Category Archives: Saloon House Shows

Sunparlour Players Rock the Sunset Saloon, May 5!

This show is now SOLD OUT! You can request a spot on the waiting list and hope some folks drop out, but at this point, I’m kind of hoping some folks drop out so we’ll have enough room!

If you snoozed and losed, then you obviously haven’t joined the handy-dandy email list (which you can do via the contact page) and you haven’t subscribed to have new posts on this site delivered directly to you (which you can do in the menu on the left hand side of the page). We’ve got more amazing shows to come, so sign up or check in often!

They say that lightning never strikes the same place twice, I say SCREW THAT! A year and a half ago I took a chance and invited my favourite live band in the world to stop by my house and play some songs. Much to my amazement and delight, they went for it! And since they were travelling across the country again this spring, and appeared to be driving back from Alberta to Ontario with no stops in between, I had to throw caution to the wind and see if they might be willing to do it again. Well, what do you know, here we go again!

Sunparlour Players

Monday, May 5, 2014
7:30 pm
Sunset Saloon (house concert, west Winnipeg)
$20-25 suggested donation (all proceeds to the artists)

All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, or whoever might tag along!)
You can bring a beverage of your choice to enjoy or some food to share, but we’ll have plenty of both on hand, so it’s not necessary, so feel free to show up and enjoy whatever’s on hand!

*Space is limited, so RSVP early. Seating is limited, so some may stand/dance/move around.

Questions? RSVP? Fill out the contact form below!

It’s easy to misjudge Sunparlour Players when you first see their setup, because they’re playing seated and have a variety of acoustic instruments on stage. You might expect something folky and laid back, and they can do that really well, but what they do best is ROCK like very few bands can. Andrew and Rosie are absolute masters of dynamics, they can go from soft, tender, and haunting to an all out wall of sound within a song. They can go from interesting & introspective to full out dance party and back again, and it all makes perfect sense.

I’ve seen other live bands try to follow these guys, and they all have to raise their game to hold their own. There simply isn’t another live band as interesting and amazing as Sunparlour Players, so you simply have to see them to really understand.

They do, however, have four terrific albums which have been great all along (their debut, Hymns for the Happy remains one of my very favourite albums) but there has been a growth and evolution that has brought them to their latest masterpiece, the recently released album, The Living Proof. If you haven’t heard that one yet, be sure to get in on this show and pick up a copy before all of your friends list it on those year-end best-of lists; I can’t imagine how a situation where it wouldn’t end up on mine this year. I’ve had it on repeat since my first listen.

They’re right at home on big stages at festivals and theatres across the country. Recently they blew away a crowd at Winnipeg’s hallowed music hall, The West End Cultural Centre, and they’ve been wowing crowds at other theatres and large music clubs ever since. It’s a rare and amazing opportunity to see this powerful band in such an intimate environment, so even if you saw them recently, this is one you won’t want to miss!

Check out the first single and the leadoff track from the new album:

Here are the boys in action at WECC, April 17. They rocked so much, the video’s pretty distorted. It’ll sound much better in person!

Classic title track from their first album, Hymns for the Happy:

Here’s a special treat for you. Here’s a recording of Sunparlour Players live at The Sunset Saloon, Oct. 29, 2012! Download, unzip, drop into iTunes or your favourite player, and enjoy!

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Shannon Lyon @ Sunset Saloon, April 26, 2014!

Catch Shannon at The Sunset Saloon, April 26, 2014!

Catch Shannon at The Sunset Saloon, April 26, 2014!

Shannon Lyon
House Concert
Saturday, April 26, 2014
8:00 Suggested donation $15-20 (price flexible, all proceeds to a talented musician making his way across this vast country)
If you wish, bring a drink for yourself, and/or a snack to share, but we’ve always got plenty of all of those on hand!
All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, people off the street, whatever)
Questions? RSVP? Fill out the contact form below!
Forward this to a friend!

Shannon Lyon website

Download Shannon Lyon music (pay what you want, but we highly encourage you to pay!)

