random hip displacement

Favorites Mid Year

2011-07-05T07:16:00.000-07:00

I haven't written nearly as much as I should this year and perhaps haven't listened to as many new albums as I'd like but that won't stop me from writing anything mid year. It's pretty funny as a lot of what I've been listening to is what I was listening to in 2003. Thursday, Yellowcard, Taking Back Sunday, Death Cab for Cutie, why it's 2003 all over again. I've been enjoying them quite a bit as well as some other stellar new discs so let's see what is good this year.

DOUG HOYER-WALKS WITH THE TENDER & GROWING NIGHT

Doug just dropped his new album last week but I've already played it numerous times. It's the catchy, witty pop music that I've known from Doug over the years but now in a crisp full length package. Check out this track off the disc with the delightful Jessica Jalbert and fall in love. I dare you not to.

CULTS-CULTS

For a band that's the first signed to Lilly Allen's new label, they definitely do sound like a band that is signed to her new label. But, that's not such a bad thing. This album is definite summer jams, and whenever I hear it I just want to be driving down some back roads with the windows down and these tunes blaring. Soft tunes with a hint of motown and old soul, check out their album stat.

THURSDAY- NO DEVOLUCION

Thursday will always be one of my favorites. My first trip ever to Vancouver was to see Thursday play with Minus the Bear as well as ISIS, but it was Thursday at the time I was most excited to see. I love the music, Geoff's vocals and lyrics, and with Common Existence their last effort they were looking very sharp indeed. This album though takes their music and drenches it in post-rock thanks to influences like Envy, and makes it one of their best yet. Constantly evolving, and no devolving.

DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE- CODES & KEYS

When I had heard that the new DCFC album would be a bit different, and would focus on synths, programming, even more keys, I was a bit excited. People were worried that it would be weird or completely different from what they knew, but since I love Postal Service so much, I wasn't too worried. This album from beginning to end is as good as Transatlanticism, and that is a fact. No duds, just great music being made, even if it's created differently from other DCFC. Great disc.

RURAL ALBERTA ADVANTAGE- DEPARTING

First off, let me say that this is one of my favorite music videos in a very long time. It's ridiculously adorable and that's a fact. This album I've been waiting for, for quite some time it seems and it doesn't disappoint. The themes of love and the cold and all that Nils knows so well are conveyed brilliantly on this album, and the music writing overall is taken up a notch from Hometowns. Give this one a listen soon if you can.

MIRACLE FORTRESS- WAS I THE WAVE?

I've been a fan of Graham's tunes for some time now, but it's been a little while since he put anything out and I was worried that MF was over and done with. Then suddenly, Was I the wave? came out and I got excited all over again. Warm vocals blistered over synth-y numbers, this is another album that screams out summer jams. One of my favorites of the year and hopefully it'll become one of yours as well.

GIVERS- IN LIGHT

I saw Givers open for Ra Ra Riot earlier this year and fell in love. Their afro-percussion indie rock is super catchy and if you like your Vampire Weekend, BLCK JCKS or some Paul Simon then I think you will dig. The album beginning to end will put a smile on your face and it's been getting tons of play in the car whilst stuck in disgusting Vancouver traffic, so I would say definitely give it a chance, it's a gem that's for sure.

PAUL SIMON- SO BEAUTIFUL OR SO WHAT

Speaking of Simon, I'm completely in wondrous awe at his new album. That the man can still churn out some of the best music I've heard at this stage in his career is amazing to me. If you love Graceland, as really you should, then you need to check out this album. As I was saying with Givers, it's got a heavy afro-percussion vibe but his lyrics and voice are still tops in the music world I'd say. Add this to your collection immediately.

CHAD VANGAALEN- DIAPER ISLAND

While Diaper Island isn't too much of a departure from his last album, it seems more finely crafted and honed. The instrumentation seems far more elaborate and Chad's lyrics seem a bit more to the point and less imbued with wanderlust, even if upon casual listening that's what it seems. Great chill out disc though, and the new music video is Mr VanGaalen at his finest.

PASCALE PICARD- A LETTER TO NO ONE

This young girl from Quebec has one of my most favorite voices in Canadian music and this album is a pretty fantastic little number. While almost entirely in English, I'm not complaining. There's some really good songs here and they're quite catchy in general. I'm a big fan and this album continues to get more and more play in my iPod that's for sure.

EXPLOSIONS IN THE SKY- TAKE CARE TAKE CARE TAKE CARE

Explosions always takes you on a musical journey, and this album does just that. Just listen to this song, and that's about all I need to say about them. Geniuses.

This Years Van Folk Fest

2011-05-15T16:27:00.000-07:00

So the lineup has been fully revealed for this years Vancouver Folk Fest and i'm pretty excited about it. I went last year and while it was tons of fun, I had hopes that maybe they would add more Canadian acts, especially bigger indie acts (is there such a thing, bigger indie, anyways). Well the lineup is out and it's pretty solid I must say, especially thanks to having Joel Plaskett Emergency, Danny Michel, Elliott Brood, Buck 65, the Burning Hell, Jim Bryson & the weakerthans, as well as having some of my other favorites such as Josh Ritter and Justin Townes Earle. Even going through the list of acts there's quite a few other acts that I really want to see like Emily Wells and Graveyard Train. So really, you can't beat a weekend of hanging out at Jericho Beach, going to workshops, checking out all the little vendors and enjoying some fantastic fok and world music. Here's some sampling of some of the people I'm excited to see, enjoi!

Elliott Brood- Fingers and Tongues

Justin Townes Earle- Midnight at the Movies

Jim Bryson & the weakerthans- Freeways in the Frontyard

Joel Plaskett Emergency- Maybe We Should Just Go Home

Graveyard Train- Tall Shadow

Emily Wells- Passenger

Imaginary Cities- Where'd all the Living Go

the Duhks- Mists of Down Below

BUCK 65- Dang!

See ya there!

Sasquatch 2011

2011-02-13T18:51:00.000-08:00

So the lineup is out now for this years Sasquatch, and, in general it's pretty good. Nothing too super crazy like I was hoping for, and maybe that was all dreaming large ( I guess if Daft Punk isn't playing Coach they won't play Sasq) but still it's all around pretty good I would say. Sadly though I reckon that myself and Amy won't be attending the whole weekend, as it's 4 days now and such, but I think we're going to be going to the Saturday of Sasquatch. And why is that you may ask, well let's just have a little rundown of the Saturday lineup.

Death Cab
Bright Eyes
Iron & Wine
Wolf Parade
Local Natives
Sleigh Bells
Thermals
CSS
Matt & Kim
Jenny & Johny
Bassnectar
Robyn
Pink Martini
K-Os
Antlers
Aloe BLacc
Wye Oak
J Mascis
Dan Mangan
Washed Out

and a few more.
Yeah, i'd say that's worth the 80 bucks to go down to the Gorge, so i'm pretty excited for that. So until then, i'll just post random videos for who i'm excited for. So let's start with something a bit random, that being, J MASCIS.

2010 Top Picks

2011-01-16T21:21:00.000-08:00

1. Jonsi- Go
It's been along time I believe since I have become as obsessed with an album as I did this year when Sigur Ros frontman Jonsi but out his sophmore album (technically if you consider Jonsi and Alex's Riceboy as his first as most do). If I could choose one word to describe the album, it would be fantastical. The lush melodies and harmonies, Jonsi's falseto voice soaring and wavering, the organic feel of the instruments and the synthesizers, this is chamber pop at it's grandest. I have listened to this album hundreds and hundreds of times and feel I will never tire of it. Nothing short of amazing, definite top pick of the year easy.

2. Caribou- Swim
The new Caribou album came this year, and with it came high expectations for another marvelous piece of electro pop genius much in the same vein as Daniel Snaith's Polaris winning Andorra. Swim, did not disappoint in the least. From beginning to end the album ebbs and flows with electro and synth buzz, and sing-songy harmonies that tied the perfect thirty five minutes together into a piece of aural heaven. One of Canada's finest musicians and one of the best listens of the year.

3. Diamond Rings- Special Affections
I've been a fan of Ontario indie rockers the D'urbervilles for a couple years now and always look forward to hearing new tunes from them, but when I found out that singer John O'Regan was giving his solo project a push I figured I would give it a listen. I am most certainly glad that I did and I'm sure that at some point most of you have already caught the dance synth pop wonder that is Diamond Rings. This album became an instant hit in my iTunes after only one listen, as the beats hooked me in, but the baritoned glam voice of O'Regan which contrasts quite nicely with the music became a highlight. I love my synth pop and welcomed the voice as well as the lyrics instantly hooked me. An up and comer that you really can't afford to miss out on.

