Check out the Edmonton Labatt Blues Festival this weekend at the Heritage Amphitheatre in Hawrelak Park.
Saturday brings to town the unusual pairing of San Francisco violinist/songwriter Tom Rigney with the fiery Cajun sound of Flambeau, and then there’s The Twisters, Canada’s primo jump-blues band.
Henry Gray and the Cats bring a wealth of experience — about 60 years since Gray is hailed as a contributor to post Second World War Chicago Blues as well as a key pillar of Louisiana’s ‘swamp blues.’ And few can beat the pedigree of James ‘Super Chikan’ Johnson and the Fighting Cocks. Johnson, a musician, artist and guitar maker, is a nephew to legendary blues musician Big Jack Johnson.
Sunday redefines musical diversity with Bob Brozman, a master of world music, James Harman and Steve Kozak, a blend of Alabama blues and western Canadian roots blues, and Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88s, an inspired jump ‘n’ boogie outfit.
Single tickets are still available for Sunday ($45) at Ticketmaster or the gate. For more information visit www.bluesinternationalltd.com.
St. Albert’s own guitarist Gordie Matthews, drummer Kelly Stodola and bassist Fred Larose are the featured entertainers at Mark Ammar’s Open Stage Jam this coming Tuesday night at LB’s Pub.
The trio is a mix of unique, high-level talent starting with Matthews, a long-time support musician for k.d. lang and Ian Tyson. Stodola has a solid reputation as session drummer and Larose honed his skills as the house bassist for Sun Country TV Show.
The open jam starts at 9 p.m. LB’s is located at 23 Akins Dr. No cover charge.
