Squamish Valley Music Festival

I figured I would share my crazy weekend that was volunteering at the Squamish Music Fest as I am home now and it was a pretty awesome experience and nice to be back in the world of event production. I'm still pretty sore and tired from it but all in all it was a great time and I look forward to doing it again that's for sure.

Day 1

I went up bright and early with another volunteer, Dani, who as it turns out is South African. Small world! We had a great drive up and chatted lots about careers and the world and hung out over the weekend as well, great gal. We got up there super early which was good as I needed to set up my tent before my shift started, so after meeting with a bunch of the other volunteers and the volunteer coordinator Michael (who is the best coordinator every by the way, did a great job all weekend) I went and set up my gear. The camp site was located in a number of huge soccer and baseball fields by the rec center in Squamish and the view there was gorgeous.

For my shift I was assigned to Production Assistant, and essentially it was to just help with the general setup of the site in whatever capacity was needed. Myself and some other great volunteers went back over to the site where we met with the campsite supervisor Sarah (also fantastic) and she told us they had decided last minute to start up a "general store" in the campsite to sell things that people had forgot, ice, etc. I volunteered to help get it rolling by doing inventory and itemizing everything and figuring out what they needed more of and so forth. So me and some other volunteers headed over and did that, got the little store set up and spent the day there, but after all that, well all anyone wanted was ice, and they bought a lot of it.

So my shift went by pretty fast and so when I was done I met up with Dani and we went to the Garibaldi stage to watch Dustin Bentall and Matt Mays. Dustin Bentall I had seen a while ago back in Edmonton but it had been a while. His set definitely impressed as they rocked out, and their fiddle player was phenomenal. The sound was fantastic and everyone was having a great time. Then Matt Mays closed the first night and while the beginning of his set was a little on the slow side, after the halfway point they just blew the roof off the place (which is impossible as it was outside, but still they were great). A fantastic closing set and I headed off to the campground to meet up with my friends Saifa and Melissa and there friends that came with them. They were the unfortunate souls though that were like the many that were stuck in a 3 plus hour lineup to get into the campground. We stayed up a bit chatting and eating asparagus and eventually I headed to bed, trying to ignore the insane partying that was happening, and apparently continued to happen mostly through the night.

Day 2

I was up at a pretty decent time on friday and felt moderately rested, at least enough for my first shift as backstage assistant. I wasn't sure where I would be posted and really didn't care, I was just excited to be working the festival and hopefully working with some sweet people. I was first briefly posted over at the Garibaldi stage and I just helped with loading in Jurassic 5's gear and met some of the production managers working over there. After I was done I went over to the Meadow stage to see what was needed of me. I got there and headed to the back of the stage and went to introduce myself to the stage manager, and it happened to be none other then Ryan Drabble! What luck! I haven't seen him in a couple of years at least but knew that he had moved out here but just haven't had a chance to catch up. Well we would have plenty of time to catch up as we got to work together all weekend.

Working as the backstage assistant I was mostly helping with meeting and helping out the artists, going and fetching anything that was needed, helping with setting up the stage and helping haul gear on and off the stage. Pretty much the usual stuff which was nice to help with as it's been a little while. The production team I got to work with was also pretty amazing, Rob, Lindsey and Kaley (unsure of the spelling, my bad) were all phenomenal to work with and I tried to help them keep things as smooth as possible, even with a few hiccups that should be expected at a big festival. So working was pretty fun and the bands I got to work with and see at the stage were phenomenal, especially The Chantrelles and Jordan Klassen, both were so good. Once I was done my first shift I headed back to the campsite to change and then watch some music!

When I got back to the grounds I got to catch a bit of Family of the Year, whom since the only song I've heard of there's was some slow jam on the radio I wasn't super interested but thought I would see anyways. They were actually really good and rocked out pretty hard which was sweet, a little folk rock-y and pretty sweet. From then on it was just a constant back and forth between the main stage and Garibaldi going to see Dan Mangan, who was great as always, to seeing Jurassic 5 for the first time who were so good. They brought the legit old-school hip-hop and with DJ Nu-Mark and Cut Chemist bringing the beats they were on fire. The crowd loved it and they were so good to see, but we had to cut it short as we wanted to watch all of Macklemore's set. We headed back over and got a spot pretty close to the front of the stage just before the set started and it was so good. Ryan Lewis is not only a great producer, but one heckuva hype man. He was good, and Macklemore and his associates were on fire. There was maybe a little bit too much banter but it was generally entertaining and whenever the music started everyone was dancing, clapping, singing along and having some of the most fun I had seen people having all weekend. Highlight set of the weekend hands down. I got separated from my friends tho so wandered back to see Young the Giant alone, which was sad as it made me miss my wife a ton as we love them quite a bit. They were as good as they've ever been and the new songs sounded tight; looking forward to their new album whenever it comes out. I wandered back to see a bit of Vampire Weekend but was pretty tired so I wandered back to the campground, bought a waffle, and sat in a baseball diamond eating it and listening to Vampire Weekend (don't judge me, it was fantastic). I stayed up a bit later with Saifa, Melissa and everyone but headed to bed as I was beat.



