GRAHAM ROCKINGHAM’S BEST BETS
KIM CLARKE CHAMPNISS
Kim Clarke Champniss is best known as a MuchMusic VJ during the ’80s, interviewing major artists of the time ( Johnny Rotten of the Sex Pistols threw grapes at him and called him some very nasty names). He’s performing a theatrical monologue based on his book “Skinheads, Fur Traders, and DJs” at Mills Hardware, 95 King St. E., on Thursday, Jan. 18. Show at 8 p.m. Doors at 7. DJ set by Lou Molinaro. $22 advance or $25 at the door
AVERY FLORENCE
There’s a relatively new lounge/eatery in east Hamilton called The Capitol Bar, 973 King St E., just west of Barnesdale, featuring live music. On Thursday, Jan. 18, talented Toronto singer-songwriter Avery Florence will perform music from her new EP “January.” Think Lisa Loeb, Jewel and Carole King. Show at about 9 p.m. No cover charge. 289-389-1001. thecapitolbar.com.
REID JAMIESON
The music continues Saturday, Jan. 20, at the Shawn & Ed Brewing Co., 65 Hatt St., in Dundas with Vancouver folkie Reid Jamieson performing with his partner Carolyn Victoria Mill. Reid established a national following as a frequent guest on CBC’s Vinyl Café. This will be for fans of the late Stuart McLean. Doors open at 7 p.m. Show starts at 7:30. $20, includes first glass of beer. 289-238-9979.
SONNY DEL-RIO
This month Stonewalls launched its “No Cover Sundays” blues matinees. This week the featured act is Hamilton’s favourite saxophone player Sonny Del-Rio and his 5 Star Review band. Expect lots of boogie, blues and old fashioned rock ’n’ roll. Show starts at 3 p.m. A good choice for late lunch or early dinner. 339 York Blvd. 289-769-9598. Parking available. Stonewallshamilton.com.
THE FUGITIVES
This Vancouver-based folk group has received multiple nominations for the Canadian Folk Music Awards and won a Western Canadian Music Award. The group is releasing an album this month, “The Promise of Strangers.” Its opening track “No Words” is a tribute to the late Leonard Cohen. They perform Wednesday, Jan. 24, at Mills Hardware, 95, King St. E. with Piper Hayes. $15 in advance/$20 at the door. 7 p.m.