4. Gaslight Anthem- American Slang
Over the last number of years Gaslight have become a band that I grow to love more and more as the days and months pass by. When they announced they were working on a new disc I was a little skeptical as I loved 59 Sound and still listen to it with as much passion as the first time I heard it a couple years ago. Well they put out American Slang, and it was everything I had loved about Gaslight and even more. The band truly is starting to feel more and more like their own now, and really growing into their own sound and not strictly a band ripping off Springsteen. Their love for motown and old soul really stands out on this album, and the greatest difference is definitely in the backing harmonies on most of the tracks, making the band sound even more full. This album is phenomenal and if you dig rock and or roll music, definitely get into this disc.

5. Joanna Newsom- Have One On Me
Ms. Newsom is someone that I have loved for years now, and some have often questioned that love as for some it's very hard to get around her very distinct vocal style. I've always loved it and embraced her quirkiness and her lyrics (Peach Plum Pear being an all time favorite song, hands down) but it was with this triple album that I grew to love Ms. Newsom even more. The songs all vary quite differently and her vocals seem to be a little toned down, which is good or band I suppose depending who you are. If nothing else it makes this album or at least singles from it more accessible to people not so familiar with her work. It's a very lengthy disc, but put it in while travelling, or sitting at home on a rainy day and let it soak in and you won't regret it. A risky offering, but a success in my books.

6. Provincial Archives- Maybe We Could Be Holy
Edmonton Prairie Boys first album Nameless Places easily became one of my all time favorite albums put out by a local artist, or a Canadian artist, or possibly ever. I loved everything about that album, from Craig Schrams lyrics and vulnerable voice, to the bluegrass and folk sounds of the music they created. When they had said they were working on new tunes and a new album I was very much excited for what to expect, and they took what worked for them with their first album and took it up a notch. Experimentation with an even larger assortment of instruments as well as some electro programming and beats slid in here and there make for the best album to listen to while driving across the prairies, or out by Surrey if you live on the west coast as that's where all the farms are.

7. Mass Choir- Live My Life on the Backbeat
A surprise album from another group of friends, I had heard that they were working on something new but wasn't sure what to expect. Once I had heard that an influence was old KLF then I knew that I was going to be in for a treat, and this album doesn't disappoint in the least. Fueled by early 90's dance and techno music this is a phenomenal dance rock disc that is perfect for partying and as well one that translates fantastically in their live show. The male/female harmonies work quite well throughout the album and are always a treat and the beats are nonstop. This is a must own party disc, fistpumps are also mandatory.

8. Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross- The Social Network OST
At first I thought that a movie about the creation of facebook would be kind of boring and not super interesting. Then I found out that Jesse Eisenberg was involved, and as he has grown into one of my favorite new actors, adding him with David Fincher directing I was getting sold on the movie. Then I found out that Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross would be doing the soundtrack for the movie, and that got me all kinds of excited. I haven't been so obsessed with a soundtrack or score since Mogwai and Kronos Quartet joined forces for the Fountain, and it's that same kind of obsession that has made me listen to this album more than most others since it came out in the summer time. Reznors moody tones, stripped down piano work, and glitchy reworking of Hall of the Mountain King suited the movie fantastically but as well is perfect for wandering around the city or heading home from work.

9. Sleigh Bells- Treats
One of my new favorite subgenres or whatever you want to call labels for styles of music is definitely noise-pop. Over the last couple years I've become a fan of lots of artists I never thought I would have, like No Age, Abe Vigoda, Wavves, and other artists that combine noisy sampling and sounds overlapped with warped but still lush harmonies and poppy melodies. Sleigh Bells took all of that one step farther with glitchy noisy beats and guitar riffing, but phenomenal female vocals overtop and sampled and mixed over. An album a couple years ago I probably would have hated, became another obsession this year, and as well, 'Slay' provide one of the most hypnotic and groove charged live shows I've seen in a long time. Another new up and coming band that you should keep an eye on.

10. Daniel Moir- Road
Daniel has become one of my favorite peoples and musicians in Edmonton over the last number of years, and once he started to play some new songs in his set I was excited for this disc to come out. Over the past few years of seeing him perform he just keeps getting better and better and an even greater songwriter, and this definitely shows on this album. An even greater range of subject matter is tackled in his lyrics, as well his arrangements and guitar playing are topnotch. This kid is great and keeps getting better as the years go by, I expect nothing short of fantastic things from this fine lad from Edmonton, someone to keep your eyes on for sure.

Best of the Year starting to Wrap up

2010-11-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't been writing in this thing for a little bit now, i've been a little busy with life and adventures and such. But, this hasn't meant that I haven't been listening to music that is for sure. I figured I would start to dump out all the stuff I have been digging this year and see what is going to end up on my top ten list of the year. So here we go, if you haven't listened to any of these, well you should get on it.

Jonsi- Go
Caribou- Swim
Woodhands- Remorscapade
The National- High Violet
Sleigh Bells- Treats
Surfer Blood- Astro Coast
Yeasayer- Odd Blood
Diamond Rings- Special Affections
Gaslight Anthem- American Slang
Hey Marseilles- To Travels and Trunks
Daniel Moir- Road
Provincial Archive- Maybe We Could Be Holy
Vampire Weekend- Contra
Joana Newsom- Have One on Me
Circa Survive- Blue Sky Noise
The Get Up Kids- Simple Science
The Sword- Warp Riders
Deftones- Diamond Eyes
Four Year Strong- Enemy of the World
Freelance Whales- Weathervanes
Suuns- Zero QC
Tallest Man On Earth- the Wild Hunt
Shad- TSOL
Mass Choir- Live My Life on the Backbeat
Mitchmatic- Two Weeks Off

So there's some of the things i've liked this year tho i feel like i'm forgetting some more of my friends albums. There's still the new Day To Remember and a few more things coming out that i'll take a listen to, and then post up my tops of the year sometime next month, check it out.

Lo Fi Goodness

2010-08-21T09:49:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been listening to a charming little group from California that goes by the name of Best Coast. Maybe you've heard of them? They're definitely setting the indie world on fire with their new disc and have been continuing to build on the buzz with a tight live show, showcasing Bethany's sun drenched harmonies that are buried in the fuzz of their lo fi goodness. Definitely a band that you should keep your eyes on and listen to, as well as CROCODILES, another great band from the mighty U S and A. It definitely seems that hook laden lo-fi is the rage these days and really I can't complain. CROCODILES are another great band to add to the mix and are worth checking out, especially jangly rocker Summer of Hate.

Good jams, check it.

Best Coast- When I'm With You

CROCODILES- Summer of Hate

Warped Tour

2010-08-05T22:55:00.001-07:00

You would think that after almost a decade of going to Warped Tour I would be getting sick of it, but as I am now on the west coast and I get to go to the Gorge for it, I'm actually pretty excited. The lineup is ok for the most part, alot of bands that I'm not super interested in seeing, but for all the ones that I'm not that into, there's definitely some that I am excited to see. Here is a quick rundown of who I can't wait to see next weekend at Warped.

Suicide Silence- every now and then I need some quality metal in my life. This band is lately who I have been going to when I need that fix. Check it.

Alkaline Trio- one of my favorite punk bands of the last decade, so very excited to get to see them as per usual. Great shows and great times to be had. This song is one of my favorites I think of there's and maybe you'll like it too.

Reel Big Fish- there will always be a home in my heart for ska, and ska core as well. My brother and myself thrived on it during the 3rd wave, and if there's a good ska band to be found at Warped, i'll probably be right there. Excited for RBF, haven't seen them in years so should be a fun time.

Every Time I Die- one of the most fun live bands in my opinion, always ridiculous, always fun times to be had whenever ETID hit the stage. One of my most anticipated sets of the day and of the year as it's been awhile since I've seen them. Should be pretty amazing, that's for sure.

Mayday Parade- probably my most favorite new pop punk bands of the last few years, very excited to see these guys set as I always seem to miss it at Warped. Not this time though, also this song is one of my favorites of the last few years as well. Enjoy.

The Rocket Summer- Bryce would definitely have to be one of the most positive, happiest people I have ever met and seen perform in my life. His music is very much so poppy, but his harmonies are killer and you can't help but smile while listening to his tunes. Excited for his set that is for sure.

Set Your Goals- if there is one set that I will probably be up close to the front, singing along, this is the one.

I'll write more after Warped and post on my thoughts, and what it's like going to the festival in a non dust bowl for once in my life. Sorry Calgary, but i'm sure the Gorge may win out as a better venue.

I Choose You Calexico

2010-07-17T23:08:00.000-07:00

I spent all day today at the Vancouver Folk Fest, and it was definitely an enjoyable experience, and definitely a different one from the other Folk Fests that I have been to, namely in Calgary in Edmonton. I would have to say that the set up at Jericho Park was definitely better than the set ups in Edmonton and Calgary, though all in all it definitely felt alot smaller than the other Fests back east. I'm sure there's reasons for it, and even the lineup seemed a bit lighter than others, though they are pretty up front in their festival guide about funding cuts and whatnot so I can see why it may not be as stacked as other Fests. I think that there is some room for growth though and I would love to see that happen while i'm out here. Regardless, I spent the day in the sun, and enjoyed some super amazing music. Highlight of the day though was definitely seeing Calexico, Bahamas and Alex Cuba play together. While it started off awkward as Cuba ended up being a bit late, everything flowed very smoothly and it was an enjoyable workshop through and through. I would like to note as well that Calexico are probably one of the best group of musicians I have ever seen. Those guys can pick up on any song and add their own little touches, and sometimes huge touches to the songs.

