Sunday, December 14, 2008

MÉLISSA LAVEAUX AND MARIE-JOSÉE HOULE @ ZAPHOD’S – DEC. 28


PRESS RELEASE - December 12
Ottawa, ON

TRAVEL BUGS AND BROKEN TRADITIONS BY THE DUALLY DISPLACED

Mélissa Laveaux and Marie-Josée Houle defy the "same old" and the been-done" at home and at large

Mélissa Laveaux returns home with a French-signed (NoFormat!) and major-distributed (Universal France) CD that will only be available in her home country for one night of unfettered alt acoustic blues-folk alongside Marie-Josée Houle, Ottawa's sultry songstress of the accordion and Scandinavian tours.

Laveaux has made Paris her new home, and the world her oyster, traveling to destinations (Switzerland, Japan, Mexico and France) facilitated by booking agency 3DFamily (Tony Allen, K'Naan, Bonga, Omara Portuondo...).

Recording a definite upgrade from her self-produced debut in Toronto and in France, Mélissa Laveaux’s recently released disc is highly praised by smitten French critics, while leaving them at a loss, as the label's "world music" and "folk" hardly encompass the realm of musical expression.

Losing the cheque meant to pay for piano lessons at 6 years old eventually meant that Mélissa Laveaux, a self-taught guitarist and singer-songwriter, would always lack the discipline to follow structure and traditions in music. Years spent polishing exotic and eclectic playlists on community radio help her forge her instinctive approach to music. She's noted for her distinct percussive bassline fingerstyle guitar technique, a wet breathy raucous voice and unwonted lyricism.

Garnering some attention from local and national media (CBC, SRC) and music institutions (Ontario Council of Folk Festivals, Montreal International Jazz Festival, Canada Council for the Arts) with a self-produced debut LP , she is picked up by French indie label NoFormat through her Myspace in 2007. Known for its eclectic catalogue (Gonzales, Mamani Keita and Nicolas Repac), the label sees Laveaux as a smart addition to their limited roster. Their interpretation of Laveaux's Camphor and Copper includes two creative covers (Elliot Smith's "Needle in the Hay" and Eartha Kitt's "I Wanna be Evil") atop of Laveaux's own repertoire - composed of original pieces of an impressive maturity and freshness. Her voice, alone, unfurls majestic and fragile, profound and sensual, furrowed with deep stirring under the immediate seduction, almost reworked and rearranged by the ever-present languages in her life: the fluidity of the English, the nonchalant syncopation of the Kreyol, and the harmonic sophistication of the French.

Email: melissa@melissalaveaux.com

http://www.myspace.com/melissalaveaux


In October, Marie-Josée Houle released another critically acclaimed CD [Monsters] that also defies all categorization, showcasing a writing style often compared to that of Tom Waits and Nick Cave. On Sunday, December 28th, Mélissa Laveaux shares a double bill with Marie-Josée Houle at Zaphod's Nightclub, where each lady will play some maturing and some newly-written polyglotted compositions, each using traditional instruments and happily breaking the stereotypes bound to them.

Born in Val d‘Or, Quebec, and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, Marie-Josée celebrates her dual cultural roots through music. Singing and writing in both English and French, she brings the Townships to the Prairies and beyond by combining her classical, punk rock, and French cabaret sensibilities into one sultry stew of sound. Her musical history is as varied as her hair colour. Classically trained on the accordion at age five, she chose other instruments as the medium to first deliver music to the masses.

In 2000, she took up the electric bass and saxophone in order to form two very eclectic projects in Edmonton. Her reconnection with the accordion coincided with a move to Ottawa in 2003 and culminated in the world music collaboration whose success - including a performance at the 2005 Ottawa Folk Music Festival – served as a springboard for her solo work.

In a span of three years, Marie-Josée Houle relentlessly toured Canada and Europe and released two critically acclaimed solo albums, each receiving a Best Folk Album nomination by the Ottawa XPress alongside local folk sensations Jim Bryson and Kathleen Edwards. Both albums charted and received solid airplay on local college and community radio stations in Canada, the US, Belgium, France, Norway and the UK.

Email: marie-josee@uglysocks.com

http://www.myspace.com/mariejoseehoule

http://www.uglysocks.com


Mélissa Laveaux & Marie-Josée Houle double bill

Sunday, December 28, 2008 - 8 pm
Zaphod's
27 York St. [Byward Market]
Ottawa, ON, Canada
$8 cover


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Saturday, December 13, 2008

TRUE NORTH RECORDS PRESENTS "THE CANADIAN SONGBOOK"




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8TH EDITION OF VIRÉE BLUES BORÉALE CLOSES WITH ROSY BLUES BAND


The 8th edition of Virée Blues Boréale comes to a close

Already 8 editions completed: that is over 70 shows, to over 7000 loyal Blues fans! But what is Virée Blues Boréale’s management coming up with this time ... ? Lots of new things with the first Blues Woman to perform on stage at Virée Blues Boréale, with her loyal band which, as the rumor goes, would also act as Carl Tremblay’s band ...

Imagine: the stage, the lights to heat up the atmosphere, the audience applauds ... When the show begins, they’re in their element! The guitar introduces the first notes amplified by the joy of renewing with the so pleasant sounds of the Blues. The drums and bass guitar sink in to complement with their solid beat the themes that modern Blues aficionados as well as nostalgics will recognize right away. The voice comes in to intensify the soul of the Blues and carries us into that different universe which we’re always so happy to rediscover.

The Rosy Blues Band is:

Rosanne 'Rosy' Bissonette, the woman, the voice, the strength, the mainstay of the group. Her raw voice, typical of the Blues, gets us traveling on every air and takes us on the wings of her lyric flights. Born in St-Roch-sur-Richelieu in 1982, Rosy started her musical career studying classical piano. She then shifted to vocal performance taught by renowned teachers.

Carl Dutremble, guitar, expert at the Blues that he discovered at the same time as his passion for the guitar was born in Sorel in 1981. Carl started on drums at 12. A great fan of «alternative» music (Pearl Jam, Nirvana, ... ) , he practiced on drums till 17. The guitar finally appealed to him and led him to choose the Blues' great adventure. Listening to recordings by Stevie Ray Vaughan, Kenny Wayne Sheppard and Joe Bonnamassa, Carl improved his mastery of the guitar. His lively rock flavored guitar skills touch the hearts of the many age groups that make up the blues and rock fans. With his classic Stratocaster as well as his flashy” Flying V", without forgetting his favorite, the exotic "Gigliotti", Carl offers a rich and varied sound.

