The Pearl Company

Rae Billing with CRYBABY: CD Release! Saturday, April 14. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00. $20 / $15 students/seniors/wage-challenged. REUNITED AFTER 20 YEARS… In 1996 Toronto alt-country band Crybaby released their sole and seminal recording, Paintings. The band lasted just four years, but won much critical acclaim: one of the Top Three Country Albums of 1996 (withLyle Lovett and Blackie & The Rodeo Kings)!  ‘Nashville Scene’ writer, Michael McCall, characterized their music as “tangy country soul” and called Crybaby’s performance one of the “notable moments” of the ‘96 South By Southwest Music Festival.
Praise for lead singer and songwriter Rae Billing’s voice: “honest and pure, assured and desperate at the same time”, “shiver-inducing”; her lyrics and music: “full of wide open spaces and bittersweet emotions,” and mood: “late night, pan-Americana rootsy songs… handled with gutsy femininity.” After Crybaby, Rae recorded three albums under her own name all receiving excellent reviews: her 2001 “self titled” album, her 2008 recording, “Blue Black Night”, and 2013’s “Walls and Fences” with ‘The Unpayables’. Late in 2016, Crybaby came together to play two 20 year anniversary shows. The reunited band included Steve Koch (Ron Sexsmith) on guitar and Lucky Pete Lambert (Kensington Hillbillies) on drums and backups.  Three treasured Hamilton musicians, Andrew Aldridge (Sarah Slean) on guitar, Greg Brisco (Junkhouse) on keys and Scott Bell (Dinner Belles) on bass jumped in. The music sounded so good, they went back into the studio to do their version of the renowned Bobby Gentry single Ode to Billie Joe. and while the music was flowing, they couldn’t resist recording one of Rae’s songs… and that was the beginning of a new album. Crybaby (redux!) is stronger than ever.  www.crybabyband.ca  www.raebilling.com  Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBvPQZl-pGc

Carlos del Junco & The Blues Mongrels – “Hang On” CD Release! POSTPONED! To the fall. Carlos has a detached retina – he’s in B.C and is not allowed to fly home…. Saturday, April 7, Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00. Tickets: $25. Carlos del Junco is a harmonica virtuoso who has won numerous national and international awards for his unique playing style.  Simultaneously sophisticated and raw, his playing blurs the boundaries between blues and jazz (ergo, “The Blues Mongrels”). Caught between the blues and jazz world, Carlos and band deliver a seamless fusion of everything from swing to Latin, second line New Orleans grooves to swampy folk roots melodies, and even “world music”.
Their new CD Hang On is not officially available yet; however, it will be available for sale only thru Carlos during his western Canada March tour and he’ll for sure have it on hand April 7 at The Pearl Co!  Eventually he’ll put it onlline for streaming and digital download purchase. The new CD features Eric St. Laurent and Henry Heillig on guitar and bass respectively, some back- up vocals from Jimmy Bowskill, with Kevin Breit playing mandolin on mandolin and 12 sting resonator guitar on a couple songs. You can listen to some sound bytes of the new disc here: www.carlosdeljunco.com
“A model of focus and urgency…a true virtuoso…” Brad Wheeler – The Globe and Mail
http://www.carlosdeljunco.com   Tickets:  https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20662/
(more…)

Bob Wegner: Introduces his new CD, “Changing of the Guard”.…Sunday, February 11. Doors: 7:30. Show: 8:00 pm. $20.  Bob Wegner is a seasoned performer, songwriter, and composer. Career highlights include playing with Classic Albums Live, performing on Canadian Idol, and playing in several productions of the west end musical ‘We Will Rock You’ after auditioning for Queen’s Brian May. He also performs as a solo artist, with an extensive repertoire ranging from Indian classical music to Bach to flamenco, as well as many of his own compositions covering a broad range of genres. Now he has a new CD!   This will be an evening of great music and storytelling and a unique chance to catch this master at his best! http://www.bobwegner.ca      Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9DNor7r9cI
https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20396/

Gary Santucci’s SPANJAZZ: A World Beat Jazz Project: Friday, February 23. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00pm. $20 /$15 students/seniors/ un(der)waged.  A collection of musical compositions inspired by world music rhythms performed in a jazz context by the 6-piece world-beat jazz ensemble, Spanjazz. Featuring Jordan Abraham – keyboard, Jeff Plumbley – trumpet, Aidan Sibley – trombone, James Gannett – bass, Vincent Waters – drums and Gary Santucci – guitar. All musicians are highly respected performers in their own fields; the juxtaposition of their different styles and approaches creates the unique sound and experience that is Spanjazz!
https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20526/ 

