BobCat House Concerts

Amy Campbell helps us turn five, February 25!

2012-01-26T16:14:00.000-08:00

We're celebrating five years!

In February 2007, Suzie Vinnick and Tony D rocked the house for our first house concert. And now, we're going to have a bit of a party for five years of great music.

Our guest? None other than the performer who helped us celebrate our first birthday and released her last CD with us, the wonderful Amy Campbell. Amy is a true gem among Canada's folk community. Her unique guitar style and her warm, inviting voice are endearing. And her songs of heartbreak and love are leavened with the wry sense of humour she brings to the stage (perhaps a byproduct of her Newfoundland heritage).

Amy is finalizing her followup to the double CD/book project "Oh Heart / Oh Highway", and I have no doubt that "Letters Home" will be as enjoyable as her last project.

If you need any more convincing, why not take a look at this video of a song I hope will be on the new record:

Opening for Amy will be John Bowman. We are proud to say that John rediscovered a love of music at our house that resulted in his releasing "Beach on the Ocean", his first CD, in 2011. John will be playing a Spirit of Rasputin's show later this spring.

Join us, won't you? There will be some cake. There will be much music. There will be laughter, and there will be celebration.

WHAT: BobCat turns FIVE!
WHERE: BobCat Birthday House, 214 Northwestern Ave
WHEN: February 25, 2012. Any time after 7; music starts at 8
WHO: Amy Campbell (s/g John Bowman)

Suggested donation is $20. All proceeds to the artist. Please pay in advance using PayPal, Interac e-transfer, by mail, or in person.

How to donate to the OCFF Taylor Mitchell Bursary

2011-11-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

Here's the donation link for the OCFF Taylor Mitchell Bursary. Any donation is kindly accepted.

Something special for our fifth birthday

2011-11-03T09:49:00.000-07:00

In February of 2007, we celebrated music, we celebrated me being cancer free, and we celebrated Cathy's birthday, by inviting Suzie Vinnick and Tony D to come and play at our house.

I couldn't have guessed where all of that would lead us over the ensuing five years. And I couldn't have guessed the joy that BobCat House Concerts would bring to us.

In February of 2012, we celebrate five years of giving musicians a respectful, comfortable, joyful place to play, and giving friends, colleagues, acquaintances and neighbours the experience of seeing and hearing tremendous talent up close. We -- you, mostly, with us creating the place -- have raised money for Babes For Breasts. We've donated more than 1000 pounds of food to the Food Bank. And we've all had a great time.

Traditionally, February's the month when Cat gets to pick the artist. And her taste has been impeccable. Suzie and Tony. Penny Lang. Peter Elkas. The Good Lovelies (remember Cat's version of "My Inflatable Guy" with the Lovelies backing her up?). Missy Burgess and Keith Glass.

And so for five years, she chose someone who we both love dearly, as a human being and as a performer. Amy Campbell is a Newfoundlander by birth (which already is a good sign), who has been performing for more than a decade and recording since 2003.

In 2008, we were proud to host her at BobCat to release her CD "O Heart, O Highway", which went on to critical acclaim and well-deserved popularity. And she's coming back to BobCat on February 11 to premiere her new CD "Letters Home."

Opening for Amy will be John Bowman. We are proud to be mentioned on the liner notes for John's first CD. When he moved to Ottawa and was brought to BobCat by his brother Rob, he rediscovered his own passion for making music (and became a big Amy fan too), which has led him to his own first CD, "Beach on the Ocean." John will be performing with Amanda Rheaume at Spirit of Rasputin's later in the spring, and we look forward to a preview here.

Taylor Mitchell

And one final thing. We're talking about this show so early because we want it to be something special. In 2009, a young singer-songwriter named Taylor Mitchell was killed in an animal attack in Cape Breton. She was on her first tour. Taylor had benefited from the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals Youth Mentoring Program. And so after her death, her family created the OCFF Taylor Mitchell Bursary, which allows a young performer who might not be able to afford the costs of attending.

To celebrate the power of music and of community, we're pledging to match your donations to the Taylor Mitchell Bursary up to $500, meaning we could raise $1000 to help young musicians chase their dreams. Use the ChipIn widget at the top of the right-hand column (right above our logo), why don't you?

So come. There will be wonderful music to be sure. There will be surprises, and laughter, and possibly a tear or two. It will be everything you expect of a BobCat show, and maybe a bit more.

WHO: Amy Campbell

WHEN: February 11, 2012; 7:00 mingling, 8:00 music

WHERE: BobCat Birthday Club, 214 Northwestern Avenue

WHAT: $20 suggested donation, all proceeds to artist. A food item to share, and booze if you're partial; a non-perishable food good for the Ottawa Food Bank.

Here's some memories of BobCats past:

Final 2011 show: Terry Gillespie, with Lyndell Montgomery November 19

2011-10-24T19:16:00.000-07:00

Terry Gillespie is a bluesman respected the world over. From his days with the legendary “Heaven's Radio” to opening and playing with people like Howlin' Wolf and John Lee Hooker, to his solo career, Terry has impressed and influenced generations of musicians and listeners.

His sound ranges from blues to soul to touches of reggae, but whether it's soul food or jerk spiced, it's all tasty.

If you fondly remember our shows with Suzie Vinnick, Tony D, David Gogo Rick Fines, Andy J. Forest, or Chris Whitely and Diana Braithwaite, DO NOT miss this show.

Terry will be bringing along musician Lyndell Montgomery, who is a veteran of both years of touring with Ember Swift and a memorable outing in the Van Kleek Hill Demolition Derby.
* WHO: Terry Gillespie with Lyndell Montgomery
* WHEN: November 19, 7:00 mingle, 8:00 music
* WHERE: BobCat Blues Barn
* WHAT: Suggested donation of $20; BYOB; bring some food to share if you prefer, and a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank if you can. Please pay in advance so that the musicians are paid fairly for their work.

As always, you can contact us to pay by cheque or cash, or just use PayPal or Interac Money Transfer with the email address bob.ledrew@gmail.com.

Here's what you'll be hearing:

And a teaser: we have a real treat coming in February to celebrate our fifth anniversary of BobCat. You'll hear more soon.

David is still playing!

2011-10-03T10:56:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have heard that David hurt himself last week. While he's not healed up yet, he is playing, and expects to be performing on the 8th. Just don't expect to high-five him.

Welcome new visitors!

2011-09-25T06:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome to those of you who found us through the Ottawa Citizen's Style magazine. Hope you like the site, and hope to see you at a show sometime soon!

Ann Vriend and David Ross MacDonald, October 8

2011-09-19T06:17:00.000-07:00

It's becoming a bit of a tradition. Thanksgiving weekend comes, and we have the good luck of presenting our friend, singer-songwriter David Ross MacDonald. (I won't make any turkey puns)

You may have seen David here, in which case you already know what a stunning songwriter, guitarist and performer he is. He's able to bring you into the musical equivalent of a sacred circle with his songs and his quiet but engaging stage presence.

Here's what David does:

David Ross Macdonald: Pepper Tree from shoottheplayer.com on Vimeo.

Well, this time David is being joined by a musical friend from Alberta, Ann Vriend. Where David is a guitarist, Ann is a master of the piano; where David is understated, Ann is theatrical; where David's vocal style owes debts to Nick Drake, Ann's will remind you of Dolly Parton or Dusty Springfield.

Here's a taste of Ann's music, from a recent Australian tour:

One thing these two very different performers share is a confident originality. I guarantee you will find joy in the music they make.

Who: David Ross MacDonald and Ann Vriend

Where: the BobCat turkey coop

When: October 8, 2011, 7:00 mingling 8:00 music

What: bring a snack or dessert to share, and a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank if you choose.

Suggested donation $25; as always, 100% of proceeds to the artists.

Let us know when you're coming.

Folk Festival passes winner!

2011-08-25T03:55:00.000-07:00

Jennifer who wants to see Steve Earle and Levon Helm, it's your lucky day. The gods at Random chose you as the winner of two Folk Club passes for the Ottawa Folk Festival.

Drop me an e-mail or call me at 613.869.2148 and we'll work out how to get your tickets to you.

Ottawa Folk Festival giveaway!

2011-08-24T12:01:00.001-07:00

Hi music lovers:

UPPITYDATE -- I'm making it TWO passes.

I have TWO full-weekend passes to the Ottawa Folk Festival that I want to give you. Here's the info about the pass:

"FOLK CLUB: This 4-day passport offers full access to the Folk Club area at the CUPE Stage. This package includes four transferrable single-day-tickets, one for each day of the event, that with daily wristband grant access to the general admission area plus a separate section that features private bar service, washroom facilities, and a limited number of patio tables and chairs (first come, first served!)."

Sweet deal, huh? It's worth $225 each. All you have to do to win the pair is leave me a comment with the name of the artist you most want to see at the Folk Festival this year.

Good luck, and happy festing.

I'll pick someone Thursday morning from comments received by 6 am Thursday.

Fall BobCat begins with Jon Brooks!

2011-08-23T04:59:00.000-07:00

Hello BobCatters:

Hope you’ve enjoyed a summer full of music -- but of course, it’s not over! The Ottawa Folk Festival (disclosure: I’m proud to serve on the board) takes place this weekend. Pray for good weather, please! We’ll take care of the music.

But the music will go on after the festival season, and we’re proud to announce our first two concerts of the 2011 fall season.

Jon Brooks performed at last year’s Ottawa Folk Festival. If you missed him there, you missed something. To my mind, there’s nobody in Canada doing what Jon Brooks does -- writing and performing songs that take on deep and important questions in strong and simple language. If you’re a fan of the social issue and protest songs of the early 1960s folk movement, Jon Brooks is your guy -- a flag-carrier and a modern interpreter of that tradition.

If, on the other hand, you’re getting a rash thinking of someone who can’t sing and barely play croaking tunes about injustice, take a step back. Jon Brooks sings with a powerful and tough voice, and plays with an inventive style that will keep you glued to the guitar.

Who: Jon Brooks
When: September 17, 2011, mingling after 7, show at 8.
Where: Chez BobCat, 214 Northwestern
What: Suggested donation $20. Bring food to share if you like; bring your own potent potables or have a soft drink on us; if you’re so inclined bring a non-perishable food item for the Ottawa Food Bank.

After Jon Brooks, a “return home” for a Friend of BobCat with a musical friend.

David Ross MacDonald IS a friend of BobCat, as well as of Bob and Cat. He’s back for an unprecedented THIRD appearance here following the release of his latest record “Thorns to Sleep.” This time, David is bringing along someone new to us.

Where David’s songs are thoughtful, introspective, and carried along by his amazing guitar playing, Ann Vriend’s are theatrical, soulful, and a unique blend of soul, gospel, and country. It’s like she’s the house band at the Cowboy Cabaret Cathedral. And she is a masterful piano player.

Who: David Ross MacDonald and Ann Vriend
When: October 8, 2011, mingling after 7, show at 8.

Where: Chez BobCat, 214 Northwestern
What: Suggested donation $25. Bring food to share if you like; bring your own potent potables or have a soft drink on us; if you’re so inclined bring a non-perishable food item for the Ottawa Food Bank.

We like to get payment in advance for our concerts. Why? Because we often fill up, and by paying in advance, you ensure that your seat will be full and we won’t turn away others. And if you weren’t aware, ALL BobCat proceeds go to the artist. You experience amazing music; they get important support. Win-win! You can use PayPal or Interac Money Transfers, or contact us to drop off payment.

