Tracy K

PRESS RELEASE - Blues Duo preserves authenticity in new recording

From the top of blues highway 61 in remote northwest Ontario comes an album whose roots stretch as far south as the highway itself. Canned Heat by Thunder Bay's "Blues Duo" was named after the album's first track, written by blues forefather Tommy Johnson. It introduces an unknown bluesman guilty of preserving authenticity, paired with an award winning performer. The raspy and well-controlled torch vocals and harmonica of Tracy K are sure to please her dedicated fans and draw in many more new ones alongside secret weapon of the north (no, not the black fly) Jamie 'Snakeman' Steinhoff. Steeped in blues tradition, not a lot of people know about Jamie, but ones who do will be quick to boast his talents. From the foot-stompin' title track, to laid back front porch blues to rollin' and rompin' rags, Canned Heat weaves five traditional acoustic folk blues gems with five contemporary acoustic originals about love, longing, stealing apples, and joy. The tracks are laden with Steinhoff 's masterful fingerstyle and slide guitar work of Piedmont and Delta styles, with the addition of banjo and his gritty bass vocals. Tracy K's skills shine with melody-rich harmonica in the acoustic tradition of the early blues harp masters and confident, seasoned vocals.
Recorded at Thunder Bay's cutting edge 'Dining Room Studios' by award winning engineer David Angell, much care was taken to preserve the raw edge of the music, sparsely arranged and gently produced by Tracy K. Guest musicians include David Angell on bass, Stuart Green on snare drum, and Tracy K's daughter Emily Kohne on the last track singing harmony. CD release tour dates in Ontario include Branch #5 Legion in Thunder Bay, April 15; Fromagerie Elgin in Sudbury, May 13 (tickets: 705.626.2368) ; 'The Cafe' in South River, May 14; and 'Hugh's Room' in Toronto May 16 (tickets: 416.531.6604). ?Visit tracyk.ca or facebook for more.
"Tracy K and Jamie Steinhoff performed for THEOP's cabaret in January, 2010. Their easy rapport with the audience, the amazing harmonica playing and the terrific, gutsy renditions of blues classics as well as their own compositions captivated the audience and made for a great evening out."?- Katherine Myers, THEOP, Deep River, Ontario, 2010
"Thunder Bay audiences are most familiar with Tracy's husky vocals and wailing harmonica in the cabaret-style show that she does with her Right Hand Man Jamie "Snakeman" Steinhoff picking and sliding on dobro and acoustic guitar. Their masterful performances of early blues ring out with an authentic vintage-era feel." ?- Ken Wright, Thunder Bay Blues Society 2008
"Now, I don't want to say Tracy K's harmonica is haunted, but I don't really have any other explanation as to how it is a million voices seem to be trapped in that tiny instrument. Tracy K surrounds herself with equally great musicians who help her swing from acoustic music to the grind of electric blues. It was my pleasure to record Tracy for national broadcast on Canada Live, as I hope the rest of the country discovers her talent live on stage."? - Alan Neal, host, BANDWIDTH, CANADA LIVE (CBC RADIO ONE & TWO) 2008

TRACY K & JAMIE STEINHOFF
acoustic-traditional-contemporary-original
BLUES DUO - BIO
When Tracy asked Jamie what they should name their upcoming cd, he said "Brian". A humble, funny-guy by nature and chef by trade, when he's not cookin' in the kitchen he's cookin' on guitar! It didn't take long before his secret was found out, and Ms. K pulled him outta the kitchen and stuck him on the stage. Now they cook together, in the kitchen and onstage. Known internationally for wailing on harmonica and beltin' out the blues with her Right Hand Band, Tracy K's desire to form a specific kind of acoustic duo was fulfilled after moving to Thunder Bay, Ontario in 2004 where she met Jamie "Snakeman" Steinhoff. Woodshedding for over twenty years, his dedication to folk & blues from the 1920s to 40s is revealed in his swampy Delta slide and Piedmont fingerstyle guitar work and gritty soulful vocals. The duo's steamy blues and lively rags, contemporary originals and vintage gems in the blues-folk tradition make up their sound. The acoustic tracks from Tracy K's cds find a home in this show, amidst song choices unheard in her electric set, and a couple of Jamie's clever originals. On stage, Jamie has a great knowledge of early blues history which he will gladly share with inquiring minds, and Tracy remains the consummate Ukrainian hostess with that small-town prairie hospitality. Jamie recorded on both of Tracy K's award winning songs which are part of their repertoire, and the duo has released their debut recording "Canned Heat". ??Gracing stages for about two decades in many guises, Tracy K settled into a solo career as a recording artist and touring musician in 2000. Since then, Tracy K was selected to perform at the Toronto Blues Society's 'Blues Summit', their 'Harmonica - Sarah French Publishing

