Morin Heights is a picturesque little Laurentian town about 45 minutes from Montreal. But it is well known for something else besides cuteness. Morin Heights, and the surrounding area, is home to some of Quebec's best musicians and songwriters. For folk, you have the McGarrigles and the late Wade Hemsworth, jazz the incomparible bass player, Normand Lachapelle, the sax man, Reez Soudre, and in rock, the legendary Robert Charlebois. There is one really outstanding songwriter/composer, who other than among his fellow musicians, has remained virtually unknown. Michael Nerenberg is part Dave Van Ronk, part Tom Waits, part Tom Lehrer and part Jelly Roll Morton, but at the same time, all and uniquely himself. His songs are hilariously funny or poigniant, joyous or sad, but always socially aware and intelligent. I am so pleased to discover that Michael now has a web site and that it is possible to download some of his songs. He has also started an organization called Committed Music and I quote from the site, This site is meant unabashedly to serve as a forum for message music, a warring site against ignorance as much as a spot for fine sounds.
For Michael Nerenberg's songs and music see
It sounds as a great music scene.
ReplyDeleteWe really need another Phil Ochs or a Pete Seeger now. That tradition doesn't have the subversivness it used to.
Dave Van Ronk is an old Trotskyist.
Awesome. very worldly.
ReplyDeleteWhat an experience! You did a great job summarizing it. I can't wait for what Henri's got up his sleeve next.
ReplyDeletesome great stuff in coming across here......
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