Twice before, I’ve been lucky enough to welcome one of my all-time favourite singer/songwriters to my house, as Shannon Lyon made stops in some joker’s back yard in 2012 and 2013! Hearing some of my all time favourite songs in my own backyard was a dream come true, and everyone who attended raved about the show afterward.

Well, we’re excited to welcome Shannon back again this year, and this time, it’ll probably be indoors, and shouldn’t compete with any vacation plans!

For those unfamiliar (you poor souls), Shannon Lyon is a Canadian producer, musician and singer-songwriter. Born in Uxbridge, Ontario, Canada, Lyon began his musical career in Kitchener, Ontario in the early 90’s forming his first band Strange Days (1990-1993) recording one album entitled ‘Life Aint Easy’ produced by Nelson McCrossan. During this time Lyon also started his low-key solo career and released his first solo studio album entitled ‘Buffalo White’ in 1994 which was recorded by friend Bill Braun.

Since 1994 Lyon has released ten studio albums and has received critical acclaim and commercial success in Europe, North America and Australia.

Lyon was the first Canadian signed to Richard Branson’s post Virgin Records label V2 in 2004(becoming label mates with The White Stripes and Paul Weller) with the release of the critically acclaimed album ‘Wandered’ which was recorded in a 17th century farmhouse in the south of Holland with Dutch producer Bj Baartmans. Wandered was released in Australia on Collision records and in Europe on Inbetweens Records.

In 2003 Lyon signed with Canadian Roots label Busted Flat Records (Matt Anderson, Jay Semko, Paul MacLeod), a roots music label founded in 2002 by Mark Logan and based in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada. Busted Flat has released 5 of Lyon’s albums to date. (Bound, Safe Inside, Someday Mourning, El Sol, and Broken Things).

Lyon moved to Holland in 2000 and spent the better part of a decade living and touring in Spain, Germany, France and The Netherlands. Lyon is currently located in Canada.

Lyon has toured and shared the stage in Europe, Australia, USA and Canada with such artists as Lucinda Williams, Richard Buckner, Jay Farrar, Ray LaMontagne, Blue Rodeo and Bruce Cockburn.

When I hear Shannon, I hear the rhythms of the Midnight Cowboy, the harmonies of an earth-bound angel, the acoustic guitar that knows the pain of a heart, the steel guitar that stirs the lonely and restless lovers. But most of all I hear the voice that echoes Earle, Farrar and Buckner, a voice that haunts you like a heavy fog on a barren field on a cool October morning.
Bob Egan (Blue Rodeo, Wilco)

Some highlights from last year’s show:

Here’s a live clip, shot outdoors with lots of mosquitoes

Here’s a live performance of the title track to his most recent release, “Broken Things.”

Here’s a rockin’ live track featuring his great Berlin band:

The first time Shannon visited us, I blew it and interrupted before Shannon could play this as an encore. Believe me, I won’t do that again!

Here’s a beauty we did get to hear:

Chris Trapper @ Sunset Saloon, April 1, 2014

Chris Trapper - 14Chris Trapper
www.christrapper.com
Live at Sunset Saloon (house concert, West Winnipeg)
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
7:30
Suggested donation $15-20
All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, people off the street, whatever)
As usual, you can bring a beverage of your choice or food to share, but we’ll have plenty of both on hand, so feel free to enjoy whatever’s on hand!

Questions? RSVP? Fill out the contact form below!

After a very popular, memorable, and successful show last year, we’re super pleased to welcome back Chris Trapper. His show was funny, engaging, moving, and always entertaining. Many of the songs performed last year made it onto Chris’ new CD, Technicolor, so  I hope you’ll come out and pick up a copy and hear what new material he’s already performing.

I became rather obsessed with this great song after last year’s show. It’s a beauty, and it now has a touching video:

Like many Winnipeggers, my first knowing exposure to Chris Trapper came when he opened for Folk Festival favourite Martin Sexton at the Walker Theatre in 2009. He won us over with his wit, charm, and wonderful songs. But you’re likely familiar with some of his other work, without even knowing it. He co-wrote 7 songs with Great Big Sea, including their big hit “Sea of No Cares.” He’s had songs on some big movie soundtracks, including the Grammy Award nominated soundtrack to “August Rush,” as well as multiple TV show placements. He is also the leader of successful rock band The Push Stars.