“Fans have been asking for the return of Tracy K since she levelled the joint during her 2003 appearance at the festival. Her blues harmonica style and Joplin-esque vocals make her appearance a must.“- Gerry Krochak, The Leader-Post, 2007

“Opening for James Cotton was Tracy K whose performance confirmed why they were the most popular act at the first bluesfest ” - Ken Wright, Thunder Bay Blues Society

“Tracy K was outstanding!....she injected a high level of energy with grit, an integral part of her show ”
- B.Bedesky, CBC Womens Blues Revue for canadianblues.ca

“...an impressive harmonica player, with a voice that commands your attention. Add her songwriting, her versatility, and her on-stage charisma and you've got someone special.”
- www.canadianblues.ca

“Tracy K wowed the crowd with her passion for blues. Definitely an act to catch. She had everyone cheering and calling for more.“ - Rich Benson, Minneapolis Women’s Blues Fest

"Tracy K is what music festivals are all about " - Thunder Bay Chronicle Journal

"Great voice, a very hot edged vocal performance in a variety of her own and cover songs...a sizzling vocal powerhouse, with style and an obvious ability to move an audience. Tracy K with her blues harp rocked the Rainbow” - Jim Roy, Ottawa’s blues, jazz & swing guide

"If you didn't see her on stage you would swear it was James Cotton and Janis Joplin. Tracy's vocals and harp put Blues fans in a trance evidenced by the crowds' intense applause and dancing till the next a.m.” - Bob Peech, Brandon Blues Society

”Stellar performances by Tracy K and demonstrated that the century old vocal tradition of the blues is thriving.”- Thunder Bay Blues Fest

“Tracy K first got my attention last year with her Janis Joplin voice. This year she’s grown in power as a performing artist. The voice, the harp, the guitar, the writing - this girl is in her prime...she was glowing!” - Rebecca West, MN Blues on Stage

"... a magnificent voice, raw power and passion tempered by a tender fragility ... she's mesmerizing ...
approaching the sublime." - John Taylor, Blues On Stage, Minneapolis

“Most noteworthy by far was blues harp wonder Tracy K’s soulful, raw harp deliveries.....a seasoned harp technique that effortlessly wowed and impressed the audience....a gut-wrenching harp solo....sheer harp joy... ” - J.Curtis TBS/CBC Women’s Blues Revue

“ She does it all and does it well...an excellent show!” - John Hoavenaars, CHRW London, Ont.

“Tracy K and Rita Chiarelli are wonderfully powerful musicians. I hope someone books them into the Twin Cities. Their performances were all-out and soulful.“- Rebecca West, MNBlues on Stage

"The Flashbacks were one groovin' band, especially that chick who did all the Janis Joplin tunes.”
- Winnipeg Free Press

" SHE IS AN ENTERTAINMENT" - Randal Mcilroy, from interview in Style Manitoba

" ... as far as vocal stylists go,Tracy K may be one of the best and most exciting of the lot ”
- J. Monk, The Scene - as credited

"Now, I don't want to say Tracy K's harmonica is haunted. But I don't really have any other explanation as to how it is a million voices seem to be trapped in that tiny instrument... and Tracy seems to know how to exorcise them in front of wowed crowds every time I see her play. Whether it's the lonely voice of someone looking for love, or the angry squeal of someone bent on vengeance, she can find just the right tone and voice to let loose. Tracy's a worthwhile talent all on her own, whether she's showing why she's Thunder Bay's Mistress of The Mouthharp.... but luckily, Tracy K seems to surround herself with equally great blues musicians who can help her swing from acoustic old-time music to the grind of electric blues. It was my pleasure to invite Tracy K to represent Thunder Bay at the national 2007 'Canada Reads, Ontario Rocks!' event, where she composed music based on the novel Icefields... a heart-wrenchingly emotive tune that had some audience members in tears.... and it was again my pleasure to record Tracy for national broadcast on Canada Live... as I hope the rest of the country discovers her talent live on stage. Again, I don't KNOW that there are ghosts trapped in that harmonica. All I know is I'm glad I've been there when she lets them out to play."

