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Monday, December 9, 2013

Montreal- Local Music Scene December 2013




I just can't help myself but to express immense satisfaction and joy at some our own bands. I was very impressed on Friday night November 29th at the Café Chaos Club ,downtown Montreal; featuring 3 top notch local bands. Opening was the MadCooks- a Doors meets the Rolling Stones band. Great vocals, guitar work, and well written songs. This band's only formed 6 months ago, but Ohh boy ! Go see them !
The next band on the agenda was "Mad June" , an all female ensemble. Very impressive as well. Great pop music a la B-52s, Go-Gos, style. Boppy original pop music, Very confortable on stage,confident. These girls were really having fun- it was obvious. Check out their Facebook page under "Mad June".
The headliner of the night was a glam rock band called "The Cheap Thrills". The lead singer was in total control of the stage. A lot of "pizzaz"; reminded me of a  Rod Stewart & the Faces clone, mixed in with some "Cheap Trick". "The Sweet ", and New York Dolls also come to my mind. Their cover song of "Just What I Needed" originally done by THE CARS was also played incredibly well by The Thrills.
For more details on The Cheap Thrills, and the MadCooks bands just go to Facebook.com and type in these names. What a night it was for me. The $10.00 I paid at the door was well worth the price of admission. I also would like to add : Café Chaos Club is an awesome place to see live bands and to party . No question !!!  CAFé CHAOS CLUB
Address
  • 2031 Saint-Denis Rue
  • Montreal, Quebec H2X3K8
Phone(514) 844-0738



Sunday, November 10, 2013

David Bowie Is - Art Exhibit in Toronto,Canada Until November 27,2013

Check out "David Bowie Is" at the Art Gallery of Ontario in downtown Toronto on Dundas Street West. It's a mesmerizing and informative display of David Bowie's life & works. Upon entering this exhibit you will be handed a Walkman-like recorder and headphone. This device is programmed to lead you every step of the way through,  and explaining, by David Bowie himself , his life in great detail. His music, the costumes he wore. It's all there at the exhibit. It's a 2-21/2 hour visit so be prepared. The David Bowie Is Exhibit really blew my mind. See this for yourself ! For more information and tickets go to the website : http://www.ago.net/


Friday, October 25, 2013

Simple Minds Review of the Live Concert in Montreal,Canada October 21,2013

First let me start by saying I am an original Simple Minds fan. I discovered the band when I was DJ at CRSG cable FM Radio at Concordia University in winter of 80-81. The station manager at the time, Richard Edwarde (R.I.P.), turned me on to the L.P. "Empires & Dance". We listened to the whole album together in the studio. It was new,revolutionary,and mesmerizing to us both. To us, this album by an obscure group from Glasgow,Scotland was going to get played on our student radio station. No question about that ! We played 3 songs which stood out tall from this L.P.- "Celebrate", "Today I Died Again", and "Thirty Frames A Second". Empires and Dance LP was released September 27,1980. Since October or November of the same year we played the heck out of this album. The next Simple Minds album was released in 1981 "Sons and Fascination". In my mind, that was it.This band is NOT so simple ! They are versatile and unique in their style and sound, that I predicted to myself and every one of my friends that Simple Minds is for real and to be taken very seriously. My first Simple Minds live concert was sometime in late '81 or early '82 at a small 250 capacity room in downtown Calgary Alberta for the Sons and Fascination Tour.I saw them again in '83 for the 81-82-83-84 Tour. On stage they were perfect and so was the sound. Jim Kerr, the lead singer did not smile much. He was totally focused and immersed in his music. I have included the "I Promised You A Miracle" video to illustrate this point.
The 2013 live performance at the Metropolis Club in downtown Montreal on Monday October 21 was a tad disappointing.The songs which "made" Simple Minds in its heyday were NOT performed.
Songs like "Big Sleep", "Thirty Frames A Second", "Theme For Great Cities","Sister Feeling Call"". "Premonition", and the most surprising one of them all "CELEBRATE" ! "Celebrate" is the name of this World Tour for God's sake ! It's one of their best songs ever. And they did not perform this ?And there were many other songs not included as well. Instead the band plays cover song such as "Neon Lights" (Kraftwerk), and "Gloria" their last song of the evening, a song done many times by many artists (Van Morrison). Puh-lease ! Simple Minds blew it in my opinion. This concert could have easily been the CONCERT OF THE YEAR. But instead they opted for the easy way out. They just went "corporate" , and commercial, like so much of music today. Shame on you Simple Minds. I still love the band and the music. Simple Minds will still be in my library with some of the greatest songs on this planet. Well, you know, all good things must come to an end. I have seen Simple Minds live for the very last time. And I will just have to look at old videos and listen to the vintage Simple Minds albums to keep the spirit alive.
By the way ; here are some positives of the live Simple Minds concert on October 21. The young and beautiful African lady accompanying Jim Kerr on stage was fabulous, very competent. Her singing of "Neon Lights" was impeccable. Simple Minds did play "I Promised You A Miracle" (at least !). Peace out. Have a great day everyone !

