Roxy Raves
Stevie B.
Monday, September 29 2008
Nathan Tinkham - now that he’s off the island I can talk about him. Most Gabriolans know Nathan as a fine local musician, less know of his world class playing in famous bands and recording projects to numerous to mention. Up to now I thought his best work was with Ian Tyson, Great Western Orchestra, Cindy Church and the Belfast String Band. But his latest, may well be his best yet. “Nathan Tinkham sings Wilf Carter” is an absolute joy from beginning to end - I’ve almost worn it out in just two days. I have a perma-grin on my face from all the wonderful songs, sounds and stories on the album. Wilf Carter is an almost forgotten national treasure from the Canadian music scene of the 1930’s and 40’s. His music is much in the vein of Jimmy Rogers, Hank Snow and Marty Robbins. Nathan is now in Nova Scotia on the first leg of his Wilf Carter Tribute Tour and hopefully he’ll gift Gabriola with a concert when he gets back. Wilf wrote and performed songs of hobos riding the rails and cowboys riding the trails. Much in the vein of Woody Guthrie he was a genuine man of the people. There is a special joy to this music, no tear in my beer hurtin stuff here - it’s life reaffirming and invigorating. If any album deserves a Juno this is it - Wilf Carter songs, Nathan Tinkam’s exquisite singing and playing, wonderful song selection and extraordinary sound - it’s all aces. If you buy only one CD this year make it this one - hell, the song Big Rock Candy Mountain is worth the price of admission alone - you can thank me later. Meanwhile back at the Roxy
Tuesday, 7 pm, A Hole in the Head (1959) - Frank Capra, Frank Sinatra and the Kid, Eddie Hodges make for a winning combination especially when topped off with the Oscar winning song “High Hopes.” Tuesday comedy might lives on at the Roxy.
Wednesday, 8 pm, Gabriola Cine Club presents - another provocative alternative film that’s sure to stimulate your grey matter and tickle your sensibilities. As usual new members are welcome ($10 covers all the club’s films in the calendar year) so bring some snacks to share… doors open at 7:30 pm to meet, greet and eat!
Thursday, 7 pm, All the Kings Men (1949) - The original and by far the best film version of what really is Huey Long’s Louisiana political whirlwind career. 1949 Academy awards for Best picture, Best Actor (Broderick Crawford) and Best Supporting Actress (Mercedes McCambridge) make this a powerful political film that’s hard to forget. Not really a film noir but a very special film night nonetheless.
Friday, 7 pm - 8:30, Explorers of the Infinite - Maria Coffey reads from her new tome “Explorers of the Infinite” a study of the mindset that sends extreme adventurers on their path. Author of ten previous books, some children’s stories, but mostly adventure tales, British Columbia’s own Maria Coffey is presented free to all by the Gabriola Public Library and The Roxy.
Saturday Noon Matinee, A Night at the Opera (1930) - The Marxs Brothers at their best - need I say more? Bring the kids to introduce them to the Marx Brothers and bring yourself to remind you of their genius! You’ll be glad you did.
Saturday, October 4th, 7:30 pm, Shilo Z plus Organic Lettuce in Concert - A lively night of humour and music. Tickets $10 at Artworks. Roxy doors open 7 pm.
Sunday, October 5th, 7:30 pm, Jez Lowe in Concert - An amazing award winning folksinger from Northumberland, UK. A rare treat, as he doesn’t get to tour the Gulf Islands very often. Check out his music at www.jexlowe.com. Tickets $15. Sign up list at Raszzberry’s Café.
Coming soon to The Roxy
Tony Wilson, The Message, coco love alcorn, and more. Contact Stephen for Roxy rental info at theroxy@shaw.ca. May the gods be with you.
See you next week.
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