Wednesday, February 29, The Exes, 8pm, $5: This week, join us on Wednesday (actually, every Wednesday…) for live Hot Country and East Coast covers with our very own fun loving Kim James and her band: The Exes. Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company is the sponsor for this ‘college night’ as we’ve been calling it; but perhaps, based on the all ages appeal we’ve seen so far, ‘pub night’ would be a more appropriate title: What does that mean? Well, a pitcher of Beau’s Lug Tread Beer comes with a free order of nachos (this month, limit one free nacho per table of four) and there are some door prizes (in case you’ve seen a few of those sweet new Beau’s toques around…) The music is swinging and fun, the atmosphere is casual (a good stop for fans of the Rubber Boots Sundays…) and dancing is encouraged!
Thursday, March 1, Lynn Miles, 9pm, $20: The one and only Lynn Miles is back this Thursday, move quick, this show is ALMOST sold out--you don't want to miss it! Here's the story from her website...'There is something to be said for experience, for taking the time to grow into your own skin. All sturdy things need time to root firmly into the ground to find their strength. Lynn Miles is one of Canada's most accomplished singer/songwriters. With seven albums to her credit, the winner of multiple Canadian Folk Music Awards, and a 2003 Juno Award for Roots & Traditional Solo Album of the Year, she has certainly found her strength over time.'
Friday, March 2, The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, March 3, Jim Bryson, 9pm, $20: Yes, THAT Jim Bryson. And, Yes, the same week as Lynn Miles. Yeah, things are pretty good here at the Branch, if you like, you know, things that are good. For those that don't know who this is (Both of you...) Here's a quick Bio: 'Jim Bryson is a Canadian singer-songwriter. Briefly a founding member of the band Punchbuggy, he moved to a musical life under his own name with the release of his debut album, The Occasionals, in 2000. A member of country singer Kathleen Edwards's touring band, Bryson has also toured and recorded with many other artists, including Howe Gelb, Lynn Miles, Sarah Harmer, The Weakerthans, and The Tragically Hip. Bryson has toured Canada and the United Kingdom extensively. He has played the South by Southwest festival and his music has been in rotation on CBC Radio 3.'
Here's a little taste:
Sunday, March 4, Open Stage, 3-6pm; Rubber Boots Buffet 2-8.
authentic texas specialties, amazing live music, incredible selection of local, microbrewed draft beers and locally sourced and organic foods...
Monday, February 27, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
This Week:
Tuesday, February 21; Pat Moore and Maple Hill, 8pm, free: Pat Moore is a pal and a heckuva singer-songwriter, but before she stood out front with that guitar, she was plucking the upright bass with this crew: Maple Hill, playing bluegrass, traditional and old time. On Tuesday the 21st we’re hoping for a gang to come out so we can make this a regular event and, if it goes well, a new Branch tradition. Pat has asked me to let you know that bluegrass pickers are welcome to come and join in and hopes that this will become a fun evening for folks who want to share in a good old fashioned jam session... We at the Branch are also hoping you’ll come out for another reason… since we were working this past Saturday and weren't be able to make it out to the Benefit for Terry Render; Terry is a local bluegrass legend, owner of Wood and Wire; he was recently stricken with a nerve disorder called Guillain-Barre syndrome, and although he is expected to make a full recovery, in the meantime, he is unable to support himself by his usual methods of teaching students and doing instrument repairs. We would like to take this event as an opportunity to pitch in: one half of all our food sales for the evening will be donated to Terry’s cause, helping him out during this rough patch. Hang in there, Terry!
Wednesday, February 22, The Exes, 8pm, $5: This week, join us on Wednesday (actually, every Wednesday…) for live Hot Country and East Coast covers with our very own fun loving Kim James and her band: The Exes. Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company is the sponsor for this ‘college night’ as we’ve been calling it; but perhaps, based on the all ages appeal we’ve seen so far, ‘pub night’ would be a more appropriate title: What does that mean? Well, a pitcher of Beau’s Lug Tread Beer comes with a free order of nachos (this month, limit one free nacho per table of four) and there are some door prizes (in case you’ve seen a few of those sweet new Beau’s toques around…) The music is swinging and fun, the atmosphere is casual (a good stop for fans of the Rubber Boots Sundays…) and dancing is encouraged!
