tenor Sax), and Chris Murphy (Baritone Sax).

February Blues Festivals

It may be cold outside, but February is host to three hot local blues festivals in Toronto, Aurora, and Barrie! Winterfolk X takes place at various venues in Toronto Feb 17-19 with featured acts to be announced soon http://www.abetterworld.ca. The inaugural Aurora Winter Blues Festival takes place at Theatre Aurora on Feb 25, and features Shawn Kellerman (pictured), Michael Pickett, and MonkeyJunk http://www.aurorawinterbluesfestival.ca. The Barrie February Blues Festival takes place at various venues in Barrie Feb 2-5, featuring Michael Pickett, Steve Strongman, Carlos del Junco, Carey Worrod, The Jack de Keyzer Band, The Paul James Band and more http://www.barriejazzbluesfest.com.

Mississippi Tourism: Golf & Blues Experience

Love Golf? Love Blues? Get the best of both worlds with the Mississippi Tourism’s International Golf & Blues Experience! Hosted by Chuck Jackson, upcoming trips take place April 15-21 in Biloxi, MS and Oct 7-13 in Tunica, MS. To learn more, find out about TBS group rates and to book your trip, go to http://www.golfandblues.net/?refid=torontobluessociety

Guitar Workshop

Danny Marks (pictured) will host the Guitar Workshop on Sat March 3 at Dominion on Queen (500 Queen St E). Featured guitarists include Donna Grantis and more to be announced in the coming weeks!

Become a TBS Member Today

Enjoy the benefits of discounted tickets to TBS events. Have the Maple Blues Magazine delivered right to your door each month. Meet like-minded blues lovers and help keep the blues alive in Toronto. The Toronto Blues Society offers several different membership options:

CHARTER MEMBERSHIP – $50/year - Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter, membership card, discounts to TBS Events, exclusive access to special TBS events, other discounts, and voting rights.

FAMILY MEMBERSHIP – $70/year – Same privileges as Charter membership for a maximum of two adults and two children under 19.

INSTITUTIONAL or BENEFACTOR MEMBERSHIP – $125/year – Same privileges as Charter membership, plus more – Please inquire.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP – $35/year – Monthly Maple Blues Newsletter sent in fourth class mail

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP – $20/year – Same benefits as CHARTER membership (please include student card number)

Contact the TBS office today!

Concert Notes

Bradleyboy Mac Arthur – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Jan 5 | Paul James Birthday Show – Sound Academy – Jan 14 | Donna Grantis (pictured) CD Release at The Rex Hotel – Jan 14 | 15^th Maple Blues Awards – Koerner Hall – Jan 16 | JJ Grey & Mofro w/MonkeyJunk – Horseshoe Tavern – Jan 22 | Mavis Staples – Brock University Centre for the Arts – Jan 25 | Mavis Staples – Koerner Hall – Jan 29 | Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – Jan 29 | Barrie February Blues Festival – Feb 2-5 | Julian Fauth & Paul Reddick – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – Feb 2 | Au Tour de la Guitare featuring Madagascar Slim, Philippe Lafreniere, Philippe Flahaut – Alliance Francaise de Toronto – Feb 10 | Sweet Honey in the Rock – Koerner Hall – Feb 10 | Brandi Disterheft – Glenn Gould Studio – Feb 21 | Aurora Winter Blues Festival – Feb 25| Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – Feb 26 | TBS Guitar Workshop – March 3 | The Black Keys – Air Canada Centre – March 14 | John Hammond – Hugh’s Room – March 23/24 | Ken Whiteley – Hugh’s Room – April 1 | Layla Zoe – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – April 5 | Buddy Guy – Massey Hall – April 13 | Colin James – Massey Hall – April 20 | Lee Oskar, David Rotundo, Enrico Crivellaro – Hugh’s Room – April 25 | Kellylee Evans – Glenn Gould Studio – April 27 | Morgan Davis – Gladstone Hotel Melody Bar – May 3 | Digging Roots CD Release – Hugh’s Room – May 25 | George Thorogood & The Destroyers – Massey Hall – June 2

]]> http://torontobluessociety.com/2012/01/where-its-at-january-5-2012/feed/ 0