A great success for the 16th edition!

In 2008, at the age of 16, he and his band took home the top prize in the Galaxie Rising Star contest. After releasing a first CD in 2007 and a Live DVD, the Kitchener guitarist and singer now has a new solo acoustic album to offer blues fans and is being compared to artists such as John Mayer, Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson. Bridging the gap between traditional and new.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 15:00 to 15:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Shine On Me

The veteran guitarist Jean Millaire was a member of Corbeau before teaming up with Marjo and forever marking the history of music in Quebec. His Johnny Blue Band got Montreal’s Bistro à Jojo grooving on more than one occasion, and today, it is with the experienced singer Andrée Dupré that he is showcasing his huge talent in all realms of popular music, from blues to rock and from soul to pop, from Roy Buchanan to Eric Clapton. Entertainment guaranteed.

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• Friday, July 17, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59

France’s A-list musicians were finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis two years ago, with their brilliant mastery of the West Coast Blues style of Rod Piazza and James Harman. Burning Wire on South Lamar, their new album, was recorded in Austin, Texas. This four-piece band is fully versed in tasty blues. A harmonica lover’s dream!

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• Saturday, July 11, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Sunday, July 12, from 16:00 to 16:45

No-holds-barred electric blues rock is what this four-piece band from the northern outskirts of Montreal is all about. Now celebrating its 15 year anniversary, Bad Boyz Boogie has also launched a self-titled CD produced by Montreal artist Ian Kelly. Picture Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix and ZZ Top all rolled into one, and you get Bad Boyz Boogie!

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• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Both old hands of Montreal’s blues scene, guitarist Bat Taylor and the legendary bassist Stephen Barry have a deep love of traditional pre-war and Chicago blues. Taylor recently released Rough But Ready Enough, on which Barry plays five songs. The intimate settings of the Grain de Café and the MétéoMédia stage will provide the perfect backdrops!

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• Saturday, July 11, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Sunday, July 12, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Monday, July 13, from 17:00 to 19:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Nothing but the Blues

A dedicated disciple of the primal and fluid sounds of Little Walter, Montrealer Bharath Rajakumar has a complete mastery of Walter’s style while adding his own innovative flair. Bharath will serve up the Chicago and Arkansas blues of harmonica legends as well as some of the originals found on Friday Night Fatty recorded with the fabled Junior Watson.

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• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

The pride of funk and soul in Toronto, Blackburn has headed the bill of the Bamboo Club for 15 years. On the band’s new CD called Brotherhood, the three Blackburns mix traditional blues with urban, soul and vocal harmonies reminiscent of the Neville Brothers, rounded out with a touch of Hammond B3 organ. Two outstanding concerts, one of which is the opening spot for Mavis Staples.

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 19:30 to 20:30
• Thursday, July 16, from 17:00 to 17:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Soul Searching

Bob Harrisson immortalized his 2008 Tremblant concert on a CD called Entre Nous that has just hit the stores. Joined by three other musicians, our blues patriarch is an ex-member of Offenbach and has been a pillar of the blues scene for the past 25 years. He has prepared a savoury offering of blues classics and originals, with a few surprises thrown into the mix.
fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Harrison

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• Friday, July 17, from 15:00 to 15:45

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the south-western Louisiana band led by the charismatic accordion player Stanley “Buckwheat” Dural. To celebrate the occasion, they are headed for Tremblant with a new zydeco album, Lay Your Burden Down (Alligator) produced by Steve Berlin of Los Lobos, and which includes covers of Led Zeppelin, Bruce Springsteen and Captain Beefheart songs. Take in some irresistible rhythms complete with horns and authentic washboard. A true party band!

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• Saturday, July 18, from 21:00 to 22:30

The harmonica player from Québec City returns to the festival every year and who can complain? A pillar of Tremblant’s wonderfully bluesy nights, Tremblay is a road warrior who can get an audience going like none other. He is the founder of the Harmonica Festival, a crowd-pleaser and an accomplished singer. Tremblay will be joined by an electric band that always plays full-tilt, whatever the time of night! Are you ready to party?