Thursday, February 23; Songwriter Circle, hosted by Bruce Enloe and featuring John Carroll and Andy McGaw; 7pm, free: No, this is not ‘…a bunch of people sittin’ around writing songs…’ as one person suggested, although I might enjoy that; I’d understand if it didn’t sound like an entertaining way to spend an evening out: What it actually is is a chance to hear songs written by the folks involved, in a format that allows you to take in a broad selection of each songwriter’s style and songs, to hear some stories and maybe even to enjoy a little impromptu collaboration if the mood fits. Andy McGaw is a legend; he is a powerful folk songwriter whose clear delivery, fearless approach to tough topics and wit puts him in a small, elite group that includes some very familiar names, you know, names like Bob Dylan and John Prine. And no, I don’t consider that hyperbole. John Carroll is another local legend who is at the top of his game, his most recent album ‘Everybody Smokes in Hell’ is easily his best work and has brought him a great deal of well-deserved attention in recent days. I’m your host, and although I’ll be sitting between two masters of the form, I’ll be at least trying to keep up with tunes out of my broad (if not well known) catalogue and pitching in on harmonies where I can. I can’t promise perfection, but with John, Andy and me on stage together, I can promise fun—excellent quality and a good time, and really, isn’t that more than enough?
Friday(s), February 10 (17 &24); The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 25; George Harrison Birthday Tribute: All things must pass? Says who? Oh, yeah, THAT guy! George Harrison; Beatle, filmmaker, race car sponsor, Wilbury… It is time again to start planning for this year’s celebration of all things George, so get ready to Wah-Wah, Oh my Lord, Here Comes the Sun, Something and Old Brown Shoe your way through another awesome night of tunes, stories, and generally swell times...Basically, let’s get 'not so quiet' in honour of 'the Quiet One...' Performers who have signed up to participate so far include myself, Greg Kelly, David Shanahan, Katherine Amanda Giles and members of the Heroic Mad Peasants; Ben and Heather Mullin may make it out (if Ginny allows), as will Brian Simms, Lisa Poushinsky and David Bosschaart. More names could appear...there is a bit of a house band in place, and either way, we’ll spend an evening celebrating the legacy of a Beatle...how bad could that be? Answer: not very; it could, in fact, be really …Something.
Sunday, February 26; Open Stage, 3-6pm; Rubber Boots Buffet, 2-8.
Wednesday, February 22, The Exes, 8pm, $5: This week, join us on Wednesday (actually, every Wednesday…) for live Hot Country and East Coast covers with our very own fun loving Kim James and her band: The Exes. Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company is the sponsor for this ‘college night’ as we’ve been calling it; but perhaps, based on the all ages appeal we’ve seen so far, ‘pub night’ would be a more appropriate title: What does that mean? Well, a pitcher of Beau’s Lug Tread Beer comes with a free order of nachos (this month, limit one free nacho per table of four) and there are some door prizes (in case you’ve seen a few of those sweet new Beau’s toques around…) The music is swinging and fun, the atmosphere is casual (a good stop for fans of the Rubber Boots Sundays…) and dancing is encouraged!
Thursday, February 23; Songwriter Circle, hosted by Bruce Enloe and featuring John Carroll and Andy McGaw; 7pm, free: No, this is not ‘…a bunch of people sittin’ around writing songs…’ as one person suggested, although I might enjoy that; I’d understand if it didn’t sound like an entertaining way to spend an evening out: What it actually is is a chance to hear songs written by the folks involved, in a format that allows you to take in a broad selection of each songwriter’s style and songs, to hear some stories and maybe even to enjoy a little impromptu collaboration if the mood fits. Andy McGaw is a legend; he is a powerful folk songwriter whose clear delivery, fearless approach to tough topics and wit puts him in a small, elite group that includes some very familiar names, you know, names like Bob Dylan and John Prine. And no, I don’t consider that hyperbole. John Carroll is another local legend who is at the top of his game, his most recent album ‘Everybody Smokes in Hell’ is easily his best work and has brought him a great deal of well-deserved attention in recent days. I’m your host, and although I’ll be sitting between two masters of the form, I’ll be at least trying to keep up with tunes out of my broad (if not well known) catalogue and pitching in on harmonies where I can. I can’t promise perfection, but with John, Andy and me on stage together, I can promise fun—excellent quality and a good time, and really, isn’t that more than enough?
