birds too tired to fly

The End of Birds.

2011-03-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, well it's been 2 months since my last post. I think that's a sign. I started this blog almost 3 years ago, really just for myself. I wanted a place to talk about music, film and Toronto. I also used it as a way to talk to people I looked up to. People like Barzin, Wilderness of Manitoba, Nick Zubeck... people who've become friends.

So here's what I'm doing. I won't be posting here no more. I'll leave the site up at this address for a while, and when my "Lease" runs out, I'll post the Blogger address. From now on, I'll be focusing my attentions to my personal website (which this sorta was anyways), and writing for the odd blog here and there (hopefully I'll have some content up at Roots Music Canada soon).

Thanks for reading! If you want to continue following me, I'll be posting here:

www.shawnclarkemusic.com

Love,

Shawn William Clarke

Track of the Week: What You Want When you Want by Bellevue

2011-01-06T09:16:00.000-08:00

Hey hey! So, tonight there is a great show happening at the Press Club here in Toronto. It features The Tight Ship, Bellevue, and well... me. (Learn more about the show here)

But, lets talk about Bellevue for a sec. They just released a wonderful poppy album called "What You Want".

Here is the 2nd track on that album "What You Want When You Want"

Top 9 of a so so year.

2010-12-20T07:13:00.000-08:00

Hey there, so here's the thing. I sat down the other day to write down a top 10 albums of the year list (like everyone is doing). When I was finished, I had 9 albums. That says two things about me; I didn't listen to a lot of music this year, and maybe, this year wasn't a good year for music. I've checked out other people's lists to see if I missed anything... but alas, I either didn't hear it (Janelle Monae, Broken Bells), or I didn't particularly like it (Diamond Rings, Beach House, Robyn).

The second point works for a few of my favorite albums of the year as well. Let me explain. The Arcade Fire released a fantastic record this year, one of my favorites, but it's the worst Arcade Fire album. That statement shouldn't be quoted out of context, my current rating of Arcade Fire albums goes as follows: "Funeral" 5/5, "Neon Bible" 5/5, "The Suburbs" 4/5.

The other big album this year was from Kanye West. Yes, it's a really good album. The production is inspired, "Power" is the song of the year... but... If Kanye had spent just a little more time developing his lyrics, I'd be a happier man. There are wonderful lines like;

"Lost in translation with a whole fuckin’ nation
They say I was the abomination of Obama’s nation
Well, that’s a pretty bad way to start the conversation"

only a few lines away from a clunker like:

Fuck SNL and the whole cast
Tell ‘em Yeezy said they can kiss my whole ass
More specifically, they can kiss my asshole
I’m an asshole? You niggas got jokes"

I don't expect gold from hip-hop lyrics. But I do expect it from albums that are being pegged as the best of the year, and albums that will probably define a generation. But that's just me.

So for me, nothing was Great. There wasn't anything that really jumped out at me. Maybe I'm just in a weird place this year. Last years list seemed much more exciting (you can read it here), but is Mos Def's "The Estatic" really better than "My Dark Twisted Fantasy"?

Here's my 9:

9. The Many and the Wise- Birdsacrosswater

The problem with this album is that it's not easy to get a hold of. Yes, you can find it on Bandcamp, but there is little to no promo on this album. I'm a huge fan of his work, maybe you'll get something out of it.

8. Working for the Music Man- Daniel Romano

I saw Daniel for the first time at Pop Montreal, and i was floored. A wonderful songwriter.

7. Brothers- The Black Keys

Dan Auerbach's "Keep it Hid" was one of my favorites last year. This isn't quite as good as that album, but it's the pure psych/Blues/Rock that we come to expect from the Black Keys.

6. When You Left the Fire- The Wilderness of Manitoba

The Wilderness of Manitoba has made a wonderful progression from their first EP to this album. The production value has improved quite a bit, and they've come into their own sound (Fleet Foxes comparisons were far more rampant for the earlier album). Great harmonies, and musicianship.

5. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy- Kanye West

Well here it is. For all my complaints, this is a good record. "Power" knocks me over every time.

4. Forgiveness Rock Record- Broken Social Scene

When I first heard this record, I didn't really like it, and put it away for a few months. On further inspection, I've grown to love it. The stripped down lineup is a wonderful contrast to the mess that was 2005's "Broken Social Scene".

3. And Now We Sing- Olenka and the Autumn Lovers

Full disclosure. I'm on a couple of tracks. You can hear my honking saxophone off in the distance. Either way, Olenka has reached a new height with "And Now We Sing", doing away with the Open-door policy of her last efforts, she's put together a solid band who perfectly accentuates her subtle songwriting. Olenka is still one of the best songwriters working anywhere, and, that we can call her our own, is something to be proud of.

2. The Suburbs- Arcade Fire

My only complaint with that album is that it's too long. I've been in a lot of arguements about this, but I stand my ground! There is too much filler. Songs like "Modern Man" and "Wasted hours" would make great b-sides, but do little to propel the album. "Sprawl" is a great example of how to do a 2 parter... unfortunately "Half Life" is not. The thing is, the songs that are good are really good. "The Suburbs", "Ready to Start", and the "Sprawl" songs are some of the best of the they've written.

1. Wild Hunt- Tallest Man on Earth

Solo singer/guitarist albums can be pretty lame. "The Wild Hunt", and 2008's "Shallow Grave" are not. Why? For me it comes down to interesting guitar playing, interesting voice, strong Melodies, and engaging imagery. The Tallest Man on Earth has all of those things and more. All the way from Sweden.

Honorable Mention: This is Happening- LCD Soundsystem, Provincial Parks and Breaking Hearts- Handsome Dan and his Gallimaufry, In The Dark Tower EP- William Delray, Swim-Caribou, Contra- Vampire Weekend.

So, what do you think? Was it a good year for music? Anybody have the same problem as me? What does your list look like?

New Music Website!

2010-12-13T13:42:00.000-08:00

Hey there! I don't like to focus too much on my music here, so I'll make this short. I finally have a website! You'll notice it's a blogger layout, but I think it looks pretty dapper. Anyways, if you can spare a couple minutes, check it out at:

Please, let me know how I can improve it! Talk soon.

Track of the Week: She Was the World to Me by Daniel Romano

2010-12-10T14:13:00.000-08:00

At Pop Montreal this year, i got to see some amazing acts, but one of the nicest surprises was Daniel Romano. He performed a simple set, with lovely background vocals by Misha Bower. There was a wonderful Parsons/Harris vibe, and this track particularly struck a chord. Heartbreaking.

Track of the Week: Don't Get Into It by Whipping Wind

2010-11-29T08:45:00.000-08:00

The wonderful folks at OH! Records sent me a copy of the new OH Compilation 2. I'll try to get a full write up soon (you know how slow I've been moving lately), but I just wanted to share a track with you. As with their first compilation the best song here is from the Whipping Wind.

Rumour Has it Whipping Wind will finally get a full album release in the next couple months, I'm pretty excited about this. The songwriting is really top notch, and the production is always interesting.

You can actually download the first OH! Comp (featuring Tidal Wave by Whipping Wind) here at their site for a limited time!

Tour Journal: OAL Toronto

2010-10-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Oh Toronto. What a great welcome! We arrived in my home city around 4 o'clock, and I immediately went to my girlfriends place. This is the longest we've been apart, and I was beginning to miss the gal. I had a few hours to rest, hang out, eat a home cooked meal, and then we headed to the Garrison.

It was great to see so many of our favorite people out! We were humbled. Patrick met up with us again! He's on his way from Halifax back home to Saskatchewan. We made sure to get him up on banjo for a couple of songs.

Opening the show was Weather Station. I've had the pleasure of seeing this band once in the past, and it was a treat to see them again. Most of the show was performed as a duo, guitar and banjo, but they brought in a rhythm section for the last song. A great start to the night.

Our current tour mates, Kite Hill were up next. Every time I see them, they get a little better. Singer/Frontman Ryan Carley is getting more confident in his performance, and the audience were really drawn to him. the already large band was joined by a flute player this time. Folks in Hamilton, Windsor and London are going to be very impressed over the next couple weeks.

And that leaves us. I think we played one of our best shows. Everyone was on the top of their game. My only complaint is that we didn't get to play our best track, Louise of Littleville. That song is usually relegated to the encore list. I'm not entirely sure why, but I've never been a big fan of encores.

Either way, the show was a success, and I'm home. I can't help but feel a little directionless. I'll be out to a few of the Ontario dates (Hamilton and London for sure), but the touring part is kinda over. You get pretty close to people when you tour with them. I probably just need a couple days of rest. I have to find some paying work, and I guess get back to focusing on my own music.

Folks in Ontario, there are still a few great shows coming up, first being tues night in Hamilton. I'll try to get a write up for that, come say hi if you see me there!

Tour Journal: OAL Ottawa/Kingston

2010-10-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, lets talk about Ottawa for a second. After Quebec, I fell like we'd run out of steam a bit. We pulled into Ontario and it immediately began raining. When we found Raw Sugar, I was a little disappointed to see that it was a cafe. This has nothing to do with the venue itself. Truth be told, it's a fantastic cafe, great ambiance, they serve good beers, and I hear they have wonderful coffee. My problem is that with a small show, we alter the setlist for a quieter set. The list we settled on, had me playing on only 2 songs. So, I was in a bit of a mood. The one good thing about the gig for me, was seeing our opening act for the first time, Kite Hill. They'll be with the Autumn Lovers on a couple of dates, and they are worth checking out. More on them later.

After my grumpy state, I was glad to get the next day off. Blair, Sara, Dan and I stayed at Blair's friend Katie's place. Lots of room, and we all felt great the next morning. After a walk through the city I found THE BEST RECORD STORE EVER! It's a place called Legends. Their selection is pretty vast, and the price are reasonable. A must see the next time you're in Ottawa.

That night, after a quick hang out with some old friends, I met up with the the 3 other Lovers and we headed off to Katies family cottage near Kingston.

That may have been the best day of the tour. We made a good breakfast (after a nice homemade dinner the night before), and enjoyed the sunny weather. I finally got to go Kayaking! So good.

I think we all felt more relaxed, and better prepared for our show in Kingston. It was a bigger stage, great sound, and packed with a rowdy bunch of Kinston-ites. It may have been one of our best shows this tour. Our first opener was local band Monuments and Statues. There are a lot of great ideas going on in this banjo/cello let indie band. I'm going to watch their progress, I fell like they can be a really great band in a couple of years.

Kite Hill was up next. And wow. What a performance. Leader Ryan Carley brought a larger band this time, upright bass, cello, violin and clarinet helped support his beautiful melodies. I can't wait to see them again.

So, now I'm back home in Toronto. Tonight, we're playing at the Garrison, and I'm really excited. It should be a great show. See you there!

Tour Journal: OAL: Sackville/ St. Andrews/ Quebec City

2010-10-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm a couple days behind. But here's the update; Thanksgiving was AMAZING. A really beautiful thing. 21 guests piled into a small living room in Sackville. More food than we knew what to do with. Good friends, new and old. I wouldn't want it any other way.... OH, and the best part, Blair fell in a ditch. True story.

The following day, we said good bye to Kevin, and headed west. St. Andrews is a sleepy town this time of year, the Summer tourist have long gone, but it's a great time to see it. The leaves are fully changed and starting to fall. Emma, a friend of the band, set us up in her step-fathers place, Salty Towers. What a place! Antiques everywhere, parts of the building date back to the late 1800's. The building is maze-like due to the renovations over the last century. So much history.

We played at the Red Herring, and there wasn't much of an audience, but we had great sound! We took advantage of our cheap drinks and had a blast. The few who attended where also treated with small sets by Handsome Dan, Myself, and Blair Whatmore. It was great to see Blair play his originals for the first time this tour, and Dan, as always was enthralling.

Early to rise the next morning. I took one final tour around the city, and we embarked on our longest journey to Quebec City.

We pulled in after about 10 hours. We were glad to be out of the van. Our venue was Fou Bar, a wonderful dark place run by the social and energetic Lily Jodoin. She really is a character,the type you can only find in Quebec!

Our opener was a friend from Halifax, Gianna Lauren. She's also backing a new record, and will be in Ontario later this week, Ottawa and Toronto, take note.

And so, you find me here; a nice apartment in Quebec City, stealing someones Internet, and ready for breakfast., There should be more excitement to come (including how we're going to get this rental van back to Montreal!) Keep checking in.

Tour Journal: OAL Fredricton/ Charlottetown

2010-10-11T12:31:00.000-07:00

Hey there! It's been a couple days, let let me tell you what's been going on;

Fredericton. What a great city! The show at The Capital was wonderful, and we got to play the first of 2 shows with our new favorite band North Lakes. The North Lakes have this great 80's new wave/ surf vibe. They hail from Charlottetown, and anyone in the maritimes should check them out if they get the chance.

There was something going on in Fredericton called a Decentralized Dance Party. Apparently it's happening all over the place. Here's what it entails:

The DDP is a portable, battery-powered Party System.
It consists of hundreds of Party People, carrying boomboxes, and a DJ who wears a backpack, containing a powerful FM transmitter.
All the boomboxes are tuned into the DJ’s master FM broadcast, resulting in a mobile, synchronized sound system. This Portable Dance Party roams the night, generating complete awesomeness, street by street and block by block, onto buses and subways, into public fountains and beyond! Inevitably interfacing with the public, together we create an infectious epidemic of fun! A Roaming Party Adventure that lasts all night long!

It was something to see, folks dancing it up in various locations of the city. Pretty cool.

By the time we got to Charlottetown, I was feeling pretty exhausted. My nights of 3-5am bed times are behind me, and the last 2 nights where in that time frame. I was also sleeping on the floor in Fredericton, so I got very little rest. By performance time, I just wasn't in the mood. This was probably my weakest show, which is too bad, because it will be the last with are great late edition, Kevin on bass guitar. They can't all be gems.

Luckily, a good friend of the band Sam Stewart, invited us back to his large house for the night. I slept in a bed, and it was glorious.

So that's it for the update. We're back in Sackville, and we're setting up a huge Thanksgiving meal. There may be up to 30 people at this dinner! It's really exciting, some familiar faces from the road may be showing up. Our good friend Patrick from Halifax is already here, and slaving over the potatoes. This should be an epic night!

Next show is in St. Andrews, tomorrow night. I'll be updating you soon!

Tour Journal: OAL Moncton/ Sackville

2010-10-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

I may be the worst person to write a tour journal. I have a horrible memory. I was asked today, where we'd be on the tour so far. Um... Montreal.... Halifax... um... Edmundston...

Yesterday we left Saint John (after a perfect greasy spoon breakfast), and headed to Moncton. Moncton wasn't on the original tour schedule. But a booker who Olenka knows, really wanted us there. So we agreed to do an early evening show. We pulled up to a little gallery, and set up for a quiet set (no drums, bass, electric guitar, horns). I was asked to do a small 4 song opener.

Halfway through my set the child parade came in. within the length of one song, the audience became full of young children. While pondering the ridiculousness of it all, a small cat came bounding into the room. I couldn't help but feel like my set was upstaged by the caravan of adorable that kept coming though the front door.

Handsome Dan played next. That's Autumn Lover drummer Dan Mancini (a truly handsome chap). He played a couple new songs, both great, and closed with one from his new EP.