I got to see and hear a lot more of him at The Edmonton Folk Festival in 2010, where he became fast friends with Colin Hay (Men at Work,) and won over a lot of new fans at that very prestigious festival.

He’s got a hectic touring schedule, a lot of great songs, and many amusing stories from along the way. I know you’ll enjoy yourself if you come see Chris in our friendly, intimate environment.

Official Bio:

CHRIS TRAPPER began his career as the front man for late-90’s alternative rock band THE PUSH STARS (Capitol Records).  With four CD releases and several high profile national tours — including a run with Matchbox TwentyThe Push Stars served to establish Chris as an authentic talent.

As a modern day singer /songwriter, Chris is most known for his song This Time, the #1 selling song on the Grammy nominated soundtrack for AUGUST RUSH (Robin Williams, Jonathan Rhys Meyers /Warner Bros Pictures).

The new CD (released October 18, 2013), Technicolor, is a collection of 17 songs written and performed by Chris Trapper.  This new work was Produced, Recorded, Mixed and Mastered by Brad Young at BKY Music, Boston, USA.  Focus tracks include the title track ‘Technicolor‘ and ‘Northwest Sun‘ and ‘The Accident‘.

Chris Trapper’s music can best be described as lyrically driven roots-pop with a knack for telling everyday stories filled with extra-ordinary characters.

Every record tells a story. For me, much more than gimmicks, my albums are like diary entries, or truthful accounts of where I’m at in life. I suppose that might be the same for most songwriters, but in the spectrum of the music business, it’s still an animal that’s nearly extinct.”   Chris Trapper  

In the Spring of 2013 Chris performed a duet with his songwriting idol JOHN PRINE at the Portsmouth Songwriter Festival.

In 2012 and 2013 Chris toured North America and the UK with multi platinum songwriter COLIN HAY.

His humble sense of humility is what makes Trapper’s songs so strong… He makes you feel like you are the person he’s singing about.  The Few & the Far Between is another strong addition to the Chris Trapper/Push Stars catalog.Popdose

The New York Times calls his work “classic pop perfection.”

A prolific songwriter, Chris can boast high profile film placements including There’s Something About Mary (Ben Stiller, Cameron Diaz), The Devil Wears Prada (Meryl Streep), Say It Isn’t So (Heather Graham) and Gun Shy (Sandra Bullock, Liam Neeson) as well as significant television placements including All My Children, Women’s Murder Club, Malcolm In The Middle, a coveted placement in George Clooney’s final episode of ER, the theme song for WB Networks dramedy Pepper Dennis and a cameo on-screen appearance with the show’s star, Rebecca Romjin.

A respected songwriter of the highest caliber, Chris has written 7 songs with/for Canadian band GREAT BIG SEA, including their #1 single “Sea Of No Cares” from the certified-platinum Sea Of No Cares CD.  Great Big Sea covered Trapper’s song “Everything Shines” and their version served as the debut single off their certified-gold Road Rage CD album. Chris’ songwriting collaborations with Great Big Sea earned him two prestigious SOCAN awards. Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twenty and Antigone Rising have performed other notable versions of Trapper’s songs.

Trapper’s live show is a favorite among fans of alt–acoustic music. His on–stage persona is warm and inclusive, his organic understanding of classic pop melody, infectious. Audience members seem to particularly appreciate the lighthearted moments with the ukulele.

It’s an incredibly rare musician, particularly in the world of popular music, who is able to forge a career based on quiet dignity and steadfast integrity.” – The Buffalo News

http://www.christrapper.com

If music doesn’t work out, Chris is considering a run for office:


Let’s make sure it doesn’t come to that!

Let the world know what you think by leaving a comment below!

Matt Epp @ Sunset Saloon, Jan. 19, 2014

music - 10Matt Epp

Sunday, January 19, 2014
2:00 pm matinée!
$15-20 suggested donation (all proceeds to the artists)
All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, or whoever might tag along!)
As usual, you can bring a beverage of your choice to enjoy or some food to share, but we’ll have plenty of both on hand, so it’s not necessary, so feel free to show up and enjoy whatever’s on hand!