Day 3

I had decided that I wanted to go back the Saturday night as I missed my family, so I woke up at 7 and backed up all of my gear. I then had a nice chat with some of the vendors that were next to me and their daughter. We talked about music, life, art, Vicar of Dibley (a great BBC show that everyone should watch) and generally had a nice relaxing morning. I headed over with all of my gear to report in for my last shift. They were starting late over at the Meadow stage so I got sent over to Garibaldi to help out. I went with Alex, another volunteer who was enjoying his time working backstage, and we reported to Andrea (of the Belle Game, you should listen to them if you get a chance) who was one of the Production Managers over there and then just did the basic early stuff. Cleaning out the green room/trailers, cleaning up the area, loading in Fitz and the Tantrums gear, the usual stuff. All in all it was a ton of work again but we got the place in tip-top shape and ready for Childish Gambino, the Matinee, Pretty Lights, all the artists over there.

After I was done there I headed over to the Meadow stage as they had a late start as we set up most everything the day before so it was mostly just waiting for bands to load in. I met up with Ryan and everyone and then got to work helping load in the other bands that had yet to show up and just tidying everything up. Compared to the previous day Saturday was a walk in the park. I felt a little bad as I felt like I wasn't doing much as compared to the day before, but Ryan gladly reminded me that he was glad I was there as he could focus on the stuff he had to do as stage manager and knew he didn't have to worry about anything going on as he could count on me, which was nice to here. That sentiment was repeated to me a couple of times so that made me feel pretty good. The friendly folks from the Ballantynes hung out quite a bit whom we had fun chatting with, as well as the guys from Bear Mountain, all great people.

I didn't get to see too many acts though on the last day though, mostly just the bands on the stage I was working at, and a bit of Yukon Blonde and the Heavy, who were both really solid. As I was leaving I did stop by the Garibaldi stage for a bit and watch Diamond Rings from backstage which was sweet, his set was super tight and the crowd was having a great time. Once I was done my shift I grabbed my things and then headed out to meet my wife. I missed Gogol Bordello, Band of Horses and Queens of the Stone Age but it doesn't matter too much, I was just excited to see my wife and son again. All in all though it was a fantastic weekend, full of great friends old and new, phenomenal music, a lot of hard work but just a lot of good times. It was also great to see how the festival worked from behind the scenes and the amount of work that went into it, and I am definitely excited to do it all over again next year.

Note: pictures to follow later. I just haven't had a chance to load some up but I'll post some later on.

Bringing It Back

It's been far too long I think since I wrote about music. I've mostly been writing about videogames in my other blog but I miss finding new music and discovering something new and something to really dig my teeth into. I am going to try making this a weekly thing and do this more regularly, so subscribe, stay tuned and hopefully we can go on musical adventures all over again.

For now, I want to introduce you to Greg Drummond. He's a Vancouver (by way of Port Moody) musician that's a little folk, a little rock and even a touch of old country in some of his tunes. I saw him play on Canada day and was aware of who he was thanks to the Peak Performance Project, and me and my wife both enjoyed his set. I should also note that his set was the first performance that my 9 month old son saw, so that's pretty awesome. Anyways here's a song, definitely give him a look. Cheers!

Media Democracy Days Fundraiser

So I just wanted to write a little something as it's looking like I will be helping out with a show coming up next month at the Railway Club here in Van, a fundraiser for a pretty sweet event Media Democracy Days. I wanted to get involved a little bit with some things this school year since I've started to wrap up my degree in Communications and this opportunity popped up, and I thought "hey, I could help out with a show, I can do those things." I'm pretty excited about it too as I'm digging some of the tunes thus far. The show is Thursday Oct 11 at the Railway Club and Brice Tabish and Che Aimee are playing, but especially this gal from Victoria is playing, Ciseaux. Check her out, I'm already a fan of her vocals, cello and sweet dancey numbers. It should be a fun evening and fun to work a show again. Here's a link to her bandcamp: http://ciseaux.bandcamp.com/ and also a link to the Media Democracy Days website if you want more info on the events and workshops: http://mediademocracyday.org/ .

