Robert Glen George
This picture, a GIF created by Eran Mendal is in honour of my keyboard-playing friend George Lardie who is having a very special show next Saturday, December 5 to release his new CD called "Shine."
For George Lardie, making music is equal to life itself. From the time he picked up the guitar as a kid he has pursued the life of an artisan and a craftsman. For more than four decades George has been covering songs, writing songs, and performing in all kinds of groups and settings across the country. In 1995 he was living out west and was involved in planning the first the Juggernaut Jam, which continues today as the Edge of the World music festival. George has performed and been interviewed on CBC radio. He has played in bands with names like Figs Whit, Borderline, The Charlotte Tones, and Sea Grass. He has lived in Edmonton, Vancouver, The Queen Charlotte Islands and many other western towns, always following his creative dream and drawing inspiration from music.
George has written about 60 songs of his own, and knows at least 1000 others.
But here’s the rest of the story.
I first met George Lardie in 2012 when he came to a blues jam. He had traveled several blocks in his wheelchair. The venue was not accessible, but George was determined to take part, so he asked us to pick him up and carry him up the stairs. Once he was into the venue, it soon became clear that George had a lot to offer. A whole lifetime's worth of music was inside him, just waiting to burst out. He joined in on his keyboard, only taking a break to play his harmonica or have a beer.
George phoned me up. He wanted to get help in making a CD at a professional studio. That's how we found out about Studio 410. Owner Carm Milioto was willing to make some measurements to be sure that the doorway and studio area was accessible for George’s wheelchair. And Carm was very open-minded, easy-going and flexible with George's needs and time frames. After our first session with Carm we knew that things would work out well. Carm has a way of encouraging and moving things along in a good way. The recording sessions took several visits to the studio over four months, but of course it was worth it!
The music in Shine displays a certain gravitas and brilliance. There is an eclectic mix of styles. The melodies are catchy; the lyrics reflect life's search for meaning and describe the range of feelings and perplexities we all experience; the vocal delivery is decisive and impassioned because George’s songs have a universal message for everyone. The completion of Shine is due to George's determined resolve to get it done. He is the force behind it all.
I am totally blown away by Shine and all that it represents. George Lardie’s songwriting talent, persistence, and patience in getting it done is an encouragement to us all.
The CD Release Party at Studio 410’s Music Mill
Date:
Saturday, December 5, 2015.
Time:
Doors 7pm. Show begins at 8pm. Done by 11pm.
Place:
The Music Mill at Studio 410, 410 Regional Road 20, Hannon, ON
(Regional Road 20 is Rymal Road as it continues east of Centennial Parkway)
Directions:
Look for the sign “Gos and Gris Cheese” on your right as you head east on Regional Road 20. It’s just past the Terra Garden Centre. Go down the driveway and take the first left.
The Music Mill is located second building on your right.
Admission:
$20 includes CD, refreshments.
Parking:
Plenty of parking on site.
More Information:
About the Music Mill
The Music Mill is a brand-new 1000 square-foot rehearsal and showcase stage. It is fully equipped with a state-of-the-art audio system and full back line. Perfect for events of up to 60 people with a band, or even more with a DJ. Out on the Stoney Creek mountain, with plenty of parking. The most original place in town! Bring your favourite food & refreshments and you're good to go!
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