September 10, 2007

Edgar Meyer & Mike Marshall - cancelled

Awwwwwwww. The Edgar Meyer & Mike Marshall concert which was scheduled for Monday, September 17 - 8PM at the Winspear Centre has been cancelled due to a scheduling conflict.

Posted by songdawg at 7:25 AM | Concerts

July 10, 2007

Joan Armatrading ROCKED!

What an amazing concert!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! One of the best.

Joan Armatrading and her band blew my mind - it was so good. She played a great mix of old (Love and Affection, Willow, Me, Myself, I) and new (from her Into the Blues CD). The band was so tight - I left floating on air. Wow.

Posted by songdawg at 7:47 AM | Concerts

July 5, 2007

Cabin Fever

Cabin Fever is playing at the New West Hotel this week, July 2nd through 7th. The hotel is located at 15025 - 111 Avenue. Thursday 8:30 - 11:30 pm. Friday and Saturday 9:00 pm - 1:30 am. They will also play a matinee/open stage on Saturday July 7th from 3:00 - 6:00 pm so tune up your instruments and bring them along.

Posted by songdawg at 5:04 PM | Concerts

July 4, 2007

Lizzy Hoyt CD Release

Lizzy Hoyt is having a CD Release party! The CD is called 'My Red Shoes' and there will be a concert on Sunday July 15th, 2007 at McDougall United Church (10025-101 street). The concert starts at 7:00pm and admission is by donation.

Posted by songdawg at 6:39 PM | Concerts

June 23, 2007

Tegan and Sara Tix Now Available

Tegan and Sara are playing the Winspear Centre on Tuesday, September 25th - 7:30 pm. Tickets are now for sale.

Their So Jealous recording is one of the cds I turn to regularly to help me get into the coding zone. Hear their new cd.

Posted by songdawg at 6:40 AM | Concerts

June 21, 2007

Edgar Meyer & Mike Marshall Concert

Tickets are on sale for Edgar Meyer & Mike Marshall
Monday, September 17 - 8PM
Winspear Centre

Considered masters of acoustic music, both Edgar Meyer & Mike Marshall create some of the most exciting music of today. Together, Marshall & Meyer craft a concert of rare beauty and range.

Posted by songdawg at 2:47 PM | Concerts

May 31, 2007

Jerry Douglas

Jerry Douglas is widely renowned as perhaps the finest dobro player in contemporary acoustic music and often plays with Alison Krauss and Union Station. And he's coming to town on June 18 at the River Cree and Resort Casino.

You can get tickets through ticketmaster.

UPDATE: This is hilarious - I knew it was too good to be true.
Even though the ticketmaster site says it's this Jerry Douglas (musician):

Marshall phoned the River Cree Casino and it's this Jerry Douglas (of Young & the Restless fame):

Posted by songdawg at 8:01 AM | Comments (2) | Concerts

May 19, 2007

JOAN ARMATRADING

JOAN ARMATRADING EDMONTON TICKETS ARE GOING ON SALE

Keystone Music is very pleased to announce that they are presenting the fabulous Joan Armatrading in concert.

Joan's new CD "Into The Blues" had it's debut at #1 on May 1st on Billboard Magazine's Blues Chart! And Hit #2 on iTunes Blues Chart!

The Edmonton performance takes place on July 9th at the Winspear Centre. You can buy tickets by going to http://www.winspearcentre.com/calendar.asp?action=detail&id=3491&incDate=7/9/2007&CatID=86

We got tix - it's going to be an amazing concert.

Posted by songdawg at 12:27 PM | Concerts

April 15, 2007

Rhonda Vincent and the Rage

On Friday, we went to see Rhonda Vincent and the Rage at the McDougall Church. It was excellent and if I didn't already have plans for tonight I would see them out in Red Deer too.

From the balcony

Chet and Darcy Whiteside metting Rhonda

At intermission with Mickey Harris :)

Posted by songdawg at 9:01 AM | Concerts

March 16, 2007

Guy Clark, Lyle Lovett, Joe Eli and John Hiatt

I love listening to Guy Clark. He's one of my favourite songwriters. And last night at the Winspear, I got to see and hear him at a sold out show. It was a little piece of heaven. The seats we got were amazing. Looks like Mr. Clark has acrylic nails like Marshall for picking - though not quite as long :)

I saw the same lineup at the Jubilee in 2003 and enjoyed it then. I had a great time last night and hope they come to town again soon. Or maybe I need a road trip to Austin...

Posted by songdawg at 7:37 AM | Comments (1) | Concerts

February 10, 2007

Tim O'Brien

Marc Ladouceur and Bob Jahrig had a great set - they sounded wonderful.

Tim O'Brien was amazing - I loved it.

Not much to say except thank goodness for the folk clubs in town helping us get through the winter with live music.

Posted by songdawg at 2:53 PM | Concerts

January 27, 2007

FMFC - Bob Brozman

Last night the Full Moon Folk Club presented Bob Brozman who is an amazing musician.

Opening for him was Tim Williams. Here he is telling one of his stories between songs. Tim did a particularly fine version of a Big Bill Broonzy song but I didn't catch the title - something about "everything I got belong to you...".

Bob Brozman was phenominal - words cannot really describe him. Neither can pictures. You would have to see him perform live or on video to really get a sense of how crazy and out there he is. But in a good way.

He did some really cool rhythm audience participation stuff - I was mesmerized by his playing.

Here's Bob Brozman's stage setup - a beautiful site. He has even more instruments on stage than Marshall does :)

Posted by songdawg at 9:04 AM | Concerts

January 15, 2007

Cabin Fever

Got Cabin Fever? Check out the Cabin Fever Bluegrass Band

Monday January 15th through Saturday January 20th, the Cabin Fever Bluegrass Band will be playing the bar at the New West Hotel. It is located at 15025 - 111 Avenue. Monday through Thursday 8:30 - 11:30 pm. Friday and Saturday 9:00 pm - 1:30 am. There will also be a matinee/open stage on Saturday January 20th from 3:00 - 6:00 pm so tune up your instruments and bring them along.

Posted by songdawg at 7:01 PM | Concerts

November 14, 2006

Jo Miller / Laura Love in Vancouver

If you are in the Vancouver area ...

November 25, 2006, Vancouver BC
The Jo Miller / Laura Love bluegrass band
opens for Del McCoury at the Chan Centre at UBC. Bluegrass freaks -
do not miss this show!!!! www.chancentre.com

Posted by songdawg at 8:13 AM | Concerts

November 4, 2006

Laura Love

I love Laura Love. And I love Tim O'Brien. And guess what?

"Laura goes back to the studio in early December to record a new CD! Produced by fiddle queen, Barbara Lamb, this will be recorded in Nashville with some of the finest acoustic, bluegrass musicians on the planet, including Tim O'Brien, Mike Bubb, Jeff Autry, Scott Vestal, and others. The theme centers around the end of slavery and Laura's family connection to that time period. Title: NeGrass. We don't have a release date yet, but it will be in spring, 2007."

Woohooo - that is going to be one amazing recording.

Last night I drove out to Festival Place in Sherwood Park to see Laura Love with Jen Todd. Festival Place is a beautiful theatre with cabaret seating and I sat with a couple from Edmonton and four people who drove from Saskatoon just to see the show (now that's a fan). It was a fantastic performance (still got My Booty and Get It Right This Time running through my head). Uplifting, beautiful, fun, with well-crafted songs. My favorite concert this year. My only complaint is that the show was waaaaay too short. Now they played a full set and a wonderful encore it's just that it was soooo good and I was enjoying it so much that I could have listened all night.

