Artword Artbar

Friday February 4, 2011, in concert at Artword Artbar 15 Colbourne St. Hamilton– Random Recipe, a dynamic hiphop-folk-minimalist band from Montreal on tour with their new CD “Fold It! Mold It!” The band: Frannie Holder (vocalist, chiquita guitarra), Fab (Fabrizia Difruscia) (rapper, beat-box), Vincent Legault (guitar, keys, bass) and Liu-Kong Ha (percussion, keys). http://www.myspace.com/randomrecipe “Two women led the four-piece with incredible talent, ranging in vocal styles from singing to rapping to beat boxing. Random Recipe was simply a thrill to watch. MeetYouAtTheShow.com, January 2010″.

Saturday February 5, 8 pm, $10, at Artword Artbar. A night of folk, roots, and pop music, featuring three diverse but complementary acts: Kori Pop, Matthew de Zoete, and The Key Frames.  KORI POP is a “little bit Joni Mitchell, and a little bit Mary Poppins”. www.koripop.com
Combining pop, rock, and folk music, MATTHEW DE ZOETE writes songs built on strong melodies and honest lyrics. Ranging from simple ballads to joyful pop revelries, his music favours beauty over bravado. Extensive touring throughout North America and Europe has earned him a reputation for smart songwriting and dynamic performances, as well as comparisons to Nick Drake and Elliott Smith. www.matthewdezoete.com
THE KEY FRAMES are a Toronto roots rock quintet that have been playing locally and around Ontario since 2007. With a strong emphasis on songwriting craft and peerless vocal arrangement, the band has won the hearts of many a hardened Toronto audience with its simple and appealing blend of rock, folk, blues, country and soul. Continue reading →

Friday Feb 18 at 8 pm $10.  The Dharlings from Port Dover (Duane Rutter, Cindy Dell, Amy Wark and LeeAnne Wesseling). A dynamite line-up of multi-instrumentalists (guitar, bass, piano, percussion, fiddle) playing originals, select folky covers and lots of harmonies.  Brennaugh Burns will open the evening and also perform with them.  http://www.myspace.com/thedharlings

Saturday February 19 at 8 pm, $10 advance, $15 door. The Tribal Gallery presents a special concert of East Indian music, with Neeraj Prem on sitar and vocals, and a tabla player. Musically the evening will be mystical and supernatural through the sounds of Indian Sitar, mostly Indian classical music with the elements of folk and gazhals. Tickets in advance at The Tribal Gallery, 174 James Street North, 905-385-1829.

Friday February 25 at 10 pm (following Klyde Broox’s PoeMagic), live music by Doug Murphy and his band Coda.

Thursday, March 3 at 8 pm, no cover. Ken Steffler, guitarist/singer and Ron Weihs, fiddler, host a country jam, Ken & Ron’s Kitchen Party, old-time, country, folk, and vintage singer-songwriter. All welcome.

Saturday March 5 at 8 pm, $5: Stringbenders band (John Kneeland guitar, Owen Mahoney bass, Gary Mahoney drums) anchor an evening of Beatles songs “Sergeant Revolver“, featuring songs from Sgt Pepper and Revolver albums not often played. On March 5 1967, the Beatles had just released Revolver, and were in the studio working on Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The Stringbenders will also support a set of “open mic” if you have a Beatles song to sing.

Saturday March 12 at 8 pm, $10. Concert by singer-songwriter Monique Barry and her band — Marc Meriläinen on guitar, James McEleney on bass and Ambrose Pottie on drums. Special guest: Hamilton’s own wonderful singer-songwriter Kim Koren, rounding out the evening!
Well known around Toronto’s music scene, Monique Barry has performed as part of Fresh Wednesdays at Nathan Phillips Square and the Toronto Jazz Festival. Classically trained singer-songwriter Monique has a dynamic must-hear vocal range. http://www.myspace.com/moniquebarry Continue reading →

Friday March 18 at 8 pm $5. At last, a formal concert by Artword Artbar stalwarts Ken Steffler, the “Busted Busker” (guitar, vocals),  and Ronald Weihs, aka “Ron the Fiddler” (guitar, fiddle, vocals). Photo left by Alex Zafer from last spring’s Busker Crawl.

Saturday March 19 at 8 pm, $10. Ashley Condon and Ria Mae, two wonderful singer-songwriters from Halifax on tour.  Ashley tours in support of her debut album Come In From The Cold, which is nominated for a 2011 ECMA for Country Recording of The Year and Ria will showcase her 2010 Music Nova Scotia Award nominated EP Between The Bad.
http://www.ashleycondon.com/
http://www.myspace.com/riamaemusic Continue reading →

Saturday March 26 at 8 pm, at Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne Street. Tickets $15. An evening of dynamite bluegrass music with mandolinist and vocalist Randal Hill. On guitar and vocals, the rock-steady Johnny Frame. John McNaughton will provide the deep foundation, acoustic bass and vocals. On banjo, one of the finest blue grass banjoists on the planet, Charlie Street.

