Steve Marriner

Before taking the stage for the first time, Marriner was bestowed with the moniker "Southside Steve," a reference to his home on the South end of Ottawa.

In June, 1999, at the age of fourteen, Marriner won the Ottawa Blues Harp Blow-Off, an annual battle of harmonica players held at The Rainbow Bistro.

The reviewer states that there are "glimmers of real talent on this album", such as Marriner's rare ability to play the "complexities of a Flamenco beat".

[9] Another review notes the album's "nods to harp legends Little Walter, Junior Wells and Kim Wilson, and states that Marriner's "tight band fan the flames of tradition with a scorching sound for the 21st century.

"[10] The review states that "Marriner proves himself an adept singer/songwriter who writes highly melodic tunes that are energetic and full of catchy hooks, reminiscent of Delbert McClinton".

"[10] Overall, the review states that the "highlight [is his] blistering harmonica playing", which has a "natural sense of blues phrasing with a down-home, gritty tone."

Jazzreview.com states that with its "solid performances and slick production, Going Up is a strong premiere by a driven young blues maverick with crossover potential and all the makings of a star.

"[10] Marriner is the frontman/lead singer and baritone guitar player of MonkeyJunk, a Canadian rock'n'roll/swamp/blues band signed to Stony Plain Records.