Mario Couture, the bass player, is the fusion of the group’s influences; his roots are into jazz while his heart leans toward funk. Born in Sorel in 1979, Mario started on the electric bass guitar by the age of 14. He also opens up to the world of jazz and improves his playing with jazz and funk that will help him perfect his performance, rhythmic and melodic. Jaco Pastorius, Rocco Prestia and Les Claypool are still his most notorious influences. Versatility motivates his many musical quests. He sometimes even performs with still active stars from the 60s like Patrick Zabé, Guy Harvey from les Gendarmes, Simon from Les Lutins, Jenny Rock, Maxime Farago, Claire Lepage, Eddy Roy from Les Belairs, Jacques Salvail and we also care to mention the late Dino Lespérance from César et les Romains.

Stéphane Jetté, the drummer, is the driving force behind this happening; he offers all of the group the cohesion of his rhythms. Last to join the group, his definite talent came as a seal to Rosy Blues Band. This group which pleased so many on its last appearance at Virée Blues Boréale, promises another explosive, electrifying evening and full of surprises.

The Rosy Blues Band invites you to Virée Blues Boréale, on Wednesday, December 17, 2008, at 8h00 p.m. at Cafe Le Troquet, 41 Laval Street, in the Old Hull sector of Gatineau, PQ.

For inquiries or interviews, please contact Alexandre Petit at: vireeblues@gmail.com.

Further information on our artists can be found at: www.rosybluesband.com.

You should also visit our own site at: www.myspace.com/vireeblues for links to our guests’ sites and for lots of other interesting information.

We also would like to request your help to support an all-new radio station which may become a future partner of Virée Blues Boréale, DAWG FM.

This Outaouais 100% Blues radio is now requesting a licence from the CRTC. “Facebookers” can support by joining the DAWG FM group. Everyone else can send us an identified (name, address, e-mail or phone) message of support at vireeblues@gmail.com and we will gladly pass it on to the appropriate persons.

For more information on DAWG FM's proposed radio licence, read Todd Bernard's message below:

Hi, all.

This is a reminder asking you to please help us convince the CRTC to uphold its decision from August 26th, when it licensed Torres Media Ottawa Inc. to start Canada's first Blues FM radio station here in Ottawa.

One of the competing applicants from our Ottawa hearings successfully petitioned the federal government, based largely on the Official Languages Act, to have the decision returned to the CRTC for "reconsideration and hearing."

This is bad news. It means we could lose our license and Canada could lose its first Blues radio station.

Please help us keep our license and bring Canada its first Blues format FM radio station by completing the attached support letter. You just need to fill in your name, address, telephone/ email, and date at the top. Then type your name at the bottom. It takes a couple of minutes at most.

Once you've completed the letter, please send it to the following recipients:

1. ftorres@skywords.com
2. CRTC complaints: http://www.crtc.gc.ca/RapidsCCM/Register.asp?lang=E
3. Minister of Heritage: Moore.J@parl.gc.ca
4. Deputy Minister of Heritage: judith_a_larocque@pch.gc.ca
5. Minister for Industry: Minister.Industry@ic.gc.ca

If you have already done this – thanks very kindly for your support. If you have not as of yet, please do so A.S.A.P. The matter is currently before the CRTC for reconsideration, and time is of the essence.

Thanks everyone for your help!

Todd Bernard
G.M. Ottawa Division
Skywords
(613) 521-7543 office
(613) 521-0823 fax
tbernard@skywords.com


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Sunday, November 30, 2008

DAVID FRANCEY WINS SOCAN FOLK MUSIC AWARD!



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CRAIG WERTH RELEASES SIDEVIEW CD






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DAWN LANGSTROTH WRAPS UP TOUR @ CENTREPOINT THEATRE (OTTAWA)



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47 RECORDS PRESENTS FEELS REAL STRONG BY THE GARY KENDALL BAND




Gary Kendall is available for interviews in person or by phone at your convenience.
Contact info: gken@look.ca
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Friday, November 28, 2008

SAVE DAWG FM (SPECIAL BULLETIN)


Canada’s first ALL BLUES radio station is in Jeopardy!! We need your Help!

On November 21 the Conservative Cabinet sent our licence back to the CRTC for reconsideration and hearing. The Government decided that the decision "derogated" from the Broadcast Act. The decision was appealed by a group that was applying for a French-language community station at the same hearing. The CRTC decided that our application was more in the public's best interest than was their application. Now the government has stepped in.

DEROGATE!!!!!

We only committed to exposing hundreds of Canadian Blues Artists that get airplay in the U.S. but not in Canada. We committed to give 3 quarters of a million dollars to Canadian Content Development, including creating a Blues music series at Canadian Music Week, supporting the Ottawa Blues Society and the Blues in Schools programs that give kids that can't afford instruments a chance to play music. Not to mention we were going to employ 20 people in Ottawa and spend over 1 million dollars in our first year of operations in the local economy.

We committed to play 40% Canadian content, 5% more than any other [commercial] station in Ottawa currently plays. But it's easy to target the only stand alone independent radio station in Ottawa.

So we need your help. We need your support, we need the support of your friends and anyone else that loves Blues music and justice.

1. Send us your email support via Facebook;

2. Send the Minister of Heritage and Official Languages a letter supporting our licence - his email is Moore.J@parl.gc.ca;

3. Send the same letter to the CRTC under "complaints" http://www.crtc.gc.ca/RapidsCCM/Register.asp?lang=E.

4. Send the same letter to the Minister for Industry - Minister.Industry@ic.gc.ca.

5. Send us the same letter via Facebook.

6. Send it to your local politicians or anyone that will listen.

7. Get all of your friends to join this group.

Thanks for all of your support; together we can come through this.....keep the faith.



Ed Torres
General Manager
SkyWords Radio
Canada's Source for Radio Content
95 Royal Crest Court Unit 5
Markham, ON L3R 9X5
Tel: 905-470-7655 ext. 120
Fax: 905-470-1655
etorres@skywords.com


