Hwy 11 at the (only) lights in South River, ON    Licensed LLBO

Join our email list  reneescafe@gmail.com    Check out  www.renees.net

Call us!   705 386-0977 

 OPEN HOURS: Monday - Thursday 8am - 8pm (later for concert nights)
Friday - Saturday 8am - 11pm
Sunday 10am - 3pm

DINING & LIVE MUSIC - Reservations Appreciated. 

Friday June 19^th Chaffey Brothers 8pm $12 cover

The Chaffey Brothers have been singing together for over 4 years as a group, and these two Ottawa based musicians are not only brothers by name, but by blood. Matthew sings lead vocal and plays rhythm guitar, while his brother Curtis plays lead guitar and sings backup vocals. Their rock 'n roll-country-blues sound comes from an appreciation of traditional North American music styles and their experiences fronting acts on the road regionally and nationally. The two have been writing and performing in various groups, but it was not until 2005 that they moved forward with recording and releasing their first CD "Harbord Street Soul".

With help from Michael Fitzpatrick (Downchild Blues Band) on drums, Alec Fraser (David Wilcox/Jeff Healy) as bass player/engineer/co-producer, and Michael Fonfara (Downchild/Lou Reed) on keyboard and as co-producer, the Brothers recorded a twelve song debut featuring all original material that had veins of country, soul, blues and rock. Matthew Chaffey's soulful vocal sound moves comfortably through many different styles, and his well rooted guitar playing keeps the songs grounded and driving. Accompanied by his younger brother, Curtis's cool-handed telecaster twang adds country textures to songs like "Baby, Ooh Baby" and "Come Back to Me", and then changes gears with tasteful blues solos on "You've Got to Be Strong" and "The Phone".

Saturday June 20^th Brass Tactics & Shane Bryson 8pm $10 cover

Previously known as Shifty-eye Ocean, Brass Tactics is a versatile up-and-coming bluesy rock band out of North Bay. They been have been playing shows all over Ontario over the past three years, from Toronto to Ottawa to Sudbury, and expansion to the East cost is on the horizon. Their covers range from CCR to Billy Joel, and their original music is known as some of the best new music in the area. With the sound of cutting lead guitar, toe-tapping bass, a flexible vocalist, and solid rhythm, Brass tactics is bound to astound.

Opening for Brass Tactics is former member and friend of the band Shane Bryson. He will be performing folk, rock, and alternative cover tunes as well as a few original selections. His music is up-beat and catchy and his audiences can always tell that he is into his music.

Friday June 26^th Ivan Blackbird 8pm $ 12 cover Ivan's music is an eclectic grafting of powerhouse-ethereal vocals, plunky, percussive, and delicate piano playing, and poetically-crafted lyrics - sometimes grave, sometimes demure, never saccharin.

Her music spans folk/cabaret/r&b/electro-acoustic pop, drawing on her diverse influences (Bruce Cockburn, Ani DiFranco, Hawksley Workman, Joni Mitchell, Bjork and more). Her songs & live performances garner comparisons to musicians such as Kate Bush, Sarah Sleen, Joni Mitchell, Tori Amos & Regina Spektor.

A kindred north-Ontario heart, Ivan returned home early last summer from touring with Hawksley Workman promoting his Juno nominated "Between the Beautifuls" record, & "Los Manlicious". The Telegram, St. John's NL says, "Goosebump-inducing vocal performances from keyboardist, and multi-instrumentalist, Ruth Cassie (Ivan Blackbird) can't go unmentioned. Her backup vocals on several songs earned shout-outs from the crowd." When she got home she found her shoes no longer fit and her cat needed a good brushing.

Saturday June 27^th Dom Deluca & Phillip Brown 8pm $12 cover

Dom is born and raised in Toronto, and has always had music in his life - whether the sweet sound of his mother’s voice singing Italian folk songs while preparing Sunday meals or his father joyfully squeezing spirited tunes out of his concertina. Somehow, though, the music "bug" didn’t bite him until he was well into his adult years. Inspired by Bob Dylan, Townes Van Zandt, and Ron Sexsmith, Dom taught himself how to play guitar, sing, and compose songs, and he took it all on as if it was the only thing that mattered.