Friday April 1 at 8 pm, $10. Singer-songwriter Rob Szabo plays a solo concert (guitar and vocals) at Artword Artbar to celebrate the release of his self-titled 5th album. This concert is part of his cross Canada spring CD release tour which has him playing over 30 shows coast to coast. Opening for Rob are guests Danny Buzanko (vocals, guitar and harmonica) and Jimmie Diamond (guitar) of The Overplayers.
http://www.robszabo.com/

Saturday April 9 at 8 pm, $10. “Bow Tie” (Steven Winnall and Allison Smith) launch their new EP “Sequins”, acoustic/folk new songs. http://www.myspace.com/wearebowtie  Opening for them are singer-songwriters Marie Avery and Amber Edgar, see “More”

Continue reading →

Friday April 15, at 8:30 pm $5 at door, at Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne St. Tiny Bill Cody‘s Spring Special Concert, with special guests Jeff Griffiths on drums and Fehn Foss. An evening of Cover Songs, Originals, Spoken Word.
Eclectic Songwriter Tiny Bill Cody re-vamps songs which have haunted him since his youth, tells the odd tale of his private and public failings, and test drives a few new original tunes.  www.tinybillcody.com www.myspace.com/tinybillcody www.torlukasikfoss.com Continue reading →

Saturday, April 16, 8:00 pm at Artword Artbar, $10. The Acoustics are back for their third visit! The Acoustics are a Canadian instrumental world/roots musical ensemble from the Hamilton, Ontario area. For the past ten years, they have been cultivating their own unique world/roots music, with a lively upbeat Mediterranean sound.
Alfonso Spoto accordion; Enzo Spoto, lead and rhythm guitar; Brian Ropcean, percussion; Bonnie Krenciglowa, violin; Andrew Eckart, bass. http://www.theacoustics.ca Continue reading →

Saturday April 23 at 8 pm, only $7 at the door. Artword Artbar rocks again with the great folk ‘n roll rock band The Plain Steel with Ross Lizotte ( guitar, lead vocal), Caroline Olsen (viola, vocal), Jay Lees (bass, vocal), Vince Waters (drums). Guest appearance by singer Karen Corinth and her new band Code Blue. Plus some spoken word from Wordman Z.  http://www.myspace.com/theplainsteelband

Tuesday May 10 at 8 pm $15 reg, $10 students/seniors. A special double bill — Ann Vriend and Lauren Best, singing their songs and playing our piano!
Singer/songwriter/piano player Ann Vriend is on a cross-Canada tour with her new CD. “Love & Other Messes” ( retro soul/Americana). She’s making a special Hamilton stop.   http://www.annvriend.com/ and www.myspace.com/annvriend  Also playing on May 10 is Lauren Best, who writes and sings lyrical alt-pop, accompanying herself on piano. http://www.laurenbest.com/  Continue reading →

Saturday May 14 at 8 pm, $10: Concert by singer-songwriter Matthew de Zoete and his band. Combining pop, rock, and folk music, Matthew de Zoete writes songs built on strong melodies and honest lyrics. Matthew is working on a new album with producer Les Cooper, for mid-2011. Matthew’s band includes Erik Jenson on bass, Ian Venema on drums, Syd Hielema on piano, Mark Volkov on sax, fiddle, and flute, and Johan de Zoete on harmonies.  www.matthewdezoete.com

Plus a guest appearance by The Woodshed Orchestra, an improv pop/soul big band from Toronto, featuring Dave Clark (Gord Downie, Happiness Project, Rheostatics, the WoodChoppers Association). Here’s the Woodshed Orchestra line-up for May 14: Dave Clark-drums -vox, Michael Herring-bass-vox, Jason Kenemy-piano-vox, Joe Lapinski-guitar-vox, Julia Hambleton-clarinet-vox, Karen Ng-sax-vox, Nick Buligan-trumpet-vox. Continue reading →

Thursday May 26 at 8 pm, $15 at the door. The fabulous Micah Barnes, in concert at Artword Artbar, back to his cabaret piano-driven roots. He’s touring with his new CD “Domesticated”. Micah will be performing the songs from hisr latest disc “Domesticated” as well as choice covers by Smokey Robinson, Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye and… of course The Nylons! Daniel Barnes (drums and vocals) and Jon Maharaj (bass)with special guest Gavin Bradley (who produced the recordings) on glockenspiel. The deep pleasures of falling in love and settling down are all a part of the story on Domesticated, the new release from Micah Barnes, powerhouse vocalist and former member of The Nylons. http://www.micahbarnes.com/  Continue reading →

Saturday June 4 at 8 pm, $12. Joni NehRita and her band (Joni NehRita vocals and keys, Adam Bowman drums,  Matthew Lima bass, Ryan Boisselle guitar). A CD Release Concert for her album, The Bare Truth. “The music blends the time-honored qualities of classic soul with a modern sensibility that flirts heavily with jazz and pop. On The Bare Truth, NehRita readily offers up her own imperfections, hopes and fears and assert that change and personal revolution are healthy, necessary even. It was completed with generous help from The Ontario Arts Council.”   http://www.joninehrita.com/
The 1st single, “Are You Ready” is being played on Wave 94.7, The CBC, and is #17 on The UK Soul Chart. It was also performed live on Canada AM on Valentine’s Day.

Thurs June 9 at 8 pm, $5. A concert by Artword Artbar mainstays Ken Steffler (vocals, guitar) and Ron Weihs (fiddle, guitar, vocals).