Next show! May 28 Meredith Luce CD Release party

2011-05-06T19:22:00.000-07:00

May 28, 2011
7:00 mingle, 8:00 show

Meredith Luce has been a force on Ottawa's musical scene for longer than is reasonable, given her youth.
At 22, she's jumping back into the musical world with both feet after finishing a graphic design program. And that's where her new EP "Live at the Branch" comes in. This disk is a taste of things to come for Meredith and her band the Mandates. "This live EP is an introduction of what is to come on the studio album. It has solo versions of several new songs, which are now epic rock tunes that I have fleshed out with my bandmates."

The Branch Restaurant in Kemptville, Ontario has been a regular performance space for Meredith since 2007. "I first played at the Branch for the gig, but after that first time, I kept going back for the food! I always saw the gig as a bonus to a fabulous evening of gastronomic delight."

Bruce Enloe, chef and co-owner of the Branch considers himself among Meredith's Kemptville fans. "Her music is one of our favourite sounds here at the Branch where we have had the honour of hearing it so many times. She came to us for the first time over 4 years ago as a teenager with a precocious talent, I'll never forget her first show…. We were having a quiet night, but she was on fire—there were only about 5 people in the room, but after experiencing the magnetic presence of this talented artist, everyone who had been to the first [show] came back and brought friends—a trend that has continued unabated ever since to the point that we now have to turn people away whenever we are lucky enough to have her back."

Meredith's show at the Branch was the first of the restaurant's new Listening Room series, where they are trying to encourage the same respectful environment for artists that can be found at venues like the famed Black Sheep Inn of Wakefield, QC.

Although school has kept her busy exercising her design skills, Meredith didn't slow down the creative part of her music-making while in school. "I have been skimming through my laptop relearning and developing demos of songs—which I consider to be new—and they are dated back to 2009! That makes me appreciate how much I have grown. When I was 18, I was so hungry to record and perform every single idea I had. Now, I appreciate holding on to things and developing them. I am still eager to put out more recordings, but my approach has matured."

Meredith will bring her musical friend Tim Watson along for some support on percussion, and not only will you be able to pick up her new CD, but also pick up some of the woodblock-style prints Meredith created as part of the CD packaging.

We first saw Meredith when she was a high-school student with equal portions talent and drive. It's been a privilege to see her use that drive to develop her natural talent for songwriting and performing. Now you have a chance to catch her on the cusp of a new stage of her career.

WHO: Meredith Luce and Tim Watson
WHEN: May 28, 2011
WHERE BobCat branch office, 214 Northwestern Avenue

Particulars:

$20 suggested donation, in advance please! You can get your donation to us in person or by using paypal or Interac e-transfer to bob.ledrew@gmail.com

Feel free to bring a snack to share and potent potables if that's your bag. Soft drinks always available, and donations of non-perishable food goods for the Food Bank gratefully accepted.

Two friendly cats in residence -- allergic folk be warned.

See you in time to celebrate spring!

Janine Stoll & Emma-Lee run hot & cool March 12

2011-02-27T07:58:00.000-08:00

Janine Stoll and Emma-Lee are friends, share the ability to do many things well (Janine does great web design; Emma takes amazing photographs), but first and foremost are musicians, and their March 12 show here promises to be memorable.

We first heard Janine as part of the Babes for Breasts show we did that featured her, Rhonda Stakich, and Ottawa fave humans Ana Miura and Amanda Rheaume, and we were enchanted. Janine Stoll's solo work is poignant and passionate, movingly melancholy. She delivers songs that are precise in their imagery and their structure with an alto voice that iscontrolled but strong, sensual but self-possessed.

Where Janine is reason-over-passion, Emma-Lee is wide open. WhereJanine's songs have something of the arms-crossed-in-observation-and-self-protection to them, Emma-Lee's are expansive and soaring and delivered with a voice that feels as big as the sky. We caught Emma-Lee at a Stewart Park after-hours gig a couple of years ago, and fell in love with her voice -- and her choice in hats.

If you are a fan of musicians who craft songs with unexpected chords and words and deliver them with voices that are confident, expressive, and moving, you really need to get to this show.

Emma-Lee and Janine Stoll
12 March 2010, mingling at 7:00, music at 8:00
BYOB; options include bringing a donation for the Ottawa Food Bank and a snackable treat to share with other concertgoers
Suggested donation $20, in advance please. You can use PayPal or Interac e-transfers with Bob's e-mail.

Missy Burgess with Keith Glass, February 12

2011-01-27T08:04:00.000-08:00

There is absolutely no doubt that Missy Burgess is a good soul. Conveniently, she also happens to be a very talented singer and songwriter, which means that she will be a wonderful guest here at BobCat on February 12.

A lifetime of music, from her dad's beloved jazz to her brother's choral singing, has found its way into her head and heart and left her that rarest of creatures -- someone who raised children, had a successful non-musical career, and now, in retirement, is tackling a musical life with passion, good humour, and the help of some equally talented friends.

Missy released her second CD "Lemon Pie" in 2008, and is currently working on her third.

At BobCat, she'll be joined by her friend Keith Glass, a founding member of Prairie Oyster and a superb guitarist and singer in his own right.

WHO: Missy Burgess with Keith Glass

WHEN: February 12, 2010. Mingle from 7:00-8:00 pm; show at 8:00

WHERE: BobCat Missytery Mansion, 214 Northwestern Avenue

WHAT: if you can, bring along a dessert or snack to share, as well as a non-perishable food donation for the Ottawa Food Bank. If you are a lover of the alcohol, please bring your own.

Suggested donation: $20.00.

Please email me to reserve your place, and prepay, either by cheque or cash at the house or by Interac Transfer or Paypal to bob.ledrew@gmail.com.

January with Jory Nash & Happy Holidays

2010-12-13T17:24:00.000-08:00

Well, we had a lot of fun with Coco Love Alcorn on December 4, and remembered why house concerts were so much fun.

So before everyone gets TOTALLY consumed by holiday frenzy, we thought we'd get out notice of our next show and some sneak previews of the rest of the spring.

Our first show of 2011 will feature the winner of the 2009 Penguin Eggs "Album of the Year" honours: Jory Nash. Roots Music Canada says of Jory: "the thing that can drive me ‘round the bend [about the singer-songwriter genre] – is that it can all start sounding the same after awhile. Thank goodness Jory Nash doesn’t fit this stereotype. On his sixth CD New Blue Day (2009) he has managed, once again, to surprise and delight."

The album catches your ear from the first note, with excellent production that matches the songs, voices and instruments. With guest appearances by notables like Rick Fines and Dala, Nash's songs are diverse in sound and style, but share some important traits -- being literate, sensitive, and sympathetic.

Listen to this sample from "God don't love me anymore" to get a sense of who Jory is. When I heard him play a few months ago, I was taken instantly. And you'll be taken too.

WHO: Jory Nash in concert
WHEN: January 15, 2011 -- 7:00 for mingling with music at 8:00
WHERE: Home of the BobCat Nash Rambler, 214 Northwestern Avenue (Suggested donation $20 -- all proceeds to artist)
WHAT (to bring):

YOB (your own booze)
something nibbly to share with others
non-perishable food item for the Food Bank

Remember, we appreciate pre-payment. You can mail us a cheque; you can arrange to drop off cash; or you can use Paypal or Interac Money Transfer.

As to the rest of the spring:

February brings us local favorite Missy Burgess;
March sees Janine Stoll return (you may have caught her with our Babes for Breasts fundraiser) with her pal, the wondrous Emma-Lee;
May brings someone we've been waiting for a while -- Jon Brooks.

Amanda Rheaume and Tara Holloway, May 15

2010-03-30T07:15:00.001-07:00

May at BobCat brings a two-for-one show of powerhouse Ottawa women.

Amanda Rheaume is a veteran of the bar scene, the Big Money Shot, and even of Christmas CDs. She has an amazing ability to write catchy songs but still hit deep emotions. Her voice is able to deliver power-pop and soulful ballad with equal skill and emotion. Add in to that a beautiful hand-built acoustic that she can make sing, and you've got an irresistible package.

And it even gets better when Tara Holloway tags along for a duo show. Tara Holloway brings a raw passion and energy to the stage that is unmatched by anyone I've seen in Ottawa. Her voice makes me think of Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow, and Janis Joplin; her songs are windows into a funnysad world filled with broken hearts that keep on beating.

So come and watch the roof lift off the sunroom.

I can't guarantee QUITE this much volume. But here's a video of Amanda and Tara playing at last year's Bluesfest:

And here's Tara playing on TV with Creed (from the office?!) as part of SXSW:

Amanda Rheaume and Tara Holloway, with ace guitarist Jeff Logan
May 15, 2010, 7:00 mingle, 8:00 show
Suggested donation $20
Please feel free to bring a donation for the Ottawa Food Bank and/or some food to share.

We like pre-payment of your suggested donation so that others don't get shut out of the show. Please use paypal or Interac Money Transfer if you like; otherwise contact me and arrange to drop off a cheque or cash.

Jill Zmud joins us April 17

2010-03-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

New artist Jill Zmud is like so many women from Saskatchewan -- immensely talented. Her debut CD, as we quietly drive by, is way better than someone's first record oughtta be. And her performance skills are top-notch.

We met her at the kickoff show for last fall's Babes for Breasts tour, and it was one of those things where Cath immediately started nudging me. Book her. Book her. I wasn't about to exercise my veto. She's too good.

Come see her at BobCat before she's WAY too big to even
look at people like us.

Here's Jill performing at Compact Music recently:

And you can catch Jill's opening set at the January Acoustic Waves concert courtesy of the excellent CBC site Concerts on Demand.

Jill Zmud, with Chris Page
April 17, 2010
as always, 7:00 pm mingling, 8:00 show
Suggested donation $15
Please feel free to bring a donation for the Ottawa Food Bank and/or some food to share

We like pre-payment of your suggested donation so that others don't get shut out of the show. Please use paypal or Interac Money Transfer if you like; otherwise contact me and arrange to drop off a cheque or cash.

Happy Music Year!

2009-12-28T13:46:00.000-08:00

Hope all the BobCat friends had a great Christmas. I've been thinking about some of the great music we were treated to here at BobCat. We had:

Ana Miura
Amanda Rheaume
Janine Stoll & Paul MacDougall
Rhonda Stakich
Peter Elkas
Andrea Simms-Karp
Kate Weekes
David Ross MacDonald
The Undesirables (Sean Cotton & Corin Raymond)
Corin Raymond
Jonathan Byrd

grace us with amazing music. What a gift for us all.

But now it's time to start looking forward, and we've got some amazing people coming to play in 2010, starting with a show at the end of January with the amazing Nathan Rogers.

Nathan Rogers carries a family name with resonance -- and maybe with some baggage too. But once you hear him, you'll add the term "powerful performer" to the terms "son of Stan" and "nephew of Garnet". He's produced two CDs - 2005's True Stories and 2009's The Gauntlet. Both feature that rich Rogers voice, his Grit Laskin guitars, and songwriting that moves from the more conventional folk idiom you might expect to incorporate Tuvan throat-singing, beatboxing, and god only knows what.