Dom writes songs about lovers: both real and imagined, both idealized and cut down to size, songs of hope and happiness, songs of cynicism and sadness and disgust - plenty of disgust. His style is as classic singer-songwriter - soft and delicate one moment, and loud and rousing the next.

Dom was also the recipient of an ONTARIO ARTS COUNCIL SONGWRITERS’ GRANT in April 2008. Yes, the music bug bit him late, but he’s making up for lost time - one song, one record, one gig at a time…

Phillip Brown has been interested in two things for as long as he can remember: music and serving his country with the Canadian Forces. Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Phillip grew up listening to folk music, so he took a natural liking to the genre. His father taught him to play the guitar at the age of nine, and he’s never put it down since. At the age 16 Phil joined the Canadian Army Reserve. His skill and determination as a soldier allowed him to progress quickly, and in only a couple of years he began to instruct and train other members to become effective in their trade. In 2005, Phil had a chance to fulfill a life long dream of his and served on overseas operations in Afghanistan and the Persian Gulf. He has since safely returned to Canada.

"Winter Hymn" is Phillip’s third studio album. It was produced by award-winning producer Paul Mills. Phil wanted to make the album the best that it could be, so with the help of his producer he recruited bass player David Woodhead and renowned guitarist Jason Fowler. The album contains some of Phil’s best song writing yet, and the music is thoughtful and passionate. The songs are full of ideas about living in the city, travelling through Ontario and, appropriate to the album title, they contain vivid imagery of winter landscapes.

Phil has become known for his skillful guitar playing and unique style of finger picking. With his surprising song writing ability, Phillip Brown should continue to impress audiences and industry professionals for a long time to come.

Friday July 3^rd Joe Gee 8pm $12 cover

Joe Gee's been around, geographically and musically. Joe started playing piano at eight, guitar at ten, and over the years he's worked in rock/R&B bands as a keyboardist and lead singer in country and jazz bands. Through it all he has continued developing his version of American roots music (singing, playing, and writing) that draws form all corners of the American popular music world. No wonder his music brings to mind the work of so many diverse artists - Tom Waits, John Prine, and Fred Eaglesmith to name but a few.

Joe's debut American/Roots CD "Gee Joe" was released on the Fourth of July 2006 and many established names were enlisted for it, including Redd Volkaert, Noel McKay, Dan Walsh, and the late, great Harry Kleintank. Between emceeing, solo performances, and accompaniment, Joe performs constantly around the Austin Metro region and at festivals throughout North America. Among these festivals are Cicadafest, the Sisters Folk Festival, The Fred Eaglesmith Charity Picnic, Roots on the River, Fred Eaglesmith TX Weekend, The Downeast Picnic, The Woody Guthry Folk Festival, and the Great Northern Picnic.

Whether close to home or at some far-off (and often far-out) venue, Joe always delivers an energetic and entertaining mix of rootsy country-soul-folk-blues-rock that's sometimes funny, sometimes touching, sometimes rocking, and always heartfelt, real, and true - memorable shows that leave you with the feeling that "nobody is more into it than that guy!"

Saturday July 4th Carole Davidson Art Opening 7pm no cover

Renee's is pleased to announce TRANSITIONS a new exhibition of multi- media works by Carole Davidson.

Carole has lived her life in the creative realm as far back as she can remember, but it is only in the last four years, after raising her family, that she has channeled her energy into the creation of art on a professional level. Her transition from acrylics to metal was swift. Carole cuts, weaves, solders and shapes thin sheets of metals into breathtaking works of art that take on a life of their own. "Finding the artistic soul in copper, brass, aluminum and silver solder is easy, finding the process to release that soul is exciting and challenging.

