Bill Johnson contributes eight originals to his Still Blue, each one a fine example of a contemporary blues song, not merely a retread of a familiar 12 bar theme, and each sung in his evocative voice. The variety of approaches, from the sne...
Victoria locals Jon and Roy have released a new album entitled Let It Go, which is a subtle departure from their previous and wildly successful album Homes. I spoke with Roy Vizer (drums/percussion) about the new album, the road, and what life at home in
On the evening of the band’s record release party at The Red Room, Factory Worker Media met with Unleash the Archers guitarist Grant Truesdell in the building’s old vault to discuss challenges to songwriting, community-building, and navigating the roi
Deb Rhymer has worn numerous hats over the years, from Bette Midler impersonator to daycare operator. But the one that fits her best is blues booster.
Rhymer, a Victoria native, spends almost all her waking hours dedicated to blues, eith...
Victoria musicians stage tribute to Gord Downie. Proceeds benefit Cool Aid Society and BC Cancer Agency. Interview with Lola Parks. Show organized by James Kasper of Mighty Speck Records.
A story on west coast Canadian blues guitar man, West Coast Comerford. Comerford has played in many blues bands out of Victoria, including the Rockin' Devils, All Them Blues Band and Uncle Wiggly's Hot Shoes Blues Band. The piece was published on Digita
She’s been at it for 35 years, but Toni Blodgett’s love of jazz continues to fuel her band’s unique blend of what she calls “more traditional” music.
What it really means is her group has access to a vast repertoire of jazz tunes and has develo
These gals...crazy. Vancouver to Toronto for a single gig. Fly home. Immediately pack the tour van. Cross the border at night. Drive 15 hours to a poorly attended Monday night show in Denver. Who does that? The Pack A.D., mofo, that's who....
Frontman Finny McConnell leaks several surprises during rare interview.
CD Review for Still Blue
Mr. Johnson jumped into view as a nominee for Guitarist of the Year in 2006. This Victoria-based bluesman jammed onstage after the Awards Show and left behind a couple of impressive CDs. This new one is even...
The Railway Club, May 15th, 2009
The signature choo choo train circled the ceiling of the Railway Club as Sun Wizard took the stage on May 15th. The first of four Vancouver bands, Sun Wizard warmed up the crowd in their third performanc...