Here's a sample of a traditional blues-styled song from Nathan's first record. "Can't sit still" was recorded at a concert Rogers did in Canmore:

Nathan's going to have a full weekend in Eastern Ontario. In addition to the BobCat show, he'll be playing a dinner+concert event in Merrickville at the lovely Yellow Canoe Café on Friday January 29, and doing a songwriting workshop on the Sunday afternoon. You can contact me for information on those events as well.

WHO: Nathan Rogers
WHERE: BobCat, 214 Northwestern Avenue
WHEN: Saturday, January 30
WHAT: $20 suggested donation. If you choose, bring some snacks to share at intermission and/or a donation to the Ottawa Food Bank.

I've no doubt this show will be FULL. So please ensure you've got a seat by reserving and providing your donation in advance. Pay by paypal or Interac money transfer by using the e-mail bob-dot-ledrew at gmail-dot-com, by cheque in the mail, or by cash in person.

And a couple of weeks after that, we have three of the brightest young women in Canadian roots music coming to the house for valentine's weekend. If you haven't heard of the Good Lovelies yet, you really need to. Kerri Ough, Caroline Brooks and Sue Passmore formed up as a unit at the Ottawa Folk Festival a couple of years ago, and this year launched their first full-length CD (Good Lovelies) and a Christmas CD (Under the Mistletoe). Both are wonderful items, capturing both their instrumental skills, their truly incredible harmonies (think the Andrews Sisters at a jam session with the Carter family), and their great original songs. But it's live where you get the full Good Lovelies experience, combining all the music with an infectious joie de vivre and good humour that would make Leonard Cohen giggle like a schoolgirl. It's rare to see an act that just seems to be having so much FUN doing what they do.

And now's your chance to see them here.

WHO: Good Lovelies
WHEN: February 13
WHERE: BobCat Love Canal
WHAT: $25 suggested donation by PayPal, Interac Money Transfer, cheque, or cash in advance please.

Corin Raymond and Jonathan Byrd, November 7

2009-10-20T11:59:00.000-07:00

We had a full house for our Thanksgiving show with the Undesirables and David Ross MacDonald. Our next show features half of the Undesirables as well as the best export from North Carolina since powered flight and NASCAR - Jonathan Byrd.

Corin Raymond, the "front man" of The Undesirables, also has a burgeoning career as a solo artist. His new CD, "There will always be a small time", has a loose-limbed, good-humoured shuffle that is instantly engaging and treats you to touches of zydeco, Roy Orbison, and honest emotions from loneliness to raucousness.

Jonathan Byrd writes songs that are almost stark in their simplicity but convey deep thoughts in simple terms. People like Tom Paxton have praised him, and he's won the "New Folk" competition at the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas. When I brought home a stack of CDs from last year's Ontario Council of Folk Festivals and went through 'em with Cathy, we listened to a bunch of people. When I put Jonathan's on, she said "Can we get him?!" I said "Yes."

Corin and Jonathan share a tremendous musicality and a love of words that will move both heart and head.

WHO: Corin Raymond and Jonathan Byrd
WHERE: BobCat, 214 Northwestern Avenue
WHEN: November 7, 7:00 mingle, 8:00 show.

Suggested donation $20.

Your optional activities:

* non-perishable food good for the Ottawa Food Bank,
* some change to help the Babes for Breasts get across Canada and back,
* dessert or snack to share if you're the sharing kind,
* BYOB if you're inclined that way.

See you soon,

Shows with David Ross MacDonald, Jonathan Byrd, Undesirables!

2009-08-30T11:08:00.000-07:00

BobCat’s got two great shows coming up this fall.

On October 10, we will be hosting the return of David Ross MacDonald to BobCat.

This Australian singer-songwriter is someone that we’ve become giant fans of, and he’s been having a wonderful year of touring in Canada.

You may have seen him at the (fabulous) Ottawa Folk Festival this year, where he brought the Hall Stage to its feet with his solo set, or you may have seen him at our place last year, where he did the same.

In fact, here’s a little taste of that solo set from the OFF, and here's an instrumental cut from a gig in Australia where David opened for the legendary Chris Smither:

David will be the special guest at the first-ever BobCat potluck early Thanksgiving dinner. The show will be on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend, so we're going to take care of turkey for everyone if you take care of the fixings.

And the special guests of our special guest will be Toronto-based duo The Undesirables. Corin Raymond and Sean Cotton are two guys who are bringing their new CD to Ottawa. Their music is full of wood -- honest, strong, shaped by nature, and crafted to evoke the best of your emotions.

Details:

WHO: David Ross MacDonald with the Undesirables
WHERE: BobCat billabong
214 Northwestern Avenue
WHEN: Saturday, October 10; 5:00 dinner; 8:00 concert
$20 suggested donation.

As always, we will require payment in advance to ensure that people aren't told that we're 'sold out' and then no-shows leave empty seats; that disappoints potential audience members and takes money out of artists' pockets. And you wouldn't want to do that, now. (All proceeds of BobCat shows go to the artist.)

Then on November 7, we have another double show you won't want to miss. Corin Raymond of the Undesirables is going to come back for a solo show of songs from his own album "There Will Always Be a Small Time", and bring along one of his other musical friends -- the amazing Jontahn Byrd.
Jonathan Byrd's songs, someone has said, "are rich with imagery and textures of influences from Appalachian, country, early American balladry, modern atmospheric Mideastern, urban and old timey folk music. A stalwart of modern folk music, Jonathan is constantly evolving in new musical directions and each incarnation has proven to be masterful."

Performing Songwriter says "Jonathan Byrd doesn’t sing songs; he sings truth."

His latest album, "The Law and the Lonesome" reminds me of a combination of Lyle Lovett and John Prine; he is a fearsomely talented songwriter with a marvelous way of arranging and singing his songs.

Jonathan Byrd and Corin Raymond
at the Bobamo
Saturday November 7, 7:00 mingle, 8:00 show
Suggested donation $20.

To get your seat for either or both of these shows put aside, email us at bob.ledrew@gmail.com. Pre-payment by cheque to our house, cash in person, or by PayPal or Interac Money Transfer is required.

See you soon!

Peter Elkas plays "Will power"

2009-02-17T12:04:00.000-08:00

For those of you who missed out on Peter's house-concert first-time, here's a little snippet. Thanks to Peter Elkas for allowing us to record and post this, and for being such a great performer.

Your feedback is important to BobCat . Seriously.

2009-02-17T06:18:00.000-08:00

Take our first-ever (and quite possibly only) survey! We'll listen to what you say, do what we like, and ignore the rest! Just like governments and corporations!

Peter Elkas, Emily Chen, and a peace bond: A valentine's day tale

2009-02-17T06:01:00.001-08:00

This is the kind of decadence and depravity that happens when people like Peter Elkas get stalked by people like Emily Chen.

I am so ashamed.

PS: If you don't know, Em did the now-famous BobCat logo, and even used it to explain the difference between raster and vector graphics in this post.

Babes for Breasts put on show, make people happy, raise money. Yay.

2009-01-26T12:57:00.000-08:00

We had such a good time Saturday night. We'll put some pictures and video up on in the next few days, but the IMPORTANT thing is that thanks to generous patrons and generous donors, we and Babes for Breasts were able to raise more than $2300 (net of expenses) for Breast Cancer Action Ottawa.

BCA Ottawa Executive Director Colleen Lyle talked quite movingly about the worthiness of the cause, and our patrons gave mightily. So thanks.

And thanks to Ana, Amanda, Rhonda, and Janine and Paul MacDougall (aka the man-Babe) for a wonderful night of four singer-songwriters with dramatically different writing and performing styles. It truly was a smorgababe. And a special thanks to Ana for all of her work on BFB. Beautiful, smart, talented and dedicated -- what else could you ask for?

And if you're regretting missing the concert, you can get a dose of Janine and Paul at Irene's Pub as they debut the first CD by their project The DoneFors, "How to have sex with Canadians"

A brief pause for this PSA

2009-01-26T04:06:00.001-08:00

I try to keep things pretty closely related to house-concert stuff here, but I do need to make a quick digression.

I just discovered a very cool and relatively new place in the city: Umi Cafe. They are, as they describe it:

"a cooperatively run cafe in the heart of Ottawa's china town. We specialize in Fair Trade organic coffee grown by indigenous peasant cooperatives in the South."

They have open-mic nights, film screenings -- it's a bit of a throwback to the legendary coffeehouses of old (think Yellow Door, but on ground-level), combined with new technology and communication and without the clouds of cigarette smoke (which probably means Joni Mitchell will never play there, but...)

They are a small group of people dedicated to principles that are pretty much unassailable. But right now they're in a rough patch. And they need some help.

So if you are in possession of a tenner, a $20-bill, or whatever, why don't you drop by their place (it's the former Chuck Brown Golf store at Somerset and Percy) and buy something, and leave a generous tip. Or check out their events and go to one. Or just give 'em some money. We're going to.

BobCat Bob.

Silent auction items for our BFB show

2009-01-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

We've got great silent auction items for the Babes for Breasts show, benefiting Breast Cancer Action Ottawa. Check these out:

This is "Earth Angel: Far beyond the meadow", acrylic on canvas, 10"x 20", by Sue McFadzen.

And this is: "Fundy National Park - A Walk in the Woods", an 8"x10" photographic print by Shane Costantino.

We will also have a seat at one of the vegan gourmet dinners put on by Zen Kitchen, a membership and conference registration from the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals, the BobCat basket full of CDs and merch from BobCat artists, and a wine dinner for 8 from Francois Rochon.

This is going to be a funnnn night.

February gets romantic with... Peter Elkas!

2009-01-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

Our February concert is one we've been working on for a while and I figured since the artist let the cat out of the bag I better tell you about it!

We are really excited to offer a romantic Valentine's Day concert with the amazing Peter Elkas on Saturday, February 14.

Ron Sexsmith says Peter Elkas "has a wonderfully soulful voice and a great sense of melody that makes me want to write and sing better and try harder.” And who are we to disagree?

After more than a decade with Montreal band the Local Rabbits, Elkas struck out on his own in the early 2000s and hasn't looked back. With two albums, 2004's "Party of One" and 2007's "Wall of Fire", he's found a niche as a performer with stage presence equal to his songwriting, and a great show.

And we think that Peter's soulful vocals and songs will make for a Valentine's Day that nobody will forget anytime soon.

If you don't believe me, check out these videos:

The details:

WHO: An intimate evening with Peter Elkas
WHEN: February 14, 2009. Mingle at 7, show at 8
WHERE: The PlayBob Catsion
214 Northwestern Avenue, Ottawa, K1Y 0M3
HOW MUCH: suggested donation $25; as always, pre-payment by cheque, PayPal or Interac Money Transfer (e-mail bob.ledrew@gmail.com) is appreciated.

For newbies, we also appreciate a donation of non-perishable food for the Ottawa Food Bank. Since this is a house concert, we encourage you to bring something to share foodwise and our concerts are strictly BYOB. Soft drinks are always available.

PS: Don't forget about our January 24 Babes for Breasts show featuring Ana Miura, Amanda Rheaume, Rhonda Stakich and Janine Stoll singing their hearts out and raising funds for Breast Cancer Action Ottawa. We'll have a full basket of CDs and clothing from BobCat performers, a wine dinner for eight with sommelier service, and original art for silent auction as well. Help us raise money to fight a nasty, shitty disease.

m on the side » The Graphic Details — raster vs. vector images (Basic)

2009-01-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

The logo for BobCat was designed by the lovely and talented -- and music loving -- Emily Chen(at left, demonstrating one of her many talents). And now, she's used it on her brand new m on the side blog to explain the difference between raster and vector graphics.