Jen Todd, me and Laura Love

About 11-12 years ago when I was living in Kingston, my Mom who at that time was a graduate student at Queen's took me to a psychology student potluck and jam at a friend's house. I had brought Laura Love's Pangaea recording and we were jamming along. I love that album (and the bluegrass one with Jo Miller). Well, at that gathering I caught the eye of a guitar player who took a shine to me and who won my heart. We've been married for over 10 years. Music was a big part of our life then and is now - like we promised in our wedding vows - we have a wonderful life filled with friends and lots of music. Seeing Laura Love brought back a lot of good memories.

Posted by songdawg at 12:23 PM | Concerts

October 19, 2006

NBCMS Concert

Tonight was the traditional NBCMS Fall Workshop Instructors concert at the Royal Alberta Museum.

Foggy Hogtown Boys

Don Rigsby, John McNaughton and Matt Hotte

Posted by songdawg at 11:08 PM | Concerts

October 16, 2006

Delilah DeWyld from Dangerville

I would love to see this woman play rockabilly bass. This has to be one of the coolest bass playing photos - taken from the DangerVille site from their show at The Orbit Room (Grand Rapids, MI ).

For more amazing pics check out RockabillyBass.com

Posted by songdawg at 2:39 PM | Concerts

October 15, 2006

The Waybacks

On Friday night, The Waybacks were playing at the Full Moon Folk Club. I didn't know what to expect but I was blown away - I loved the concert. The best part was watching Joe Kyle Jr. grooving on his Eminence bass. Arco, pizz, texas swing, fiddle tunes, dawg-like music, folk/rock, jazz - it was all good. I asked him at the break if he had time to give me a lesson before they left for Calgary and he graciously said yes. I am glad that I asked- he's not only a great guy but an excellent teacher. He walked me through some of my new gear and helped me with technique. It was the boost I have been looking for. Very inspiring. (Thanks Joe!)

Tonight I am off to see Lynn Miles and one of my favourite bands The Bills. Should be another good show. My seat is as close as I would like it to be so I am bringin my binocs so I can stare at Glen Manders all night.

Posted by songdawg at 5:45 PM | Concerts

September 29, 2006

Folk Club Season Has Arrived

The best thing about fall is the Edmonton Folk Club concert series and this weekend they are in full swing.

Friday night the Full Moon Folk club presents Eliza Gilkinson.

Saturday night at the Northern Lights Folk Club is
Terry Morrison and John Gorham / special guest Jay Gilday.

Looks like a promising year.

Posted by songdawg at 7:49 AM | Concerts

April 17, 2006

Taj Mahal

Multi-instrumentalist, Grammy award winner, singer and blues guitarist Taj Mahal plays at the Jubilee tomorrow night.

Can't wait - we have front row centre tickets and we'll be soaking it all up.

Posted by songdawg at 8:51 AM | Concerts

April 9, 2006

Back Porch Swing CD Release Party

April 15, 2006: CD Celebration
Back Porch Swing is having a party for the release of their new CD, "Riding", at Bonnie Doon Hall, 9240 93 Street, Edmonton. Music at 8:00 PM. Special guests Joanne and Haley Myrol, Raisin' Cain, and The Riverdale Bluegrass Band. Tix $15 includes a CD! Tickets available at the door.

Riverdale Bluegrass Band has asked me to join them to step in for Doghouse Donnie for that evening. Hope to see you there!

Posted by songdawg at 1:52 PM | Concerts

February 23, 2006

The Mountain Bluebirds

Don't miss:

The Mountain Bluebirds
Friday, February 24, 2006
Pleasantview Community Hall
10860 – 57 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta

Bring your instruments for the jam afterwards.

Posted by songdawg at 6:24 AM | Concerts

January 29, 2006

Voices Unite Project Coffee House

There will be a Coffee House to assist 6 second-year Social Work students from Red Deer College, who will be working at the Edzimkulu project in the village of Ndawana, South Africa.

Saturday, February 4, 2006
Trinity Lutheran Church
10014 81 Avenue, Edmonton
7:00 - 10:00 pm

Download poster

Posted by songdawg at 6:01 PM | Concerts

December 29, 2005

Marshall Lawrence New Year's Eve 2005

On Thursday December 29, 2005, enjoy an evening of acoustic blues with Marshall Lawrence and Kat Danser. Music gets underway at 7pm at the Blue Chair Cafe (9624 76 Ave. Edmonton, AB). For more information, please contact Harold Wollin at (780) 989.2861 or http://www.bluechair.ca.

Friday, December 30 and Saturday December 31, 2005: Let's start the party early! Join Marshall Lawrence and Dave "Crawdad" Cantera for this NEW YEARS Eve 2-Day Acoustic Blues Bash at Orlando's III Pub & Steakhouse (6104-104 Street, Edmonton, Alberta). Call (780) 988-5457 for more information.

Posted by songdawg at 7:09 AM | Concerts

December 4, 2005

Georgette Fry at The Yardbird Suite

Marshall and I had a great time going to see Georgette Fry at The Yardbird Suite on Friday. George can belt out a good bump-and-grind like the best of them and we took advantage by dancing up a storm. It was fun reminiscing about good times in Kingston except for the cloud of homesickness that's been following me around since. Maybe we'll head back next summer for a visit.

UPDATE: Tracy Kolenchuk took some great photos from Saturday Night. Check them out at: http://www.pbase.com/tracyk/2005_12_03_georgette_fry.

Posted by songdawg at 1:22 PM | Comments (2) | Concerts

November 29, 2005

Georgette Fry

Georgette Fry is coming to Edmonton. She'll be performing at The Yardbird Suite on December 2nd and 3rd. If you want to hear some wonderful R&B and blues and a woman with a great voice don't miss her show.

When we lived in Kingston, you could find us on Thursday nights dancing to George and her band at Brandy's Blues Bar on the Lake Ontario waterfront. Afterwards we would stumble to Bubba's for pizza and poutine then head home (home being just a couple blocks away :). I am looking forward to hearing her again and catching up on Kingston news.

Georgette also is the director of the Shout Sister Shout choir that my Mom is in and loves. They just performed (or are soon) an opening for Tom Jackson - can't wait to hear how that went.

Posted by songdawg at 8:52 PM | Concerts

November 14, 2005

NBCMS Concert - Woodbend opening for James King Band

On November 19th, Woodbend will be playing on this stage:

We're warming up the crowd for the NBCMS' James King Concert. It is going to be great night of bluegrass. If you're interested in coming you can pick up tickets at the Wednesday night NBCMS jam at Pleasantview Community Hall located at 10860 - 57 Avenue, at Southside Sound, 10342-82nd Avenue and Myhre's Music 8735-118th Avenue. Tickets are also available at the door (if the event is not a sell-out).

Here are some video still images from our last gig at the Reaching Out Benefit.

George Bayard	Windi Hanson	Terry Lawson
	Les Eberhardt	and me.. Toby Tellier

Concert Details
November 19, 2005
Northern Bluegrass Circle Music Society Concert
Woodbend Bluegrass Band is proud to be the opening act for the James King Band
Royal Alberta Museum
12845 102 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
7:00 pm

Hope to see you there!

Posted by songdawg at 8:19 PM | Concerts

October 30, 2005

Marshall Lawrence at Orlando's

Friday and Saturday night Marshall Lawrence and Crawdad played some acoustic blues at Orlando's III (6104-104 Street, Edmonton). Sounds like it was a great time. Looks like they will be playing there on New Year's Eve.

