David Milton McGowan

We had a great concert here (Diamond Willow Retreat) Sat. night (July 25/15) from two of the most versatile and accomplished musicians I have had the pleasure to hear and observe in a very long time. Some great songs as well, written by them in genres from country through folk to jazz. I was blown away by a composition that reminded me very much of Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli of the “Hot Jazz Club”. However, those two greats from France did not have the lyrics and outstanding harmonies presented by Dan Frechette and Laurel Thomsen. I hope to see them back again as do all those who attended. You can take a look for yourself at: https://www.facebook.com/danandlaurel or at their web-site which is: http://www.danandlaurel.ca/Home.html And while I’m thinking of it I’ll mention again that after you have “liked” their facebook page I would appreciate it if you did the same to mine … https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-David-McGowan-Fan-Page-Strateg...

A highly entertaining read and a view of the American music business from the inside.                                         I was waiting with anticipation for the release of this work since I had heard many stories about Lee Cheney. I knew that he had played folk, country and rock through the 60s, 70s and 80s. I knew that he had worked with song writers and musicians whose work I had covered in my two short excursions into the world of the road musician. I knew that he had done well with a novelty song he penned entitled “Fred” which had been recorded by Ray Stevens. I was hoping to hear, or more accurately read some great stories about the music world from someone who had been there. I was not disappointed. I am however disappointed that I did not have the opportunity to see Cheney perform live as a single, as a duo with the many partners he describes (including Chuck Mc...

Tim Horton’s or “Timmy’s” as many call it has made a serious blunder in the world of “branding”, corporate identity and advertising in general. This gaff can not be better explained and understood than following the article/opinion that Rex Murphy has contributed to the National Post. It can be viewed and read at: http://www.nationalpost.com/m/wp/news/blog.html?b=news.nationalpost.com/full-comment/rex-murphy-im-off-to-second-cup-timmy-we-hardly-knew-ye&pubdate=2015-06-07 In many things I agree with Rex and even when I don’t I find his presentations highly entertaining. Enjoy. The new release of “The Great Liquor War” has been through the usual three checks for technical perfection (and despite my best efforts I expect there will be a mistake or two) and the next step is for them to send me a test copy. Hopefully soon. We went with the front cover as I presented it here.