Friday Feb 5, at 8:00 pm. $10 cover. A concert by singer-songwriter Jay Aymar, at Artword Artbar, 15 Colbourne St., Hamilton. Jay Aymar is a Canadian singer-songwriter who mixes elements of country and folk with introspective, humorous and straight-forward lyrics. Jay’s latest album ‘Halfway Home’ is his best work yet and features the standout track “My Cherry Coloured Rose” which has recently been covered by the legendary Ian Tyson. http://www.myspace.com/jayaymar
Aymar has spent the past two years writing and recording the songs for his forthcoming release: Halfway Home. Ten acoustic based folk songs set to be officially released in late December 2009. His style is often compared to John Prine or Lyle Lovett. His work has gained him a well deserved following as of late. An engaging performer with an extensive catalogue of original material.
Jay’s musical journey began in 1993 when a CBC Radio casting call went out for new artists across Ontario. Jay’s songs were selected for a five song demo recording. From that exposure Aymar went on to write and record four more albums of what he cheerfully calls ‘homemade songs’. In true indie fashion he sold all of this product directly off stage.
Recently Jay’s song ‘My Cherry Coloured Rose” was covered by Ian Tyson on his lastest release From Yellowhead to Yellowstone and Other Love Stories. A simple song written in an hour about legendary hockey broadcasting icon Don Cherry and his late wife Rose. Ian Tyson: “Jay has written a true Canadian folk song – and it’s a classic.”
Over the years Aymar has played a several Ontario folk festivals and has opened for such diverse acts as Fred Eaglesmith, Tim Hus and even The Arrogant Worms . Quite recently, his performances at Toronto€™s Hugh€™s Room, The Dakota Tavern and Ontario’s Home Routes Circuit were very well received. He has performed throughout the Mediteranean in Spain, Italy and France.
Here are what some people have said about Jay’s recent live shows:
“Jay put on an outstanding performance for our Home Routes show. He has an easy going, casual onstage presence and through a skillful combination of humour and music, quickly connects with his audience and keeps them engaged for the whole night. His music is honest, straightforward and from the heart. A true poet and story teller, Jay’s songs reflect a depth of life experience and a humble, thankful soul.” David B.
“Jay put on a show that had the crowd laughing and crying along with his songs. A truly intimate evening, enjoyed by all present. Jay initially stepped up to the mic a stranger to all present, but his interaction with the crowd, his guitar work, and intimate songs, quickly transformed the group into a gathering of friends. A delightful, fun evening which people are still raving about.” Frank L.