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

The Wiggle Room in Montreal- New Live Music Venue

Looking for a cool lounge jazz pop rock place that makes you feel you're in Manhattan New York, or Chicago ? Capacity is 130 persons with a retro red velour feel to the club. It's simple with a small stage and groovy bar with very friendly staff. Manager/owner Jeremy Hechtman will make sure you have a great experience. The crowd is generally 30+ but anyone over 18 years of age is most welcome. Check out their website at : http://www.wiggleroom.ca/  . The club is located on St. Laurent boulevard just across the street from Schwartz's Deli. See you there !

Rocky Horror Picture Show Annual Halloween Ball- Montreal Oct.31, Nov.1 & 2,2013

The annual Rocky Horror Picture Show Halloween Ball takes place in Montreal's Cinéma Impérial on Bluery street,just north of Ste. Catherine for 3 nights starting on October 31. For complete details go to the website at : http://www.rockyhorrormontreal.com/index.php?lang=en&section=home
Live actors musicians and other wacky goings on will await you at this wild Halloween show ! Don't miss it. Tickets are only $18.00 . Get yours now 'cause this sells out fast .

Friday, October 4, 2013

The Phantom of the Opera 1925 Silent Film Oct.4 & 5,2013

Hello all you vintage horror movie buffs ! The iconic silent film "The Phantom of the Opera" featuring horror movie legend Lon Chaney (The WolfMan), will be shown at the Westmount United Church basement at corner of Landsdowne & DeMaisonneuve West. But it's not just a silent movie viewing . Oh, no ! This evening will go the extra mile in having real live musicians and actors to accompany this film. Refereshments and snacks will also be made available at very affordable prices. The fun begins at 7:30 p.m. and will end by 9:30-10 p.m. This film presentation is produced by Mr. Phil Spurrell, Montreal born & bred. Mr. Spurrell also heads the annual Rocky Horror Picture Show held in Montreal every year on or about Halloween, October 30-31. Visit his website at : www.cineclubfilmsociety.com for all the details.
For the Phantom of the Opera Silent Film the admission fee is cash only, at the door prior to the performance, of 12.00$, and only $8.00 for students and seniors 65+
So don't miss this rare event ! Friday & Saturday October 4 - 5 at 7:30 P.M. See you there !



Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Kimberly & The Dreamtime Lounge Band From Montreal

I've recently made an interesting musical discovery. Kimberly & The Dreamtime, from Montreal. When I saw the band perform recently in downtown Montreal I wasn't sure what to expect. Kimberly is the head and sultry singer of the band along with 3 other very competent band member. Bass guitar, keyboard,and drums. Wow, who knew ? Am I in Montreal, or New York city ? Very impressive songs and musicianship.Jazzy loungy pop music is what this is all about. Kimberly stage presence is impressive I must say. For more details about this new band please check out the website at  http://www.kimberlyandthedreamtime.com/
Here are 2 short videos of Kimberly & The Dreamtime live in concert !




