More reviews and photos from Ottawa Bluesfest 2025: Dwayne Gretzky and Los Bitchos

lead vocalist Soleil Crispin. Their guitars were robust, delivering bold riffs that captured the audience’s attention. It was a pleasant surprise to hear a hint of cowbell in Joe Ivison’s drumming, adding a unique touch to their sound.

Despite some technical difficulties, with Crispin humorously mentioning she broke a nail after the first song, the band delivered a dynamic performance. Transitioning from the upbeat “Grendel (I Look for You in Everyone)” to the more introspective “Crom Be Gentle,” Four Eyed Muscle Man showcased their musical versatility. Songs like “An Excerpt from the Canadian Neolithic Songbook Pt 1” highlighted their energy and stage presence, reminiscent of bands like The Detroit Cobras, although their sound was distinct.

Following Four Eyed Muscle Man was London-based band Los Bitchos, who brought a fresh perspective with their blend of instrumental Cumbia and Latin influences. Strutting onto the stage to the tune of Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman,” they launched into a lively set that captivated the audience. The band’s tight instrumentation and impeccable synchronization on tracks like “Hi!” left a lasting impression, showcasing their musical prowess.

Los Bitchos’s performance was a captivating blend of funky rhythms and groovy basslines, with standout moments like Josefine Jonsson’s bass riffs on “Tropico” and the dynamic energy of Serra Petale and Agustina Ruiz on “Lindsay Goes to Mykonos.” Their closing song, “Las Panteras,” was a perfect finale that left the crowd buzzing with energy and enthusiasm.

As the night progressed, Toronto’s Dwayne Gretzky took to the River Stage with flashing lights and theatrical smoke. Despite being a cover band, Dwayne Gretzky’s rendition of iconic tracks like Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy” and Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” was nothing short of exceptional. Their vocal harmonies and musical precision were remarkable, often fooling the audience into believing they were hearing the original artists.

With a setlist that included classics like Paul Simon’s “You Can Call Me Al” and Tina Turner’s “Simply the Best,” Dwayne Gretzky kept the crowd on their feet throughout the performance. Songs like Sly and the Family Stone’s “Higher” had everyone dancing and singing along, solidifying the band’s reputation as one of the best cover bands in the industry.

Overall, the lineup of Four Eyed Muscle Man, Los Bitchos, and Dwayne Gretzky at Ottawa Bluesfest 2025 was a testament to the diverse talents showcased at the festival. Each band brought their unique sound and style, creating an unforgettable night of live music that left the audience craving more. Here’s to discovering new artists and experiencing the magic of live music at festivals like Bluesfest.