Artword Artbar

Saturday October 6 at 8 pm, $5. Singer-songwriter Dan Medakovic (of Fry Truck) returns to Artword Artbar for his first Hamilton solo performance since 2011! Dan will be performing 2 sets of original music spanning his 30 years of song writing, including several songs written during his recent 6 month adventure in Costa Rica. An acclaimed writer, singer and multi-instrumentalist, Dan will accompany himself on acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin and ukulele. Joining Dan for a set of songs will be The Small Fries: Linda Duemo on drums and Carrie Ashworth on bass guitar – both fellow members of Hamilton super group Fry Truck. Dan’s “Honeybucket” CD received excellent reviews and was compared to the works of Bob Dylan, Van Morrison and (local) Ray Materick. It is available as a free download here:   http://www.reverbnation.com/danmedakovic

Opening for Dan will be Toronto singer-songwriter Tim Magwood with Dan Roth. Tim Magwood’s music is country/roots/folk. His songwriting is engaging and energizing. His tenor voice and range has a similar quality to Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo. The writing and genre is varied and influenced by Ryan Adams, Martin Sexton, Mark Knopfler and James Taylor. It is soulful, highly melodic and easy to listen to. His first album, Zig Zag Bridge, was produced in 2010 and is available on Itunes. He is completing his second album, Endless Sky, which will be launched in January 2013. At Artword Artbar he will be joined by one of his writing collaborators, Dan Roth.  http://timmagwood.com/

Friday October 5 at 8 pm, $15. Scott Cooper, and his band on a CD Release Tour, plus a set by Paul Federici. Penetanguishene-based singer/songwriter Scott Cooper is in town to celebrate the release of his 4th full-length LP “Quiet Company”. Cooper will be backed by an ace backing band of  Dean Drouillard (Sarah Harmer), Adam Warner (Royal Wood), and Steve Zsirai (Jill Barber) . www.scottcoopermusic.com
Niagara-region singer/songwriter Paul Federici will be kicking off the night with a solo set. www.paulfederici.ca      www.paulfedericimusic.bandcamp.com
In September 2012, Cooper releases his fourth full-length album “Quiet Company”, produced by collaborator and friend Rob Szabo (Peter Katz, Ian Sherwood). Recorded in a rustic cabin over the winter months of 2011 and 2012, the low-key performances clearly demonstrate how environment and headspace can influence a sound. Cooper explains, “The cabin belongs to my in-laws and it’s one of my favourite places to hang out, so we would just set up the gear, crank up the wood stove and work for days. Outside of using an outhouse in February, it was the most comfortable recording experience I’ve ever had.”

Thursday October 4, 2012, 8:00 pm, pwyc. Catherine North Studio’s monthly series, “Lost and Found,” features 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.  The showcase evenings are put together by Dan Hosh and Michael Chambers of Catherine North Studio.  http://catherinenorth.com
Line-up for Thurs Oct 4:
Lauren Campbell 8:45pm
Darren Eedens 9:30pm
Still Life 10:15pm

CANCELLED due to filming on Colbourne Street Sat Sept 29 and Sun Sept 30. “RoboCop” night scene in the Faema lane and right in front of Artword Artbar, with rain machines, gunshots and the works. We won’t be able to get near the place.

CANCELLED Saturday September 29, 2012 at 8 pm, $10. Rockin’ Elana Harte is back, with her favourite guests AndrewVictoria, in a celebration of song.
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. Continue reading →

Thursday September 27, 2012, 7:30-9:30 pm, pwyc ($5-$10 suggested) SINGALONG with Sam Turton and Jane Lewis, singer-songwriters from Guelph. Come out and SING!  They’ve got songbooks full of classic favourites — YOU request the songs, and we all sing them together. Led by Jane Lewis and Sam Turton.    http://www.all-together-now.ca  Tell your friends because — the more, the merrier. Hundreds of songs – songbooks provided: Over 100 great artists, including  The Band, The Beatles, Chuck Berry, Continue reading →

