Blues for Robbie

At long last "Blues for Robbie" is finished. This is a heart felt musical tribute to my dear friend and brilliant musician Robbie King. He was an inspiration to me and a generation of players in Vancouver. I am honored to have Ann Mortifee's incredible voice as part of this suite of songs and instrumental pieces. Robbie was Ann's musical director for many years and so it seems fitting that she is a part of this musical journey. Our mutual friends David Lanz on piano and Wayne Kozak on saxophones also play here, along with a stellar lineup of musicians from Ontario. This music is really about friendship and how one person can make a difference in our lives. I don't shy away from the fact that we lost Robbie to early, and the feeling of loss and what might have been. I think Robbie would enjoy the eclectic mix of styles here, as we both agreed that labels don't suit music. So I have everything from flamenco guitar, beautifully played by Kevin Laliberte , to Alyssa Wright's singing cello. Dalannah Gail Bowen adds her sultry blues voice to "Life Groove" and Mark Lalama, plays a fiery Hammond B 3 . Long time musical partner and percussion master Penner Mackay adds wonderful grooves throughout. The CD will be available from the website on December 8th.

There be Faeries and Dragons and O R Melling

This is a little late but we had a gas of an evening with our
dear pal O R Melling at St Mike's College, U of T, on Thursday November 23rd. This event was organised by Deb Scorsone of the Celtic Society. My daughters Rebecca and Miriam accompanied me on a suite of tunes I have composed inspired by Orla's "Chronicle Of Faerie", comprising of "The Hunter's Moon / The Summer King / The Light Bearer's Daughter". All of these pieces are being recorded for my next C D project called "A Telling". Orla and I talked about our work and answered questions, the friendly audience was certainly a great inspiration for a good gab by both of us. I sold copies of "Jousting with Jesters" and "Bright Weaving" CD's, so a very satisfying event, and great to make new connections. Thanks to Orla for inviting me to be a part of this special evening.