Taurey Butler; Making His Way – Oscar Peterson Style …Part one

Taurey Butler is a funny guy … He just happens to be one of the best piano players in Montreal and North America. No wonder. He discovered a bond with Oscar Peterson the very first time he listened to one of Peterson’s CDs. A feeling which changed his life. A feeling which is currently changing many people’s lives who have had the pleasure of seeing Taurey Butler … Continue reading Taurey Butler; Making His Way – Oscar Peterson Style …Part one

The Cranes … Osheaga – Here we Come!

Montreal’s The Cranes are on their way … Where? The fabled Osheaga Festival if they have it their way. The Tragically Hip, Zeppelin, Sabbath – influenced boys just need a little love from the hometown crowd. They are The Habs of music … Please listen as lead singer Rich Leduc explains everything needed to know about The Cranes. After that – listen yourself. It does … Continue reading The Cranes … Osheaga – Here we Come!

Kim Mitchell – Hangin’ Out; Part Two

On May 9th at Club Soda – Kim Mitchell is bringing history to the stage. Long before many Canadian artists were introducing a certain ‘sense of ‘Canadian – isms’ to the world; Mitchell had already been there – done that! Wearing thrift store clothes and injecting humor through music -one of Mitchell’s fortes. No wonder The Barenaked Ladies’ Ed Robertson was such a fan … … Continue reading Kim Mitchell – Hangin’ Out; Part Two

Kim Mitchell – Hangin’ Out; Part one

Kim Mitchell will always be known for two songs; ‘Patio Lanterns’ and ‘Go For A Soda’ … A pair of tunes forever immortalized into the Canadian psyche. Unless of course – you are a real music fan. If music is something which envelops your very soul – then Kim Mitchell is more than two songs. Mitchell was the leader in Max Webster – a band … Continue reading Kim Mitchell – Hangin’ Out; Part one

Indoor Program – Montreal Jazzfest 2014

Indoor program of the 35th edition 35 candlesŠ and a thousand musical fireworks! Tickets go on sale Saturday at noon Exclusive pre-sale for Infolettre Spectra subscriber startstomorrow! (subscription is free at infolettrespectra.ca) Montréal, Wednesday, April 23, 2014 – And yes, sparks will fly during the indoor program of this 35th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, presented by TD in collaboration with Rio Tinto Alcan! Sparks will light up our eyes and our … Continue reading Indoor Program – Montreal Jazzfest 2014

You Can Call Me Ray … You Can Call Me Jay – Or you Can Call Me ‘Snooksta’; Part Two

Wednesday is the night to be downtown … Why? That is the evening ‘Snooksta and the Gangstas’ take to the stage at The House of Jazz. They provide rhythm, Blues and Jazz. Combined with a battery section of two old friends, a young and upcoming saxophone player and a beautiful pianist – the band leaves no one empty. Especially the house which George Durst built. … Continue reading You Can Call Me Ray … You Can Call Me Jay – Or you Can Call Me ‘Snooksta’; Part Two

You Can Call Me Ray …You Can Call Me Jay – Or You Can Call Me ‘Snooksta’

Leslie ‘Snooksta’ Alston is a schooled drummer. Not a classroom aficionado but a sidewalk one … On the ‘streets’, paying attention to other musicians is what makes the former ‘Snooky’ great. Playing with Freddie James or singing and drumming on a cruise ship – Leslie is an act worth writing home to … Leslie …?   Visit ‘Snooksta’ Right here!     Continue reading You Can Call Me Ray …You Can Call Me Jay – Or You Can Call Me ‘Snooksta’

Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock; Part Three

In the conclusion (for now) of my talk with Edwin – the pianist discusses his upcoming album launch at Place des Arts as well as working with Jerry Mercer of April Wine fame. His new album is titled; Forever Laughter. A concept not too far removed from Edwin’s personality. Take it away Mr. Brownell …   Visit Edwin Here Here Too!       Continue reading Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock; Part Three

Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock Part One

Edwin Orion Brownell is no ordinary pianist … Classically-raised, classically -trained and a connoisseur of music. The guy exudes passion and love for music done right. Whether he is performing at Place des Arts or before a dozen seniors – Edwin is a pure entertainer. Please listen to part one of my interview as Edwin explains the beginnings of a musical adventure far from complete. … Continue reading Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock Part One

John Beaudine – Livin’ the Blues and All That Jazz; Part Two

In part two of my interview with this tremendous Saxophone player – John explains his experiences and thoughts pertaining to a life-long journey through the world of music … Sometimes – legends are not always in the public eye! John?   Please visit The House of Jazz and John Here!   Continue reading John Beaudine – Livin’ the Blues and All That Jazz; Part Two

Next Week on Rick Keene Music Scene

Looking for stuff to do ….? Angel Forrest has a CD launch at Bistro a Jo Jo tonight. Monkey Junk are playing at L’Astral. John Beaudine is at The House of Jazz tomorrow night and Monday. Just a couple of things to hear in the next couple of days. Please listen to a couple of tracks from some of these people as well as a … Continue reading Next Week on Rick Keene Music Scene