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Sunday, November 02, 2008

"IRON MAIDENS" SEEKING HELP FOR CKCU 93.1 FM FUNDING DRIVE
Ottawa campus/community/internet radio station CKCU 93.1 FM's "Iron Maidens" is a program giving exposure to (for the most part, unknown) female musicians and/or composers from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and around the world. It airs on Wednesdays, from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. EST. Week 2 of "Iron Maidens" funding drive is on Wed., Nov. 5.
I would greatly appreciate any support you can provide in the form of a financial donation, big or small. Donations can be pledged at any time, 24/7, and payment can be in the form of a cheque, for which you will be issued an invoice (and, upon payment, a tax receipt for donations over $35).
Donations can also be paid for in cash (by dropping it off at the radio station at Carleton University) or by credit card. You can make a donation pledge by calling the station at 613-520-3920 or toll-free at 1-877-520-3920 or filling out an online pledge form at www.ckcufm.com.
You can also pledge your support by sending an email to ddrocker@yahoo.com, stating your name, mailing address, the amount of your pledge, and method of payment. An invoice will be mailed to you from CKCU 93.1 FM.
Apart from four or five paid administrative and technical staff, the station, which launched its initial open-circuit broadcast on November 14, 1975, with Joni Mitchell's "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio", is run totally by volunteer (over 200 in total) show producers/hosts and other assistants, and receives bare-bones funding towards operating costs. Remaining expenditures are solicited once a year from the general listening public and supporting members of the local and global music community.
"Iron Maidens" was launched in September 2007 and is one of the newer programs on the station. The format includes all genres of music (folk, blues, rock, funk, reggae, classical, world music, etc.), regardless of geographic or linguistic origin. The only restriction for this particular program is that the composers/recording artists be women (with the exception of musical groups comprised of both women and men).
If you have received promotion or publicity for your music or other artistic endeavours (on-air and/or through my websites/blog) over the last eight years or so from current "Iron Maidens" and former "Patchwork Blues" producer-host D.D. Rocker (a.k.a. Misty Blue and Red Queen 17), your reciprocal support would be greatly appreciated at this time.
Of course, any one else who is interested in supporting my volunteer ventures in promoting music and art, in general, is also welcome to do so.
Check out the other great shows on CKCU 93.1 FM, as well - there is something for everyone!
Yours truly,
D.M. Wells
"Rockin' the Blues from Canada - www.geocities.com/irocktheblues
Nov. 2/08
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EPILEPY OTTAWA - PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING - MONDAY, NOV. 3



Topic: Epilepsy and Non-Pharmacological Treatments

Speaker: Dr. Erick Sell, MD and Neurologist at CHEO

Date: Monday, 3 November 2008

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Location: Bronson Centre, 211 Bronson Avenue, Room 221
(Room number subject to change, so please check notice board
in main foyer when you come in)


'Hope you are able to attend.


For more information, contact the Epilepsy Ottawa-Carleton office at 613-594-9255.


Epilepsy Ottawa-Carleton is a local non-profit organization providing support and information meetings for people with epilepsy, their families, friends and the general public.
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Sunday, October 26, 2008

WASHINGTON BLUE SOCIETY - POST-HALLOWEEN & NOV. BLUES BASH



NEW LOCATION FOR THE HALLOWEEN PARTY

This is a reminder that the Washington Blues Society (WBS) is having an after-Halloween party on Saturday, November 1st, at the Salmon Bay Eagles Club, located at 5216 20TH Ave. NW in Ballard, WA, from 8:30 – 12:30 pm. All members and guests are welcome. It will be downstairs and features Jeff and the Jet City Flyers.


The November Blues Bash will be at the Red Crane Restaurant at Club Hollywood on November 11th at 7 pm. So far, I know that Son Jack Jr. is playing acoustic, and I will send a reminder later with the other information.
Also, please remember that we will not have a usual Blues Bash in December. Instead, we will have a holiday party on December 14th at the Club Hollywood in Shoreline, WA. I will send reminders later with more info.
See you there,
Joy Kelly – Membership
Washington Blues Society
Seattle, WA
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Saturday, October 25, 2008

WIN A RECORDING DEAL @ SUPER JAM CONTEST (ROUND 2, WEEK 3)


Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 2:00pm - 7:00pm

McGradies Tap & Grill

Victoria Park, Just North of Ellesmere/ South of 401.

Toronto, ON

Contact Info: 4164491212


We are giving more chances to Win a Record Deal Package... Now Awarding 1st, 2nd, & 3rd. Trophies.. Trade two 3rds. for a Second,, Trade two 2nds for a First , and now you're in the Monthly Semis.... Gotta love it.

This week's celebrity spotlight performer, from the band Harvest (not just Neil), Dan Walek. We are honoured to give up the stage to Dan, for your listening pleasure. Don't miss this event!!


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ANAIS OF FRANCE RELEASES NEW SINGLE, "I LOVE YOU"


Hello, everyone.

I’m writing to let you know Anaïs’s new single, “ i love you”, is now up on Myspace at:

www.myspace.com/anaisinyourface

The new album, produced by DAN THE AUTOMATOR (GORILLAZ), is scheduled for digital release on november 3rd and physically on november 10th in France. A tour will then take place in 2009.

For more information, contact jerome@tsk-music.com.

Best,


Jerome

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MARIE-JOSEE HOULE NOMINATED IN OTTAWA XPRESS 'BEST OF' POLL


Yes, that time of year is upon us again! It's that special time when the leaves turn, you start seeing your breath on your way to work, and you are asked to vote in the Ottawa XPress 'Best Of' Poll.

It was just before stepping onto the stage [at the NAC 4th stage] last night at my CD release show that I was informed that I had received a nomination! I'm so flattered that my new release, Monsters, is nominated for "Best Folk EP of 2008"! And, once again, I find myself among other really great local musicians such as Kathleen Edwards and The Habit. The nomination itself is very flattering!

I'm not asking you to vote for me (well, kinda), but more importantly, to just take part in the poll! There are other musicians of note I'd like to highlight, such as my friends, Evil Farm Children and Sadie Hell, who were nominated for "Best Punk EP" and "Best New Band", respectively.

The link is at: http://www.ottawaxpress.ca/dossier/bestof/xpress2008.aspx. The deadline to submit your vote is Wednesday, November 5, at 11:59 p.m.

We live in a great city! It's time to celebrate what Ottawa has to offer in terms of eats, music, theatre, literature and art! And, many thanks for your support!


Marie-Josée
xx

www.myspace.com/mariejoseehoule
www.uglysocks.com


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GARY 17's OPEN JAM TO FEATURE THE McDALES - SUN., OCT. 26


Do or die with The McDales at my open stage Sun., Oct. 26

I’m really hoping that this Sunday’s feature at my evening open stage at Gabby’s Bistro brings in some audience and more performers, because otherwise it will be the last one.

The club owner is very new to live entertainment and doesn’t realize that these events take time to build, so told me last night that if we don’t get a good turnout this week for the 8 pm-1 am show that he’ll be canceling it.

Fortunately we have a feature showcase that should make it worth your while to come out and enjoy an intimate atmosphere with good food, reasonably-priced drinks and decent sound. That’d be The McDales - Herb Dale and Fran McCann, who’ve been out a couple of times already and who say the room is very much to their liking. Their set will start at 10 pm.

As always I’ll have a house guitar and 49-key polyphonic keyboard (with full-size keys) available for performers who wish to use them. And between live action sets, I’ll be spinning tracks by local and Canadian singer-songwriters and bands – the people that you actually know and love!