The Autumn Lovers set went off without a hitch. The audience was appreciative, and we all were interviewed after wards for... something... I didn't really catch it.

Sackville was up next. Sound check was unfortunately pretty atrocious. The monitors were feeding back, the bass was overpowering everything, and any adjustments made, did little to help. That's always a bit frustrating, but to be honest, Simon and myself rarely have good sound. We rarely have mics, NEVER have monitors. Bad sound is sort of the norm.

The rest of the band seemed a little bummed, but about two songs into the set we hit our stride. The audience was electric. Dancing, clapping along, cheering, and calling out the name of their favorite rhythm section member (I think Kevin won out in the end, but he lives here).

The night ended back at Kevin's place. Our openers, Cory Eisener and the Sheep Dogs, and a bunch of friends partied until 4:30 or so.

I'm a bit of a wreck this morning. Seriously sleep deprived, but luckily we have a few hours of rest here in Sackville before our next show in Fredericton!

Tour Journal: OAL Saint John NB

2010-10-08T15:27:00.000-07:00

After finally getting out of Halifax, we embarked on a journey to Saint John. From the pitiful google map Olenka had printed off, you'd think that Saint John didn't want anyone in or out. The map made little to no sense. And after a series of unsuccessful turns, Olenka and I were at each other throats. That was immediately all forgotten when we found our destination; The Pirates Place.

The Pirates Place is a house owned by Jim Laracey. A spacious building, in a perpetual state of renovation, and in constant threat of foreclosure. But Jim is a man who loves music. His house is equipped with guitars in various states of construction, amps, drum kit, and fully working PA and mixing board.

Jim himself is something out of a Hemingway novel. A large man with a full beard, boisterous voice, and a big heart.

After soundcheck, we were treated to a huge meal of open faced tacos, salad and apple crumble. As I've stated before, we're eating better on the road than we do at home (so, mothers, do not fear!) Oh, the toppings! Last night, for the first time, I tasted cactus and emu meat. Wonderful.

With full bellies we hit the stage. From the first moment, we knew this was going to be a great show. We opened with the new track "East End". The audience (with a very hippy-leaning vibe), where up and dancing. The smiles couldn't be wiped from our faces.

Most of them knew our old songs, and sang along. During the new songs, they danced and cheered. I danced harder then I ever have on stage, at one point bringing the glockenspiel into the crowd for an interactive version of "Flash in the Pan".

At the end of the set, the audience staged the first sitting ovation I'd ever seen, hoping that Olenka would play a few quiet tunes to end their night. She obliged, and the rest of the band sat in with the audience, holding hands and clapping along.

It was truly a magical evening. The magic continued after the set, when our appreciative host gave Blair one of his guitars. True story. Turns out during the Autumn Lovers last visit, Jim had asked Blair to lean bottle neck guitar playing. Blair hadn't learned, citing the lack of a suitable guitar. Jim graciously handed him a semi-hollow ES 35 copy from his collection. Blair hasn't put it down since.

We must sincerely thank Jim, Leanne, Vanessa, and Zach for their hospitality. Now we're on the road to Moncton, playing an early show then it's off to Sackville for a big show at Georges! Talk soon.

tour journal: OAL Halifax

2010-10-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

Eating well on a tour is important. Usually you're stuck with meals on the road. Tim Hortons, Mcdonalds, etc. We've been extremely lucky on this tour, for example, this morning Patrick, Olenka and Kevin put together a wonderful meal of Fritata, potatoes, and crepes. It was glorious. After dishes, we went to the Dartmouth Value Village cause... well... i guess that's what you do.

The good folks at radio CKDU had us drop by to perform. We did a similar acoustic set to the one in Edmundston, except this time we were joined by Patrick Shmidt playing the banjo on a couple tracks. It's nice to extend the musical hand of friendship to someone as talented and humble as Pat.

OK, so this is a rough blog entry. To be honest, I'm tired, missin' my gal, and drinking a 14% brew that I picked up on the New Brunswick border. This stuff is awful and amazing at the same time.

With that in mind, I'll make this brief. We just played at the Company House here in Halifax, and it was a great show. It's so good to have Kevin back on stage playing the bass guitar. Patrick played some banjo, and a great time was had by all. The stage size at CoHo is perfect for a 4 piece folk/rock combo... but, at certain points, we're an 8 piece combo. So I played at the side of the stage, hopping on when I felt like my shaker playing needed to be front and center.

OK, that's enough of that. I've had half a glass of the crazy beer, and I'm drunk. So goodnight all!

Tour Journal OAL Edmonston + meeting old friends

2010-10-05T15:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks, Shawn here with your update from the road. After a wonderful experience at Montreal POP (Excluding various van problems, solved in part by the good folks at Hotel2Tango), we hit the road for the east coast. First stop Edmundston!

I know nothing about Edmundston. I drove through it once, to get from Quebec City and Sackville, that's about all I know. But we eventually pulled in front of a quaint little cafe called Lotus Bleu.

One of the great things about touring is that you really meet some of the nicest people in the world. Case in point, the staff at Lotus Bleu. Before we'd even hit the stage we had sold a number of CD's (including a couple of my own!). Olenka asked me to open with a four song set. The audience of about 40, where attentive and appreciative. Then Olenka hit the stage. It was a quiet show, so we had some constraints, we didn't set up the drums, and kept the horns in the car. Because of the constraints, the audience received a unique performance, featuring quieter songs like "Lark" and "Mary's Song" and a few old tunes, including the very little played "Tennessee" (By request).

After the show the staff served us one of the best meals we've had in a while. A tasty veggie-pate Sandwich with soup and salad! When dinner was finished we where taken to our lodgings. Half the band went to a local's place, and four of us went to a really nice B&B. It's really great to get a bed after four nights of a half inflated blow-up mattress.

We woke up early the next morning and picked up our equipment at the cafe. They graciously served us a breakfast sandwich and coffees. And we were on our way!

Kevin Braiser is a long time friend of the Autumn Lovers. Like me, he has an on again/off again relationship with the band. Kevin moved to Sackville NB not long again, and the rhythm section hasn't been quite the same. So, we called him up, and after very little convincing, talked him into joining us for a few shows. We picked him up at his place, had an inpromptu reggae dance party on the front lawn, and took the highway to Halifax.

That brings us pretty much up to date. We arrived in Halifax about an hour ago, pulled up to the house of our dear friend Patrick Schmidt (Slow Down Molasses). He prepared us a big meal of strawberry salad and Squash soup. and now where drinking Kev's homebrew and working out a setlist for tomorrow nights show at The Company House.

I've been seriously humbled by people here on the road; Andrea in Montreal, the staff at Lotus bleu, and Patrick here in Halifax. I'm told this is the norm, and we'll be meeting more great people in the next couple weeks. I can seriously get used to this touring thing.

Tour Journal: OAL Montreal take 2

2010-10-03T16:34:00.000-07:00

Shawn here, with part 2 of the tour journal. Where'd I leave off? Oh right, crappy van, Olenka on a bus back to London to get her car. Right.

After signing in for POP Montreal, having dinner and discovering the wonderful system of Bixi Bikes, we made plans to see free shows! First stop, O Patro Ve for the brilliant folk stylings of Fred Squire and the Graham Parson-esque songwriting of Daniel Romano. Daniel especially stood out for me, perfectly crafted songs.

Next stop was Sala Rosa. There we saw the AMAZING Naomi Shelton and the Gospel Queens. A really fantastic show to see for free! Blair in particular was taken up by the lord for this one.

Find tickets to concerts in montreal

The next day was showcase day. But, first thing first, how are we going to buy groceries to make dinner? Why, Busking, that's how! The remaining Autumn Lovers (or I guess the Autumn Lovers, minus the Olenka part), headed to a small parkette and went through a small collection of songs by Dylan, The Band, Beatles, Radiohead and various originals by Olenka (sans Olenka... very meta), Blair and myself. We made a cool $14! Enough to make a wonderful stir fry for 7!

Our showcase was at a place called Cabaret Playhouse. When mentioning this to local friends we were met with either blank stares, or knowing smirks. The Playhouse is more of a punk place, we were told, where a man dressed in leather runs the door. Although Olenka insists she was part of a burgeoning British Colombia punk scene during the 90's, we aren't anything you'd consider to be punk. You won't be seeing our string section with safety pins in their noses any time soon. But, it was a wavelength showcase, so we had a great time! Rattail in particular was exciting to watch, and Polydactic Heart was engaging. After wards we split up. Some went to the Deerhoof after party, but 2am seemed particularly late for me, so I went to bed.

That brings us to today. We've taken advantage of POP Montreal, hitting up a record show, and checking out the Patrick Watson curated show at the Ukrainian Center. Now we're about to partake in a wonderful Chili prepared by Simon and Blair. So, next stop is Edmundston NB, I'll try to get an update soon!

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Tour Journal: OAL Montreal... almost

2010-10-01T09:54:00.000-07:00

So where to begin... Lets start on Tuesday. That day was my last day at work. I was let go, without much warning, from a popular comedy club. But when a door is closed, another door... probably near the back of the house... is opened. My good friends Olenka and the Autumn Lovers where going on an east coast tour starting on Thursday. The way I looked at it, I wasn't going to have a job for about a month, I might as well be enjoying myself.

The van was to arrive in Toronto to pick me up at 12, noon. At 2pm they showed up. We were to showcase at POP Montreal later that night with a starting time of 10pm. The math sort of worked, 5 hour drive, get there at 7, quickly sign in and get to the venue for 8. What could go wrong?

Olenka is in possession of one of the worst vans currently on the road. Two tours have been changed, or reworked, because of this abomination of automotive science. So it wasn't much a surprise when somewhere around Cornwall, our windows were fogged up so bad that we had to have someone wipe it down every couple of minutes with Windex. Then, shockingly, a couple km's outside of Quebec, the van dies. It's beginning to look like we're not making the 10pm show. The folks at POP graciously decide to re-organize, and now we have a 1am start time.

The waiting game begins. We get a tow truck from CAA, he drives us into Quebec, and tells us it's a lot cheaper to get a tow truck from the Quebec side than have him drive us to Montreal. We wait again. The flat bed shows up, but wasn't informed about the taxi we were supposed to have taken care of, or the fact that we are going to Montreal. After some time, we finally get on the road, but 1am isn't going to happen.

We finally get into Montreal, our wonderful host meets us at her place and, somewhat defeated, we finally get some well deserved rest.... until...

8am. The van needs to be moved from the main road to a side street. We have a parking spot. Olenka takes the wheel, while Dan, Simon, Blair and myself begin pushing. We make a 7 point turn, and manage to parallel park with little to no damage.

Where does that leave us? Well, Olenka is on a bus back to London Ontario to get her car. We will hopefully rent a van to house the rest of us (we are talking with the folks in Young Galaxy about using theirs), and the good folks at POP are looking into another showcase for us. I guess this is life on the road!

This is my first blog post in a long time, but I hope to keep it up over the next couple of weeks, if anyone is interested.

Track of the Week: Wake Up Baby by Dion

2010-08-24T06:04:00.000-07:00

I never thought I'd find myself enjoying Dion. I don't know why. I always just associated him with lame music... it wasn't even based on anything... But yesterday I was in Soundscapes here in Toronto (one of my favorite stores FYI), and I'm checking out the listening booths, and there's a new reissue of "Wonder Where I'm Bound". Well, what a great album! By this time in his career, Dion had dropped a lot of the Do Wop that made him famous and was mixing Blues and folk elements... Needless to say, Columbia Records wasn't happy. So much of the stuff recorded during the mid-sixties haven't had a significant release. Anyways, check out this great tune, written by himself, called "Wake Up Baby"

Pretty great right?

While you're here, have a listen to his interesting take on the blues standard "Baby, Please Don't Go"

Awesome. Talk soon.

Track of the Week: Watermelon Man by Herbie Hancock AND Davy Graham

2010-08-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

One of my first Track of the Weeks was a Charles Mingus cover by the british folk/jazz musician Davy Graham. You can (and should) check that out right here. I've been listening to more Davy Graham these days, and got a hold of this great cover of Herbie Handcock's Watermelon Man.

First off, have a listen the Hancock version off "Headhunters":

Now, here's the acoustic cover by Davy Graham:

So good. Happy Wednesday!!

Track of the Week: The Lonely Bull by the Ventures

2010-08-06T08:12:00.000-07:00

Holy shit, it's been a while. OK. Here I am. Remember that contest I did a while ago for Putamayo? I totally have winners! So special congrats to Shannon in Toronto, and Jeanmarie in Michigan! You will have your copies very soon!

I do have a few more give-aways, but until then, how about some surf music from the Ventures? Sound good?

Track of the Week: Ramblin Man by Hank Williams

2010-07-13T06:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a little hesitant to post this. I feel like this song is a given. It's just so good. Maybe not as painfully obvious as "Your Cheatin' Heart", but well known none the less. I was really close to playing this song at one of my last shows, but had to drop it. Who would believe me to be half as cool (or as vagrant) as Hank Williams?! No one. That's who.

Track of the Week: Home Sweet Home by Robert Hedge

2010-07-07T06:13:00.001-07:00

Good morrow. My friend (and talented musician), Robert Hedge just released an 8 song LP called the Cleansing Fire. I'm a huge fan of his work, so I was excited to get my hands on a copy. It's really wonderful.

The first track on the album is a cover of Motley Crue's "Home Sweet Home". In Robert's hands the song is transformed into the type of dusty road cowboy song you'd expect at the end of a Roy Rogers western. It's a really great interpretation. Check it out, then head over to his website, and see what else he has to offer.

Toronto Love

2010-06-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hey there. Well, it's been a crazy few days for the city of Toronto, and the fall out will be felt for sometime. I'm not here to give my opinions on what went down at the G20. There are far too many questions, and far too much information to get things together so soon. Today I want to send a little love out to my city.

Earlier this week, Jessica from the blog Roundletters, asked if she could post my love song to the city, "To Think I Once Was Lost". She felt like the song kept her sane through the weekend, and wanted to share it with her readers. I though that was a great idea, so not only did I let her post it on her blog, I made it a free download for anyone who wanted it. So, I'm inviting my readers (you guys and gals!) to do the same. Feel free to click the link provided and download the song. Tell me what you think in the comments section. Let's spread a little love today!

If you dig the song, and want to hear more, you can always help a brother out and check out my iTunes account here:

Shawn Clarke on i-Tunes

I hope all is well, and Happy Canada Day!!

Track of the Week: Since I've Been Growing by David Newberry

2010-06-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

Hello! Long time no see. How ya been? I've been busy. Started working a new job for Yuk Yuks, booking shows, sending CD's everywhere, and did two CD release parties (they went swimmingly, thanks for asking). So, I will try my best to update a bit more, I promise.

I played the 10th annual Bob Dylan tribute in May, and I got to hear a guy who I think is going places. His name is David Newberry, check out the opening track from his album;

You can hear his album in it's entirety on his myspace page here

See ya soon!

Putumayo Giveaway 2: South Africa!!