- Alan Neal, host, BANDWIDTH (CBC RADIO ONE), CANADA LIVE (CBC RADIO TWO) - CBC Host Alan Neal

Tracy K Old, New, Borrowed & Blues Indie/Festival
The first runner up in the Talent Search this year, Thunder Bay’s Tracy K returns home leaving us with this delightful CD to remember her by. Co-produced by Jack de Keyzer, herself and her Right Hand Band, her strong vocals, harp & acoustic guitar grace a program of originals plus two covers. The Right Hand Band compliments her perfectly: Tony Desmarteau is the guitarist, Vaughan Poyser, the bassist and Ty Rogers, the drummer. Jack de Keyzer did not leave his guitar at home. Her songs are very well written, a seamless blend of blues, country and rock - not a surprise, perhaps, given the Thunder Bay/Winnipeg focus. “C U Again” is a funky workout with a catchy chorus. “Cruisin’”, with its Santana-ish lead guitar part, is getting some radio play. “Stop! Wait A Minute” keeps that “C U Again” groove going with some nice harp work and a strong vocal – it’s a sharp-eyed vignette from the dance floor. “Here All Along” is another highlight, with strummed guitars over a driving drum pattern. Tracy K’s CD should be at a store near you. If it isn’t, you can go to www.tracyk.ca and find out more about Tracy. There are audio samples of her songs there too. May she return soon.
- John Valenteyn, Maple Blues Magazine, August, 2007 - John Valentyn

* Box 17 Group 368 RR#3 Winnipeg, MB R3C2E7
phone 204 757.4791 email terhoch@shaw.ca cell 204 781.4415
TO: Whomever this may concern April 9, 2008
RE: Tracy K and Jamie “Snakeman” Steinhoff
As a concert promoter and event producer, we consider artists from any number of
perspectives.
Are they great at what they do best? Do they deliver, as advertised, on stage? Will they
give of themselves and do everything reasonable to make the show memorable for as
large an audience as anticipated? Do they work well with everyone involved, including
other artists, techs, media, and most importantly, their audience?
When these questions are asked, considering Tracy and Jamie, the answers all come
back …..YES!
I am pleased to add my voice to the recognition they have already received.
Yes, I declare I am a fan. That is part of what motivates me, as a promoter, to book Tracy
to audiences of 30,000 people; and most recently Tracy and Jamie, to an intimate
evening of 200. (The Assiniboine Park Conservatory: January 26, 2008)
They delivered. They brought a passionate charm to their blues tradition. They know
well what it takes to move an audience. And once again they did. It was another great
night.
Without reservation, I encourage all to consider any opportunity to have them play.
They deserve to be seen and heard by many, many, more; and as often as we can.
Respectfully submitted,
Marvin Terhoch
President - M.A. Terhoch

Blues Singer and Harmonica Player TRACY K and her Right Hand Band's album "Old, New, Borrowed and Blue" placed 7th on the "Blind Lemon, Top Twenty Canadian Blues Albums of 2007" special on radio station CHMR last night! The campus and community station is located in St. John's NL. Their listeners and also subscribers to the national Mapleblue-L email list voted online over the past few weeks and the show was heard live over the internet on Monday, Jan. 7th. - Terry Parsons

Tracy K – Old, New, Borrowed & Blues – Independent
Written by: John Taylor

The title of Winnipeg-based Tracy K’s second outing suggests a grab bag of sorts. But while her grasp may be far-reaching, there’s nothing piecemeal about the project – this is a cohesive and carefully considered collection with a distinct musical vision.
Tracy is that rarest of creatures, a woman harmonica player (a species that can seemingly be counted on the thumbs of one hand), acquitting herself admirably on the tin sandwich as well as acoustic guitar. It’s her vocal prowess, though, that stands out – blessed with a voice that combines sandpapery roughness with extraordinary power, she proves herself an exceptionally expressive singer, able to deliver lines convincingly as well with a soft whisper as a rafter-raising shout.
She also composed all but a pair here, and while most of her tunes exhibit fairly obvious influences, she manages to mix things up enough to sound original rather than derivative. There’s a Jimmy Reed feel, for example, at the beginning of the disc’s opener, “Broken & Blue,” but Tracy quickly puts her own stamp on things with impassioned vocals and acoustic harp. “C U Again” is a funky workout with scratchy harmonica and some nice lead guitar that would no doubt fill dance floors. But once we get to Tad Robinson’s “Sweet Serenity,” here given all the breezy bounce it needs, things just get better and better. Tracy is positively Joplinesque on “Rollin’ With The Changes,” her passionate delivery utterly spine-tingling. “Stop! Wait A Minute” sounds a bit like the old Dinah Washington/Brook Benton duet, “Baby, You Got What It Takes,” but again, Tracy may borrow but doesn’t resort to imitation. “Shine” is a roots-rocker with lyrics that display a genuine folk wisdom, and “Lucky Girl” is pure delight, its irresistibly catchy melody supporting sweetly innocent and uncommonly optimistic lyrics. “Here All Along,” too, another rootsy rocker, reveals an appealing depth, showing a thoughtful side to Tracy’s songwriting. A cover of Willie Dixon’s “Spoonful,” however, isn’t quite as successful; despite some fine harmonica on the signature riff, it’s a little too rocked-out, the simplicity that forms the bedrock of the blues lost in a too-busy arrangement. It’s not bad by any means, but as is so often the case, the somewhat over-the-top approach would work better in a live setting. By contrast, “Rock This House,” a song that would seem to cry out for a live audience, works very well on disc. The party comes to a close with a feverish climax on “File In The Sky,” a high-energy romp fuelled by gospel fervor and Tracy’s exuberant exhortations.
Performances here may not turn heads (apart from Tracy’s passionate pleading), but everything’s done quite well, with fine production courtesy of Jack de Keyzer (who’s no slouch as guest guitarist, either!). By no means a blues album, there are bluesy roots running throughout, and the varied program retains an intelligent consistency backed by a great deal of craft and care.
Recommended! - John Taylor

