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

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

Top Ten Things Overheard at The Black Sabbath Press Conference in Montreal

So …. Sabbath came and went. Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler held court on Monday au Centre Bell. What happened? What was said? Here now are the Top Ten Things Overheard at the Black Sabbath Press Conference in Montreal. 10. What? 9. What did Ozzy say? 8. I can’t understand what Ozzy is saying … 7. Huh? 6. It’s not me right? It’s … Continue reading Top Ten Things Overheard at The Black Sabbath Press Conference in Montreal

Blackie and The Rodeo Kings; A Surprise!

Tom Wilson and his buddies in Blackie and The Rodeo Kings – loved Willie P. Bennett. So much – they bought the company. Sorta … The band’s name derives from a Bennett song and their first album contained all Bennett covers. Each album ( eight including the new disc South), contains one Willie tune. Safe to say – the band is on the right track. … Continue reading Blackie and The Rodeo Kings; A Surprise!

NEeMA; Leaving the Light On …

Talk about friends in high places … The Dalai Lama? Mother Teresa? Leonard Cohen …? Three highly influential and spiritual people NEeMA has rubbed shoulders with in her relatively  short life. Jealous yet …? Please listen as NEeMA explains how she met Mr. Cohen and what type of individual he really is. Then, this Egyptian / Lebanese beauty enlightens us on her live album due … Continue reading NEeMA; Leaving the Light On …