Photo by K. Vladicka-Davies

Posted by songdawg at 11:55 AM | Concerts

October 26, 2005

B.B. King concert lowdown on the drive home...

Toby: From the moment I sat down in the newly renovated seats at the Northern Jubilee I wanted to leave.

Marshall: Me too - I wish you had said something - I was ready to leave after the third song.

Toby: Our seats weren't the best since the concert sold out so fast and we were in the first balcony. About where we sat the last time we saw B.B. King and it was fine then. But last time we weren't squished in like sardines - it was a close fit. I could have done without knee-jiggling boy beside me or the man who coughed behind me and I felt his cough-breath on my neck. Tooooo close for comfort for me.

Marshall: Yeah - the butt smells were killing me. The seats are packed soooo close together it was excruciating.... How close were they... well let me tell you ... you could smell the persons "butt smell" sitting next to you.... for real... now that's packing them in tight..... It'll have to be a special concert for me to go through that again... for sure...

Toby: B.B. was on - he's such a great performer. Smooth and makes everyone feel good. I just kept the binocs on him the whole time imagining that I wasn't sitting beside jiggling-knee boy. What did you think of the band?

Marshall: B.B. was great but the band was low energy... they could have supported him more and made the show rock... not sure what was up but I was very disappointed in the band... B.B. was great... so it was worth it... but the band needs a good spanking for sure....

Toby: His voice is amazing - still sounds as great as ever. Can't believe he's 80 - he still has the moves. And lots of good stories and schtick.

Marshall: I'm starving.

Toby: Don't make me drive through the creepy McDonalds drive-through. I am begging you.
(bickering ensues... but Marshall wins out in the end.)

Marshall: Chicken Select yum yum

Posted by songdawg at 10:45 PM | Comments (2) | Concerts

September 13, 2005

Fiddler's Roost Talent Night

This Saturday (September 17) is Talent Night at The Fiddler's Roost (8906 99 Street, Edmonton). Fiddler's Roost is one of the most ecclectic open stages in town and the people are always friendly.

From 6:30 to 8:00 pm enjoy a chicken dinner from Peter & Karen's Kitchen (while quantities last). Music starts at 8:00 pm. Get there early to sign up.

Posted by songdawg at 6:37 PM | Concerts

September 12, 2005

Uptown Folk Club Open Stage

The Uptown Folk Club Open Stages will be on the last Friday of every month (except December) at 7 P.M. Woodcroft Community Hall (13915-115 Avenue).

• September 30, 2005
  
• October 28, 2005
  
• November 25, 2005
  
• January 27, 2006
  
• Mar. 24, 2006
  
• Apr. 28, 2006
  
• May 26, 2006
  

Admission for non members is $4. Free for Members. If you don't have your 2005/2006 Membership it is $10.00 and will be available at the door.

Posted by songdawg at 11:08 PM | Concerts

September 9, 2005

Taj Mahal coming April 18, 2006

Just bought tickets to see Taj Mahal at the (newly refurbished) Jubilee Auditorium in the spring. Front row center. Yessss!

Posted by songdawg at 6:43 PM | Concerts

July 28, 2005

Wyrd Sisters

Just noticed that the Wyrd Sisters have used photos I took at their concert at The Arden theatre for their website background and their performance page. Very cool. Looks like they have a new album coming out.

Posted by songdawg at 8:51 PM | Concerts

March 10, 2005

David Parmley & Continental Divide

The final concert of the Northern Bluegrass Circle Music Society's season will take place this Friday, March 11th at the Provincial Museum Theatre. It should be a great concert as they are bringing in David Parmley & Continental Divide from the States. Also the Northern Bluegrass Band (NBCMS's House Band) will perform a short opening set. Doors will open at 7:30 and the concert begins at 8:00 PM.

Posted by songdawg at 10:04 PM | Concerts

January 29, 2005

David Petersen & 1946

David Petersen and 1946 have a vintage bluegrass sound.

Very cool - the bass is rigged with a drum skin. Check out the brush in the bass player's right hand. Inspired from the great Earnest Newton.

Posted by songdawg at 2:03 PM | Concerts

January 22, 2005

Benefit Concert for Victims in South Asia

EDMONTON ? The Callingwood Road Presbyterian Church is organizing a benefit concert for the victims in South Asia in light of the earthquake and tsunami disaster on December 26, 2004.

The concert is scheduled for Saturday, February 5, 2005 at 7PM. It is being held at the Italian Cultural Centre, 14230 ? 133 Avenue, in Edmonton.

Local artists and musicians who are participating in the fundraiser include

? Bill Bourne, Juno Award nominee and winner
? Gateway Chorus, Sweet Adelines International Chorus
? Saffron, Sweet Adelines International Quartet
? Magnetic North, S.P.E.R.S.Q.S.A. Quartet
? Charles Weaver, Local Singer and Song-writer
? Marshall Lawrence from the Marshall Lawrence Blues Band
? Clear Foundation, Taylor University College Worship Band
? The Choristers, Taylor University College Choir
? And more ?

Tickets are available at Tix On The Square. Everybody is welcome! Tickets are $25 each plus any applicable charges. For ticket information, please call (780) 420-1757 or www.tixonthesquare.ca. All proceeds will go to the Canadian Red Cross ? ?Asia Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Fund?.

www.oneworldbeat.org.

Posted by songdawg at 12:51 PM | Concerts

January 20, 2005

DAVID PETERSON & 1946 CONCERT AND WORKSHOP

There is quite a bit of excitement about the upcoming concert with David Peterson & 1946 this Saturday evening (January 22, 2005) at the Provincial Museum. It promises to be quite the show. It would be a good concert to introduce a friend to bluegrass music. Doors open at 7:30 and the concert begins at 8:00 PM.

Tickets are available at Pleasantview on Wednesday, Mhyre's Music, Southside Sound and at the door. Members $17.00 and non-member $20.00.

Also, David Peterson & 1946 will put on a bluegrass workshop this Saturday afternoon on their respective instruments. It will be held at Pleasantview Community Hall from 1:30 to 3:00 PM. For more information call Rob at 460-4197. The cost to attend the workshop is a reasonable $20.00.

Posted by songdawg at 5:50 PM | Concerts

November 21, 2004

Bluegrass is Alive and Kicking in E-town

Friday I went down and caught a couple of good bluegrass sets of Down to the Wood and Saturday caught the Riverdale Bluegrass Band and the Dry River Boys performing. It was great to see and hear so much Canadian talent.

Posted by songdawg at 12:41 PM | Concerts

November 7, 2004

New Edmonton Bluegrass Room

This weekend was the opening of a new Edmonton venue for live Bluegrass. The Continental Inn (16625 Stony Plain Rd) will be hosting live bluegrass every Friday and Saturday evening from 8-11pm.