Friday(s), February 10 (17 &24); The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 25; George Harrison Birthday Tribute: All things must pass? Says who? Oh, yeah, THAT guy! George Harrison; Beatle, filmmaker, race car sponsor, Wilbury… It is time again to start planning for this year’s celebration of all things George, so get ready to Wah-Wah, Oh my Lord, Here Comes the Sun, Something and Old Brown Shoe your way through another awesome night of tunes, stories, and generally swell times...Basically, let’s get 'not so quiet' in honour of 'the Quiet One...' Performers who have signed up to participate so far include myself, Greg Kelly, David Shanahan, Katherine Amanda Giles and members of the Heroic Mad Peasants; Ben and Heather Mullin may make it out (if Ginny allows), as will Brian Simms, Lisa Poushinsky and David Bosschaart. More names could appear...there is a bit of a house band in place, and either way, we’ll spend an evening celebrating the legacy of a Beatle...how bad could that be? Answer: not very; it could, in fact, be really …Something.
Sunday, February 26; Open Stage, 3-6pm; Rubber Boots Buffet, 2-8.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
This Week:
Thursday, February 16; Josef Mieto and Katherine Amanda Giles, 8pm, $5: Josef is a Cohen-esque singer-songwriter and performer who moved this way from Montreal last year; we’ve been pleased to host him at a few open stages and at some of our birthday tribute shows where he has always given stand out performances. Katherine Amanda Giles grew up and is still growing up here in town, she sings original songs that are well advanced for her tender years with a voice that is at once haunting and beautiful—as a duettist, she has stunned Branch audiences alongside her pal, Christo Graham; as a solo performer she has brought her spunky style to birthday tribute showcases, open stages and, recently, as the opening act for Branch favourite David Martel.
Friday, February 17; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 18; Ashley Newall, featuring L. Poushinsky, 9pm, $6: Remember that guy at the Neil Young Birthday Tribute that shocked everyone with his pitch perfect ‘Needle and The Damage Done’? Yeah, that was this guy. Here, check out this video:
L. Poushinsky is a Branch favourite and Kemptville local who has made several show stopping appearances at our birthday tribute events and is well known for a few she has hosted herself (as well as for her own very cool solo work, of course...) in 'The City' before she moved out this way. She is an arresting singer with a unique style that blends jazz, folk and almost an eighties 'new wave' rock sort of style. So there you have it, OK? Enough said! See you next Saturday…
Sunday, February 19; Open Stage, 3-6pm, Rubber Boots Buffet 2-8pm.
Friday, February 17; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 18; Ashley Newall, featuring L. Poushinsky, 9pm, $6: Remember that guy at the Neil Young Birthday Tribute that shocked everyone with his pitch perfect ‘Needle and The Damage Done’? Yeah, that was this guy. Here, check out this video:
L. Poushinsky is a Branch favourite and Kemptville local who has made several show stopping appearances at our birthday tribute events and is well known for a few she has hosted herself (as well as for her own very cool solo work, of course...) in 'The City' before she moved out this way. She is an arresting singer with a unique style that blends jazz, folk and almost an eighties 'new wave' rock sort of style. So there you have it, OK? Enough said! See you next Saturday…
Sunday, February 19; Open Stage, 3-6pm, Rubber Boots Buffet 2-8pm.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Valentines Menu
Valentine’s Day Menu:
As always, our Valentine’s Day menu is about sharing, finger foods, and foods that are considered to have natural aphrodisiac qualities, ‘…say what?!’ Translation: ‘Boom-chicka-wow…’ Oh yeah, you know what I mean…
First Base:
Barcelona Nights: a platter of mixed finger foods for sharing; pickled quail eggs, smoked trout, goats cheese with chilies, prosciutto stuffed dates, veggies, dips…and more!