The club is located at 383 Eglinton Ave. E., three blocks east of Mount Pleasant (in Toronto), and it’s easily accessible by TTC from Eglinton Station, where the Lawrence East, Eglinton East, Flemington Park, and several other buses all pass by (get off at the first stop east of Mount Pleasant) – and buses run 24 hours along this route!

I really hope to see you there this week or I won’t be seeing you there at all!



Gary 17
Publisher & Editor, to-nite magazine
http://to-nite.bigsmokemusic.com
Tel: 416-424-1743

Hear my radio show, "Open Season", at www.radiothatdoesntsuck.com.

On Facebook: Gary Therealgaryseventeen-- hear Gary 17 songs on My Band tab!


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BECKI SUE & HER BIG ROCKIN' DADDIES! - UPCOMING GIGS (OCT. 25 & 31)


Hey, Blues Fans!

Becki Sue & her Big Rockin' Daddies! will be in Anacortes , WA, at the Rockfish Grill this Saturday night, October 25, from 9-midnight. This place has great food and beer. Please come and check us out at one of our favorite places! http://www.anacortesrockfish.com/

ALERT: Friday, October 31...Halloween night at THE ADLIB IN KENT. Big Costume Party with Becki Sue & her Big Rockin' Daddies! 9pm 9pm http://www.myspace.com/ad_libbarandgrille


www.bigrockindaddies.com
www.myspace.com/bigrockindaddies


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RITA CHIARELLI NOMINATED FOR CANADIAN FOLK MUSIC AWARDS


hello everyone.... a couple of things i want to share....this past week I was nominated in the 'CANADIAN FOLK MUSIC AWARDS'"...contemporary vocalist of the year"...and "ensemble of the year"...this with the THUNDER BAY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA...for our recording...UPTOWN GOES DOWNTOWN...also i've been asked to perform at the awards....this year they are held in ST. JOHN'S [NL] on november 23rd...! and ......here is the info of my B.C. tour...please spread the word...!...thank you folks...'til soon...rita

[Late posting - only one date left on the B.C. tour - D.D.]:

10.25.08 (Saturday)

REM Lee Theatre
4920 Staurne Ave
Terrace, BC

Doors: 7:30 PM Start: 8:00 PM

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DETOUR @ McGRADIES (TORONTO, ON) - SAT., NOV. 1

"DETOUR" @ McGradies"

A brand new Rock & Blues Band


Saturday, November 1, 2008, at 9:30 pm

McGradies Tap & Grill

Victoria Park, just north of Ellesmere (south of Hwy. 401)

Toronto, ON

Contact Info: 416-449-1212

Detour - a brand-new Rock & Blues Band put together by Adam O'Connor of Rumbleseat. Showcasing his New Band!! With Fellow bandmates, Joe Abbott & Shawn Steinhart.


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ANDY O'CONNOR'S ANNIVERSARY/BIRTHDAY JAM - HAPPY'S B & G -OCT. 25



35 yr Anniversary Party, 57 yrs Birthday Party
"An Open Jam - come Celebrate with Diane & Andy"
Saturday, October 25, at 9:30 pm
Happy's Bar & Grill
N/E Corner of Brownsline and Horner
Etobicoke, ON

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Friday, October 24, 2008

MANDRAKE ROOT @ ATOMIC ROOSTER ON HALLOWEEN NIGHT (OCT. 31)
Mandrake Root

Friday, October 31 - Halloween Party - 9:30 p.m.
The Atomic Rooster

303 Bank St. (between Somerset and MacLaren Sts.)
Ottawa, ON

No Cover!
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WITCHES IN BIKINIS - TIME FOR SOME HALLOWEEN FUN!




UPCOMING GIGS:
NYC Halloween Parade - Fri., Oct 31 - Our own float! The organizers liked us so much last year that this time we'll be closer in the line-up to be on TV!!! NY1 - details to follow
IPO (International Pop Overthrow) Festival - Wed., Nov. 5, at 10:30 pm
@ Kenny's Castaways
This week we are shooting our first music video, thanks to Video City TV.

Links to WIB CDs

It's Halloween & you need some WIB CDs! Get them on CD Baby for $9.99 - discount if you buy two or more.
Also on iTunes - just search for us!
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THE CROSSROADS BOOK A HALLOWEEN TREAT FOR KIDS



GIVE YOUR YOUNG READERS A REAL TREAT THIS HALLOWEEN!

"An absorbing psychological thriller as well as a rip-roaring ghost story." —BOOKLIST STARRED REVIEW


NEW REVIEW JUST IN FROM SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL!

"A well-told ghost story with plenty of twists and chills. This riveting tale is written in short, easy-to-read chapters, making it a good choice for reluctant readers. Throughout the story, the main characters grow closer to one another and gain heroic traits while the "bad guys" reveal greater depths of wickedness and insanity. Readers will relate to Zack and enjoy the book's scare factor and adventure."


CHRIS'S FAVE RAVES...

"My mom and I have both read the book The Crossroads and think it is genius!!! We would like to make a suggestion... You should see about getting this book made into a movie! I personally thought that this was one of the best books that I have ever read, and I didn't want it to end. Maybe you could write more suspenseful adventures with Zach and Judy!" —Dawna's son

NOTE TO DAWNA'S SON: We took your advice! A Hollywood Producer just asked to option the book so he can turn it into a movie!


"Chris's book was great! Tell him it was amazing! Wonderful! And another great word that is more than spectacular! It was really scary too!" —Riley, Age 12 "I just wanted to actually tell Chris how much I loved his book! In 2 days I was finished! I have also been advertising his book to all my friends and even just from reading the back they were hooked! I am doing one of my book reports on it over the summer! HURRY UP AND MAKE THE 2ND!" —Maddie, Age 11





THE HANGING HILL


Look for THE HANGING HILL - a sequel to THE CROSSROADS - in August 2009 (just in time for next year's Halloween!)

Thanks for all your support!
Chris


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Thursday, October 23, 2008

GEORGE OLLIVER & GANGBUSTER @ JOHNNY B (WHITBY, ON) - OCT. 24


Hi, Everyone: Need your support on this one. I guarantee if you make the trip, it will be worth it. Thanks.


George Olliver

George Olliver & Gangbuster return to Durham Region on Fri., Oct. 24, to Johnny B, from 9 pm -1 am.

Johnny B
www.Johnnybclub.com
75 Consumers Drive
Whitby, ON L1N 9S2
(905) 666-7629


George will have an all-star cast of his band featuring Tony Padalino and Peter Mueller of "Canadian Idol" out for this special performance in his hometown of Whitby and will be turning on the steam for his fans in the area.

