Well, I hope you enjoyed the holiday season as I did, though the old belt has been hinting, cuz like others, I probably enjoyed it a little too much. Such is life, so much good food, so little time!!
Musically, before Christmas I was lucky enough to catch James McKenty & the Spades at O’Reilly’s. James, who grew up here in Perth, now resides in Peterborough, providing stellar guitar and vocals as well as most of the writing for this dynamic trio. He is ably supported by Winchester Street on drums / vocals and Chachi Robichaud on bass /vocals.
I first heard James back in October 2002 in Ottawa at the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals Conference. He was being featured in the Peterborough Folk Society suite and provided a noteworthy set but was understandably upstaged by the unique presence of, then 12 year old Jimmy Bowskill, who was rippin’ into the blues on guitar and banjo, harp and vocals. This was the only time I’ve seen James where his supportive dad, John, wasn’t in the background, smiling proudly, like a Cheshire cat.
James has come a long way. I heard him at a concert later that year, I believe, in Perth but he was being challenged at the time with laryngitis so, that cut into his ability to ‘show his stuff’ full out. Subsequently, he played at Stewart Park Festival a couple of years ago and impressed me with his sometimes quirky writing and guitar playing.
Well, the James I saw has really matured onstage. His guitar playing or the confidence to push the envelope more was evident but most memorable was his charisma onstage with lots of banter with both the audience and the band. Their pleasing harmonies and driving steady rhythm powered a very established, mature sound. Any memories of the younger, shy lad that have been portrayed to me by those who knew him back then would be amazed at the sparkling presence he now presents. By chance, a Peterborough friend gave me the Spades latest album, “Burning on Fumes” and it has received regular, appreciative play at home and in the car. Another hometown boy to keep an eye on.
From the “Timing is Everything” category, again just before Christmas I chanced in on friends who were jamming on pedal steel and stand up bass and had welcomed a cello playing neighbour in for the first time. Well, I enjoyed the sound of this unique instrument mix, backing none other than Rachel Forster leading a few Christmas carols. Made for a memorable Sunday afternoon.
By the time I’m finished at the Church of the Arena on Sundays, I usually too pooped to get there but Fiddlehead’s Sunday Jazz Brunch from noon to 3pm has become a welcome institution to Perth’s music scene. The original pianist at Tiannakeems, Clay Young always has a pleasing mix of players, presenting mainsteam jazz with a fair bit of be-bop, depending on who’s with him. I’ve got to get there soon. I hear Mike Rud, an exceptional guitarist will be there Jan. 22nd. Jazz is every other Sunday through the winter and every week, come spring.
Keep your eyes open for music now being presented at the Goodwood Oven as I heard Ball and Chain and Romi Mayes played lately. Nice room for good music.