Green Achers of Wabigoon
P.O. Box 198, 10695 Hwy. 17
Wabigoon, Ontario
P0V 2W0
(807) 938-1804 Store
(807) 938-1823 Fax
www.greenachersofwabigoon.com
Dear Sir,
My name is John Cox and I am the owner of a music venue called Pappy’s Café and Green Achers of Wabigoon located in Wabigoon, Ontario.  We are a music venue that hosts a number of Canadian artists and other talented acts on a regular basis.  We are always very pleased to have Tracy K and Jamie Steinhoff perform at  our venue as it draws crowds from miles around.  Some fans will travel as far away as two hours to be part of the scene.  They have played at our venue on several occasions and continue to do so as often as they can while travelling to and from other  larger cities and venues.   Their exceptional talent aside, they  both have very personable  characteristics.  Wit, humour, day to day stories where audiences can relate makes the duo appealing, keeps people interested and coming back.  In short, they are an act much worthy of our support.  Please allow this letter to stand as a reference for the Blues Duo “Tracy K and Jamie “Snakeman” Steinhoff”.  As well, please feel free to contact me directly should you have any questions or simply require more insight.
Best Regards,
John Cox
President/CEO 1586845 Ont., Inc.
Green Achers of Wabigoon


To whom it may concern,
Tracy K and Jamie 'Snakeman' Steinhoff have performed at my venue on numerous occasions. Their
professionalism and stage presence was evident from initial contact to post show. The audience enjoyed
their performance and I have received positive feedback for weeks after all of their appearances. Their
'back porch' blues show is not only laden with superior technique and musicality but is approached with
an educational aspect that, I am sure, lends itself to many applications in the music industry. Both of
Tracy K's CD releases are excellent examples of her talent and musicianship. With the addition of Jamie
Steinhoff, the messages of their songs are enhanced musically and as a result are extremely
communicative to all levels of the audience. I strongly recommend attending their performances or
purchasing their recordings. They represent the best of roots music performers from Canada and I look
forward to following and supporting their careers.
Yours in Canadian Music,
Rex Csuzdi
Factory Music
Laclu Industries Ltd.
Kenora, Ontario - John Cox, Wabigoon; Rex Czudi, Kenora

Quotes
Tracy K has been promoted as an award winning blues harmonica player, and the press are quick to point out that Tracy is unique. But her tremendous voice and her ability to sing a long variety of songs, and her ability to "wow" an audience, make we wonder why she is not playing larger stages. She could play any stage with her talent.
Persons looking for the perfect musical duo should ask Tracy K & Jamie Steinhoff to their next event. Not only will they win you over with their musical talent and wide ranging repertoire, but they will leave you begging for more. You can't get get any better kitchen stompin blues. Mojo Mama must be heard live to be appreciated!
Tony's virtuosity on electric guitar was a revelation to me. The ability of this amazing musician to play any style of music, and to continuously improvise and move a standard to new levels of play, are unforgotten. If Tony is playing with Tracy, you will have an evening of live music that cannot be missed.
"I wish I had a dollar for every time I wished I had a dollar" Cal Orok, Globe and Mail Morning Smile, sometime last century.
Cal Orok Sudbury - Cal Orok

Tracy K is a mainstay on the exceptional Winnipeg Blues scene and she plays a nice harmonica. Some of the material on her second cd is straight out of the Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee school of road balladeering, and some is more contemporary.

The real treat is her voice, more in the tradition of Janis Joplin, well controlled, but gritty as a whisky-soaked hobnail. Her band is tight and not inclined to the reckless pursuit of space-filling, so it all works.

Most of these cuts are her own, with nicely varied arrangements that recall Delbert McClinton, Bonnie Raitt, Santana and traditional blues.