In the world of house concerts we're a little on the over-organized side, what with logos and chairs and the like. Lots of presenters just toss cushions on the floor and let things happen as they will. But when Em agreed to do our logo for FREE!! because she loves music and because she's a great person, how can you say no?

If you have graphic design or illustration needs please think of Emily. If she does work this good for free, imagine what she'll do when she's PAID.

Ciao,
Bob.

A BobCat first: Babes For Breasts Fundraiser January 24

2009-01-02T16:19:00.001-08:00

Hi folks, and happy new year to all:

Cath and I have been doing normal non-house concert things since our last show. But we've been thinking about 2009's house concert offerings too.

And we wanted to start 2009 with something unique, so here we are: We are hosting a Babes for Breasts fundraising concert on January 24, 2009. Babes for Breasts (BFB) is, according to its creator Ana Miura, a "collective of female singer/songwriters taking on the human side of breast cancer one song at a time."

Since 2003, Ana and her pals have done dozens of shows together. Most recently, a gang of Babes did 20 shows in 26 days, taking them from Saint John, NB to Duncan, BC. And that list of babes has included some of Canada's best singer-songwriters, like BobCat pals Amy Campbell and Meredith Luce as well as women including: NLX: Natasha Alexandra, Emily Fennell, Caridad Cruz, Leela Gilday, Ann Vriend, Tara Holloway, Kay Pettigrew, Sarah Loucks, Jessica Rhaye, Jess Clemons, Jeanette Arsenault, Natasha Pasternak, Jane Lui, Sarah Craig, Shannon Moan, and Q the Romantic Revolutionary.

And the talent for our show is a match for any of those names.

Of course, Ana Miura will be the head babe, as is only fitting. But joining her on stage will be local favorite performer Amanda Rheaume and Toronto's Rhonda Stakich.

For those who don't know these extremely talented women, let me sum them up briefly:

Ana Miura (L) is an award-winning singer-songwriter who has a fluid and impressive guitar style and a wonderful voice. Her writing and her performing benefit from classical training in childhood, and her songs reflect someone who's a keen observer of life and relationships. Her newest CD Mercury Rising is an EP that is a teaser / sampler for her full-length disc due out later this year. Her previous EP Tenacious Heart is in regular rotation in our CD player. Ana performed with Meredith Luce at BobCat in October 2007.

Amanda Rheaume (R) is energy personified. Recently a runner-up in Live 88.5's "Big Money Shot" competition, and the opening act for Finger Eleven at the New Year's Eve celebration on the Rideau Canal, Amanda has become a star here, and seems destined to hit the big time. Her songs are as dynamic as her performances, whether on her own or with her band. And we've had more than one request for Amanda at BobCat!

Rhonda Stakich (L) is a new discovery for us, thanks to BFB and Ana. She describes herself as "an Alberta born, Toronto based singer and songwriter influenced and inspired by dance, drama and old-fashioned ideals. Stakich arrived in the spring of 2001 to Toronto with two guitars and a suitcase full of songs. She immediately teamed up with producer/engineer Nathan Handy to record There Were Years (2002) and Mary Mary (2005) while slowly, steadily winning her way into the hearts and ears of Toronto's live music community."

And we're expecting one more Babe for the show. Stay tuned.

But there's going to be even more than amazing performances to enjoy. This is a FUNDRAISER, after all, and we need your help in making this a great night for Breast Cancer Action Ottawa.

So we've leaned on our friends to provide some great silent auction items for you to check out and bid on over the evening.

First, our musical friends have contributed their CDs to the "BobCat Basket" -- a basket of signed CDs by EVERYONE who's played at BobCat. By the 24th, I expect over 20 CDs to be in the basket.

Our friend Sue Rochon has donated an original oil painting for the show. I'll be posting an image soon.

And our pal François Rochon is donating...himself! François is not only a passionate music lover, but a trained sommelier, instructor at Algonquin College, and a specialist in the art of wine and food matching. So the high bidder will get François's services as sommelier at a wine dinner. You make up a party of eight people, and then François will help you choose a menu. Once the menu's chosen, you make dinner, then François arrives with a selection of wines for everyone and will act as waiter and sommelier for the evening, making for a filling, laughter-filled, and educational dinner experience.

We're doing this for a number of reasons. Like all concerts, we want to bring our friends great music in an intimate environment. But this one is special. Like most people, we've been touched by cancer (I had a case of bladder cancer in 2006), and by breast cancer. My Aunt Florence is a 30-year survivor. And our friend Kim, Francois's wife, passed away from metastatic breast cancer in 2007. If we can do something to help others deal with this miserable disease, and to help stop it from taking people away from us.

So come. Enjoy. And bring your chequebook so that we can send a MAJOR donation to Breast Cancer Action Ottawa.

WHAT: Babes for Breasts show at BobCat
WHO: Ana Miura, Amanda Rheaume, Rhonda Stakich, and another performer to come
WHEN: January 24, 2009, mingle anytime after 6:30, show at 8:00.
SUGGESTED DONATION: This time only, it's a minimum of $30.

See you on the 24th.

BobCat

What if roadies ran the world?

2008-10-27T11:09:00.000-07:00

A longish post to come after a weekend at the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals conference, but for now, just saw this:

Funny.

2008-10-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Just happened upon this YouTube for our pal Coco Love Alcorn. Even if you're not voting Green today, it's hard to argue with the sentiment:

Bob.

David Ross MacDonald October 18

2008-10-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder:

Australian David Ross MacDonald is our next show, on October 18.

If you need convincing as to why you should see him live, look no further than this:

Now e-mail us to reserve.

This is cool: Folk legends Cockburn, Tamblyn record tribute to Ottawa cabbie

2008-10-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

Folk legends Cockburn, Tamblyn record tribute to Ottawa cabbie

Congratulations, Bill Hawkins. And if you ever want to come to a concert, you're welcome at ours.

Ciao,
Bob.

It wasn't us.

2008-09-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

We were in Ottawa, getting ready for Gregory Hoskins. Srsly.

Ciao,
Bob.

Gregory Hoskins sticks with us, September 20

2008-09-03T08:46:00.001-07:00

Whew! Seems like we just HAD a house concert. Oh wait, we did.

Kit Soden brought his intricate guitar work and his songs of the road to the house, and Eric John brought the most soulful (literally FULL of SOUL) romantic-shouter-Al-Green-look-out voice we've had. Great show.

And now here we are back into September, and we've got a concert that we are SO excited about. Last year, friend of BobCat Paul Willson mentioned that one of his songwriting heros was Gregory Hoskins. Hard to fault him on that. He also said he though Hoskins would make a great BobCat guest.

And ... here we are! Gregory Hoskins is joining us on September 20.

If you aren't familiar with his work, here's a brief bio cobbled together by me: Some people call his music alt-folk-jazz. Others call it quiet soul. Some people say his voice is kind of like Paul Simon's, and say his songs are as bouncy as Simon's without the 20-piece band. Others compare his songs to those of Daniel Lanois. Others say that he "has an eye for the absurdities of the human plight and an ear for putting it all to music."

Back in the 1990s, his band Gregory Hoskins and the Stick People developed a sizable cult following, and since they broke up, Hoskins has been doing his own thing in his own way. He's got seven band and solo discs to his credit so far, the most recent are: Pleasure & Relief (live), and Alone in the Mayor's House, available through CandyRat Records.

AND he plays an AWESOMELY beautiful vintage Washburn hollowbody electric guitar that may well have me wearing a bib to catch the drool.

If you're still not convinced, then check out his live concert recorded by CBC last November, or you can check out a couple of videos that he's got up on his site. You'll see why some people liken his concerts to Communion.

And then, come see him in our sunroom for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

WHO: Gregory Hoskins
WHERE: BobCat Theatre, 214 Northwestern Avenue, Ottawa
WHEN: September 20, 7:00 mingle, 8:00 show
WHAT: $20 suggested donation

As always, please reserve your seats in advance, and prepay (cheque, PayPal, Interac money transfer, cash are all welcome).

Other "as alwayses": please bring a donation of non-perishable food for the Ottawa Food Bank, and if you like, something snackish to share at intermission. Our concerts are BYOB, and we encourage responsible drinking.

A little bit of Eric John

2008-09-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

BobCat shows for the fall!

2008-08-04T17:56:00.000-07:00

As you might know, we weren't expecting to kick off BobCat concerts until September, but the tragic fire at Rasputin's Folk Cafe and the decision of owner Dean Verger to retire, after 27 years of presenting Canada's and the world's great folk musicians on his stage, left a number of musicians without their scheduled gigs.

Dean asked if house concert presenters or others could help out the musicians by hosting them on their scheduled night, and that's what we're going to do.

Saturday, August 30, we'll be hosting Kit Soden of Vancouver and Montreal and local singer-songwriter Eric John at BobCat as our way of helping out Rasputin's.

Eric John is a singer/songwriter born and raised right here in Ottawa, Ontario. His original music is often compared to Dave Matthews or Ben Harper. His musical style stems from many different genres, including folk, rock, soul, blues and even reggae. No matter what style he is playing, his passion is what drives his performance and endears him to the audience. I think what's neat about Eric's music is the percussive and rhythmic nature of his playing. He's got great hands, and he's got a great voice.

Kit Soden is a new arrival in Central Canada (he just moved to Montreal in the spring), but he's been a staple in the Vancouver scene since the late 1990s. He has appeared in shows and festivals across Canada, fronting numerous touring acts such as Kaejema, The Frog Maphia, and Kit & Tim. After over a decade of performing, Kit's prolific songwriting has led him to complete this first collection of solo recordings, Highway 101. This new album blends acoustic rhythms with unmistakable vocals in what can best be described as travelers' tales from journeys of the mind, body and spirit. I really like Kit's voice -- I find it powerful but also a bit vulnerable, and hey -- aren't we all that way? You can listen to some clips from Kit's CD at his site.

So. Come listen to two great young performers and kick off the BobCat season with us in style.

WHAT: Kit Soden and Eric John @ BobCat House Concerts
WHEN: Saturday, August 30, 7:00 mingling, 8:00 music
WHERE: BobCat Manor, 214 Northwestern Avenue
HOW (much): Suggested donation $10.
WHY: 'Cause you love music!

Don't forget: We appreciate collecting the donations in advance. You can drop a cheque in the mail, drop off cheques or cash, or use PayPal to send payment to this e-mail address.

And some dates to mark in your calendars -- the fall BobCat Season is almost complete!

September: (watch this space for confirmation soon!)

October 18: Australian guitar whiz and wonderful singer-songwriter David Ross MacDonald, with his beautiful 1935 Gibson L00 guitar (guitar geeks drool here)

November 8: Amy Campbell returns with the launch of her new CD "Oh Heart Oh Highway"
December 6: Madison Violet (formerly MadViolet, with a new name, but the same stellar musicianship with wonderful harmonies, tinges of Celtic and bluegrass, and strong, strong songs)

Other stuff to remember:

The CKCU Ottawa Folk Festival is happening August 14-17, with an awesome lineup that includes Sarah Harmer, Country Joe MacDonald (Gimme an F!), the Carolina Chocolate Drops, Vieux Farka Toure, Don Ross, Roxanne Potvin, Odetta, and it gjust goes on and on! For $80 for
a festival pass (more at hte door), it's a frickin' BARGOON! And it's such a great vibe that just hanging out and enjoying yourself is worth it.