2010-05-20T19:59:00.001-07:00

Helloooo! Last month I was put in a position to give away a CD from the great company Putumayo. For those who don't know the name, you'd know the product. Just take a look at this pic:

Look familiar? Right, you've seen these albums! Anyways, they've just released the one pictured above called "South Africa", and I have two to give away!! So... what should I ask you? Well, how about you name me one musician from Africa. That's all, email me at shawn_clarke25@hotmail.com, tell me the name of one African musician, and I'll send you a copy of this. Sound good?

In the mean time give this a peep, a wonderful little track from the compilation called "Orlando"

Track of the Week: How Can you Mend a Broken Heart by Al Green

2010-05-18T06:06:00.000-07:00

Ohhhhh Al Green. So good. So smooth... And still great (check out his last effort "Lay It Down"). My first introduction though was his brilliant '72 album "Let's Stay Together". And while the title track is a classic, I've always been drawn to "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart?"

What else can I say? Well, it was written by the BeeGees!

OFF TOPIC: Keep checking in, this week I'll be starting a Putamayo give-away series!

Track of the Week: Get Over Here by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion

2010-04-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

This is how to start your week. Loud and dirty. I first heard this album years ago, but I tend to forget how amazing it is. It's also one of the loudest albums on my i-Pod.

Rock out fuckers.

Putumayo give away winners!!

2010-04-21T12:57:00.001-07:00

Hey there! I just wanted to congratulate the two winners of last weeks Putumayo Give away!

Tiffany Brown of Orillia Ontario
and Hannah Burgie of Toronto Ontario

have both received a copy of the newest release "Putumayo presents Rhythm & Blues".

Now, don't be upset if you didn't win. The good folks at Putumayo got in contact with me and they want to give me more new releases! That means I'll be giving more to you!

So keep checking back, I'll be doing at least 4 or 5 more giveaways in the next couple months!

Track of the Week: Drunk Girls by LCD Soundsystem

2010-04-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

I Love LCD Soundsystem. And they have a new album coming out! So check out this awesome video (co-directed by Spike Jones) for the first single "Drunk Girls"!

Also, the new album is currently streaming over at their website!! COOL!

Putumayo Give away

2010-04-16T09:42:00.001-07:00

Hey folks, I put up a contest last week, giving away 2 copy of "Putumayo Presents Rhythm and Blues", I've given one away so far, and I have one more! It features the music of R&B singers Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, James Hunter, Irma Thomas and legends the Emotions.

So congrats to Tiffany Little in Orillia Ontario! If you want the other copy of this nice little compilation, email me at shawn_clarke25@hotmail.com

Thanks! Talk soon.

2010-04-15T08:32:00.001-07:00

Man, I haven't done one of these in a while. One of them main reasons is that I've been so in debt these days! What with the paying for my new album, and borrowing loads of money (to pay for my new album). That means, I can't afford to go to shows. That makes me sad, so I try to avoid looking into what's going on.

Anyways, I'm still poor, but you may not be! Check this stuff out:

THURS APRIL 15

Daniel Fred and Julie at Horseshoe Tavern
I don't know very much about this act, other than Julie is the wonderful Julie Doiron, and that the music is pure folk. The tracks on their myspace are great. Should be a good bet.

FRI APRIL 16

Plants and Animals CD release at Horseshoe Tavern
Plants and Animals were a band it took me a while to get into. Now that I am digging their sound a bit more, I'm curious about there new album. EDIT: THIS SHOW IS ACTUALLY ON TUESDAY APRIL 20th. THANKS FOR KEEPING ME HONEST MECHANICAL FOREST SOUND!!

SATURDAY APRIL 17

The Tallest Man on Earth at El Mocambo
THIS is why I didn't want to look into whats going on this week. The Tallest Man on Earth released one of the best albums of the decade with 2008's Shallow Grave. He has a new album out... I can't afford it.... damn. This just makes me mad!! Please go to this.

MON APRIL 19

The Specials at Sound Academy
This is sold out. That sucks. Who doesn't want to see the Specials?! Maybe you can get scalper tickets, it'd probably be worth it.

TUES APRIL 20

Los Campesinos! at Phoenix Concert Theatre
Arguably the most fun you can have with an Arts & Crafts artist. And that's saying a lot.

Track of the Week: Tonight I'll be Staying Here With You by Bob Dylan & The Rolling Thunder Revue

2010-04-13T09:13:00.000-07:00

I'm a huge fan of the Bob Dylan Bootleg series, although I can never afford them. Recently I got a hold of Live 1975 The Rolling Thunder Revue (bootleg Series Vol. 5). After a lackluster tour with the band, Dylan decided to try something different. So he assembled a huge cast of musicians and friends, and went on a cross country tour as the Rolling Thunder Revue.

The energy and musicianship really stand out on this tour document. Dylan is frequently reworking songs, some are unrecognizable. Check out this exciting version of "Tonight I'll be Staying Here With You".

Here's one more. The band reworks his classic "Just Like a Women", with the obvious influence of Bowie guitarist Mick Ronson.

Track of the Week: Handle with Care by the Traveling Wilburys

2010-04-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

The Traveling Wilburys maybe one of the only worthwhile supergroups. Most are bogged down by ego, with no obvious musical direction. George Harrison, Roy Orbison, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan and Jeff Lynne managed to fill an album full of great songs (plus one more very good album after Orbison's passing). I had a long chat last night about how perfect the track "Handle With Care" is.

To think, this song was almost a B-side to one of Harrison's "Cloud Nine" tracks. Luckily, the right people heard it and insisted it be put to better use. Harrison's vocals are smooth as ever, but the real treat is Roy Orbison's Chorus. A powerhouse up to the day he died.

Giveaway!!

2010-03-30T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey guys and gals, I mentioned yesterday that I have received a couple copies of "Putumayo Presents Rhythm and Blues" from the good folks at Putumayo. If you're not familiar with the name Putumayo, you'd definitely be familiar with their work. They've been releasing compilations of music from around the world for the last 17 years. While sometimes I find their choices to be a little on the safe side, they must be commended for providing a platform for music that may otherwise go unnoticed here in North America.

That said, the compilation I currently have in my possession (and would love to give to you), contains Rhythm and blues from the States and UK. A few stand out tracks for me are: "My Honey and Me" by the Emotions (A 70's soul cut by the group that brought us "Best of My Love"); a surprisingly restrained version of Willie Dixon's "Wang Dang Doodle" by Sam Moore, Keb Mo, and Angie Stone; The wonderful, previously unheard by me, Rockie Charles; and of coarse the always show-stopping Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings.

So here's what I want you to do, email me at shawn_clarke25@hotmail.com with answer to this question: Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings have an album coming out April 6th. What is the name of the album? (hint, maybe this link will help).

The first two to send me the answer will get a copy of this compilation. In the mean time, check out this track from the album "Before I find the Right Girl for Me" by Rockie Charles.

Track of the Week: Jimmy by Devo

2010-03-29T12:42:00.000-07:00

"Jimmy's in a wheelchair and I don't care".

I love Devo. That is all.

No, wait that's not all. Tomorrow is competition time! I'll be putting up a skill testing question, and the winners will receive one of 2 copies of Putamayo Presents Rhythm and Blues!

For fans of Rhythm. Fans of Blues.

Check in tomorrow.

Track of the Week: Prime by Marnie Stern

2010-03-26T05:28:00.000-07:00

I was out at the Drake last night seeing another great No Shame event featuring Maylee Todd. She's really great. Quirky and soulful, cute and foul-mouthed. I'd love to post one of her tracks but alas, I don't have any of her music. So instead, I'm posting another really great (and totally different, stylistically) female artist.

Marnie Stern is a killer guitarist, vocalist and front women. Her music is rhythmically complex, and hard rocking. This is the first track from her 2008 release "this is it, and I am it and You are it", called Prime.

100th artist on Southern Souls!

2010-03-25T10:07:00.001-07:00

Hey folks, just want to make a quick shout out to Mitch Fillion. As most of you may know Mitch is the man behind Southern Souls, a video site that highlights the best of up and coming music in Ontario. What makes his site special is that Mitch goes out of the way to find interesting places to shoot most of the acts.

Mitch celebrated his 100th artist, and you should definitely check it out at

SouthernSouls.ca

And while you're there, check out some of my favorites: Olenka and the Autumn Lovers in a lamp store! Bahamas by the fire! Grand Analog at an abandoned Lee's Palace! It's really just so much fun exploring the site. OH, and I'm on there too! So, you know, check that out!

New Broken Social Scene!

2010-03-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, I'm a Broken Social Scene fan from way back. So I was excited to hear the other day that they've put up a couple new songs. I'm really interested in the new album. The first without producer David Newfeild. This time they have Tortoise's John McEntire. Here are three tracks, I particularly like "All to All".

What do you guys think?

Track of the Week: Love More by Sharon Van Etten

2010-03-16T05:47:00.000-07:00

While searching through websites the other day I came across a post about what to see (and not to see) as SXSW. One of the "to See" was Sharon Van Etten. I know very little about Sharon, but she had a free download of this gorgeous song which you can find here at the Weathervane music Blog. I just want to hear more.

Lovely weather today. Enjoy it.

Track of the Week: Someone's Favorite Song by Sunfall Festival

2010-03-12T14:54:00.001-08:00

I don't know if you remember garageband.com or not, but back in the early 00's (well actually it looks like it's still a running site...), you could rate peoples music, and if you rated a certain amount you could get one of their CD's for free! (even earlier than when I was doing it, you could get a gift certificate from HMV). Anyways, I ended up with 2 CD's, one was the Pocket Dwellers great funk/hip-hop/jazz hybrid album Digitally Organic. The other was from an American band called Sunfall Festival. This female fronted band took the best things about Six Pence None the Richer (hold on it gets better) and mixed it with a touch of Radiohead and a great pop sensibility. I had forgotten about their album Monday 23 for a good number of years, but the other night I woke up with this song in my head. Hope you enjoy it, and have a great weekend!

This Week in Toronto: March 11 - 17

2010-03-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

Hello, long time no see. I promise to put up my track of the week tomorrow, but here's what you can get up to this week. You'll notice I'm avoiding CMW stuff. That's for good reason. Seeing a band on a tight schedule with 5 other acts, at a packed venue with people who aren't listening is not the scene for me. So instead, why not get up to this!

THURS MARCH 11

Little Foot Long Foot at the Central
Hard blues rockin duo Little Foot Long Foot are always a good time. Think a Role reversed White Stripes.

SAT MARCH 12

Joanna Newsom at the phoenix Concert Theatre
The always interesting and intelligent Joanna Newsom brings her particular brand of... I don't know... folk?... to the Phoenix Concert Theatre! It looks like an early show, doors at 6.

SUNDAY MARCH 13

Tillie's Punctured Romance playing at Revue Cinema 4pm
One of Charlie Chaplin's first films! A silent film in a theatre on a Sunday afternoon, I can't think of a better way to spend my time!

Track of the Week: Gimme A Holler by Bill Frisell

2010-03-02T06:05:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks. Back in 97' the great jazz guitarist Bill Frisell released one of the finest Nashville records ever made, suitably titled "Nashville". There are so many great tracks here, I'm always drawn to one in particular, Gimme A Holler. Check it out, then get your hands on the full album, you won't be disappointed.

Track of the Week: Johnny is the Boy For Me by Les Paul and Mary Ford

2010-02-21T19:42:00.000-08:00

I Love Les Paul and Mary Ford. Love Love love them. Les Paul as we all know was a genius. Multi track recording aside, the man could play the guitar. He was doing things decades ago that still amazes me. Like check out this track, Johnny Is The Boy For Me,

Less talked about is Mary Ford. What a voice! She also doesn't get credit for being a very competant guitarist as well. Check out the clever back and forth between her and Les Paul in this video.

Have a good week!

Track of the Week: Your Love's Return by Gordon Lightfoot

2010-02-19T05:51:00.000-08:00

We had a bit of a scary yesterday. The Calgary Herald and National Post where carrying the story that Gordon Lightfoot had died. Like so many others, I was saddened to hear the passing of one of Canada's finest songwriters. As a musician from Orillia I felt a sort of kinship with Lightfoot. Luckily, his death was turned out to be a hoax. I guess it shows how hurting the print industry is when they'll jump at any possible lead, this one being a twitter post... a twitter post? Who the hell believes anything on twitter?

Anyways, I spent some time reaquanting my self with Lightfoot's work, and gravitated towards this jem, Your Love's Return.

Sorry about the late Track of the Week, I promise one on Monday morning, back to normal!

This Week in Toronto Feb 18-24

2010-02-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Hey there, sorry about the lack of content this week. A lack of money keeps me inside a lot, so that means, no shows, no buying new albums, etc. But I do have some shows you should check out this week.

THURS FEB 18

Tortoise at Lee's Palace
Dammit!! It's shows like that this that makes me mad I have no money. I love Tortoise. Damn.

FRI FEB 19

Chali 2na at Revival
Jurassic 5 main man is helping celebrate the 3rd anniversary of Hip Hop Karaoke! Does that mean he'll be doing Sugar Hill Gang covers? God, I hope so.

SAT FEB 20

Schomberg Fair at the Horseshoe
Just starting to get into these guys. It's like... well, on their myspace, they call it speed gospel. I like that. Check out their page, this music has to be heard to be believed.

TUES FEB 23

M. Hulot's Holiday playing at Bloor Cinema 4:30
This is one of my all time favorite movies. It's situational comedy at it's best, very little dialogue. Jacques Tati was one of films great geniuses.

WED FEB 24

Gentleman Reg Residency at the Drake
This is the one with By Divine Right! Nice. *EDIT* Actually it's Evening Hymns this week! I missed By Divine Right, thanks to Jen at Narratives for the correction!

Metropolis NEWS!

2010-02-12T07:14:00.001-08:00

A while back I posted a story about a big find in the world of cinema. A still intact full print of Metropolis, the classic silent sci-fi film, was found in Buenos Aires (of all places). What makes it such a big find is that there is a reported 1 hour of unseen footage! Amazing. Anyways, Roger Ebert has a story about how you can maybe see the full film screened on the web today! I urge you to check out his post, and watch. If we can get it here in Canada, I'll definitely be viewing!

Again; check out THIS POST, then try to make some time to see the full original cut of Metropolis!

This Week in Toronto Feb 11-17

2010-02-11T05:51:00.000-08:00

THURS FEB 11

Wavelength 500 featuring Holy Fuck at Steamwhistle
Wavelength continues it's big celebration with Holy Fuck, Russian Futurists, FemBots, Diamond Rings and Professor Fingers

FRI FEB 12

Wavelength 500 Featuring From Fiction
I'm not familiar with From Fiction, but appearantly this is a reunion of sorts... more exciting is the night also features a reunited Bicycles, Laura Barrett, Magic Cheezies and Young Mother

SAT FEB 13

Wavelength 500 featuring the Constantines at Polish Combatants Hall
Constantines! also featuring a reunited Rockets Red Glare, Donne Roberts, Picastro and Danger Bay.

SUN FEB 14

George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic at Phoenix Concert Theatre
This is how you celebrate Valentines Day.

WED FEB 17

Gentleman Reg at The Drake
The 3rd in a Gentleman Reg residancy at the Drake. This one also features Dance Yourself to Death and Sheezer. Maybe other surprise guests.