There are some truly swell cuts here; Rollin' with the Changes is really heartfelt; and her take on Howlin' Wolf's Spoonful is cool, interspersing the original repeating phrases with reggae-influenced drumming, some nasty distorted guitar and Tracy K wailing on harp. Plus, her voice is well suited to the material.

- Jeremy Loomes, the Edmonton Sun - Jeremy Loomes

Tracy K: Canada's First Lady Of The Blues Harp

Did you know that music and joy are represented by the same symbol in the Chinese alphabet? This is particularly important to Canadian born blues harpist and vocalist Tracy K. There is nothing more rewarding for her than the excitement and appreciation in a fan's comments, a full dance floor, giving someone reason to dream, or filling that void for them.
"When my music makes someone happy, helps them unwind, relax and have fun, it is a greater achievement and fulfillment than any award I can receive." Tracy offers.

Born and raised on the prairies in a small farm community - Beausejour, Manitoba, just 45 minutes east of Winnipeg, she has been performing since she was a child. Her earliest recollections include piano lessons and learning to play her brother's guitar.

During the early sixties, when British Rock groups stormed North American shores, she recalls her first introduction to the Blues and how she was introduced and drawn to the early recordings of Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee. The whooping fox chases for which Terry was known, was her first introduction to the harmonica.

Since then, although she played briefly with a rock group at one time in her musical career, she has built upon this her foundation for for the blues. After an eight year maternity leave, where she raised three children. she returned to music and released her first album in 2000, "Welcome to my Fantasy," a collection of original songs in the blues/roots-rock spectrum.

Steady performances and critical acclaim opened new doors for Tracy who licensed the song "Rock This House" that had she penned to a Los Angeles movie, " Scared Silent (2002)" She performed in this film with her band. She recorded three original songs for a fundraising blues compilation CD, and appeared as "singer in the band" in another L.A. film, "More Than Meets The Eye 2003," in which she again plays the singer in the band.

In 2004 Tracy K's career was forced on hiatus due to personal issues. This imposed a delay in recording her second album, but she came back swinging with her 2007 release "Old, New, Borrowed & Blues". Produced by Toronto blues great Jack de Keyzer, this release earned her international airplay and rave reviews, and featured her own solid band of five years. It is a seamless blend of blues- Chicago, Texas and Delta influences--country and rock, all finely crafted into an original contemporary sound.

Today she is recognized as one of the few female blues harmonicists in Canada, and one of the finest by any measure anywhere. For this she has garnered awards and prestigious appearances. This would include the 2003 Toronto Blues Society's Annual Harmonica Workshop; (Toronto Blues Society and CBC Saturday Night Blues) 16th Annual Women's Blues Revue; 2006 Winnipeg Blues.com Female Vocalist of the Year; 2006 Winnipeg Blues. COM Harmonica Player of the Year; 2006 Winnipeg Blues.com Electric Act of the Year nominee; Best Blues, 2007 Ontario Independent Music Awards; 2007 Toronto Blues Society Talent Search First Runner Up.

"However, the awards are all hallmarks of a great deal of hard work and time invested into my passion." she is quick to point out.




At what age were you when you decided to pursue music professionally? Do you recall the moment, or did you sense yourself drawn in that direction since you were a kid?

I first had the urge to perform when I was still a preschooler - about four years of age. I was drawn in that direction, for sure. I made up my first songs at eight years of age in a band with my cousins. I was in several theatrical performances and musicals throughout my school years, and landed a lead role for a dinner theater production while my own kids were very young. I have been a performer all of my life, and felt that a teaching position was not unlike performing, really. I am also a visual artist, and saw myself teaching art, music, and drama, and working with special needs kids. I was known as a singer in my hometown, and was called upon for the National Anthem several times. However, I made the conscious decision to pursue a music career at 25 years of age. That is when I finished my third year in the Faculty of Education, studying to become a teacher. I went to Toronto for the summer, got a taste of the music biz there, and never left.

You played for a rock band when you first started performing . Was this a decision based on peer pressure, as many kids are drawn to music enjoyed by their peers. How did this band start?

Actually, the first band was back in High School, and I was asked to join it, purely on my image. The two other male members took a chance asking me if I could sing, and as fate would have it, I answered yes. They used to watch me walk the halls in school at lunch playing air guitar and singing to an imaginary sound track. It wasn't until I moved to Toronto that I started my own band. I had been s - Dave King

Tracy K is a mainstay on the exceptional Winnipeg Blues scene and she plays a nice harmonica. Some of the material on her second cd is straight out of the Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee school of road balladeering, and some is more contemporary.

The real treat is her voice, more in the tradition of Janis Joplin, well controlled, but gritty as a whisky-soaked hobnail. Her band is tight and not inclined to the reckless pursuit of space-filling, so it all works.

