Album Notes

Montreal guitar slinger reinvents the blues...

Master blues guitarist Steve Rowe has earned his solid reputation. Acknowledged by press and fans as Quebec’s Guitar Hero, Steve has just released his fifth original album entitled FIVE to rave reviews.

Montreal CHOM radio’s Randy Renaud called Rowe a head-down, have-guitar will-travel professional who derives his greatest satisfaction from songs and notes perfectly delivered”. He was right. As is Rowe’s style, every note is deliberate and each tone carries meaning.

Steve’s approach to blues comes from 1950s Chicago and 60s British blues, largely self-taught, with influences from Michael Bloomfield, all the Kings (Freddie, Albert, and B.B.), Buddy Guy and Eric Clapton. From early Blue Note jazz, Steve takes a detour to New Orleans Mardi-Gras, back in time for some 30s jump blues, ending with a side trip to Memphis for a mid-60s Stax groove. FIVE brings a level of artistry and tradition that only comes after years of la vie en blues.

Steve has firmly established his place in the blues scene, with regular showcases at The Montreal International Jazz Festival, countless Blues Fests, and opening for top performers such as Bryan Lee, Colin James and Smokey Wilson. Rowe’s live performances have been broadcast nationwide by Rogers and Bravo Television, and has been a repeated guest on both national and local radio stations. The many tributes, reviews and nominations garnered have only sweetened the ride.