Saturday September 22 at 8 pm, $10. Hit the Road, Matt: Pre-Tour Send Off Concert: Matthew de Zoete (full band) – www.matthewdezoete.com (click left for poster) with special guests: The Woodshed Orchestra – www.thewoodshedorchestra.com
Before heading out on a solo cross-Canada tour this fall, Matthew will be playing one last “send off” show with his band: Andrew Barbisan (drums and harmonies), Jennifer Lockman (keys and harmonies), and Eric Thachuk (bass). Matthew’s latest album Colour Film was produced by Les Cooper (Jill Barber, Good Lovelies) and houses the songwriter’s trademark strong melodies and honest lyrics in a gorgeous atmospheric soundscape. Imagine Nick Drake cheering up a bit and living long enough to work with Beck.
The Woodshed Orchestra is an ecstatic soul/funk/pop big-band whose virtuoso musicians and theatrical performances make for pretty much the most fun you can have, either alone or with others.

Wednesday September 19 at 8 pm, pwyc. An evening of Alt Music hosted by singer-songwriter Tom Dusome. Guests: Tancetum Vulgare, and Design. Tom Dusome is back to host this new music spotlight. Tancetum vulgare and Design. Two new acts will be joining him for this incredible evening.  Tansy will be promoting their recent release. tanacetumvulgare.bandcamp.com
Design will be previewing pieces from their upcoming album. (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Design/182050301906953)
Tom Dusome will be previewing new songs and showing off some old so come out and sing your heart out! www.myspace.com/tomdusomeband

Thursday September 13 at 8 pm, sliding scale $2-$10. Singer-songwriter showcase hosted by Richard Garvey, a roots and folk musician from Kitchener    www.richardgarvey.ca
Guests include Amy Carson Hunter, a folk singer-songwriter currently in Waterloo. http://www.myspace.com/amycarsonhunter
and Tom Dusome, singer-songwriter and Alt Music Night host now & then at Artword (see Sept 19). And special guest Uncle Dan Henshall on mandolin, guitar, etc.

Saturday September 8, open from 6 pm to 11:30 or so. Ron and Judith are back from the wide world and are tuning up the fiddles and guitars. Drop in and say hello, hear about our travels, tell us about yours, join in a tune or two. Beers taps are back on.
Unfortunately, plans for a Tribal Gallery concert on this date did not work out, and there was no time to set up something else. So we are just hanging out.

Friday September 7 at 8 pm, $10. A double bill, Heather Hill and LilyC, two fine singer-songwriters on tour with new albums.
About Heather: Rooted in piano rock, singer songwriter Heather Hill is touring her newly released second album “Leuty Station”. The new collection of songs speak to how women make it through life’s trials with strength and grace. Her music has the percussive quality of Fiona Apple and the vocal phrasing sensibilities of Kate Bush. www.heatherhill.ca
About LilyC: Spreading happy vibes with a fresh pop sound, Lily C’s sophomore album “Reaching for Sunlight” captures the heart and story of anyone courageously pursuing their dreams. Her voice has the delicate authenticity of Jewel and the passion of Nelly Furtado. She will give you the courage to launch your own dream adventure. www.lilyc.com

Thursday September 6, 2012, 8:00 pm, pwyc. Catherine North Studio’s monthly series, “Lost and Found,” is back at Artword Artbar for the fall 2012, featuring 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.  The showcase evenings are put together by Michael Chambers of Catherine North Studio.  Line-up for Sept 6:
Nabi Loney @ 8:00pm
Hachey The MouthPEACE @ 8:45pm
Stone Orchard @ 9:30pm
Kenny Phelps @ 10:15pm
http://catherinenorth.com/lostandfound

Wednesday July 11 at 8 pm, cover $5. The Onion Honey duo from Waterloo play banjos and other things.  Esther Wheaton and David Pike started playing music together around the same time they started cooking together and watching dozens of astronomy documentaries together; the result is a deliciously stellar blend of old-time and jug-band music that will tug at heartstrings and set feet a-tappin’. Both Esther and Dave are also part of Banjos and Bellows, and Dave is also in A Yellow Field. http://soundcloud.com/onion-honey
Also on the bill are two folk singer-songwriters Brendan J Stephens and Sarah Beatty.  https://www.facebook.com/BrendanJStephensMusic and http://brendanjstephens.bandcamp.com/album/my-name-is-brendan-j-stephens
Sarah Beatty occupies the space between country, blues, jazz, and roots music, with dynamic vocals, expressive lyrics, and engaging melodies.