Track of the Week: Kiss Another Day Goodbye by David Kauffman

2010-02-08T06:14:00.000-08:00

So I've mentioned the Numero Group many times on this blog. I absolutely love their compilations. I've really enjoyed the Wayfaring Strangers series. One of them is called Lonesome Heroes, and features 17 tracks by unknown folk musicians from the 60's and 70's. One of the tracks particularly caught my ear.

Kiss Another Day Goodbye is a heartbreaking track, maybe a little sad for a Monday morning, but you take the sour with the sweet I guess.

"I don't know how much longer I can live the way I live and never die. I don't know how much longer I can kiss another day goodbye".

This Week in Toronto Feb 4-10

2010-02-04T07:20:00.000-08:00

THURS FEB 4

Lisa Bozikovic at The Holy Oak Cafe
I'm loving Lisa's new album Lost August, I even included her track "Grey Sky" as Mondays track of the week. She's playing tonight at the incredibly intimate Holy Oak Cafe. I'm gonna try to make it, see ya there!

FRI FEB 5

Martha and the Muffins CD release at the Music Gallery
The "Echo Beach" new wave rockers will be releasing their first album in 18 years! Playing Friday and Saturday at the Music Gallery, with Birds favorite Wilderness of Manitoba opening! Nice.

SAT FEB 6

Great Lake Swimmers at Trinity St. Paul Church (427 Bloor St W)
If there was ever a band to see in a church, this is it. I know, I've seen them in a church.

MON FEB 8

Magnetic Fields and Laura Barret at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
It's great to see some of my favorite local acts getting the chance to play with bigger acts coming through town. Wilderness of Manitoba opening for Martha and the Muffins, and Laura Barrett opening for the Magnetic Fields. Plus I love the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

TUES FEB 9

Daryl Orr Jazz band at Gate 403
Man, I haven't been out to see a jazz band in some time. I can only assume that you haven't either. So, how about we meet up in my neighbourhood at Gate 403? A pint and some jazz? Anyone?

WED FEB 10

Wavelength 10th anniversary concert
This is the start of a 5 night event! Tonight will be Bruce Peninsula, Evening Hymns, Pony Da Look, Deep Dark United, and Canaille. To see times and who else is playing this week, check out the facebook page here.

OH! Canada compilation

2010-02-03T07:56:00.000-08:00

Hey there. Not sure if you've seen any of these yet, but a really great website out of England puts out a compilation called OH! Canada featuring (you guessed it) Canadian music. They just put together their 7th one, and it's free to download at their site! The music is always great, this one features some of our finest; Zeus, The Wooden Sky, Slow Down Molasses, Spiral Beach and more!!

Check it out here at The Line of Best Fit dot com.

I mentioned it's free right?

Video: Frightened Rabbit- Nothing Like You

2010-02-02T07:28:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, the good people at Fat Cat Records hooked me up with a spot on the guest list to see Frightened Rabbit. I had just gotten into them, and was excited to go! The show was great, high energy rock and roll. Today I received a video for their new single "Nothing like you". It will be the lead single from their upcoming album The Winter Of Mixed Drinks.

Frightened Rabbit on MUZU

What did ya think? These scots will be playing in our fair city on May 4th, you can catch them in Montreal the night before.

Happy Tuesday!

Track of the Week: Grey Sky by Lisa Bozikovic

2010-02-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

It's really interesting how music scenes work. Everyone will just start talking about someone. It will seem like collective concionce or something.... For example, last week I picked up the new album by Lisa Bozikovic. Typical situation, I walk into Soundscapes records, do the round of listening stations and find something I love. That very day I had 3 people bring her up to me.

Lisa has a very unique voice, a voice that stays with you. Her songs are heartfelt, and one of my personal favorites is Grey Sky. I love the horn pads.

Lisa is playing Thursday night at the Holy Oak. I'll probably be there, say hello!

Track of the Week: Country Music

2010-01-25T06:56:00.000-08:00

Country music didn't always suck. It was never perfect, you will always find crap in every genre, but the country music of today manages to be ALL crap. How did it get there?! Is it as simple as country always panders to the lowest common denominator, mix that with record exec mentality for cookie cutter products produced with the finest gear?

Or maybe old country wasn't good. Maybe there is just a nostalgia connected to the music. For example I can't hear anything by Patsy Cline without thinking about my mother doing house work when I was young.

Not to say there aren't people still making good country music. I just picked up Rosanne Cash's new album "The List". Apparently when Rosanne was 18 she went on tour with her father Johnny Cash. During a conversation about songs and songwriting, Johnny was surprised at Rosanne's lack of understanding of the country greats. So he wrote her a list of 100 essential country songs. "The List" compiles 12 of these songs, including this one, "Sea of Heartbreak" featuring Bruce Springsteen.

I love some of the voices of country music. One of my favorites is Roy Orbison. Orbison got his start in Rock and Roll, but like Johnny Cash, his heart was in country music. He had one of the most exciting voices in music. Capable of strong soaring falsetto as well as a tender baritone.

His influence can be felt today. Rock singer Chris Isaak has been mining that sound for 2 decades. Here he covers Orbison's Only The Lonely

Thats a good chunk of songs for today! Happy Monday y'all!

No Shame: Wilderness Of Manitoba, Ghost Bees, Casey Mecija

2010-01-22T06:54:00.000-08:00

Last night I finally got out of the house, after finding $8 worth of change to pay for cover, and walked the 40 minutes from my house to the Garrison. Last nights event, put on by No Shame (the new exciting promotion company) featured a great lineup of Casey Mecija (of Ohbijou fame), Ghost Bees, and Wilderness of Manitoba.

I'll get to the show in a bit, but first a quick question to most of the audience; Who where you there to see last night? I only ask because a good amount of you talked through the whole show. As a case study I picked a couple small groups around the room and from time to time would observe them. The talked through Casey Mecija's set. The talked through Ghost Bee's set (although they may be forgiven for it, more on that later), and they talked through the Wilderness set. Why did they pay $8 to be there?! It's one thing to have a small conversation once in a while, but....

Anyways, on with the show. Casey put on a short set of new songs (with the odd Ohbijou cover), playing guitar, a bass drum and hi hat. She has a sweet voice, and I didn't really miss the full band she's usually with.

Ghost Bee's had problems from the beginning. At the time of their performance the keyboard player had yet to show up. So the already restless audience became more restless, and by the time the show got started barely anyone was listening. The normal Ghost Bees lineup of twins Romy and Sari was extended to add John O'Reagan (Diamond Rings) and the late keyboard player who's name I didn't catch. The additions weren't very helpful. Not to blame the musicians, but Ghost Bees are really an entity of their own, I honestly don't know what anybody could add to their unique sound. Seriously if you can see them in a more suitable venue, do it. Ghost Bees can be one of the most mesmerizing acts around, last night just wasn't the night.

photo by Dallas Ludwick

The Wilderness of Manitoba are rising fast. Not only are they rising in popularity and praise, but they're progressing musically at a fast rate. The addition of Sean Lancaric on drums has brought the band to a new level. Now we get the dynamic range only hinted at on "Hymns of Love and Spirit". I can't wait to hear their new album, which we'll hopefully be seeing sometime this summer.

Well that's all folks. It looks like I'm being dragged to the CBC haiti benefit tonight which, although for a good cause, features the worst of Canadian music. I just hope Kanaan sings something other than "Waving Flag".

This day in Toronto: Thurs Jan 21

2010-01-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hey kids. Just a quick one today. I'll try to get the rest of the week up later today. On this day you have some seriously awesome choices for shows, they are as follows:

Dinosaur Jr at Sonic Boom 6:30
This is awesome for so many reasons. The big one is that it's free! Dinosaur Jr! for Free!! In a small intimate room!! Get there early.

Wilderness of Manitoba, Ghost Bees, and Casey Mecija at the Garrison
The good folks at No Shame have put together another stellar lineup. Wilderness sound better every time I see them play, Ghost Bees are one of the most mesmerizing acts playing today, and Casey Mecija... well, I'm really curious to see what her solo work is going to be like. I do enjoy Ohbijou, so I imagine it'll be great.

Track of the Week: Can't Run But by Paul Simon

2010-01-18T05:38:00.000-08:00

I recently got a hold of the entire Paul Simon discography. I've always liked Paul Simon, but have avoided his albums for some reason. Anyways, one of his most interesting albums is "The Rhythm of the Saints". Released after "Graceland", "Saints" retains some of the formers south African influences and adds a healthy dab of Brazilian music.

"Can't Run But" is rhythmically charged, and it's melodies and chords create an eerie back drop for Simons lyrics, concerning Chernobyl.

This Week in Toronto Jan 14 - 20

2010-01-14T07:33:00.000-08:00

Hey folks. OK, I'm gonna rush this, because I'm off to New York City tomorrow, and I gotta get some things together. Sooooooooooooo check this yo.

THURS JAN 14

The Strip CD release at Hugh's Room
Good folks, releasing their 2nd CD (although I think it's just a duo on the album), at one of Toronto's finest venues. The Donfors are opening as well. So a good night of music!

SAT JAN 23

Clues at Comfort Zone... Silver Dollar?
Former Unicorns and Arcade Fire folk got together to form Clues. I haven't heard much of their music, but what I have heard is intriguing. So, I think it's at Comfort Zone, but Eye Weekly is showing it at Comfort Zone AND Silver Dollar at 9pm... I can't imagine it's at both. Maybe show up a bit early and check.

SUN JAN 24

Wale Tooth at The Garrison
Part of the always exciting Wavelength series. Whale Tooth is good fun.

MON JAN 25

Kill Bill Vol 1 and 2 playing at Bloor Cinema
See Tarantino's brilliant and fun take on samarai, spaghetti Westerns, and revenge films. It will be a great double feature.

TUES JAN 26

Robert Hedge at the Horseshoe
Robert released one of the best EP's of the year, "The Observer". You can go pick it up, and/or just say happy birthday (it's his birthday!) on Tuesday. He's on first, so get there early.

Track of the Week: Don Beggs by Caroline Peyton

2010-01-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

So I was at the Eddie Orso show at the Rivoli on Friday. Great show. Eddie and his band where solid! Can't wait to get a hold of the album. Also on the bill that night was a Birds favorite Valery Gore. I was thinking of Valery just the other day, when I picked up the album Mock Up by Caroline Peyton. I found out about Caroline Peyton through the great reissue company Numero Group, one of her tracks featured on their Wayfaring Strangers: Ladies from the Canyon compilation. I then got a hold of a reissue of her 1972 album Mock Up.... So, what does this have to do with Val Gore? Well.... um... I don't know exactly. I guess I thought she'd appreciate Peyton's unique combination of folk and jazz.

Anyways, this song is probably the most out-there track on the album. It really shows off Caroline's vocal range and technique. Check out more of the tracks here.

Oh, and if you're reading this Val, you're more then welcome to borrow the album from me anytime!

This Week in Toronto Jan 7 - 13

2010-01-07T06:35:00.001-08:00

Ahoy! It's getting cold, but that shouldn't stop you from getting out to some good shows this week!

THURS JAN 7

Fitness Club Fiasco at Clintons Tavern
All the way from "Bristol" comes Fitness Club Fiasco. This is a fun band, think Postal Service... but not too much.

FRI JAN 8

Eddie Orso and Valery Gore at the Rivoli
Great double bill! Eddie and Valery both put on great shows, so this is a great chance to see both!!

SUN JAN 10

Bahamas at Garrison
Bahamas released a great, under heard album last year. And this duo put on a great show. Great way to spend a Sunday night.

TUES JAN 11

Owen Pallett and Diamond Rings at Mod Club
I'm so glad Owen dropped "Final Fantasy". Worst band name ever. See him at the Mod Club with Toronto sensation Diamond Rings.

WED JAN 12

Will Currie and the Country French at Supermarket
I'm not exactly familiar with this band. But enough people with trustworthy opinions are talking about them. See what the hype is about!

Track of the Week: Tell Me Why by Neil Young

2010-01-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

I listened to 5 Neil Young albums yesterday, for no good reason other than I was lazy and bored and had no money. I had forgotten what a great album "After the Gold Rush" is. One great song after another, I suggest if you haven't listened to it in a while, dust if off and give it a spin.

One of my favorite songs of the album is opener "Tell Me Why". A jaunty acoustic guitar leads off, followed closly by one of Neil's greatest melodies. The full harmonies that follow are fantastic.

seriously though, give the whole album a listen if you have the chance. One of his best.

Lists! The Best of 09 by A Horse and His Boy!

2010-01-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

Happy 2010!!! It's a little tarty, but I finally got a list from the band A Horse And His Boy! Apparently there was a lot of infighting over this, so I'm thankful I got it at all. For those who don't know, A Horse And His Boy are one of London Ontario's most exciting new acts. They're loud, danceable, and a great bunch of guys. Here we go... oh and due to some confusion, it's a top 12 list!

Grizzly Bear - Veckatimest

Tom Waits - Glitter and Doom

Animal Collective - Merriweather Post Pavilion

Dirty Projectors - Bitte Orca

Atlas Sound - Logos

Washed Out - Life of Leisure

St. Vincent - Actor

Dead Mellotron - Ghost Light Constellation

Timber Timbre - Timber Timbre

Animal Collective - Fall Be Kind

Flying Lotus - L.A. EP 3 X 3

Land of Kush - Against the Day

This Week in Toronto Dec 31- Jan 6

2009-12-31T07:27:00.000-08:00

Hey, how's your last day of the year going? Any crazy new year plans? Did you like my Top Ten Albums of the Year list form yesterday? Here's a couple ways to spend the rest of the week

THURS DEC 31

By now, you know what to do tonight. If you don't, I suggest just getting a hold of your good friends. My best New Years eve's have always been about good friends over location. Drink responsibly, and if you don't, take the TTC. They're free from midnight until 4.

SAT JAN 2

The Red Shoes playing at Cinematheque Ontario 7pm
Micheal Powell and Emeric Pressburger directed some great films through the mid part of the century (personal favorites include Peeping Tom, Black Narcissus and The Life And Times of Colonel Blimp). In 1948 the took on the world of ballet (loosely adapting the Hans Christian Anderson story) in The Red Shoes. This is a stunning film.

SUN JAN 3

Muskox at Tranzac 5pm
This fantastic instrumental act is on first at the Tranzac, so make sure you arrive early (or on time... 5pm people!)

MON JAN 4

Harold and Maude playing at Bloor Cinema 9:05
This print seems to be in constant rotation, but I can't stress enough how great the movie is. A quirky inter-generational love story. Wes Anderson owes this movie his life.

WED JAN 6

Matt Paxton at Supermarket
Brittle voiced songwriter Matt Paxton plays the Supermarket.

Top 10 albums of the year!!

2009-12-30T05:05:00.000-08:00

Well here it is! My personal top 10 albums of the year. A couple notes, first of all, as I said with my top ten songs podcast, this isn't a definitive list. I haven't heard every album released this year, plus I have a horrible memory, so it's possible I completely forgot something. Another thing, I've been listening to far more Canadian albums than anything else this year, and my list reflects that, with half Canadian artists and half American. Ultimately I hope this list will give you a few things to check out in the new year, or if you have the albums, maybe you'll put them on again. Here goes.

10. Barzin- Notes to an Absent Lover

In the early half of the year I first heard Barzin's somber Notes to an Absent Lover. What really interests me about this album is how concise it is. There is nothing extraneous about it. Barzin incorporates a small band to support his stories, only adding a harmonica here, or an accordion there when necessary. A slow burning tribute to lost love.