Friday June 10, during the James North Art Crawl, all evening from 8 pm, tip jar. The wonderful country Americana singer  Tia McGraff, is back at Artword Artbar, with her band Radical Road unplugged. Hew recent CD release “Diversity” received the Hamilton Music Award for best Country Recording). Tia McGraff (lead vocals/guitar), Tommy Parham (acoustic guitar/background vocals). http://tiamcgraff.com/

Thursday June 16, at 8 pm, pwyc. Alt Music Night with host Tom Dusome. M.R. (former dead sweeties) features Mike Long (guitar) and Rebecca (drums) playing exciting fast paced guitar based punk rock. lets dance dance dance! White Byson is a phenomenal duo playing incendiary beats and expressive riffs.. look out! And playing with Tom Dusome will be a full band: Scott Thorn (bass, guitar, vocals) Drop D (drums) and Jessah Higgins (mandolin and vocals)

Friday June 17 at 8 pm, $10. Phillip Brown, Michael Burton, Paul Jansen — Three singer-songwriters and guitarists in the folk mode, a triple-bill!  Phillip Brown: “His songs are imbued with great musicianship, a warm and engaging voice and some of the fanciest guitar picking I’ve heard in a while.”
Michael Burton: “He plays fingerstyle acoustic guitar and uses his expressive voice to connect solidly with his audience.” Paul Jansen: “His unique fusion of traditional Celtic and bluegrass musical forms keeps audiences leaning forward and listening closely.” Continue reading →

Thursday June 23 at 8 pm, “A Touch of Klez“, Hamilton’s own Klezmer band, bringing you the high-energy sound of Eastern European Jewish and gypsy music. “Jordy Abraham – accordion; Bubbles Price – violin; Cookie Black – saxophone; Moishe McFarland – double bass; Leo Kosotski – drums.”

Thursday July 14 at 8 pm. Another wonderful Alt Music Night with host Tom Dusome. This will be a PWYC show and all proceeds go to support new artists. Line-up: Trench Foot; Slender Loris http://www.slenderloris.bandcamp.com/; Anthony Damiao www.myspace.com/anthonydamiao; Tom Dusome www.myspace.com/tomdusomeband and A Yellow Field http://www.ayellowfield.com/
Anthony and the folks in A Yellow Field will be coming in from Waterloo to grace the stage on July 14th. They will be supported by also newcomers to hamilton Michael Stec of Trench Foot and Kevin Fraser of Slender Loris.
Love what you support and support what you love. Find out what you love Thursday July 14th at the Artword Artbar with your host Tom Dusome.

Friday July 15 at 8 pm, pwyc ($20 donation gets you a CD). Duane Rutter is currently touring his new album of heartfelt North-Americana  “Never Bet The Devil Your Head”. And playing an opening set is up and coming singer-songwriter Felicia McMinn.
Haunting melodies and soul searching words matched against Merle Travis style country-blues make NBTDYH already finding a place among the indie stations and fans around the globe.   http://www.duanerutter.com/  Continue reading →

Saturday July 16 at 8 pm, $10.  Jazz with the “Hands Together Trio”:  Aaron Zukewich on piano,  Jon Tuyp drums, Joel Banks bass, debuting new and old originals, classic jazz standards and putting a new spin on their favorite pop covers.
Plus a farewell set by “Bow Tie” (songwriters Steven Winnall and Allison Smith, guitar, vocals, piano) who are off to Australia for a year (pic right). A full evening of music!

Saturday August 13 at 8 pm, $10. Folk and pop hook up at Artword Artbar – fun times ensue! Matthew de Zoete; The Morals; Shelley Adams and Mary Simon.
Shelley Adams and Mary Simon –  http://www.shelleyadamsmusic.com/
 http://www.marysimon.com/  After years of co-writing, Shelley Adams & Mary Simon are taking to the stage as a duo to perform their catchy-indie-pop songs. Armed with thought-provoking lyrics, sister-like harmonies & an assortment of instruments, these girls know how to entertain!
The Morals – http://www.themorals.bandcamp.com/ Hailing from Barrie, The Morals are one of the most genuine up and coming bands. With their roots in folk they harmonize love ballads that make your heart ache. Hollie’s vocals are calming and deep, while Todd’s are soft and sincere. Their music is honest and raw. A true gem.
Matthew de Zoete – http://www.matthewdezoete.com/ Combining pop, rock, and folk music, Matthew de Zoete writes songs built on strong melodies and honest lyrics. Continue reading →

Wednesday Aug 17 at 8 pm, pwyc. Another great evening of Alt Music with host Tom Dusome. Lineup includes: Griffin Epstein and Laura Mac from Toronto, Tom Dusome, and Hamilton Freeskool.

Thursday Aug 18 at 8 pm, $5. An evening of motown, funk and pop with Christina diFranco, vocalist, and The Rocketeers: Jordan Snider -drums, Tom Altobelli -bass, Scott McIntosh -guitar and Chris Bruder -keys. http://www.myspace.com/christinadifranco

Friday August 19 at 8 pm, $5 at door: Dan Medakovic + Matt Coleman. Please join us for an evening of fabulous original songs, amazing acoustic guitar and beautiful fiddle by songwriter/vocalist/guitarist extraordinaire Dan Medakovic and fiddle player Matt Coleman. Dan takes on rednecks, homelessness, war, love, loss, revenge and joy with equal parts humour and sensitivity. Come on out if you want to hear Hamilton’s own version of Van Morrison, Cat Stevens, and Fred Eaglesmith combined into one. For a preview of Dan’s unique music, please check out a few samples at www.youtube.com/user/danmedakovic

Thursday August 25 at 8 pm, “A Touch of Klez“, back again for a summer blast by your favourite super-charged Klezmer band, bringing you the high-energy sound of Eastern European Jewish and gypsy music. “Jordy Abraham – accordion; Bubbles Price – violin; Cookie Black – saxophone; Moishe McFarland – double bass; Leo Kosotski – drums.”