Alex Bechlian - Property Consultant Montreal & Suburbs. Purchase/Sale/Rental

Looking to rent or own a condo, house, cottage, or just a clean apartment without extra or hiddeen costs and hassle ? Then look no further than Mr. Alex Bechlian. Total expert in anything having to do with buying, or renting-short or long term a condo or apartment anywhere in Montreal or suburbs. With a background in computer science and business administration in the real estate milieu Mr. Bechlian has the experience and the know-how to help you find the right dwelling at the best price in town- guaranteed ! Alex Bechlian will advise you of common pitfalls in the buying or renting process of living spaces in the city with his primary interest in YOU- NOT the building owner or developer. Alex Bechlian is fully licenced as a real estate broker in association with the SUTTON GROUP. The real deal folks ! And Mr. Bechlian is one of the nicest persons you'll ever meet with a totally up-front and straight forward approach to doing business. Call Alex Bechlian. You have absolutely NOTHING to lose- and everything to gain. Visit his website at : www.montreal3a.ca .
Telephone at 514-334-1144 anytime.
ALEX BECHLIAN

Monday, September 30, 2013

Pet Shop Boys concert September 24,2013 in Montreal Olympia Theatre

If you missed the Pet Shop Boys show September 24 at the Théatre L'Olympia in Montreal you probably missed one of the most exhilirating concerts ever. The performance was filled with lavish costumes, lots of brilliant colors like yellow, pink, green, blue, and red. The PSB played songs from their latest LP release"Electric" and of course classic hit songs such as "Go West", "Rent", "Always On My Mind", and "West End Girls", the signature '80s hit song which put the PSB on the pop music world map. This is the same duo, singer Neil Tennant,and sidekick Chris Lowe, who played live at the London Summer Olympics in 2012. Their music comprises of electro pop rythyms with intelligent, well thought out lyrics. PSB in my opinion is one of the best pop music bands in the world. Their records speak for themselves,and their live show is extravagant and well worth the money ! Here are a couple of videos of this performance. enjoy !




Monday, September 23, 2013

MEDUSA - Hot New Authentic Italian Restaurant in Downtown Montreal !

Looking for a very good quality Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Montreal without the high prices ? Well look no further. Medusa restaurant owners Gino, Joe, and Massimo will make sure you will have an unforgettable dining experience. You'll get a feel of Italy with the food and heartwarming hospitality. Try their house meatballs ! A must.Try some wine from their extensive wine list from every wine region in the world. Their veal dishes and home-made pasta are their specialties. Did I mention their home-made desserts ? OMG, you must try the italian cake "Tiramisu" , and their famous carrot cake. I could not believe how fresh and light tasting these desserts were. I'm rating this place at least a 9 on 10. Go there ! Here is their website : http://www.lamedusa.ca/ . They are located at 1224 Drummond Street, between Ste. Catherine West & René-Lévesque Blvd. West- not far from the big Sheraton Centre Hotel. Tell Gino,Joe,or Massimo you heard about the restaurant from reading this posting ! Telephone: 514-878-4499. Reservations strongly recommended.

O Folie Salon & Spa in Old Montreal 235 Notre Dame West

O Folie Salon & Spa at 235 Notre Dame street West, just east of McGill street is your sweet oasis Monday - Saturday ,and Sunday by reservation only.Massotherapy, hair care, esthetics such as waxing,pedicure,manicure,facial care,and teeth whitening are some of the many services offered. You can also take a sip of green tea,or enjoy a cappucino or espresso coffee while you're there. Owners Tristan & Ophelia will take special care of you whatever your needs. Website address: www.ofolie.com or on Facebook at 
www.facebook.com/OfolieMontreal

Peter Hook Concert Sept.18 at Club Soda in Montreal.

Hey everybody ! If you did not go to this concert, this is what you missed. It was one of the best shows I have witnessed in my life. Next big show- Simple Minds at Club Metropolis Monday Oct.21 !
Oops. The video file is too large. You can request the videos on my facebook under "Joe Dimauro".