Second Base:
choice of:
Lobster Bisque…with big chunks of lobster, crème fraiche and ice-wine
or
Mushroom pizzette: mixed grilled mushrooms, grilled flat bread, goat cheese, truffle oil and an arugula salad
Third Base:
choice of:
Chocolate Tenderloin; 6oz filet of premium beef, compound chocolate-herb ‘love’ butter, Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables
or
Ménage á trois of Chicken: (…aka, chicken prepared three ways…) Lyon’s Family Farm chicken served as a thigh roulade stuffed with sheep’s milk cheese, wild grape and crab-apple; a risotto with pan seared chicken tenders; and with house-smoked barbecue drum, drumlet and wing
or
Rainbow Trout Love Letter: locally farmed trout steamed ‘en papillote’ with lobster butter, pasta, white wine, shaved vegetables and fresh herbs
Home-run:
Chocolate Fondue for two: includes fruit, cake, cookies and lots of molten, delicious, finger licking chocolate…mmmm…I wonder where this is going?
So there you have it; dinner for two is just $69…we’ll see you there…
As always, our Valentine’s Day menu is about sharing, finger foods, and foods that are considered to have natural aphrodisiac qualities, ‘…say what?!’ Translation: ‘Boom-chicka-wow…’ Oh yeah, you know what I mean…
First Base:
Barcelona Nights: a platter of mixed finger foods for sharing; pickled quail eggs, smoked trout, goats cheese with chilies, prosciutto stuffed dates, veggies, dips…and more!
Second Base:
choice of:
Lobster Bisque…with big chunks of lobster, crème fraiche and ice-wine
or
Mushroom pizzette: mixed grilled mushrooms, grilled flat bread, goat cheese, truffle oil and an arugula salad
Third Base:
choice of:
Chocolate Tenderloin; 6oz filet of premium beef, compound chocolate-herb ‘love’ butter, Yorkshire pudding and seasonal vegetables
or
Ménage á trois of Chicken: (…aka, chicken prepared three ways…) Lyon’s Family Farm chicken served as a thigh roulade stuffed with sheep’s milk cheese, wild grape and crab-apple; a risotto with pan seared chicken tenders; and with house-smoked barbecue drum, drumlet and wing
or
Rainbow Trout Love Letter: locally farmed trout steamed ‘en papillote’ with lobster butter, pasta, white wine, shaved vegetables and fresh herbs
Home-run:
Chocolate Fondue for two: includes fruit, cake, cookies and lots of molten, delicious, finger licking chocolate…mmmm…I wonder where this is going?
So there you have it; dinner for two is just $69…we’ll see you there…
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
This Week at The Branch
Wednesday, February 8, The Exes, 8pm, $5: This week, join us on Wednesday (actually, every Wednesday…) for live Hot Country and East Coast covers with our very own fun loving Kim James and her band: The Exes. Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company is the sponsor for this ‘college night’ as we’ve been calling it; but perhaps, based on the all ages appeal we’ve seen so far, ‘pub night’ would be a more appropriate title: What does that mean? Well, a pitcher of Beau’s Lug Tread Beer comes with a free order of nachos (this month, limit one free nacho per table of four) and there are some door prizes (in case you’ve seen a few of those sweet new Beau’s toques around…) The music is swinging and fun, the atmosphere is casual (a good stop for fans of the Rubber Boots Sundays…) and dancing is encouraged!
