Ottawa Blues

If you can’t wait for July to get to Bluesfest, check out the Rainbow Bistro (76 Murray St., 241-5123, therainbow.ca), the original home of Ottawa’s blues, jazz, and swing scene, offering a friendly, cozy atmosphere with live performances throughout the year. Jeff Healey, Powder Blues, Fathead, Mumbo Jumbo Voodoo Combo, and Roxanne Potvin have all graced the stage over the 20 years the club has been in existence, and they recently put out a retrospective CD of some of their favorite performers. A bit farther outside the downtown core is Tuscon’s (244- Bank St., 738-7596) where you’ll find what they claim is “the best in food and blues.”