Most of these cuts are her own, with nicely varied arrangements that recall Delbert McClinton, Bonnie Raitt, Santana and traditional blues.

There are some truly swell cuts here; Rollin' with the Changes is really heartfelt; and her take on Howlin' Wolf's Spoonful is cool, interspersing the original repeating phrases with reggae-influenced drumming, some nasty distorted guitar and Tracy K wailing on harp. Plus, her voice is well suited to the material.

- Jeremy Loomes, the Edmonton Sun - Jeremy Loomes

Tracy K
"What's The Rush?"
By Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro © August 2016
 
 
Just about two years ago, while writing about some of her acoustic work, this is a line I used to describe Tracy K.....
"This is old school...I'm talking Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee kind of stuff...acoustic blues at its best. Tracy K has certainly done her homework, 'cause she nails this type of stuff - vocally, musically and more importantly, mentally. Her scrappy, scratchy voice, her masterful harp skills and her intensity all excel".....
Now she's back with her fourth release - "What's the Rush?" - and although she's added a full band on some of the tracks, none of what I said back then has changed, I've just got more to add.
 
On "What's the Rush?", Tracy - on vocals, guitar and harmonica - is joined by: Jason Nowicki, Terry Barnett and Tony Desmarteau on guitar;  Leonard "Lewsh" Shaw on keys & horns; Vaughan Poyser and Nenad "Keza" Zdjelar on bass; George Demeduk and Ty Rogers on drums; Jamie "Snakeman" Steinhoff on Dobro & acoustic guitar; and Travis Haugen on organ.
 
"What Tomorrow Brings" has quite the interesting sound.  Musically, with Vaughan and George in a tight rhythm groove and Jason nailing the scorching blues guitar leads, it's easily one of the disc’s most traditional blues tracks.  On the other hand, with Tracy adding a bit of twang and sass to a whole bunch of grit and soul, I found myself enjoying the country feel all of that added to the track.
 
Everything may have "Done Gone Wrong" as a result of Tracy writing this song but on it's performance, with everyone peaking, everything's done gone damn good.  In addition to belting the hell out of the blues vocally, Tracy's doing it on the harp as well.  Also pulling double duty is Leonard, who's keyboard and horn work are equally exceptional. Throw in Jason's ferocious guitar leads and the ruthless rhythm of Vaughan and George and now you're listening to the disc’s best track.        
 
Tracy wrote this song at a festival for a workshop called "Heartstrung".  While reflecting on the meaning of the word, she decided to write the song about people she knew who fit the meaning to a T.  Here's a sample about two of the people I also happen to know....."Mick and Molli live in northern Mississippi all peace and love like a couple of hippies.  He's got seven guitars and a dog named Arrow.  Molli's real purty, straight up and narrow; she gives Mick some lip and he slips her the tongue.  Looks like these folks is... heartstrung."  The song then goes into aspects of other loving couples lives, including Ozzy and Sharon (yep, them).  Since Tracy already knows me pretty well, I'm sure that once she meets the Blewzzlady, we'll make it on the updated version of this song.  Musically, it's a party.  Nenad and Ty are rockin' the rhythm & Terry and Leonard are cranking it on guitar and piano leads.     
 
"Time Machine" is the second of the discs two acoustic duet tracks.  It's a jazzy number that features Tracy sounding quite skillful at singing a bunch of improvised, meaningless and nonsensical syllables made cool by the famous scat singers of years gone by, and Tony - the songs co-writer - doing a masterful job on acoustic guitar.    
 
The disc closes with it's only cover - a spine tingling, bone chilling, hair raising rendition of Randy Newman's "Guilty".  It features Nenad and Travis creating the heartbeat on the bass and organ and is highlighted by Tracy singing her heart out while Jamie puts on a pristine performance on acoustic guitar.  At nearly six minutes long, the recording was about ten minutes too short for me.  If you're a music teacher and the lesson is about putting your heart, soul and your mind into the song, just stop instructing and play this track.  In addition to a four chair turn, a performance like this would create havoc amongst "The Voice" judges. 
 
An interesting side note about this track is that it starts off with footsteps (apparently walking over to the turntable) and leads into the sound of a needle being dropped onto a record.  Then, as the song begins, and ends, you can actually hear the scratches so commonly associated with that mode of listening.  Tracy explained to me that as a youngster, she actually wore out the needle listening to Bonnie Raitt's version of the song and she just felt right adding it to her version, in tribute to her greatest influence.    
 
Other songs on "What's the Rush?" include: "Everybody Wants", "I Got the Honey", and "Indigo Heart".
 