Thursday, February 9; George Buys, 8pm, no cover: Local blues scholar, erstwhile Roosterman Blues Band member, and Beatle aficionado George Buys will be on hand with his axe and harp to help you sing those blues away. This be the first of a few George Buys Thursday night shows we hope to scatter throughout the course of the year—come on out for a while, or even just for a smile…
Friday, February 10; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 11; Ottawa Valley Special, 9pm, $6: (Must admit, I cribbed the following from OVS’ website…) The Ottawa Valley Special serves up a tasty meal of hot bluegrass, classic country, blues and folk that’s better than Mama’s home cookin’. Acoustic guitar, mandolin, fiddle and bass are the mix: Mandolin/guitar player/singer and songwriter Jamie Anderson toured nationally in the states for over 20 years and has also played in Canadian venues like Rasputin’s and the Black Sheep Inn, her nine(!) albums have received airplay on mainstream TV and hundreds of radio shows. Holding down the low end on stand-up bass is Jim Bossert. His first instrument was the piano but since it’s real hard to play Old Joe Clark on one, he switched to bass a few years ago. Ottawa native Tracy Clark is a singer/guitarist who has performed and recorded with many local blues, rock and country bands for over thirty years, including Hickory Wind. Fiddler Ellen Daly (…with a Kemptville pedigree!) can crank out anything from Irish to Cape Breton to old time without even breaking a sweat. She may only be seventeen but she’s played for ten years and has won countless contests in Canada and the United States. Recently she placed second at the Canadian Open Under 18 Fiddle Championships and fourth at the 2010 Pembroke Fiddle Contest. In 2008 she was the Under 16 Eastern North American Irish Fiddle Champion.
This is good time music for folks who like good times, not to be missed!
Sunday, February 12; Love Song Open Stage, 3-6pm, free! The Sunday closest to Valentine’s Day is always our ‘Love Song Open Stage;’ no advance sign up is required. Just Love.
Thursday, February 9; George Buys, 8pm, no cover: Local blues scholar, erstwhile Roosterman Blues Band member, and Beatle aficionado George Buys will be on hand with his axe and harp to help you sing those blues away. This be the first of a few George Buys Thursday night shows we hope to scatter throughout the course of the year—come on out for a while, or even just for a smile…
Friday, February 10; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free: Frank Western, as you may or may not know, is a pseudonym; and his real name? Elvis Aaron freakin’ Presley. You wanted to know, well THIS is where he is, PLEASE, don’t hate him for wanting his privacy. And Birdie Whyte? Norma Jean Baker, or, as you may have known her, that’s right; Marilyn Monroe. Yep. Not dead, neither one of them, just hiding out in Kemptville. Who knew that these two were timeless lovers? I mean, it makes sense, when you think about it. Well, I’m sure that you understand, but for the sake of their privacy, the world can never know. So don’t tell anyone. Really. And don’t come see for yourself either. Whatever you do, don’t come see Elvis and Marilyn at the Branch Restaurant every Friday. Please. Don’t. Really.
Saturday, February 11; Ottawa Valley Special, 9pm, $6: (Must admit, I cribbed the following from OVS’ website…) The Ottawa Valley Special serves up a tasty meal of hot bluegrass, classic country, blues and folk that’s better than Mama’s home cookin’. Acoustic guitar, mandolin, fiddle and bass are the mix: Mandolin/guitar player/singer and songwriter Jamie Anderson toured nationally in the states for over 20 years and has also played in Canadian venues like Rasputin’s and the Black Sheep Inn, her nine(!) albums have received airplay on mainstream TV and hundreds of radio shows. Holding down the low end on stand-up bass is Jim Bossert. His first instrument was the piano but since it’s real hard to play Old Joe Clark on one, he switched to bass a few years ago. Ottawa native Tracy Clark is a singer/guitarist who has performed and recorded with many local blues, rock and country bands for over thirty years, including Hickory Wind. Fiddler Ellen Daly (…with a Kemptville pedigree!) can crank out anything from Irish to Cape Breton to old time without even breaking a sweat. She may only be seventeen but she’s played for ten years and has won countless contests in Canada and the United States. Recently she placed second at the Canadian Open Under 18 Fiddle Championships and fourth at the 2010 Pembroke Fiddle Contest. In 2008 she was the Under 16 Eastern North American Irish Fiddle Champion.
This is good time music for folks who like good times, not to be missed!