Maple Creek - Nov 5, 2004
Homefire CD Release Party - Nov 6, 2004
Black Lightning Bluegrass Band - Nov 12-13, 2004
Down to the Wood - Nov 19-20, 2004
Jerusalem Ridge - Nov 26-27, 2004
The Swell Fellas - Dec 3-4, 2004

(All listings are unofficial and gleaned from the web - contact the Continental Inn to be sure)

Posted by songdawg at 2:35 PM | Concerts

June 29, 2004

Al Green is HOT

Last night M and I went to see Al Green perform at a Jazz City event at the Jubilee. Not only was it his first time performing in Alberta, it is the last concert at the Jubilee before they do their renovations. Al Green was HOT. Our minds were blown. The whole place was hopping - I have never seen an Edmonton crowd get so into the music. Most people were dancing after the first song. Al Green was wearing a white tuxedo and passing out red roses to all the women who flocked to the stage. He kissed one woman on the cheek and she was just bouncing euphorically. It was great. The band was TIGHT. There were two drum kits, a horn section, rhythm and lead guitars, bass guitar, keyboards, organ, two backing singers and two young men dancers. The band was amazing and dynamic and were all grooving and watching Al's every move like hawks. One tidbit - Al was drinking Gatorade. Oh, I will never forget the way he flicked the sweat off his brow - very sexy. The only thing that was a little disappointing is that at times the sound was too "bassy" and "boomy". The bass drum was too loud and the vocals, guitars and horns not prominent enough in the mix. It kind of reminded me of listening to loud rock music in a basement. But Al Green's vocals cut through despite it. He sounded great and still has IT. He performed the most soulful version of Amazing Grace - I will never be able to hear that song again without thinking of him. The set consisted of a mix of gospel songs, songs from his new album "I Can't Stop" and older songs from the 70s. The evening finished with "Love and Happiness". Most everyone was grooving and dancing in the aisles. The crowd gave a hearfelt and 10 minute long standing ovation but Al Green didn't came back for an encore. The crowd though was energized and in good spirits and eventually drifted off. It was a great show - not too miss!

Posted by songdawg at 4:08 PM | Concerts

May 20, 2004

Fat Possum Juke Joint Caravan

Went to see the Fat Possum Juke Joint Caravan at the New City Likwid Lounge featuring T-Model Ford, Kenny Brown and Cedric Burnside, and Paul "Wine" Jones. Everyone got a good groove on and kicked out some solid blues. Model T-Ford

Posted by songdawg at 7:27 AM | Concerts

May 18, 2004

Edgar

Edgar Meyer was jaw-droppingly great. I loved his performance - it was just so good. I bought a copy of the Bach: Unaccompanied Cello Suites which he performs on double bass. I crank it up at work - great getting into the zone music.

Posted by songdawg at 7:04 AM | Concerts

May 14, 2004

Edgar Meyer

Edgar Meyer is "...quite simply, the best bassist alive." And I have a ticket to see him tonight at the Winspear. See the Obstinatio Trailer video clip with Edgar Meyer and Bela Fleck.

Posted by songdawg at 7:17 AM | Comments (1) | Concerts

April 12, 2004

The Party

"Thank you all for coming to my party!"

Posted by songdawg at 11:21 AM | Comments (2) | Concerts | My Sweetheart

April 5, 2004

Junofesting

Aaaah JunoFest... a weekend chockfull of great music. On Friday, I went to the Full Moon Folk Club to see Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart perform. The place was full which was a nice surprise considering all of the other events happening in town. As a nice treat, Brock Zeman and Keith Glass opened the show with a set full of song gems. Brock is a great songwriter ? his songs remind me of my favourite Texan songwriters but have great original stories and hooks. Keith Glass was in fine form and played some beautiful acoustic guitar and some nice tasty slide. Keith has a studio in Ontario called Acoustic Valley. I also caught Brock and Keith on CBC Radioactive and CKUA?s Folk Routes but missed their JunoFest set. Well worth checking them out. Brock Zeman, me, Keith Glass Mark Stuart and Stacey Earle Mark Stuart and Stacey Earle opened their first set with ?Fishbowl? which is a very catchy tune ? can?t seem to get it out of my head. They are a fun and quirky pair. Did you know that Mark is on the Chet Atkins diet? After that I went Junofesting ? off to the Masonic Hall to see David Francey (the place was packed for his set ? congrats on the Juno), Maple Creek (they were in fine form and are currently recording their next album with Emory Lester), and Bill Bourne (I got some dancing in with Bonnie on the balcony). Steve Dawson and Jim Byrnes On Saturday, Marshall, Kathy, Mike and myself went to the Junofest blues evening to soak up some acoustic blues. We saw Mark Sterling playing his acoustic slide guitar, Kyle Riabko (a good rock/pop guitar player even though his performance was slightly affected), Jim Byrnes with an amazing fiddle/trumpet player (I unfortunately forget his name) and Steve Dawson (congrats on the Juno), and Harrison Kennedy (great blues guitar and kazoo). I didn't catch the Junos on tv or live but the Juno awards that I am interested in are actually presented on the Saturday before. Got a Juno story?

