Rick Blue and George Bowser have been entertaining Montrealers, Quebecers and Canadians for three decades. They were the pre-cursor for guys like Sugar Sammy. In fact – it was Bowser and Blue who gave a younger Sammy permission to open up for one of their shows. The rest is history. Except for Bowser and Blue who remain – cutting edge. Rick …? Please … Continue reading Rick Blue; Keepin’ It Light …
In the conclusion of my talk with Taurey Butler – the talented pianist discusses what made Oscar Peterson so good. He also praises Oliver Jones and explains the difference between the two men … Enjoy some music, some talk and … some funny moments as Polka leads into ‘dangerous’ territory. Taurey …? Visit Taurey and The House of Jazz Here! Continue reading Taurey Butler; Making His Way – Oscar Peterson Style; Part Two
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
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
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
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’
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 was schooled in Classical music. He is no Mozart, Chopin or Bach slouch … That said; the pianist loves to play another style for a reason. What style and why? Have a listen below. An interesting discovery will be made. Edwin …? Visit Edwin Right here! Continue reading Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock; Part Two
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
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
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
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 …
Rick Keene Music Scene 