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• Friday, July 10, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Thursday, July 16, from 17:00 to 19:00
• Thursday, July 16, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Friday, July 17, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Sunday, July 19, from 22:30 to 23:59

This guitarist, singer/songwriter and part-time essayist in his mid-sixties has been writing some very tasty acoustic blues nuggets for over 40 years – with the song Origins of Species ranked 42nd on the Best of 2006 Rolling Stones magazine chart. The winner of a Boston Music Award and a Folk Alliance Award in 2007 will also be taking part in the Acoustic Summit in the evening.

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• Monday, July 13, from 15:00 to 15:45

The winner of the Festiblues 2008 up-and-comers competition and a four-time Lys Blues nominee (of which she has won two awards, including for New Blues Artist), the young Haitian singer raised in Montreal and Brooklyn has a bright future ahead of her. With a new CD in her pocket titled My First Blues, she is returning to Tremblant to perform in a smaller format on three different stages.

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• Saturday, July 18, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Sunday, July 19, from 14:00 to 15:00

Hailing from Victoria, BC, these four young musicians blend folk-rock with blues, reggae and ska. Less known on the traditional blues circuits, they more than make up for it with their originality and irrepressible spirit, appealing particularly to younger festival-goers. A new CD called Protect Your Own has just been released. Calling all snowboarders and skateboarders to the party!

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• Saturday, July 18, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Sunday, July 19, from 15:30 to 17:00

Livingstone is a Montreal-based fingerstyle guitarist who throws a little of everything in the mix – from the authentic styles of Fred McDowell and Reverend Gary Davis to ragtime – and he serves it up with unfailing passion. Together with guitarist and banjo player Colin Perry (Suzie Arioli), they explore a whole breadth of musical history to the origins of blues.

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• Saturday, July 18, from 13:00 to 13:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 17:00 to 17:45

The British Columbia guitarist had his album “Acoustic” nominated for a Juno in 2007. His latest release, David Gogo Different Views, leans more towards blues-rock, and Gogo’s festival set list will include selections from both ends of the spectrum. He will also be opening up for Diunna Greenleaf and Bob Margolin.

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• Friday, July 10, from 19:30 to 20:30
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59

Inspired by James Cotton, the charming Toronto singer and harmonica player lives to play, as proven by his many energetic performances extending late into the night! Rotundo and his true party band will be welcoming Italian guest Enrico Crivellaro, who played on their latest CD No Looking Back.

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• Friday, July 10, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Sunday, July 12, from 19:00 to 20:00
• Sunday, July 12, from 22:30 to 23:59

Riding on the success of their release En Duo (Justin Time) that sold over 10,000 copies in North America and Europe, the singer and her favourite guitarist are back by popular demand following an acclaimed tour in France, Belgium, Lithuania and Russia. They will be giving us a sneak peek of their new songs from an upcoming album slated for release later this year.

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• Monday, July 13, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Wednesday, July 15, from 17:00 to 19:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Trouble In Mind

The outgoing President of the Houston Blues Society hit the ground running as a singer with four consecutive Blues Music Award nominations and first prize at the 2005 International Blues Challenge. She is joined by her band No Mercy and her guest, the legendary Bob Margolin (Muddy Waters) on guitar.

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• Friday, July 10, from 21:00 to 22:30

His brother Johnny drew one of the biggest crowds ever to Tremblant last year, and it’s now time to welcome a rock icon who touched many generations with such songs as Free Ride, Frankenstein, Easy Street and Tobacco Road. Edgar Winter has recently launched his latest album Rebel Road powered by a group of young musicians, and is playing saxophones and keyboards as never before. This year is a big one for Winter as he’ll be part of the Ringo Starr All Starr Band tour alongside Gary Wright and Billy Squier.