Posted by songdawg at 7:41 AM | Concerts

March 31, 2004

JunoFest schedule

Friday-Saturday Apr 2-3 JunoFest Concerts prior to Juno Awards; 14 venues $10 per show or $25 wristband (lineup subject to change). Tickets at Ticketmaster 451-8000. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Masonic Temple - 10318 - 100 Avenue Friday Folk Night presented by Northern Lights Folk Club room A 9:00 HOST - Bill Bourne 9:15-9:55 Jen Kraatz 10:15-11:00 David Francey 11:20-12:00 Maple Creek 12:20-1:00 Bill Bourne Trio room B 8:30-9:10 Karla Anderson 9:30-10:10 Kristin Sweetland 10:30-11:10 John Wort Hannam Saturday room A 9:00 HOST - Mark Sterling 9:15-9:55 Kyle Riabko 10:15-11:00 Jim Byrnes 11:20-12:00 Harrison Kennedy 12:20-1:00 JUNOFest Roots-Blues Jam room B 8:30-9:10 Ben Sures 9:30-10:10 Wendy McNeill 10:30-11:10 Terry McDade ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Cook County Saloon - 8010 Gateway Boulevard Friday 9:45-10:15 The Trucks 10:45-11:30 Lisa Hewitt 12:00 midnight Charlie Major Saturday 9:45-10:15 Dustkickers 10:45-11:30 Tracy Millar 12 midnight Tom Phillips and The Men Of Constant Sorrow host the JUNOFest All-star Country Jam ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Four Rooms Restaurant & Lounge - 137 Edmonton City Centre East Friday 9:00-9:40 Ann Vriend 10:00-10:40 Emily Jordan 11:00-11:40 Steve Pineo 12:00-12:40 Keith Glass Saturday 9:00-9:40 Kelly Alanna 10:00-10:40 Christian Mena 11:00-11:40 Kyla Sandulak 12:00-12:40 Johanna Sillanpaa and Aaron Young ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Longriders - 11733-78 Street Friday 9:30-10:10 Doug Jenson & The Feel Kings 10:30-11:10 Tacoy Ryde 11:30-12:10 Derek Miller 12:30 Bobby Cameron Saturday 9:30-10:10 Exit 303 10:30-11:10 Superseed 11:30-12:10 Painting Daisies 12:30 David Gogo ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Nest at NAIT - 11762-106 Street Friday 8:00-8:40 Three Dead Trolls 9:00-9:40 J.I.F 10:00 Old Reliable ------------------------------------------------------------------------ New City Likwid Lounge - 10081 Jasper Avenue Friday 9:15-9:45 The Waking Eyes 10:00-11:00 Buck 65 11:150-12:15 Matthew Barber 12:30 Matt Mays and El Torpedo Saturday 9:30-10:10 Out Of Your Mouth 10:30-11:10 Kinnie Starr 11:30-12:10 The Trews 12:30 The Dears ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Power Plant Caf頦amp; Bar (U of A campus) - 114 Street, 89 Avenue Friday 9:30-10:10 Jason Plumb 10:30-11:10 Barlow 11:30-12:10 Captain Tractor 12:30 The Floor Saturday 9:30-10:10 The Swiftys 10:30-11:10 Clayton Bellamy 11:30-12:10 Danny Michel 12:30 Joel Plaskett Emergency ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Red's Entertainment Complex - #2556, 8882- 170 Street Friday All-Ages show presented by Black Dot Productions 8:00-8:30 The Mark Birtles Project 8:45-9:15 Our Mercury 9:30-10:00 The Operators 10:15-11:00 Wednesday Night Heroes 11:15 Mad Bomber Society Saturday Urban Night presented by the Urban Music Association of Canada 10:00-11:00 DJs Shortround & Echo 11:00-11:15 Blessed 11:25-11:35 Warparty 11:45-11:55 Darkson 12:05-12:15 Politic Live 12:25-12:40 Carl Henry 12:45-12:55 Kia Kadiri 1:00-1:15 Fresh I.E. 1:30 Jeff Hendrick ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Sidetrack Caf頭 10333 - 112 Street Friday Roots/World Music Night presented by Canada Council and CBC 9:30-10:00 Sandy Scofield 10:20-11:00 Steve Dawson 11:20-12:10 Oh Susanna 12:30 ?Bomba! Saturday 9:00-9:40 John Henry 10:00-10:40 Bottleneck 11:00-11:40 Shaye 12:00 Blackie and The Rodeo Kings ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Seedy's Bar - 10314-104 Street Friday 10:00-10:40 Knee Deep in Grass 11:00-11:40 Roger 12:00 midnight Dale Ladouceur & The Broke Ensemble Saturday 10:00-10:40 Faunts 11:00-11:40 Darrek Anderson & The Guaranteed 12:00 midnight King Muskafa ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Stanley A. Milner Library Theatre - 7 Sir Winston Churchill Square Friday - doors 8:00, show at 8:30 8:30-9:00 Terry Morrison 9:20-10:00 Christine Hanson 10:10-11:00 The Fates Saturday - doors 7:30, show at 8:00 8:00- 8:50 and 9:10- 10:00 songwriters-in-the-round: Danny Mack, Tom Philips, Stewart MacDougall, Corb Lund ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Sugar Bowl Coffee & Juice Bar - 10922- 88 Avenue NW Friday 9:30-10:10 Cris Cuddy 10:30-11:10 Mike McDonald 11:30-12:10 Le Fuzz 12:30 David Gogo Saturday 9:30-10:10 Danyluk & Card 10:30-11:10 Andrea House & Chris Smith 11:30-12:10 Shuyler Jansen 12:30 Wilfred N & The Grown Men ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Von's Steak and Fish House - 10309 - 81 Avenue Friday 9:00-9:45 Mike Stack 10:05-10:50 Duane Steele 11:10-12:00 Gord Matthews Saturday 9:00-9:45 Joanne & Hayley Myrol 10:05-10:50 Brock Zeman (with Keith Glass) 11:10-12:00 Jake Mathews ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Yardbird Suite - 11 Tommy Banks Way Friday 9:00-9:40 Chris Andrew Trio 10:00-10:40 The Kent Sangster Quartet 11:00-11:40 John Stetch 12:00 midnight Dave Babcock hosts the JUNOFest Jazz Jam Saturday 9:00-9:35 The Bobby Cairns Trio 9:50-10:10 The Bomba Trio 10:30-11:00 Jeri Brown 11:10-11:40 Ranee Lee 11:50-12:20 Michael Kaeshammer 12:30 Sandro Dominelli Quintet Saturday, April 3 Intense Songwriting Workship with Ron Hynes. For serious writers interested in taking their craft to the next level, this 3-4 hour session on Sat. afternoon costs $100. For details, call Bill Werthman 780 288 8111 Sunday, April 4 Songwriters' Circle featuring Buck 65, esthero, Corb Lund, Danny Michel, Shaye, Liam Titcomb ; hosted by Cindy Church, Marc Jordan, Murray McLauchlan, Ian Thomas Winspear Centre; Noon; Tickets $26.50 + up 428-1414 or 1-800-563-5081 Sunday, Apr 4 Juno Awards Rexall Place Tickets $57-91.50 at Ticketmaster 451-8000.

Posted by songdawg at 8:22 AM | Concerts

March 20, 2004

Shouldna

What was I thinking? Went drinking and dancing last night at The Sidetrack to The George Bushes which was good. Drinking waaaay too much was not. I am moving real slow - fuzzy teeth, pounding head, queasy stomach, dead brain. The last time I was this drunk was at the Mahones with Marshall a few years ago. Funny thing is Wildwood Flower is coming over in a couple of hours to practice - hope I can get in shape - might take a miracle. Any hangover advice?

Posted by songdawg at 10:09 AM | Comments (2) | Concerts

March 8, 2004

Concert photos

Friday night's music filled evening started out with Homefire warming up the crowd. They are a local bluegrass band with Anne, Bob, Rose, Dave and Chris creating some warm music. Homefire Band Anne and Bob Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek: Vicki Simmons on bass was playing a Carvin bass which sounded great and had a wonderful acoustic tone. Dale Ann Bradley, Jesse Brock, Michael Cleveland They were are excellent musicians. But Michael Cleveland's fiddle playing is unbelievable - smooth, sweet and beautiful. Afterwards we headed down to the Sidetrack to see The Undertakin' Daddies. Sheila and Marshall drinking Grasshoppers. The Undertakin' Daddies shaking it up The bass is a modified 1/4 size bass that comes apart for travelling - very cool. The neck fits in a gun case (?) and the body fits in a special made case. That must simplify life on the road. Afterwards we met Mark Thibeault who is the resophonic guitarist in the band. He owns a company called Rayco Resophonics and builds guitars - they sound great. He also married to Jenny Lester which made our day! It was great to finally see the UDs and hang out - I can't remember the last time I was in a bar.

Posted by songdawg at 7:40 AM | Concerts

March 5, 2004

Dale Ann Bradley and the Undertakin Daddies

I feel exhausted from the week and ready to crash but instead I have a fun-packed weekend ahead. Starting with Dale Ann Bradley and Coon Creek at the Provincial Museum of Alberta and followed by The Undertakin' Daddies at the Sidetrack. Maybe I will see you there!

Posted by songdawg at 8:02 AM | Concerts

February 21, 2004

Down To The Wood

Went to the Full Moon Folk Club last night with Sheila to see Tim Hus and Down To The Wood. Great show - Tim Hus' storytelling is amazing and the DTTW boys did a great job. They played some bluegrass standards like I am Weary, Blue Ridge Cabin Home and added in some songs from Gordon Lightfoot and Dylan (I think). I had a good time. Down To The Wood is also playing on March 2nd at The Stanley Milner library as part the Discover Series - check 'em out!

Posted by songdawg at 12:09 PM | Comments (2) | Concerts

February 11, 2004

Iris Dement

I went to see Iris Dement perform at The Arden this evening. I have a couple of cds but I rarely listen to them, she writes amazing songs but I find I can only listen to a couple of songs before I turn it off. Maybe it's something in her voice or her phrasing that is sometimes a little too emotionally raw. So I wasn't sure if I would enjoy the concert, if it would be too depressing or slow. Instead I was blown away, it was one of the best performances I have seen. Iris with her Martin guitar and her warm boots When she walked on and started to play it was so quiet it was like no one in the crowd was even breathing. Her delivery is so sincere and feels so intimate it is spellbinding. I had the sense that she was baring her soul and sharing the deepest sentiments but without seeming affected. She is a great songwriter and an excellent performer. Iris at the piano She played a couple of gospel songs including some from her newest cd which is a collection of oldtime gospel tunes. She also played beautiful renditions of When My Mornin' Comes Around, Walkin' Home "I'm walkin' home tonight The streets are glowing 'neath the pale moonlight I look around, there's not a soul in sight and I'm walkin' home Once again I hear my mother's voice and all us kids making a bunch of noise If I'm not careful I might start to cry Just walkin' home tonight" and The Way I Should "And it's true that I don't work near as hard as you tell me that I'm supposed to I don't run as fast as I could but I live just the way I want to and that's the way I should" Iris also played a Lefty Frizzell song but I can't remember which one. She finished the evening with Let The Mystery Be, Our Town, I Still Miss Someone (J. Cash) and Keep On The Sunny Side (Carter Family). It was a great quiet evening of good songs. One line that stuck with me but one that I don't know which song it is from is "You make me feel like the place where I come from". Good songs have a way of making me see the world differently - sometimes when I hear a great line it's like my perspective changes. I would love to be able to write them.