And the Ontario Council of Folk Festivals annual conferernce is taking place October 23-26. This is a major gathering for acoustic musicians and geeks like us. Bob and Cat are volunteering, and gonna be yakkin' about house concerts at a panel. Why don't you volunteer too?

How we spent our summer vacation, part 1

2008-07-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

Hanging out at the amazing Stewart Park Festival in Perth, listening to: Suzie Vinnick and The Marigolds

And David Celia, and Lynn Miles...

And Wendell Ferguson, and Australian David Ross MacDonald (joining us this October!!!!) and Cork, Ireland's Annette Buckley (playing the Black Sheep Sunday, July 26 and well worth the teensy cover charge)

And Donné Roberts, who tore up the floor with his Malagasy songs:

More summer BobCat stuff:

Bad news: Rasputin's had a nasty fire.
Good news: people are stepping up to help out performers, us included. We will be hosting Kit Soden and Eric John on August 30. More details to come.
Good news: Ray Davies was at Bluesfest. Wow. And better news: the Folk Fest is coming, with an amazing lineup including Sarah Harmer, the Duhks, Odetta, Country Joe MacDonald, Broken Social Scene, the Sadies, the Carolina Chocolate Drops, and too many more to list here. GO.
More good news: We have amazing concerts coming this fall. But that's for another post.

Happy summer everybody!

2008-06-13T12:10:00.000-07:00

It's Friday the 13th, and I want to say thanks to all of those who came out to a show in the first half of 2008, as well as our great performers, Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite, Tony D, Andy J. Forest, Penny Lang, Amy Campbell, Sarah Johnston, and Coco Love Alcorn.

We've had a wonderful first half of the year, and I now encourage you all to go find more live music this summer at Westfest, Bluesfest, the Jazz Festival, the Stewart Park Festival in Perth, the Folk Festival, with Tony D's new project Monkeyjunk at Irene's, at the Sheep, or wherever life takes you.

We're taking the summer off, since we figure most people are going to be cottaging, vacationing, and festivaling, and since we want to do some of that too!

But rest assured, we will be back in the fall with some more amazing performers.

Sweeet, sweet Coco.

2008-05-18T07:56:00.000-07:00

Every concert we host, there's always something new to do, see, or experience. And last night -- well, last night was something special.

The first first: First time that at 6:45, I'm taking the headliner out for a bike ride up to Westboro Beach and a bit of a spinning session (in part to help her work out some caffiene-inspired jitters).

The second first: a full department store size rack of shirts getting rolled into the house.

The third first: being able to see our new back yard through the windows!

The fourth first: having enough Alcorns in the house to start growing oak trees. Okay, that's a crap pun, but I'm tired.

The fifth first: having an Ottawa-based fair-trade success story bring us FREE CHOCOLATE in liquid and solid form. Yum.

Coco Love Alcorn finished up her spring swing through her newly-adopted home province (she's just moved from Vancouver to Toronto) at our house last night, and the music was SUBLIME.

We'd never seen Coco perform live, and had a suspicion she'd be great from what we'd heard on record, but ...

She's got the whole package. She can do a rap song abut "Intellectual boys", a sultry ode to her bicycle that would leave your saddle steaming, and scat her way through Route 66 with a combination of full-throated vocal pyrotechnics and a kitten-purr worthy of Blossom Dearie.

Her parlour guitar, sometimes joined by her uncle Mark Alcorn's, was sweet, and her vocals, combined with her cousin Lindsay Alcorn singing backup, are simply awesome. Coco knows how to use what is a formidable instrument.

And her songs are amazing. From quirky little numbers like "Where do robots go when they die?" to intensely sensual like "For just one night" to romantic like "Sugar", Coco's creativity is remarkable for its diversity and its accomplishment.

(And the shirts? Coco and her husband rescue shirts from Frenchy's, a regionally famous chain of secondhand clothing stores in Atlantic Canada, and add on their own silkscreened designs. Very cool.)

And the folks from La Siembra, the worker-owned fair-trade chocolate co-operative that makes the Cocoa Camino brand of chocolate, came by (one of whom did so on her birthday!) and shared their story and their product. Nice to eat something that makes you feel decadent and virtuous in equal measure.

Pictures: Mark and Coco digging in; Mark, Coco, and Lindsay Alcorn; Melanie and Colin from La Siembra, Some guy in a great shirt massacring a Garnet Rogers song, and Coco and Lindsay.

See y'all in the fall!

If you can't make Coco...

2008-05-02T07:34:00.000-07:00

I know it's kinda silly to blog about an event that's happening the same night as one of our concerts, but it's a pal, so...

If you're in Ottawa and for some reason aren't coming to our May 17 show with Coco Love Alcorn, perhaps you should think about going to Rasputin's Folk Café on Bronson, to see our pal Sarah Johnston with Kenny Voita.

Guelph native Sarah (at left, during the earth hour portion of the concert) has opened for us a couple of times now, and she is just bursting with potential and talent. I'm told that Kenny Voita is quite good as well, but I don't know his stuff.

Rasputin's is a wonderful place, and if you can't come see Coco, this show -- as well as lots of other ones they put on -- would be an excellent substitute.

In fact, on May 25th, we're hoping to get to Amy Campbell, (right) who blew so many people away opening up for the flu-challenged Penny Lang in March. Amy is playing with Melissa Larkin. On May 31, Frida's Brow will be performing. Those will undoubtedly be GREAT shows.

Aren't we lucky to live in a town with such great live music options?

BobCat

We bring Coco... and Cocoa... on May 17.

2008-04-24T06:08:00.000-07:00

Coco Love Alcorn is a BC singer-songwriter who's got a style that we haven't had here yet. Her sound is funky, sultry, laid-back, and intense. She's got a great voice, she plays well, and yes, that is her real name. Ottawa Xpress calls Coco "A bright burst of colour amidst the many shades of indie gray." She's been part of Lilith Fair, she's toured with Ani diFranco, she's toured and recorded for years with 54.40, and now you have a chance to hear her in our sunroom!

Her sweet sounds are most recently captured on her CD "Sugar", produced by Steve Dawson, and on her special edition CD "Coco Love Solo" only available at house concerts.

If all of that doesn't get you interested, check this YouTube of Coco out.

Which brings me back to the "two sweet treats." The great folks at the La Siembra co-op bring fairly traded chocolate to Ottawa under the Cocoa Camino brand.

As you likely know (especially if you had some cake at the Penny/Amy show), we at BobCat are big fans of the sweet stuff, and the Cocoa Camino chocolate is REALLY good. So we're looking forward to giving the La Siembra folks a few minutes to talk about what they do, and give everyone a taste of what they do.

So if you have a sweet tooth or a sweet ear, you have to get here. Surely between Coco, and cocoa, a great evening will unfold.

WHAT: Coco Love Alcorn at BobCat
WHERE: 214 Northwestern Ave
WHEN: May 17, mingle after 7, show at 8

Suggested donation: $20

As always, all proceeds go to the artist; please reserve and we like payment in advance; you're welcome to bring something desserty or snacky to share, as well as a donation for the BobCat Basket for the Ottawa Food Bank, and it's BYOB if you're into the potent potables.

See you on the 17th!

Penny Lang comes through.

2008-04-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

We hit bottom around 9:30 Saturday morning, when someone who claimed to be Penny Lang called. But this person sounded, to put not too fine a point on it, like Mercedes McCambridge practicing for her role in The Exorcist.

"I've got this throat thing, and I don't know if I'm going to be able to perform."

Indeed she did have a throat thing. And we had a bunch of people coming for our first anniversary house concert. We'd ordered a cake. Argh.

But we had a couple of things in our favor. Thanks to our pal Ana Miura, we had a singer-songwriter named Amy Campbell coming to open. They had been doing dates together and had finished up their mini-tour, and Amy was coming to do a couple of tunes to get things started.

We also had our pal Sarah Johnston coming to help set up the house, and she plays, as those who saw her at our Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite show know VERY well.

And heavy doses of slippery elm andVicks Vapo-rub infused steam later, we had a fine time of it. Penny didn't do full sets, and her voice was far from Penny's best. But Amy helped out (and impressed the hell out of us), and Sarah went from house-setter-upper to opening act. As you can also see, the show was held on the occasion of Earth Hour, and we did the first hour by candlelight. It was quite lovely -- more lovely than the pictures reflect.

Sarah rocked, Amy impressed, and Penny moved. And the cake was delicious. Then we collapsed in relief.

Not that you've ever wondered...

2008-01-23T11:14:00.001-08:00

But this is what it's like to set up for a house concert.

Thanks to Russ and Julie's House Concerts and their filmmaking friends for the glimpse. There are many more Russ and Julie's videos available on Youtube too.

PS: Volunteer labour is ALWAYS encouraged at BobCat.

B

Our friends Dave and Anne Marie welcome Joël Fafard

2008-01-13T14:49:00.000-08:00

We're really excited to tell folks that our friends Dave and Anne Marie are taking the plunge and starting to do their own house concerts! They have a great house for concerts, and their first performer will be a real treat. Here's their info:

Night of Light with Joël Fafard

February is still the dark time of the year, although the days get
longer and fill with light. It's this light we would like to revel in
with you. Come and warm yourselves on a winter's night by celebrating
Anne and Dave's anniversary and Sean and Jennifer's February birthdays
at a house concert featuring Joël Fafard!

Joël Fafard is that rare breed of instrumentalist: the kind whose appeal reaches far beyond the realm of serious guitar enthusiasts. The gifted slide fingerstyle player writes stirring, melodic compositions that paint pictures as vivid as any song with words. He introduces them on-stage with hilarious commentary delivered in a "hillbilly farm-boy" stage persona that quickly wins his audience over.

And when he sinks his chops into a number like "Face Down in the Rhubarb," well, let's just say the serious guitar enthusiasts aren't disappointed either.

Juno 2007 Nominated - Instrumental Album of the year
Western Canadian Music Awards 2006 Winner - Outstanding Instrumental Recording
Canadian Folk Music Awards 2006 Nominated - Best Instrumentalist, Solo

The 411:

February 2, 2008, Doors open at 7 PM, show starts at 8 PM sharp
375 Piccadilly Avenue (Just east of Island Park Drive, near Wellington)
Tickets are $20, call to reserve and arrange pre-payment:

Sean and Jennifer at 613-726-3372
Anne and Dave at 613-729-1428

BYOB, and bring your favourite snack to share!

February 10: Sunday afternoon swamp romp with Tony D, Andy J. Forest, and Steve Dunn.

2008-01-13T12:17:00.000-08:00

BobCat House Concerts is heading south in February. Unfortunately, it’s only a metaphor, and we will be our pasty white selves for the foreseeable future… but even so, there’s a treat to be had.

We in Ottawa are lucky to have guitarist Tony D as one of our own. For years, he’s played with anyone and everyone and become a linchpin of Ottawa’s blues scene. And Tony is bringing his endless creativity to BobCat, along with a couple of great friends of his.

