New Gillian Nicola & the Radio Interference CD: Chasing the Wind

Local singer/songwriter Gillian Nicola has been described as alt-country.  She was even nominated for that category at the Hamilton Music Awards this year.  Her latest 6-song EP, Chasing the Wind, done with her band, The Radio Interference, proves that she has more to offer.

With a style encompassing rock, soul, indie, country and folk, Gillian and the gang have created a fabulous sound that transcends categories.

The highlight, of course, is the singer's lovely voice - filled with personality and soul.  Combine that with an outstanding band (Ben Alexander on lead guitar, Andrew Ivens on keyboards and mandolin, Bruce Scavuzzo on bass, and Timon Wientzek on drums) and you've got the recipe for some marvelous music.  Guests on the disc include Eric Persichini (who also mixed and engineered the EP), Alex Howard, and others.

Physical CDs and downloads are available at Gillian's live shows and through her Bandcamp page.  It can also be downloaded through iTunes.

Earlier this year, she also released an amazing 3-song collection entitled Live Tracks. It features two live versions of tracks from Chasing the Wind and a I Won't Give In.

Videos below courtesy of Gillian's YouTube Page.









Links: Gillian Nicola, More CD Releases

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New Dan Walsh CD: Outta the Jam

Local axe slinger Dan Walsh is known for world-class instrumental CDs and excellent guitar work for many musicians.  With his most recent album, Outta the Jam, Dan is adding singer and songwriter to his resume. He does an incredible job with both.

From effects laden grooves, funky beats to slow blues, Dan throws everything he has into the songs.  There's more than enough energy and power in his voice to handle it all with pinache.  This is an amazing start to a new chapter in his career!

This wonderful CD can be picked up at Dan's live shows and can also be downloaded through cdbaby and iTunes.

Videos below courtesy of Rajco58






Blast from the Past: Videos of JP Riemens & Dan Walsh@This Ain't Hollywood

Link: Dan Walsh, More Dan Walsh Stories, More CD Releases

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New Jerry Johnson CD: Barber's Chair

Funk, Blues and Soul are the order of the day for Jerry Johnson's latest release Barber's Chair.  The local axeman is definitely a virtuoso on the guitar and his impressive skills are on display throughout the Hamilton Music Award nominated 5-track CD.

It starts and ends with fiery guitars from the title track and the closer, Mr. Blues.  In between there's the uptempo What Do I Think About Me Now, the beautiful In My Dreams featuring guest vocalist Darcy Feaver, and the emotional Life Before You.

Multi-instrumentalist Steve Negus of Saga fame also adds some amazing touches to this disc.

You can pick up the CD at any of Jerry's earth shaking live shows or you can download it (or get a CD Rip) at cdbaby.

Click here if you can't see the video below.



Blast from the Past: Jerry Johnson CD-Right Now

Links: Jerry Johnson, More Jerry Johnson Stories, More CD Releases

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New Sonny Del-Rio Compilation CD: Blow Your Horn Man!

Hamilton music veteran Sonny Del-Rio made a name for himself playing fabulous music for over 50 years.  His latest release, Blow Your Horn Man! is a "best of" compilation of some of the saxman's greatest work.

It's hard to create a CD that encapsulates such a storied career but Blow Your Horn Man! succeeds quite well.  Not only is it a wonderful historical document - its a kick ass disc as well.  The album was even nominated for a Hamilton Music Award this year.

Compiled from many of his solo CDs and other sources, it features work with such luminaries as Trickbag, King Biscuit Boy, Jack Pedler (Teenage Head), Neil Nickafor, Mike Williams, Dan Thomas (Hammertones), Jesse O'Brien and many more.

As an added bonus, there's an amazing unrelased holiday tune, Merry Christmas to You, where Sonny teams up with a who's who of the Hamilton music scene: Tom Wilson, Dave Rave, Skip Prokop (Lighthouse), Jude Johnson, Ray Materick, Harrison Kennedy, and others.