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• Sunday, July 12, from 20:30 to 22:00

Tremblant is proud to welcome a great blues guitarist from Padova, Italy and former protégé of Ronnie Earl and Duke Robillard, who lends a sometimes jazzy feel to his guitar work. A new release on Electro-Fi Records called Mojo Zone, The Blues Guitar of Enrico Crivellaro showcases the bluesman’s talent and subtlety in a predominantly instrumental repertoire.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 15:00 to 15:45

With the superb collaboration of Radio-Canada’s Galaxie network, the Tremblant International Blues Festival is pleased to present its third new talent contest. Many young artists have applied by sending in their demo tapes. Three applicants will be chosen to perform in the grand finale on Sunday, July 19th at noon on the Molson Export stage. A professional jury will vote for the winner, who will enjoy a cash prize as well as the expert services of a recording studio for his or her first album. And so begins the next generation of blues artists!

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• Sunday, July 19, from 12:00 to 13:30

Both Sundays of this year’s Festival will feature a very special concert created on the spot by the festival. At 2:00 p.m., various artists already on site for their respective shows will be carefully selected by the Artistic Director for a spur-of-the-moment encounter of acoustic guitarists. An event where anything is possible. Who will steal the show?

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• Sunday, July 12, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Sunday, July 19, from 14:00 to 14:45

Not only is he the bandleader of the all-star Maple Blues Revue, Kendall the singer and songwriter has held the position of bassist for the Downchild Blues Band for quite some time. In fact, he has earned six Maple Blues Awards in ten years for Best Bass Player! He has just released his second solo CD, Feels Real Strong.

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• Friday, July 17, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59

Sioui is a Huron Amerindian guitarist born near Québec City who has played with Kevin Parent, Florent Vollant and Bob Walsh in addition to recording two albums of his own and more recently lending his talent to harmonica player Guy Bélanger’s new CD. With his smooth J.J. Cale-like voice, he will be performing as a duo with guitarist André Lachance.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 15:00 to 15:45

Walking in the footsteps of Magic Dick, Paul Butterfield and Little Walter, the Quebec harmonica performs with five other musicians, including Gilles Sioui on guitar and Bob Walsh as a very special guest. Bélanger, who won a Jutra Award for Gaz Bar Blues as well as multiple Lys Blues Awards, will perform songs from his self-titled album and his latest CD, Between Friends.

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• Saturday, July 18, from 19:00 to 20:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Before You Accuse Me

Henry Breton is the guitarist for Rick L. Blues but also leads his own solid power trio. He is a versatile and confident player who moves effortlessly from West Coast Blues to Jimi Hendrix. He blends a number of blues, R&B and rock influences to produce a high calibre sound. In between teaching and the studio, he is currently working on his next album.

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• Friday, July 17, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Snake Song

This exciting trio of young teen siblings from Tupelo, Mississippi is intriguing to say the least. They won second place at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis two years ago and made an impression on everyone with their string instruments fashioned out of mufflers! More than a novelty, they explore the raw Delta blues style with confidence.

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 19:00 to 20:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Hard Headed Woman

After the tribute shows to Dutch Mason and Jeff Healey staged in the two past editions, the concept show returns to its spot on Tuesday with the theme "The Three Kings of Blues": B.B., Albert and Freddie – three spectacular guitarists who have left their marks on Blues history. The Steve Strongman band will have the honour of leading this memorable and not-to-be-missed evening, which features Steve Hill, Jean-Sébastien Chouinard (Les Respectables), Ricky Paquette and Paul Deslauriers.

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 21:00 to 22:30

The Chicago band’s 20th anniversary will be marked with a Tremblant concert opening for guitarist Mick Taylor. Howard & The White Boys – a staple at Buddy Guy’s Legends – are a four-piece band led by bassist Howard McCullum that cleverly blends electric blues, funk, rock, R&B, soul and Motown. They have garnered multiple South Bay Music Award nominations and released a new CD, Made in Chicago.

