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Lynn Miles @ Sunset Saloon, Aug. 7!

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new lynn pic press LGLynn Miles w/special guest Scott Nolan
Thursday, Aug. 9, 2014
Live at The Sunset Saloon (House Concert, Westwood, Winnipeg)
7:30 pm
Suggested donation $25 (all money goes directly to this talented artist!)

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!

Canada is renowned for its great songwriters and musicians; that much is undeniable. But among the crowd, there always stand a few who loom large and who impress and inspire all of the others. Lynn Miles is one such artist, and she’s in a rare class of songwriters. Throughout her career, from her acclaimed 1996 debut, Slightly Haunted, to the most recent, universally praised album, Downpour, Lynn’s albums have had a rare, consistent beauty – there aren’t any duds anywhere in the catalogue, and everything she’s done has stood above so many others. She writes some of the most powerful, personal, moving songs in the world. The only people who can say that they haven’t been moved by a Lynn Miles song are those unfortunate folks who haven’t heard them.

3womentruthAnd it’s true, her name does not loom as large in the public consciousness as some of her contemporaries, but so many great artists can be counted among her many, many devoted fans. She recently completed a co-headlining tour with two outstanding songwriters, Eliza Gilkyson and Mary Gauthier, called 3 Women and the Truth.

And Lynn Miles brings that truth with her wherever she goes. Her songs tend to lean toward the sad, lonely, desperate part of the human condition. She’s lived it all and isn’t afraid to write about it. Consider her duet with Jim Bryson on her 2010 album, Fall for Beauty (easily one of the most moving songs I’ve ever heard. If this doesn’t put a lump in your throat, you’ve never loved.) (listen here: www.sonicbids.com/band/lynnmiles2/audio/#Goodbye)

But Lynn Miles shows are far from a downer. In concert, she’s hilarious, charming, and really engaging. You’ll laugh as much as you cry, and you’ll fall in love with this wonderful woman and her legendary songs.

As if seeing Lynn wasn’t amazing enough, she often hires a hotshot guitar player to back her up (Keith Glass, Ian Lefeuvre, Jim Bryson, and more) and this time is no different. She’s tapped into the deep pool of talent in Winnipeg and come up with a pretty great choice, Scott Nolan! We’ve been wanting to have Scott visit the saloon for a long time, so we might not let him leave!

Lynn doesn’t come around here very often. She performed on a multi-artist bill in 2009, as part of a Bluebird North event in 2004, and at the Winnipeg Folk Festival in 1991, 1993, 1995, and 2000. All of this is to say that you might not be getting another chance any time soon! We do hope that she has such a great time that we can convince her to make it a little more regular. Here’s hoping.

It needs to be said that this amazing opportunity is entirely thanks to our pal Devin Latimer at The Trout Forest Music Festival! Lynn is part of another great lineup at the festival, Aug. 8-10 in Ear Falls, ON. This truly is the best little festival in Canada, with a stunning drive to the site, a gorgeous site, and the most relaxed, laid back atmosphere anywhere, this one is an annual highlight for me. If you’ve never been, consider checking it out this year for more Lynn Miles, and many more! www.troutfest.com

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Sunparlour Players Rock the Sunset Saloon, May 5!

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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!

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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

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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 Twenty — The 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!

TTBTGH/SBFRR/Sunset Saloon News & Reminders!

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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 Saloon. Tannis 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 Parts, Chris 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