Questions? RSVP? Fill out the contact form below!

music - 01Besides being a super talented musician, a true man of the world, and an undisputed rising star, Matt Epp is one of the most genuine, sweet people you’ll ever meet. If you’ve run across Matt, chances are he gave you his dazzling smile and a warm embrace.

After making a name for himself producing skateboarding videos, Matt Epp came to Winnipeg, started putting out music, and never looked back. He first came to our attention with his solo debut after parting with the group Hired Help, who put out an album under the name of Fired Help. His debut revealed a songwriter who was spiritual, personal, and passionate. His revealing, intimate songs found an audience quickly, and he rode his skateboard up to UMFM for the first of many visits. (He still proudly holds the title of “Only Singer/Songwriter to Show up on a Skateboard!”) His passion and determination were overwhelming and infectious. It was hard not to want to support someone with such a desire to travel around singing his songs.

The releases came steadily after that, and each one showed immense growth. His fourth album in as many years, “Safe or Free” featured duets with established stars Jesse DeNatale and Eliza Gilkyson (Emmylou Harris was a possibility, but timing didn’t work out!)

music - 02Then he hooked up with a powerful band, The Amorian Assembly, and his career grew by leaps and bounds. He spent a lot of time in Spain, France, and all over Europe and North America, and gained a following wherever he took his charming and captivating show.

His latest album, Learning to Lose Control, was produced by Jamie Candiloro, a name that might not mean much to you until you find out that he previously worked with folks like R.E.M and Ryan Adams – not too shabby! The album also includes a co-write and duet with Serena Ryder, who provides the perfect partner for Matt’s voice. That song, “When You Know,” is one of the most infectious and amazing songs of last year. It spent a long time on the CBC 2 Top 20 Countdown, and was repeatedly acknowledged as the song with “Most Online Votes” from friends and fans. The guy’s got a lot of them.

Matt made a special guest appearance at The Sunset Saloon in 2013 when he dropped in to sing with Christina Martin & Dale Murray, so it’s a great pleasure to welcome Matt for his own show this year!

This is a special Sunday afternoon matinée, going head-to-head with Tell the Band to Go Home on UMFM (I’m going to bug Jared to see if it’s at all possible to do the show live on location…). This is something I wouldn’t normally do, but the last time Matt was scheduled to come into the station to perform on the show, I stood him up because I was negotiating to buy the Saloon! He was kind and gracious, and it’s thanks to him that The Sunset Saloon even exists (kind of.)

Folks, spend a Sunday afternoon with a guy who you’ll surely want to form a lasting friendship with. Be here for this great event!

Matt Epp – Use Your Head from HEAVYWEATHER on Vimeo.

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Brock Zeman @ Sunset Saloon, Nov. 11, 2013!

Brock Zeman

Who is this man and what's he yelling about? Come on out on Nov. 11 and find out!

Who is this man and what’s he yelling about? Come on out on Nov. 11 and find out!

Monday, November 11, 2013
7:30 pm
$20 suggested donation (all proceeds to the artists)
All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, or whoever might tag along!)
As usual, you can bring a beverage of your choice to enjoy or some food to share, but we’ll have plenty of both on hand, so it’s not necessary, so feel free to show up and enjoy whatever’s on hand!

Questions? RSVP? Fill out the contact form below!

1167278_10151766303580306_1417274989_oThis year, we’re giving you something very special to remember, as we’re bringing back Brock Zeman and his amazing friends & accompanists, Blair Hogan & Dylan Roberts!

Brock was our first guest at The Sunset Saloon, and he set the bar high. Since then, he’s been back almost every year, making this show number 4! My neighbour Shelly is the band’s official Winnipeg “road mom,” and she always goes all out, inviting folks and looking after the boys in the band. She’s dubbed this “Bedson St. Brockfest,” and that sounds about right to me!

1146202_10151766303770306_1130114892_oIf you’re not familiar with Brock, well, you need to be here. He’s got all of the skill and lyrical ability as the great Texas songwriters, but with a real rockin’ edge. He’s also bringing along a brand new CD, “Rotten Tooth,” which he calls his “most experimental production so far.” Since setting up shop at his home studio, The Big Muddy, his albums have become more powerful and intriguing. His last disc, “Me Then You,” is a modern day classic, and I can’t wait to hear what he’s done to try and top that! Come on down to The Sunset Saloon to be among the first to own this new one!