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• Friday, July 17, from 19:00 to 20:00

At 78 years of age, Hubert Sumlin – Keith Richards’ idol – is a true living legend. He has single-handedly redefined how blues guitar is played. A witness to some of the best recordings on the fabled Chess label in the 60’s, Sumlin’s guitar can be heard on classics like Killing Floor, Wang Dang Doodle and Built For Comfort and his collaborations with Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf are legendary. He is regularly asked to play with giants such as Aerosmith, Elvis Costello, the Allman Brothers and Santana, and he also had a strong influence on Jeff Beck, Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Ray Vaughan. On May 7th of this year, Hubert Sumlin was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. View Robert Cray for the show details

The final blues notes will vibrate at the base of the mountain on the last day of the Festival with the usual suspects on hand: Jim Zeller and Carl Tremblay will sing and make their harmonicas wail while other musicians both local and from elsewhere will join the party, with Bob Walsh also stepping in to lend his amazing voice and Guy Bélanger his wizardry on harmonica.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 21:00 to 22:30

Born in Boston and raised in Montreal, Jay Sewall is a 2008 Lys Blues Award winner. His fifth CD, All Blues, is a powerful showcase for his talent. He plays as many as ten different harmonicas on the album produced by multi-instrumentalist Ken Whiteley, who is the winner of two Junos and a two-time Grammy nominee. Jay will also be performing a solo show.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 13:00 to 13:45
• Saturday, July 11, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Sunday, July 12, from 15:00 to 15:45

A solitary pioneer working in the trenches, guitarist Jean-Denis Bélanger, a.k.a. JD Slim, has been putting his unique personal stamp on blues, rock, Cajun and country for over 30 years. He was the founder of Blue Rocket Special and also played with Nanette Workman. Pat Loiselle, who performs songs that ring searingly true and plays with a smooth fingerpicking style, is just the man to accompany JD with his varied guitar collection. Just like in the kitchen.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 13:00 to 13:45
• Sunday, July 19, from 17:00 to 17:45

The extraordinary harmonica player and inimitable individual is a festival regular who will be performing on various stages. With his distinctive blend of blues, psychobilly, rock’n roll and other festive anthems, Jim performs songs from his 30 year career and three albums, including the last one, Cut To The Chase.

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• Friday, July 10, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 11, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:29 to 23:58
• Friday, July 17, from 13:00 to 13:45
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 19:00 to 20:00
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Sunday, July 19, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Fright Train

The Montreal guitar virtuoso has a new CD to offer the countless fans who have been his faithful disciples for over 20 years. Having formerly accompanied Michel Pagliaro and many other Quebec music artists, he has been pursuing his own fruitful personal career with his trio – the preferred format of this great guitar pyrotechnist. Here is another opportunity to follow his fascinating evolution.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 16:00 to 16:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Calling on love

The California guitarist is visiting Tremblant for the first time and this is a visit you won’t want to miss. A co-leader of the Nighthawks until 1987, Thackery has been making magic with his band The Drivers, releasing Inside Tracks in 2008. His unique blend of blues, country and rock is in high demand, with over 300 shows per year!

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• Thursday, July 16, from 20:30 to 22:00

J.J. Grey is an accomplished artist with an impressive track record. His innovative raw sound delves into R&B, soul, gospel and blues to create a unique style that defies classification. Orange Blossoms, his second CD on Alligator, reveals Grey’s kaleidoscope of influences that he has successfully and convincingly made his own. Front porch soul!

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• Sunday, July 12, from 21:00 to 22:30

The legendary Joe Louis Walker is back after his memorable 1998 performance at Tremblant. With a new album – Witness to the Blues on Stony Plain – and multiple Grammy and W.C. Handy Awards, the San Francisco guitarist with the soulful voice has built an impressive track record, having played with Mike Bloomfield, John Lee Hooker and Jimi Hendrix and recorded with B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt and Taj Mahal.

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• Friday, July 17, from 21:00 to 22:30

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Hustlin

Now in his fifties, this bluesman has given us six wonderfully creative guitar albums, including his latest one called Good to Go. Campbelljohn won the 2007 East Coast Music Award for Best Blues Album with Weight of the World in addition to a Maple Blues nomination for Best Guitarist that year. Catch him performing with his own band and as part of the “Sidney Steel” concert.