You can pick this CD at any of Sonny's live shows or download it through eMusic or iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Jim Unsworth.



Video below courtesy of Canada Jams



Blast from the Past: Sonny Del-Rio and We Got Blues@Boon's House

Links: Sonny Del Rio, More Sonny Del Rio Stories, More CD Releases

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New Michael Vallely CD: Circus Songs

If you prefer variety in your music, then Circus Songs, the incredible latest disc from local singer/songwriter Michael Vallely is for you.  Recently nominated for a Hamilton Music Award, the album deftly explores a lot of musical territory.


Though always grounded in the folk/roots tradition, the songs range from pop, Celtic, Country, a touch of Reggae and even a little bit of Rap.  Michael handles it all with distinctive vocals, outstanding songwriting and a wonderfully twisted sense of humour.

Joining him on this unique musical venture are a few amazing local talents such as Tomi Swick, Andrea Unger, Randall Hill, Danny Lockwood, Amy King, Bob Doidge, Colin Lapsley, and Sahra Featherstone

You can pick up the CD at any of his live show or download it through iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers.



Links: More Michael Vallely Stories, More CD Releases

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Hell County Debut CD

The self titled debut CD from local power trio, Hell County is not for the feint of heart.  This is stunning, raw, super-heavy rock with a blues soul.

The powerful, gritty voice and infectious, loud guitar workouts of Wayne Janus set the stage for the whole disc. Tony "Rush" Wachnuik (bass) and Robin Houston (drums) meet him blow for blow as they create a shack shaking sound guaranteed to wake the neighbours.

This ain't just head bangin' music either.  There's enough boogie infused in here to make you shake your booty as well as your head.

If you think you can handle it, you can pick up a CD at one of the band's (or Wayne's solo) live shows.  It can also be downloaded through cdbaby or iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Hell County's YouTube page.



Blast from the Past: Videos - Hell County and others play the Locke Street Fest

Links: Hell County, More Wayne Janus Stories, More CD Releases

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New Harrison Kennedy CD: Soulscape

There's a good reason area Bluesman Harrison Kennedy's latest CD, Soulscape (from Electro-Fi Records) recently helped him win four Hamilton Music Awards: It's just that good!

With this astounding album, Harrison has successfully fused his soulful R&B sound with the country Blues.  This is Mississippi meets Motown!

The legendary musician works hard on this disc.  Not only does his dynamic voice sound as great as ever but he also deftly handles banjo, mandolin, harmonica, spoons, fife, percussion and more.

With Keith 'Happy' Lindsay on keys and Alec Fraser on percussion, the band is up to the task of helping Harrison fulfill this unique sound.  Justin Dunlop ably lends his bass and guitar talents to one track as well.

You can pick up this wonderful CD at his live shows, Picks N Sticks, or though the Electro-Fi website.  It can also be downloaded through eMusic or iTunes.

Video below courtesy of RandallStaffordCook



Blast from the Past: Harrison Kennedy CD-Shame the Devil

Links: Harrison Kennedy, More Harrison Kennedy Stories, More CD Releases

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New Andre Bisson CD: Bad Scene

Local bluesman Andre Bisson's latest CD, Bad Scene recently earned 7 Hamilton Music Awards - and with good reason!

Andre's usual tasty blend of blues, swing, R&B, and soul have received an extra shot of energy.  His voice is more powerful than ever and the hot band is right there with him.

The albums packed with incedible numbers: the hard drivin' Soul Survivor, the cool boogie of the title track, straight ahead blues rock (Wasting Time), slow soulful numbers (Ever Since You Went Away) and an excellent cover of Jimi Hendrix's Remember.

Rounding out this killer main band is Loretta Hale (Trumpet), Brad Cheeseman (Bass), Matt Burns (Drums/Tambourine) and Francis Smith (Sax).  Special guests include Jesse O'Brien, Darcy Hepner, Andrew King, Kevin Matthews.

This amazing album can be downloaded through  and iTunes and cdbaby (where you can also get a CD rip of it).