Even though Andy J. Forest was born in Washington State, his soul found him in Louisiana, where he has become a tremendously acclaimed singer, writer, harmonica player, and artist. With a lucky 13 albums to his credit (including a live CD recorded with Tony D and the band at the Rainbow), Andy is a frequent visitor to Ottawa.

Tony and Andy are bringing along veteran percussionist Steve Lund, who’s played with them before, as well as the Drew Nelson band, blues legend Dutch Mason, and many others.

Just the facts:

Andy J. Forest, Tony D and Steve Lund
Sunday, February 10, 1:00 mingling, 2:00 show
Suggested donation $20
As always, we provide non-alcoholic beverages; please feel free to bring beverages of your choice, some appetizer-ish food to share, and a donation of non-perishable food or cash for the Ottawa Food Bank.
Reserve your seat via e-mail (bob.ledrew@gmail.com); we request prepayment -- please don’t short-change the artists!

Merry Christmas, all...

2007-12-24T12:32:00.000-08:00

To the several hundred people who made it to a BobCat show in 2007, to the folks who opened up our shows (BobCat Bob, Dave Haskins, Rob Bowman, Heather Daley, and Rachel Ferguson) and to the wonderful performers who made it worth everyone's while to come out (Tony D, Suzie Vinnick (twice!), David Gogo, Lynn Miles, Wendell Ferguson, Katherine Wheatley, Coco Love Alcorn (who we had to cancel on in 2007 but has promised to give us another chance in 2008, Ana Miura, Meredith Luce, and Rick Fines) the Merriest of Christmases.

In an act of dedication, I was out Saturday preserving "BobCat Arena", as you can see here:

The good news -- the roof didn't leak a drop during Sunday's rain. The bad news -- if you were hoping for us to install the retractable roof dealio from the Olympic Stadium in Montreal... it's not gonna fit, so our concerts will have to have a roof over their head for the foreseeable future.

If you aren't already signed up for Chris & Diana, you're probably out of luck; but worry not -- there are more great shows coming in 2008, and we will have details early in the new year on several of them.

Merry Christmas. Enjoy some great music over the holidays.

Bob and Cat.

Another chance to see Chris Whiteley - Vinyl Cafe tour

2007-12-01T09:23:00.001-08:00

I should point out that those who want to see Chris Whiteley at any cost can get a taste of him by going to one of the shows on the Vinyl Cafe's Christmas Tour.

Stuart MacLean and his gang put on a fine show (I've been, so I know), and in addition to Chris, my heeeeero Danny Michel (who HAS to come and do a BobCat show before I run out of tunes to cover -- so far, I've managed to mangle "Invisible Man", "Whale of a Tale", "Old Tattoo", and "I will love you for miles", and I won't stop until I destroy his catalogue entirely) and other musicians whose names I can't remember or find on the Web (CURSE YOU GOOGLE).

Of course, our pal Suzie Vinnick is a proud alumna of the Vinyl Cafe tours, and regular parts of the orchestra include John Sheard and Dennis Pendreth

In any case, I'm sure that the whole tour will be great. They are in Ottawa on December 22 and 23, at the National Arts Centre.

And if you can't make it to that, come to a show and I will do my best Stuart McLean impression for you. "It was a warm evening, the kind of evening where people sit on their front porches waving magazines in front of their faces... thin magazines, like Time Canada or the Watch Tower, not like Vanity Fair... except for Dave, who was waving a copy of Penthouse and wondering why Morley was mad at him..."

Chris & Diana full up

2007-12-01T09:07:00.001-08:00

I think we're going to have to get a bigger house. Chris & Diana's January 19 show is totally full. So if you haven't yet been in touch, you're going to have to go on our waiting list (or take me to Marinoni to buy me a new bike, in which case you might get VIP admission...)

Best of luck to all the nominees in the Canadian Folk Music Awards, which take place tonight at the Museum of Civilization. I'm wishing particular good luck to some of the nominees who may well pop up at a house concert in 2008, like this person, or this one, or this one. There are others, but I'm too scared to say who they might be for fear they'll evaporate. Stay tuned ... it's going to be a great year.

2008 kicks off with Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite

2007-11-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

BobCat is starting the year 2008 off with a unique take on some classic blues with Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite.

We got Chris and Diana's CD "Morning Sun" last spring from our friend and BobCat devotee François, and it immediately became a favourite. And when they played the Ottawa Folk Festival in August 2007, we were totally sold on them.

This duo -- more than talented enough as individuals -- have applied their creativity to writing an album of blues songs that are tributes to blues styles of the 30s and 40s, but bring wonderful energy, spirit, and maybe a little naughty innuendo that will make even the most rhythmically-illiterate tap a toe and snap a finger.

Chris Whiteley, part of the famous Whiteley family of musicians (Ken, Jenni, etc etc), has been playing profesisonal for more than 30 years. He's played with everyone from Leon Redbone and John Hammond Jr. to country stars Prairie Oyster and Stompin' Tom Connors. His own recordings have been recognized with a Jazz Report Blues Album of the Year, six Juno Award nominations, Maple Blues Awards and a SOCAN Songwriter of the Year nod. Chris's songs have been recorded by Prairie Oyster, Amos Garret, Cindy Church, Penny Lang, Quartette and Juno-winning blues band Fathead. He has also written for radio, television and film.

Dubbed as “Canada’s National Treasure” by Blues FM Radio Show Host Danny Marks, Diana Braithwaite is unquestionably one of the most authentic blues singers of today.

Born into a musical family in Canada, Diana's descendants on her mother’s side arrived in the country from the southern United States via the Underground Railroad where they were given an acreage of rocky land to farm in the Glenallen area. Diana’s career as a solo singer-songwriter emerged as a teenager and she has played with everyone from Albert Collins to Buddy Guy to Jeff Healey to Robert Cray to Pinetop Perkins. Sarah Mclachlan chose Diana as one from 400 singer/songwriters to open the 1999 Lilith Fair at the Molson Amphitheatre.

A recipient of the African-American Women in the Arts Award in Chicago, Diana's songs Bad Luck Man and Blame it on the Bourbon were on the soundtrack for the Gemini Award-winning film, GRACIE, and won a Yorkton Golden Sheaf Award for Best Musical Score.

Diana says: "I am the real thing because I am who I am. Keeping the blues alive. Making my own path and carrying on."

Together, their sound harks back to the Chicago's Bluebird Records, with performers like Sonny Boy Williamson, Memphis Minnie, Tampa Red, Big Bill Broonzy, and Lonnie Johnson.

Their show is warm, funny, and their skills as singers and musicians are formidable. And if you don't believe me, get samples of their sound at Amazon.ca.

Diana and Chris are coming to BobCat Saturday, January 19 for an evening concert. As always, mingling and munching at 7, a show at 8, and a break to snap up snacks (and CDs) in the middle. And as always, you are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Ottawa Food Bank or, if you don't have any rice or pasta floating about, a dollar or two for the Food Bank jug.

E-mail for a seat, and do it quickly -- if our last show is any indication, we'll fill up fast.

The details again:

Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite @ BobCat House Concerts
January 19, 7:00 pm mingling, 8:00 pm 'curtain'
Suggested donation $25.00
Reserve via e-mail, prepayment by arrangement or by using PayPal (please add $1 per payment for the PayPal service charge -- not $1 per person, but if you're paying for four, $101 instead of $100.)

See you in the New Year!

SA-TUR-DAY, HEY! Rick and Suzie rock.

2007-11-18T13:22:00.000-08:00

In the unlikely event that we ever get discouraged about house concerts, memories of November 17, 2007 will serve to put us back in a good mood.

Rick Fines and Suzie Vinnick put on not one, but TWO fabulous shows for us, with over 60 people getting to hear some absolutely wonderful musicianship and songs.

Those who were at the evening show got an extra treat when their musical pals Wendell Ferguson and Katherine Wheatley, in town for the Healing Garden benefit concert today (November 18), dropped by and ended up getting up to play and sing with Suzie and Rick.

Here's some of what it looked like. If only you could have heard it!

We also have a big box of food for the Ottawa Food Bank, lots of new Rick & Suzie fans, and our first show of 2008 to announce (in a separate post). Enjoy the pics.

Twice the Suzie & Rick is GO!

2007-11-13T13:14:00.000-08:00

Hi there -- just to formally tell folks that Suzie Vinnick and Rick Fines are doing an afternoon and an evening show with us at BobCat. While our evening show remains totally jammed with people, there are some seats available in the afternoon.

Second show:

Rick Fines and Suzie Vinnick @ BobCat House Concerts
1:00 mingle, 2:00 show
Suggested donation: $20, (please pay in advance)
e-mail us to put seats on hold.

How exciting to see so many people who want to experience great music. See y'all Saturday!

Suzie & Rick, filling up quick

2007-11-06T04:07:00.001-08:00

Hello to first-time visitors from the OFF Folkbits list or the LizbluesOttawa list. Just want to let folks know that we are filling up, but have about a half-dozen seats left for the Rick & Suzie show.

If I can be immodest for a sec -- you'll never have an opportunity to see these two in a more intimate, comfortable space than BobCat, unless you get them to come over to your living room for a private show.

So don't hold back. There's lots of nice folks to meet, good food to eat, and the music will be AWESOME.

See ya,

BobCat Bob

Moving Meredith, affecting Ana, and rocking Rachel

2007-10-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

Biggest crowd ever at our concert last Saturday featuring Meredith Luce, Ana Miura, and opener Rachel Ferguson.

It was a wonderful show, with a tremendous amount of energy, enthusiasm, and talent demonstrated by these three young women. And that energy got reflected back to them by a very appreciative crowd.

Here are some shots, if you want a... er, peek... at the evening. (Some photos, including the one at left, courtesy of Emily Chen, whose M Wears tees were sported by Meredith Luce and BobCat Bob, and who designed the fantabulous BobCat logo. What a creative gal!)

Both Cath and I were somewhat disturbed to discover that two of our three performers could easily be our children. Sure, you say, you're both from Cape Breton, where a generation is 13-15 years. But still...

Rachel Ferguson was kind enough to come over from Aylmer and open the show. She has a lovely voice and an unflinching gaze on some sensitive matter, and you just feel as if she could explode. A real treat.

Ana Miura is at a very different stage of her musical career than Rachel. With her fluid voice and her guitar playing, she's able to create a beautiful stories in her songs, and she has a sly sense of humour that finds its way into her between-song conversation. Her set was simply lovely, with an especially beautiful version of her song Transcanadian.

And finally, we had Meredith (or in honour of Halloween Merry-death) Luce. It's so great to meet young people (which makes me sound old, but still) who are so talented AND so together. Meredith's songs are wonderfully conceived and she's such a convincing performer, it would be impossible to not be won over by her.

I did my best, however, to alienate potential fans by demanding she (with virtually no rehearsal) sing "I will love you for miles" with me in my ongoing obsession with doing Danny Michel tunes until he agrees to do a show.

It's all my fault. Don't hate her.

Still seats left for Suzie Vinnick and Rick Fines. Don't wait too long and be disappointed.

Next show: Meredith Luce and Ana Miura, October 27

2007-09-28T05:12:00.000-07:00

Hi there music lovers:

BobCat is back on its feet (or is that paws?), and we have an October treat for you, with two tremendously talented, bright, and powerful young women who we’re calling “the next big things from Ottawa”.