Friday July 6 at 8 pm, pwyc. Singer-songwriter Paul Federici (who appeared at Artword Artbar in the first Catherine North Studio showcase) is back for a full evening, with special guest Beth Moore. Paul is on tour with a new album: “Paul Federici’s Relative Importance is nice. Really nice. Tender, even: there’s tender guitar strumming, tender strings, with a tender chorus of Federici’s angelic harmonies. Especially heartstring tugging are ‘True’ and ‘Without You,’ a spare little ditty fingerpicked for some estranged love.” (Exclaim Magazine)
www.paulfederici.ca      www.paulfedericimusic.bandcamp.com

Beth Moore has been writing and performing her beautiful interpretation of modern folk since 2006. With her roots in Niagara Falls, Canada she quickly gained hometown recognition and has since built a name for herself in Toronto and Southern Ontario. She has played over 200 live shows including festivals like Scene Fest, In the Soil, and Toronto’s Indie Week. Her song writing has been praised as honest, to the point and from the heart. Listeners quickly draw into its intimacy. “I write about what I know, and I do it as honestly as I know how,” says Beth. www.bethmooremusic.com

Thursday July 5, 2012, 8pm, pwyc, at Artword Artbar. Catherine North Studios’ monthly series, “Lost and Found,” features 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.
Thursday July 5 lineup: Alex Frank, Negar, Adam Bentley, Danny Gorman
The evening has been put together by Michael Chambers of Catherine North. http://catherinenorth.com/lostandfound

Friday June 29 at 8 pm, $10, at Artword Artbar. Two solo acts Jeffery Straker and Paisley Jura, both singing their songs and playing our piano.
Jeffery Straker is a singer-pianist in the vein of Sarah Slean, Harry Chapin, early Elton. Jeffery tours extensively (about 120 shows a year – coast to coast). His shows range from solo to full band. He debuted at the National Arts Centre last year (Ottawa), recently came back from a tour in Africa (Ghana), and had his debut with a symphony in Oct 2011 (Regina SK).  His last album was released in June 2011 and he has a new one launching Sept 2012. http://jeffstraker.com/
Paisley Jura was nominated for a Juno this year and is also a singer-pianist. She also performs on double bass and guitar in her sets. She has an album out with a song that is getting extensive radio play in Canada right now including CBC.  http://www.paisleyjura.com/

Thursday June 28, 2012, 7:30-9:30 pm, pwyc ($5-$10 suggested) SINGALONG with Sam Turton and Jane Lewis, singer-songwriters from Guelph. Come out and SING!  They’ve got songbooks full of classic favourites — YOU request the songs, and we all sing them together. Led by Jane Lewis and Sam Turton.    http://www.all-together-now.ca  Tell your friends because — the more, the merrier. Hundreds of songs – songbooks provided: Over 100 great artists, including  The Band, The Beatles, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Continue reading →

Wednesday June 20 at 8:30 pm (after Science Cafe), a foot-stomping night of jug band music with the Griffintown Jug Addicts, that is, three of them: Dan Livingstone (fingerstyle blues guitarist), Brad Levia (washboard) and Julia Narveson (washtub). http://danlivingstone.com/jug.html  “Drawing inspiration from ‘jug’ bands of the 1930s and 40s (a blues style mixing ragtime, swing and folk music), the group re-creates the ambiance of that lost era in music when simplicity and fun were paramount to the making of music.”
Brad and Julia, now based in Waterloo, are also a duo The Ever-Lovin’ Jug Band: http://www.everlovinjugband.ca/
PLUS ‘Uncle’ Dan Henshall, old-timey mandolin picker, with vocalist Addie Em.

Friday June 15, at 8:30 pm, pwyc.  Oh yes, we have a show for you! The full band Beg to Differ — Tim Ninehouse piano, keyboards, vocals; Doug Sikma guitar; Steve Foster drums. are on board for a lively concert of blues, jazz and funk songs, drawing from a large musical repertoire from early blues roots to jazzified contemporary songs.