Quick Pick of the Day: Adrian Underhill

I have been listening to Adrian Underhill's little EP this morning quite a bit, and have been enjoying it immensely. A relatively new face in the Canadian indie scene, this fine fellow out of Montreal has definitely got a bright future ahead of him. While there are only 3 songs up to listen to they all show a constant but varied range, with some truly delicate vocals but showing an influence from other Canadian heroes Chad VanGaalen and Neil Young in particular. I find his voice to be intriguing in the same capacity that VanGaalen's is, though Underhill's lyrics are a tad more grounded, but ones that tell the kinds of stories I like to hear in folk type songs. Another reason why I've been digging this so much is the slight world influences that comes out especially in the first track Back Asleep. He's still young but I'm definitely looking forward to hearing more from this fine fellow and hopefully seeing him out West soon.

 

http://adrianunderhill.bandcamp.com/album/back-asleep-did-i-wake-up

 

 

 

Quick Pick of the Day: Jim Guthrie's Gaming Goodness

There's quite a few videogame soundtracks that I've enjoyed over the years, but most recently there is one that sticks out far more than any others. Jim guthrie's Swords & Sworcery soundtrack is chiptune brilliance even if it's not exactly chiptune. His use of keys, synths and drumloops is phenomenal and the ambience and tone that his music sets for the game transfers to the real world. I've been listening to these songs quite a bit in the office and they continue to transport me to a land that breathes 8-bit pixels. In particular, pay close attention to the track "the maelstrom" as Guthrie's minimalistic brilliance truly shines forth and that song in particular has moved me like nothing in quite a long time. Maybe since Aeris' Theme from Final Fantasy VII.

Truly the work of a modern day genius (and Canadian to boot). Check Guthrie out today.

http://jimguthrie.bandcamp.com/album/sword-sworcery-lp-the-ballad-of-the-space-babies

Music, Memories and 9/11

For me music has always played a huge role in my life. I've consumed quite a lot more music than most people I know (though there are definitely people that breathe music more than I for sure), and I have often had soundtracks to my life. There's been certain phases and parts of my life where I listened to one type of music more than others, and then things change and it's on to something else. I've had some tough times as well over the years and my favorite songs have been there for me no matter what.

I've just been thinking the last couple days leading up to today, September 11th, about what I was listening to then and why. You see, on 9/11 now 11 years ago, my grandfather had just passed away and I was taking a week or so off work to just kind of relax as it was a pretty big blow to me. I was woken up by my mom who was going crazy saying that someone had crashed a plane into the World Trade Center. I then spent a good chunk of the morning and day glued to the news watching the craziness that had been happening. Don't get me wrong, I know that there is plenty of injustice around the world and many people die due to the actions of insane people with outrageous agendas, but for that to happen here in North America, it was pretty shocking.

I spent a lot of time that day thinking about what was happening, thinking about all those people and what was going on. It was already a pretty rough time and this continued to blow my mind. Then, I did what I have done so often and wanted to retreat into a structured world, full of soundscapes and the audio escape I generally preferred to what was going on around me. I made a trip to the nearest place that sold music and just kind of headed to the new release section. My purchases for the day were P.O.D.'s Satellite and Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals Life From Mars, and in general I'll probably never forget what I picked up that day.

While I definitely have moved away from the rap-metal stylings of P.O.D. (and heaven only knows why I picked up that album, though I was listening to a lot of Linkin Park still at that time so there's a clue I guess) Ben Harper has always been the kind of musician I like to grab when I'm looking for some nice chill music. That live album has been one of my favorites and I remember walking back from the store, and soaking in some new tunes and enjoying a crisp day much like today.

Music has often been a little more on the escapism side for me more so than movies or books, I love getting lost in good music. I also love good music on a day when it is needed as much as some human comfort, a hug or a "how are you doing?" For all those remembering 9/11 here's a great cover by Ben Harper for those who need something beautiful in their day, enjoy.

Taylor Swift or Old Crow Medicine Show?

I grew up listening to quite a bit of folk music, and once I got a bit older I found out about country music legends like Johny Cash and Hank Williams that I instantly latched onto. I like down home kind of music, songs about people and landscapes, about the good things in life and the bad, but especially I enjoy banjos and acoustic guitars and the like. I really love old country music, but I definitely have a bad taste in my mouth that has been left by so called country music stars who are generally nothing more than generic pop singers who happen to have a slight twang or an extra acoustic guitar on an album.

I was recently reminded of Old Crow Medicine Show and I forgot how much I love them and their sound. This group from down south sounds like they just crawled out of some moonshine powered time machine from the 1930's and grew up inspired by the hillbilly legends that most people barely remember to this day. Country, folk, bluegrass and more, there's always something inspired that comes from listening to this group, case in point their version of Wagon Wheel which is one of my all time favorites.



