Guitar Mikey's Guitar Prowess at The Molson Canadian Studio

Mike "Guitar Mikey" McMillan is no stranger to Hamilton blues fans. Back in the day he was holding court weekly at The Gown and Gavel when Hess Street was Hess Street. Last Saturday's show at The Molson Canadian Studio gave local blues killers Trickbag the spotlight as Mikey's backup band.

Anchored firmly by Paul Panchezak's straight-on, no-nonsense, dug-in drumming, Larry Feudo's exceedingly capable rhythm/solo guitar work and groovemaster Mike Hickey's strong, confident work on bass, the band left tons of room for the featured player and his special guest keyboardist Peter Nunn (Honeymoon Suite).

And for me, a pleasant surprise was Trickbag's Les Smith on harmonica. Billy Gibson, last year's blues harp sideman and Mikey's Mississippi friend of international stature, was unable to make it. But there was no gap in the intensity and showmanship provided by Smith. Great job!

Ivan Sorensen, photographer, covered the event and captured some great shots, some of which are featured below.

Mikey plays "The Snake."
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

The Studio crowd was enthusiastic and familiar with Mikey's
work and reputation. CD sales were brisk.
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

Larry Feudo
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

Les Smith never let up for a second. He kept the
blues feeling out there for the entire show.
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

Paul Panchezak lays it down.
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

Mikey plays Feudo's Strat after breaking his low E
string. "There aren't any guitar strings strong enough..."
Also Mike Hickey, Peter Nunn, Les Smith.
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

Peter Nunn
Photo: Ivan Sorensen

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