Shari Vandermolen & SWINGLINE: Saturday, March 24. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00pm. $20 / $15 students/seniors/un(der)waged. SwingLine is a 10-piece jazz combo of talented and seasoned musicians who pack a powerhouse big-band sound.  Their featured vocalist, Shari Vandermolen, is an award-winning performer who has been performing in and around the city for over 15 years.
You can look forward to a swinging evening exploring songs from the Great American Songbook and other favourites.
SwingLine includes; Darren Blundell (alto), Lindsay Paul (tenor), Pat Lundy (bari), Don Templeton (trombone), Ray Chantler (trumpet), Urmas Soomet (bass), Barry Smallbone (guitar), Frank Cammisuli (piano), Vincent Waters (drums), and Shari Vandermolen (vocals)
“[Shari Vandermolen] takes a song and gives it emotional depth and edge.  She not only sings it magnificently she acts the heart and soul out of it…  When she tackles such hurting songs and raw pain surges from her throat, that pain finds you in the dark and makes you shiver with pleasure.”   –  The Hamilton Spectator
Don’t miss out on this one – make your plans now to join us March 24^th!  https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20656

David Woodhead’s Confabulation – CD Release: Friday, Feb 9. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00pm.  $20 /$15 students/ seniors/ un(der)waged.
You can hear the ideas bouncing back and forth on The Confabulation’s new album Tunnels and Visions.  Ringleader David Woodhead’s compositions range from rambunctious romps to contemplative minimalism, with stops at vintage song and contemporary parlour music on the way.  His playful Confabulation project combines a handful of expert players with a musical mandate fusing the inviting community feeling of folk, the wide musical palette of jazz, and the entrancing rhythms of world music, with the occasional foray into classical music structure.
Tunnels and Visions is a high-spirited, cinematic deep-dive into ’70s-style jazz composition and improvisation. Naturally, it features Woodhead’s trademark melodic electric bass playing, with his expressive touch on the fretless, and a long list of notable instrumentalists. Band members include keyboardist Doug Wilde (Manteca), reeds player Colleen Allen (Molly Johnson, Holly Cole), guitarist Bob Cohen (Jesse Winchester) and drummer Rich Greenspoon (Betty and the Bobs, Stewed Tomatoes). Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOafAqIvvmk
See more links at: http://www.davidwoodhead.com/confabulation.html
Tickets: https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20247/

ZULA Presents: Scandinavian Jazz Powerhouse Atomic: Tuesday, February 13. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00. Tickets $15 reg./$10 students & seniors @ http://paypal.me/ZulaTix  Norwegian and Swedish jazz quintet ATOMIC is made up of some of the most accomplished and exciting 2nd and 3rd generation Scandinavian/European free jazz artists, inspired by American and European jazz/free/contemporary music and exploring adventurous works written by its members. Explosive, retrospective, joyous, contemplative, fiery, intense performances leave audiences in awe.  Fredrik Ljungkvist – reeds; Magnus Broo – trumpet; Håvard Wiik – piano; Ingebrigt Håker Flaten – double bass; Hans Hulbœkmo – drums.)
ZULA Presents: world-renowned visiting artists; revered local musicians; newer traditions in jazz; improvised music; experimental sounds; the avant-garde here in Hamilton  This event is presented as part of Hamilton Winterfest with kind support from the City of Hamilton.
Details at: https://zulapresents.org/2017-2018-something-else-series/feb-13-2018-atomic-at-pearl-co/

Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy: Saturday, March 31, 2018. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show: 8 p.m.,  Admission: $30 Nortesur Artistic Productions & The Pearl Company present SEEDS OF HOPE Fundraiser concert in benefit of  the Technical Institute John Paul II of  Nicaragua.   Luis Enrique Mejía Godoy is one of Latin America’s great troubadours. His music and song have deep roots in the Indigenous and Afro-Caribbean traditions of Nicaragua. His art gives voice to the struggles for human rights, equity, and justice.
The Technical Institute John Paul II of Nicaragua www.itejp.org  was founded in 1996. The Institute provides a pathway to a future of economic and social participation through opportunities for young people from low income families to learn skilled trades.
Special guest performance: Mischa Aravena
Tickets available at the door; by phone; or online: https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20578/ 

The Koren Family Christmas! Monday, December 18: At 7:00pm: $10 with a Food or Cash Donation. The Koren Family with The Pearl Arts Centre will host an evening of music and much, much, more. Here’s last year’s perfect quote from Benjamin Washington …”best deal of the year…the annual ‘Koren Family Christmas’…a full charity donation showcase in aid of HAMILTON FOOD SHARE…main stage at The Pearl… the musical line-up is always awesome… ten bucks and a food donation…be there!”  The Musical lineup for 2017: Tomi Swick, Union and Kay, Doug Feaver and Ruth Sutherland, Fred Magie, Christopher Clause, Matty Simpson, Justin Fischer, and The Koren Family!!!  Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_4F90lmGQY

FOR GEORGE 2018: Saturday, February 24. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00pm. Door Cover: Pay As You Can. $20 suggested. Hosted by Christopher Clause and featuring the best in Hamilton artists, FOR GEORGE 2018 is a musical celebration of the life and music of George Harrison, as well as the sharing of original music inspired by George.