The best though was that they all played He Lays in the Reigns, from the Calexico and Iron & Wine EP, which is a gorgeous song, and as they played it I got goosebumps. On my legs and arms. In the already very toasty morning sun. If that's not proof of an amazing song then I don't know what is. Hear for yourself here.

So all in all it was a great day, full of sun and hangouts with my best friend, and seeing other great musicians such as Deep Dark Woods, Timber Timbre, Playing For Change, Matt Epp, Crooked Still and closing out the evening was the delightful Sarah Harmer, who has once again stolen my heart. If you are unfamiliar with her, she is a fantastic singer songwriter and one of my favorite Canadian musicians easily. Enjoy a bit of her tunes as well, a sun burnt gift from me to you.

We need more Dance Parties

2010-07-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

A year or so ago I got offered the chance to do a show with an individual and also his group that went by the name of The Tremulance. I sadly was swamped that month with other shows so I had to pass on it and send them to another of the venues back in Edmonton.

Man alive I am still bummed that I didn't do that show. The Tremulance (from Abbey, BC) make fantastically moveable dance music that even if you aren't where you can dance to it, you'll still be tapping your toes and bobbing your head, ever so slightly. On top of Jamison's (head dude) original tracks he makes, he also makes a healthy dose of remixes of some of your favorite indie type tracks, and some of which, like the Phoenix one for 1901 has been picked up by the creators and spread for all to enjoy. And hey, if Phoenix like this guys remixes and tunes then you probably should too.

Scope it.

And to hear more remixes and tracks go here.

JDH

2010-07-07T14:05:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back I was introduced to a fine young artist from out here on the west coast, Jonny Hughes, who goes by the little stage name of JDH. Saw him perform in Victoria and instantly became a fan of his tunes. With just himself a laptop and some gear he makes some sweetly sounding indie pop tunes, and with a vulnerable yet can turn fierce sounding vocal style. I really dug his vocals and they reminded me a bit of scottish group We Were Promised Jetpacks whom I love, but as well his catchy synths and beats also won me over and they were better than most Owl City tracks that's for sure. Definitely a stand out track for me is Good Morning, super dancey beats and some solid layering going on there.

If you go here you can hear his tunes on ye olde myspace.

If you go here you can go to his website itself and grab tunes off it for free, but make sure you give him some love back.

As well go here to read a stellar review of Jonny's albums and a bit more about him and his life, which is pretty miraculous and awesome by the by.

A little help from my friends

2010-07-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

Back in Edmonton there is a fantastic group of musicians that form a familial unit of sorts and they put out some really great music. If you feel so inclined then you should check out the Old Ugly and perhaps you will find something you like. Super talented singers songwriters rappers and electronic type music makers. But at the forefront of this group is one mr. Joe Gurba, aka The Joe. An insanely talented rapper with brilliant lyrics and delivery, and if he feels so inclined, he can rap faster than your poor second cousin that's addicted to speed. Or not. Maybe that was a bad example. Regardless Joe is a phenomenal person and performer and I just finally stumbled across this video for his song "You're Cool" which is one of my favorites off his past album Ut Oh, and also features alot of my friends and sites around Edmonton. You should watch it and enjoy and perhaps go to the above link and grab some Old Ugly tunes for yourself. Do it, it's good for your soul and heart, like delicious warm tea.

the Casket Lottery

2010-07-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

A few years back a friend of mine introduced me to a great band called Limbeck, and as well Doghouse Records. Just lots of really great bands generally from the American midwest and many had great alt country and folk influences in them as well. One band that I discovered out of this was the Casket Lottery, which was formed out of another great, albeit heavier band, Coalesce. Anyways, Casket Lottery play great indie rock music, with alot of emotion and I would place them definitely with the great emo bands also of the late 90's. Really catchy hooks, and very intelligent lyrics, Casket Lottery are a great band that most people should listen to and get to know, as there still may be some new Casket Lottery in the near future. Dig.

Shapes Stars Make

2010-07-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to more and more post-rock it seems, like alot more and i'm not sure why this has transpired. I've always been a fan of bands like Tortoise and Godspeed and Mogwai, but lately more and more i've been listening to this type of music, and as well it seems there's alot of these bands that come from Texas. I wonder why that is? Explosions, This Will Destroy You, and now Shapes Stars Make all hail from the lonestar state but I wonder what it is that inspires these bands to experiment with structures and tones and make such sweeping and epic songs. Well, regardless of this I found out about Shapes Stars Make from a friend of mine and i've been enjoying them quite a bit, especially with michael goodens lush vocals giving an added punch to this trios tracks. Definitely becoming a fan of theirs, and handily enough they are coming through town very soon, so added to the list of amazing upcoming shows, you should join me perhaps if you enjoy them too (and live in Van of course).

I Find This Fitting

2010-07-02T18:54:00.001-07:00

Today I was hit by a truck. Nothing too badly. The driver hit the brakes with enough time to slide into me, but as that truck was coming at me I just froze. It's a little terrifying actually come to think about it. In the end though I just had some bruising on my side where the truck hit me and I stumbled but was alright. Now that i'm home I started listening to some music and remembered an awesome group from texas called THIS WILL DESTROY YOU.

See, fitting.

Anyways I really do enjoy some quality post rock, Fractal Pattern still being my favorite band from my hometown of Edmonton and Explosions in the Sky being one of the best bands I have ever seen live. So if you like that kind of epic textural sound, and 8 plus minute long songs with some noisy intense build ups, then perhaps you would enjoy This Will Destroy You. Definitely one of my favorites of the last couple years now and luckily they are heading to the pacific northwest in a month. I recommend you check them out, you won't be disappointed.

This Will Destroy You if you let it.

The UK likes to boogie woogie

2010-06-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

I was looking around for some new tunes to listen to so I started to do that thing, where you go to a band you like on myspace, and then click on one of their top friends, and then on to another band and then another, and so forth. Anyways I came across this really awesome dance trio from the UK called TEETH, who make some pretty stellar tunes that are heavy on the drums and on the synths, and as well I instantly became a fan of Veronica So's vocals. Definitely an act you should check out if you are looking for some new dance rock kind of tunes.

TEETH

As well I came across another British group of individuals who were making some also catchy indie dance rock tunes, called PENS. Watching some of their videos and listening to their tunes i really dug the washed over sounds and loved the combo of the synths and the drums driving the tunes. Sadly they apparently just broke up, like about two weeks ago. But you can still enjoy their music here.

PENS

And perhaps you'd enjoy a video to go with that. Here's a sweet PENS one also for you.

Sleepless Nights from Halifax

2010-06-30T11:07:00.000-07:00

So last year I did a really awesome show during Sled Island, which meant the show overall didn't do so well in Edmonton, as most people were in Calgary for Sled Island. Fleetwood Mac was also the same night which also was not so good. But that is how it goes when you do shows, but for those that made it out to the show, they were in for a helluva treat from a great band from the East Coast, Sleepless Nights. This band plays some ferociously catchy indie rock, and is definitely for you if you like bands like Two Hour Traffic or Wintersleep or even Thrush Hermit or some of the other amazing bands that seem to come out of Canada's glorious Maritimes. Their songs are catchy to the nth degree, sometimes with hilariously insightful lyrics into life out east, and the guitar duo riffs like there is no to tomorrow. Not sure when they will head out west again, but if they do make sure to check them out. To see what you would be in for, watch this.

They also like to give away free tunes from time to time so if you go here you can probably snag some free tunes as well.

Hey Marseilles! Goodbye Versailles!

2010-06-29T17:51:00.000-07:00

Continuing in my trend of either loving bands from the northeast or the northwest comes Seattle's Hey Marseilles. A fine little assembly of seven talented music makers, the singer and chief lyricist Matt Smith writes some powerful poetic pieces, while cellos and violins and keys amongst other instruments are what build this bands luscious melodies. Probably one of the best bands i've listened to in a while and looking forward to more great things. As well, they made a pretty fantastical new video for their song 'Rio' which you should watch here.

As well, you can download that song for free of their site, if you didn't catch that. So, just click here to go to the site and download it. Do it, it'll make your heart sing.

archeology

2010-06-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

A little while ago I was discovering alot of really awesome bands in the Pacific Northwest, just randomly going through myspace pages and finding that there was some really great talent out here on the west coast. One of the groups I really dug was Archeology from Portland. Really awesome folk rock group with great lyrics and jangly guitar riffs and catchy harmonies. Have definitely been a fan and remembered they made a pretty awesome music video. You should watch it, and maybe you will enjoy them too.

