Mark your calendars for October 20th as Hamilton gears up for a night of blues-rock like no other, featuring Bend It Like Beck, Paul Reddick, and Matty Simpson at Mills Hardware.
Originally slated to open for Steve Strongman at Bridgeworks, this dynamic gig has taken an unexpected yet thrilling turn, with Bend It Like Beck now headlining the evening. With a lineup that boasts some of the region’s most revered musicians, the show promises to be an electrifying experience.
When word got out that Steve Strongman had to step down from the bill, it left a big pair of boots to fill. Yet, Bend It Like Beck didn’t hesitate to step up and take the lead, moving the event to Hamilton's iconic Mills Hardware venue. For many music lovers, this change will undoubtedly turn out to be a win. With Paul Reddick, known for his deep connection to roots and blues music, still on the bill, and Matty Simpson adding his soulful vocals to the mix, the night will surely blend rich musical traditions with fresh, exhilarating performances.
For those unfamiliar, Bend It Like Beck is a relatively new yet incredibly tight-knit collective, blending blues, rock, and improvisational jam-band energy into a seamless live experience. The band is fronted by Frank Koren a musician with a deep-rooted presence in the Hamilton music scene. His musical journey has been as varied as it is inspiring. Known for backing his wife Kim Koren on her country-rock albums and touring North America with tribute bands like Epic Eagles, Koren has developed a mastery over a broad spectrum of styles. Add to this his regular appearances with Classic Albums Live, where he faithfully recreates rock history’s greatest records, and you have an artist whose versatility knows no bounds.
Partnering with Koren on this project is Chris Wheeler, a name that carries weight in jazz and blues circles, partly due to his renowned uncle, jazz trumpeter Kenny Wheeler. Chris, however, is carving his own legacy. Best known for his work with the jam band Golden Feather, Wheeler also leads The Coachmen during their regular blues matinees at The Coach and Lantern in Ancaster and lends his talents to local rock group Doctor Tongue. His eclectic background adds depth and flair to Bend It Like Beck’s sound, blending seamlessly with Koren's blues-rock energy.
Chris Wheeler comes from a musical family and is a graduate of Mohawk College Applied Music program, some of the acts he’s played with are Hailee Rose and Dave Rave, Golden Feather and Bend It Like Beck and Sharon Musgrave’s Soulcake. Chris was a music director for Tony and Tina’s Wedding at Second City. As well as in the house band for CHCH’s Tiny Talent Time reboot in 2014. Chris has been a band leader and music director for Theatre Ancaster.
Frank Koren began rocking to Kiss songs just before high school. Over the next 30 plus years his musical styles have included rock, r n b, blues, country, alternative and Americana along with some fusion projects. He recorded his own album, Red Chair, in 2015 and has played on countless records over the years. Some include Tom Wilson, Harrison Kennedy, Kim Koren, Colin Amey, All Good Children, Top Pocket and Marta Pacek. Frank is also an in-demand live player with Classic Albums Live, Epic Eagles Tribute and an often called on sub for others.
A few years back Chris and Frank talked about the idea of a Jeff Beck night; playing some Jeff Beck music and music in the style of Mr. Beck.
After the great guitarist’s death a fundraising show was put together and Bend It Like Beck was formed. That band, consisting of Chris, Frank, Andrew Marshall on bass, Matt Burns on drums and Miles Evans-Branagh on keys had so much fun they began to look for other shows just to get a chance to play together again. Some recordings have since been done so BILB is now an original music project as well.
When it came time to record their debut LP, Bend It Like Beck opted for a raw, organic approach that mirrors the spontaneity and energy of their live shows. They headed to Boxcar Sound Studio in Hamilton, recording live off the floor to capture that magical interaction between musicians when they’re locked in together. Rather than relying on meticulously arranged compositions, the band worked from loosely sketched-out song outlines, allowing the music to unfold naturally in the studio. It’s the same approach they bring to the stage, where improvisation and interplay take center stage, creating an experience that’s as unpredictable as it is thrilling.
Matty Simpson, who sings the only vocal track on their LP, will also join the band for their October 20th performance. Simpson, a talented singer and guitarist in his own right, brings his distinctive voice and energy to the group, making this particular show even more special. Expect him to step up to the mic for a few songs throughout the night, adding yet another layer to the already rich and diverse performance.
Sharing the bill with Bend It Like Beck is none other than Paul Reddick, a man often referred to as a “blues poet.” Reddick’s music delves deep into the roots of blues, infusing the genre with a sense of storytelling and emotional depth that few can match. His harmonica playing is legendary, and his ability to captivate an audience with just a few notes is nothing short of remarkable.
Reddick’s inclusion on the bill ensures that the night will be a masterclass in blues tradition. His presence adds a touch of gravitas, reminding us all of the timeless power of the blues to connect, uplift, and inspire. For fans of the genre, it’s a rare opportunity to see a true master at work, performing alongside some of the best musicians in the region.
It’s impossible to talk about a show like this without giving a nod to Hamilton’s thriving music scene. Long known for its gritty rock and roll roots, the city has become a hub for diverse musical talent, from blues and roots to indie and punk. Venues like Mills Hardware and Bridgeworks are keeping the spirit of live music alive, offering spaces for both emerging and established artists to connect with audiences in an intimate setting.
Bend It Like Beck’s decision to headline this show speaks volumes about the state of live music in Hamilton. It’s a city where musicians can come together, share the stage, and create something truly unique. Whether you’re a long-time fan of blues-rock or someone looking for an unforgettable live music experience, October 20th at Mills Hardware is a date you won’t want to miss.
As Bend It Like Beck prepares to take the stage, backed by an all-star band and supported by the likes of Paul Reddick and Matty Simpson, one thing is certain: this will be a night of music you won’t soon forget. From bluesy riffs to soulful vocals and everything in between, the night promises to be a celebration of all that makes live music so special. So, grab your tickets, head down to Mills Hardware, and prepare to be blown away by the sheer talent on display.
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