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• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Sydney Steel

The energetic Montreal singer went from fronting the Bluesblooded in the 90’s to achieving top honours at the turn of the millennium with a solo career in old school rock. His rise to rock stardom with the hit SuperSexMe from his second album Suite Life released in 2006 (nominated for an Adisq), set Jonas Tomalty and faithful guitarist Corey Diabo on course for a third album, Promised Land.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 20:30 to 22:00

Over the span of his 30-year career, the West Coast guitarist has played with Big Mama Thornton, Charlie Musselwhite, Lynnwood Slim and William Clarke. He gained recognition as a blues guitarist first with the Mighty Flyers (Rod Piazza) which he founded, and later playing with Canned Heat for 10 years. Having recently produced the album Friday Night Fatty for Montreal harmonica player Bharath and his Rhythm Four, he will be joining the four piece band for 60 packed minutes of blues of all kinds.

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• Friday, July 17, from 19:30 to 20:30

After composing Batylogy as a tribute to his idol on his first album, the young Ottawa guitarist will share the Molson stage with the one and only Charlie Baty (the Nightcats), who played on JW’s most recent CD, Bluelisted. Celebrating the 10th year of his career, Jones was a finalist of the International Writing Contest and a two-time Maple Blues nominee.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 19:30 to 20:30
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59

A worthy representative of New Brunswick at the prestigious International Blues Challenge in Memphis this year, the 19 year old guitarist has a bright future ahead of him. On his first album, Bear With Me, Hallett grinds and hollers in all the right places with the assurance of a veteran. A mean slide guitarist and the leader of his own power trio, Keith Hallett is a rising star.

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• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Eight Canadian blues musicians provide the counterweight to three distinctive voices: Chuck Jackson (Downchild Blues Band), John Mays (Fathead) and Dawn Tyler Watson (Dawn & Paul). These all-star musicians, all Maple Blues Award winners, will deliver a memorable evening where all profits will be donated to the Jeff Healey Fund. The set list is sure to include songs from their new CD Live at Twisted Pines, and much more!

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• Thursday, July 16, from 21:00 to 22:30

This young guitarist from New Brunswick drops in on Tremblant during his Canadian tour with his energetic and soulful solo show. The imposing man’s handiwork on the guitar is a sight to behold. His album Something in Between was released in 2008.

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• Sunday, July 12, from 13:00 to 13:45
• Sunday, July 12, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Monday, July 13, from 14:00 to 14:45

The 57 year old guitarist from Chicago is signed to the fabled Alligator label. Joined by BJ Emery on trombone and Donald Ray Johnson on drums, Vaughn is steeped in the blues from the Windy City and his versatility also has him playing piano and saxophone. He will be opening for Buckwheat Zydeco as well as giving a workshop at L’Aire du Blues.

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• Friday, July 17, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 19:30 to 20:30

Mavis Staples is a legendary lady of gospel and blues who honed her skills in her musical Chicago headed by father Pops Staples, singing the enduring classics Respect Yourself and I’ll Take You There. Over the course of her rich career, she has sung with Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, The Band, and many others. Mavis, a 2004 Grammy nominee, is celebrating her 70th birthday this year. For her first visit to Tremblant, she will be presenting songs from Hope and The Hideout (Anti-Epitaph) released earlier this year.

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 21:00 to 22:30

A true rock icon, this respected guitarist made his name alongside the Bluesbreakers and the Rolling Stones (Let it Bleed, Exile on Main Street, Sticky Fingers, etc.). Now in his 60’s, Taylor has just released A Stone’s Throw, which he will be presenting with his four-piece band as well as a few classics that fans are sure to recognize. After Chris Jagger’s visit last year, yet another Stones connection comes to Tremblant!