9. Evening Hymns- Spirit Guides

I'm currently in the process of finishing my first full length album. Things are sounding fantastic, and I couldn't be happier with how it's turning out. But, there were two moments within the last few months when I felt like I was out my league. One was hearing Evening Hymns Spirit Guides for the first time. Where Barzin simplifies, Evening Hymns diversify. Strings, horns and choirs appear and disappear, but are never excessive. The music moves like the nature described in the songs. There are really only 7 songs here (track 7 of 8 is just the sounds of a storm), but they outline a career of great music to come. (Listen to "Dead Deer" in my Top 10 Songs podcast).

8. St. Vincent- Actor

Brooklyn is well represented on this list. I think 4 or the artists are based there. Including St. Vincent. What really keeps me coming back is front women Annie Clark. Her soft, angelic voice contrasts almost jarringly with her crunchy guitar tone. And who would have thought that the tastiest riffs of the year would be written by a women from Brooklyn? Well, they were.

7. Mos Def- The Estatic

Can Mos Def do any wrong? Why is it that everything he does is gold? Brooklyn is well represented again, Mos Def's 4th album may be the best of his already brilliant career. mixing elements of soul, afro-beat with hip-hop and rock and roll. it doesn't hurt to have producers Madlib, Oh No and J Dilla on your side, pulling some of their most exciting samples out of the crates.

6. Bruce Peninsula- A Mountain is a Mouth

There is a dark element creeping in a lot of the best music of 09'. Maybe it's just a fad, or a sign of the times. But if an apocalypse is coming, I want Bruce Peninsula as the soundtrack. They employ a large choir of voices, singing unison or simple harmonies, to create a sense of urgency in their songs. This is a band to see in a good venue. I got a chance to see them in a turn of the century Grist mill in Waterloo, and it was one of the best shows I'd seen all year.

5. Dirty Projectors- Bitte Orca

What to say about the Dirty Projectors? Easily the most original act of 2009 (I know, bold statement), Dirty Projectors really need to be heard to be understood. I can't do it justice in print. Frontman Dave Longstreth has to be slightly crazy. His music is rhythmically and melodically all over the map, and yet somehow it manages to be accessible. The female harmonies are intricate and the band is tight, that probably has to do with the reported constant and lengthy rehearsals. Check out the track Two Doves on my Top 10 songs of 09 podcast.

4. Grizzly Bear- Veckatimest

Challenging and accessible is a difficult combination. Dirty Projectors do it to a point, but Grizzly Bear really acheives it on Veckatimest. Grizzly Bear manages to make one of the best pop albums of the year disguised as experimental Indie rock. The single "Two Weeks" is easily the catchiest song of the year. I'm also excited to see that intricate vocal harmonies were big this year (as they were last year with acts like Fleet Foxes). Check out "Two Weeks" in my 10 of 09 podcast.

3. Dan Auerbach- Keep It Hid

Black Keys Dan Auerbach goes it alone on Keep it Hid. A fine blend of all the best sounds of the 60's; Soul, folk and Psychelelic Rock. Dan shows a soft touch on ballads like "When the Night Comes", but then counters with dirty Psych rock like "I Want Some More". And although the songs on paper sound like they're on opposite ends of the musical spectrum, the production (mostly employing analog and vintage gear) ties everything together as the greatest 60's album never released. (Listen to "When The Night Comes" in my top 10 podcast)

2. Patrick Watson- Wooden Arms

I mentioned hearing Evening Hymns was one experience that briefly had me second guessing my own musical experience. The other was seeing Patrick Watson last month at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. The man is a showman of the highest order. And he and his band deliver great music. Wooden Arms is the album that should have won the Polaris. Interesting percussion, and eclectic music supports Patrick's soring falsetto. Check out "Beijing" in the Best of 09 Podcast.

1. Timber Timbre- Self Titled

The moment I saw Timber Timbre for the first time, I knew this was an act to watch. Front man Taylor Kirk captivates an audience in a way I've never seen before. The album is a mixture of blues, Old time rock and roll, and dust bowl folk. Taylor is of a rare breed in this day and age, he's a storyteller, and his lyrics often send chills down my spine. For example take this verse from "Lay Down in the Tall Grass":

I dreamt you found me out in a field
You tripped over my site
And you dug me out of this shallow grave
with your Swiss Army knife
And only you could revive me, so badly decomposed
I was born white, dry, and scaly
but you still took me home

He knows what came before him, the album is full of homages to past masters, both lyrically and musically.
Check out "Demon Host" in my Top 10 of 09' podcast.

Honorable Mention (or, the next 10)

Sam Allen- Landscapes, A Horse and His Boy- Self Titled, Wilderness of Manitoba- Hymns of Love and Spirit, Bell Orchestre- As Seen Through Windows, Robert Hedge- The Observer EP, Fucked Up- The Chemistry of Common Life, Oubijou- Beacons, Kanaan- Troubadour, Sick Friend- Sleep Late, Brooke Manning- Bride and Loom

Best Compilation

Dark Was the Night
The folks behind 1993's No Alternative compilation (remember that?) out did their selves with Dark Was the Night. A collection of new and unreleased songs from a who's who of the current indie music scene raising awareness for AIDS/HIV. Unlike most compilations, this one if full of great tunes. featuring Grizzly Bear, Fiest, Dirty Projectors (with David Byrne!!), Decemberists, Conor Oberst (with Gillian Welsh), Yo La Tengo and many more. It also features Sufjan Stevens brilliant, epic cover of You Are the Blood, found in my top ten songs podcast.

Well that's it! See you kids in the next year!

List! Best of 09 by Nathan Noble

2009-12-29T09:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a third entry into the guest top ten albums of 09! A Horse and His Boy is a great dance punk act out of London Ontario, a while back I sent them a request for a band-picked top 10 list. Apparently that is still in the works, but Keyboardist/singer Nathan Noble sent me his personal list AND his 10 ten concerts of 09! I love how diverse the three lists (other 2 by illustrator Andrew Patterson, and singer/songwriter Eddie Orso) are. Here we go!

Photo by Andrew Colvin

Top Ten Albums or EP's of 2009 late 08 (in no particular order)

St. Vincent - Actor

The Most Serene Republic ..And The Ever Expanding Universe

Pick A Piper S/T EP

Dead Mellotron - Ghost Light Constellation

Bruce Peninsula -A Mountain Is A Mouth

Fraser- House on a Hill

Timber Timbre -S/T

Foals - Antidotes

A Lending Library - Halloween

The Riderless- Auction

Nathan's top live acts of recent memory. (in no particular order)

The Winks
Braids
Fond of Tigers
Aleks and The Ramps
Sick Friend
Olenka & The Autumn Lovers
Birds Across Water
Nomo
Exit 2012
The Riderless
Timber Timbre
St. Vincent

Thanks Nathan! Well, folks tomorrow is the day that I finally get my top 10 albums list up!! So make sure you check that shit out. Talk soon.

Best Songs of '09 Podcast

2009-12-27T10:51:00.000-08:00

Howdy folks. I usually put up a track of the week on Monday, but I'm doing something different today. I've put together 10 of my favorite songs released this year, in podcast form, and I believe you can download this one! Now, of coarse this isn't definitive. There are lots of songs I didn't hear this year, and I've probably forgotten a few good ones I have heard. But hopefully this will give you an hour of good listening. I'd love to know what songs all of you dug this year, so please feel free to list them in the comments section. Here is the podcast. I've posted the complete list below it, if you're too impatient to listen for your favorite song.

Two Weeks by Grizzly Bear

Tidal Wave by Whipping Wind

New Years by Ohbijou

Demon Host by Timber Timbre

Dead Deer by Evening Hymns

When the Night Comes by Dan Auerbach

Eazy Speaks by Apostle of Hustle

Two Doves by The Dirty Projectors

Beijing by Patrick Watson

You Are The Blood by Sufjan Stevens

Lists! Best of 09 by Eddie Orso

2009-12-24T14:40:00.002-08:00

So this is a special Sunday edition of Birds, as I have a bunch of year end lists to put up before the year actually ends. Last week I had a top 10 album list from Illustrator Andrew Patterson. Today, we'll be handing the list writing over to musician Eddie Orso. You might remember Eddie from the band Revival Dear. Eddie is off on his own now, and about to release his debut album (I've heard a bit of it, and it should be fantastic!) Here's the list:

1. Joel Plaskett ( 3 )

2. Levon Helm ( Electric Dirt )

3. Elvis Costello ( Secret, Profane, Sugarcane )

4. Black Crowes ( Before The Frost )

5. Ben Kweller ( Changing Horses )

6. Wilco ( The Album )

7. Corin Raymond ( There Will Always Be A Small Time )

8. M Ward ( Hold Time )

9. Camera Obscura (My Mauldin Career)

10. Gomez ( A New Tide )

Nice. Thanks Eddie. Expect more lists this week, including a special Track of the Week tomorrow. It's a Podcast of my favorite tracks of the year! See ya then!

Track of the Week: Out by Whipping Wind

2009-12-22T05:16:00.000-08:00

Hello there! I spend my weekend in Lovely London Ontario. I was performing with a bunch of the greatest people in the world, the OH Records folk. We were all part of a christmas charity show. And what a show! Every performance was great! I got to hear the incredibly clever Henry Svelt, and Slim Pickins for the first time, plus tried tested and true performers Olenka and the Autumn Lovers, Sam Allen, and Aaron Lozynsky to name a just a few. The show was opened by The Whipping Wind. You may or may not remember, but the Whipping Wind released one of my favorite tracks of the year, Tidal Wave. Well, they (he) finally has another track (at this rate we can expect a full album by 2013!).

So here you go. The Whipping Wind, Out.

Lists! Best of 09 by Andrew Patterson

2009-12-15T20:17:00.001-08:00

I've decided to ask a few friends to make some lists for me! I also wanted to get input from various people in the music industry. Today, I've asked Illustrator Andrew Patterson to give me his top 10. Andrew has done some design work for Metric and the Ascot Royals... so what are illustrator/designers listening to these days? Andrew?

1. Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Phoenix have been a favourite band of mine since Alphabetical, and they came through in 2009 with an album that is easily my favourite of the year and the best of their career. Wonderfully catchy songwriting, infectious riffs and keys, soothing synths (and an incredible live show)…perfection.

2. P.O.S. - Never Better
P.O.S. is a young, politically charged emcee based out of Minneapolis. On Never Better, he effortlessly fuses his beautiful word-smithing and flow with conscious lyrics over some truly original beats and instrumentals. Not only is this some of the most aggressively good hip hop you’ll hear this year, but the album artwork gets my vote for best of 09.

3. Cursive - Mama, I'm Swollen
Omaha, Nebraska’s Cursive released their 7th album this year. While definitely more straight-ahead than their previous albums, I found Mama, I’m Swollen to be an immensely enjoyable record, complete with all the little tweaks and quirks that make Cursive…Cursive.

4. Emery - In Shallow Seas We Sail
One of the most pleasant surprises for me this year. I love Emery’s debut album for the raw energy and sheer aggression, which seemed to fade into dancey pop influenced numbers over the last few records. Right at the get go, the first track let me know the old Emery was back. Tons of nice vocal layering and ear-bleeding guitar.

5. Gliss - Devotion Implosion
As a fan of washed out, shoe-gazey, feedback rock, I must say that it’s been far too long since anything decent of the sort has been put out. Enter Gliss… the dirtiest rock I’ve heard in some time. Looks like the genre isn’t dead yet.

6. Phoenix - Kitsune Tabloid
This is without a doubt, my favourite compilation ever made. Assembled by the afore-mentioned Phoenix for Kitsune Maison, it’s an incredibly eclectic mix that includes everything from Elvis Costello and the Dirty Projectors to Kiss and D’Angelo. And it WORKS together. Crazy.

7. Mew - No More Stories Are Told Today, I'm Sorry, They Washed Away...
I was turned onto Mew fairly recently by a friend, just before this album came out, and boy am I grateful. No More Stories is one of the most cheerful, playful, and deceptively complex records I’ve had the pleasure of listening to this year. Definitely worth checking out, especially if you love weird foreign pop-rock.

8. Metric – Fantasies
Great album by a great band. Just enough darkness injected since Live it Out to keep things fresh, catchy melodies and lyrics that get stuck in your head in that good old-fashioned way.

9. Bibio – Ambivalence Avenue
Sneaky electronic whiz combines like 80 genres to create the best electronic album this year. Incredibly original, and makes you feel good. Sounds like a combination of Boards of Canada, Stars, Prefuse 73, Nickodemus, Elliott Lipp, and old funk. Brilliant.

10. Brand New – Daisy
This one snuck in here. With all the surprises I’ve come to expect from the band who re-invents themselves each album, Brand New’s Daisy is their heaviest album to date. When it’s not bashing your head in, it’s sending shivers down your spine with anticipation.

Runners Up: The Used, TBS, Dirty Projectors, Jay-Z, Say Anything

Track of the Week: Road to Joy by Bright Eyes

2009-12-14T04:45:00.000-08:00

I fell in love with the music of Bright Eyes a few years ago, when I first heard the album "I'm Wide Awake It's Morning". I was drawn to Conor Oberst's clever lyrics, unique voice and moving music. The song that always stood out for me was the closing track Road to Joy. Every time I hear the band explode at the end of the track, I get chills.

Check back tomorrow when I can hopefully start a series of end-of-year-lists!

This Week in Toronto Dec 10 - 16

2009-12-09T19:02:00.001-08:00

Hello. Click on the links people. You can hear music from all of these great acts I'm recommending. And, if you like, you can write a comment in the section marked "Comments" Here we go:

THURS DEC 10

Amelie playing at Bloor Cinema 4:15pm
One of the sweetest films ever made. Featuring the gorgeous Audrey Tautou. She's seriously one of the cutest actresses of all time. If this isn't quite your thing, come back at 9:30 for Blue Velvet. Nothing cute about that.

FRI DEC 11

The Constantines, Weakerthans and Attack in Black at Lee's Palace
This is a great triple bill! I can't say enough about the Constantines. They put on a FANTASTIC live show. Weakerthans I've seen a couple times, and they're pretty good. I've never seen Attack in Black... but it must be great.

SAT DEC 12

Patrick Watson at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
This is where I'll be on Saturday. Checking out the guy who should have taken the Polaris prize this year (Fucked Up is great, but Wooden Arms is an amazing album).

SUN DEC 13

Do Make Say Think and Ohad Benchetrit's Years at Enwave Theatre
This will be exciting. I love the Years album, it may turn up in my top 10 of the year... definitely in the top 20. And Do Make Say Think are always amazing. Really, they've been playing for decades, if you haven't seen them yet, what's wrong with you? Get out there!

MON DEC 14

Do Make Say Think, Happiness Project and Ohad Benchitrit's Years at Enwave Theatre
Oh wow. Monday night looks even more exciting! You can catch Charles Spearin's Happiness Project. I wonder how it plays live? If you haven't heard the album, the music is performed to coincide with dialogue he'd recorded of his neighbors. It definitely puts a smile on your face.

TUES DEC 15

White Christmas playing at Bloor Cinema
You know, I've never seen White Christmas... I don't know why that is. It's something I should have seen by now. Oh well, you get Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye! Get in the X-mas spirit!