This beautiful and newly renovated 300-seat niteclub has hosted world-class bands like Dr. Hook, Johnny Winter and April Wine. This is George's 1st engagement at this great nitespot and he's starting early to let everyone know about this date, which is sure to be a blockbuster.

George and the boys are coming off a great summer of major festivals such as the Beaches Jazz Fest., Taste of the Kingsway, and the Pickering Jazz Fest (to name a few). Also George is cranked up because his new album has just won "Song of the Year" (MAJA AWARDS), "Album of the Year" (DRMS) and has been nominated by the COVENANT AWARDS for "Song and Album of the Year".

Don't miss this exciting show coming on the 24th of October to JOHNNY B in Whitby. Buy tickets on line @ http://www.ticketweb.ca/t3/sale/SaleEventDetail?dispatch=loadSelectionData&eventId=316674 or at the door.


Hunter-Hughes Prods.
Whitby, ON

www.georgeolliver.com


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POPA CHUBBY & GALEA TO RELEASE VICIOUS COUNTRY




Popa Chubby and his wife, Galea, have a brand new project coming out this month on Dixiefrog Records - Vicious Country!!!


Vicious Country features covers of Merle Haggard, Gene Vincent, Buck Owens, Hank III and more, and new originals from both Popa and Galea. For a sneak preview, check out the videos newly posted on YouTube.



The first is Straight To Hell. This starts all Louvin Brothers and quickly goes Hank Williams III. Yep, that's 3, not 2. Big difference. The next is Race With The Devil. Even Gene Vincent didn't give it the gas like this! Pedal to the metal. Popa is playing a few US dates and then off to Europe for this year's tour. Galea will join him for two exciting shows in Paris at the legendary Le Bataclan.



www.bluesweb.com


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TO-NITE MAGAZINE - ISSUE #422 - IN THE MAIL


Subscribers have already received the pages for this week’s to-nite magazine, #422, in their inboxes as jpg images. Here are some of the stories they’re reading about:

Steve Payne’s farewell bash Oct. 25;

How Applejacks is making its mark in Mississauga;


Brian Gladstone’s new weekly open stage;

What’s up with Renaissance Café?;

Bert and Ernie’s goes under;

Oct. 26 showcase by The McDales at Gabby’s;

Anthony Gomes coming to Silver Dollar;

Another multiple award-winning Jazz act coming to Chalkers;

Oct. 26 benefit for Martin Lesmond;

Sady T’s new show night;

New talent at Axis Grill Tuesday jam;

The prime of Miss Rebecca Matiesen;

and more, including expanded daily listings!


If you want to get weekly issues in your inbox, you can subscribe for $5 per month or $39 for the year. You can pay via interweb banking, Paypal or other options. Send me a reply and I’ll be happy to get you signed up! – Gary 17


Gary 17
Publisher & Editor, to-nite magazine
http://to-nite.bigsmokemusic.com
Tel: 416-424-1743


Hear my radio show, "Open Season", at www.radiothatdoesntsuck.com.

On Facebook: Gary Therealgaryseventeen-- hear Gary 17 songs on My Band tab!


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SHAWN BRUSH @ WHISTLING WALRUS (HAMILTON, ON) - FRI., OCT. 24


Hi, everyone. I hope all is well in your world. My birthday party was fun and I had a good time. Thanks to all that could make it out. Thank you to all those that sent me birthday wishes, cards, etc...

The best thing I got this year was a 3/4-size Telecaster guitar from my friend, Radar. One of the coolest gifts I think I have ever had in my life !!

Now that the party is over and we fight the battle of the bulge from Thanksgiving, it's time to get out of the house and into a nice pub for some music.

I will be at the Whistling Walrus this Friday evening (Oct. 24) performing a few solo sets of my classic hits. Start time is 9:30 pm and the pub is easy to get to.

www.whistlingwalrus.ca


www.shawnbrush.com


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PAUL GREEN & STRAIGHT SHOT - UPCOMING DATES (OCT. 24-28)


Hi, all. It’s a busy week for the band. Here’s this week's schedule:

Friday 10/ 24 starting at 9:30pm

Owl 'n Thistle - 808 Post Ave., Seattle, WA


Saturday 10/25 starting at 8pm

Grinders - 19811 Aurora Av. N., Shoreline, WA


Sunday 10/26 starting at 5pm

Johnny's Dock - 1900 E D St, Tacoma, WA


Tuesday 10/28 starting at 8:30pm

Muckleshoot Casino Blues Showcase - 2402 Auburn Way S, Auburn, WA


www.paulgreenblues.com


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CROSSROADS - UPCOMING GIGS (WASH. STATE) - OCT. 24 & 25


Friday, October 24th, The Crossroads Band will let the good times roll at Third Place Books -17171 Bothell Way NE - Lake Forest Park, WA, Ph: 206-366-3333. With over 200,000 book titles and a Commons area with five different eating establishments, Third Place Books is by far the coolest book store in the Seattle region. All ages, so bring the family. Beer and wine are available at a couple of the food venders. Come and join us for a real good time! The music goes from 7:30 to 9:45pm. No cover charge!

www.thirdplacebooks.com

Saturday, October 25th, Crossroads will shake a tail feather at a very cool spot - Robert's 99th Street Restaurant and Lounge - 9825 Pacific Ave. S., Tacoma, WA, Ph: 253-536-1464 This is a fun bar, so come on and join in the fun. We hope to see ya! The band plays 8:30 to 11:30pm. No cover charge!

www.roberts99thstreet.com

The Crossroads Band web site is: www.crossroadsblues.net.

We hope to see ya sometime.

John Lee
Crossroads


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TAKE A SPIN ON THE LOVE RIDE 25!




Too Slim and the Taildraggers is offering you an opportunity to purchase this limited run of CDs that are available to them. The Love Ride 25 CD features the song, "Devil in a Doublewide", from Too Slim and the Taildraggers' upcoming release, Free Your Mind.
Only 300 CDs are available at this time. This is going to be the only pre-release of any songs from Too Slim and the Taildraggers until their album, Free Your Mind, is released in the spring of 2009.
The Love Ride CD features - Joe Bonamassa, The Allman Brothers Band, Too Slim and the Taildraggers, Jeff Healey, The Mick Fleetwood Band, Back Door Slam, Andy Summers, Floyd Miles, Dave Mason, Todd Smallwood, Robby Krieger, and more. The Love Ride 25 CD is a must-have for all collections.