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• Friday, July 17, from 20:30 to 22:00

The bluesman from Limoilou, Quebec is a devoted fan of Chicago blues and Buddy Guy, but also Albert and Freddy King and Muddy Waters, whose music he covers with panache. Michel Lavoie, a.k.a. Mike DeWay, teams up with guest singer Josée Ferland to share his treasures with us.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59

Mike Goudreau is a guitarist, singer and composer from the Eastern Townships who is celebrating his 16th year in the business by releasing a ninth CD, Blues Et Cetera – a bright expression of bop, swing, Texas Style, rock and blues delivered with irresistible delight. Whether as the MGB or his other band format the Boppin’ Blues Band, the quality of his material remains timeless.

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• Friday, July 17, from 17:00 to 19:00
• Friday, July 17, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Why'd I Drink So Much

A stellar band from Ottawa, Monkey Junk includes established guitarists Tony D. and Steve Marriner along with drummer Matt Sobb. The band came in third at the 2009 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Tiger In Your Tank, their first CD, is being praised by the blues media. They will also be opening up for JJ Grey & Mofro.

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• Sunday, July 12, from 19:30 to 20:30
• Sunday, July 12, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Tiger in your Tank

Although the mythical singer’s biography was recently published, she continues to perform and further develop her story. Since the release of Mississippi Rolling Stone highlighting her Delta origins, she has added yet another chapter to her long and celebrated career that had her working alongside Boule Noire, Luc Plamondon, Angelo Finaldi and of course, the Rolling Stones. The blues, magnificently matured.

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• Saturday, July 18, from 20:30 to 22:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Just Wanna Make Love To You

Loiselle has a strong passion for the music of America’s back roads like bluegrass, country, folk and blues, and his slogan “From Jimmy Rogers to Jimmie Rodgers” says it all. His DVD – Fingerpicking Blues et Traditionnel – shows him to be also a knowledgeable teacher. With his four-piece band, he performs his rare finds for our greater pleasure.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 15:30 to 17:00
• Saturday, July 18, from 22:30 to 23:59

Deslauriers is a three-time Lys Blues nominee and has been performing in a successful duo with Dawn Tyler Watson for the past several years. He will be turning up the volume with his own bluesier band – a trio including Gregoire Morency on bass and young veteran Sam Harrisson on drums. Good news: a new CD is in the making!

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Wednesday, July 15, from 22:30 to 23:59

The five musicians who founded Pilgrim a mere two years ago carry considerable musical baggage. Jean Pellerin has taken his Dobro guitar throughout the United States, Eric Goulet is an experienced singer and songwriter (Les Chiens, Monsieur Mono), etc. Mostly drawing from America’s back roads, Pilgrim artfully blends Delta blues, folk and country.

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• Saturday, July 18, from 14:00 to 15:00

The trio from the Upper Laurentians won top honours at the Festiblues up-and-comers competition in 2008 and returns to Tremblant with a healthy dose of blues, soul and rock to share with the public. Influenced by artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Clapton, they have finished recording their first album which will be released shortly – watch for it!

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• Friday, July 10, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 11, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Saturday, July 18, from 20:30 to 22:00

Since Little Charlie Baty’s semi-retirement from touring, singer and harmonica player Rick Estrin has taken over the torch of the legendary California band that has been around for over 25 years. With Norwegian guitarist Kid Andersen, the Nightcats are now touring their new CD titled Twisted on Alligator Records.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 21:00 to 22:30

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Back From The Dead

The singer and harmonica player has been playing for over 15 years, receiving four Lys Blues Awards in 2007 and six nominations in 2008. His fourth CD, Back To The Roots With Friends, spans one hundred years of blues through all of its styles, from traditional to swing. With his warm voice and sharp stage suits, his effect is instantaneous!

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• Saturday, July 18, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Sunday, July 19, from 19:30 to 20:30

Listen to the artist

• Listen to A place to be

Now that he is 18, the fiery guitarist had just one request for festival organizers – to play in bars! In addition to opening for Jimmy Thackery, he will illuminate the festival’s nights with a new show drawing from his third, heavier sounding CD. Influenced by the British Invasion of the 60’s, Paquette was a Maple Blues Award nominee and has won a number of Lys Blues Awards.