Track of the Week: The Bass Song by Hayden

2009-12-06T18:25:00.000-08:00

I got a hold of Hayden's great 2001 album Skyscraper National Park today, and immediately dialed up track 8, The Bass Song. It's a simple story of a robbery gone wrong, from the point of view of the victim, in this case Hayden. It features one of his finest melodies and a chilling string outro.

OK, so it's December! So that means I, like every other blogger on the planet, will be dropping page upon page of Top 10 lists!! Keep checking in, I'll be covering music, movies... I'll have some guest writers... Oh, and I have an interview with Brooke Manning to come as well. See ya soon!

This Week in Toronto Dec 3 - 9

2009-12-02T17:23:00.000-08:00

THURS DEC 3

Matt Lennox book launch at Mitzi's Sister (7pm)
My good friend Matt Lennox has his first book of short stories out, and we'll be celebrating at Mitzi's Sister! He'll be reading as well, and the man knows how to tell a story.

FRI DEC 4

Evening Hymns CD Release at Tranzac
So, maybe you missed out on the free show Wed at Soundscapes. I did. But never you fret, you can catch this highly talked about act Friday night at Tranzac! Woo!

SAT DEC 5

Antlers and Anchors, Ronley Teper and Nick Zubeck at Tranzac
Stacked show!! Three Tranzac regulars together on one bill. I can't even pick a favorite, this whole show is going to be awesome!

SUN DEC 6

The Good Lovelies at Hugh's Room
The beautiful vocal stylings of the Good Lovelies at one of Toronto's finest venues, Hugh's Room. Yup, I just repeated the headline... but seriously, the gals are the tops.

MON DEC 7

Leon Redbone at Hugh's Room
Blues/jazz legend! One of the strangest performers in either genre, his life has been shrouded in mystery. But he has Toronto roots... Anyways, holy shit, check this guy out. He's also playing on Saturday!

TUES DEC 8

The Big Lebowski playing at Bloor Cinema 10pm
"Look, let me explain something to you. I'm not Mr. Lebowski. You're Mr. Lebowski. I'm the Dude. So that's what you call me. That or His Dudeness... Duder... or El Duderino, if, you know, you're not into the whole brevity thing."

WED DEC 9

Leon Redbone at Hugh's Room
Seriously, you may not get many more chances to see this guy. This week you have 3!!

Track of the Week: Cedars by Evening Hymns

2009-11-29T21:52:00.000-08:00

As some of you may know, I am currently working on my first full length album. Tracking is almost done (thankfully), and everything sounds amazing. But I had a moment of pause a few weeks ago after picking up Evening Hymns fantastic album "Spirit Guides". I listened to the album three times in a row and thought "Oh man... this is what my album should aspire to". I had a brief anxiety attack thinking that this is the type of thing I have to compete with! I've since calmed down. Now I can actually sit down and really appreciate the album.

So here you are folks, for your Monday, a track called Cedars by Evening Hymns. If you wanna check this fantastic band out, you can head over to Soundscapes Records on college st. this Wednesday at 7pm.

This Week in Toronto Nov 26- Dec 2

2009-11-25T19:31:00.000-08:00

Oh wow, we're almost in December! Happy end of November!!... I'm really not feeling it this week, so it's short and sweet.

THURS NOV 26

Stagehands CD Release show at Lee's Palace
I did an interview with a few of these fine folks a few months ago (read it here and here). They play an interesting blend of broadway and pop.... is it a play? is it a concert? It's both, dammit.

FRI NOV 27

Bruce Peninsula at The Music Gallery
Playing 2 nights. Saturday night you can see them with the hauntingly beautiful Ghost Bees opening.

WED DEC 2

Evening Hymns in store at Soundscapes
Great intimate way to see a great intimate act.

....and....

Bram Stoker Dracula playing at the Revue Cinema
Francis Ford Coppola's ode to the classic vampire story. An almost perfect film (Keanu Reeves? What the hell is he doing in this?!)

We Are Devo.

2009-11-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

Holy shit! I just saw Devo!! Yes it was one of the best shows of the year, and yes I want to start a Devo cover band. Who's with me?! Are we not men?! WE ARE DEVO!!!

My day started innocently enough. I went to work, I arrived late. I slaved away in the basement of a toy store, pricing Tiger Men, counting Thomas toys, etc. I received a call. Would I want to go to Devo tonight? Damn right... Although first I had to figure out who was on the phone. You see, his voice was a little muddled, so I couldn't hear him when he said his name. After a few qualifying questions, I realized it was my sisters friend Dan... or as I like to call him, my new favorite person in the world.

Free Devo tickets. I called up my friend Dana (the biggest Devo fan I know) and invited her along. She said "Damn right, I'll come!".

So then I was in the Phoenix. Waiting for something to start. What would this show be like? Will they be pathetic old men desperately clinging to their youth?

Well... sort of... but for some reason that didn't bother me. I was trying to figure that one out. Why, when I see The Who or Rolling Stones or someone like that, I cringe. I find it a little embarrassing. But Devo made me smile. They rock as hard as anybody. They're interpretation of the classic album "Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are Devo" really focused on the punk elements within. Songs like Uncontrollable Urge and Come Back Jonee rocked out in a way only hinted at on the great LP. For me the highlight was their performance of Jocko Homo. It was one of the best performances I've ever seen. The audience responded to each chant of Are We not men? with enthusiasm. I don't really know the theories behind De-Evolution, but after that performance, I'd gladly be apart of the cult.

Anyways, to anyone reading this with any power, what's the possibility of getting me some tickets for tonight's show? Tonight is a full performance of the fabulous "Freedom of Choice". I want more Devo.

Good night folks.

Track of the Week: Outro by Brooke Manning

2009-11-23T04:32:00.000-08:00

Last week I got the chance to conduct an interview with Brooke Manning. She'll be playing with her band (who sometimes perform under the name Loom) at Not My Dog tomorrow night (1510 Queen W). I will probably not get the interview up before the show, but I plan on having it up very soon, so keep checking back. In the mean time, why don't you give a listen to a track from her new EP "Bride + Loom"?

This track is called Outro. A beautiful haunting piece of music, featuring brooding synth, sax and Brooke's vocals, dwelling on themes of love and loss. The repeated line "I Never Told You That I Love You" particularly cuts deep. Oh, and her dog makes an appearance!

Chat with you folks later.

2009-11-19T18:23:00.000-08:00

OK, here is the rest of this This Week in Toronto...

FRI NOV 20

Anthony D'Amato at Free Times Cafe
I posted a song of his on Monday as my track of the week (check it out here). Anthony is visiting from the Jersey/New York area. Head over to the Free Times Cafe and show him some love!

SAT NOV 21

John Sebastian at Hugh's Room
The ultimate hippy. The guy wrote the theme song for the Care Bears for christ sake. He also played Woodstock! The last I heard of him he was playing with a jug band! Awesome.

MON NOV 23

Devo at Phoenix Concert Theatre
Playing "Are We Not Men?" in it's entirety!! Yes yes YES!!! Annnnnd the following night, they'll be playing "Freedom of Choice" in it's entirety!! Wow.

TUES NOV 24

Brooke Manning at Not My Dog
I just finished an interview with Brooke last night, hopefully I can get it on the interweb by Tuesday. She's a very gifted songwriter and vocalist, a must see performance!!

WED NOV 25

Malijube at Sonic Boom FREE!!
The Montreal proggy polaris short listers are playing a free show at Sonic Boom!! 7pm yo.

This Day in Toronto Nov 19

2009-11-19T04:49:00.000-08:00

Sorry, another week of sucking at this. OK, here's what you can do tonight... tomorrow we'll talk.

THURS NOV 19

Apostle of Hustle at Lee's Palace
Slowly becoming my favorite Arts and Crafts artists. There album from earlier this year, "Eats Darkness" is a testament to groove and rhythm... and that maybe the most pretentious thing I've ever written on this site. It's true though.

More tomorrow!!

This Day in Toronto: Brooke Manning at the Cameron House

2009-11-16T19:02:00.000-08:00

I didn't know about this one until yesterday. If you've no plans tonight (or plans you would like to get out of), I suggest you head over to the Cameron House. One of my favorite local artists, Brooke Manning will be performing in the back room, opening for Allie Hughes.

I've mentioned her many times, but I don't believe any of you have taken my advice and checked her out. For shame! A few months ago I saw her at Heartbeat 960 and had this to say about the performance:

The first time I saw her it was a solo show, but the addition of a band has taken it to another level. The performers (consisting of lap steel, flute and synth) create a beautiful sound scape, cushioning Brooke's unique voice and guitar playing. The city became a secondary instrument, a passing street car, buzzing air conditioner, wind rustled leaves, added new layers to Manning's performance.

And I don't think that really does it justice. Please, just go, show starts at 9, and I think she's on first, so don't be late!

Talk later.

Track of the Week: Hank Williams Tune by Anthony D'Amato

2009-11-15T16:31:00.000-08:00

I recieved an email this week about a show coming up on Friday. It's at the Free Times Cafe, and it features this guy, Anthony D'Amato.

Anthony graciously sent an MP3 along, and it's really good. A sweet song, perfect for a Monday morning, called Hank Williams Tune.

So if you're in the Spadina and College area on Friday night, I suggest sending some love his way.

Have a great first day back to work!

This Week in Toronto Nov 13 - 18

2009-11-13T05:35:00.000-08:00

Yikes, rushed again! Here we go:

FRI NOV 13

The Wooden Sky at Lee's Palace
AGH! Friday the 13th!! Go see the Wooden Sky! Also on the bill is Brian Borcherdt and Hooded Fang. That's a great bill. You can also hear the Wooden Sky today on Q with Jian Ghomeshi... and Morgan Freeman is on!

Oh I just noticed!! They're playing my favorite film at Cinematheque Ontario tonight!! F for Fake. Orson Welles' brilliant film essay on trickery! I love this movie. If you're a film buff head out to Cinematheque tonight!

SAT NOV 14

Dirty Projectors at Opera House
This will be amazing. I don't have tickets, so I will not be attending, but The Dirty Projectors are... well... they're something.... Something great, but they tend to defy description. If you can't make this head over to C'est What where Robert Hedge is having his 7' release. That's where I'll be.

WED NOV 18

Gordon Lightfoot at Massey Hall
Legendary performer at a legendary venue. He's there for 4 nights starting on Wed. If you loved me you'd get me a ticket, I can't afford it.

This day in Toronto: Thurs Nov 12

2009-11-12T06:08:00.000-08:00

OK, sorry for the boring week of November here at BtTtF. I promise I got some good things coming up though. I'm working on a couple new interviews, and will have lots of fun best of lists to end the year. Anyways, here is whats happening today, and tomorrow I'll put up the rest of the week.

THURS NOV 12

Zeus at the Rivoli
OK, Zeus is a really fun rock band. It's really just that simple. OH, and one of them has a great mustache... or at least he used to. Fun rock and roll, people! Remember that?

Track of the Week: Thirteen by Big Star

2009-11-09T05:04:00.000-08:00

Monday, Monday, Monday. So, what do you guys think about being in love? Remember being in love when you were young? It's a funny feeling then, and something that's hard to explain. Big Star wrote a song in 1972 that really gets it right. Ah young love.

This isn't the first version I heard. I am in possession of a great cover of this song by Alexandra Krakus (also known as Olenka from Olenka and the Autumn Lovers). Her version is even more breathtaking, and, here it is!

This Week in Toronto Nov 6- 11

2009-11-05T20:20:00.000-08:00

I didn't get this up yesterday, sorry. I just didn't have the time and I didn't really see anything that exciting for Thursday. So here is the rest of the week, extra fast.

FRI NOV 6

Aretha Franklin at Roy Thompson Hall
You know why this is good. You don't need me to tell you.

SAT NOV 7

Timber Timbre and Bruce Peninsula at North York Central Library
Awesome. Go see this.

SUN NOV 9

Shanghai Express playing at Cinematheque Ontario
I haven't seen this 1932 film before, but it's Josef Von Sternberg, his silent and talking films are some of the best (rent the Scarlett Empress immediately!!). Also, it has the always stunning Marlene Dietrich.

MON NOV 8

Man With The Movie Camera playing at Cinematheque Ontario
Amazing Avant-Garde cinema from 1929 Russia. Stunning camera work, and as always, Cinematheque will have a beautiful print.

TUES NOV 10

Girls at Elmocambo
I really don't know much about this band. I only know the song from this very not-safe-for-work-but-pretty-awesome music video. The song is great. I'm listening to more songs right now... also great.

WED NOV 11

Peter Bjorn and John at Phoenix Concert Theatre
I can't whistle. If I could I'd be whistlin' Young Folks all the time.

Men of Salt, Men of Earth

2009-11-04T05:50:00.000-08:00

Hello. How are things this fine Wed morn? Things are OK here, thanks for asking. Over the year and a half that I've had this blog, I've really focused it from a Toronto arts Blog to a Toronto Music Blog. But every so often I have to put up news about something I know little to nothing about, and that something is writing (as this first rambling sentence proves). But one of my collaborators, Matt Lennox, has published his first book of short stories. Matt has put up a couple articles here under the title Walk the Planck.

I've read a couple of these stories and they're great. Lennox sits comfortably in the company of Hemingway and Cormac McCarthy. His stories are honest, biographical, and retain some of his wicked sense of humor. If you're a fan of the short story genre, or just want to read an exciting and new voice in Toronto, you can pick up a copy of his book here at Oberon Press.

Also, there will be a book release, probably on December 3rd, more details will appear as we get closer. See ya tomorrow!

Track of the Week: Prelude to 110 or 220/Women of the World by Jim O'Rourke

2009-11-02T05:12:00.000-08:00

Ah, I almost forgot about this today!! OK, here is a quick one (not the song, it's 9 minutes long). One my influences right now is musician/producer Jim O'Rourke. He's released a number of albums, (he just released the 38 minute one song EP The Visitor, which is really great) and the songs I gravitate towards are songs like this.

I love me some open tunings these days. I also love simple melodies, and I love a song that builds. This one has all of that and more. The sentiment may be a little simplistic, but it's a simple idea that I could get behind.

Anywho, chat soon!

This Week in Toronto Oct 29 - Nov 4

2009-10-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

THURS OCT 29

Olenka and the Autumn Lovers and Wilderness of Manitoba at the Garrison
Most important show of the week!!! These are two bands on the brink here, people. Catch them together while they're hot. And also featuring Slow Down Molasses, a fantastic night of music.

FRI OCT 30

Elliot Brood at Opera House
I didn't find their newest album Polaris worthy, but I can't deny the good songwriting. Apparently a really great live performance as well.

SAT OCT 31

Fucked Up at Sneaky Dee's
Annual Halloween performance by Polaris winner Fucked Up! Should be an exciting (and scary) night.

MON NOV 2

Monsters of Folk at Massey Hall
I don't know if I'm recommending this or not. I love Conor Oberst and M. Ward. Jim James, he's alright. Mike Moglis? He's a good player. But Monsters of Folk? Could they have come up with a more pretentious name? Also the music I've heard has been slightly underwhelming. If this is your thing, then it's your thing!