TRACK LISTING:

1. FLOYD MILES - “Gambling Blues”
2. JOE BONNAMASA - “Dirt in My Pocket”
3. TOO SLIM AND THE TAILDRAGGERS - “Devil in a Doublewide”
4. ANDY SUMMERS - “Desert Ride”
5. MICK FLEETWOOD BAND - “Where the Wind Blows”
6. HOPE WAITS - “Mother in Law Blues”
7. DAVE MASON - “Ain’t Your Legs Tired, Baby?”
8. ASHLEIGH ROGERS - “Midnight Train to Georgia”
9. ROBBY KRIEGER & TODD SMALLWOOD - “On the Road to Heaven”
10. JEFF HEALEY - “Can’t Tame My Soul”
11. BACK DOOR SLAM - “Outside Woman Blues”
12. ALLMAN BROTHERS BAND - “Ain’t Wastin’ Time No More”

CDs will be available for shipment on October 28th - Order your copy now!
This is the link where you can purchase the disc:





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THE FUNKTION HEADLINES R & B FEST @ THE RAINBOW (OTTAWA) - OCT. 24


The FunKtion @ the 21st Annual R&B Fest @ The Rainbow Bistro in Ottawa - Oct 24th

Hello, everyone - quick note - The FunKtion will be @ The Rainbow Bistro (76 Murray St.), Ottawa, ON, on Friday, Oct. 24th, for the 21st Annual R&B Fest! Opening for The FunKtion will be Zydeco Loco and Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo - three great bands! One great venue!

www.thefunktion.ca

www.mumbojumbo.ca

www.zydecoloco.ca


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Tuesday, October 21, 2008

"LET'S FIND A WAY" - A SONG TO BRING HOPE FOR CHILDREN WITH AIDS





FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


"LET’S FIND A WAY": SONG BRINGS HOPE FOR CHILDREN WITH AIDS

TORONTO – MONDAY, OCTOBER 20TH – "Let’s Find A Way" is a labour of love or “kenoronhkwa” (in the Mohawk language of the Iroquois confederacy, it is the word for "love medicine") that began with the hopes of bringing international attention and relief to children either affected or infected by the HIV virus. It’s a concern that reaches across borders, religions and political beliefs; never before have so many performers come together in song, from around the world, to raise awareness of the need for help in fighting this deadly disease. For more information, please visit http://www.letsfindaway.ca/.

In 2006, Robin Tomlin (Chair of the Let’s Find A Way Society) approached songwriters Phil Koochin and Kevan Ehman to write a song that would inspire hope all over the world and serve as an AIDS international anthem. He could not turn a blind eye to the fact that children worldwide are being orphaned, left homeless, hungry or dying, due to this ravaging virus, and that they desperately need our help and support.

Once the song was complete, Tomlin’s dream really began to take shape when multi-talented Toronto artist Waleed Abdulhamid came on board as Musical Director of the project. He produced and recomposed the song and successfully recruited top-notch international musicians and performers to sing in their native languages.

Highly acclaimed artists such as Blood Sweat and Tears frontman David Clayton Thomas, Zaki Ibrahim, as well as the dulcet tones of the Orpheus Choir of Toronto all added their enormous talent and goodwill to the project. Over time, many more people got involved, whether for religious or personal reasons, or just for the love of children. The result of these efforts are three unique versions of the song entitled “Let’s Find A Way” - an English version, a multicultural version featuring 13 languages, and another with rap and spoken word, featuring US artist Ursula Rucker and Toronto poet/activist Boona Mohammad.

A documentary of the process, including interviews with performers and organizers, is also set for release in October of this year. The Let’s Find A Way Society hopes that people of all walks of life will be moved to purchase the CD/DVD package, and/or make a donation to this worthiest of causes by visiting the Lets Find A Way Society website.

The three versions of the song and a DVD are available now at iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody, mTraks, and through http://www.letsfindaway.ca/. All proceeds will be disbursed internationally to marginal communities, including Aboriginal youth populations that do not have direct access to HIV/AIDS support.


ARTIST BIOS

PHIL KOOCHIN & KEVAN EHMAN - Songwriters

Phil Koochin and Kevan Ehman both grew up in British Columbia, where they spent their youth forming and playing in many popular and successful bands. Over the years they have formed a bond of experience and creativity which has resulted in a diverse and unique repertoire of original music. Their songs bridge musical genres effortlessly and reach across all boundaries to share a passion for music that can make a difference.


KGOMOTSO (KG) TSATSI – English - www.myspace.com/musicbykg

Kgomotso Tsatsi was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she began studying music as a young child. While only 21, she recently participated in the USA World Showcase, where she made the top 20 out of over 40,000 auditions. She performs regularly in and around Southern Ontario as the lead singer of her own R&B-blues band, The Hip Kings, and has just released her first EP, The Art of Love.


ZAKI IBRAHIM – French - www.zakiibrahim.com

Born in Vancouver, BC, and raised between South Africa and Canada’s West Coast, vocal sensation Zaki Ibrahim has performed at Capetown’s historic Armchair Theatre, toured Canada with South Africa’s Tumi and the Volume, as well as with The Roots and Bedouin Soundclash.


FATIMA - Spanish and German - www.myspace.com/fatimanyc

Born to a European mother and an African father, Fatima studied classical music in Germany while pursuing her love of Arabic music. She is currently living in New York City, where she has earned both a music and theatre degree.


RUTH MATHIANG - Swahili – www.myspace.com/ruthenfriends

Ruth Mathiang was born in Malakal-Sudan and is quickly becoming one of the rising stars of African music in Toronto. Growing up in Kenya, Ruth performed with local musicians in styles ranging from traditional music to hip hop. In 2006, she recorded her second album, which is a mixture of hip hop, reggae, Afrobeat, and gospel.


YUI KIEWBORIBOON - Chinese

Born in Thailand, Yui Kiewboriboon is now the volunteer Executive Secretary at the Thai Society of Ontario in Toronto and is the co-host of "Thai News Radio" at AM 1430, which entertains the local Thai community with music and news updates.


URSULA RUCKER – rap and spoken word - www.ursula-rucker.com

Ursula Rucker is a spoken word artist from the United States and is known for her diverse repertoire and performances with The Roots, Mos Def, and Nina Simone.


DAVID CLAYTON THOMAS - English - www.davidclaytonthomas.com

Best known as the frontman [after Al Kooper] of Canadian band Blood, Sweat & Tears, David Clayton Thomas has sold over 40 million records and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 1996 and, in 2007, was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame.


SAMIDHA JOGLEKAR - Hindi

Born in New Brunswick and raised in Guelph, Ontario, Samidha Joglekar began her vocal training in western classical music at the age of ten and has since developed a deep appreciation for the Hindustani vocal music of her heritage.