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Wednesday, July 15, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Thursday, July 16, from 19:00 to 20:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Schoolboy Blues

Rob Lutes’ fourth album, Truth & Fiction released earlier this year has proven once again the Montreal singer-songwriter’s great talent. His folk-blues gems and sandy voice have won over Europe and are even more compelling on stage. Performing as a trio and duo with guitarist Rob McDonald and a stand-up bassist, he is writing a new chapter at Tremblant.

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• Monday, July 13, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Tuesday, July 14, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Tuesday, July 14, from 17:00 to 17:45

These three 14 year-old cousins from Pierrefonds won the 2008 Lys Blues Award for Revelation of the Year and were runners-up at the 2007 Galaxie Rising Star contest at Tremblant. Runaway Slide return to Tremblant with a mix of blues classics and original material, proving their mettle in the big leagues!

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• Sunday, July 19, from 16:00 to 16:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Runnaway Slide

Alone on guitar, the musician from NDG in Montreal is adept in a wide range of styles. He is a walking jukebox and a storyteller à la Tom Waits. With his deep and strong voice, he will lead his band in a folk-rock, soul, blues and funk concert that will invariably become a jam, both in acoustic and electric formats.

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• Monday, July 13, from 17:00 to 17:45
• Tuesday, July 14, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Tuesday, July 14, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Wednesday, July 15, from 14:00 to 14:45

Though still young, Kitchener guitarist Shawn Kellerman is veteran with an impressive track record. Hundreds of concerts in over 20 countries. And many collaborations, including with Lucky Peterson – who plays on his new CD Blues Without A Home – Bobby Rush, Mel Brown, etc. Performing as a power trio, Kellerman redefines modern blues with his uncanny skill and electrifying playing.

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• Thursday, July 16, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Thursday, July 16, from 22:30 to 23:59

Listen to the artist

• Listen to Blues Without a Home

The daughter of the late Johnny Copeland is in high demand on the blues circuit. With several Blues Awards and a Grammy nomination under her belt, the legitimate successor of Koko Taylor and Etta James has released a new CD called Never Going Back (Telarc), crafted in collaboration with John Medeski and Marc Ribot (Tom Waits). Shemekia has recently returned from a Bluzapalooza tour in Iraq and Kuwait and will be performing on a veritable Ladies Night, sharing the Wednesday blues programming with Mavis Staples who will be on Place St-Bernard.

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 20:30 to 22:00

The concept: two Maritimes guitarists from different generations come together as one on stage. All the makings for some magic on slide guitar and pedal steel, with hot licks and inspired exchanges. The new show is premiering this summer at the festival. The Maritimes connection.

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• Sunday, July 19, from 17:00 to 17:45

This Summit of the best guitarists on hand at the Festival was originally started by the duo of Dawn Tyler Watson and Paul Deslauriers and has since become a highlight of each Festival edition. Following their own performances throughout the day, Chris Smitter, Shane Murphy, Matt Anderson, Steve Strongman and Rob Lutes with his trio will come together for some of the best acoustic sparring around, culminating with the arrival on stage of the Watson-Deslauriers duo.

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• Monday, July 13, from 19:30 to 22:30

Born and raised in South Bend, Indiana one hour outside Chicago, Denny Snyder mostly plays in Quebec, which he now calls home. The guitarist and singer will be presenting his eighth CD, his first 100% Quebec product, produced by harmonica player Rick L. Blues. Denny’s solo performance will be perfectly showcased on the small MétéoMédia stage.

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Wednesday, July 15, from 17:00 to 17:45

The co-founders of the Stephen Barry Band in 1975 have rubbed elbows with the giants: John Lee Hooker, Big Mama Thornton, Pinetop Perkins and Bo Diddley. In addition to the band’s seven albums, they've worked with Suzie Arioli, Kate & Anna McGarrigle and Ray Bonneville, among many others. One stand-up bass, one guitar, two voices and experience aplenty.