Videos below courtesy of Andre's YouTube Page







Blast from the Past: Andre Bisson CD-Till the Real Thing Comes Along

Links: Andre Bisson, More Andre Bisson stories, More CD Releases

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New Daddy Long Legs CD: The Devil's in the Details

With tons of Boogie Blues and hard drinkin' songs, the latest disc from Waterloo's Daddy Long Legs, Devil's in the Details (from Busted Flat Records) is the perfect musical party platter.

This is no-nonsense, rattle the roof, electric blues rock meant to get ya dancin'.  Blazing guitars, fiery harp playing and dynamic vocals are the order of the day here.

There are also a few wonderful detours such as the acoustic Dug My Own Grave, Lonely (a beautiful ballad) and a bit of cool zydeco on Borrowed Time.

This rockin' CD is available at their explosive live shows and through the Busted Flat website.  It can also be downloaded  through Busted Flat and iTunes.

Video below courtesy of Dave Sloan



Video below courtesy of Sound Distillery



Links: Daddy Long Legs, More Daddy Long Legs Stories, More CD Releases

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New JP Riemens and the Fabulous Barflies CD: No Filter

No Filter is an apt name for the new album from JP Riemens and the Fabulous Barflies.  Recorded live in Barry Mac's living room, the no-nonsense, warm, organic feel is evident from the very first note.

The local singer/songwriter's phenomenal storytelling shines in this immediate state.  The heartbreak, joy, love and sadness in the songs stand out when they are laid bare.

The Fabulous Barflies (Brian Griffith on guitar, Carrie Ashworth on bass, and Danny Lockwood on drums) do a stupendous job of eaving a mix of jazz, blues, county and folk to JP's emotional tales.

This must-have collection is available for download on eMusic and iTunes. Physical copies can be picked up at JP's magnificent live shows.

Check out the video below



Blast From the Past: JP Riemens CD - Dirty Sunset

Links: JP Riemens, More JP Riemens Stories, More CD Releases

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Jordan John Debut CD: New Day

For a number of years, Oakville's Jordan John has been blowing the roof off of many local venues and wowing festival audiences.  Now you can take some of that experience home with you on his recently unleashed debut album, New Day. With a whopping 15 tracks of his signature blend of R&B, soul, funk and blues, the disc will be a wonderful addition to your music collection.

This young Bluesman is a musical force to be reckoned with.  Along with his smooth voice and amazing guitar skills (both electric, slide and acoustic), he plays drums, wurlitzer, organ, clavinet, moog, piano, tambourine and more.

On New Day Jordan is joined on bass by his father, Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Prakash John (Parliament-Funkadelic, Alice Cooper, Lincolns).  Other talented guests include drummers Jorn Andersen and Al Cross (Big Sugar), Dave McMorrow (keyboards) and more.

Physical CDs are available at his unforgettable live performances.  You can also download this marvelous collection from  iTunes.

Videos below courtesy of Blues in Bront.





Blast from the Past: Jordan John and the Blues Angels@Sound of Music Festival

Links: Jordan John, More Jordan John Stories, More CD Releases

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New Tia McGraff CD: Break These Chains

If you're sick of the usual "dull pop with a twang" country music that's out there, Tia McGraff's latest CD, Break These Chains is the cure for what ails you.

This local singer/songwriter really knows how to craft a song.  The storytelling and honest lyrics are just first class.  Tia's angelic voice just stands out on every track as well.

She's also not afraid to expand her sound.  Bits of folk, rock and even some east coast influences pepper the music.  Each tune has it's own spirit and feel!


Joining this talented lady are her husband (and producer, co-writer) Tommy Parham (guitar) and Johnathan Edwards (guitar, bass, mandolin).  Guests include Ian Bell  on accordion and Jim Kimball (from Reba's band) on harmonica

This amazing CD is available at her great live performances, cdbaby, and through her web site. It can be downloaded though iTunes, cdbaby, and her web site.

Video below courtesy of Tia McGraff.