Oh no! Tiny Bill Cody is laid low with laryngitis. He won’t be performing tonight. Tiny Bill Cody, singer songwriter guitarist like no other, will be back at Artword Artbar to do this show in the fall, we hope.

Thursday June 14 at 8 pm, $10. Concert featuring Fred Magie, with Darin Martin and Social Animals. Dundas singer songwriter Fred Magie’s latest release entitled “Window to the World” lead to a Hamilton Music Award Nomination for “Adult Alternative Recording of the Year”. Fred sounds a lot like Neil Young and Ron Sexsmith who are easily his greatest influences. http://fredmagie.com/home.cfm
Darin Martin is a singer-songwriter from Hamilton who writes songs and tells stories that are real and honest. With interesting melodies and passionate lyrics, he captures his audience and invites them to relate to his stories of brokenness, loss and hope.  http://darinmartinmusic.com/Darin_Martin_Music/home.html
Social Animals, rhythm and blues duo Chris and Christa Bradbury are presently recording their debut album ‘Innominate’, at Hamilton’s Studio J (with owner/producer Jordan Abraham). Social Animals, headed up by vocalist Christa Bradbury, offer a soulful vocal driven modern rock and blues sound as only Christa can deliver it!

Thursday June 7, 2012, 8pm, pwyc, at Artword Artbar. Catherine North Studios’ monthly series, “Lost and Found,” features 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.
On June 7 Kori Pop, Jay Macedo, Jonny Debt, and Darryl Webster will perform
The evening has been put together by Michael Chambers of Catherine North. http://catherinenorth.com/lostandfound

Wednesday June 6 at 8 pm, $5. Hayley Roscoe performs songs from her new CD.

Saturday June 2 at 8 pm, $10. In concert: Queen Cee, Unplugged and Intimate, an Acoustic Soul-filled Session. Artword Artbar is delighted to host the extraordinary Queen Cee, the queen of Soul and R&B in Hamilton, playing an intimate concert. With Jennifer Lockman piano, Adam Bowman percussion, and special guest harpist Rachel Nolan.  Queen Cee has received honours such as the award for best R&B/Soul Recording of the Year at 2008 Hamilton Music Awards and selected with her husband Eklipz, as Hamilton’s Most Inspiring and Influential People. She is very much involved in the community. Two years ago she started an initiative group called “When Sistahs Get Together”, a multicultural women’s group that focuses on the upliftment of women and a club for young girls called Be-You-tiful Girls Club that focuses on helping to nourish their self-esteem, their self-worth, their present & future goals, while building new friendships.  www.whensistahsgettogether.com    www.be-you-tifulgirlsclub.com
Queen Cee’s site as Soul/R&B recording artist. actress:  www.myspace.com/queenceemusic

Friday June 1, 2012, at 8 pm, $10. Two solo sets by two folk-roots musicians on the road! String Bone (also known as Barry James Payne) is a great songwriter and tells a great story in a song, folk/roots Americana style. A mix of folk, blues, country, bluegrass, hillbilly and even other contemporary and traditional elements harder to define. String Bone’s song, ‘Killing Town’, made it onto Neil Young’s ‘Living With War Today’ campaign. Payne has been playing and writing since the early ’80’s and released his debut CD ‘nadir’ in 2009. ‘nadir’ was labeled “truly a masterpiece” by Music Star in Germany where String Bone toured after its release. Payne introduces his intimate songs with often comical and touching stories. He paints portraits with his words. Payne changes the colour of his pallet from emotional folk and country ballads to uptempo alt.country and bluesy, smoky, jazzy grooves. www.stringbone.ca
Roots songstress Allison Brown, back our way again, 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. Allison Brown  www.allisonbrown.ca

Saturday May 19 at 8 pm, $10. The Woodshed Orchestra is back! Dave Clark and his zany band of merry musicians. Plus an opening set by Joe Lapinski, singer-songwriter from St. Catharines.
The Woodshed Orchestra will bring its soulful musical reflections on Love & Affection! You just bring yourself and a couple of friends. Come sing, dance and celebrate with the Woodshed. Your heart will thank you. 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.
For more on Joe Lapinski (left), who is also Music Director of Suitcase-in-Point Theatre Company, visit www.joelapinski.ca