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Tuesday, July 14, from 17:00 to 19:00

Listen to the artist

• Listen to All Along The Watchtower

A scoop at the Festival: Steve Hill is going back to Blues! The massively talented guitarist from Trois-Rivières is going back to his roots after a foray into rock and concerts with Eric Lapointe and Michel Pagliaro. After emerging in the mid-90’s, Hill reunites with his buddy from that era, drummer Sam Harrison, to present a new band that includes Jean-Sébastien Chouinard from Les Respectables on guitar. A singular opportunity to hear the songs that will be featured on his new blues album, due for release shortly. The happening of the summer!

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 19:30 to 20:30

A return guest, Steve Strongman will be featured this year in three different concerts. The Hamilton singer-songwriter has just launched a second blues CD called Blues in Colour. Strongman will be showcasing his multiple talents on string instruments at this year’s Acoustic Summit in addition to performing with his own band and in the Tribute to the Three Kings.

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• Sunday, July 12, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Monday, July 13, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Monday, July 13, from 22:30 to 23:59
• Tuesday, July 14, from 17:00 to 17:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to That's What she does

Rising to fame after recording three albums with the Rolling Stones including the famous solo on Miss You, the Harlem harmonica player also performed and recorded with Muddy Waters, Frank Zappa, Bob Dylan and Willie Dixon. Sugar Blue’s intense, precise, melodic and creative style have set him apart as a visionary. His last CD – Code Blue – was released in 2007.

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• Thursday, July 16, from 19:30 to 20:30

The Festival’s international mission is well served with this trio coming all the way from Poland. Two young and charismatic boogie woogie piano players and one drummer challenge each other to fast and furious musical exchanges in a flurry of blues, piano boogie and Polish songs. The result is astounding. This is their first tour in North America.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 16:00 to 16:45

The major blues and soul star Robert Cray is coming to Tremblant for a single exclusive performance! First breaking through in 1986 with his classic Strong Persuader and the song Smoking Gun, Cray’s gripping voice and refined guitar work on the Stratocaster has won him five Grammy Awards and eleven nominations! Now 56, he has played with the likes of B.B. King, the Rolling Stones, Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry and John Lee Hooker. In 2008, he was invited to the Crossroads Festival in Chicago organized by none other than Eric Clapton, who asked Cray to join him on his recent tour. Robert Cray will be treating us to selections from his latest album Live From Across The Pond and will be joined on stage by the legendary guitarist from Chicago, Hubert Sumlin. The stars couldn’t be more blissfully aligned to mark the midway point of this 16th Festival edition.

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• Tuesday, July 14, from 20:30 to 22:00

Without a doubt one of Canada’s best guitarists, Tony D has been an icon of the Ottawa blues scene for the past 20 years. Out of his many projects, such as Monkey Junk, this solo show is definitely worth checking out as from it has come a new CD – his eighth – where he reveals a whole new dimension and delves into many different styles, from Delta blues to flamenco!

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• Thursday, July 16, from 15:00 to 15:45
• Thursday, July 16, from 17:00 to 17:45

Winner of the Favourite Newcomer award by the programming committee in 2008, this trio of young musicians from Kansas City are returning to a won over audience with high expectations! Winners of the International Blues Challenge (IBC) in Memphis and the Albert King Award last year, the three members of the Schnebelen family added a new album to their discography: May I Be Excused. The Molson Stage is the place to be on July 12.

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• Saturday, July 11, from 19:00 to 20:00
• Sunday, July 12, from 17:00 to 17:45

Listen to the artist

• Listen to May I Be Excused

Bill Homan, a.k.a. Watermelon Slim is at once a brilliant harmonica player, a unique guitarist and an unparalleled storyteller who has garnered the respect of his peers. Both modern and traditional, he reinvents the genre by working the raw material and putting his stamp on it. He has reaped a whopping 17 Blues Award nominations in four years! His No Paid Holidays tour makes a stop at Tremblant for two solo shows. Don’t miss this treat!

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• Wednesday, July 15, from 16:00 to 16:45
• Thursday, July 16, from 14:00 to 14:45
• Thursday, July 16, from 16:00 to 16:45