Artword Artbar has big plans for the wild weekend on James Street North, September 8, 9,  10.
CCMA Canadian Country Music Awards are in town, and we have some fabulous country music showcases.
Thursday September 8, concert by The Western Swing Authority at 9 pm
Friday September 9 (James North Art Crawl), country star Tonya Kennedy, from 8 pm,  tip jar
Saturday September 10 (Supercrawl) afternoon, 2 to 4 pm:  “Ladies of Country” Showcase, featuring acoustic performances by Stephanie McIlroy, Nicole Scott, Tonya Kennedy and Kaitlin Kozell. (presented by Cameron Tilbury Publicity, Deborah Wood Publicity, Gull-Trax Productions and KC Media). CCMA Showcase.
Saturday September 10 evening: our favourite country guy J.P. Riemens (Artword Theatre’s “Tobacco Troubadour”) will be hosting a country songwriting workshop, as well as some pickin’ and singin’ of course. Details coming.

Saturday Septmeber 10, 2 to 4 pm, a CCMA showcase: “Ladies of Country: Showcase, featuring acoustic performances by Stephanie McIlroy, Nicole Scott, Tonya Kennedy and Kaitlin Kozell. (presented by Cameron Tilbury Publicity, Deborah Wood Publicity, Gull-Trax Productions and KC Media).

Friday September 16 at 8 pm, $5. An evening of upbeat folk music, featuring Richard Garvey, a roots and folk musician from Kitchener, Ontario (songwriter, guitar, banjo, ulele, vocals), on tour with his new cd “To Grow”.  http://www.richardgarvey.ca/
With guests Bookends – Kyle Reid, and Patrick Main. PJ’s lyrical pop-folk songwriting style contrasts with Kyle emotionally charged electronic influences to create a genre unto itself. www.facebook.com/bookendsmusic
and A Yellow Field http://www.ayellowfield.com/   Continue reading →

Saturday September 17 at 8 pm, at Artword Artbar. Tickets $15. An evening of dynamite bluegrass music with virtuoso mandolin player Randal Hill (mandolin and vocals).  On guitar and vocals, the rock-steady Johnny Frame. On stand-up bass and vocals,  John McNaughton. On banjo, one of the finest blue grass banjoists on the planet, Charlie Street.

Thursday September 22, at 8 pm, pwyc. Dave Macintosh & Friends, with host Dave MacIntosh on guitar and vocals and his wonderful songs. Also on the bill: Elissa Mielke, Amanda Mead, and James Garfield.

Saturday September 24, at 8 pm, cover pwyc. Singer-songwriter-guitarist Mark McNeil trades songs with Les Smith  (of Trickbag), on blues harmonica, guitar, vocals. Come out to a night of great songwriting, fancy guitar work and rip-roaring harmonica playing — with Mark McNeil and Les Smith. With special guest country blues man Mo Kauffey. They’ll play solo and together a collection of roots-based originals and standards. Mark will also give a sneak preview of a new album he’s finishing up. Here’s a cut from it that features Les on harmonica and background vocals. http://soundcloud.com/mcneil-rochard/shiny-things#

Thursday September 29 at 8 pm, $10. Songwriter Fred Magie comes to Artword Artbar to play a concert featuring songs from his album “Window to the World”. True to his acoustic guitar, Fred sounds a lot like Neil Young and Ron Sexsmith and was recently nominated for a Hamilton Music Award. http://www.fredmagie.com/
Joining him is Toronto’s Elana Harte. A gifted vocalist, Elana will be showcasing a selection of her original songs. http://www.elanaharte.com/

Saturday October 1, 4 pm & 9:30 pm, ticket price $10. Two chances to see the one-and-only Big Rude Jake — coming back to Artword Artbar. “Jake is a composer, singer, ‘blues shouter’ and musician with a diverse array of influences. Noted for the distinct ‘swing punk’ sound of his first few albums, he loves and celebrates music – all of it, with special attention to the roots of American music. You’ll hear jazz, swing, ragtime, rock’n‘roll, jump, gospel, blues, folk… Add a little cabaret and some punk attitude, and you’ve got Big Rude Jake.” http://bigrudejake.ca/

Thursday October 6 at 8 pm $5. Touring singer-songwriter Nicole Aube has a concert at Artword Artbar. Also an author, Nicole has an afternoon (4 pm) reading at Chapters Ancaster. http://nicoleaube.webs.com/  Opening the evening at Artword Artbar  is a set by Melinda Richter, a Hamilton-based composer who performs avant-garde pop. Hear her music at: http://soundcloud.com/slowlyslowly. Nicole Aube is a songwriter and pianist on the rise in Canada. She has released ‘Philosoft’, her debut album of original songs in 2011. Following in the vein of Canadian songwriters Christine Fellows and Veda Hille, she performs alternative pop with artful lyrics that could be stand-alone poetry.

Friday October 7 at 8 pm, $10. The Woodshed Orchestra presents “Love & Affection”, an evening of soulful, joyous and celebratory musical times by one of Canada’s premier live pop orchestras. Plus a special guest set by the wonderful singer-songwriter Matthew de Zoete.
The Woodshed Orchestra is headed up by drummer Dave Clark (Gord Downie, Charles Spearin, Rheostatics) and features Michael Herring, Joe Lapinski, Julia Hambleton, Nic Buligan, and Karen Ng. The band is fresh off of their Canadian summer dates headlining at the Hillside Festival in Guelph and Sappyfest in Sackville. http://www.thewoodshedorchestra.com/  “Dave Clark and the Woodshed Orchestra have this amazing ability to make real life sound like the best musical in the world. I can’t name another group of people who sound so joyous together, get to some essential truths about living, and dance their pants off doing it. Love them. They’re my favourite parade.” – Vish Khanna – CBC Radio3 – Exclaim Magazine – Guelph

