Canada’s premier band for all-Canadian music, the TRUE NORTH BAND now has its own online presence: www.truenorthband.ca. This incredible lineup of talent, assembled specifically to meet the needs of Canadian-themed events everywhere, now has its own website so you can read about the idea behind the group, check out bios of individual members, and listen to audio demos, both vocal and instrumental. This “all-star” lineup of Toronto’s most in-demand musicians for corporate and special events is destined to become Canada’s #1 band for events with a Canadian theme, identity, or flair.  Event planners no longer have to choose between Celtic, Country, French, Folk or Pop when trying to choose Canadian musical entertainment: the TRUE NORTH BAND is the only band in the country who can do it ALL, and do it exceedingly well!

Paul has been extremely busy in the early part of 2008 producing electronic accompaniments, rehearsing and performing with Theatre Francais de Toronto’s new production “Et si on chantait…”in his role as Musical Director. The show celebrates 40 years of French theatre in Toronto while featuring songs that highlight happiness, past, present and future. The show recently received a glowing review in the Toronto Star (Saturday April 28/08), receiving 3 of 4 stars. The show runs until May 10, with some shows featuring translated surtitles so you can follow the song lyrics in English! The show is running at the Canadian Stage Company’s Berkeley Street Theatre (upstairs) at 26 Berkeley Street, Toronto.  For more info visit www.theatrefrancais.com or call 1-800-819-4981 for tickets. A bientot!

Lam-Chops Music Group is proud to announce the launch of our newly-redesigned website, revamped specifically to help you, the client, get the information you need to make an informed decision on a live music purchase FASTER than ever. We think our “Bands and Groups” page will have you listening to demos, perusing pictures, and reading descriptions at an amazing pace. We know how busy you are, and how entertainment is just one of many “To-Do” items on your list, but it is a very important one, so we would like to help. We’re proud of our new site, but we would like your feedback, so we can make it even better!

Paul Lamoureux,

President, Lam-Chops Music Group

What a summer! -Part 2.  The mini-tour (July 11-29) of B.C. folk festivals with African guitarist Donne Roberts  was filled with warm memories, both musical and personal. Everywhere we went, Donne’s “Malagasi Soul” music was very well received, and we were made to feel special by all of our hosts. From the touristy and scenic surroundings of Harrison Hot Springs to the unpoiled majestic beauty of Bella Coola, to the incredibly hospitable and accommodating folks in Prince George, our trip was fairly short but very sweet, and a good time was had by all. We also met some terrific musicians from all across this fair land including Jorge Miguel (flamenco guitarist), Bobs and Lolo (children’s entertainers), Watermelon Slim (Oklahoma), the Paperboyz (Vancouver) and Corb Lund (from my hometown of Edmonton, Alberta). I’d like to thank the other members of Donne’s band for being such a great buch of human beings to travel with: Tom Sertsis (bass), Celina Carroll (vocal and percussion), and our “heartbeat” Kwanza (percussion and MC!)

Nobody knows what next summer will bring, but this was one that will resonate with the brilliant colours normally reserved for younger years. I love my job!

Paul

Graduation time is upon us at all educational institutions this Spring and Lam-Chops Music Group will be providing music for both the University of Toronto at Scarborough on June 11, as well as the George Brown College Convocations at the Hummingbird Centre. Spread over 3 days, these “mini jazz concerts” preceding each GBC grad ceremony have become almost a tradition for us, since this will be our fifth year in a row. It’s a great gig, and one we look forward to every spring. Many thanks to Colleen Walker from Catered Affare for starting the concept and Krystyna Randell from George Brown College for continuing the tradition.

I’m having a blast out here in Edmonton, my home town, playing in the pit orchestra for the Mayfield Dinner Theatre’s production of “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes”. The cast is extremely talented, and this is my first time playing in my home town since moving to Toronto 11 years ago, so needless to say I’m having many happy reunions with my musician friends and relatives. I’ll be back in Toronto on June 11, in time for Graduation Season and several other engagements. Many thanks to Van Wilmott and the staff at the Mayfield Inn for welcoming me back home!