Carole's work has been exhibited at the W.K.P. Kennedy Gallery, the White Water Gallery, the Snapdragon Gallery, Renee's Cafe, Art on Main, the Powassan Public Library and through the North Bay Artists Association. She was the featured Artist at Parkdale Gallery in Ottawa last year.

Buffet $14.95 from 5pm - 8pm, Piano music provided by Lori Mitchell.

Friday July 10th Fill Up On Country with Garry Wayne 8pm $10 cover

Returning to Renée's Café for an evening of old-time rock and country music, Fill Up On Country with Garry Wayne and Viceroy Bill is homegrown talent out of Huntsville. The acoustic guitar duo has been playing together for about 2 years and they draw their inspiration from musicians such as Kenny Rogers, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash. This act loves to take requests as the night rolls on, and Garry proports to know about 7000 songs, spanning music from The Rolling Stones to Anne Murray - wow. Fill Up On Country is concerned with more than just covering good music though, so they are sure to also pull some original songs from their repertoire for your listening pleasure.

Saturday July 11th Garry and Renee 8pm $10 cover

The instrumental duo plays music from many musical eras, including popular jazz standards from the 30s & 40s, be-bop from the 50s, and soul jazz from the 60s. Their love songs are sweet and their blues funky. Folk, Beatles, pop and original compositions are also in the repertoire.

Garry White is a veteran of the Toronto jazz scene and a versatile, gifted player who plays the guitar like no one else and is a treat to hear. He has played and toured North America and Europe with the Tommy Hunter Show, and later he played with The Platters. He went on to join Hagood Hardy, and also played with Guido Basso, Moe Koffman, Peter Appleyard, Ed Bickert, Norm Amadeo and many other jazz greats. His dynamic guitar sound shows many influences, ranging from Chet Atkins to Lennie Breau, Ed Bickert and Wes Montgomery.

Bassist Renée White is from Toronto where she began her musical studies on clarinet, playing with various concert bands and orchestras. Moving on to the bass opened many musical doors and she soon began playing with jazz and dance bands around the North Bay area.

Friday July17th Kate Jones 8pm $12 cover

Kate Jones is a solo piano-folk artist who began her song-writing career at the age of fourteen. Kate is classically trained in piano, and is also a self-taught guitar player. She enjoys writing and singing for both instruments.

Kate’s latest CD, "Her Seasons", was released in December 2008. The album is a collection of guitar and piano songs that explore the rhythmic, brave journey of a relationship through its cycle of bliss, trauma, and renewal. She looks forward to promoting her album and plans to tour in Ontario and Quebec in the coming year.

Kate’s music has a simple, strong quality that is lyrical and heart-felt. Her sensitive piano and guitar playing coupled with her honest vocal emotionality bring a sense of calmness to her listeners. Kate’s lyrics are thoughtful and rich, with the theme of nature recurring throughout. The artist’s friendly and relaxed demeanor sets her audiences at ease.

Saturday July 18th Ian Foster 8pm $10 cover

On his latest release, Room in the City, Ian sings about dark nights in bright places, long drives and longer conversations - all set amidst a backdrop of guitars, pianos, strings, and less conventional instrumentals like the marimba, the glockenspiel, and the xylophone, to name a few. The characters that inhabit the record make their way in and out of cities, taking their stories with them.

Ian was a finalist for the International Songwriting Competition, a 5-time Music NL nominee, and an ECMA (East Coast Music Award) nominee for "2008 Pop Recording of the Year". He has toured throughout Canada on several occasions, and has been played on radio internationally. (http://ianfoster.ca)

Friday July 24th Jake Thomas 8pm $10 cover

After 16 years, 33 band incarnations, and the release of his 7th CD in 2008, Jake Thomas has finally put together the right music at the right time. Inspired by Delta Blues, Chicago Blues, R&B, and West Coast Swing, Jake delivers his own edgy and raw style of blues that gets dancers dancing and listeners listening. Always entertaining and soulful, his shows are high energy with an emphasis on rocking the night away.

