Barber Shop Podcast

Ambition without intent is a wasted dream, talent without drive is a lost opportunity. Capturing the echoes and ghosts of musicality and message in a tight, evocative yet unique form, The Monarch Project are at once familiar, message driven and sharp with a reserved swagger that belies a true blue pearl in the making. You saw them back in episode #66, green and eager, acoustically succinct with a steady verve and a band of brothers right out of Central Casting. Soon bonds were formed and the boys came to BOXO Studio in the spring of 2014 to record two songs "How Far Can You Go" and the title track, "Troubled Mind". Released on vinyl as per their custom, the 7" record gets a world debut tonight, along with six, yes six, live numbers, full on. Promoting their record release party on Feb.7, the boys strap on and step up big time to show you why they're someone to keep your eye and ears on. Check out this very special episode of Barber Shop Podcast as we showcase another treasure that's right at your fingertips.

It's not often we get the combination of talent and beauty of a Jessica Blake around here, and when the storied chanteuse arrived with her friend and band mate Genny DeMerchant to perform a few of her songs we were pretty happy about that indeed. Picking up the singing and dancing bug early on, the support of her parents helped to pave the way for Jessica to begin the long, slippery road of singer songwriter. Practicing and performing, learning her instrument and fine tuning the stunning vocals gave rise to the package for which she is known for today. Years of standing firm and staying true to her faith and passions, the small venues and piqued interests turned to center stage and rave reviews by the time she was ready to drop her CD "So Close", a rather convoluted 9 years in the making. Full of stellar musicianship and lyrical play, the entire spectrum of her ascension to the here and now is on display on this great record, but it is that voice, that golden voice that will make you stop what you're doing.

Pearly Jenkins is been around for a long time, and he's learned his lessons well. Long ago before the age of the computer, he was hacking his way through the taverns and smoky venues of the storied city. From the rockabilly past, to the country roots that he embodies today, probably Jenkins is the real deal. After having carried so much weight for so long, he knows what he has to do when he has to do it and thank goodness for that. Teaming up with the legendary producer Glen Marshall, he is put together a collection of songs that hark to the dark evocative country of the Bakersfield sound, parchment vignettes of love and loss, and triumph over tragedy. Fires stoked in the rockabilly and rhinestone clubs stayed true to the forlorn and forgotten songs that soak the fabric of the the small Lake Erie towns that shine like the lingering coals in the fading light. Never gone, not forgotten, the legacy of this man stands today in the testimony of music and memories that ring ever true today.

We've had some good luck fishing the flats south of the Hammer, and the little hotbed of Caledonia has seen international attention from the likes of King sized exports to King Biscuit Boy. London born Brandon P. General made the most of his hick town reality and begun crafting personal interpretations of the classic vinyl and wood-to-steel authenticity of his earliest influences. Running hard and true, the kid threw together a few outfits and appearances in some cracker bands until settling neatly down into the pilots seat of "My Flying Machine", the entity that embodies the vision of, and delivered the goods of Brandon's newest EP "Happiness Is A Learned Behaviour" that is offered free and shared tonight. It's been a long road but the perfect time for General to take the reigns and do his own thing. Has two new records coming out this year "Wood & Steel" and "Aww Shucks", sure to be winners. Either way it's money - hard cash money, every week at Barber Shop Podcast

Stoney Creek in the 80's had a lot of musical credibility with the great young acts that were making waves in and around that Hamilton burb, growing roots that support some heavy branches even today. Hooking up with friend Gene Champagne, Dave Pomfret founded the Monday Nuns as a hybrid of the power pop punk and hard rock camps they each subscribed to respectively. Adding Erkki Raid on bass and guitar of Mike Trebilcock, the boys tore it up good, the core becoming The Kiljoys after Dave's departure in the 90's Almost twenty years pass, and whole still writing and playing at home, Dave Pomfret was very much absent from the stage and studio, the potential slowly winding the coil of expression. 2009 saw the time, effort and resources necessary to record and release No Rush, Dave's first full length CD of original music, no shortage of talent or attention evident in the textures of a truly fine work. Coming in on the coldest of nights, Dave brings acoustic and electric love as well as a brand new song to the stud

God knows we love a party here at Barber Shop Podcast, that's why he's kinda mad at us. 2014 was a great year here at BOXO Studio and our hearts soar at the prospect of kicking it's ass out the door with the naughty knights of narcissistic nomenclature, Lo-fi. When it came time to choose the band that kinda says it all - there was no other choice. Demonstrating sublime chops and straight-razor delivery, these guys leave no doubt that they take not being serious verrry seriously. In the time Todd, Lips, Vinnie and Ken (and the drummer who didn't show for either show - and therefore is dead to us and will not be named) have had Lo-fi churning out music, their countless shows and three CD's have marked them as a huge throbbing force to be reckoned with. Not much more to say, it's all here in this special New Year's Eve edition of Barber Shop Podcast.