All proceeds raised from the show will go towards GRACENOTES and Debbie Clause Recording Fund, which will help raise funds for local independent music projects in Hamilton.

Artists that will be performing (as of Friday January 12…) are as follows (lineup subject to change): The Barr Band, Bob Bryden, Jennifer Budd, Christopher Clause, Chrys and Momo, Miles From Nowhere (Miles Evans), Chris Jamieson, Jude Johnson, Dave Pomfret, Michael Scott, Paul Slodovnick, Peter Taplay.

Women’s Words: 2 One Act Plays: January 18 – 20 / 24 – 27. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00. $25 / $20.  The premiere of a new play by Allison Chisholm, A Certain Slant of Light, directed by Annalee Flint with Tyler Brent and Maxie Liberman. And, an award-winning play written and performed by Natalia Bushnik, Maybelle’s Guide to Maintaining Perfection. www.nataliabushnik.com

Another Jazzy New Year @ The Pearl! Sunday, December 31, 8:00 ‘til ?  $65 per person. We’ve found a drummer!  We are on for our usual fabulous entertainment, great buffet, and cash bar. The entertainment will be a brilliant collection of super-gifted jazz musicians. As always, we promise fun people, great conversations, musical magic, and lots of dancing before, between, and after the jazz sets!

To welcome in the New Year: Chef Gary Santucci, with major assistance from his son and also chef, Avery Santucci, will create a pan-global buffet with new dishes arriving throughout the night. There will be two musical sets from the collection of jazz artists assembled for the evening.

The 6-piece world-beat jazz ensemble, Spanjazz: Inspired by world music rhythms in a jazz context and featuring Jordan Abraham – keyboard, Jeff Plumbley – trumpet, Aidan Sibley – trombone, James Gannett – bass, Vincent Waters – drums and Gary Santucci – guitar. All musicians are highly respected performers in their own fields; the juxtaposition of their different styles and approaches creates the unique sound and experience that is Spanjazz.

Dancing between sets, lots of food and the cash bar round out the evening.

We need you to RSVP: Buy tickets online, via email, or phone.  We usually sell out so let us know as soon as you do! Online Tickets: https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/20079/   https://bruha.com/event/2640

I <3 Welcome Inn: Thursday Feb 22. Doors: 6:30pm. Show: 7:00pm $20 per ticket Tickets are available through the Welcome Inn Centre or at the door. Welcome Inn Community Centre is holding it’s annual fundraising event/concert for their children’s programs.

PIE AUCTION – MUSIC – PRIZES – CASH BAR – FOOD – WIN A TREASURE CHEST $1500 value
Just some of the wonderful prizes available!
Legal services to prepare a will
West Jet travel certificate
Home decor consultation with Branch
Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra gift certificate
Albert Snow Hair Design services and product
Bryan Prince gift certificate
Hamilton Fire Department gift
Denninger’s gift basket
Joseph’s Coiffures salon services
Burnt Tongue dining certificate
Pita Pit gift card
Harbour Diner gift card
Wine baskets & MORE!

BORDERLINE ME: Robin Zee’s One-Woman Show: Saturday, December 9. Doors: 7:00pm. Show: 800. Tickets: $20 advance; $25 at door. This important fundraising, learning, and artistic event is in support of charitable organizations that are anti-human trafficking. Robin Zee performs her one-woman show, BorderLine Me, outlining her personal journey of survival that includes her experience as a person who was trafficked. There will be a Q & A session afterwards and a silent auction with many wonderful items. 100% of the proceeds from this evening will go to non-profit anti-human trafficking charities.
Robin’s hope is that her efforts will assist in raising money for non-profit charities that support victims of human trafficking and in educating our community through experience and art. www.robinzee.com 

(more…)

Dominic Mancuso Group: Intimate and Up Close! SOLD OUT. Saturday, February 3. Doors: 7:30pm. Show: 8:00pm. Tickets: $30. Dominic Mancuso is a Juno and Canadian Folk Music Award-winning singer-songwriter, and producer, born in Canada with a Sicilian soul. This passionate collaborator displays a wondrous spirit that transcends cultures and borders defining a world culture where people are the territory. The Dominic Mancuso Group: Where Passion, Music and Theatre Collide with Modern Maestros!  After 25 years committed to a vision influenced by his culturally diverse world, Dominic sees himself sitting at the table with the 21st century and the global village. His resume takes in several CDs, as well as several written scores for TV, films and theatre performances, numerous artistic collaborations and a great number of live shows in Canada and abroad. His latest CD (and Juno winner), Urban Gypsy, is a recording that clearly communicates the group’s wandering spirit, musical prowess and pluriculturalism, while nurturing the contemporary idea of a global culture.  “His group is a perfect example of the world-savvy musical product Canada is producing.”  ~Dr. Elena Lamberti, U of Bologna.  http://www.dominicmancuso.com/  Listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhompMe2MNQ