Sunday, February 12; Love Song Open Stage, 3-6pm, free! The Sunday closest to Valentine’s Day is always our ‘Love Song Open Stage;’ no advance sign up is required. Just Love.
Monday, January 30, 2012
This Week at the Branch Texas Grill
Wednesday, February 1: The Exes, 8pm, $5. Beau's beer has pitched in to help support this new weekly event at the Branch; Hot Country stylings with Ottawa's The Exes, featuring our own Kim James, out from behind the bar to wail out all your favourite country hits from today's top artists...Every pitcher of Beau's Lug Tread Beer comes with a free Branch 'Buenos Nachos'--piles of blue and yellow corn chips topped with cheese, queso sauce,beans, sour cream, salsa and jalapenos (if you want'em...) ...This is becoming a bit of an after dinner 'pub night' with a similar vibe to our popular Rubber Boots Buffet, it's social, fun, and yes, dancing is encouraged!
Thursday, February 2; Keith Glass, 8pm, free! Keith Glass will be performing the last of his monthly ‘First Thursday’ showcases next Thursday, February 2nd. Keith is taking a break from this monthly event to immerse himself in his next major recording project, (that’s right, a new Keith Glass album!) Let’s pull a big crowd for this living legend next Thursday to send him off in style…For those that don’t know it yet, Keith is the multiple Juno award winning guitarist and primary songwriter for the legendary Canadian Country band Prairie Oyster, as well as being the perennial sideman for Ottawa’s incredibly popular (and rightly so!) Lynn Miles, and an occasional journeyman with other local favourites, Trevor Alguire and Brock Zeman. It has been a real privilege getting to know Keith these last few months, but we are all looking forward to hearing his new material and (hopefully, hint, hint…) hosting a cd release party for him when it is ready for the light of day! Don’t miss the last of these free shows, your next chance to see him, well, let’s just say it may not be so easy to get in, if you know what I mean…That’s next Thursday, February 2nd, 8pm, and yep, it’s free!
Friday, February 3; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free! Frank Western and Birdie Whyte have come to be a symbol for all that is good and right at The Branch...Heck, the world! Sweet cover tunes that range from old time to rootsy blues, Tom Waits, John Hiatt, John Prine and Gillian Welch; and originals that are precise, crafted, funny and even beautiful. The only thing better than the music is the always warm and often hilarious stage presence of Kemptville's biggest stars!
Saturday, February 4; Trevor Alguire, 9pm, $10: We are always pleased to welcome back one of our most popular (for good reason!) Branch regulars, country-tinged singer-songwriter Trevor Alguire; (...the following biographical info was provided by the artist...) "Alguire, hailing from a small town just south of Ottawa Ontario, first drew attention in 2004 with the release of the album Narrowed Down (under the guise of his band Mercury Pickup). The album was critically acclaimed in the press with frequent comparisons to artists such as Steve Earl, Tom Petty, Blue Rodeo, Wilco and Uncle Tupelo. These comparisons said As of Yesterday his second release landed Alguire his first record deal alongside fellow songwriters such as Steve Earle and Buddy Miller proving that Alguire was only at the start of such musical depth.
Within four months of releasing As of Yesterday, Alguire went worldwide with consistent radio play across Europe, Australia and North America. Two of Alguire’s songs have since been released on Blue Rose Records compilations along side Gurf Morlix, Steve Earle & Dwight Yoakam. Multiple Juno award winner Keith Glass of Prairie Oyster (Canada’s premiere roots music ensemble) collaborated with Alguire to produce and play on Alguire’s recent album. The newly recorded second solo album was released in July opening for Martha Wainwright at Ottawa Bluesfest.
“Alguire tells tales of life on the road, his words painting pictures of his country and its people. He is a great story teller with empathy and emotional depth matched by a warm sonorous and strong voice, reminiscent of Richard Buckner, Tim Easton and Michael Hall.”
Sunday: Open Stage 3-6pm, Rubber Boots Buffet from 2-8...