This being said, I have already been introduced to the new Taylor Swift song and I can safely say I am not a fan of it, and wonder how Swift especially can even remotely be considered country music. First impressions of the song We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together was actually that it was a new Avril Lavigne song, and then I was informed that it was in fact Swifts new song. I understand I'm not the target market, but it is hands down one of the most generic pop songs I've heard in a long time and doesn't remotely qualify in my opinion as a country song. Yet, she will still have a cross over appeal and people will love her which is fine, but what bugs me is that artists like Old Crow will still be overlooked and are making infinitely greater country music than Swift ever has.

I'll definitely continue passing on Taylor Swift, but I can't wait to track down some more reinvented country classics that is for certain.

2012's Picks So Far

I definitely need to go back and actually do a final wrap up for 2011 apparently, but until then I need to keep track of what I've been digging this year so far. There's a pretty solid mix of tunes, from Canada in general and then from all over the place and there have been more than a few that are all that I have been listening to for the bulk of the year. There's some albums I need to dig into with teeth and a fierce grip but for the most part I have a good list of what I think are some standout albums this year. Here's a few of them.

Purity Ring - Shrines



I may be a bit partial to this album as it's two friends of mine from back in Edmonton, but regardless I really love this disc. A lot. It's been the perfect soundtrack to my travels around the city either on bright sunny days, or rainy days, or late at night, or pretty much whenever really. Corrin's tight and crisp beats and Megans gorgeous vocals are pretty much all you need. It's simple but layered, but becomes more dense after every listen.

John K Samson - Provincial



The weakerthans have been my most favorite Canadian band, and probably just most favorite band in general, and I had been waiting for Samson's new album for quite some time. While it doesn't stray too much from what he has done with the band, it does allow for less focus on the instrumentals and more focus on his song writing and soft vocals which are a highlight of any weakerthans album for me. Such a standout disc though and one that's constantly on repeat.

Japandroids - Celebration Rock



When I first heard the above track on the playlist at my work, I was blown away. A new Japandroids? Being played in the store? Insane. After the first time thought I was sold, and the rest of the album is just as good. A tight, concise rock album that blisters all the way through, this has been my go to when I want something super upbeat. Quality Canadian rock, the way it should be.

Torche - Harmonicraft



While I was a bit let down by the new Baroness album, I was pleasantly surprised with how tight the album is and how much it expands upon Meanderthal. I've come a long way from what I used to enjoy in regards to metal and hard rock, but this is right up my alley. Thick dense low end on the drums and bass and grinding guitars, as well as the type of rough but still coherent vocals, this is an album I can definitely get behind and have.

Of Monsters & Men - My Head Is An Animal



This band has pretty much blown up out of nowhere this year and for good reason. I had only heard a few songs from this band last year and forgot about them, but when this album came out I put it in and fell in love. From beginning to end these fine Icelandic folk have put together a magical indie smattering of some of the finest tunes I've heard in a long time. Super catchy, poppy indie rock with dual vocals and intelligent lyrics when you get past the sugary sweetness of the songs. This band deserves all the great things coming their way that's for sure.

Emo Like It's 1999

Lately I've been listening to a lot of Transit, and I like them. I really, really like them. They remind me of the sweet 90's emo bands like Braid and Mineral, even a bit of Texas is the Reason with their driving drums and punchy bass lines, and singer Joe Boynton sounds like he definitely has most of those bands full discographies down pat. Regardless of how much they sound like the great emo bands of old, they have great new things to offer a punk scene that is overrun in awful screamo bands and bands that just have no heart. If you like any of the above mentioned bands, or even the Early November check out this track Long Lost Friends, it's top notch.

It's Been Far, Far, Far Too Long

So I feel like I need to restart posting in this little blog of mine. It's my longest running one, it's the one that I think I should write in more as I'm still very much in love with music and it's very much a large part of my life. I also need to be exploring music a lot more than I have been, I've been pretty complacent with what I've been listening to. It's not that I listen to garbage, there's still tons of great music that I have encountered, but it's not at the same level as I used to in regards to searching out new music.

This changes now.

I will do my best to post about what I'm listening to and what I'm digging and if you have any recommendations then feel free to comment and share, as I am always up for new tunes. I'll leave you with something not too shocking, but I do in fact love the new Gaslight Anthem. These guys are still the best at what they do and they've been finely crafting their brand of Springsteen-esque soulful rock for a few albums now, and this new disc has quickly grown on me. Check out the best song in my opinion on the new album.



I'll have even more things to write soon so have no fear, and also please feel free to comment on what you've been digging lately.

Favorites Mid Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.