“Entertaining is the key word” – Jim Galloway – Whole Note Magazine
photo by Ken Woroner
“” It’s enough to make you swoon.” Daniella Hacevor – British Airways Highlife Magazine – 07.09
photo by Phil Babcock
Two guitars, clarinet, and an upright bass back up a veteran swing-punk. His raspy voice, growling trumpet and street-wise charm breathe new life into depression-era standards and irreverent originals.
The Red Rhythm perform every Saturday afternoon at the Communist’s Daughter in Toronto. Their debut recording, Saturday Matinee, was recorded live and released in May of 2010.
Michael Louis Johnson – trumpet and vocals, Roberto Rosenman – guitar, Patrick Gregory – rhythm guitar, Terry Wilkins – bass, Bob Stevenson – clarinet.
” … one of the finest musical experiences of this man’s life.” – Ian Pearson – Toronto: A City Becoming – Key Porter Books 2008 – reprinted Toronto Star 20.04.08
tradition: vodka shots during Oche Chornye
Customer Reviews - itunes
See them live by any means necessary
by SlangevarWhile we were up in Toronto, a friend recommended that we check out one of their weekly shows at a bar called the Communist’s Daughter. When we got there, it was packed and the band was already playing, so we squeezed to the back, apologizing the whole way. The bartender was all smiles – got us drinks and helped us find a place to sit. So imagine our surprise when the same guy broke into song as he was pouring our drinks. It was Michael Louis Johnson!
And that was how the rest of the show went… MLJ would casually joke with the audience, pour amazing vodka shots for “Oche Chornye,” and then break out a trumpet and go all Louis Armstrong. It was quite literally one of the best experiences of our lives… like stepping into a Woody Allen movie. I HIGHLY recommend catching one of their live shows if you’re in the area.
listen to The Hobo Knows written by Michael Louis Johnson
for more pics and music visit Michael Louis Johnson on CBCradio3
videos:
The Hobo Knows – live at the Commie (music starts 3 minutes in, after interview)
Melody – live at the Commie
There will never be another you – live at the Commie
rather foggy video – Half Moon – Half Crazy/La Vie en Rose/ Out of Nowhere/ Puttin on the Ritz at the Commie (no bass player, Chris Bezant and Roberto Rosenman -guitars