Blast from the Past: Tia McGraff and Others@Festival of Friends

Link: Tia McGraff,  More Tia McGraff Stories, More CD Releases

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Danielle Beaudin Debut CD: Wait For Your Love

Wait for Your Love is the first CD from local singer/singer songwriter Danielle Beaudin.  If this debut disc is any indication, we should expect a lot of great things from this talented lady.

Boasting  a few high energy tunes (Sun Will Shine, Everything and Nothing), great bluesy numbers (Take a Little More) and beautiful softer moments (Don't Walk Away, Little Bird), the disc is an incredible, multi-faceted musical ride.

Danielle's voice handles it all with style and the instrumentation is amazing.  She's joined here by members of Freedom Train (Carl Jennings even co-wrote the songs and produced the CD), Tim Allard, and Aaron Goldstein (Lee Harvey Osmond, Huron).

The CD is available at her wonderful live shows and as a download through her website.

Videos below courtesy of Danielle's YouTube Page







Links: Danielle Beaudin, More Danielle Beaudin Stories, More CD Releases

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New Smoke Wagon Blues Band CD: Live in Hamilton

Stonewalls must've been a very hoppin' place when the Smoke Wagon Blues Band took the stage in May of 2013.  The boys recorded the stunning show for their latest CD: Live in Hamilton and the fun just shines through.

Filled with spectacular performances of their best songs (Barton Street Blues, I Can't Change, Fine Furred Mama, Wrong Side Girl plus many more) and fabulous covers (Ain't No Sunshine, Feelin' Alright, Muddy Water's Blow Wind Blow) the disc is a great example of what this top notch band can dish out live.

You can pick up a copy of this CD at their explosive live shows (so in a way, you'll get a chance to experience two great live performances!).  It's also availble through the band's website and will be available through iTunes and other digital stores soon.

Video below courtesy of Corey Lueck



Blast From the Past: Smoke Wagon CD - It Ain't Easy

Links: Smoke Wagon Blues Band, More Smoke Wagon Blues Band Stories, More CD Releases

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New Pearly Jenkins CD: bone-bucket

If you're looking for Americana music with some grit, look no further than Pearly Jenkins' latest CD, bone-bucket.  This Brantford singer/songwriter has created a disc with character.

Filled with a whopping 16 songs of raw, whiskey soaked songs, the album's got guts. Pearly's amazing voice deftly handles the soft ballads, toe tappin' dittys and everything in between.

The main thread that holds everything together is great songwriting.  From dark comedy to down home stories to hurtin' songs; each tune has it's own personality.

Surprisingly, Jenkins says the CD is actually a limited edition disc (ie collectable!) of demos.   The tunes were leaked to the public in advance of a full album to be produced by the famed Glen Marshall!  That means we now have another amazing release to look forward to!   There are only a few available, so order yours soon through his web site.

Below is a song from the CD, courtesy of Pearly's YouTube page



Links: Pearly Jenkins, More CD Releases

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New Shawn O'Halloran CD: Jumpin' the Gun on Mardi Gras

The Hammer meets New Orleans is the best way to describe the latest wonderful disc from local bluesman, Shawn O'Halloran.

Usually seen playing great straight-ahead blues with the Stingrays, Shawn has stepped into the spotlight with some great Cajun-infused, jazzy tunes.  There's a lotta fun, a lotta soul, and a lotta funk!

Joining this party are Paul Panchezak of Trickbag (drums), Lindsay Harnett (guitar and uke), Neil Nickafor (bass), Ed Roth (accordion, keyboards), Leo Sullivan (sax), and Wayne Krawchuck (harmony vocals).  The whole package is ably produced by Michael J. Birthelmer.

You can catch this CD at the Stingrays shows or contact Shawn through the Stingrays site.

Below is the title track from the album.



Blast from the Past: Videos-Stingrays@Coach and Lantern

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New Poor Angus CD: Gathering

Local band Poor Angus seem to have done the near-impossible with their 3rd CD, Gathering.  The gang have created a glorious Celtic Folk album that has many modern touches yet can still truly be called traditional.