Meredith Luce and Ana Miura will bring their songs to BobCat on October 27, and this will be all treat, no trick.

Even though Meredith Luce has just released her first full-length CD October, her talent and composed vocals demonstrate a musical maturity far beyond her years. She describes her music as “Feist jamming with Sheryl Crow at a Carter Family picnic”, and I don’t think I can top that. Alan Neal of CBC Radio says “this is a voice I can’t get enough of”, and after hearing her you’ll agree.

Ana Miura is becoming a bit of a musical chameleon. As part of the collective Amos th e Transparent, she says she’s “learning to be
the chick with the electric guitar”; as the prime mover behind Babes for Breasts, she is equal parts perfomer (with musical friends like Amanda Rheaume), fundraiser, and organizer; and as a singer-songwriter, she is a performer who brings her audiences music with lots of delicate and powerful grace. Ana’s latest recording project is the EP Tenacious Heart, and she is touring nationwide.

Think of this show as an investment in dinner-party conversation – in a couple of years, when people talk about seeing either of these young talents at the NAC or other big soft-seat venues, you can talk about the night you saw them with a couple of dozen friends and neighbours.

Meredith Luce and Ana Miura
At BobCat House Concerts
October 27, 2007, Mingle at 7, show at 8 (BYOB)
Suggested donation, $20 (prepayment required)

Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Ottawa Food Bank.

Cancellation - Coco Love Alcorn, September 15

2007-09-05T07:46:00.000-07:00

Sadly, we have had to cancel the Coco show on September 15. However, Coco will be doing a show on September 16 at the Black Sheep Inn in Wakefield at 4:00 pm.

For those of you who have already paid by cheque, we can destroy or return cheques and will get in touch via e-mail shortly.

Check her out with additional acts Claire Jenkins and Jack Lavoie.

Hope to see you all at the October 27 or November 17 show.

Bob and Cathy.

3 must-see fall 2007 BobCat shows

2007-08-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, but BobCat has been working away on concerts for the fall of 2007, in between real life. Much of last weekend was spent at the Ottawa Folk Festival, listening to wonderful performances by some people who are already booked, have already performed at BobCat, or are now firmly ensconced on our list of "want'ems."

Among the highlights for us:

Penny and Jason Lang - a legend and a legend in the making
Jah Yussuf - a Malian n'goni player who jammed the blues with Chris Whitely to ecstatic levels
Buffy Sainte-Marie - such power. such presence.
Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite - killer blues set Sunday night that had folks dancing in the aisles
Kate Weekes Trio - sweetly-voiced songs with great appeal
Oh Susanna - a pure voice with purely insightful songs
a slightly over-caffeinated Meredith Luce, leading a great workshop show
the Arrogant Worms - able to make us laugh till we ached with great musicianship
Old Man Luedecke - great banjo playing and insightful writing.

It's a great festival, and if the universe unfolds as it should, we may be slightly more formally involved in 2008.

And we're ready to announce 3 shows, with a fourth to hopefully get added soon.

Our first show will be Saturday, September 15, with BC singer-songwriter Coco Love Alcorn. There is no shortage of musical families in Canada, and Coco is part of a great one. But she doesn't need family ties to make her way in the music business – from touring with Ani diFranco to working with 54-40 to her own music being featured on "The L word", Coco has mixed up a potent blend of jazz, folk, and R&B that has irresistible groove. And Coco loves her bike, so we're organizing a Sunday ride to show her some of Ottawa's best riding. If you're interested in joining up, let us know.

On October 27, we're featuring what we're calling the Ottawa Up and Comers show. Our headliners are going to be two performers who call Ottawa home, but will soon be known to Canada and the world. Meredith Luce and Ana Miura are both young, both immensely talented, and both captivating on stage. Meredith released her first CD, October, this summer, while Ana's EP Tenacious Heart came out a little earlier. Most recently, Ana has been singing with local collective Amos the Transparent, while Meredith has formed a group to bring the electric edge to her songs. We think that these musicians, who are very different in styles but are both insightful writers and charismatic performers, will make a great two-for-one act. See 'em now, before you have to go to the NAC!

On November 17, the first return performer to BobCat is... Suzie Vinnick, this time with her longtime collaborator and friend Rick Fines. Suzie is one of Saskatchewan's great musical exports, able to growl out a blues or sing a sweet love song with her powerful voice, and to play a mean riff or two on guitar or on her wild-looking bass. Rick Fines has graced Canadian stages since the 1980s with Jackson Delta, on his own, with Suzie, and with his trio. His guitar playing is simply amazing, with tremendous fingerstyle skills and the ability to match his accompaniments to his gravelly, evocative voice. His most recent solo album, Solar Powered, is a masterpiece, and his work with Suzie Vinnick rings with good humour and the ability to push each other to musical greatness.

We are hoping to have one more show in the fall, but wanted to give you the opportunity to "save the dates" for these three.

The details:

Each show will be $20 per seat
We require payment in advance. You can use Paypal by going to our site (http://www.bobcathouseconcerts.blogspot.com/; otherwise contact us to make arrangements for dropping off a cheque or cash.
Show starts at 8:00; you're welcome to come and mingle early
We'll have a few munchies available; if you want to contribute, please do
Our shows are BYOB; we provide non-alcoholic refreshments and encourage responsible consumption
Music is food for the soul; but some people need real food. Please bring some
non-perishable food items; we will deliver them to the Ottawa Food Bank.

Those dates again:

September 15 - Coco Love Alcorn
October 27 - Meredith Luce and Ana Miura
November 17 - Rick Fines and Suzie Vinnick

Lots of great ideas for shows in 2008 as well. We love to get your ideas too -- is there someone you love? Maybe all it takes is an e-mail. Do you play? Would you like to open a show? Do you have a concept for a show? Let us know.

Wendell & Wheatley -- two seats open

2007-06-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

Due to a last-minute cancellation, we have two, count 'em TWO, seats available to the first comer.

If you want 'em, e-mail me at the usual address. First come, first serve.

See the lucky concertgoers tomorrow!

Cheers,

BobCat.

Wendell and Wheat sold out

2007-04-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Well that didn't take you long.

Wendell and Wheat on June 8 is officially sold out, but we can do a waiting list. Let me know if you want on. There are some tentatives at this point.

Thanks,

Bob and Cath.

Lynn Miles. Wow.

2007-04-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

It seems at least once per concert, I have the thought "how can this be happening in my house?" float through my head.

Last night, Lynn Miles put on a transcendent show, with songs from her last two or three CDs, including Unravel, Love Sweet Love, and Night in a Strange Town wowing a full house of 32 people.

For those out there in the blogosphere who don't know her, Lynn Miles is an exquisitely talented songwriter with a vocal talent that reminds me a little of Nanci Griffith, Emmylou Harris, and a soprano Jennifer Warnes. Her songs explore the worlds inside us, with their fields of heartbreak and hope growing and lying fallow. And she kinda looks like Agent 99 from Get Smart. Which is a good thing.

We were also treated to an encore by Lynn and Lonesome Paul duetting on Gram Parsons's great song "Streets of Baltimore" that took us to some dust bowl campfire somewhere. Wow.

New stuff last night: Stage lights. Better, but not perfect yet. Biggest stage setup, with two vocal mics, a guitar mic, a piano, and inputs for a guitar and a mandolin. WAY too much cable, which I will organize better.

Great stuff last night: Besides Lynn Miles, the FOOD. People did some amazing potluck dessert and munchables. Lynn's song "Brave Parade" from Unravel. My new most favorite song of all time.

Not so great stuff last night: I sucked backing up our opening guy Rob Bowman. Too much stuff around, and I was concentrated more on not hitting something or someone with the guitar neck than playing right. Bleah.

New ideas: We may do an open mic on the Sunday afternoon after Saturday night shows. More details later.

Thanks, Lynn.

Lynn Miles nearly sold out

2007-04-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

Hi folks: as of 5:00 Monday, April 2, there are only 5 or 6 seats remaining for Lynn Miles.

So please send e-mail to bob dot ledrew at gmail dot com to book your seats; these likely won't last long.

Lynn Miles at BobCat April 21!

2007-03-30T10:04:00.000-07:00

The luminous Lynn Miles visits BobCat for an intimate evening

Saturday, April 21, 2007, 8:00pm

Chez BobCat, 214 Northwestern Avenue

The Juno-winning Lynn Miles brings her wonderful voice and songs to BobCat.

After five acclaimed CDs (most recently Love Sweet Love), Lynn Miles has an international reputation as a singer and songwriter. We're lucky she calls Ottawa home.

The Dallas Morning News sez: “With her crystal-clear voice and an insightful songwriting style, Ottawa, Canada’s Lynn Miles is one of the most acclaimed singer / songwriters to cross the border since Joni Mitchell in the late 1960s.”

And we're REALLY lucky to have her as our third performer at BobCat. If you don't know her yet, get acquainted at: http://lynnmilesmusic.com.

See you then!

The rules:

Show starts at 8; guests welcome from 7:00 for mingling, eating, drinking, laughing.

BYOB. Some light appetizers and soft drinks provided. If anyone wants to pitch in an appetizer, please advise so we can coordinate.

tickets $20; we are now requiring pre-payment for BobCat tickets. Pay via Paypal right here, or e-mail me for old-skool payment. Please pay $21 via PayPal to cover the transaction costs to us.

For information about last-minute additions to the guest list, best to call us at 613.728.2148. Our e-mail, as always: bob.ledrew@gmail.com

And as always: PLEASE feel free to forward this invitation to friends who you think would like to attend.

After Lynn Miles, our next show is Wendell Ferguson and Katherine Wheatley, June 8.

Gogo is gone-gone.

2007-03-26T06:10:00.000-07:00

After a VERY cool performance chez BobCat last night, David Gogo is heading back west, first to his BC home and then on to Saskatoon and the Junos, where we will be hoping to toast this first Juno win for best blues album.

His show last night was super. I've never held a 1910 Gibson guitar before. I felt as if Robert Johnson was going to walk in and tell me to put his guitar down. It was that beautiful. And that different from modern guitars.

Some pictures will be going up later today (UPDATE: So it wasn't later today, but they're coming, despite a balky Blogger), but they will likely not convey the passion that David brings to his music... or his great ability at storytelling between songs. From Bob Dylan's "Shooting Star" to his own "She's Breakin' Through" to some fabulous slide work on "Dust My Broom", he can make his instruments (the Gibson, as well as a 1930 National guitar that just sounded ... buttery, rich, and sweet) walk and talk.

Suffice it to say, that if you weren't there, you missed something.

Friday Random 10(tm)

2007-03-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

I do this on my other blog, and since there's some common cause, I'm going to post here too:

The first 10 tunes my iPod spit out this morning are:

Madeline, Irish Descendants
Closing Time, Leonard Cohen
Hoochie Coochie Man, Eric Clapton
Rainslicker, Josh Ritter
Milling Set, Jamie MacInnis and Paul MacNeil
Duncan Johnstone Set, Buddy MacMaster
The Night Before, The Beatles
Goodbye Grace, Spirit of the West
Coaltown Road, The Barra MacNeils
Tacoma Trailer, Leonard Cohen

Annotations: wow, what an East Coast set of tunes. Two sets of fiddle tunes, the Barras, the Irish Descendants (sociable!), and a touch of Spirit of the West. Even one of the Leonard tunes has some fiddle stuff happening. Beaten-to-death-Bob-anecdote-number-482: Went to high school with Stewart MacNeil of the Barras, and it was he who first exposed me to Stan Rogers and "Barrett's Privateers", quite likely changing my life. Thanks, Stewart.