Saturday October 15 at 8 pm. Heavy Pedal, an evening of piano, song and spectacle — a cabaret night of local female piano-playing singer-songwriters, showcasing original piano-based music, on Artword Artbar’s baby grand. Hosted by Marie Avery, and featuring Kori Pop, Deanna Wells (of Ophelia Syndrome), Sara Whynot (from Kitchener), and Annie Shaw. Each artist will highlight her own unique style of writing and piano-playing. Cover $10 advance through the performers, $15 at the door.
Here is host Marie Avery’s statement about her concept for the evening:
“HEAVY PEDAL: an evening of piano, song, and spectacle.
Heavy Pedal is neither a singer-songwriter show, nor piano recital. It isn’t ‘live music tonight’ at the bar, nor is this a night at the orchestra. It is a home for the writers and performers of original compositions that press the bounds of genera. It is a showcase of technical proficiency not always appreciated in ‘indie rock’, and creativity too wild to be welcome in conservatory halls. Continue reading →

Wednesday November 2 at 8 pm, cover $10. Slakah the Beatchild and Preetam Sengupta. An intimate acoustic concert by two outstanding musicians. Slakah’s urban music has a soulful R&B sound. Preetam’s vocals and guitar fingerpicking have a roots storytelling feel.
Preetam Sengupta came onto the Canadian singer/songwriter scene through the side door, having first focused his energy on his company, Letting Artists Make Art (LAMA) http://lamavision.com/Home.html. Preetam has recorded and releaseed his first original album, (hopeFull), a collection of seven songs that have been described as melodic storytelling that is melancholic with a glint of hope.
Slakah started out as a producer, working with underground hiphip and neo-soul artists. He began writing his own songs, and put out his debut album “Soul Movement” in 2008. Slakah the Beatchild, Canada’s home grown, Writer, Producer, Singer, Songwriter and DJ extraordinaire, has rapidly become an admired and respected household name over the last several years.

Saturday, November 5, 8:00 pm, $10. The Acoustics, the lively world/roots musical ensemble, are back! Alfonso Spoto accordion; Enzo Spoto, vocal, lead and rhythm guitar; Richard Hone, drums; Bonnie Krenciglowa, violin; Andrew Eckart, bass. http://www.theacoustics.ca/ 
For the past ten years, they have been cultivating their own unique world/roots music, with a lively upbeat Mediterranean sound. Continue reading →

Four Sundays in November (Special Concert Series at Artword Artbar):
*November 6: Emma Rush, classical guitar
*November 13: Allison Brown, roots songstress, folk, alt-country, gospel, blues and original tunes. With Spark Society opening set.
*November 20: Trio Arjento, jazz-based trio (piano, guitar, vocals), with originals and standards
*November 27: What the Folk, celtic songs and music, and more.
All concerts start at 7:30, at Artword Artbar 15 Colbourne

Saturday November 12 at 8 pm, $10. Former Nylons frontman, showman Micah Barnes is back with “I Heart Hamilton”. Micah Barnes, known for his powerhouse singing, emotional stage presence and acclaimed songwriting is back to his first love, the intimate Cabaret show. Opening for Micah is the wonderful local trio of singers  “The MJs“: Mark Tharme – vocals, guitar; Judy Boswell – vocals, percussion; MJ Russell – vocals, keyboard, percussion
Following the release of Domesticated, Micah returns to a city dear to his heart to perform a special solo show that celebrates the joys of falling in love and the complications of relationships. Micah’s unique open hearted style marries his own confessional pop with a witty modern take on cabaret.  An acclaimed songwriter with three solo CDs and a repertoire of brilliant love songs he has been interpreting for years, Micah will be accompanying himself on the piano and feature songs from Domesticated, American Standards Songbook,  R & B chestnuts and of course some old Nylons favorites.   Audiences are still discovering his ability to wow a crowd with nothing but his voice, a piano and a truly great song. Continue reading →

Sunday November 13 at 7:30 pm, $10 (part of “Four Sundays in November” concert series) Roots songstress Allison Brown, on tour from down Windsor way, likes her religion a little bit gritty, takes her country music with a side of syrup and keeps her folk as dusty as the ol’ cabin floor. Allison’s crafted originals matched with classic roots repertoire reflect the striking conviction she brings to her sweet and powerful singing. 
Opening for Allison is Spark Society, a Hamilton folk-post-punk band of multi-instrumentalists/ vocalists, including: Ruth-Anne Baldry, Tyler Van Holst, Casey Bucher, Byron Harrison, David Baldry, Seth Veenstra, Bonnie Sutherland.

Thursday November 17 at 8 pm, cover $10. A night of beautiful roots guitar and song with Sam Turton, plus a guest set by finger-picker extraordinaire Alfie Smith. Guelph’s Sam Turton delivers a roots-blues-gospel gumbo packed with slide guitar and the soul-fired harmonies of Jane Lewis and Tricia Brubacher.  “AT HOME was recorded with the guitar and piano in the living room, the drums in the dining room, the bass in the front hall, the accordion in the kitchen, the singers in the upstairs hallway, the tube compressors in the office, the savoury soup on the stove and wires winding everywhere! By playing and singing these songs all together in the Turton-Lewis homestead, the joy and energy of good friends making music comes alive. Come out and join the AT HOME experience!”
 “The honesty and integrity of the man comes out with every soulful note he sings.” Andrew Craig – CBC Radio 2 host and producer.   http://www.samturton.com/

Friday November 18, at 8:30 pm, $5. Tiny Bill Cody, singer songwriter guitarist like no other, is back at Artword Artbar.  He will play intimately and energetically with his friends, including vocalist Fehn Foss and drummer Jeff Griffiths.