Wednesday May16 at 8 pm, $5. A special treat from Nova Scotia, duo Andy and Ariana, playing an original, acoustic fusion of roots, folk, jazz and world music. While Ariana weaves words and melodies interspersing fiddle and saxophone riffs, Andy vocalizes percussion, plays guitar, and operates parts of a drum kit with his heels. The result is a lively one, guaranteed to entertain.  http://www.AndyandAriana.com Continue reading →

Thursday May 10, 8 pm, $5. A showcase hosted by Curtis Miranda of Tiger Suit, with guests Sean Chesney and The Tyler Wilson Band. Tiger Suit is a duo from from Guelph. Their music is an blend of world (Classical South Indian, Classical Japanese, Mongolian Overtone singing, etc…), jazz, lounge and electronica.  http://www.tigersuit.com

Wednesday May 9, 2012 at 8 pm, $5. Singer-songwriter showcase hosted by Richard Garvey. Featuring: Molly Babin from Hamilton (right) Soundcloud.com/mollybabin
The Blackwood Two from Waterloo, Dan Belgue and Megan McCaffrey, one of the countries most fun folk acts — with sunny fiddles and banjos, the duo blends elements of straight up old time music with their original, foot stompin’ feel good compositions to create an irresistible and infectious new sound they dub “old time street folk!” www.theblackwoodtwo.com
and Richard Garvey, a roots and folk musician from Kitchener    www.richardgarvey.ca

Thursday May 3, 2012, 8pm, pwyc, at Artword Artbar. Catherine North Studios’ monthly series, “Lost and Found,” features 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.
On May 3 Scott Cooper, Ian Smith (Miniatures/Spirits/Animal Heart), Amber Edgar, and Kirk Starkey will perform. The evening has been put together by Michael Chambers of Catherine North. http://catherinenorth.com/lostandfound

Saturday April 28 at 8 pm, $5. A double solo concert by two fine singer-songwriters: Edgar Breau and Christopher Roberts.
Edgar Breau brings us his new folky-pop-roots CD Patches of Blue. Here is a review from Hamilton Blues Lover: “One thing you won’t find a lot of on Edgar Breau’s latest CD, patches of blue is repetition. The local singer/songwriter covers a whole lot of ground in just 12 songs. While mainly known as a member of the proto-punk/psych band, Simply Saucer, his solo endeavors are more on the rootsier side. Edgar explores all aspects of the genre: folk, country, blues, celtic, and much more. Every single song has a unique spirit. Highlights include the trippy title track, the funky One Kind of Love, the wonderfully folky Dreams of Jack Kerouac, and the island sounds of Maria the Sea and the Sun.” More about Edgar: http://auteurresearch.tumblr.com/edgarbreau  http://www.babysue.com/2012-March-LMNOP-Reviews.html#anchor471983

Christopher Roberts (of Modern Field Recordings) is the other half of the double bill, bringing us his original solo take on the world. http://music.cbc.ca/#/bands/modern-field-recordings

Thursday May 31, 2012, 7:30-9:30 pm, pwyc ($5-$10 suggested)
SINGALONG with Sam & Jane! is back. Sam Turton and Jane Lewis, singer-songwriters from Guelph, introduced their Singalong project to us in March. We thought you’d like it, and you do. Tell your friends, because — the more the merrier. Here’s how it works:
Come out and SING!  We’ve got songbooks full of classic favourites — YOU request the songs, and we all sing them together. Led by Jane Lewis and Sam Turton.    http://www.all-together-now.ca  Continue reading →

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’.

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.

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 →

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.

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 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

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.

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

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 →

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.

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

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.

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 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.

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/

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.

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 →

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

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 →

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

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

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 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

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 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 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/

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.

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 →

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 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 →

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 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 →

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

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.

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 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 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 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 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.

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 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).

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.

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.”

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 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

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.

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 →

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!

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 →

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.

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.”

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 →