Brock’s shows have been growing in popularity over the past 5 years, so I’m cautiously optimistic that this one could SELL OUT. Don’t delay, make your plans today to be here on Nov. 11 when Brock Zeman returns to The Sunset Saloon!

Listen to an advance track from “Rotten Tooth!”

If we’re lucky, maybe we’ll see an opening set by “Whisperin’ Whitey.” Ok, maybe that wouldn’t be so lucky. This video definitely qualifies for a “Viewer Discretion Advised” warning. Not for the kiddies. Posted for comedic relief, not as an indication of what’s to come:

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TTBTGH/SBFRR/Sunset Saloon News & Reminders!

Greetings friends!

I just came back from a fabulous vacation in Southern Ontario (more on that later), but I’m excited to be back, because there are some exciting things on the horizon:

This Thursday on Steel Belted Radio, we’ll be joined live in-studio by a hot new band called Pistol George Warren. They’re a crazy mashup of R & B, Motown, and old skool Rock n’ Roll (there’s definitely a real Stones swagger). It’s been called a party on the stage, and they’ll bring the party to the perfect home for such things, Times Change(d) that night, but they’ll bring all 8 band members (!) by UMFM for a free preview first! You won’t want to miss that.
Check ’em out: http://pistolgeorgewarren.bandcamp.com
Here’s fun video for one of their latest: http://youtu.be/w7_ahJubeC8

While I was in Ontario, I got to spend a few days at the home of our next performers at The Sunset SaloonTannis Slimmon andLewis Melville are not only extra-talented musically, they are also two of the most down to earth, kind, generous, wonderful people on the planet. They exude joy and peace and love and all kinds of wonderful things. If you’re a fan of great music or great people, they’ve got you covered. I’d be really pleased to introduce you to these two on August 14, when they play The Sunset Saloon.

And don’t worry; if you were following the news, you know that some really terrible stuff went down in our neighbourhood last week. Unspeakable tragedy and sadness. I’m glad to say that the saga is over, the police tape is gone, and things are starting to brighten up around here. It does make me want to tell you all how much I genuinely appreciate your support of the radio shows and the house concerts, and for just being out there and willing to pay attention to these ramblings.

That horror also has me more convinced that we all need to pay attention to each other, and help out where we can. If someone around you seems extra sad or edgy or not quite right, we need to support and encourage those around us to find out what might be wrong, and get the help we need. I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life, and while it’s not ever easy for me to talk about it or reach out for help, I have benefitted greatly from other people asking me if I’m ok, or encouraging me to see a doctor. It’s nothing to be afraid of, nothing to be ashamed of, and if treated properly, nothing to worry about. It takes time and care, but even those most troubled can live good lives with the right support and treatment. So many of my musical friends and idols have struggled with these issues, and some great music and art has come out of it. Unfortunately though, some of those people have been lost to their troubles, like the late, great John Bottomley (here were my thoughts at the time: http://tellthebandtogohome.com/2011/04/12/lets-bring-depression-out-of-the-shadows/) I know there’s never an easy answer, but if we watch out for each other and show the right support and encouragement, lives can be saved.

Holy! I thought this was a music newsletter, promoting happy things! Check out the Upcoming Events page for lots of shows that will make you happy: http://tellthebandtogohome.com/upcoming-events/. I’m really looking forward to the Gimli Alternative Folk Festivalthis weekend, and The Trout Forest Music Festival the weekend after that! We’ll have more news soon on upcoming Sunset Saloon shows, so tune in to the radio shows or watch your email inbox for more passionate ramblings! (although, if you’re interested in hosting a house concert with Animal PartsChris Trapper, or Liam Titcomb, let me know! I can set you up!)

Enjoy the rest of your summer (as cold as it might currently be…), be good to each other, and get out and enjoy yourself!