ANTON MAMINE - Russian

Opera sensation Anton Mamine was born in Moscow and placed first in the Kiwanis Music Festival of Toronto's "Grand Opera" category in both 2007 and 2008. He performed at the opening of the Four Seasons Centre, and performed his solo debut at Roy Thomson Hall in 2007.


VALU DAVID - Portuguese - www.valudavid.com

At the age of twelve, Valu David began his musical career singing at youth festivals and church choirs in his home of Angola, Africa. After migrating to Canada, he studied music at Toronto’s Seneca College to become a sound engineer. Today the singer- songwriter, composer and producer has brought his combination of mainstream jazz, soul/R&B and African beats from Angola to Toronto. He sings in English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, and in some Angolan dialects such as Kimbundo, Humbundo, and Kikongo.


BOONAA MOHAMMED - Rap - www.boonaa.com

As a youth activist, Boonaa Mohammed has taken leadership roles in organizations such as the Black Youth Coalition Against Violence, B.L.O.C.K. headz, and the Toronto Youth Cabinet. He has won numerous poetry slams around Toronto, and he has been featured in the historical “When Brothers Speak” spoken word concert. Boonaa was a member of Team Toronto in the Canadian Festival of Spoken Words and is currently touring high schools with the “Stolen From Africa” movement.


LIZZY MAHASHE - Zulu - www.myspace.com/mahashe

Lizzy Mahashe was born in Cape Town, South Africa, and has been recognized with awards and nominations from the Black Label Artist Coalition Award - African Canadian Music, Toronto African Music Award - "Best Female Performer".


DENISE WHITCOMB - Thai

Denise Whitcomb is the Assistant Director of the Thai Dance Troupe of Ottawa. Studying at the University of Ottawa in Arts Administration, music and dance has always been an integral part of her life. She has dabbled in the traditional dances of Scotland, India, Indonesia and the diverse Canadian cultures; however, Thai classical and folk dance are her forte.


DAVID MARACLE - Mohawk, Iroquoian - Celtic flutes - www.davidrmaracle.com

With no formal training in the arts or music, David Maracle believes his talents are a gift from the Creator. He is a six-time Canadian Aboriginal Music Award winner, has won the Aboriginal Peoples Choice Awards for "Best Instrumental Album" in 2007, has two gold records globally, and played to the Queen for her Jubilee.


ORPHEUS CHOIR OF TORONTO - www.orpheuschoirtoronto.com

The Orpheus Choir of Toronto has earned a reputation as one of Toronto 's most distinguished and important choirs. The 60-voice group is now in its 43rd season and sings in French, Spanish, and English on this recording.


ROBERT COOPER – Orpheus Choir of Toronto Conductor - www.orpheuschoirtoronto.com/7.html

One of Canada ’s leading conductors of choral music, Robert Cooper is currently also the Artistic Director of Chorus Niagara, the Opera in Concert Chorus, and the Faculty of Music Women’s Chorus, University of Toronto. He brings fine choral music to all of Canada as Executive Producer of Opera and Choral Music for CBC Radio Two. He was recently made a member of the Order of Canada.


WALEED ABDULHAMID – Arabic - Electric Bass & Acoustic Guitar
www.myspace.com/waleedabdulhamid

Waleed Abdulhamid is the Project Manager, Music Director and Producer of the recording of “Let’s Find A Way”. He is also responsible for recomposing the original song to the version that is now heard on the recording. Originally from Sudan, the multi-instrumentalist, composer, vocalist and producer has been an active member of the Toronto music scene since his arrival in Canada in 1992. Waleed leads his African jazz band, Radio Nomad, which won "Band of the Year" at the Toronto African Music Awards in 2000.


MARK KELSO - Drums - www.groovydrums.com

Originally hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, Mark Kelso has made Toronto his home for quite some time. He has performed with Herbie Hancock, Paquito D'Rivera, Jane Bunnett & Spirits of Havana and Montuno Police.


RICHARD GREENSPOON - Drums

Toronto-based Richard Greenspoon is an accomplished drummer and teacher whose credits include studio work, feature film recordings, touring and a large student base.


BRUCE CASSIDY - Trumpet - www.brucecassidymusic.com

Born in Fredericton and schooled in Nova Scotia, Bruce Cassidy is the Musical Director for David Clayton Thomas and is one of the most sought-after jazz musicians in Toronto.


RAVI NAIMPALLY - Tabla

Ravi Naimpally was born in Kanpur, India, where his parents ran a classical music society. This gave Ravi the opportunity to listen to some of the legends of Hindustani music. Today, Ravi has accompanied many of India's finest artists, including vocalist Lakshmi Shankar, sarod maestro Buddadev Das Gupta, and kathak dancer Pratap Pawar.


JOHN EBATA - Piano & Keyboard - www.myspace.com/johnebata

John Ebata's talents run deep in the music world as a musician, songwriter, arranger, producer, musical director and recording engineer. As a recording engineer, his Time Warp album was nominated for "Jazz Album of the Year" at the Juno Music Awards. As a writer, his song, “Hit & Run Lover”, won "Rhythm & Blues Song of the Year" at the Black Music Awards of Canada.


DEREK THORNE – Congas & Percussion - www.myspace.com/riddum

Born in Trinidad, Derek Thorne performs regularly in the Toronto area with Kobo Town, Ballet Creole, and various other jazz artists.


LAURENCE STEVENSON - Violin - www.myspace.com/laurencestevenson

Laurence Stevenson is a radio producer for CBC Radio One's “Outfront”. Outside of work, he plays violin and electric mandolin in several bands, utilizing a variety of styles including traditional folk, electric Celtic, flamenco, experimental electronica, prog rock, jazz-rock fusion and African music.

HENNIE BEKKER - Piano - http://www.henniebekker.com/

Hennie Bekker is an award-winning, multi-platinum selling musician whose eclectic career spans decades, continents, generations and genres.


JORDAN LIPSON

HELEN COXON

Let’s Find A Way Society gratefully acknowledges the support from the Producers of the CTV’s "Corner Gas", David Livingstone and Empire New Media, TXN Installations, Arbor Records, iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody, mTraks, Robert Cooper and Helen Coxon.

- 30 -


For more information, photos, interviews, please contact:

Tim Des Islets
Assistant Publicist
SPEAK Music
tim@speak-music.com
647-233-7824

www.speak-music.com


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Monday, October 20, 2008

CARLOS VEIGA - UPCOMING PERFORMANCES - OCT.-DEC. '08




20 Oct 2008 - 23:00
tap room
montréal, Quebec

22 Oct 2008 - 22:00
bistro bar
berthierville, Quebec

23 Oct 2008 - 21:30
cozy bar et resto (with the boys)
rosemère, Quebec

27 Oct 2008 - 23:00
tap room
montréal, Quebec

29 Oct 2008 - 22:00
bistro bar
berthierville, Quebec

5 Dec 2008 - 22:00
bistro a jojo
montréal, Quebec

6 Dec 2008 - 22:00
bistro a jojo
montréal, Quebec


www.myspace.com/carlosveiga



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LITTLE MISS HIGGINS WINS WESTERN CANADIAN MUSIC AWARD


PRESS RELEASE
Oct. 20, 2008

Little Miss Higgins’ critically acclaimed album, Junction City, won a 2008 Western Canadian Music Award for "Outstanding Blues Recording" last night (19th) in Edmonton, Alberta.