Circa Survive

2010-06-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

I honestly don't understand how this band continues to put out such fantastic albums. In my opinion they are three for three, for all their phenomenal songwriting, song structures, and also especially it's Anthony Greens voice that consistently blows me away. I've seen this band a couple of times and they have such a fierce stage presence it's terrifying how good they are. Especially though Green's voice. I have never seen a singer project his voice to the levels that Green is capable of, it's seriously staggering. Their new album is out and I am definitely digging on it, and here is one of the newer songs.

As well, here is a favorite of mine, an older one but still oh so good.

No Sleep Till Brooklyn

2010-06-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

I should seriously just move to New York and get it over with. Well, after I live in Vancouver for a while I guess. But still, there are so many great musicians coming out of there, Brooklyn in particular, that I just can't get over it. Small Black are another band that I have fallen in love with. Kind of lo-fi washed out electro pop music, their EP is fantastic from beginning to start, and their tunes just kind of melt all over you.

Dreamy good goodness.

the saddest song ever sung

2010-06-29T10:12:00.000-07:00

Some of you may know of Bob Wiseman. Some may not. He is a talented Canadian musician who was in Blue Rodeo back in the day, and in the early 90's when they were starting to take off, he left the band. So it goes, but he is a very talented man in his own right and has continued to make amazing music since then.

Usually pretty happy stuff, but then there is Uranium.

My friend Doug sang this song once at a gathering at one of my old places when I had some musician friends over, and we were all hanging out and passing a guitar around and singing songs. Doug sang this, and it blew my mind, it's beautiful but the saddest thing ever.

You have been warned.

freelance whaling

2010-06-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

If there is one band i've been listening to more than any other as of late, it would be Freelance Whales from Brooklyn. I stumbled upon them rather randomly earlier this year and once they finally put out their album I was elated. Fantastic indie pop music, with harmonies that will make your ears melt from sheer joy and happiness. I definitely feel a bit of Sufjan influence in their stuff, which makes a bit of sense based on where they come from but they are a band that you should pay attention to.

Just sayin.

They are touring the states with Tokyo Police Club I believe in August, and hopefully they can make their way across the border. If not, I feel a trip to Seattle is definitely in order just to see them play.

John Boutte and Treme

2010-06-29T01:01:00.000-07:00

So I recently become obsessed with Treme. If you haven't heard of it, it's a new HBO show set in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina hits, and it's about the people there trying to get back to their lives and a fair amount of intertwining of tales takes place. Also, music plays a huge role in the show as it does I am most certain down in the Big Easy. The theme of the show is sung by John Boutte, a great and talented singer from down there, whom I got to see play at queen alex hall a bit back. Fantastic voice and definitely someone you should get to know.

Capitol Hill Block Party

2010-06-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

So I am going to Capital Hill Block Party down in Seattle in one month, and I'm getting pretty excited for it. At first it was kind of like, ok cool I'm going to that. But as it creeps up, i'm really excited to see alot of random and hopefully awesome bands. While in general the lineup is a hipster awesomefest with bands such as

Yeasayer
Shabazz Palaces
Bear In Heaven
Holy Fuck
MGMT
Jaguar Love
Mad Rad
Champagne Champagne
Fences
Atmosphere
Blonde Redhead
Harlem
The Dutchess and the Duke
!!!
Obits
The Dead Weather
Cynic
Night Marchers
Blitzen Trapper

and you know, more. There is one band however that has definitely grabbed my attention, and that is The Drowning Men. Definitely caught my ear and am really digging this song in particular.

Stay tuned as I gear up for this first festival, it should definitely be one helluva weekend.

Music Waste

2010-06-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

I suppose while the memories are still somewhat fresh in my mind, I should write a little bit about my Music Waste experiences. Well you see, every year here in Vancouver they have a little indie music festival called Music Waste, over a span of many days at lots of different venues, art spaces, dive bars and pubs and whatnot, and lots of people come together for this wonderful celebration. As I was just moving to Vancouver I figured maybe I could see some sweet bands and meet some amazing people if I volunteered and did doors, as I so often do.

So the first night I volunteered at Zoo Zhop, and it was super awesome. It's a little record shop, with a bit of random other cool record shop things, as well as an artists co op type deal. So to sum it all up, it is a great little hang out of really talented people. I did doors for most of the night, which consisted of me sitting on a chair with a cashbox in a hallway and making sure not too many people were drinking out front. Most of the bands were pretty solid I would definitely say. Bleating Hearts had the best use of a french horn that i've heard since Fractal Pattern, Half Chinese were noisy rock awesome, Collapsing Opposites were as pop rock as ever and sadly were playing their last show, but my personal favorite was Canaries. This tight little 3 piece played screechy dance rock, with tinges of post hardcore awesomeness. They were pretty heavy on the synths, as well the drummer liked to bust out the trumpet from time to time. Everyone was moving and while the recordings are only ok, you definitely need to see them live.

The second night I worked doors with sweet local promoter Lynzaii, and we worked it up at Pat's Pub, way down and off East Hastings. All in all it was pretty fun, and even crazier than the first night. I think all in all there was well over 200 people there that night and the local goers were none too happy, but I think most people had fun. Sweet dudes from Edmonton Brazilian Money opened up the night and were stellar as always, as well Apollo Ghosts who closed the night had everyone in the pub, and I do mean everyone dancing. But as always it was Plus Perfect that stole it for me. I did a show with them last year, and they are one of my favorite bands in Canada easily. Always a pleasure and always a great show. Here, watch this video of them playing in fort mac on a deck.

Yes it was definitely a great weekend for music and made some fantastic friends. I'm definitely looking forward to even more adventures here in Vancity so stay tuned.

Whoah 2010

2010-06-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

Wow.

I cannot believe I haven't written anything on this blog pretty much since last year. I don't even know where to start actually, there's been so much great music and so many amazing concerts that i've been to already, and i'm gearing up for festival time in the pacific northwest, starting with Capital Hill Block Party in Seattle, Bumbershoot in Seattle, and then MusicfestNW in Portland as well.

It'll be busy for sure. I think I shall start writing again in this blog though to at least stay in touch with music friends back home and highlight maybe some sweet people I have seen here and just general music ramblings and whatever I feel like writing about.

Oh also, my favorite album of the year is Jonsi, easily, and I keep meeting people that went to his concerts at the Vogue a bit back.

I am insanely jealous and would kill to see him live. Just saying.

Click here to see why.

yeah that's why. ugh. amazing.

top twenty sets of 09

2009-12-30T05:25:00.000-08:00

so here is my little wrap up of the top sets of 2009. i guess i should say shows, but due to the fact that i went to tons of shows, and that i went to lots of festivals and such i think i'll just put down the top sets of the year. i would just like to point out that i was very fortunate to travel around a bit, and hit up alot of amazing shows out of town, i guess i could make a top ten of sets from out of town and top ten in edmonton, we'll see how it goes.

1. bon iver- sasquatch
2. explosions in the sky- sasquatch
3. the get up kids- neumos
4. isis- neumos
5. rural alberta advantage- brixx
6. sunny day real estate- commodore
7. peace- wyrd fest
8. ra ra riot- sasquatch
9. gobble gobble- wyrd fest
10. treelight room- hydeaway
11. library voices- hydeaway
12. baroness- club vegas
13. therefore i am- warped
14. weakerthans- winspear
15. torngat- hydeaway
16. monotonix- sasquatch
17. joan baez- winspear
18. famines- hydeaway
19. the mae shi- pawn shop
20. lovely feathers- hydeaway

there's probably even more that i should be putting on there. i'm really bad tho at keeping track of everyone i have seen, and people like laura barrett and sun kil moon should def be on there. maybe i'll put some more thought into it and revise, but for now i think that's pretty solid. now i just have to make it out to vancouver to see Phoenix and next year will be off to a great start.

Top Twenty for 09

2009-12-13T13:54:00.000-08:00

So I put together my list for my Top Twenty of the year. As always my discretion is that these are all albums that I absolutely adore, for many reasons. For the songwriting, harmonies, instruments, and whatever else. It's usually pretty varied and this list covers my most loved albums of the year, and the ones that I feel are the best all around, of everything that I have listened to. Which is generally alot. I'll do a write up after the school year is done and make it a bit more in depth, but here they are.