You'll definitely hear amazing fiddle-playing and some cool bagpipes plus many other Celtic elements (especially on the instrumentals).  Powerful lyrics and a stronger singer/songwriter feel sets it apart from the average release in the genre.

This may be due to the newest member of the group (replacing the retired lead singer Scott Cameron Smith) Joel Guenther.  His background is more in the rock/blues vein.  With the addition of this talented musician, the band has started an incredible new chapter.

In fact, Something I Can't See, a tune written by Joel and included on Gathering came in fourth in the CBC Searchlight Competition.  This song is one of the highlights of the collection  - as well as a beautiful rendition of Stan Roger's Barrett's Privateers.

The veterans of the group (Andrew Bryan, Ross Griffiths, Brian LeBlanc, and DJ Moons) have done an amazing job of moving forward while still keeping their roots in the traditional.  Together, they've surely made a future for their sound.

You can check out this new direction by purchasing or downloading the album through the band's website or pick it up at their explosive live shows.

Videos below courtesy of MusicFerret




Link: Poor Angus, More CD Releases

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Michael J. Birthelmer's Zanzibar & Your Number Now on CD

Hamilton singer/songwriter Michael J. Birthelmer has released two of his classic albums on CD for the first time.

Zanibar has a wonderful tropical feel throughout most of the disc.  This isn't your typical island dance music but an amazing fun sound with its roots in folk.  The storytelling is just superb.

Michael is backed up dutifully by Bob Doidge, Ed Roth, Bill Dillon, Brian Griffith and others.  The background vocals by Ian Thomas, Dave Rave, and Jude Johnson are a real treat as well.

Video below courtesy of Ohanakamakame

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Your Number is a fabulous musical voyage featuring different elements such as jazz, pop, oriental sounds, psychedelic passages, and synthesizers.The songwriting is top notch here as well.

Michael co-horts this time out include Carl Horton, Michael Hickey & Paul Panchezak (of Trickbag), and many others.

To get one (or both) of these stunning CDs, you can contact Michael through his web site.

The video below is a song from the CD.



Blast from the Past: Videos-Michael Birthelmer@Pine Street

Links: Michael Birthelmer, More Michael Birthelmer Stories, More CD Releases 

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Quails in the Nest Debut Album: Live at the Cottonwood Mansion

Hamilton duo Quails in the Nest have kick started their recording career with an amazing album: Live at the Cottonwood Mansion

This is indie pop folk at its best! Mikey Molnar's spirited voice and energetic guitar work rip through 7 remarkable tracks.  Nicholas Valerio's drumming is of the same caliber.  The infectious harmonica playing is also superb.

Per the title, this is an off the floor recording from the Cottonwood Mansion in Selkirk, Ontario.  The result is an organic feeling performance with a homey feel.

This quality album can be downloaded through bandcamp, itunes, and emusic.

Below are two videos from the recording.





Links: Quails in the Nest, More Quails in the Nest Stories, More CD Releases

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New Lucas Stagg CD: Good Things

Earlier this year, Cambridge's Lucas Stagg released the aptly named CD, Good Things through Busted Flat Records.  Filled with stunning songwriting, the album is a triumph of modern melodic folk rock.

Lucas's expressive voice works extremely well with lively numbers such as She's a Ghost and What I Mean or delicate songs like Good Things and One in the Same.  Each and every track is accompanied by his band's five-star instrumental work.

Lucas is capably backed up by multi-instrumentalist Paul Macleod (ex-Skydiggers) with Jim Wolfe on keyboards and Adam Buschlen on Ukulele Bass.

This outstanding album can be bought at his live shows or though Busted Flat Records (CD or download).  It can also be downloaded through cdbaby or itunes.

Videos below courtesy of Lucas's YouTube page.



 
Blast from the Past: Lucas Stagg and others on the Ensemble TV show

Links: Lucas Stagg, More Lucas Stagg Stories, More CD Releases

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