To look into getting your hands on a copy of this excellent disc and to find out more about Tracy K, just go to www.tracyk.ca.  And as I always ask you to do, please tell her the Blewzzman sent you.                   
 
Peter "Blewzzman" Lauro
Blues Editor @ www.Mary4Music.com
2011 Keeping the Blues Alive Recipient 
 
         - Mary4Music

The cover makes you think folkie or Rory Block, the sound makes you think rocker.  A proponent of the Winnipeg music scene, this hard driver has no aspirations to be Janis or Bonnie Raitt, she’s simply a blues rocking babe that knows how to bring the awards home.  With her closest neighbors probably being ten miles away, there’s nothing to stop her from tearing the roof off the barn and honing her racket as loud and proud as she wants.  Smoking stuff from a super guitar slinger that knows how to bring the heat. - MidWest Record

Google translation


Because of her busy calendar around yet the Canadian Tracy K was happy a little time to look into her fourth album. Her career was in 2007 actually put on track by winning the release of her second album 'Old, New, Borrowed & Blues "to continue with the acoustic album" Canned Heat "in 2011. Two years ago, Tracy was the only Canadian company on Ruf Records Blues Harp Woman 'compilation album and the release' Keeping the Blues Alive: Volume Six, "which was gereleaset for Mary4Music. Tracy also twice won the regional competition to represent Thunder Bay at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee. On her latest offering 'What's The Rush' Tracy was backing into the Bedside Studio 'who's who's' in the Winnipeg music scene. The magic of the story translated into a demo, which grew into an EP, which in turn, resulted in the eight-track album. Tracy K again effortlessly delivers a mood full 'and melodic radio play and is blessed with a heavenly beautiful and lovely voice. With a certain brute force she tempers her timbre with a presumptive vulnerability. Here she is also a very talented harp virtuoso who thus perfectly approves its own compositions. The album opens with the boogie rhythm of "Everybody Wants". Tracy's harp arrangements run smoothly right into Jason Nowick guitar riffs and Leonard Lewsh 'Shaw keyboard tones. In pleasant divergence is then the acoustic 'I Got The Honey "where Jamie' Snakeman 'Steinhoff's dobro guitar is the reason for you to explore the Mississippi Delta Plain. The postmoderne 'What Tomorrow Brings "leads us with his typerende tunes to New Orleans, the handsome' Heartstrung 'and the emotional ballad" Done Gone Wrong' and 'Indigo Heart' are absolute highlights. The jazzy electrified Time Machine with its minimalist cast of Tony DesMarteau on guitar and Tracy's voice next culmination. And then the final 'I'm Guilty "original Randy Newman needs and that creaks like an old faithful LP, still pass by. The magical moment would not budge. As an avid blues fan we print a quick visit here on replay! - Keys and Chords

google translation

Le Zicazine: It is usually compared to Bonnie Raitt and Koko Taylor for the power and richness of his voice but is also a harmonica player of the highest order and time to think about his fourth personal effort, is calling the cream of the scene in Winnipeg, city, she embarked on an exercise in composition and interpretation particularly interesting. Alongside Tracy K, and notices guitarists Jason Nowicki, Terry Barnett, Jamie Steinhoff and Tony Desmarteau, bassists Vaughan Poyser and Nenad Zdjelar, drummers George Demeduk and Ty Rogers and finally Leonard Shaw posing turn his keyboards but as its brass, the talented singer / songwriter endeavoring to be surrounded by the best way to be certain that this book halfway between the small and large EP album is as close as possible to perfection. Navigant sight between folk blues, pure juice blues and blues that is tinged pop intelligently, Tracy K pulls no punches and tells us the color without being asked, revealing a pace not supported under seven solo compositions securely tied before closing the door with a polished resume "I'm Guilty" by Randy Newman. Leaving his harmonicas speak to great effect on half the tracks, Tracy K managed the feat to shine in turn to his voice, to his game, or for both, and it is following the road of "Everybody Wants," "I Got the Honey", "Done Gone Wrong" and other "Time machine" that one is persuaded by an artist full and complete sincerity, a singer who does not cheat and that n 'hesitates not a second to get in trouble when it becomes necessary to force a little on the treble or even outright on power. It follows a course talent tinged album, but above all passion and that's probably what makes it real value! Manitoba has found his lady blues and it is with pride that Tracy K assumes its role ...     
 - Zicazine