1]Phoenix- wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
2]Rural Alberta Advantage- hometowns
3]Baroness- blue album
4]GOBBLE GOBBLE- neon graveyards
5]Treelight Room- the children win
6]ISIS- wavering radiant
7]Green Go- borders
8]The Low Anthem- oh my god, Charlie Darwin
9]Grizzly Bear- Vecatimest
10]Headaches- Dirty Hairy
11]Mamiffer- Hirror Enniffer
12]Yeah Yeah Yeahs- It's Blitz
13]Dirty Projectors- Bitte Orca
14]Kisses of Fire- Only Mountains
15]Dan Mangan- Nice, Nice, Very Nice
16]Converge- Axe to Fall
17]Bike Month- s/t
18]Yacht- See Mystery Lights
19]Black Diamond Bay- s/t
20]Wavves- Wavvves

WYRD Fest: a view from the side of the stage

2009-11-16T16:34:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday I had the opportunity to take part in the first ever WYRD Fest, a day long music festival celebrating the fringes of western Canadian music and including musicians and bands that cover a variety of genres and sub genres and sub sub genres. This was the first year of the festival and the hopes were that it would do well enough and there would be the support to potentially have a 2nd one, and so on after that. The festival was put together with tender loving care by mister Aaron Levin, operator of Cantor Records and foremost champion of the music that is most definitely not in the mainstream. I had offered to help out Aaron with whatever he needed and figured I would end up being the guy doing doors as I often do but instead ended up being the sound man for the main stage at the fest. This shocked and thrilled me to say the least. What follows is a brief recap of the day of events and a retelling as told from the side of the stage. Please note that this mostly pertains to my room that I was in charge of, as there was also a 2nd room with more bands but I only had a chance to check out Krang and Friendo that had played there.

Saturday 2:45pm. Showed up at the venue. Brought some veggies and dip and mandarin oranges for bands and such. Who doesn’t like Christmas oranges? Already people here at the venue including CJ Frena (of GOBBLE GOBBLE, and local promoter extraordinaire who is currently living in San Francisco). So good to see CJ, and already tons of other awesome people here.

3:30pm. Just setting up the sound for the big room. The past year of doing sound has been good to me, and I know a thing or two, but thank the heavens for CJ and Graham. Def tons of help. Getting things rolling.

4:40pm. The sound is pretty much good to go. Tons of troubles finding extra quarter inch cables and XLR cables and extension chords, but we improvise and get it going. Aaron is running around and super busy with getting the other room ready and organizing everything. What an organizer does right? Shocking. Meeting a few of the bands, everyone is sweet.

5:00pm. Festival is underway, everything is on time. We rule.

5:10pm. Just did a quick sound check with JAZZ, which is Aaron’s new band with Graham and another dude whose name I forget. Pretty noisy rock, got a good groove to it, I can dig. Sound is good, and we are good to go.

5:30pm. Jazz is on, right on time. Like I said we rule. Thank goodness that the drums set up are being used by Outdoor Miners and Wicked Awesomes. Alot less stress in dealing with changeover. Pretty sure a half hour though is plenty of time for changeover between bands.

6:05pm. Jazz is done. Found out that one of the fellows from Wicked Awesomes can’t play as he is incredibly ill. Not the swine I guess, but food poisoning. That sucks. Instead Peter, AKA Sans Aids is going to play, then Outdoor Miners.
6:20pm. Peeked in on Krang's set. Sounded pretty decent, really fuzzy stoner rock. Super fuzz. But sounded decent enough.

6:55pm. Sans Aids just played. Probably my favourite new local act. Its just Peter with a kick drum and snare set up that he can hit with his feet while playing guitar and singing. Mics are super sensitive and really picked up the snare, but it added an extra lo-fi feeling to the set. Great vocals too though, a sombre and unique sound. Sarcasm times a million. Great set.

7:20pm. Did a quick run through with Outdoor Miners. They are loud. Like really loud. They said they would turn it down a bit as at Likwid Lounge they were super intense. Lots of sweet friends here, definitely makes long shows go by faster.

8:00pm. Yup. Outdoor Miners. Loud. God bless earplugs. I feel bad for those that don’t have them.

8:10pm. Setting up the Ex Boyfriends from Calgary. Apparently they are punk rock. The singer is pretty nice, but a funny and really weird dude. Wearing yoga pants, and a faux fur coat and a giant hat. Looks like a pimp down on his luck. Seriously. All the band are funny though, drummer is the serious glue keeping them together.

8:45pm. The singer for the XBF’s is all over the place. Mixer almost got pulled off the table, thankfully Taylor caught it before tragedy befell us. Intense.

9:00pm. XBF’s barely ended on time. Close call, but all has been running smoothly. Lots of people here. Tons of fun.

9:15pm. Leave Graham in charge to help set up Grown Ups from Calgary. Finally met Josiah for the first time. He’s the singer. We’ve been facebook friends since summer thanks to Al from the WPP. Nice fellow. Off to get an energy drink. Sound is hard work.

9:25pm. Got an Amp energy drink. Haven’t had one in almost 2 months. Also had the last samosa that Aaron brought. So tasty. No Steel Wheels for this guy, though that’s where everyone has been hanging out drinking I would assume.

9:55pm. Grown Ups are done. Really tight set. Good 3 piece making quality rock. Crowd was getting into it.

10:10pm. Setting up the Famines. Favorite rock band in Edmonton. Best rock band in Edmonton. Just saying. God bless Raymond and Garrett.

10:20pm. Caught a bit of Friendo. I guess a super group from Calgary with a dude from Women. Mellow. With a capital M. Chill and awesome.

10:30pm. Famines are a go. Crowd is big. Rocking out is yes.

11:00pm. Best Famines set I have seen yet. Raymond was everywhere in the crowd. Garrett's drumming was ferocious. Sound was so loud. Again glad for earplugs that Nate gave me. Garrett grabbing the mic and singing out on the Sub with Raymond and a ton of people was awesome. Best rock band, hands down.

11:20pm. Getting ready for the GOBBLE GOBBLE set. CJ’s crazy setup is center stage, Corin and Calvin are getting dressed up in their matching crazy outfits. Percussion things and toys and various noisemaking devices are everywhere. Going to get crazy.

12:00am Sunday. GOBBLE GOBBLE set was killer. Phone video footage proves it. Everyone wanted to dance, and they did. Most of the big crowd was moving and shaking it. We were dancing a bit on stage. New Pixies cover and new tunes were good. Dancey noise pop at it’s finest. CJ definitely killed it. God bless him for flying up from San Fran for this.

12:15am. Caught a Sheering Pinx song. They were sounding pretty dece. Wish I could watch more. Back to clean up.

12:20am. Stage and floor are almost cleared from the aftermath of the GOBBLE GOBBLE set. Now setting up PEACE from Vancouver. Not sure what to expect. One of the guys Connor also plays in All Purpose Voltage Heroes, one of my all time favourite Edmonton bands, whom are keyboard driven dance rock I guess. Hopefully PEACE is good. Playing last, they probably are.

12:30am. Sound checking was good. Band sounded solid. Singer now has no pants.

12:35am. Aaron is thanking people and giving out prizes. There’s a ton of people here. Guess it’s been sold out for awhile now. That makes me happy. Love the support for the not really mainstream musicians.

12:50am. PEACE ARE AWESOME. Dancey joy division. This crowd is crazy. Had to keep a speaker from being pulled down twice, same with the mixing board. Lots of dance and mosh happening. Keep an eye out.

1:20am. Danced way too hard the last couple sets now. PEACE was mindblowing. The drummer took his underwear off about half way through, and played naked for the rest of the set. Alot of us were dancing on stage and going crazy. Too much fun. One of the most insane sets I have ever seen or been a part of. Amazing. Ridiculous. All of the above. This night has been so much work but so good.

2:00am. Still cleaning up and taking down the PA and everything. Corin and Calvin are showing me how to wrap cables efficiently. So terrible at it. Also really tired and want to sleep. Still alot of us helping out though. I love this city.

2:35am. There’s an after party at the Famines jam space and I want to go but am going home. Been a long day, definitely worth it though. Amazing. I love the unity here. So much fun with my friends and all the awesome new people I met. I wonder if other cities are this awesome.

3:10am. Bed time. Let’s do it again next year, yes?

Where The Wild Things Are soundtrack

2009-10-01T20:44:00.000-07:00

so, the other night my friend gave me a copy of the soundtrack for the upcoming film (and hopefully best movie of the year) Where The Wild Things Are, and i have pretty much been listening to it nonstop.

for those that don't know, the movie is directed by one mr spike jonze, who started off directing music videos, such as everyone's favorite, Weapon of Choice, with Christopher Walken dancing like there is no tomorrow. for the soundtrack he enlisted the help of his ex-girlfriend, Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs to come up with the music for the film, songs and scores. She then enlisted a handful of other fantastic indie musicians, including YYY bandmantes, and members of the Raconteurs and Deerhunter and more.

and let me tell you it payed off.

the soundtrack has a lighthearted cohesiveness to it that i just can't get enough of, and from incredibly playful and upbeat songs like All Is Love, to the eerily fragile vocals on Hidaway, Karen O has proved that she is up for any challenge. off the heels of her own bands fantastic release, It's Blitz, she unleashes this gem upon us and i couldn't be any happier. the other aspect that plays heavily in with the movie and adds to the playfulness of the soundtrack is the untrained childrens choir. on tracks like the previously mentioned Love, and on Rumpus the songs explode with an energy best represented by kids getting crazy and having fun, but also if you listen carefully, you can hear Karen's voice entwined with the childrens. but listen closely. it's magic, pure magic.

this is one of my favorite albums of the year, and a soundtrack rivaled only by some of my personal favorites such as The Fountain and Royal Tenenbaums. check it out, and watch this here.