WED NOV 4

Rural Alberta Advantage at Lee's Palace EDIT: MOVED TO NOV 20th
A band with buzz, I'm behind the ball on this one, I've yet to see them live. But I only hear good things. Check it.

Artist Profile: Wilderness of Manitoba (part 2)

2009-10-28T06:19:00.001-07:00

And here is part two of my recent interview with Wilderness of Manitoba. If you'd like to read part one please click this link. You can see WoM with Olenka and the Autumn Lovers, and Slow down Molasses this Thursday at the Garrison (1197 Dundas West)

What were some of the musical influences that you guys were vibing on when you made this?

Melissa- For me it goes back to Helplessly Hoping. CSNY for sure.

Scott- I think it's folk. I think Will and I set up to start up a folk act. Everyone hears the word folk and thinks of something completely different. I like Crosby Stills and Nash.

M- Joni, and Simon and Garfunkel, Peter Paul and Mary.

S- But not Dylan.

Stefan- Where as I love Dylan.

M- I include Dylan in folk.

S- so do I but I don't consider him first.

St- I had never listened to CSNY before this band. But I love Bob Dylan. So that version of Evening was influenced by Dylan's phrasing. and the next month was the three of them fighting me over the phrasing! It was a constant struggle of them ironing out the phrasing and making it more lovely.

Right, because you really don't do four part harmony with Dylan phrasing!

St- Ha, yeah it wouldn't work!

So there was a lot of back and forth with that?

St- There was a lot! Cause I was not... They would just naturally start doing it so I was like NO! it's not gonna happen! And I just kept singing it my way. and in the end I was like "alright fine."

S- Its actually a really wordy song, and it got to the point where we were all messing words up, because we were worried to much about the phrasing.

St- I remember writing down, the first time we recorded it around a mic, things like "Hold note", "Short", so everybody knows how to do it. We even, the video we have, we changed the phrasing for that loud verse, from the video we have in the Distillery.

M- And when we were recording the actual recording for the EP you guys forgot to tell me that you changed one thing.

S- It's nice when songs live, though. I don't like when they're stagnant, and the same way all the time. I don't think I've sang the same way twice.

St- but it's not carelessly done. All the harmony stuff... you have to analyze every phrase.

So you find you started out with these strict ideas about the harmonies and where they should be, and maybe you organically became comfortable with that, so that you can move around?

St- Yeah, exactly! you can move around. I know what works now. But it's all very thought out.

S- There are definite parameters.

So were the early rehearsals long rehearsals, did you have to really focus on the vocal harmonies?

St- No, it was still just like we sing, and every time we do it, it gets a little better. You notice more. It was never.... Other than that time with Evening, when we'd just written it.

S- Yeah, that was a bad example of how a song cam together.

How do they normally come together? Is there a process?

S- Yeah a songwriter brings in a song, has a melody in mind, figure out who is going to sing it, what voices are going to be on it, where they're going to be...

St- but generally, we just start singing and say, I don't think that worked, or that worked.

s- it's not like we're pigeon holed, but with Melissa and Stefan you have the highest voice and the lowest voice generally. Will is usually singing one of the main melodies in all of our songs. And i just jump in around it if there is a need for it. We have a few songs that are just 2 or 3 part harmonies.

Everybody knows when to back off?

S- Yeah, just because you can sing, doesn't mean you should.

St- That's true. especially when I'm playing cello, I can't sing at the same time.

So you guys have a pretty diplomatic approach to singing and songwriting.

M- yeah.

Everyone brings there own thing to the table, so not just one person writing.. at the beginning it was the two of you writing, but now does everybody bring songs in?

S- It's definitely become collaborative. I think it's still a song-writer project, there are 4 songwriters in the band. I think generally there is always one person with the idea that brings it in, that spearheads it, and follows that fish all the way through the river.

St- Other than the banjo ones. I just started learning the banjo in December. I was having so much fun I wrote like 5 songs. and most of them where just like banjo riffs, and everybody took a riff or two each, and wrote something to them

S- It was basically an auction [laughs] He sat on the couch and played them and Will would be like "I'll take that one!"

Are you guys writing a lot now? A lot of new stuff?

st- Oh yeah

s- and I think it's funny, we've been playing most of... more than half of our set since May has been off the record... not on the record. Yet to be finished. It's been so easy. But not in a cocky way, but literally that one day Stefan brought those 4 riffs in we got 3 songs out of it in a weekend. Just because 3 different people went off and heard 3 different things.

st- we almost have a full length written. some stuff took longer. We still have stuff on my computer, Scott's got stuff on his computer.

You recorded the EP in the basement of this place, is that the plan for the album, or are you going some where else for it?

S- I think we're going to try to do as much as we can here. But we all love exploring places. Going to a big room and getting some full band stuff would make this record a lot different than that

M- and the drums.

yeah, you'd want a more controlled space for that.

St- yeah, you don't want the drum reverb going through a little cramped basement.

Still to be decided

st- We've definietly had conversations "I think we should do it this way or that way" We listen to the Fleet Foxes and think, oh I love how huge this sounds! and then you listen to Bon Iver and think, oh this is so intimate and amazing! Both work, but it's hard.

S- I think that that's part of it. The song tells you what needs to be done. We have a couple songs that I think are out of this house. And a few will probably be written before then. Which will tell us where they want to be recorded.

What have you guys got for shows coming up? The show with Olenka and the Autumn Lovers

M- and Slow Down Molasses.

St- At the Garrison

Where is the Garrison, I haven't been yet.

St- Sean the Booker from Sneaky Dee's opened this venue at Dundas and Ossington. Wavelength is switching there.

S- I've seen the name everywhere. some wicked shows coming up there.

St- it's weird to be playing a show where I don't even know the capacity of.

S- I hear it's big.

St- I heard 400

M- I'm excited about Olenka.

St- are you playing with them?

I'll probably con my way into a song or two!

M- I remember seeing her when it was just Alex, in London at the Alex P. Keaton. So then when I saw the Autumn Lovers I thought Oh my god this is Amazing!! She was great on her own too.

Is there anymore Delaware House stuff coming up?

St- no

S- I think we're going to retire... the house. We've had some problems with neighborhood and bylaw officers. It got bigger than we expected. Caught us off guard.

St- we did our CD release and had 100 people.

S- Daredevil Christopher Wright listed in the NOW magazine

St- With A Google map link to the show!! with our address!

M- really?! I didn't know that!

St- that was when we were in the deepest stuff.

M- It was amazing.

was that one of your favorite show?

St. in terms of bands, that we were blown away by, for sure.

M- Englishmen from Louisville.

St- we had them sleeping upstairs, and Bad Flirts sleeping down here.

S- the Evening Hymns, Snowblink show at the beginning of the summer was amazing. Weather Station, man it was a great night.

St. I had a broken nose. I showed up having been in the hospital for hours.

S- happy as a clam. Not upset or frustrated at all.

Cool, well thanks guys for doing this.

Artist Profile: Wilderness of Manitoba (part 1)

2009-10-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

So, I've been living in this city for 10 years. I had job for a year where I delivered and assembled furniture all around the GTA, I pride myself on knowing my way around. But for some reason, when I was to meet the crew from Wilderness of Manitoba, I couldn't remember when Delaware St. was. I thought it was in Kensington Market... why? No idea. I walked, in the rain, through Kensington, finally made a couple phone calls and was informed that it's over by Ossington. I walked, there, and realized I didn't have the address. And no contact number. After a series of phone calls to friends, I finally found someone who could look up Delaware House (WoM's recording studio/venue/living quarters) online. I arrived half an hour late to find three of the members (Scott, Mellisa, and Stefan) surrounded by paper and CD's. I got my trusty H4 going and Mellisa took note of my Nancy Sinatra T-shirt

Mellisa doing her thing shot by Cody Walker

Mellisa- Oh my God that's an awesome T-shirt!

Oh, thanks!

m-That's totally from the Lee Hazlewood Period, I love that stuff that she did.

Yeah, me too!

m-And the videos for it are hilarious. You can see them on Youtube, like, Lee on a horse on a beach singing "Strawberries, cherries and an angles kisses..." It's the best! There was a really good tribute album done in 2003, or 2004.

A tribute to both of them?

m-It's a tribute to Lee Hazlewood. Lambchop is on it, and... that swedish guy... It also has in the liner notes, Lee listening to the artists do his songs, and his reactions.

Did he hate any of it?

m-Some if it, he was like "I don't know about this!". I think Colexico is on it to.

Scott- Those are brilliant, hey? (referring to my H4)

Oh yeah they're great

s- When Will and I... well when we were all out in September, Will and I where up at like 3 in the morning at this cottage. It was whisper quiet. We walked to the end of the dock, recorded with that thing. And after we were done we were like "fuck, we had mics. we could have XLR-ed in, and actually recorded. Cause we had mic sends..

Did you use any of that for the bird noises and stuff on the album?

Stefan- didn't Will take it out to High Park and record a bunch of the stuff? So we did use this, but not those sounds. The stuff we did at the cottage was after the album.

S- All of that stuff was captured, or Will took, from different places. He does sound design, for documentaries and films, so he has this whole catalogue of sounds that he just sort of keeps. I don't know if you heard the Provincial Parks album, but we have a subway on it, we've got an ice creme truck.

So, the band is relatively new, you started a year ago?

St- pretty much

S- yeah, we started writing songs in October. As we started going out and playing shows, we began picking people up. Our Myspace was registered in February. I don't know if that counts as day one of a child band. Seems like it got going at the end of Janurary. The show with Robert Hedge was the first at the Tranzac.

m-Then we had another show that was close to that one.

St- at Rancho.

m-and Stefan had just joined.

S- Stefan just hung out here!

St- We met at the Rock Lottery at the end of November. I just hung out here all Christmas because I was here on break. I was literally here everyday, we were recording and messing around.

m- And I was away and I felt so left out. And then when I came back they were like "We got all these songs!"

Aw! But it worked out in the end! So did it start with Will and you, Scott? from Provincial Parks?

S-Housemates as well. it's probably more significant. Will and I lived here with Pete from Provincial Parks. And our guitarist, he moved out, Stef moved in... Melissa never leaves!

M- ha

S- But we love you

M- I know you do. I like going home.

It's nice to get away for a while! When did you join?

M- I guess, December. They kind of made me jump in. I had a solo show, and had asked Scott and Will to play something with me so it wasn't just a girl with a guitar.

S- it was Helplessly Hoping.

M- Helplessly Hoping! And while we were rehearsing..

St- I feel like that song sort of started the band. I heard you guys play it and said "that was really good! Did you guys write that?" and you guys were like "Um... no".

Ha,some guy named Neil Young.

M- Then they came to my show... you guys had me sing on some of the Wilderness songs. You said, "you can be a guest on the Wilderness show!" So I plugged their band... and on stage they said "aren't you the newest member of the band Melissa?".

S- That was the first time the three of us played together.

Well, it's a great cover you guys do, when I saw you at Sneaky Dee's I thought it was a great cap on the night. I really enjoyed it.

M- and the Cello really adds to it.

You guys picked up, Sean as the drummer, he was the last guy

Scott shot by Cody Walker

S-I think, Will and I started writing the tunes, when we started getting asked to play live, we didn't know how we were going to recreate everything. As we started getting more shows we started picking people up, and the snow ball gets bigger.

You begin filling it out

S- yeah to figure out what comes next.

And you all have other projects as well. Provincial Parks, and Stefan you play with Brooke as well

ST-Yeah, I play with Brooke Manning, that's pretty recent. I used to play with Key Witness and Carnival Moon.

And Mellisa, you do the solo thing?

M- I still do the solo thing once in a while.

Is this sort of the main focus right now? Or are guys still trying to juggle?

St- this is the main focus

M- definitely the main focus. Which is weird, because it didn't start out that way, it was a side thing.

S- I find that bands go through phases. If you invest yourself in one thing all the time, it becomes... it seems like you love it so much you start to kill it. Breaks are great. We found ourselves on a break with Provincial Parks, and this started gaining steam. Key Witness was kind of petering off. and this sort of fit into our existing lives. Main focus, maybe, but only because...

It happened more naturally.

S- yeah.

Well it seems like you're picking up steam. It seems like you're getting a lot of attention. Do you guys notice it? that people are really digging on it?

St- It's been overwhelmingly positive. Which is strange.

M- but amazing

St- you email 3 bloggers and 3 of them write you back the next day saying "I love it and I"m putting it up on my blog" what?! How is this possible at all!

S- I think we've been really fortunate and lucky in a lot of things. We played Over the Top and Pitter Patter, the RAA show at the Horseshoe, Wavelength... for such a young band we've gotten a lot of things! And I think we're just trying to live up to that kind of caliber of band that opens for RAA! It's been a crash coarse in music, it's been a quick ride.

St- I also think it's been all the experience we've had.

S- yeah, we're a young band, but we're not young musicians.

St- Nobody wants to wait. We just know, I'm doing a project now, and I want to do it right. We made, before the RAA show, we got our CD mastered 4 days before that. So in those 4 days, we got the artwork together, made a screen print, put them together, he burned...

S-don't say that on tape!

ha, he professionally ordered!

St- he burned enough CD's just for that show. Like 70 or something. Wow, I'd never seen a band that full of people who have their shit together. I've been in so many bands that are like, "Yeah, we'll get it done" and nothing ever happens and it's like "Oh, we just played North By North East and we didn't have any CD's!" Which actually happened.

Oh man! That must of sucked!

St-Great opportunity and we have nothing to show for it! It's nice to be in a band where that doesn't happen.

That makes a difference! That's good that you found a group of people who are committed.

S- that's the thing, we're all moving at the same speed. we're all on the same page, generally more often or not. Decisions are easy.

I see, even tonight, you guys are here and you've got pages against the wall with like... weird things all over them..

M- it's all the things we have to do. Making CD's

St- Making CD's, festivals.

S- using the scraps to make lists.

It's pretty intense. And how are the CD's doing for sales? Even just getting them out there, are you finding, you're moving a lot right now?

S- yes. Which is a blessing and a curse. We're struggling to keep up.

M- Someone is like, I want 10 of your CD's! It's like... sure... um.. quickly go home and make 10 up.

S- But do we have enough tape!? Yeah, I'd love to do that, but we need to screen more! I don't think we anticipated this.

Sc- We sell a lot of merch at gigs. It's unbelievable.

I haven't actually seen the Case yet. I just have the digital copy, but I noticed today just how much I miss having the package. I just found out the last version of Evening is by Will's mother. It really adds a whole new level to the album, when I hear it over again, after knowing that. How'd you guys approach doing the cover of that song?

M- I think Will always wanted to do songs that his mother had written. But it came about when Stefan was here over the holidays. He rearranged it into a different key.

S- We were sponges then too. We were jamming together for the first time, the three of us. Will's mom gave him a bunch of recordings that she did in the late 60's for his 25th birthday. He always wanted to do these songs, but he didn't know how. and last October she passed away. So come December, we're all in a real creative head space, off work for Holidays. We were all in the basement experimenting. and that's when the song came out.

St- I took it home and recorded a version with just me and a banjo with reverb on it.

S- then he brought it back, and Elise from Whale Tooth was here, because [to Melissa] you where gone. and the first recordings we have of the song are with Elise, it took like an evening. Because Will's mom wrote the song, you can hear the passion, it makes the song still relevant. It's nice to be able to honor his mom in that way. She was a musician, she supported Will in doing it, supported us in doing it. She'd come over and make bread and muffins for us. It was nice.

