Bluesman Ben Todd a LB’s

Multi-instrumentalist Ben Todd has blown crowds away with his dexterity in vocals, guitar, flute and harmonica.

A true blues man, he’s developed a strong following on Edmonton’s commercial stages.

“He plays a subtle blues style with a slight jazz flair,” says Mark Ammar, co-host of the weekly Moosehead Barsnbands Open Stage at LB’s Pub.

Todd has jammed at the Commercial Hotel since 1970 and performed with band Deja Blue through the ’80s and ’90s, Ammar adds.

Influenced by the likes of Bruce Cockburn, Leo Kottke, Ry Cooder and Robben Ford, Todd will be making a first-time appearance at LB’s on Tuesday, Jan. 22. The jam starts at 9 p.m.

Filling in for co-host Randy Forsberg is Jimmy Guiboche on bass.

The City of Light Festival needs volunteers

Since the Edmonton Winter Light Society closed its doors in October 2012, La Cité Francophone has pulled together its resources to create a new festival – The City of Light and the Flying Canoe Adventure Walk, launching Feb. 1 and 2.

This family event, an illuminated odyssey through trails along Mill Creek Ravine, is centred on French Canadian and First Nations cultures, embroidered with a smattering of Canadian multiculturalism.

As festival organizers put together the finishing touches, they are searching for an additional 60 volunteers to work hospitality. Volunteers are requested to work a minimum two-and-a-half hours in outdoor settings and five hours indoors.

For more volunteer information call volunteer coordinator Shannon Brennan at 780-463-1144. For more information visit www.cityoflight.ca.

Darlene Olson at Rednex

Tonight Edmonton singer-songwriter Darlene Olson is stepping it up at Morinville’s Rednex Bar & Grill. The big-haired, big-voiced country singer will be singing some songs from her 2007 Stay Up and Fight album as well as a few covers and her upcoming single release Living Without You.

“Armed with her attention-grabbing voice and down home personality, Darlene Olson quickly captures the hearts of audiences with her strong lyrical style and warm spirit,” said Rednex’s Don Lien in an e-mail.

There is no cover. Rednex is at 10413 100 Ave.

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