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pop music

2009-09-30T10:55:00.001-07:00

it's not that i don't like pop music, i do have a soft spot in my heart for a really catchy, 3 and a half minute long song, but i generally do not have a chance to check out what's really popular and what is mainstream unless i search it out.

muchmusic and mtv rarely ever play music videos any more.

the radio has so many commercials and annoying dj's.

and my emusic subscription is solely for indie type stuff.

so really i have no idea what is going on, and what is popular and what is out there. sometimes that's not such a bad thing. there's alot of rap and r&b i really don't like, especially with tough guy posturing, and ridiculous lyrical content. give me back pack rap any day of the week. and there are some things that confuse me. such as.

how is Taylor Swift considered country?

i mean i'm assuming she gets tons of play on country stations and such, but any time i have heard her songs, she just comes across as a pop star. i hear nary a twang in her voice or song writing. pop music, that's all. and also, as much as everyone likes her.

well she is pretty boring. in my opinion anyways.

who is not boring, and is at the top of the game right now, as a female artist and as a pop star is of course lady gaga, and i must say i wrote her off. until i did some research. read some interviews. watched some videos and such.

she is definitely far from boring.

not in some time as well have i heard as much rumors as to where she has come from, and things about her that make her so bizarre. is she a stripper? is she a he she? is she from mars? does it really matter, she makes super catchy pop music, and you know, can actually write music and has a stellar set of pipes and has a ridiculous eye for fashion which always ends up being far more intersting than what anyone else is wearing. i even ended up buying her album. great disc by the by.

oh, and i clicked on the video for just dance, and noticed it has over SEVENTY SEVEN MILLION PLAYS!

how does that even happen? anyways, check out the video for poker face, probably my most favorite pop song of the year. oh lady gaga, thanks for making pop music interesting again.

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Get Up Kids

2009-09-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back I went to seattle and saw the Get Up Kids.

It was the greatest concert of my life.

here is a clip of the first 3 songs, and so you can get an idea of how sweet it was. please note that the venue holds about 600-700 people.

so good.
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Green Go

2009-09-30T10:18:00.000-07:00

So i did as show this past month (which seems even longer than that) with this amazing dance rock band from Guelph, that goes by the name of Green Go. you should definitely check them out for sure, especially if you like your dance music created by a band. i have nothing against dance music created by one or two people, especially as myself and kyle are about to embark on that journey ourselves, but sometimes when you have people singing, pounding on a kit, and "slappin da bass" there's just something i find that much more enticing about dance music being created live.

and Green Go did not disappoint.

there set was booty shaking goodness from beginning to end, and as well the last set included an epic jam out that was musically impressive and that also helped to work up a sweat that's for sure.

the album, Borders, which came out this year does a fairly decent job of capturing the live show. some of the songs i don't quite dig, the groove is only so so on, but songs like Brains For Breakfast and Cash Money Gremlins will make you if not completely move, at least tap your foot until it breaks. possibly. all throughout the album tho, even with some of the songs i feel only ok about, it's still a solid dance rock album that should be checked out, especially if you like Winter Gloves or Woodhands.

Green Go. watch out for this band. they'll continue to pick up steam. and won't stop.

bon iver plus sasquatch

2009-08-14T22:37:00.000-07:00

probably one of the greatest musical moments of the year.
if not my life.
still watching this video just gives me chills like none other.
go see mr. justin vernon if you ever get the chance.

definitely worth it.

these are my picks so far

2009-08-14T22:15:00.000-07:00

so since it's august right now, i figured i should at least put down some of my favorite albums of the year thus far, so feel free to talk amongst yourselves, complain about why so and so isn't on my list and the whatnot. please note though that these are my favorites, and not what i would say as the hands down definitive top albums of the year. i don't have enough time or ears to listen to all of that music. that being said, listen to these albums if you haven't.

phoenix- wolfgang amadeus phoenix
dirty projectors- bitte orca
the most serene republic- and the ever expanding universe
grizzly bear- veckatimest
mamiffer- hirror enniffer
green go- borders
the rural alberta advantage- hometowns
gobble gobble- neon graveyard
the low anthem- oh my god, charlie darwin
thrice- beggars
treelight room- the children win
isis- wavering radiant
the wind whistles- animals are people too
lightning dust- infinite light
pissed jeans- king of jeans
black mold- snow blindness is crystal antz

so there you go. there's more than a few albums for you to listen to if you haven't yet. definitely a few on there will make it to the end of the year list, excited for other albums to come out tho over the next few months. keep your ears open.

rhombusversary in advance

2009-08-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

so it has been brought to my attention, by myself that is, that i am coming up on a year of rhombus shows. this has kind of been blowing my mind.

i am super pumped that the hydeaway has been doing well and serving it's purpose in our music community over this last year now. i remember in our meetings and stuff talking about how we didn't want it to just kind of disappear after a few months. it's been almost a year and more and more sweet shows are coming up. oh hydeaway, one of the greatest things i have ever been a part of.

and not just there, but in other venues and doing other things, i think about some of the amazing talent that i have gotten to work with. doing my own shows tons of sweet local talent, and upcoming amazing folk like library voices, absent sound, the rural alberta advantage, laura barrett and more. working on other shows with foundation and working with sweet people like patrick watson, the bell orchestre folk, joel plaskett and his dad, and tv on the radio and the dirty projectors. awesome.

me and raymond b. had a little discussion at the recent famines show, and he asked how big i would be comfortable in getting, as far as promotion and stuff goes. honestly, i have no idea. all i know is that i get to keep working with amazing people, talented people, and people that in general have a love for what they are creating. i like to keep it positive, and as long as things are staying posi, then i'll keep on doing what i am doing.

please note that closer to october i'll do some sort of summary of rhombus shows and thoughts and all that kind of jazz. please note that there are some amazing shows coming up this fall that i'm masterminding. oh i can't wait...

The RAA

2009-05-17T09:37:00.000-07:00

So, ever since I stumbled across The Rural Alberta Advantage I have listened to this album way way too much. I think you should check it out too. and now you can as they have signed to Saddle Creek (you know, bright eyes, cursive, etc) so the album should be a bit more readily available. they get alot of neutral milk comparisons, which i find to be accurate, but every song is incredibly catchy, and also the fact that most of the songs are about alberta is an added bonus.

for real, check them out:

The Rural Alberta Advantage sing Edmonton

oh. you may get to see them sooner than you'd expect.

hyped!!

Sasquatch!!!

2009-03-03T20:30:00.000-08:00

so. i have my tickets for sasquatch. i am going with some amazing friends, and we are going to have the greatest weekend ever. Bon Iver. Gaslight. Kings of Leon. Chromeo. Animal Collective. Explosions in the Sky. and so on and so forth. man alive it will be amazing. expect a smattering of writings and pictures from the greatest weekend known to man.

trust. also, watch this video. i lurve it.
you should too. mostly cause this song is fantastic.

zxo

Yowza I'm so Behind

2009-02-08T20:55:00.001-08:00

Hey all, sadly I haven't written much in this little thing in quite some time. So I think it's time to change this and add a little bit.

So I have actually been super busy as of late, and have been doing lots with work and school, but also doing alot more shows. rhombus has been keeping me pretty busy, and I've been averaging about two shows a month. Tho this month is a bit different as I have three shows I have been working on. Mainly I've been stoked on the Library Voices show coming up in a couple weeks, as I love this band oh so much. If you haven't checked them out yet you should most definitely do so, as they are a phenomenal ten-piece from Regina and will blow your mind. Here's a vid of one of their upcoming songs that I can't wait to get an actual recorded version of.

As well another show that I'm excited to co-promo with Foundation Concerts is with Beast, this pretty ridiculous duo out of Montreal, but mainly i'm excited as the lead vocalist, Betty Bonifassi was responsible for tunes on Triplets of Belleville, one of my all time favorite movies. So the opportunity to work with this talented duos was something that I just couldn't pass up. Check out this video as well.

I have so much stuff coming up, but one of my favorite albums i've been listening to is definitely the new Matt Pryor album, Confidence Man. But I just thought I'd leave you with one of my all time favorite songs.

