A True Minstrel

He is a true minstrel:  hailing from Vancouver, Steve Jones is a musical storyteller, and has been since he was small.  Now residing in the Okanagan, Steve is known in the Valley as a sensitive Singer/songwriter.  He is surrounded by veteran musicians in the Steve Jones Band, a wealth of musical talent that helps him create and produce some of the most vibrant music to land on your ears!

The Steve Jones Band consists of, of course, Steve on guitar and vocals, Blair Kennedy on guitar and vocals, bassist Bob Gronowski-whom also provides vocals and drummer Akapita Haupapa and Monika Jones on vocals and percussion.  As we can see, the Steve Jones Band provide the rare five-voice harmony along with thoughtful, energetic and telling songs born of the heart of Mr. Jones.

I hope to have a ‘sit-down’ with the band, as I know we would immerse ourselves in some very interesting ‘War Stories’, what with the combined experiences of all involved.  Bob Gronowski  is fully immersed in Motown, coming from the Motor City, but cut his musical teeth out of Toronto.  Bob has played with Artists such as Terry Edmunds and Robbie King among others.  There is Blair Kennedy, a Saskatchewan boy, whom has toured all over Western Canada and even did a stint with Joe Cocker!  The Steve Jones drummer comes via New Zealand; Akapita was very active in New Zealand and came to the Okanagan in the early nineties.  And then there is Monika Jones, with a beautiful voice and a soul that matches, meeting up with Steve in high school!  The pair have been together ever since and undoubtedly, Monika has been the inspiration of many songs composed by Steve!

What about the music Bruce?!  The music?—it is a high energy blend of storytelling and guitar driven musical journeys that is best heard live!  In fact, the group are enjoying their latest release, “Live And Kicking Ass”, performances that promise to stay with you for a long time.  This new cd displays the vast Talent of each of the musicians that make up the band, not over shadowing-but a harmonious force to be reckoned with!  “Live And Kicking Ass” is a great way to introduce yourself to this great musical force from your own backyard.  Go to www.jonessong.com and order this and other Steve Jones releases!  Steve Jones-a True Minstrel indeed, and a fine story teller!

Catch the Steve Jones Band this weekend:  Penticton Lakeside Resort: ‘Barking Parrot Patio’ Friday August 10^th and Saturday August 11^th showtime is 5:30pm

​​Under The Lights

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.