Festival Finale: The Canal Bank has traditionally closed the festival season in our little corner of the blues world but it took a big hit when founder Tim Sinnett passed away and it’s been a struggle getting it back to its former glory but thanks to Brant Parker and a lot Thorold blues lovers, this year’s event promises to be a blockbuster with some great blues acts including Spencer Mackenzie, Jack de Keyzer, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne, Johnny Max, Big Dan Jeffares, Al Lerman, James Anthony and lots more great Canadian blues talent. 5 stages and 21 bands over 4 days, October 17-20th in lovely downtown Thorold Ontario.  Individual day passes will be available at venues each day of the festival. Thursday $20, Friday $30, Saturday $30, Sunday $20. $60 for an All Access pass for all shows !

Amy Louie Grossman`s Music Scholarship: The Amy Louie Grossman`s Music Scholarship fund raiser and bursary presentation will take place at Grossman`s Tavern, 377 Spadina Ave, Toronto on Tuesday, Oct.8th 7pm.  Featured performers are The Happy Pals, Danny Marks w/ Alec Fraser & Teddy Hawkins, Frankie Foo and a performance by this year’s scholarship winner.  A just announced addition to the show will be a highly anitcipated set by a well known Canadian blues band who got their start at Toronto`s lovable live music joint back in 1969 before moving on to national and international acclaim.  A good cause for what promises to be “A Real Good Night” www.grossmanstavern.com

Hugh’s Room Update: Last month’s Loose Blues News included an appeal from Hugh’s Room to sell the remaining “community bonds” by the end of September and we’re happy to report that they achieved their target of 1.3 million thanks to 160 roots and blues music lovers who put their money down to assure that Hugh’s Room will have a permanent home.  Now all they need is a continuous stream of paying customers to keep the music flowing.  Check their schedule and make a point of attending a show or two in Toronto’s premiere venue for acoustic and roots music

Colin James tour update:  Unfortunately Colin James was involved in a motor vehicle accident and won’t be able to continue on the rest of his US tour. He’s recovering and doing well, but due to his injuries, he is unable to perform. He’s sorry he won’t be able to play these shows, and looks forward to coming back another time soon. Please contact your point of purchase for ticket refunds. 

The Mighty Duck Blues Band returns to Jo Blos Rock & Wok on Saturday, Oct.26th with special guest Jerome Godboo to kick start their 2024-2025 Saturday afternoon Blues series running weekly unitl mid May 2025.  Band members Gary Kendall, Jim Casson, Lorraine Ingle and Teddy Leonard will host an outstanding lineup of featured artists that will include Rockin Johnny Burgin, Bill Durst, Little Magic Sam, Johnny Max, Shawn Kellerman, Josh Miller, Spencer MacKenzie, Suzie Vinnick, Dawn Tyler Watson and Chuck Jackson.  2 Pelham Rd. St. Catharines ON, 2:30-6:30pm $10 905-685-8280  http://www.mightyduckbluesband.com

Grand River’s Road to Memphis Fundraiser: The Grand River Blues Society has a show at The Polish Hall in Brantford on Sunday, November 2 to raise some $$$ to cover travel expenses of the the selected acts, Big Dan Jeffares Band, Glenn Marais (Solo) and The Fraidy Scats TDKBF Youth Showcase Band. As a bonus, two other bands who have also attended The Memphis IBC will entertain you. The ever-popular Dwyane LaForme’s Boogie Blues and the return of the Jerome Godboo Band guaranteed to knock your socks off!

The Big Blues Chart: There’s a new blues chart in town! The Big Blues Chart combines DJ submissions with station playlists and airplay to offer unprecedented scope, covering three times the stations of its nearest competitor. Interested stations are welcome to participate; please direct inquiries to Info@thebigblueschart.com.  

Eric Clapton has announced the forthcoming release of a new album, Meanwhile, expected from Bushbranch/Surfdog Records on October 4, 2024. The 14-track collection includes six new tracks and eight previously released singles, including the just released single, “One Woman.” News of the forthcoming LP coincides with Clapton’s return to South America, touring the region for the first time in 13 years. After, the artist will pick up a trio of U.S. appearances with Gary Clark Jr. and Jimmie Vaughan. 

JUNO Awards reverses decision to eliminate categories: CARAS CEO Allan Reid has just posted on the JUNO Instagram page that “…Given the feedback from the community, CARAS will not put these three categories (Children’s Album of the Year, Reggae Recording of the Year and Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year) on hiatus this year.” Watch for an anouncement providing further clarity on a new direction and vision for the Awards including bringing in new categories to reflect the evolution of the Canadian music scene.  

TBS members will note from the page two notice that the TBS is also responding to feedback from the community regarding the Maple Blues Awards nomination and voting process.  Stay tuned for some announcements and further consultation with the community. If you love the blues, it’s a good time to get involved. If you’re not already a member, join the Toronto Blues Society and have your say. Contribute an article or a CD review to MapleBlues. Send a letter to the editor.  editor@torontobluessociety.com