Top 5 Thus Far This Year

2008-10-28T22:28:00.000-07:00

well the top ten lists are still another month or two away, but i needed to just quickly put down my top five thus far this year, but i won't put them in actual order. not just yet. but i figured i'd give a bit of love to my favorites so far.

the gaslight anthem-59 sound
i honestly cannot stop listening to this album. ever since i got it a couple months back, this is all i listen to. gaslight continue on with their jersey shore sound, but they definately have added alot more soul to their sound, as well as a bit more polish on the vocals, makes this one of the catchiest albums of the working class, and dancing the night away that i have heard. get into this album.

panic at the disco-pretty.odd.
an album that i didn't think would end up on any of my lists, let alone on my ipod, but i really dig this album. it definately is one of the best albums that was never released in 1970. near wall of sound production, some of the most bizarre lyrics since bob dylans early days, and a variety of songs that never ceases to impress. if you haven't given this disc a chance, i recommend it.

cut copy-in ghost colors
if new order were still pumping out music these days, this is probably what they would have come up with. insanely dancey numbers, as well as very tight lyrics, all around this disc has been a favorite for pretty much most of the year. catchy beats, and glorious harmonies, definately an all time favorite.

sigur ros-med sud i eyrum vid spilum endalaust
always been a fan of this band, but this album definately put that over the top. i found the variety in song tempos to be superb, and the addition of a song sung in english to be just what the doctor ordered. the harmonies will take your breath away, and they definately achieve what they have set out to do. one of their best efforts thus far.

library voices-hunting ghosts
this ep from regina super group (i would say they are, the bands these folk have all come from are superb in all their own rights) has been one of my favorite finds of the year. the ten piece plays a plethora of instruments, and every song has a different and distinct feel, but still all plays out as one amazingly crafted collection of tunes. the newer songs are even better, and i anticipate the full length in the spring. as should you.

anyways, there's some of my top ten for the year. look for albums from the notwist, the dears, sylvie, torche, carpenter, lucinda williams, chad vangaalen, woodhands, cadence weapon, oldfolks home, no age, and definately some more to possibly pop up. who knows what will end up on the top ten...

it's been too long

2008-10-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

so now that i have a bit more access to this, i'm going to hopefully write a bit more about what i've been listening to, or just ramble, or write about whatever i guess.

i mostly just wanted to write down what i've been digging as of late. this year, that's mainly been Gaslight Anthem. i just can't get enough of their newest album, The 59 Sound. it definately has that east coast vibe that you'll find from Springsteen to Against Me to Less Than Jake, and it definately has a lot more soul though than probably any of those other bands. the songs are incredibly catchy, and have a wide range of influences, but i just enjoy it alot. definately something that you should catch out, it kind of even sounds like the killers, but, better. and i'm going to see them in vancouver soon which i really can't wait for. i've seen so many bands over these years, and everyone else that is playing that show i have seen numerous times, so it's always good for me to get to see someone new that really gets me excited about live music. awesome.

i'll write more later on, about other favorites of the year, experiences at virgin music fest, and western canadian music awards, and other random music things. you know, whatever i feel like writing about. laters.

Random Tunes

2008-03-25T09:26:00.000-07:00

So thanks to my Music class I have been enjoying a plethora of new music. and by new music I mean old new music. I've been listening to alot of Gershwin, Mavis Staples, Carter Family, Hank Williams, Josephine Baker, and more. and it's been amazing. i spend a fair amount of time finding new music to listen to, and finding out about the newest happenings in music, and often forget about the music from years past. even over the last little while i've been listening to alot of Pavement, whom i never really listened to when they were, umm, relevent i guess. i knew nothing of these sweet college rock bands from the early 90's, growing up in my podunk town. but thanks to a bit of research, and some heads up from my favorite music journalist, Rob Sheffield, i've found out about mr. Malkmus and his wonderful bandmates.

There's so much amazing music, how do we even have enough time in our lives to even hear a portion of it? and why are people so content to just dwell in radio-land mediocrity? i'll never understand it. but i guess some people are content to hear the music that is spoon fed them, and be done with it. or i guess they just don't get it, is that a good way of putting it? i'm not sure, but i'll keep finding something new, and old to listen to.

On a side note, i went to see Joel and his band of merry men play on friday night, and they were pleasant as always. wonderful tunes, good energy, joel's fantastic humble awkwardness. they played a good set, a bit sloppy as i guess they haven't jammed much lately, but still played decent. But then right after them Arshe played, accompanied by Janet and Jim on a number of songs, and i had forgotten how much I enjoy his music, and his voice. one of Arshe's songs in particular was so beautiful, it sent chills all over. getting wrapped up in his lyrics and imagery, and the combination of his vocals, and the 3 musicians instruments, this one song in particular was so mind-blowingly good, it really reminded me why i go to see live music, especially local talent. and it also reminded me of how talented my friends are and how thankful i am to know these brilliant people.

sometimes i wish i was more talented in musical ways. but i shall be content i suppose in playing the parts i play, with multiple shows coming up, and promoting people that i believe others should hear. that works for now.

Top Ten for 07

2007-12-09T23:42:00.000-08:00

So, here we are, the year has gone by, and I have spend an excessive amount of time and money on music. Thus it is now time to come up with my picks for my Top Ten of the year. Once again, as I note every year, these are my favorites, and not so much which albums i think were the actual best ever of the entire year nothing else is better.

I don't roll that way.
I love music and I'm going to let you know what I loved the most this year.
Hopefully you find something of interest and maybe you will enjoy it too.

here goes:

10) Chelsea Lindley-Scott - Demo 07. Chelsea was one of the greatest things to ever happen to me. so much of my life has changed thanks to her influence and i am forever grateful for her. one of the things i loved was her music and how much she put into making it her own. we have since broken up, but are still good friends and though she lives far away, when i need to hear her voice, i just pop this cassette in. it's a bunch of her own songs, kind of prog acoustic as well as covers of rocky raccoon and wonderwall, a very important song. you probably will never hear this, but maybe some day you will hear her. i guess this isn't really a demo, but i'll call it that for now, just to make me happy. hippy songs for a pretty boy.

9) The Octopus Project - Hello Avalanche. I randomly stumbled across this album, mostly based on the fact that I loved the cover art and had randomly heard my brother talking about them a whiles back. so i grabbed the album. and have fallen in love with the dancey wonderfulness that is this album. especially Truck. definately especially Truck. just another fun filled album to have around, it puts a smile on my face when i need it most.

8) Annuals - Frelen Mas. another band that i stumbled across, pretty much by just picking random things off of daytrotter, but after listening to the songs that i had gotten i was hooked. over and over again the harmonies get stuck in my head and this album keeps getting play. as well, seeing them while i was in vancouver in november was definately a highlight, especially when all the members of manchester orchestra joined the band on stage, creating something i would define as epic, with, a guy playing air guitar on the side of the stage as there was no more room for him. beautiful tunes for beautiful days.

7) Battles - Mirrored. I got this album totally randomly, as you can read further down the page as part of the original creation of this blog, to get random cd's and write about it. that kind of died off once school started rolling, but i'm still a fan of the battles album, and more so of the video for Tonto. super catchy song, and really trippy video. this is probably at the top of alot of peoples lists this year, but it'll do fine at seven for me. definately a gem though.

6) the weakerthans - reunion tour. yes, this album should actually probably be higher up on my list, but here it is placed. still a phenomenal disc that sounds of the same quality of site, but with the same quirkiness and sadness of leaving. i've really enjoyed the album and there are some highlights, but i've still gone back to left and leaving and reconstruction site probably more still since this came out. the continued tales of virtute tho definately stand out, tho, i think i cried a bit the first time i heard that song. music is a powerful thing, and once again emotions have been toyed around with. curse you john k. for making music that moves me. and doesn't fool me with an empty hollow interior buried beneath that sweet candy coated exterior.

5) In Irons - Rome ep. the local edmonton music scene for me over the last little bit has kind of bummed me out. alot of my favorite bands that i loved to see and hear broke up, or moved away, or stopped talking, or kidnapped president's daughters and haven't been heard from since. i've been down, not gonna lie. some artists have stepped it up a notch and i have fallen in love with. but. not as much as In Irons. yes it's friends of mine from other bands that i have loved forever, but, the genius, skill, and emotion that are behind this creation have excited me since the first time i saw them in megan elizabeth's basement. the cd itself is only 2 songs, and really makes me want more and more tunes. but. it will do for now. and it gives me happy thoughts in regards to the local music community that i love so dearly.

4) Miracle Fortress - Five Roses. ever since i saw them this summer and that crazy evening that ended this band, as well as 2 other bands, on the floor at my apartment, i have loved this album more and more. live they put on such a delightful show, and that is carried over onto the disc. majestic tunes, and a brian wilson vibe that you can't deny has kept this disc in constant rotation, and makes me excited for the next time they're through town that's for sure. sweet people + sweet tunes = sweetness of epic beehive drenched proportions.

3) Poisonthewell - Versions. still personally one of my most favorite metal bands around, I had been greatly anticipating this disc, especially once i had heard that they had headed over to europe, deep in the heart of the great metal kingdoms to work on this new outing. and did it ever pay off. still evolving in leaps and bounds over their hardcore startings, and working past the phenomenal you come before you, versions still wows me every time with technical skills, and constant shifting between divine harmonies and unrelenting screams, and a seemingly unending assortment of instruments not normally used by most metal bands. thoroughly enjoyable, can't wait to see it reproduced live. intense.

