On this September 14th, warm summer night, the 12th annual Ville Ile Perrot (VIP) in Blues delivered a night to remember.  Forging together music, food, and a vibrant community atmosphere. With clear skies, perfect temperatures, and an eager crowd, this event was the highlight of our local music scene.

A Culinary Feast:

At the heart of the event was an incredible gastronomic collaboration, featuring 15 local restaurateurs. Some of the standout vendors included: Bifrost, CafeXO, The Taco Shack, Europe Deli, Fried & Gof, Chimney, Cakes, Glitter & Glam, The Khmer, Kokode Patisserie, The Baravan, Chinese lantern, The Curve, Authentic Slouvaki, Labonté Orchard, and Zoe Desserts. Each offered a unique twist on global flavors, from bold Indian spices to the delicate finesse of Italian cuisine. It was a true showcase of the rich, diverse culinary talents that thrive in our region.

The Music Lineup:

The music didn’t disappoint, with a stellar lineup of bands that had the crowd buzzing all night long.

5:00 PM – The Sugar Darlings

The evening kicked off with the up-and-coming Montreal-based Sugar Darlings. Since forming in 2020, this dynamic band has brought a refreshing mix of Blues, Soul, Funk, and Rock ‘n’ Roll. Fronted by the electric Miche Love, whose powerful vocals evoke the likes of Aretha Franklin and Etta James, the band set the perfect tone for the night.

6:00 PM – The Stephen Barry Band

Legendary in the Quebec blues scene, The Stephen Barry Band took the stage next. Having been active since 1975, they are a staple of the Montreal music scene. With Stephen Barry leading the way on vocals and bass, the band—joined by guitarist Andrew Cowan, drummer Gordie Adamson, and saxophonist Jody Golick—delivered a masterclass in blues. Although I missed the names of the talented backup vocalists, the band’s synergy was undeniable, with each member contributing to an unforgettable performance.

7:00 PM – Mike Goudreau and the Boppin’ Blues Band

Mike Goudreau and his band brought the house down with an hour of energetic, heart-pounding blues. Goudreau, born into a musical family in Newport, Vermont, has been playing the guitar since age 14, and his passion for music is evident. His sharp leads and soulful rhythms left the crowd wanting more. Check out the gallery and videos below to relive the magic.

8:15 PM – Jo Hell

Montreal-born Jo Hell hit the stage next, delivering a high-octane performance that had the crowd on their feet. Known for his electrifying live shows, Jo Hell paid homage to blues great Stevie Ray Vaughan, putting his unique spin on the classics. His bold stage presence and remarkable guitar skills made for a performance that blues and rock fans won’t soon forget.

9:30 PM – Jack de Keyzer

Closing the night was none other than Jack de Keyzer, a seasoned blues musician known for his distinctive blend of Chicago blues, London rock, and Motown soul. De Keyzer’s decades of experience were on full display as he dazzled the audience with his soulful renditions, particularly his standout performance of “Walkin’ Blues.”

Wrap Up:

As the night came to an end, it was clear that the Ville Ile Perrot (VIP) in Blues had once again proven itself as a premier event. The combination of world-class food, top-notch musicians, and an enthusiastic crowd made it a night to remember.

Stay tuned for next year’s lineup, and don’t forget to check out the photos and videos from this year’s event below!