Little Miss Higgins, aka singer/guitarist Jolene Higgins, who lives in Nokomis, Sask., appeared on the program at several affiliated events over the weekend. Junction City was recorded in Calgary with some of that city's leading musicians, including producer Tim Williams, as well as with Higgins’ sidekick, Foy Taylor, on rhythm guitar.

Little Miss Higgins is having a splendid year that has been filled with bookings from across the country and a handful of honours. The five-foot-two performer won the "Favourite Blues Artist/Group or Duo of the Year" category of the 8th Annual Indie Awards held in Toronto on March 8, 2008, during Canadian Music Week. Junction City was also nominated in the "Blues Album of the Year" category for the 2008 Juno Awards.

Little Miss Higgins has toured extensively this summer, including appearing on festival stages in Edmonton, Winnipeg, Montreal, Owen Sound, and Canso, Nova Scotia.

Little Miss Higgins Tour Dates:

Oct 23: The Ironwood Stage and Grill, Calgary, AB
Oct 24: The Ironwood Stage and Grill, Calgary, AB
Oct 25: The Twin Butte General Store, Twin Butte, AB
Oct 30: The Royal, Nelson, BC
Oct 31: Old Firehall Wine Bar, Rossland, BC
Nov 6: Minstrel Café, Kelowna, BC
Nov 7: Bozzini's Lounge, Chilliwack, BC
Nov 8: Crescent Legion, Crescent Beach, BC
Nov 12: Dream Café, Penticton, BC
Nov 13: Arts Station, Fernie, BC
Nov 14: The Slice, Lethbridge, AB
Nov 15: The Royal Canadian Legion Hall, Vermilion, AB
Nov 29: Women's Blues Review at Massey Hall, Toronto, ON
Dec 5: Amigo's, Saskatoon, SK
Dec 6, The Nokomis Hotel, Nokomis, SK


For more information:
Brian Farquharson
Anya Wilson Promotion and Publicity
radiovp@netsurf.net
416-977-7704


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Sunday, October 19, 2008

PHOTOS OF CLASSICAL MANDOLIN SOCIETY OF AMERICA
IN CONCERT - OCT. 18

Classical Mandolin Society of America (conducted by Carlo Aonzo)

Altar/Performing Stage at L'Eglise catholique St-Lambert, QC

Dining w/ Carlo Aonzo (2nd on l.), Nicole Fournier and Rene Izquierdo (r.)

(Janis Fournier and Josephine - mandolin players)


Nicole and Janis Fournier

Also performing in the concert were Tamara Volskaya ("The Paganini of the Domra") and bayan player Anatoliy Trofimov, jazz mandolist Joseph Brent and the Preville Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra.

[Photos by D.M. Wells]


http://classicalmandolinsociety.org/


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ARKANSAS BLUES AND HERITAGE FEST - NOW, THAT'S A BLUES FEST!




Hey, Blues Fans.

The Blues Blast headed to Helena, Arkansas, last weekend for the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Fest. And what a great show it was. More than 40 performers including Carl Weathersby, Pinetop Perkins, Mem Shannon, Michael Burks, Moreland & Arbuckle, Samuel James, Willie King, Sam Carr, Dave Riley, Rick Estrin, Janiva Magness, Anson Funderburgh, Hubert Sumlin, Willie "Big Eyes" Smith, Bobby Rush and many, many more!

This week we have the first of a two part review of the festival. You want to see ALL the pics of the Friday performers and all the fun, so CLICK HERE. Stay tuned next week too for more of the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival with the review of Saturday night's show! Send an email to info@illinoisblues.com to obtain the full newsletter, including this week's and next weeks' reviews.

This is one fantastic festival, so make plans to get there next year. It's the Blues experience of a lifetime!

Blues Reviews and MORE!

James Walker reviews a DVD from Byther Smith. Bob Kieser reviews the Friday show at the 2008 Arkansas Blues and Heritage Festival. Ben Cox reviews the new CD from Blues Blast Music Award nominee Gina Sicilia. All this and MORE! SCROLL DOWN!!!

Blues Blast Music Awards Tickets

Tickets for the 2008 Blues Blast Music Awards are selling FAST!

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets NOW! Tickets are only $25.

The awards show is Sunday, November 2nd, 2008, at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago, IL.
It is going to be a GREAT event with confirmed appearances by Magic Slim & the Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss & Gerry Hundt, John Nemeth, The Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), and Gina Sicilia.

There are just 400 tickets available for this great show. This event WILL sell out, so get yours NOW!

Visit the Blues Blast Music Awards Myspace page for more info at:

www.myspace.com/bluesblastmusicawards


Advertise with IllinoisBlues.com

Get the Blues word OUT!

Festivals... The Blues Blast & IllinoisBlues.com's website are great ways to promote ANY Blues event or product. In fact we believe we just might have THE best Blues advertising vehicle anywhere to promote YOUR Blue event!

Blues CD's... For less than the cost of one small ad in a newspaper, you can advertise your shows, new CD or any Blues product. A great way to get the Blues word out!

Blues fans WANT to know about your Blues event of product. Call Bob at (309) 267-4425 or send an email to for a confidential quote today!

www.llinoisBlues.com covers Blues all over the US - NOT just in Illinois!

IllinoisBlues.com also offers effective advertising for Festivals and Club Owners, Recording Companies and Performers. Put your Blues advertisement on our homepage at: http://www.illinoisblues.com/ either as a sponsored event or as a featured event, product, recording or merchandise. We get 10,000 visitors and 800,000 hits A MONTH on our website!
Nearly 11,000 Blues Fans, Musicians, Recording Companies, Club Owners, Blues Societies and Festival Promoters in all 50 states and in 40 countries read the Blues Blast magazine each week. You can feature your event or product in the largest FREE internet Blues magazine delivered right to your inbox each week.

Contact us Today at info@illinoisblues.com.

Visit our website at:
P.O. Box 721 Pekin, Illinois 61555
© 2007 - 2008 IllinoisBlues.com

Official Website of the Arkansas Blues and Heritage Fest:

http://bluesandheritagefest.net

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