Prior to a gig, The Commotions just about need a roll call. Weighing in at 12-members large, this group is a dying breed, but they’re keeping the groove alive for lovers of soul, funk, R&B and unadulterated cool.
Musical ensembles of this size offer up a goodly groove for audiences—filling the room with their energy, vocals, horns, keys, dancing and more. You could almost call it a “commotion” (come on, it was right there).
Although all musicians do it for the love of music, big groups stand out, as the more members you add, the more ways you have to split your hard-earned concert cash.
But, The Commotions did it anyway, creating an 12-piece super-group, composed of seasoned and celebrated musicians from Canada’s capital. Their passion for music prevailed over all common business sense, and now Canada has its own canuck contingent to “Delbert & The Commotions.”
You’d be hard pressed to find The Commotions more in their element than at Ottawa JazzFest.
“I am so excited for Ottawa Jazz Fest this year,” says Brian Asselin, the band’s Musical Director. “I have been going to the festival every year since I was 14 years old so I am both thrilled and honoured to put The Commotions on the main stage!”
You can catch The Commotions June 29th sharing the bill with some outstanding acts, including Herbie Hancock, Boz Scaggs, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and more.
With so many great gigs to choose from, we tapped these passionate cool cats for their top picks. “I cannot wait to show my support by attending as many shows as I can,” says Asselin. We agree!
Here are The Commotions top picks for TD Ottawa Jazz Festival 2018
[question]Corey Henry because he’s awesomely talented, and I love his gospel style.[/question]
[answer]Hands down I would say I have to see Lake Street Dive. This band is fantastic and I listen to their latest release a couple times a week on repeat. The energy this group gives is unbelievable and each member is at the top of their game. This band is so great I would tell my best friend that I will buy their ticket!![/answer]
[question]Lake Street Dive because their fun, funky and soulful! They’ve been one of my favourite bands for the past 4 years.[/question]
[answer]Another act I really want to see is KellyLee Evans as she is amazing and one of the most inspiring musicians I know. Her latest release, entitled ‘Come On’, was just nominated for a Juno and is another album I cannot put down.[/answer]
[question]Bella Fleck because they’re cool and wicked talented.[/question]
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