Another Unforgettable Blues Holler Picnic: Colin Linden & The Rotting Matadors Light Up Uxbridge

On August 16, 2025, the sprawling private property in Uxbridge, Ontario, transformed into a blues haven for the latest installment of the Blues Holler Picnic, hosted by Music By The Bay Live. This rain-or-shine event, a cherished gathering for invited family and friends of the blues, delivered an evening of soul-stirring music, warm community vibes, and the kind of up-close-and-personal experience that makes these picnics legendary. With just one more picnic left in the 2025 season, this night proved why Blues Holler remains a highlight of the summer.

The evening kicked off with a captivating solo acoustic set by the multi-talented Steve Marriner. Known for his work with MonkeyJunk and as a versatile multi-instrumentalist, Marriner brought an intimate yet powerful energy to the stage. His stripped-down performance, rich with soulful vocals and deft guitar work, was the perfect appetizer for the night. The crowd, soaked in every note as Marriner’s heartfelt delivery set a warm, welcoming tone for the evening. His harmonica playing was outstanding, adding a layer of raw, emotive texture that elevated the set and reminded everyone of his ability to connect deeply with an audience.

As the sun dipped lower, Colin Linden and his longtime trio, The Rotting Matadors, took the stage, joined by the stellar rhythm section of John Dymond on bass and Gary Craig on drums. Linden, a Canadian music icon with a career spanning decades, brought his signature blend of electric blues, roots, and raw emotion to the Blues Holler stage. Fresh off his critically acclaimed album bLOW—his first electric blues release and a standout on Lucinda Williams’ Highway 20 label—Linden delivered a set that was both a nod to his storied past and a testament to his enduring relevance.

The Rotting Matadors, a trio known for their tight chemistry, didn’t disappoint. Linden’s guitar work—honed through years of touring with legends like Bob Dylan and playing on over 500 albums—was nothing short of electrifying. His ability to balance technical precision with raw passion kept the audience captivated, while Dymond and Craig’s locked-in grooves provided the perfect foundation.

The intimate setting of Blues Holler, with its bring-your-own-picnic vibe, BBQ aromas, and pet-friendly atmosphere, made the night feel like a gathering of old friends. Attendees had the chance to mingle with the band, swapping stories and sharing laughs in a way that larger venues simply can’t replicate. 

As the evening wound down, the crowd buzzed with excitement for the final Blues Holler Picnic of 2025, set for August 30 with Harry Manx and The Wanted. But for now, the memory of Colin Linden, The Rotting Matadors, and Steve Marriner’s soulful opener—complete with his standout harp playing—will linger in Uxbridge. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night of music, connection, and the kind of magic that only a Blues Holler Picnic can deliver.

For more details on upcoming events or to inquire about reservations for the next picnic, contact [email protected].

Colin Linden & The Rotting Matadors Steve Marriner at Blues Holler in Uxbridge

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