Thursday, February 2; Keith Glass, 8pm, free! Keith Glass will be performing the last of his monthly ‘First Thursday’ showcases next Thursday, February 2nd. Keith is taking a break from this monthly event to immerse himself in his next major recording project, (that’s right, a new Keith Glass album!) Let’s pull a big crowd for this living legend next Thursday to send him off in style…For those that don’t know it yet, Keith is the multiple Juno award winning guitarist and primary songwriter for the legendary Canadian Country band Prairie Oyster, as well as being the perennial sideman for Ottawa’s incredibly popular (and rightly so!) Lynn Miles, and an occasional journeyman with other local favourites, Trevor Alguire and Brock Zeman. It has been a real privilege getting to know Keith these last few months, but we are all looking forward to hearing his new material and (hopefully, hint, hint…) hosting a cd release party for him when it is ready for the light of day! Don’t miss the last of these free shows, your next chance to see him, well, let’s just say it may not be so easy to get in, if you know what I mean…That’s next Thursday, February 2nd, 8pm, and yep, it’s free!
Friday, February 3; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free! Frank Western and Birdie Whyte have come to be a symbol for all that is good and right at The Branch...Heck, the world! Sweet cover tunes that range from old time to rootsy blues, Tom Waits, John Hiatt, John Prine and Gillian Welch; and originals that are precise, crafted, funny and even beautiful. The only thing better than the music is the always warm and often hilarious stage presence of Kemptville's biggest stars!
Saturday, February 4; Trevor Alguire, 9pm, $10: We are always pleased to welcome back one of our most popular (for good reason!) Branch regulars, country-tinged singer-songwriter Trevor Alguire; (...the following biographical info was provided by the artist...) "Alguire, hailing from a small town just south of Ottawa Ontario, first drew attention in 2004 with the release of the album Narrowed Down (under the guise of his band Mercury Pickup). The album was critically acclaimed in the press with frequent comparisons to artists such as Steve Earl, Tom Petty, Blue Rodeo, Wilco and Uncle Tupelo. These comparisons said As of Yesterday his second release landed Alguire his first record deal alongside fellow songwriters such as Steve Earle and Buddy Miller proving that Alguire was only at the start of such musical depth.
Within four months of releasing As of Yesterday, Alguire went worldwide with consistent radio play across Europe, Australia and North America. Two of Alguire’s songs have since been released on Blue Rose Records compilations along side Gurf Morlix, Steve Earle & Dwight Yoakam. Multiple Juno award winner Keith Glass of Prairie Oyster (Canada’s premiere roots music ensemble) collaborated with Alguire to produce and play on Alguire’s recent album. The newly recorded second solo album was released in July opening for Martha Wainwright at Ottawa Bluesfest.
“Alguire tells tales of life on the road, his words painting pictures of his country and its people. He is a great story teller with empathy and emotional depth matched by a warm sonorous and strong voice, reminiscent of Richard Buckner, Tim Easton and Michael Hall.”
Sunday: Open Stage 3-6pm, Rubber Boots Buffet from 2-8...
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
This Week at the Branch Texas Grill!
Wednesday, January 25; The Exes, 8pm, $5. Wednesday is our second installment of our Beau's beer sponsored 'college night' featuring Hot Country covers with The Exes, with our very own Kim James. It's gonna be a good ol' time in the little ol' town Tonight...so be sure and bring yer dancin' boots! This Wednesday, enjoy a free nachos with every pitcher of Beau's Lug Tread Beer. Door prizes, in the form of some sweet Beau's schwag will be available, and a student i.d. gets you in free: otherwise it's just five bucks!
Thursday, January 26; Songwriters Circle with Meredith Luce, Pat Moore, Ray Harris, hosted by Bruce Enloe, 7pm, free! I'd like to mention this Thursday night's Songwriter Circle again...Meredith Luce, Pat Moore and Ray Harris are each a good enough reason to come to the branch on their own, but the three of them together (and don't let me being the host scare you off) is more like, "Holy Cow! Where do I sign up?" kind of good...It's this Thursday, and believe it or not, it's free!!!
Meredith Luce was born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Her musical education began when she was five, as a piano student. From ages seven to ten, Meredith was involved in a children's musical theatre company, where she gained her first stage experience.