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, people were singing, even the mouse. History, tradition and reverence reign this time of year, and who better to bring the message of peace, love and good will better than someone who has been square in the centre of it all in the 50 years since he first performed for an audience. In the period since, Bob Bryden has seen the rise and fall of many, but through it all, has remained resolute and relevant in this unforgiving and unpredictable business. Nobody would have guessed all those years ago that Bob would be front and centre in Hamilton music history, but after accepting the position of manager for Star Records in town, he was hands on and very aware of just what kind of magic is born from these gritty streets. Witness to the youth revolution of the 60's, Bob Bryden embodies the storyteller and troubadour that served as a generation's conscious, crafting songs with the intent and message that hungry ears and open minds crave. Bringing his guitar,

Duane Rutter is one of our favorite people here at BOXO Studio, his absolute inability to be phony had is smitten from the first note. Born and raised on the North Shore of Lake Erie, the road had been anything but even since he was the kid your mom warned you about. Slugging it out in saloons and writing his hits and missives led to a deal with Busted Flat Records and a serious buzz in the resurgent Americana music landscape. Sold out shows and feature performances brought 2014 to the brink of greatness, 2015 will surely kick the door wide open for Duane Rutter. Mid December mirth and melodies ring throughout this prime episode as Duane is joined by friends and stand outs Michael Hickey (bass), Andrew Aldridge (guitar) JB Reed (vox), Steve Wood (pedal steel) and Nick Burson (drums), to bring glorious life to a few songs from his upcoming album "Crazy Things". You just can't beat these kind of people and this golden performance, a coming together of kindred spirits on a rather magical night at Barber Shop Pod

On a chilly December night in The Hammer, the warmth and comfort afforded by our guests made for a most beautiful visit. Hailing from the south-lands of the Niagara peninsula, Cindy Dell grew up surrounded by music and the structure it provides when building something. As the child of two music teachers, there was never a lack of either instrument or instruction and the many hours of practice soon turned a talented ear into a well versed and capable musician. Transitioning to the guitar from violin in her teens, Cindy Dell set out on her personal journey that covered many styles and miles over the years. Small, intimate venues that welcomed intimate stories of revelation and redemption gave way to bold swipes of early 80's colour, seeing the chanteuse transform into a member of a major label act, sharp angles and patterns reflecting her life during these heady days. Major league labels, producers and tours served to educate and enlighten, the lessons not lost or wasted on her as she transformed over subsequ

Growing up punk in The Hammer usually means a path to Gene Vincent and Robert Gordon via Teenage Head and The Forgotten Rebels. Brothers Nicoloff were no different, both David and Craig sworn to a love of rockabilly and the great hip-twisting music from that era of 1953-1959. Forming a number of groups, it was the heady days of the late 80's and early 90's that have birth to their first bona fide outfit, The Shock Rockets. It was during this time that fellow Elvis disciple Billy Thornberry and The Crawl Daddy's caught Dave's eye and a mutual respect was formed. Fast forward to 2010 and the fires rekindled a desire to form an authentic slice of Americana for today's music fans. Placing the prerequisite Kijiji ad for a singer and picker who MUST like rockabilly, who answered but Thornberry himself, also ready for another kick at the can, the draw of the stage and rhythm too strong to ignore. Stopping by on the 106th consecutive Wednesday, the boys and drummer Linda (Lulu) Demoo braved a technical train wreck to

Growing up can be tough, but the results and the rewards of sticking to the program are always self evident. The love that we make here at Barber Shop Podcast is always equal to the love we take every week, and for two years, our love of the wonderful music and musicians in and around Hamilton has been broadcast worldwide in high definition and high fidelity. Shaky and uncertain legs became strong and steady as the shows piled up, the technical aspects of the production maturing step by step with the human element, creating what is now regarded as the industry standard for this format, garnering notice and followers along the way. To celebrate, we threw the doors open and stocked the fridge with cold ones on a chilly November night, adding snacks to bait the trap. It wasn’t long before we had a house full of talent, and the joint was rocking into the wee hours. This 2 part episode has some great performances, some good synergy and a few hiccups….like any decent party would. Past guests got reacquainted, some

Growing up can be tough, but the results and the rewards of sticking to the program are always self evident. The love that we make here at Barber Shop Podcast is always equal to the love we take every week, and for two years, our love of the wonderful music and musicians in and around Hamilton has been broadcast worldwide in high definition and high fidelity. Shaky and uncertain legs became strong and steady as the shows piled up, the technical aspects of the production maturing step by step with the human element, creating what is now regarded as the industry standard for this format, garnering notice and followers along the way. To celebrate, we threw the doors open and stocked the fridge with cold ones on a chilly November night, adding snacks to bait the trap. It wasn't long before we had a house full of talent, and the joint was rocking into the wee hours. This 2 part episode has some great performances, some good synergy and a few hiccups....like any decent party would. Past guests got reacquainted, som

Sometimes the good lord takes our best souls and Brian Griffith was one of our brightest lights. Taken far too young at age 60, Brian was a member of the storied Washington family, his musical lineage and fertile environment served to spark the flame of Hamilton's greatest guitarist and most beloved son. As talented and versatile as Brian Griffith was with an instrument, his manner and authenticity were the traits for which he shall be remembered by. Master of every style, King among men, Brian Griffith will be deeply missed by all those who knew him - and by many who will never get to hear him play. We give pause and play a few things for our friends that feature Brian's chops, but it's his smile that you will never forget. We sure won't.