Thursday December 1 at 8 pm, $5. Singer-songwriter Anthony Damiao from Waterloo has put together an evening of innovative young song makers. http://www.myspace.com/anthonydamiao.
The evening includes
Dan Belgue: http://www.theblackwoodtwo.com/ ;
Betty Supple: www.myspace.com/bettysupple ;
Sara Hebert is completing her first EP.

Friday December 2 at 8 pm, $5. Singer-songwriter Fred D. Smith is back on stage, with his own blend of country-flavoured blues and folk-rock. Joining him is local poet legend Jack Street. 
Fred says: “Come on out for a night of singer/songwriter music as I jump back on stage after a lengthy hiatus, some new songs some old songs and one helluva good time!!! Come and enjoy the humour and wit of Hamilton poet Jack Street who will be opening for me as you absorb the friendly atmosphere of the Artword Artbar. Cheers ! ” http://www.myspace.com/freddsmith

Saturday December 3 at 8 pm, $10. Two of Artword Artbar’s favourite performers are back. Singer-songwriter Matthew de Zoete, and his band, gives a concert before his European tour. Combining pop, rock, and folk music, Matthew writes songs built on strong melodies and honest lyrics. Ranging from simple ballads to joyful pop revelries, his music favours beauty over bravado. www.matthewdezoete.com
Singer-songwriter Kori Pop will provide a lovely musical start to the evening. Kori is a “little bit Joni Mitchell, and a little bit Mary Poppins”. www.koripop.com

Friday January 20, 2012, at 8 pm, $8 advance $10 at door. An evening of soul music with Kojo “Easy” Damptey and his band, celebrating his new EP. Opening set is by singer-songwriter Tafadwa Mzofa of the African acapella group “Voices of the Savannah”.
Kojo “Easy” Damptey is a music producer, song writer, keyboardist, and composer. His music deals with the ups and downs of life and the struggles everyday people face. With honest lyrics and a groove based on his love for hip-hop and reggae his music is bound to make you move and listen. In 2011 he released “Broken Promises” a song dedicated to all the women around the world who are survivors of domestic violence.  The release of the song notched him a nomination for the R&B/Soul Record of the year at the 2011 Hamilton Music Awards. He was also nominated for the City of Hamilton Arts Awards for the Category of Music.  www.easythepianoman.com

Thursday February 9, at 8 pm, $5. LIES, FABLES, OLD WIVES TALES – A singer/songwriter showcase with Sarah Beatty, Jesse T. Reid, Pete Tremblay, and Adam Webster. Having crafted some of Niagara’s finest musical lies, fables, and old wives tales, four musically diverse indie singer/songwriters will be offering up a jam-packed singer / songwriter showcase with their most recent musical works.
Sarah Beatty, currently a PhD candidate in the School of Geography and Earth Sciences, is best known for her insightful lyrics and sweet and lilting melodies wrapped in salty roots guitar. www.myspace.com/sarahbeattylive
Jesse T. Reid (pronounced “reed”) is a well-known folk / country player in the Niagara Region. His storytelling songs of textured lives will knock you over just as you’re about to catch your breath: http://www.jessereid.com/
Pete Tremblay, of “Pete Tremblay and the Boozy Truth” infamy uses acoustic guitar, catchy melodies, and a sharp wit to sculpt indie-folk-rock tunes that having been winning over audiences for years. : http://www.reverbnation.com/theboozytruth
Adam Webster, originally from Creemore / Collingwood, writes funk & r&b influenced music. A founding member of “the Funky Truth,” and one of the most soulful voices and adept guitarists on the block, Adam conjures up images and musical impressions that last for days: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Uj9zpPBhLk

Thursday February 16, 2012 at 8 pm, $15. An intimate solo concert with the renowned David Essig, one of the founding members of Canada’s Roots Music scene. Dave is a songwriting bluesman who’s traveled the world and is now coming back to his old hometown. Be ready for an evening of great songs, great blues and searing slide guitar that puts him in a class with Ry Cooder and David Lindley.   www.davidessig.com
Dave writes, “I’m an old Hamilton boy – used to live on Guise St. in the North End and worked a lot at Grant Ave. Also have done Festival of Friends lots of times over the years.” David, from BC, is on tour in Ontario with a new CD “Rolling Fork to Gallows Point“, and will appear at Winterfolk Festival in Toronto.
Hamilton singer-songwriter Mark McNeil (and David Essig fan) warms us up with an opening set. Continue reading →

Friday February 17 at 8 pm, $5 cover goes to Out Of The Cold. One of our favourite Hamilton singer-songwriters (and one of the best), Dave Pomfret is back  at Artword Artbar for a special concert “30 Years, 30 Songs”. Special guests! Dougy Flyswatter, Mike Trebilcock, Paula Grove, Orange McFarland, HOPEFULLY Gene Champagne. February 2012 marks 30 years of Dave playing guitar and writing songs (yes, he started young!). http://www.reverbnation.com/davepomfret

Sunday February 19 at 7:30 pm, $5 or PWYC. A special concert of original compositions by chamber trio Euphonic: Bob Wegner – acoustic guitar, Geoff Ball – cello; Vincent Waters – drums / spoons. Consisting of all acoustic instruments (cello, guitar, and drums), the band has created an eclectic sound of their own, which includes Classical, Spanish, Folk, and Jazz influences.   http://www.vincewaters.com

Bob first met Geoff, a local cellist from McMaster University, while performing at the Staircase Cafe in Hamilton. Vince and Geoff were later introduced via Bob, and a few tunes were written as a trio with Geoff playing electric bass at first. As an experimental move, the suggestion was made for Geoff to bring his cello to a writing session. Continue reading →

Thursday February 23 at 8 pm, $10 or pwyc: Fundraiser for The Steeltown Friends of Mohawk Music. Jazz with the Carolyn Credico Quartet, featuring  Chris Bruder on piano, Victor Vrankulj on bass, Jordan Snider on drums, and Carolyn Credico vocals, plus special guest Mike Malone trumpet. Join us at the Artword Artbar for an evening of live jazz, food & drink and good company.  100% of the proceeds will be donated to The Steeltown Friends of Mohawk Music, a non-profit organization focused on enriching the Mohawk music program.