If the Canadian Tracy K has learned anything in its fiftieth anniversary and thirty-year musical career, it is that things do not always go as planned. Life happens, children place, a marriage and a divorce happens, it happens a serious illness, not even once, but twice in the case of Tracy. Yet this musician still happy in her life and she is happy that she still can and should make music. It took until 2000 before Tracy could release her debut album 'Welcome To My Fantasy'. Thanks to that album they got a lot of gigs in blues, jazz and folk festivals, theater, concerts and women in blues events. The latter brought her, thanks to a tour in Canada, the United States and in the Caribbean. When she appeared in 20002 on the Thunder Bay Festival, the audience barely knew her, but her performance was so successful that they are one year later again stood on the poster. In 2004, Tracy moved to Thunder Bay. In 2007 her second album 'Old, New, Borrowed & Blues, "which was nominated in several competitions. In 2011, then followed it five stars acoustic album 'Canned Heat'. Tracy won twice regional IBCM competition and could thus represent Thunder Bay twice at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. In 2015, she resided in Memphis jury for this competition. Tracy returned to Canada and settled in Manitoba, where she worked quietly on the album 'What's The Rush' which appeared on September 30th. This blues album was recorded at the renowned Bedside Studios in Winnipeg. It's her fourth album and contains eight songs. Her singing is reminiscent of Bonnie Raitt and Koko Taylor. Its atmospheric melodies are interspersed with bluesy grooves. All songs on "What's The Rush 'was written by Tracy K, except' I'm Guilty", which was written by Randy Newman.

Tracy K opens her new album 'What's The Rush' in spectacular fashion with the opdwepende "Everybody Wants". Tracy takes itself, outside the vocals also the harmonica on its behalf and Canadian puts her heart and soul right in that instrument. Jason Nowicki is constant and explicitly present with blistering guitar work and with George Demeduk on drums and bass Vaughan Poyser Tracy has a rhythm section where you can build a rock. "Everybody Wants" is a superb introduction to the album. The slide sounds coming from the dobro Jamie 'Snakeman' Steinhoff, form the basis of the Delta blues song 'I Got The Honey'. The raw voice of Tracy comes here very good to her right. Tracy all-rounder as songwriter can be heard in the very beautiful soulful ballad 'What Tomorrow Brings. Leonard Show is numbered with the warm tones of his organ and Jason shines once again on the razor-sharp guitar riffs, which really contrasts with the warm, fragile voice of Tracy. With "Done Gone Wrong 'Tracy fishing in the same pond as' What's Tomorrow Brings. Tracy confirms that they have a strong voice, but it is mainly the phenomenal job on the keys of Leonard Lewsh "Shaw, the ripping guitars Jason Nowicki and the searing blow and suction work of Tracy on her blues harp that number to a very lifting high level. Great song and it would not surprise me that Tracy with this 'Done Gone Wrong' lot would get airplay on some radio stations. The poppy ballad 'Indigo Heart' can not please all, fortunately there is a very beautiful melodic solo by Terry Barnett still is still worth the number. Guitarist Tony DesMarteau Tracy wrote the music and the text for the jazz song "Time Machine", which also bring them closer to their two. The afsluiter'I'm Guilty 'is a real gem and it is not only the merit of Tracy. Randy Newman his share there at least as great in, for he wrote this very strong song that has been covered countless times. You remember certainly the version of Bonnie Raitt yet. Tracy keeps sober in its version, with only the acoustic guitar of Jamie Steinhoff as guidance. The singer impresses with her hoarse voice and her restrained work on her harmonica. Tracy does not have to rush for me when every time such a wonderful album "What's The Rush 'delivers. - Concert Monkey, reviewed by Walter Vanheuckelom - Concert Monkey

Google translation: 

It is remarkable how you may be affected by the cover of an album. Take the 4th studio album this coming from Winnipeg Tracy K. On the picture you see a woman quietly enjoying the scenery with acoustic guitar and an equally quiet dog but then ... Perhaps we should first look at the cooperating artists and then was definitely fixed noticed the name of Jason Nowicki and when you submit the link to Winnipeg you'll soon off to the Perpetrators and you know there's quality you're coming down.
With some browsing through the Canadian blues scene we already know that we are dealing with an extremely strong musician. A voice that can make it rock but also took over very soulful. Add to this that they have this eight-song album is 7 wrote and you know that this award-winning singer-songwriter and harmonica player of all trades.
Open they do in the spirit of Lester Butler with the rousing "Everybody Wants", a steamy boogie. With "I Got The Honey 'she perceives a little slow down Delta slide as main ingredient. 'What Tomorrow Brings' is again a very soulful slowbluesje to enjoy, a number that the title of the album lives up to. Also in that same spirit, we find the beautiful 'Done Gone Wrong'.
With the closing track 'Guilty' we know again why the acoustic guitar does play here and if we get this Tracy K is a very varied and strong blues album and because we do not hurry we express calmly replay! - Rootsville Europe