Was there a bunch of music that she'd recorded? Have you guys heard the other songs?

S-She's our top friend on Myspace!

Will and Stefan shot by Cody Walker

Check in tomorrow for Part 2!

Track of the Week: Olenka and the Autumn Lovers AND Wilderness of Manitoba

2009-10-26T07:23:00.001-07:00

Hey folks, there is a really great show happening next Thursday. Really great. I mean, one of those shows that people will say they went to even though they didn't. It features two bands in particular that are on the verge of great things, and you can see them at the Garrison right before they break.

I've said so much about Olenka and the Autumn Lovers. Olenka is one of the most important songwriters on the scene today. She's brilliant, and prolific. Her band is top notch. Their self titled debut features many great songs, but here is one of my favorites When We Were Children.

Wilderness of Manitoba is a band I've recently had the pleasure to see. They write beautiful folk songs with lush harmonies. Their 8 song EP Hymns of Love and Spirit is one of the finest releases of the year. This is a track called Manitoba.

Also playing is a band called Slow Down Molasses, who I'm unfortunately unfamiliar with. But I've heard a lot of good things, included this write up by blogger Stuart Thompson.

Check in tomorrow when I'll be continuing my coverage of this show with part one of my interview with Wilderness of Manitoba.

This Week in Toronto Oct 22- 28

2009-10-22T06:50:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. A good week for music, and one great film playing! Click the links to learn more (hear music, read info etc), and feel free to place a comment in the comment section!

THURS OCT 22

Rah Rah at El Mocambo
I've mentioned this Saskatchewan band a few times. They've been playing in Toronto quite a bit (Saskatchewan must miss these guys). But it's our gain. Infectious Arcade Fire-esque rock and roll.

FRI OCT 23

Miles Davis Tribute at Trane Studio
featuring Brownman, Colin Kingsmore Kevin Breit and others. They're coving his great early 70's period starting from "Bitches Brew" (really?! Skipping "In a Silent Way"?!)... unfortunately they're also covering his tacky early to late 80's post retirement albums.... But if this means I'll hear something from 72's On the Corner, then I'm happy.

SAT OCT 24

Malajube at the Horseshoe
Polaris Short list band from Montreal. They have an indie prog vibe that I quite enjoy. Check it, I think it's only like $12.

SUN OCT 25

On The Waterfront playing at Cinematheque Ontario
This will be great! Cinematheque has a new restored print of this Elia Kazan classic. This is Marlon Brando at his best here, a must see for any cinephile.

TUES OCT 27

Arlo Guthrie at Oakville Center for the Performing Arts
Folk legend, performer at Woodstock, and son to the greatest folk legend Woody Guthrie. Unfortunately you have to go to Oakville to see him, so, I won't make the trip (I break into hives the moment I cross the Mississauga border).

WED OCT 28

Andrew Collins and The Sure Thing at Cameron House Front Room
The only person I know to study jazz at Humber college on Mandolin. The man is brilliant. You can usually see him Wednesday nights at Silver Dollar with Crazy Strings, but now he has a solo album out, and the music if awe-inspiring. The Sure Thing is an amazing bluegrass/country/ rock band, so I hope they're playing together.

and

William Delray at Cameron House Back Room
And if it's not your thing, head into the back room and catch the rock collective that is William Delray.

Stuart Thompson on William Shatner

2009-10-21T05:34:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks back Stuart Thompson asked me to contribute something to his blog Listenlistenlisten. A great little blog based out of my 2nd favorite place in Ontario, London. I wrote a small little piece about Holy Fucks song Lovely Allen, and promptly asked Stuart to return the favor. So here's an album review all the way from London!..... Ontario!! Oh, and I couldn't agree more, I love this album too.

William Shatner - Has Been

You have to experience William Shatner's spoken-word album Has Been to understand why Shatner is a bit of a hidden gem. Produced by Ben Folds in 2004, it's actually an overflowing bucket of emotion from Shatner's tormented life. In the wrong state of mind, his talky, rhyming ramblings are so bad they're good. In the right state of mind, they're sincere and painful soliloquies about love, suicide and a roller-coastering career.

Like when he describes finding his wife dead after she committed suicide on "What Have You Done," a moving spoken-word masterpiece featuring a muted organ that barely drones behind his narrative: "And there she was: smaller and more vulnerable than she was in real life... Her finger in her throat sounded a click... Is this what death looks like?"

But mostly it's tongue-in-cheek bitterness about the man Shatner appears to be. The shouty rock harangue "I Can't Get Behind That" is a laundry list of gripes with the modern world. And this song, "Real," is a countryish confession about how much Shatner's image is misunderstood by those who love and hate him.

In a way, it's addressing all the people who won't give the album a chance. They hear that Shatner's made a spoken-word album and they assume so much. But "Real" is just that — a sincere glimpse at the man behind the image. A man with an incredible legacy — first as an actor, then as a joke, then as a renewed comedian and now, if you'll allow it, as a new age poet.

Track of the Week: I Want Some More by Dan Auerbach

2009-10-19T04:49:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I put up a track from St. Vincent. I had said it was one of my favorite albums of the year. Dan Auerbach's debut "Keep It Hid", is another one of my favorites. Auerbach is mixing dirty blues, folk and psychedelic music (best guitar tone of the years!) in an exciting way, that still manages to feel fresh.

And I think I'll post another song, to give you a feel for the album. This is a folk tune, where Auerbach shows off his vocal chops, called "When The Night Comes", a beautiful soulful tune.

Tomorrow I'll be bringing in a guest writer, Stuart Thompson, who writes for a great blog out of London Ontario called Listen Listen Listen. Happy Monday.

This week in Toronto Oct 15-21

2009-10-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

Thisssssss Week in Toronto. Actually I couldn't find very much. Suggestions?

THURS OCT 15

Most Serene Republic at the MOD Club
Woo. They're fun... MOD club's a good venue to see a fun band in.... we all like fun!

FRI OCT 16

William Delray, EX-PO and Before the Flood at Rancho Relaxo
Three really great acts (and a closing act I've never heard of) on one bill! Get there at 9:30 cause that's when the show starts... seems obvious.

SAT OCT 17

Book of Gnomes at the Local
I love walking up the road to see good music. I'll probably be there, come say hi. Oh and the Gnomes are working on a new album... that's cool!

MON OCT 19

Millers Crossing and The Big Lebowski at Bloor Cinema 7 and 9:20pm
Coen brothers are brilliant. And Miller's Crossing and Big Lebowski are two of their best films. Good way to spend a Monday night.

Track of the Week: Circus by Tom Waits

2009-10-12T20:11:00.001-07:00

During this (Canadian) Thanksgiving weekend, me and my friend Jessica played scrabble and listened to Tom Waits. We listened to Alice about 3 times. So, after out vegetarian dinner, a bunch of us sat down for a viewing of The Thing. THAN following that, when my friends had all headed their separate ways, I found this link on another friends Facebook page.

Yup. A link to download some tracks from the upcoming live Tom Waits album, Glitter and Doom. Fuck.... Yeah.

Here is one of the tracks, but please, download 8 of them at the above link.

Holy shit, I got to see this guy live before it's too late. Please, anybody who can make that happen, please do. Talk soon!

This Week in Toronto Oct 8-14

2009-10-08T14:23:00.001-07:00

yeah, this is late today. So lets get it done fast shall we? Starting... right.... now.

THURS OCT 8

Octoberman at The Dakota Tavern
Caught Octoberman at Barzin's CD release, really great songs. They have a new album out as well, probably be playing loads of new great music! Actually I think this is the CD release... Woo. Oh, and check out their Myspace page, if only for the great Springsteen cover.

FRI OCT 9

Them Crooked Vultures at Sound Academy
Will this suck? Or will it be so cool our heads explode? A supergroup featuring Dave "I'm in EVERYTHING" Grohl, John Paul "Fuckin'" Jones, and Josh "I'm the guy from Queens of the Stone Age and I produce a lot of albums" Homme. Could rock really hard.

SAT OCT 10

Rock Plaza Central at Harbourfront Center
They are taking the stage Saturday, Sunday and Monday for something called HarbourKids: respect. Whatever that is. 4pm each day.

SUN OCT 11

Manhattan playing at Bloor Cinema 4pm
I watched the opening to this film just the other day. One of the greatest beginning to a film ever. And to see it on the big screen? I tear up, that's how perfect it is.

MON OCT 12

Ron Mann Retrospective at Cinematheque Ontario 7pm
I've never heard of Ron Mann before today. But after reading the excerpt on the Cinemtheque Ontario page, I want to see his films. One in particular focuses on Hippy culture in Yorkdale during the 60's.... It'll be amazing to see how much it's changed. Really cool.

WED OCT 14

Wilco at Massey Hall
I just quoted Wilco yesterday. Wilco is great, you don't need me to tell you.

Cheering up at the Press Club

2009-10-07T07:26:00.000-07:00

I've been in a bit of a funk for the last week or so. Personal reasons, don't pry... Anyways, I woke up yesterday morning feeling 100% better. What did it? I think it might have been a trip to the Press Club the night before.

I almost didn't leave my house. The other option was to wallow in self-pity, it was a viable option, but I choose to walk to the Press Club anyways. It's about a 40 minute walk from my place in Roncesvalles, but I like to walk, as long as I have my I-pod fully charged. So that night I was accompanied by Wilco, Radiohead, Olenka and the Autumn Lovers, Bob Dylan, Holy Fuck, Electric Light Orchestra, etc... good company.

I arrived to find the opener setting up. The opener who's name I can't remember. Which is really unfortunate because I thought she was great. She played beautiful folk songs, and Canadian covers (and a Wilco cover!), accompanied by back up vocalist, a guitarist (not really sure what he did through out the set... played the odd solo, but seemed a little lost) and Cello player who was probably my favorite part of band. He played clever bass lines and counter melodies, and supported the vocals with some great harmonies. Was anybody at the Press club to see Gord Zubrecki? Who was the opener?! [the opener's name was Tiffany Hanus, thanks to Marshall for the info! Ed.]

Anyways, it was good to finally talk to Gord. You see, I was was supposed to play a show with him a while back, but earlier that day I ate a bad veggie burger at Harvey's and threw up... threw up green booster juice to be exact.... just off of Bathurst, north of the 401. Gord understood.

I also got chatting with drummer Marshall Bureau, who did such a great job a week earlier on my recordings. (yes, I'm recording, and yes it's going to be the greatest album of 2010).

It was great to run into some old friends as well. Dana Snell (former drummer of the Bicycles, current drummer for Gentleman Reg) and Andy Lloyd (associate of Caribou and The Born Ruffians) were there, and we chatted about the Electric Light Orchestra, The Garrison, the future of Sneaky Dee's (we figure, after "Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World" comes out, Sneaky Dee's will become a hub for pop punk bands and poser kids).

I wanted to stick around for Gord's set, but they weren't starting till about midnight, I had a 40 minute walk ahead of me, and had to be up for work in the morning. I commenced my journey, the first song on my I-pod was Mr. Blue Sky by ELO. You can't be upset when that song is playing. It's impossible.

I think all of this is a round about way of saying that, for me, music... well maybe Jeff Tweedy said it best when he said "Music is my savior, and I was maimed by rock and roll".

As you were.

Track of the Week: Marrow by St. Vincent

2009-10-04T21:32:00.000-07:00

Wow, St. Vincent is awesome. Kinda my favorite thing right now. It will probably be in my favorite albums of the year (you know there's a list coming). Front women Annie Clark is my new crush, super talented. Anyways, this song is called Marrow, enjoy!

This Week in Toronto Oct 1-7

2009-10-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

Short week. Don't have much to say about Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday (I mean, there's a Mars Volta show on Sunday... but.... I don't feel like finding pictures, links, then I gotta write something clever, or insightful, and I just don't have that kind of drive for the Mars Volta, ya dig?)

THURS OCT 1

Bruce Peninsula, Sunparlour Players, Rah Rah at the Horseshoe
This will be a great show except for one thing... it's at the Horseshoe. The first time I saw Bruce Peninsula was at the Horseshoe, and the sound was so bad that I couldn't get into it. I've since seen the band a number of times, and they're amazing, but damn, hopefully the Horseshoe does something about the sound... And Rah Rah again!! Love Rah Rah!

FRI OCT 2

David Cross at Queen Elizabeth Theatre
Probably sold out, but if you can get in, or already have tickets, it'll be hilarious. If you can't get in, maybe try...

Os Mutantes at Opera House
Legends of the Tropicalia movement from Brazil. An exciting blend of 60's psych rock and Brazilian rhythms. Very cool.

SAT OCT 3

Nick Zubeck at The Local
Yeah, it's the night of Nuit Blanche, but that's running until like 6am. You can stop by the Local first, check out a few choice cuts from the emensly talented Nick Zubeck (and his fantastic band), then go see your deviant art. Sound good?

photo by Sara Collaton

WED OCT 7

A Clockwork Orange playing at Bloor Cinema 9pm
I knew this film was banned in the UK up until after Kubrick died, but what I didn't know was that it was pulled by Kubrick himself. Apparently he had received death threats on his family. Thanks Wikipedia!

Track of the Week: Stayed Too Long in This Place by Barzin

2009-09-27T22:00:00.000-07:00

I just got the chance to work with the rhythm section of Darren Wall and Marshall Bureau. Two fantastic musicians, who I've seen play with a number of great performers. One such performer is Barzin. You may recognize that name from this blog, I did an interview with him some months ago (one of my favorites, which you can read here and here). His newest album was released earlier in the year, and it's still one of my favorites. Beautiful songs about love and loss. Barzin is a great songwriter, and should be more well known, it's a crime that he isn't.

Here is one track that really showcases the the subtle precision of his band (also featuring guitarist Nick Zubeck). Have a good week!

A Horse and His Boy

2009-09-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

Holy shit, you missed out. If you weren't at Sneaky Dee's last night (and you weren't, I was there, I would have recognized you) you seriously missed out. A Horse and His Boy couldn't play their show last month thanks to some ass-hats stealing their gear. But they've since dusted themselves off, played a few shows in their hometown of London (including opening spot at LOLA), and finally made it to the big city. And what a show.

It's high energy noise, meets a solid danceable rhythm section (the bass lines are at times the most melodic part of the song), infused with Edge-esque guitar riffs. Singer Aaron Simmons has the strangest vocal delivery, a warbled yelp which by itself might become grating, but it's complemented by Nathan Noble's more melodic timbre, responding to Aaron's frantic calls.

The sound at Sneaky Dee's was a little off, unfortunately. AHAHB would be a hard band to do sound for, so it must have been a tough go. The bass was prominent during the first track, but was missing throughout the rest of the set. At times, when things really got intense, you'd just get a wash of sound, unable to distinct any instrument. But those complaints were minor.

So, can we get A Horse and His Boy back to Toronto? Can we give them an audience they deserve?

Here is a track from their debut EP (although they don't call it an EP... I'm gonna call it an EP anyways). It's called Home, and it rocks.

On a side note, I was going to bring a photographer to take some picture but that fell through. Thanks to Sara Froese and Andrew Colvin, who's photo's I pilfered for this post.