Posted by songdawg at 10:43 PM | Concerts

January 30, 2004

Marshall Lawrence CD Release Party

The Marshall Lawrence CD release party for "Where's The Party" will be at the SideTrack Cafe on April 8th!

Posted by songdawg at 10:30 PM | Concerts

January 18, 2004

NBCMS Open Road concert

The NBCMS Open Road concert was a great show - the house was packed and lively. It was a great way to kick off the bluegrass concert season. Pat was the Emcee and did a great job introducing the bands and was sweet enough to announce our Wildwood Flower event next Saturday. Edmonton's very own Black Lightning Bluegrass Band opened the show. Kayla photographing Open Road. Caleb Roberts (mandolin player) would ham it up and give her a great big goofy smile everytime he say her snapping shots. Open Road played two sets with a great mix of songs from their Cold Wind cd and songs from their upcoming cd. They are a very solid band and Bradford Lee Folk's (guitar player) vocal style is quite unique and in my opinion makes the band. You can check them out at : http://www.openroadbluegrass.com

Posted by songdawg at 1:40 PM | Concerts

January 15, 2004

Open Road

Last night I bought tickets to go see Open Road on Saturday, January 17th at the Provincial Museum. For more info check out the NBCMS website. I borrowed their cd Cold Wind from the library and loved it especially the songs "Some Things Does, Some Things Don't" and "Hard Times". Of course I am dragging my favourite blues guitarist there, hopefully he'll make it through the evening of bluegrass without to much hardship.

Posted by songdawg at 7:46 AM | Concerts

December 30, 2003

Capital City Jammers

I went to the Capital City Jammers open stage last night at the Royal Canadian Legion on Kingsway Ave. There were quite a few people from the bluegrass club there as well as a lot of country players. Its a combination of open stage and jamming - there's a stage where people go up a play a couple of songs each (there were over 30 people signed up). There's also a small dance floor, saw a few couples waltzing to some of the old country ballads. Then there is a semi-circle of musicians playing along to the people performing. The average age most be 55-60 and a lot of the folks are retired. Al, Erin and Sheila went up and played Foggy Mountain Breakdown - what a talented family - they looked and sounded great up there. Then Jeannette, Sheila, Don and myself played "Sitting Alone In the Moonlight", "Your Love is Like a Flower" and "The Road Into Town". It was OK, I am still getting used to having my own mic - I much prefer an omni mic, it seems easier to get the harmonies right. Practice I guess. Then part of the Sinclair clan went up and sang a few. Nice harmonies. It was a good night even though it went a little late for my taste - I couldn't seem to get the momentum to leave which gave me a good chance to catch up with some of the people from the club. I think it'll be a long day at work.

Posted by songdawg at 7:32 AM | Comments (3) | Concerts

December 1, 2003

Homefest 2003

We went to HomeFest 2003 in support of raising funds for The Winter Emergency Fund. There was a great lineup: Down To The Wood, Maria Dunn, Rob Heath, Bob Jahrig, Karla Anderson, Dale Ladouceur, Terry McDade, Laura Vinson and emceed by Lionel Rault. Dale Ladouceur on the Chapman Stick Marian Dunn on accordeon, Laura Vinson on guitar, Dale Ladouceur on Chapman stick. I realy like Laura's songwriting - she sang a song about being one paycheck from homeless, also a song about YellowHead who was one of her ancestors (at first I thought they were singing tit'Jean but what they were saying is Tete Jaune), and a catchy tune about Louis Riel. There was also an open stage across the street. Here are Marc Ladouceur and Anna Sommerville playing some of Anna's beautiful songs (I especially liked "Secret City"). We spent the last half at the open stage so we didn't catch all of the concert acts but it was a nice evening. I hope they raised lots of money.

Posted by songdawg at 7:32 AM | Concerts

November 30, 2003

Me, Myself, I

Saw a performance by Joan Armatrading last week on the Detroit Public Television station. I had no idea what she actually looked like but that voice - one of a kind. All day the song Me, Myself, I keeps running through my head. Joan has a new album called "Lover's Speak". Check it out they have lots of full clips. Bought tickets to see Ramblin' Jack Elliott presented by Folkways Alive on March 13/04. After rehearsal this afternoon I am meeting J-Bird at Homefest 2003. I am looking forward to seeing Laura Vinson perform. And it's all for a good cause.

Posted by songdawg at 9:24 AM | Concerts

November 2, 2003

David Francey

The Northern Lights Folk Club presented David Francey at The Arden Theatre last night. Dave Clarke started the evening with some of his guitar compositions: very beautiful and tasty. Dave Clarke David Francey started his set with "Paper Boy" and played a good mix of songs from all of his albums. It was amazing how people would hoot and holler when they recognized a song by the opening chords. Which to me means that David Francey is a singer-songwriter superstar. Or well on his way anyways. The Arden was packed and the audience very appreciative. Of course the crowd sang along, it wouldn't be a Francey concert with no crowd participation. For the encore David played a touching tribute song called ?Heavy Load? to a women who passed away this past year in Edmonton. David Francey and Dave Clarke I enjoyed David's fine songs and Dave Clarke's fabulous guitar playing and harmonies. But what made the evening was his storytelling. Before every song, David would tell a story about the song: where he wrote it, what inspired him, what the song is about. It was a great concert. So many musicians are covering his songs. At the Full Moon Folk Club, Ruth Moody of the Wailing Jennys performed a haunting rendition of Brakeman's Daughter. Del McCoury performs a rousing version of Mill Towns on his newest album ?It's Just the Night?. There are many more of course and they are listed on his site. I left and drove to J-bird's birthday party where we jammed until early in the morning (2:00am ? that's early for me). The songs never stopped flowing - it was great. The WildWood Flowers made an appearance. I even sang my version of ?Firewater? by Penny Lang while J-bird played it and sang harmony. It was a great musical evening ? I feel so full! Streets of Edmonton at 2:30am. Yup, that is snow.

Posted by songdawg at 12:02 PM | Concerts

October 30, 2003

Wyrd Sisters aaaaaaah!