Saturday July 25th Eugene Smith 8pm $12 cover

Eugene Smith is coming all of the way from Vancouver B.C. on his tour, and you better believe he's and singing the blues. It has been a year since he last played here at Renee's but we are excited to have him and his soulful music back in town.

Thursday July 30th James Gordon & Katherine Wheatley 8pm $15 cover

James Gordon has had a remarkably diverse 30-year career in the Canadian entertainment business. As a solo singer-songwriter and with the ground-breaking trio Tamarack, he has released over thirty-five albums, and has toured relentlessly around the world. Gordon has written for symphony orchestras, musical theatre, dance works, film scores, and he was heard for more than ten years on CBC radio as songwriter-in-residence for the "Basic Black" and "Ontario Morning" programs. His songs have been recorded and performed by such varied acts as The Cowboy Junkies, Melanie Doane, Al Simmons, James Keelaghan, the Manitoba Chamber Orchestra, and many major choirs.

His song "Mining For Gold" was featured in John Sayles film "Silver City". Gordon's classic "Frobisher Bay" has been recorded by more than 100 different acts world-wide and was an audition piece on CTV's "Canadian Idol". His most ambitious work, the full-length folk opera "Hardscrabble Road" debuted live in the fall of 2003, and was released in June '05 on Pipe Street Records. Gordon has produced CDs for many Canadian folk artists, and his popular "Rhyme Capsules" songwriting-in-the-schools project has resulted in over two dozen CDs of songs by young composers. In the last three years he's toured in Great Britain, Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, and all across North America. Now he often tours with his musician sons Evan and Geordie.

Katherine Wheatley graduated from Queen's University with a geology degree and spent five seasons roughing it in the bush, gathering not only rock samples but material for her songs. It was only a matter of time before she left her tent and recorded her first CD, Straight Line, and it spent 17 weeks on Sam's Top Ten Independent Charts. Katherine's second CD, Habits and Heroes garnered praise from fans and critics alike and has helped her to launch a strong touring career. Katherine has been a regular at folk festivals, concert series and clubs across Canada since her debut. As well as having her own musical career, she is a member of the Toronto band, Betty and the Bobs, and a guitarist in Wendell Ferguson’s trio "The Smoking Section". She presents songwriting, vocal, and independent music career workshops at schools, folk clubs, and music stores across Canada, and she is the currently the ambassador for the campaign to raise six million dollars for the new hospital in her home town of Parry Sound, Ontario.

In a recent review of a show in Thunder Bay, Hubert O'Hearn of The Chronicle Journal wrote, "Katherine Wheatley gave an absolutely transcendent concert. She is able to take minor observations in life and find their soul. On stage...she exudes sheer kindness and love. Blessedly, refreshingly, Katherine Wheatley is a truly Canadian original". With offhand wit, vibrant lyrics and an infectious passion for performing, Katherine has been captivating audiences everywhere she performs. According to the Ottawa Citizen, "this is a performer to keep you on the edge of your seat."

Friday July 31st JP Riemens 8pm $12 cover

J.P. (Paul) Riemens is a singer/songwriter/producer/performer/bandmaster and all around musical bon vivant. He is well schooled in the areas of roots/rock, country, pop, and jazz and he is as at-home in an intimate acoustic environment as in a Concert Hall. He plays across Canada and into the USA, and is particularly fond of the 'Concert in Your House' phenomena sweeping across the land.

J.P. performs as a solo artist, in a duo with Brian Griffith or with Dan Walsh (as the Thunderbolt Bros.), or as leader of the roots/rock group, The Fabulous Bar Flies. <http://www.jpriemens.com/index.php>

August 1 David Leask

August 7 Jennifer Daniels - Art Opening

August 8 Fred Robertson

August 12 Stewed Roots

August 14 Marianne Girard

August 15 Shane Bryson and Friends - Original music from the North

August 19 Chloe Hall Trio - Australia

August 21 Joshua Gropp

August 22 Tiiu

August 28 Tracy K.

August 29 Papa John