A passion for singing led her to classical voice work, which saw her complete her Grade One Royal Conservatory of Music training. Not one to settle, Meredith then moved on to dabble in cello, clarinet, recorder, drums, bass, mandolin, baritone ukulele, and guitar — her main instrument.
Pat Moore’s voice has a warm and expressive quality, as perfectly suited to a rich ballad, as it is to an up-tempo power song. She moves easily from the storytelling of the singer/songwriter genre, to the lonesome sound of traditional country and bluegrass. Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario, she grew up in a house filled with music, from show tunes to Peter, Paul, & Mary, and Gordon Lightfoot; and later jazz masters like Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles to bluegrass legends like Bill Monroe, and Flatt and Scruggs. As a young girl she would sing harmonies with her sisters while doing the supper dishes – songs from the Momas and Papas, and Simon and Garfunkel.
In the 1980’s Pat played dog-house bass and sang lead and harmony in Maple Hill, an award winning bluegrass band. Later, Pat ventured out on her own, writing, and releasing her debut solo CD, The Time’s Never Been Better. In 2003 Pat recorded her second CD, Take it to Heart, and formed her band The Vinyl Frontier. Her recordings have received praise from far and wide - Holland, Italy, Australia, the U.S. and across Canada, for her captivating storytelling, her warm strong voice, and the musicianship of the people she surounds herself with. The live show is always fun!
Pat continues to write, and performs solo, and in various combinations with members of the Vinyl Frontier – Pat McLaughlin, Ann Downey, Al Bragg, and Alistair Dennett. She has also returned to bluegrass, with the resurrected Maple Hill Bluegrass.
Ray Harris is an Ottawa based alt-country/ folk/rockabilly/Americana/whatever songwriter & musician, and the host of the Elmdale Tavern’s monthly Wednesday night songwriter’s circle.
Bruce Enloe, before he was a chef, killed some time in Austin, Texas writing and singing punk-influenced country and Beatles inspired pop songs; he took a ten year break from music to do this other thing, but 5 or 6 years ago, he got the bug back and has been writing songs that are equal parts ‘dad rock’ , James Taylor, Robert Earl Keen and indie-folk. He is currently recording a sprawling ‘Chinese Democracy’ style 2-3 year solo album project (in stores by June…2015! Probably!), performing with his pals The Burning Sensations and occasionally working and recording with Kemptville’s enigmatic Belarus Racing Team Collective.
Friday, January 27th; The Frank and Birdie Show, 7pm, free! Frank Western is no ordinary Western, he's more, well, Frank. And Birdie Whyte is no ordinary Birdie, she's more...Well, she's not a bird, for one thing, though she kind of sings like one...and although she is Whyte, I wouldn't necessarily say that that is a defining characteristic...Frank and Birdie sing songs about love life and a life of love over the dulcet tones of an almost 'John Carroll-esque' slide guitar and banjo. And fun? Yep, they got that!
Saturday, January 29th; Amanda Rheaume, 9pm, $8. This is Amanda’s first branch show, but judging by the early buzz around this one, it won’t be the last—Amanda is a beautiful Ottawa based singer-songwriter and will be bringing a band along to help her out—the following was cribbed from her website: “…Rheaume is a powerful vocalist with just a touch of grit and an instantly-accessible roots-pop-Americana sound -- has been a pillar of her local Ottawa music scene for about a decade now. A $40,000 winner in Live 88.5’s 2008 Big Money Shot competition, Rheaume is not only a regular at local festivals and joints like the Rainbow Bistro, she has also distinguished herself as one of the city’s, if not the country’s, most selflessly giving musicians. She organizes Ottawa’s Bluebird North songwriter showcases, she participated in the Babes for Breasts tour to raise money for breast cancer, she recorded a charity Christmas EP for Boys and Girls club of Ottawa – selling 6500 copies just in Ottawa, she donated a dollar from each album sold during her last tour to a fund for the families of military personnel, and she’s even performed for the troops in Afghanistan…twice.”
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