I saw the Wyrd Sisters in the 90s at the Red Dog Tavern in Peterborough. Even though I didn't have very much money I bought "Inside the Dreaming". I have since listened to that cd hundreds of times. I could always count on it for comfort/release/pickmeup. But I put it away and haven't listened to it in a long time and haven't kept up with what they are doing. They were playing at The Arden tonight and I braved the freezing temperatures (low of -15 expected - crazy I know!) to check it out. It started out with Kim hoping that by the end of the evening we would be feeling like riiiipe, fuuuulll, bursting pears and they would do their best to wash us over with warm and luscious feelings. I am obviously paraphrasing, she was much sexier and eloquent. Kiva (keys), Kim Baryluk(lead vocals), Sunny Breaks (bass), Julene Gravett (drums) and Lindsay Jane (guitar). To say that I enjoyed the concert is an understatement. They are all very fine musicians - very tasty. Kim is the High Priestess of singer-songwriters, Lindsay Jane was a treat to hear, Julene's drum solo was the best I have ever heard (usually the drummer loses my attention within 5 seconds - but she was interesting), Kiva's overtones were out of this world (I had never heard anything like it - very cool), and Sunny was holding it down oh so melodically on her 5 string bass. Their harmonies of course are undescribable but I will try - beautiful, rich, enveloping. Check out their site for sound clips to hear more. It was an exceptional evening, I did leave feeling much better. On the ride home I did a lot of thinking and came to a few conclusions: I listen to too much music by men and not enough by women I have been too hard and I want to try to be softer One of my blessings has been the women I sing and play music with Sooooo I want to: Cool it a little on the high lonesome bluegrass sound and listen to more delicious earthy music such as Joan Armatrading, Wyrd Sisters, Rory Block, Penny Lang, Laura Love, Aretha Franklin, Sweet Honey On the Rock, The Pretenders, The Wailin Jennys, Joni Mitchell. Any suggestions? Please add a comment below. Get a handle on my allergies. Not sure how I'll go about it. Hopefully it'll come to me cause they are cramping my style. Sing and play bass more - a lot more. Meditate a little more, exercise a little more and eat better. Practice more Loving Kindness: May All Beings be well, comfortable, peaceful and happy. If my mom had been with me it would have been a perfect evening.

Posted by songdawg at 11:41 PM | Comments (2) | Concerts

October 26, 2003

Eric and Leon Bibb

Went to see Eric an Leon Bibb last night at The Arden. Feel the luv

Posted by songdawg at 8:53 AM | Concerts

October 25, 2003

Wailin' Jennys

I went to see The Wailin' Jennys last night presented by the Full Moon Folk Club. I had procrastinated in buying a ticket and when I got to the Strathcona Legion I found out that they were sold out! Good for the FMFC and the Jennys but bad for me. Luckily a few seconds later someone had an extra to sell. I had been looking forward to seeing the Jennys again - the last time was at Blue Skies a couple of summers ago. So I was in and the place was packed and jumping! I found a seat beside Fred and Ron on sound so got a great seat. With those two there I knew the sound was going to be great (it was). The opening act was a band called Nothin' But Trouble from Calgary. They played fun, original and clever songs like Pretty Girls, I Faked It and Pick Up Truck. Pick Up Truck chorus I'm gonna trade in my fella and buy me a pickup truck. I've tried so hard with my fella but I just had me no luck. If I'm gonna be taken for a ride I rather be on the driver's side. I'm gonna trade in my fella and buy me a pickup truck. They were great and got the crowd going. At the intermission, I overheard someone say that they hoped the next act was good cause they were gonna have to work to top that. No problem for the Jennys. They were wonderful. Beautiful voices, solid harmonies, great songs and accomplished musicianship. I just kicked back and soaked up the lush siren vibe. I was kind of hoping I would win the 50/50 draw so that I could buy all their cds. They each have solo projects which I am sure are also amazing. At one point in the show they were asking for the names of great Edmonton restaurants. After the show I gave them a card with Bua Thai's address (link is to a restaurant review by Stuart Adams!) and Allegro's Italian Kitchen address, my two favourite restaurants. Oh, I should of mentioned Whole In the Wall too. Anyways, it was a wonderful evening of music. I am so glad I didn't miss it. One of my favourite concerts of the year.

Posted by songdawg at 10:34 AM | Concerts

October 18, 2003

Zubot & Dawson

Went to see Zubot & Dawson last night at the Arden Theatre in St Albert. I saw them there last year and really enjoyed them so I was hoping for a repeat on hearing some Strang aka "folk music that kicks ass". The evening started off with a set by Garnet Rogers. Steve Dawson playing some slide guitar. Love his shoes. Elliot Polsky is in the back on drums - keeping the groove and keeping it interesting with all of his percusive toys. Jesse Zubot on fiddle and mandolin. And Darren Paris on bass. Zubot doing some cool effects on his fiddle. The evening finished with a Garnet Rogers joining the boys and swapping a couple of tunes. It was a good evening. It didn't have the same energy as last year, much more mellow. I got to find out what kind of shoes that Dawson has - they are very cool - black leather with red flames.

Posted by songdawg at 11:11 AM | Concerts

October 16, 2003

Taking Bluegrass' Name in Vain

What does an Investment Banker playing the banjo sound like? Like an Investment Banker playing the banjo. I went to the concert expecting New Acoustic or Americana music which I love. They are all technically very good players but it was on the wonderbread side of jazz for my taste. I also think the sound could of used a ton more banjo in the mix and a lot less keys and drums. The only relationship to bluegrass or acoustic music was the fact that there was a banjo on stage. It's true that Bill Monroe was into experimenting, but this experiment has succeeding in shedding all acoustic roots and soul, which in my opinion kept the music grounded and interesting. Their new direction is just not my cup of tea.

Posted by songdawg at 9:00 PM | Concerts

October 11, 2003

John Reischman concert

Went with Jo to the John Reischman concert at Festival place. A lot of the bluegrass crowd was there ready to tap their feet and soak up some of Reischman's tasty licks. The Laws opened up with some beautiful songs. They are a husband and wife duo who are both songwriters and who have great harmonies. They were here for the Edmonton Folk Fest a couple of years back but unfortunately I missed them. They are just back from Texas and had some good stories to tell. Texans call their style "Yaaallternative!" John Reischman and the Jaybirds played two great sets. They play the smoothest, coolest bluegrass I have ever heard. Memorable songs for me include: "North Shore" where the banjo player Nick Hornbuckle played the tastiest banjo break, Susan Crowe's "Come with Me" and Trisha Gagnon's "Blackberry Bramble". The highlight for me was of course watching Trisha Gagnon perform. She is wonderful to watch and listen to. She has graciously said yes to my request for a lesson tomorrow. Hopefully she will be able to make time between preparing for tomorrow's performance at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove. Byron Myhre joined the group for the encore and played some twin fiddle with Greg Spatz. They finished off the evening with a beautiful rendition of "Indiana Firefly".

Posted by songdawg at 12:07 AM | Concerts

September 28, 2003

Buffy Sainte-Marie

When I heard that Buffy Sainte-Marie was playing I was ambivalent about going - I don't know much about her or her music. I knew she is a great song writer and a very political person. But to tell you the truth I am not that into the 60s folk thing and I kind of grouped her into that category. On my mom's urging I decided to go, I phoned in to Festival Place and ordered a ticket. The man who answered the phone was a little strange - well it was probably me. I haven't been clicking with people lately, feeling disconnected, grouchy, unkind, uncompassionate and impatient. I have no idea why but it just keeps creeping in. So after the phone conversation from hell, I sat back and tried to conjure up a little L&K (Love and Kindness that is. As in "May all beings be well, comfortable, peaceful and happy." By that way that includes you :) So I had some dinner and drove to Sherwood Park which is about a 25 minute drive from my house. The fall colours are out, very beautiful. Taken while I was driving there. So the concert started at 7:30pm and I got there in time to have a glass of white wine and read the program. My seat was a little squished but not bad for last minute. The house was packed. Buffy was amazing. She truly is a bigger than life person. Watching her perform made me feel like being a more generous, loving person. Her and her band performed for 90 minutes with no intermission. She played so many songs and since I am not familiar with most of her work I don't know all of the titles but a couple that struck me were "That's What Little Kids Do" (very sweet), "He's An Indian Cowboy In The Rodeo", "The Big Ones Get Away", "Fallen Angels", "Starwalker" and "Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee". I am very glad I went, she was lovely. The one unfortunate thing was that the sound wasn't very good and didn't do her or her band justice. Buffy mentioned that she has been very involved with the Cradleboard Teaching Project - Check it out at http://www.cradleboard.org

