One of the most surprising secrets in today’s Canadian blues scene is the voice and presence of Ruth McGillivray. Simply stated, she’s an amazing talent. Her deep, rich tone turns heads when she starts to sing, but it’s the emotion that stops people in their tracks–she’ll take you from aching tenderness to power and fury in about a bar and a half.

The electricity, freedom, and honesty in her delivery are reminiscent of Janis Joplin. She does it for love and the audience can tell. Tom Harrison of The Vancouver Sun says of her signature rendition of Piece of My Heart, “She makes the song her own.”

In an ocean of chops-driven guitar slingers, Sheldon’s skill as a songwriter, arranger and accompanist makes him stand out as a complete musician. A consummate student of music, he’s always learning and exploring different genres, musical styles and instruments. He loves to share his wealth of knowledge about music, artists and gear with any musician or music lover.

Sheldon’s mesmerizing solos, funky rhythm and voicings are created through groove and improvisation. When he’s in the zone, he takes listeners on a musical journey full of unexpected twists and turns, yet remaining true to the intent of the song. Doug Gallant of Canadian Musician referred to him as “a very fluid, very natural player.”

Paul Freeman’s funk, finesse and ease on stage come from a lifetime of performance in show bands, big bands, and 10+ years grooving with Hoto in Bradley/McGillivray.

Paul was an original member of the Keiron Anderson Orchestra, one of England’s premier showbands throughout the late 70’s and 80’s. The band travelled extensively around the world with contracts taking them to the Middle East, Scandinavia and South Africa, backing many household names. A long term association with Cunard Cruise Line extended their international experience to include North and South America and the Mediterranean. This eventually lead to a residency in Southern Spain where the band owned and operated their own night club until Paul immigrated to Canada in the mid-90’s.

Hoto has been playing professionally for twenty-three years including stints with late-90’s Vancouver pop-phenom Fools Parade. A graduate of Capilano College’ s jazz program, Hoto is a versatile player having spent time on the country, jazz and hard rock circuits. He is most at home layin’ down the funk and co-founded Vancouver’s Personal Funk Device in the late 90s. Hoto is grateful for the opportunity to have played with countless great artists on the Vancouver scene.