Saturday February 25, 2012 at 8 pm, $10. A dynamic, intimate evening  with Rockin’ Elana Harte (with the fabulous Lucio Agostini), plus guests AndrewVictoria, in a celebration of song.  Stand alone each performer commands the stage and delights with their interactive and engaging work and tonight they team up pure magic…
A gifted guitarist and vocalist, Elana maintains a “New Country / Rock” flavour and mass appeal. Elana is a founding member of Vinnick, Sheppard, Harte, with whom she has released two recordings. Among many other projects, Elana is a busy host of several regular showcase evenings in the GTA for both local and touring musicians. http://www.elanaharte.com    http://itsmyurls.com/elanaharte

Australian Native Andrew Rudd and Canadian-born Australian Victoria Boland met in Hong Kong in late-2005. Now, several years later, the duo, currently residing in Hamilton, have toured internationally performing hundreds of dates for thousands of people. A combination of powerful vocals and guitar-driven indie pop-rock alternative, AndrewVictoria co-write songs that dig deep into realistic, everyday issues. Their self-titled EP received a nomination for Best Pop Recording of the Year for 2011’s Hamilton Music Awards. http://www.andrewvictoria.com/

Wednesday February 29 (Sadie Hawkins Day), 8 pm, free. Special open mic and jam, with Jennifer Lockman, Paula Grove, and some surprise guests, w. host Ron the Fiddler.

SOLD OUT! Saturday March 3 at 8 pm, at Artword Artbar, $15 door ($10 advance call 905-543-8512 to book). A rare, intimate evening of song with  Jude Johnson on vocals, Carl Horton on piano and Mike Malone on trumpet and flugelhorn.
Here is Jude’s description: “This is classic jazz gleaned from the American songbook as well as a few original songs interspersed throughout the evening from Jude’s eight released recordings.
Jude Johnson is Hamilton’s music Ambassador and in the Gallery of Distinction. She is also the Director of the MAD creative art school.
Carl Horton is the Musical Director of the world renowned Follies and on the faculty of Mohawk college. He is one of the finest pianist anywhere.
Mike Malone is renowned for his amazing sound and sensitivity to his instrument. He recently retired from Mohawk College Music Dept. and has played with everyone who is anyone in the jazz world. A master musician.”
www.judejohnson.ca          www.carlhorton.ca
www.canadianjazzarchive.org/en/musicians/mike-malone.html

Wednesday March 7 at 8 pm, $5. Anthony Damiao is back, with another great evening of talented singer-songwriters in the area. The evening’s bill of fare includes:
Country-folk songwriter from Guelph Richard Laviolette: “His  lyrics are brilliant scraps of paper. Letters written home. He sings about death, anti-colonial struggle and long distance relationships. His voice carries audience’s hearts somewhere else, so their feet can’t be moved and they are forced to stand where they are and just listen.” http://radio3.cbc.ca/artists/Richard-Laviolette
Sarah Mangle:  “Sarah Mangle’s name is a sarah and a verb. It can be used in a sentence. Lately Sarah mangles pop, she’s also mangled folk music and experimental stuff with lots of strings and sounds. (Wet nose hero) Her most recent music combines the euphonium and organ and drums.”  http://www.myspace.com/buysabear
Sarah Beatty is best known for her insightful lyrics and sweet and lilting melodies wrapped in salty roots guitar. www.myspace.com/sarahbeattylive
Anthony Damiao. http://www.myspace.com/anthonydamiao.

Thursday March 15 at 8 pm, pwyc. An A-Jam of alt music, hosted by Tanacetum Vulgare and her band.

Wednesday March 21 at 8 pm, cover tba. Latin Jazz by Grapevine featuring Christina Dee on vibraphone and Giulio “Drummer with Attitude!” . The vibraphone was popularized by jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Milt Jackson, Red Norvo and Gary Burton.  It is rarely played these days. Now another chance to hear Hamilton’s own vibraphonist Christina Dee.  http://www.grapevinemusic.ca/

Thursday March 22 at 8 pm, tip jar. “From Berlin to Brazil”, an evening of cabaret with music and songs performed by Paula Grove vocals, Jennifer Lockman piano, Orange McFarland standup bass.

Thursday March 29 at 8 pm, $15 ($10 advance 905-543-8512). The Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra, fabulous folk band from Victoria on tour lands at Artword Artbar. Ian Griffiths lead vocals, accordion; Kurt Loewen lead vocals, guitar; Patrick M’Gonigle vocals, violin, mandolin; Peter Mynett vocals, stand up bass; Paul Wolda vocals, percussion. “Gypsy Ska meets Bluegrass!” http://thetequilamockingbirdorchestra.com
AND opening for the TMO is the Ever-Lovin’ Jug Band — duo Brad Levia (arch-top, slide guitar, vocals) and Julia Narveson (gut-tub bass, bass, fiddle, banjolin, vocals). Brad and Julia, now in Waterloo, are both former members of Lake of Stew folk band. We tracked them down and are delighted to have them back on our stage. http://everlovinjugband.com/ Continue reading →

Friday, March 30, 2012, from 8 pm on. The Highnote Ramblers bring you a blend of rockabilly, 50’s R & B, old country, and original songs. Featuring Mimi Shaw (vocals and rhythm guitar), Jeff Rosnick (lead guitar), Brian Hay (keyboard) and Jeff Griffiths (drums). Listen here to “Niagara” written by Mimi Shaw http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBSAEA7crA0

Saturday March 31 at 8 pm, $15 at door, $10 advance call 905-543-8512 to reserve. Another hot evening of dynamite bluegrass music with virtuoso mandolin player Randal Hill (mandolin and vocals).  On guitar and vocals, the rock-steady Johnny Frame. On stand-up bass and vocals,  John McNaughton. On banjo, one of the finest blue grass banjoists on the planet, Charlie Street.