Posted by songdawg at 10:31 PM | Concerts

September 26, 2003

Bills at the Arden

After the portrait session - which by the way wasn't as painful as I thought it would be - I went to the Bill Hilly concert. I was about 15 minutes late. I was such a keener when I bought my ticket - I managed to get seat B15 which is of course in the exact middle of the row. Nice view but I had to disrupt 15 well-settled folks, including Jo V (Hi Jo, sorry about stepping on your toes). Well I avoided most people's feet except I might have broken one nice elderly gentleman's toes. I apologized profusely and grabbed my seat. It was a great show, they wowed the sold out crowd, which was comprised mostly of older folks (cause you know I love the ole folks music!). As I was walking out of the theatre at the end of the night, folks were buzzing "They are soooo talented", "I loved them, they are so versatile - from blues to jazz to folk, amazing". No kidding - guess these guys have got the right formula to make it on the Canadian scene. I wish them luck and hope they do. I took a bunch of photos - but since it was a low light situation and I didn't want to use my flash and disrupt (even more than I already had) the photos are a bit blurry. Chris Frye, Marc Atkinson, Glen Manders, Adrian Dolan Jeremy Penner, Adrian Dolan The many talents of Glen - he can play it... drum it... and bow it like an angel. I have to remember to email him the next time he's in town and ask for a lesson - he does cook. The Bills have a new site design, looks good Adrian. They are now on the Beard tour. Go to http://www.thebillhillyband.com/newsite/frameset.html and click on Beards. Scruffy.

Posted by songdawg at 10:22 PM | Concerts

The Bill Hilly Band

I have a ticket tonight to see the Bill Hilly Band - I have had lots of opps to see them (Blue Skies, Full Moon Folk Club, Calgary Folk Fest, Edmonton Folk Fest etc). And I like them so much I gladly bought a ticket to see them again - this time at The Arden Theatre. The bass player Glen Manders is outstanding - I have to confess that I am going mostly to watch him cause he kicks! Should be a great show.

Posted by songdawg at 8:51 AM | Concerts

September 25, 2003

Shakti Remembered

Shakti was mind blowing - Tikatikatik takatik. I don't know how to describe it - it wa just f@%$ing amazing.

We were sitting in the second row on the left - no need for binoculars. They were all sitting cross-legged on a platform including John McLaughlin who was on electric guitar and in fine form. (He also uses an oil on his left hand fingers for speed - M uses Finger-Ease sometimes). Zakir Hussain on tabla was magic.

U. Shrinivas was on electric mandolin - he looked like the youngest but also the sweetest - his playing was sweet and melodic and very beautiful. V. Selvaganesh on ghatam (clay pot) was fantastic - his solo (I don't know what else to call it) was incredible. The rest of the members were tapping their hands - 1st finger, 2nd finger, 3rd finger, 4th finger, clap hands, turn right hand and clap the back of it in the left palm, clap hands, turn right hand and clap the back of it in the left palm. They would do this throughout the song and it looked like it was some type of game or play - can anyone explain what they were doing?

Concert season has begun and I think it's going to be a stellar year!

Posted by songdawg at 7:45 AM | Concerts

Marshall Lawrence at the Sidetrack

Hey Folks,

If you are in the Edmonton area come and enjoy a fun filled evening of the blues. The Marshall Lawrence Band will be performing at the Sidetrack Cafe on Thursday September 25th (tonight).

Marshall Lawrence Band,
Sidetrack Cafe,
10333 112 Street,
Edmonton, AB.
Thursday, September 25
Start time: 9 pm.

Marshall's sound is a fierce brew of blues, rock, funk and soul-- a wild ride he calls "acid blues". Fueled by his unwaivering dedication to the blues and his instinctive need to wail, Marshall is setting the blues on fire. You can hear Marshall's burning, energetic style on his upcoming CD release "Where's The Party?". For sound clips visit his website at
www.doctorblues.com and click on "Sounds".

The show starts at 9 pm, hope to see you there.

Posted by songdawg at 7:16 AM | Concerts

August 15, 2003

August 15, 2003

Got our tickets for the World at Winspear concert "Remember Shakti". Our seats are Orchestra Left Row A - yes that's right - Row A.

John McLaughlin's cool site.

Posted by songdawg at 5:15 PM | Concerts

May 26, 2003

Guy Clark

Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Joe Ely and Guy Clark Went to the Guy Clark, Lyle Lovett, Joe Ely, John Hiatt concert last night. It just reaffirmed to me how much I LOVE Guy Clark's songwriting - if I could write songs I would want them the have the same qualities. It was brilliant. Lyle Lovett was a wonderful performer - fun and with a great presence. I sat beside a couple from Austin who are travelling with Joe Ely - they work for a radio station down there similar to CKUA. I would love to visit Austin -so much good music has come from there - they said the best time would be in September for the Austin City Limits Music Fest. Maybe some day. Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Joe Ely and Guy Clark

Posted by songdawg at 7:01 AM | Comments (4) | Concerts

May 14, 2003

May 14

We went to see La Bottine Souriante at the Winspear Centre. We had our 'usual' great seats. Usually the atmosphere is a little on the stuffy side and it takes until the second set for people to loosen up. Not when there's a bunch of Francos in the crowd! The place was hopping from the first song. It was a blast. It had me thinking of the French Canadian band I want to start in a couple years...

Posted by songdawg at 11:21 PM | Concerts

May 10, 2003

May 10, 2003 - Down To The Wood

We went to see Down To The Wood perform last night at the Uptown Folk Club. They are a great local bluegrass band. It was inspiring to watch, our band has such a long way to go. DTTW are currently recording their first album, I am looking forward to hearing it.

Posted by songdawg at 9:10 AM | Concerts

April 21, 2003

Weekend Update

I had a great musical weekend. On Friday I went with Sheila to the Uptown Folk Club Open Stage, we played Blue Ridge Cabin Home, Sittin Alone in the Moolight and FireBall Mail. Terry Knutsen and Jim came up with us, they are fabulous players. It's good to always invite better players than you to play with, it helps you sound better! Marshall went up with Charles Weaver - they did an acoustic folk/blues thing with guitar and mandolin - it was great.

On Saturday, Marshall and I went to the Northern Lights Folk Club to see Maria Dunn and David Ward. Great concert! Marshall particularly like David's songs, I really like Maria's song writing.

On Sunday we went with Anna and George (my in-laws) to the Bavern Schmaus (spelling?), its an austrian/german restaurant. Not the greatest variety for someone who is allergic to eggs and pork but the cook whipped up an excellent chicken dish for me. Everyone else had schnizel with dumplings. It was great to hear them talk about when they met and some of the adventures they had. They are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this summer.

We had an appointment to get our furnace checked at 3:30pm today, it's been a little troublesome. The guy didn't arrive until 6:15, it's almost 10pm and the guy is still not done! He had to run out to get a part. And it's going to cost us $380 plus the extra labour. Maybe we should have gotten a second opinion cause we have no idea if we are being taken for a ride. This company is the company that installed the furnace originally so they should know what they are doing. But I don't have the greatest feeling about it. Hope it turns out well.

Posted by songdawg at 10:00 PM | Concerts | WildWood Flower