An authentic slice of real down home cooking courtesy Boogie Infection is the order of the day around here. From teens who got both punk music and each other, the trio of Dam, Slop Buckett and Snow Heel Slim now make a staccato ms mouldier of the Mississippi Delta variety, courtesy of a pilgrimage to the birth place of all modern music. Simple, bold, honest and strong, the groove is pure energy and the message timeless in today's plastic-wrapped world. Moving and shaking on a November night, we have a laugh or two and a whole mess of songs from the Boogie Infection, raise a glass and thank god for little miracles.

Sometimes a little birdie says there's someone good on the scene we should feature. In this case, 4 different birdies I've flocked with for years told me I needed to see this 28 year old Guelph transplant Jesse Eliott at one of Hamilton's talent soaked open mic's. From the back of the room I believed him, and his commitment met his talent with a force rarely seen, pure commitment, original and excellent. The old barber didn't get the lead chair by sitting on his laurels, and beating the bush for the next great thing is part of what we do here. This - is why we do it. Jesse Eliott with John LaBassiste, Timothy Kulakowski and the savory Nick Burson flesh out the frenetic beauty of the next great thing out of Hamilton. Fresh, real - you gotta hear it to believe it. Barber Shop Podcast

Rarely will you find a diverse unit of seven musicians gelling into not only a singular unit, but an original, traditional gift of stunning beauty and vivid images. Born but a few short years ago, the septet of Tara Lightfoot, Brad Germain, Scott Bell, Brandon Bliss, Greg Briscoe, Jonathan Ely Cass and Melanie Pothier somehow merged their individual chops into something that is rather remarkable in the present music environment. Call it Americana, roots, traditional, folk or country, what you get is something passionate, evocative and soul-grabbing from moment one. Music lovers of any age can love what the band delivers and once bitten, they get under your skin and stay. Fresh of their CD release party for their sophomore release The River and the Willow, five of the dinner Belles stopped by on a chilly late October night to tell their tales and share a drink and a laugh. Another great show, just the way you like it - from Barber Shop Podcast

What better way to celebrate 100 episodes of great music than to crush it with Hamilton metal icons VARGA. After 23 years together, the sheer intensity, passion and musicality of Joe Varga, Dan Fila, Sean Williamson and Adam Alex makes one truly understand master level attainment. Showcasing tunes from their double release ENTER THE METAL and RETURN OF THE METAL and midway through their Ontario Invasion 2014 tour, the boys treat the neighbors and the world to some rare Maiden and Sabbath, and the awesome heavy metal thunder of VARGA - on this very special episode of Barber Shop Podcast.

Sometimes the seed of an idea grows into a mighty oak - other times it just gets wedged in your gums causing residual pain and regret. Almost two years ago Barber Shop Podcast launched as a long-form interview/live performance show and in that time we have been witness to a lot of talent and beauty. Not this episode. One week shy of our epic 100th episode, we host four of our favorite beer loving guests to engage in the ancient rite of consuming 100 shots of beer in 100 minutes - The Century Club. It takes a certain type of individual to allow themselves to go from sober to messy in such a short time, and an even more "special" individual to allow it to be documented and displayed for all to see. No one said it was going to be easy, and for sure this one is a bit rough in spots. Seven guys, 70 beers, 100 minutes.... What can go wrong? Never boring, always dangerous, celebrate #99 with us and join us for something a little different.

Laura Cole is everywhere these days, what with the release of her debut album Dirty Cheat at the end of August and the buzz that her electrifying performances provide. Only 25, Cole has the chops and sensibilities of someone steeped in the smokey jazz clubs of yesteryear while bringing her own style to the party. Father Ron noted her precocious talent early on, but if was a fireside rendition of a Sheryl Crow song that got him thinking about just how to polish this diamond in the rough. Building a band that could carry the freight meant that in addition to Ron Cole's keys, the bass of Chris Chiarcos, Joe Gravina and the guitar of Steve Bigas were the perfect fit for this rising star. Recording her record at Porcelain Records with no less than Dan Lanois producing, you know the result would be nothing less than stellar. Brave, beautiful and bursting with promise, everything Laura Cole touches is turning to pure gold, a shiny and pure reflection of the girl herself. Big grins, big hearts and a real treat for y