PS: Went to see Suzie Vinnick and Rick Fines play at the NAC's Fourth Stage last night, as a CD release party for their disc "Nothing Halfway". What a great show. Rick Fines is a fine guitarist and is an evocative vocalist, and Suzie shone as she always does. Charlie Sohmer opened up with a nice set of bluegrass flavored songs.

6 Days 'til Gogo goes at it!

2007-03-19T17:02:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder, folks:

David Gogo visits chez BobCat on March 25, just before he heads to Saskatchewan to (hopefully) bring a 2007 Juno back to his British Clumbia home.

Send me an e-mail if you want to reserve seats.

Suzie Vinnick and Rick Fines CD release Mar 22

2007-02-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

A note to let you all know that Suzie Vinnick and Rick Fines are doing a CD release show for their CD "Nothing Halfway" in the congenial confines of the NAC's Fourth Stage on March 22.

Tickets $25; available through TicketMonster or more reasonably at the Ottawa Folklore Centre.

Well worth going; we'll be there.

BobCat.

The final chapter on Danny Michel's big fan

2007-02-20T14:35:00.000-08:00

From Danny Michel's site again...

"Dear,Danny MichelHello again.It's me Levon.(The kid the cops kicked out)Last night was the BEST NIGHT OF MY LIFE!It was so much fun.I want to thank you for allowing me to have such an awsome time.Like you said "I hope you had the same fun as I did listening to you".You are the greatest idol anyone could ever have.I hope i'll see you in the future.
Your BIGGEST fan,Levon"

More on Danny Michel's Friday night ...

2007-02-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

Great picture, great story, from Danny's Web site:

"It's not every day something this special & fun happens at a show. A while back a kid named Levon emailed me to tell me about how he was a big fan, but wasn't allowed to come to my show because he was only 10. So, I cleared it with the Black Sheep so he could come. He sat right in the front row. Then at the encore, the cops came in & there was all this commotion & he was hauled off, with 20 seconds of the show left. So me, being full of rum & cokes said "what's going on? Get him back in here!" (excpet i think there was more swearing?) I left the stage and went outside to bring him back in. I explaining he couldn't be kicked out because he was in the band......so I brought him on stage. but then we had to do a tune. He requested "Ashes to Ashes" by Bowie (Hilarious, because I told the crowd all night - no Bowie tunes) So we sang a duet & he sang his heart out. The crowd went mental, and the cops left. It was his 1st show he'd ever been to & he wound up having a run in with the law AND singing the encore. I think he'll remember that one. He looked at me and said "i am your biggest fan....forever!" It was the best moment on stage for me...forever. Danny "

Some great music this weekend...

2007-02-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

Got to see some great music this weekend, all at the Black Sheep Inn. After a Thursday night CBC Radio taping, Danny Michel gave one of the quirkiest shows I've seen him... or anyone ... do on Friday night, with everything happening from a malfunctioning lamp that got tossed around the stage to an audience member wailing on harmonica on "Tennessee Tobacco" to a unique special guest for the encore of "Ashes to Ashes" (can I have a shout-out for Levon, the coolest 10-year-old in the world).

Opening for Danny Michel was Michelle (Red) April, who did quite well for herself. Some interesting guitar style, a great harmonica player, and a lovely voice. She's got some potential.

Sunday afternoon brought two Montrealers to the Sheep. I'd never heard of Rob Lutes, but he got some great promotion from the Citizen last week, and didn't disappoint. Very solid fingerstyle songwriter, with a killer lead guitar player (Rob MacDonald, playing some very hot licks on a resophonic guitar). Lutes had a really interesting singing style, often singing in an almost-whisper. Did a great job of pulling listeners into his lyrics, I thought. I particularly liked a song he wrote about Spaulding Gray called "Staten Island Ferry".

He opened for Joe Grass, who I had first heard at a Vinyl Café concert, and who wowed the crowd (oooh, a rhyme) with his slide and fingerstyle playing.

Seeing someone so young with such prodigious skills on the guitar always makes me feel two things at once:

Go home, quit my job, and practice practice practice
Go home, get a hatchet, and chop all my guitars into little pieces of kindling

I do wonder, though, if Grass's apparent shyness / introversion is a consequence of working and playing the way he does or whether that sort of playing attracts people who are naturally shy. Hm.

Presenting ... Juno nominee David Gogo on March 25

2007-02-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

Y'know, I think we're the luckiest folks in the world. How else can you explain getting to host 2007 Juno nominee on March 25, a mere week before the Junos?

We are so excited to have the opportunity to present a solo acoustic performance by the fantastic bluesman David Gogo as BobCat Artist #2.

A native of Nanaimo, British Columbia, David has already won two Maple Blues awards as Guitarist of the Year, and his new album Acoustic is up for “Blues Album of the Year” at the 2007 Juno Awards in Saskatoon on April 1st and David will be in attendance.

Whether it's one of his own compositions like "All I can Do" or standards like "Dust my Broom", David's passionate vocals and prodigious guitar skills will leave you hooting and shouting for more -- at least that's what his playing does to people like Johnny Winter, Colin James, and Jeff Healey.

David has shared the stage with everyone from B.B. King to George Thorogood to Little Feat and Downchild, and festivalgoers may recall his outstanding performance opening for ZZ Top at the 2005 Ottawa Bluesfest.

He is truly a joy to listen to, and (in my totally biased opinion) you'd be crazy to say no to an opportunity to see him in the uniquely intimate setting of a BobCat concert.

You NEED to hear this guy. So come on out. (If you need samples, check out David's Web site or MySpace page.

David Gogo will perform chez BobCat on Sunday evening, March 25 ,starting around 7:00. I know, I know, it's a Sunday -- but we promise you'll be heading home no later than 10, although David's playing may get you so charged up the last thing you'll want will be an early bedtime.

Cost for this exceptional show will be $25, and we encourage you to bring some light snacks along. You will not be disappointed. Reserve your seat early by e-mailing us.

JUST THE FACTS:

WHO: BC Bluesman David Gogo
WHERE: Chez BobCat, 214 Northwestern Avenue
WHEN: Sunday, March 25, 2007 -- arrive anytime after 6:00, show starts at 7:00
SUGGESTED DONATION: $25.00

One show confirmed! Book June 8 in your calendar

2007-02-14T08:34:00.000-08:00

BobCat House Concerts is proud to present...

Wendell Ferguson and Katherine Wheatley in concert
Friday, June 8, 2007
7:30 pm

It's been said that when Wendell Ferguson and Katherine Wheatley play, one won't leave a dry eye in the house, while the other won't leave a dry seat.

Katherine Wheatley is a geologist by training and a performer by passion. Her songs are catchy without being sappy, and her experience in Canada's more wild climes and in Africa has fed the sense of adventure that any musician and writer needs. She's got two solo CDs to her credit -- "Straight Lines" and "Habits and Heroes" -- and is part of the Toronto group Betty and the Bobs, Wendell Ferguson's group The Smoking Section, and the Pomelos. She's appeared on almost any CBC program you can name and done tons of other work, and she's the public face of the "Give in a Heartbeat" campaign for the West Parry Sound Health Centre in her home town.

Wendell Ferguson has played with Katherine Wheatley for years, and has the rare combination of truly prodigious musical skills and a truly twisted sense of humour. A winner of the Canadian Country Music Association's Guitarist of the Year so many times they "retired" him (seriously!), he has contrtibuted to records and concerts by a galaxy of stars. You might recognize George Fox, Shania Twain, Lisa Brokop, Michelle Wright, Tommy Hunter, The Dixie Chicks, Quartette, Cindy Church, Murray McLauchlan, Bob Snider, Gordon Lightfoot, Jane Siberry, James Keelaghan... well, Wendell's played with them all. But it's when he gets out on his own that the laughs threaten to drown out the cheers. With CDs like "The S**T hits the fans" and "Happy songs sell records, sad songs sell beer" and songs like "Rocks and Trees", "The Barnyard Two-step" and "Great Big Johnson", you get the idea.

An evening with Wendell and Katherine will leave you inspired by the music and exhausted from the laughter.

To join us in enjoying Wendell and Katherine, simply e-mail to reserve your seats. Space is limited (we don't live in a mansion, after all). Suggested donation is $20.

Possible upcoming shows -- March 22? June 8?

2007-02-13T12:30:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how things are coming together. While I don't want to promise right now, or give away too many details, we may have shows on March 22 (50/50 chance right now) and on June 8 (90% confirmed, unless something goes HORRIBLY wrong).

I promise that you'll be totally impressed with who will be playing.

This is so much fun!

BobCat

More photos available

2007-02-11T13:54:00.000-08:00

Check out Cathy's Flickr stream.

Or scroll, baby, scroll...

A baby BobCat is born

2007-02-11T07:19:00.000-08:00

Last night, in front of a motley crew of friends, colleagues, and folk from near and far, Bob and Cathy were pleased to:

Celebrate Cathy's 40th birthday in truly rockin' style, and
Celebrate the birth of our bouncing baby BobCat House Concerts with the awesome duo of Suzie Vinnick and Tony D.

It's sometimes difficult to know exactly how things are going over when you're trying to keep everything going, and this was a bit ... unusual as a combined party / house concert.

But, if you'll pardon the crudity, Suzie and Tony ROCKED THE FUCKING HOUSE!

From Howlin' Wolf to Lowell George to their own songs to a rousing and down-and-dirty-bluesy chorus of "Happy Birthday" for Cath (the Cat of BobCat), they brought the friendly, warm vibe to our house that they bring to every show and then some.

Tony was hot off gigs paying tribute to his late mentor Dutch Mason and getting ready for his big Hendrix tribute show at Barrymore's, and Suzie was

(a) touring madly;
(b) fresh from snagging THREE Maple Blues Awards;
(c) waiting to hear whether she and Rick Fines will continue to dominate their category in the International Songwriting Competition (Rick Fines won in 2004; Suzie in 2005; and a Suzie+Rick co-written song is a finalist in 2006!) ; and
(d) getting ready for an official CD release for her new disc with her other musical buddy Rick Fines, "Nothing Halfway" (March 22 at the NAC's Fourth Stage).

We couldn't have had better openers for our series. The music was exquisite. When you have played as often as Tony and Suzie have, it seems like there's a telepathy between the two of them, and the songs just flow out. Suzie's vocal talents are unbelievable, and she is a quick-witted and creative guitarist. And anyone who's heard Tony knows that whether it's a flamenco-flavoured rock tango or an all-out Howlin' Wolf blastoff, his red Gibson 135 and his blond Strat seem to exhale inventive, stylish, and technically perfect guitar lines.

So now we've got one down, and our big sign has its first two signatures for display in the sunroom.

And now, we're looking for number two. It may be in June, or a little earlier. We'll keep you posted. In the meantime, enjoy the photos.

Ciao for now,
BobCat.

Things are happening ...

2007-02-07T11:25:00.000-08:00

Get ready for some major content to be added here the week of February 12.

In the meantime ... check this out.

Hmmm. What could it all mean? :-)