Wednesday April 4 at 8 pm, $5. “A Good Ruckus”, folk-band showcase featuring A Yellow Field, a four-piece Indie-grass band from Waterloo, Dave Pike, Neil Kostecki, Sara Hebert, Joey Bell, playing — ukelele, banjo, mandolin, guitar, melodica, stompbox, upright bass, banjoline, autoharp, harmonica, accordion, kazoo, tambourine, floor tom, shakers and more. Adding to the “Ruckus”: ‘Uncle’ Dan Henshall (mandolin, banjo, etc) and The Nephews. Plus a guest set by a new Hamilton folk-band The Just Jams: Trevor – Vocals/Mandolin; Gordo – Guitar; Chris – Banjo; Matt – Bass Guitar; Drew – Drums; Pat – Guitar http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Just-Jams/183830498387875
A Yellow Field: “We stomp. We holler. We swear a little too. We rant about quantum physics and tell banjo jokes. We have families and friends. We laugh. We pause,… and sometimes keep going. We jam. We procrastinate. We pour our hearts into it. We are A YELLOW FIELD.”http://www.ayellowfield.com

Thursday April 5, 2012, 8:00 pm, pwyc, at Artword Artbar. Catherine North Studio’s new monthly series, “Lost and Found,” will feature old friends and newly discovered talent. From pop rock to contemporary classical, the Catherine North folks would like to show Hamilton the amazing diversity of great music that gets recorded in this city. To kick off the series Paul Federici, Deanna Wells (of Ophelia Syndrome), David James Martinez, and Adam Michael will perform. The evening has been put together by Michael Chambers of Catherine North Studio.  http://catherinenorth.com/lostandfound

Wednesday April 11, 2012 at 8 pm, $10. A singer-songwriter showcase hosted by Anthony Damiao. Featured is 6-piece folk band Little City: Thom Macfarlane percussion, Dave Clarke bass, Trevor Kai keys and accordion, Jordan Axani and Shaun Axani guitars, Frances Miller vocals. http://www.littlecityband.com/
“Little City stole the show during Canadian Music Week.” -The Sound of Pop CMW Review. “Little City: sounding as exuberant as their inspirations were original.” – NOW Magazine. “The Torontonian six-piece are fresh, dedicated and smooth.” -Round Letters EP review. “One of the best upcoming folk/pop groups in our country.”-Forget the Box EP Review.
Also on the bill two singer-songwriters doing solo sets: Shawn Clarke www.shawnclarkemusic.com and Sarah Mangle.

Saturday April 14 at 8 pm, cover tip jar. Singer-songwriter Mark McNeil performs an evening of roots-based music with percussionist Jeff Griffiths featuring songs from Mark’s newly released CD, Shiny Things and Other Distractions, co-written with Kris Rochard.  www.shinythingspage.wordpress.com and http://markmcneilandkrisrochard.bandcamp.com
The evening also features virtuoso Ottawa fingerstyle guitarist Steve Parisien who will perform a collection of instrumental originals and standards. If you enjoy the playing of Chet Atkins, Joe Pass or Lenny Breau, you’ll love Steve. http://music.cbc.ca/#/artists/Steve-parisien and http://www.reverbnation.com/steveparisien

Shiny Things and Other Distractions, has been described as “a journey through something bluesy, mixed with adult contemporary and tied together with an alternative country rock twang” Continue reading →

Sunday April 15 at 7:30 pm, cover $5. The wonderful “What The Folk?” are back, a multi-talented group of seven singers/instrumentalists. They play a range of folk-based and classical music, ranging from instrumental celtic pieces to a capella songs with full-blown four-or-more-part harmonies. They play traditional tunes, songs of war, and covers of more recent artists like Stan Rogers and Great Big Sea. Who are “What The Folk?”: Geoff Ball guitar, cello, vocals; Graeme Ball vocals, violin; Len Ball vocals, violin; Terry Ball vocals, violin, guitar, viola; Caroline Olsen vocals, violin, viola; Carolyn Reid vocals, flute.
Also part of the evening is stand-up bass player Orange McFarland.
PLUS an opening set by singer-songwriter Adam Carter.

Friday April 20 at 8 pm, $10. Ophelia Syndrome, an experimental five piece band from Hamilton, launches their new album ‘all things forgotten‘, plus an opening set by songstress Kori Pop.  Ophelia Syndrome — Trina Nadeau (cello), Deanna Wells (vocals, keyboards),  Adrian McFarlane (drums), Josh Kohler (bass, backing vocals), Andrew Barbisan (guitar, lap steel, backing vocals) — layers cello, lap steel, vintage keyboards, and male and female vocal harmonies over a foundation of guitar, bass and drums. The result is Ophelia Syndrome’s own unique brand of rock, folk, and jazz. Building on the success of their 2009 ‘Shades of Grey’ EP, Ophelia Syndrome successfully fan-funded their debut full length album ‘all things forgotten’.