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Peter Hook & The Light Plays New Order in Montreal's Club Soda September 18,2013


New Order band performing live in concert "Vanishing Point" .

 See Peter Hook of New Order perform live at the Club Soda in Montreal on Wednesday night September 18th,2013. Details and tickets go to :
 http://www.clubsoda.ca/fr/spec-peter_hook_the_light-525.php

Cercle De Paix Concert September 21,2013 at Club Metropolis, Montreal

Cercle De Paix will organize peace day in Montreal (Québec). Go to their website for more details : http://cercledepaix.com/
Big concert scheduled for Saturday Sept. 21,2013 at the Metropolis Club. The people from Cirque du Soleil are behind this big event. Please be there,....for PEACE SAKE.

Incredible Italian Restaurant in Ville St. Laurent - VINO ROSSO

Vino Rosso Restaurant. Remember this name. One of Montreal's best kept secrets is now exposed ! I discovered this Italian eatery through a coupon ad in "LivingSocial" on the internet. It's free to subscribe, by the way. It's legit , no B.S. After you subscribe you'll receive e-mails on a variety of discounted restaurants ans services. This way the companies who give away these coupons give the average consumer a chance to see what the establishment is all about.
So I use this "coupon" to eat at Vina Rosso on a Tuesday night I believe. The waiters were very friendly. The bread which they put on the table first before the meal was very fresh. That's always a good sign. The pasta, veal, and meatballs were outstanding ! Just like my Mama used to make. It did not take long for me to notice that this restaurant is A1 on all counts. You must try this place . Located on Henri-Bourassa Blvd. West, just west of Marcel Laurin in Ville St. Laurent. You need to phone to reserve. Here is the website : http://www.vinorosso.ca/
I was like this after the meal !

Joe Dimauro Happy !

Friday, August 16, 2013

Blondie, Bananarama, and The Pointer Sisters, on tour 2013. October 5 in Montreal !

Do we love the 80s or what ? Blondie will be back in Montreal performing live at the Olympic Stadium on October 5. Special guests are The pointer Sisters, and Banarama. Tickets on sale now. See you there !

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

Toronto - A Taste of The Danforth Weekend August 10-11,2013

While during my visit to Toronto I was blessed with the good luck of the Annual "Taste Of The Danforth" weekend Greek Food Festival, on the Danforth. There was an array of live entertainment, and Greek food (of course) tasting at practically every block. The street was closed to all traffic for this marvelous event. I actually saw a Spock look-a-like dressed just like the character in Star Trek, equipped with his pointy ears and phaser weapon-posing for and with persons who were interested. I noticed he was wearing a "tips" bottle on his belt. Everyone needs to pay their bills, right ? I started getting hungry by around the supper hour on this cloudy Sunday evening and debated which restaurant I should go to. My actor friend from Toronto, Mr. John Wildman (yes, he is a wild man !), was so kind as to recommend me a very good restaurant meditteranean cuisine called "Lolita's Lust". 513 Danforth avenue, just east of Logan street. The food and the service was utterly amazing, I must say. I had the lamb shank dish. It was braised in its juices and sprinkled with goat cheese accompanied with some rapini greens. It was one of the best lamb I ever ever had-really. My friend had the linguine pasta with seafood. It was also very good. The scallops were big and juicy, and fresh ! We had a fried dumpling stuffed with lobster meat as an appetizer. Wow, that was good too. The peanut sauce which came with the dumpling was smooth and tasty. We had each a glass of white wine with our meal, a Pinot Grigio, recommended by our wonderful server. Excellent ! I was surprised a little by how affordable the whole meal was. I've been to many upscale restos that were nothing close to the quality and value that I received at Lolita's Lust restaurant. You must try this place ! Website: www.lolitaslust.ca
Or email them at : info@lolitaslust.ca . Telephone: 416-465-1751

Fred D'Angelo at Mississauga ItalFest Saturday August 10,2013

Hi everyone ! I just returned back to my hometown Montreal from exciting Mississauga & downtown Toronto. On Saturday August 10 I attended the first ever Mississauga Italian Festival. It was held at the newly constructed and modern "Celebration Square" of the Mississauga Civic Centre. The fun began in the afternoon with live singers performing on stage beginning at 6 p.m. There were lots of Italian food kiosques everywhere. The headliner of the evening was Fred D'angelo, a native of France but with strong Italian roots. Fred D'Angelo sings in 4 different languages. French, Italian, English, and Spanish. However, on this particular evening his strong Italian heritage was front and centre and he performed exquisitely ! Here are a couple of videos of his performance . Enjoy !


