July is upon us, and with one of the year’s warmest months it’s so nice to venture out to check out live music. There are a ton of festivals in Ontario now, but there are also a ton of great things happening in venues across Peterborough and the Kawarthas. Here are just a few of the great shows to check out this month.
Kim Mitchell at Peterborough Musicfest in Del Crary Park on July 1
On Saturday, July 1st, head to Del Crary Park in downtown Peterborough to hear hits like “Patio Lanterns”, “Go for a Soda,” and others when Kim Mitchell takes the stage at Peterborough Musicfest.
It’s a big show celebrating Canada Day and kicking another year of the free twice-weekly festival. I’ll admit I’m not the world’s biggest fan of Mitchell, but you must respect his hits and the longevity of his career, both as a solo artist and as a member of Max Webster. And who wouldn’t want to sing along with a few thousand other Canucks while listening to “I’m a Wild Party?”
The show begins at 8 p.m., followed by a big Canada 150 fireworks display.
VIDEO: “Go For a Soda” – Kim Mitchell
David R. Elliott with Mary-Kate Edwards at The Garnet in Peterborough on July 4
David R. Elliott returns to Peterborough on Tuesday, July 4th at The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) along with local sweetheart Mary-Kate Edwards.
From the Maritimes, Elliott has just released a great album called Strawberry Grass. Recorded entirely on tape in Memramcook, New Brunswick, the album is a mix of stripped-down songs with a few rockers mixed in. It’s jangly, and imperfect in places, and that really adds to its cool vibes.
The show begins around 9 p.m. and you can pay at the door.
VIDEO: “Back East” – David R. Elliott
Reid Jamieson Band at the Juniper Island Pavilion in Stoney Lake on July 6
A rare concert on Stoney Lake’s Juniper Island takes place on Thursday, July 6th as Vancouver’s Reid Jamieson Band plays in the pavilion.
Jamieson may best be known for his numerous appearances on CBC Radio show Vinyl Café featuring the late Stuart McLean. His music is smooth and meaningful, with sharp lyrics and a great voice. His latest release is a Leonard Cohen tribute album called Dear Leonard: The Leonard Cohen Collection.
The show costs $20, with doors open at 7 p.m. and music beginning at 8 p.m.. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Association of Stony Lake Cottagers. For more information head to www.reidjamieson.com.
VIDEO: “Hey That’s No Way To Say Goodbye” by Leonard Cohen performed by Reid Jamieson
Pays d’en Haut at Catalina’s in Peterborough on July 7
Get ready for a Cajun dance party with the authentic and exciting local group Pays d’en Haut at Catalina’s (131 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-5972) on Friday, July 7th at 8 p.m.
The group is made up of great local musicians including Curtis Dreidger, Benj Rowland, Matt Watson, Jim Gleason, and Leslie McGrath. Accordion, fiddle, and triangle combine with the bass and guitar and stellar vocals bringing you a real taste of Cajun music.
Tickets are $10 or pay what you can, and are available at the door. Bring your dancing shoes for a great night of music and Louisiana-style snacks, including jambalaya.
VIDEO: “Allons a Lafayette/Peterborough” – Pays d’en Haut
Catriona Sturton at Elmhirst’s Resort in Keene on July 11
Update July 9: Catriona Sturton is unable to perform; Kate Kelly & Bobby Watson will be performing instead.
One woman/man bands are an exciting thing to watch because there is so much ground being covered sonically by one person. Catriona Sturton brings a certain magic to the stage with her music. She is playing on Tuesday, July 11th at Elmhirst’s Resort (1045 Settlers Line, Keene, 705-295-4591 or 800-461-1940).
On first listen she plays the blues, but her music goes deeper than that with elements of dark folk. Sturton plays harmonica, guitar, stomping percussion, and vocals and she has toured Canada, America and Europe extensively as a musician.
The show begins at 7:30 p.m., there’s no cover, and you do not want to miss it.
VIDEO: “Heavy Weather” – Catriona Sturton
3TiR at the Market Hall in Peterborough on July 11
It will be a night of gorgeous traditional music on Tuesday, July 11th at Market Hall Performing Arts Centre (140 Charlotte St., Peterborough, 705-749-1146) as talented trio 3TiR hit the stage.
Featuring accordion, guitar, and fiddle, the group is made up of Pierre Schryer, Dermot Byrne, and Adam Dobres. The trio has been nominated for and won Junos, Canadian Folk Music awards, and even Grammys.
Tickets are $17 plus fees for theatre seats, $22 plus fees for cabaret seating, and $12 plus fees for children 12 and under, available at the Market Hall Box Office or online at markethall.org. Tickets for Rows D and Tables 11/12 are available (cash only) at Moondance (425 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-742-9425).
The show begins at 8 p.m. and will be a showcase of some amazing instrumental skill.
VIDEO: Kiley’s Reel / Sam Cormier Reel / Cog Parizeau – 3TiR
Birthday Boys at The Red Dog in Peterborough on July 11
It’s always a party when Peterborough band Birthday Boys reunite and play a show. Lucky for all of us, that is happening on Friday, July 14th at The Historic Red Dog Tavern (189 Hunter St. W, Peterborough, 705-750-1710).
Rock and roll at its finest as Graeme Kennedy, Jordan Mack, Jeremy Boyd, and Matt Paige play a rare show. After the band, there will be some DJing by Ricky Scatman and RHIJ.
The show begins at 10:30 p.m. and you can pay at the door.
VIDEO: “Daughters Man” – Birthday Boys
Laura Merrimen at The Garnet in Peterborough on July 16
Originally from Halifax, Laura Merrimen now lives in Toronto and is bringing her smooth soulful voice and intelligent songs to The Garnet (231 Hunter St. W., Peterborough, 705-874-0107) on Sunday, July 16th.
I say smooth soulful voice — and it is true — but her songs also have a little grit to them, which is awesome. Tickets are available at the door and the start time will be around 9 p.m.
VIDEO: “Deep Down” – Laura Merrimen
Jon Epworth & the Miracle Sweat at The Spill in Peterborough on July 21
Fans of soul inspired grooves and funky feels will want to head to The Spill (414 George St. N., Peterborough, 705-748-6167) on Friday, July 21st for Jon Epworth & the Miracle Sweat.
Epworth is originally from Halifax, but now lives and co-operates a studio in Victoria, BC. His latest record Confuser has been receiving rave reviews from Exclaim and beyond.
It’s another great show for those who love to dance while they listen to music. You can pay at the door and the show begins around 9 p.m.
VIDEO: “First Day” – Jon Epworth & the Miracle Sweat
Nick Ferrio at Peterborough Square on July 28
Live and Local Lunches continue throughout the summer on Fridays in the Peterborough Square courtyard. On Friday, July 28th, it will be local singer/songwriter Nick Ferrio.
His vocals emote more than the average singer, as he weaves stories about love lost and found, and of his many travels playing bass in The Burning Hell.
The free show runs from noon to 1 p.m.
VIDEO: “At My Window” – Nick Ferrio
