With the CCMAs over and the artists resume their touring and recording there will be one thing that will be remembered fondly about the week here in Calgary – The Oak Tree Tavern and it’s transformation into The Blue Jay Café.

What an initiative by Oak Tree Tavern, Eat North, Russell Brewing and Calgary Country to bring these shining musicians together in an intimate atmosphere in an effort to replicate the experiences of Nashville’s renowned Bluebird Café, to share their stories, talents and to connect with fans virtually one on one.

 

The final session on Saturday featured an amazing line up that included the wonderful storytelling and guitar picking of Mark Times.

Mark Times, Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

Mark Times, Blue Jay Café Sessions, Joe Miles

Mark Times, Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

 

There were some absolutely amazing harmonies of Noel Johnson and Nathan Crook (of Johnson Crook).

Nathan Crook (Johnson Crook), Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

(Johnson Crook), Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

 

Nathan Crook, Noel Johnson, Mark Times, Blue Jay Café Sessions, Joe Miles

 

… and of course the superb voice of Leah Daniels.

Leah Daniels, Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

Leah Daniels, Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

 

 

Each artist took turns stunning the packed in crowd with their art and at the same time telling light hearted stories that brought smiles and laughter to everyone in the room. The crowd hung on every lyric and note as one could tell they knew how special it was to be in the room.

Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles

 

What struck me was how authentic these sessions have been and how genuinely happy all the artists were to be there. Here’s hoping more of these Blue Jay Café sessions happen at The Oak Tree as there is no shortage of wonderful talent here.

Blue Jay Cafe Sessions, Joe Miles