Layla Zoe’s fourteenth album, The World Could Change, is one of contrasts, showcasing her sweeping range in both vocal expression and lyrical themes. Born in Victoria, the Canadian artist has won and been nominated for a slew of awards in North America and Europe, including Best Vocalist at the 2016 European Blues Awards.
This month’s recommended listening by Brant Zwicker, host/executive producer of At the Crossroads syndicated blues radio. Website: atcblues.ca
Amy Louie Grossmans Music Scholarship: Congratulations to The Five And Tens (Ray Vidal, Anthony Vidal, Nick Vidal and Sean Jackson), recipients of this year’s Amy Louie Grossmans Music Scholarship in the amount of $2000. The runner-up was Wayling James (Tim Wayling, Darrell James, Chris Bender, Rob Pelletier and Larry Gould) who received $1000.
In a world where mass media tend to generalize everything, it is easy for an individual to be defined by one facet of their life. In many cases, they can be associated to something they would never want to be defined by, like their career choice, their appearance or an action they most regret.
“Preach to My Soul”, Spencer Mackenzie’s third album, marks a giant step in the still young (22) musician’s career. Coming four years after his much praised “Cold November” album (released when he was just 18 years old) Spencer’s songwriting, vocals and guitar playing all display continued growth and maturity – which has led to the creation of an album that can stand with the best of contemporary blues releases.
In the world of music, Suzie Vinnick is among the best. The gifted songwriter, guitarist, bassist and vocalist is at the top of her game and her new release, Fall Back Home, further cements her place on the Canadian music landscape.
When Crystal Shawanda sings, the world stops. There is only her in the room, her vocal presence powerful and intoxicating.
Steve Hill, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, celebrates his 25th year as a recording artist with the release of his new album Dear Illusion, set for worldwide release via No Label Records on Friday November 11, 2022.
Selena Evangeline will perform at the Women’s Blues Revue November 25 at Massey Hall
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TBS logo and WBR artwork by Barbara Klunder
The Toronto Blues Society acknowledges the annual support of the Ontario Arts Council, the City of Toronto through the Toronto Arts Council and the Department of Canadian Heritage, and project support from FACTOR< and the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage (Canada Music Fund) and of Canada’s Private Broadcasters, The Canada Council for the Arts, the SOCAN Foundation, SOCAN, the Ontario Media Development Corporation, and the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.