Thursday, July 25, 2013

I LOVE THE 80'S !!! UPCOMING LIVE 80'S CONCERTS COMING TO MONTREAL FALL 2013

The 80's music just keeps on keeping on . A lot of the music of today is influenced greatly by 80's innovations. Some examples of great 80's bands include U2, Duran Duran, P.I.L. (Public Image Limited), and Simple Minds, to name only a few,....
Coming to Montreal this Fall :
PETER HOOK (Ex guitarist/singer of "New Order" coming to the Club Soda to perform live the most popular album ever done by the 80's band New Order, "Power, Corruption, and Lies". Wednesday September 18 at 8 P.M. Tickets available at the Club Soda ticket office for only $29.00

SIMPLE MINDS, with the original band members, doing a World Reunion tour, coming to the Metropolis Club on Monday October 21, 8 P.M. Tickets are $47.00 at the box office.
THE ORB, playing on Thursday October 24th at the S.A.T. room located on St. Laurent Blvd. downtown Montreal next to the Club Soda. Tickets are already on sale at the S.A.T. ticket office.
And last,but not least, BLONDIE, at the Olympic Stadium venue on October 5th. Tickets available now at www.admission.com

Well. That's all for now. Now I need to continue my conversation with the Ronald Reagan statue. He seems in a good mood ! LOL

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Just For Laughs International Comedy Festival- Montreal Qc. Canada July 15-28,2013

Every year for 30+ years the Just For Laughs festival has everyone with even the slightest sense of humour laugh themselves silly to an array of comedic talents from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and all over this planet. Some famous names are on hand this year. Dave Chapelle, Joan Rivers, Sarah Silverman, and SNL's Seth Meyers are only but a few of the big celebrities coming in to perform at this festival. Don't miss it ! Go to www.hahaha.com for all event details. Me ? I'm going to see Dave Chapelle Friday July 26th and Sarah Silverman (ex-girlfriend of Jimmy Kimmel) on Saturday July 27th. And she is hot !!! See you there.

Sarah Silverman

Friday, May 24, 2013

Inexpensive Lodging in Downtown Montreal 2013

Looking for a clean secure place to stay in downtown Montreal ??? Then look no further than Montreal Hostel Central, and M Montreal Hostel. Very friendly, clean environment with free capuccino, freshly brewed coffee, and the brightest staff you ever meet ! A night's stay at the hotel will cost a lot less than most hotels in Montreal. Outstanding confort and a very relaxed environment awaits you at Montreal Hostel Central. 2 locations , 1. 1586 Saint Hubert Street, close to the Greyhound Bus Terminal, and 2. 1245 Saint André Street, close to Berri subway stop and the main bus terminal. The Saint André location also features a cool underground club-lounge called the M Underground.Free nightly entertainment featuring Montreal's best talents in comedy,rock 'n roll alternative, and country music. Serving international beers and spirits at inexpensive prices. Winners of the 2012 Award for Best Hostel to stay in downtown Montreal, 1st in Canada, and 1st in North America ! Call for information toll free at 1-866-878-5739. Ask for Joshua or Anna.Or go online at : www.hostelmontrealcentral.com  for additional details.

Friday, April 5, 2013

Deborah Adams Design Montreal is Here !

Buy direct from the designer/maker of women's hand bags, purses. Go to the website at :
www.deborahadamsdesign.ca   Ms. Deborah Adams will be there to help or counsel you on any design you want. She is in downtown Montreal. Some of her hand bags are found in exclusive retail stores across Noth America- Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Montreal. Check it out !