2) Most Serene Republic - Populations. one of my most anticipated albums of this year, and one i had been waiting for for quite some time, i was overjoyed when it was finally released. and. was it everything i wanted and more? oh yes, yes it was. the songwriting has improved over the enjoyable cinematographer, but especially though, Populations just seems alot more approachable than the last. alot of people were generally either love or hate as far as Most Serene goes, but this album is such finely crafted that really no one can find a fault with it. enjoyable by everyone, even your aunt Ida.

1) No Age - Weirdo Rippers - i hadn't heard of this duo up until a couple months back, when i was working in the cjsr library. i was labelling and shelving cd's, and had put aside a couple that were of interest that i wanted to hear. one of them was this 'No Age' disc. on the back it said Noise-Pop. Noise-Pop, now this i had to hear. i listened to it beginning to end, engrossed in the sweeping sounds of waves, random noisey bits, awesome keys, 60's pop vibe ( a little more brian wilson i think as well, seems to be the way to go), and a disc that i go back to time and time again. i have a hard time describing it to people, and generally just bust out the ipod and let people hear for themselves, but it's definately one of the greatest things i have heard in a long time, and will continue to for even longer i hope. beautiful, beautiful.

so there you have it. my picks for the year. i enjoy them, and maybe you will too.

zxo

it has begun...

2007-11-26T15:48:00.000-08:00

so, the end of the year is upon us. and you know what that means?

albums of the year endless lists upon lists!!!
i'm still not sure what my favorite of all favorites is, but i thought i would just start listing the ones that i liked the most.
eventually i will get a good grasp on what my actual favorite is. so let's see:

bloc party - a weekend in the city
poisonthewell - versions
the octopus project - hello avalanche
joel harding - demo07
matthew good - hospital music
miracle fortress - five roses
means - sending you strength
battles - mirrored
feist - the reminder
annuals - frelen mas
buck 65 - situation
most serene republic - population
no age - weirdo rippers
limbeck - s/t
stars - in the bedroom after the war
the starting line - directions
unearth - in the eyes of fire
the weakerthans - reunion tour
circa survive - on letting go

there's just some of my favorites. i'll trim it down in a bit i think.

it's a new day

2007-11-04T09:25:00.000-08:00

so i know that i haven't touched this thing in months. i pretty much got swamped with alot of things in getting ready for school and now have been consumed by school. and yes, i don't have much time to go and do random cd buyings. or the money for that matter.

on the plus side, i have started volunteering at CJSR in the hopes of having a show of my own one day, or at least being on an established show. we'll see how it goes. but the best part is working in the library and listening to awesome, random cd's i've never heard before.

and i don't have to buy them.

well i will if i really like it. i'll try and track it down.
like for instance. this amazing cd i heard, by this duo called NO AGE.

seriously amazing stuff. on the back they classified themselves as noise-pop and i would definately agree. there was alot of crazy sounds, feedback, weird samples of people talking, oceans, seagulls and the like. but interspersed were some of the catchiest pop rock songs i have heard in awhile.

all in all i listened to the whole album, and, was blown away by it. i definately need to hunt that down. it's on Fat Cat Records from LA if anyone is interested.

also. i am going to see The Locust on tuesday. that will hopefully blow my mind.
also. i leave for vancouver on thursday morning. which i am excited for.

now i should go and do some geog homework.
maybe.

week two. july twenty two. georgia satellites. the essentials.

2007-07-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

.sorry this one is a little late getting out. i didn't make it out to go cd adventuring until friday and then i was busy friday night and all day saturday working and going to the sweet basement show. but i am back now and can finally regail all with my tale of wackiness that occurred during this weeks adventure.

.i had no idea what was going to end up happening this time out. i decided the next week would be when i expand my picks to cover the entire store and not just pop rock but for this trip i decided to still keep it simple. so i got my pick from ashley at work which was Tee Twenty Six Four and with my trusty side kick jamie i headed to the store to see what it was.

.and the funny thing was it ended up being tegan and sara. which i have all the albums. but also there was no fourth cd so i had to pick another one. so since jamie was with me i let him pick the next one and just as we headed off my friend nate who works at hmv showed up and asked ARE YOU DOING THE RANDOM CD THING AGAIN. indeed i was. so off we went to go to the jay section to see what i would get. and it was almost daniel johnston. but alas there weren't any of his cd's in at all. so off we went quickly picking another set of letters and numbers. rushing to see what it would be. it was actually really crazy as we were heavily anticipating what wacky selection it could be. or lame selection. hopefully wacky. but once again when we got to the unicorns there wasn't one. curses. so one last try and first cd this time so whatever it was if there was an artist there i would get that one.

.and lo and behold i ended up with the essential georgia satellites.

.i do not know much about this band. i do know that i fell in love with the cover and back tray pictures of the band. bad ass dudes from the mid to late eighties. jean jackets. big hair. way too much chest hair.

.it was glorious.
.and i went to purchase this amazing cd.

.really it's not too bad actually. i don't mind it too much. it's just some eighties southern rock that isn't too mind blowing but it's fun and it reminds me kind of of growing up and listening to rock back in the day especially such mind blowing tracks as Keep Your Hands To Yourself and Whole Lotta Shakin. it's pretty decent. it's nothing that i think i would ever get really into but i feel as tho it's good background music. something to put in the background while working on some project or writing a letter or even on some road trip playlist. my personal favorite track tho has to be Another Chance. a jangly southern ballad with extremely twangy guitars and a heavy skynnard vibe to it. not too shabby.

.all in all not a bad little listen.
.a nice greatest hits package i would think.

.guiltily pleasurable.

week one. july eleven. battles. mirrored.

2007-07-11T23:18:00.000-07:00

.this is week one of my random cd adventures. i'll assume you read the introduction and you have a basic idea of what is going on. i am pretty excited about this idea and i have no idea what i will end up with each week so it will be interesting to see what gems i will find and what garbage i will spend twenty dollars on. but i love music and whatever happens will happen.

.the funny thing is though that i set out on an adventure to find something cool and interesting and different maybe and as it turns out my choice is something that many people are familiar with. well music lovers of the underground hip variety. i love how i am accidentally hip i suppose. maybe that's how i am in general.

.oh well. regardless.

.i went in to hmv looking for B twenty three number 4 and what i found i was not even remotely prepared for. i thumbed through until i got to number twenty three and that would be something called battles.

.i have never heard of this band at all but i knew that the packaging was definately intriguing and it was brand new so maybe i was on to something.
.so i went and paid for my mystery cd and a friend of mine was working and he seemed excited that i was buying the disc. I KNOW I SHOULD KNOW WHO THIS IS he said. i told him what i was doing and it was random I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IT IS BUT IT LOOKS PRETTY SWEET said i. i paid my twenty dollars and was on my way.

.i headed back to the office and carefully opened the packaging and marveled in it's beautiful cardboard packaging and unfolded the mini poster of the bands instruments and jam space i assumed. and i popped the cd in.

.i still am not sure how i feel about the disc really. it caught me completely off guard. i had no idea what to expect really at all and even listening to it again i am still wrapping my mind around it. it's a pretty avant garde piece of musical goodness that is for sure. the garbled vocoder tinged melodies that dart back and forth throughout the songs mixed with the glorious keyboards that base most of the tracks. and the guitarists riffs seer and dance setting a mood of excitement and anticipation throughout the disc. it's definately an interesting rock album with a cyborg electric heart.

.i like it. it's really interesting and definately something alot more different than what i normally would pick up.
.i'm no musical expert that is for certain. i just like good music and like to experience things alot different than say listening to the same five songs on the radio. this battles disc has already made quite the impression on me and i'm sure after some more listening it will grow on me more.

.some songs are sweet.
.some are creepy.
.some are definately catchy.

.i'll definately be listening to this for some time to come i believe.

.enjoyable.

introduction

2007-07-11T23:05:00.000-07:00

.this all began as a kind of joke at work. i was bored, and was thinking about getting a new cd but wasn't really sure what i should get. i am tired of just buying the same old things that i like so i decided to do something about it and buy something random.

.what a fantastic idea.

.so i start to talk to my co worker and we formulate a plan.

.i ask him to pick a letter from in the alphabet and that will be the name section to start in at the music store.

.then i ask him to pick a number between one and fifty that i think will cover alot of what he chose.

.and lastly choose between one and five for which cd is in the artists selection that i should get.

.so i head down to hmv with the numbers and letter i got. section B. the 23rd artist. and the fourth cd. and i honestly haven't been this excited in a long time. what could it be. what would i end up with. no matter what it was minus if it is something i already have i was going to buy it. i really had no idea what i was going to get. so once i got into hmv i headed to the rock section to B and started counting. the original choice .was number eleven. that would have been randy bachman. if it was twenty four it would have been bahaus. instead i got something i was not expecting at all.

.you can read about it in the next blog.

.but that is just the beginning of how this is going to work. i am going to do this once a week. and at least try other stores other than just hmv but it's convenient for me and does have a pretty vast selection. i am excited on this. i have no idea what i will end up with.

.but it's going to be an adventure nonetheless.