Jeff

Tannis Slimmon & Lewis Melville

 

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Shots taken at The Winnipeg Folk Festival, 2009. Catch Tannis & Lewis again in Winnipeg on August 14 at The Sunset Saloon!

Tannis Slimmon @ Sunset Saloon, Aug. 14!

Tannis Slimmon w/Lewis Melville
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Live at Sunset Saloon (house concert, Westwood, Winnipeg)
8:00
Suggested donation $15-20
All are welcome (bring the kids, friends, family, people off the street, whatever) As usual, you can bring a beverage of your choice or food to share if you wish, but we’ll have plenty of both on hand, so feel free to save yourself the trouble and just enjoy whatever’s on hand!
RSVP & questions, see the comment box below!

When I first got the album “Oak Lake,” by Tannis Slimmon over a decade ago, I didn’t immediately recognize the name either. A quick glance at her bio showed me that I did, indeed, know her work. She has contributed to over 75 albums over the course of her distinguished career, including many of my all-time favourites, including Willie P Bennett‘s “Heartstrings” album, and Rheostatics “Whale Music,” (which I’ll go to my grave defending as one of the greatest Canadian albums of all time.) She was part of a renowned trio called The Bird Sisters for a long time, as well as Benji and other groups, but since then, has quietly carved out a remarkable career on her own ever since. She’s won awards, played the big festivals (including The Winnipeg Folk Festival,) travelled the world (including a memorable and inspiring trip to Africa in 2004, where she was part of a documentary called “Road To Baleya,” by Bay Waymen,) and connected with and inspired musicians all over.

And as if her experience and talents weren’t enough, she’s usually accompanied by her partner Lewis Melville. If that name doesn’t ring a bell, you must not spend as much time as I do reading Canadian album liner notes. Lewis is the heart and soul of a very fertile music community in Guelph, Ontario. He was a big part of DROG records in the 90s, a label which put out a LOT of great albums. He was also the mastermind behind some amazing compilations like “Truck Songs,” “Food Songs,” “Songs for Peace,” and my my personal favourite, “Sixty Second Songs,” which compiled 88 songs by 88 different artists/groups all doing songs that are less than a minute on 2 CDs. It’s as weird and wonderful as you might expect. Click here to read about his project The Williams, which put to music the writings of Shakespeare. There is also a great discography and bio at the site. He is a brilliant musician, an insightful songwriter, and one of the most creative and intelligent people I’ve ever met. I had the great fortune of staying at his house years ago, and it truly did feel like I was spending time at Yoda’s house.

Together, these two make for a powerful musical force. They’re also a couple of the most kind, generous, decent spirits I’ve ever run across. You won’t leave this show without a smile on your face, a song in your heart, and a lift to your spirit – guaranteed! I’ve been asking Tannis to do a house concert for years, and I’m really excited that the stars have finally aligned. Please join me in welcoming these two amazing musicians and people into our home and our community of music lovers.

Listen to Tannis here (click on “Albums” then there’s a player for each.)

Clearly, there isn’t nearly enough quality video online of these two. Let’s change that!

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Shannon Lyon Sunset Saloon Primer

We’re plenty excited about the return of the great Shannon Lyon to the Sunset Saloon back yard on July 6. If you saw him last year or know his amazing work, you know what a treat this is, so you’ll love the magic below. If you haven’t seen or heard Shannon, you should really watch the videos below and you should definitely make plans to join us on July 6!

Here’s a recent live clip, shot outdoors with lots of mosquitoes (so hopefully he will be prepared for a couple of outdoor shows!)

Here’s a recent live performance of the title track to last year’s fantastic album, “Broken Things.”

Here’s a rockin’ live track featuring his great Berlin band:

Last year, I blew it and interrupted before Shannon could play this as an encore. Believe me, I won’t do that again!

Here’s a beauty we did hear last year:

And, of course, Shannon’s music is available online, name your own price!

Make your plans to join us! You will NOT regret it!

Odds @ Sunset Saloon

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Odds @ Sunset Saloon, a set on Flickr.

We’ve had a lot of great acts perform at The Sunset Saloon, but this ranks right up there among the most exciting ones. It was certainly our largest crowd, so thanks to so many people for coming out and supporting great music and great people!