Category: News

  Ottawa’s singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Kelsey Hayes, and her top notch guitar-bass-drums ensemble more than impressed me on Friday night as they kicked things off on day number two at the Claridge stage. Kelsey performed a collection of well-written originals from her two EP’s, and peppered her set with some creative cover material. One of her originals, entitled “Thursday... Read More

  Bryan Adams set the City stage on fire with a memorable 2-hour performance on opening night at Bluesfest. From start to finish, the energy and enthusiasm he and the rest of the band poured out onstage was felt and reciprocated by the crowd, who were 21,000 strong. He kicked off the night with “Ultimate Love”, one of two new... Read More

Ottawa’s 8-piece jazz ensemble, The Bank Street Bonbons, brought their incredible big band sound to open Bluesfest festivities on the Claridge stage Thursday night. Situated where the River stage once was, the covered structure that now houses the Claridge stage provided welcoming shade and seating amidst the tropical heat. Two trombones, two saxes, and two trumpets ensued in a whirling... Read More

  Former Big Sugar bassist Garry Lowe passed away Saturday at the age of 65 after a lengthy battle with cancer. A native of Kingston Jamaica, Lowe moved to Toronto in the mid 70’s where he performed with many touring reggae artists as a key session player. He would later form popular local band Culture Shock. Big Sugar lead vocalist/guitarist... Read More