Having grown up in the Chatham-Kent area, I've seen many a rise and fall in the local music scene. That being said, the "scene" is a matter of opinion. Some will tell you that there are bands galore in Chatham, but to me, a scene is when you can go out on a Friday night and see a band coming through town, or discover a new band, or catch a local favourite out at the pub. Having that choice keeps it fresh and exciting. The ability for local acts to mix it up with touring bands also provides local music to reach new audiences. Well, some of that excitement is on the way back VIA a new local group called Culture Factory.
Culture Factory is a not-for-profit group that I had the pleasure of joining last year. One of our aims is to enhance the local music scene by getting Chatham back on the map as a touring bands' destination. Why shouldn't we be on that map? We happen to be on one of the most travelled highways in North America and most of the bands touring Canada drive right by us en route to London, Windsor, or Sarnia.
On Feb 8th, one of those bands is coming back to Chatham, after being exposed to last years' CF festival. By Divine Right, wsg Shotgun Jimmie, both from Toronto, will be at the Chatham Cultural Centre Studio One. It will be BDRs third time in Chatham, and a first for Shotgun Jimmie. The show is an unofficial kick off to the 2013 season, and it is a great opportunity to meet the board members and learn more. Doors at 9pm, $10 cover. Keep connected in 2013 at www.culturefactory.ca