Friday, November 6, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Jon Janes of The Mountains and The Trees + free EP
For years, whenever I thought of Newfoundland I only thought of Jockey Club beer, Iceberg tracking web sites and Ches' Fish & Chips, but lately more and more talented acts have been coming across our desk. Most people know Polaris Short-listers Hey Rosetta!, but the amount of good music coming from the Rock is insane. For me though, Jon Janes - aka The Mountain & The Trees - is the act I'm keeping my eye on. You know what? I'm not the only one.
Jon is coming to Halifax on Nov. 15th to open for the legendary Billy f&cking Bragg! It's hard to believe he's making waves all over North America on the strength of 4-songs, well, that is until you actually listen to his songs. His arrangements rise and fall like a slow beating heart and every time I throw on Hop, Skip & A Jump, I play it three or four times in a row.
Jon was feeling frisky, so he decided to take on the herohill Random Question Generator, discussing topics like tight pants, favorite instruments and his love for BA Johnston.
He also wanted to thank you the reader by offering up a copy of Hop, Skip & A Jump. I can't recommend it enough - ie. it's high on my Best-of '09 EP list - and it's well worth you leaving a comment with your details or dropping us an email (herohill AT gmail DOT COM).
So, enjoy the track and Jon's responses.
Name: Jon Janes
Band: The Mountains & The Trees
Web: http://www.rockandroots.com
1. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
Emphatically no.
2. If you could only keep one instrument from your collection, what would it be?
Definately my guitar. I've been attached to it ever since I found it. Because of the year, it'd also be the hardest to replace. I'd have to put my suitcase as the second instrument for all the same reasons.
3. What was the first moment you considered yourself a 'professional musician'?
During my first tour, at a show in Halifax, at Gus' Pub, with Jon McKiel. After the show, a couple approached me outside and asked if I'd be in Newfoundland the next week, which I was. They took my contact info and got in touch with me when I got back. They were from the Netherlands and bought a handfull of CDs to bring back to their friends. They even got me to autograph them. It felt really weird, but it always stood out as one of those moments.
4. Mr. Dressup or The Friendly Giant? (or neither because you're too young and have no idea who they are)
Mr. Dressup. I was at the CBC museum for the first time in Septemeber and saw the tickle trunk - mind-blowing.
5. Name a Canadian band (past or present) that should be bigger outside this country.
BA Johnston. I'd LOVE to see how his show would go over in other countries!
MP3:: The Mountain & The Trees - Up & Down
MYSPACE:: http://www.myspace.com/themountainsandthetrees
Labels: Canada, contests, Five Funky Stories, Music, Music Canada Newfoundland, The Mountain and The Trees
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Oh No Forest Fires
WHAT!?! The random question machine is back? Oh yes friend, HPX is over, but the random question machine is here to stay. It`s just too fun a feature to put away, and I could say the same thing about this episode with frenetic Torontonians Oh No Forest Fires.
As you might be aware, we did an assload of these 5FS posts in an attempt to preview as many of the bands & shows for last month's HPX, but unfortunately we got this one from ONFF just a little too late, and so we couldn't get it posted in time. But after meeting super-nice Rajiv during the festival, and reading the care and enthusiasm he put into his answers (I'm fairly certain he wrote more than any of the previous 5FS participants), there was no chance I wasn't going to post this. Plus, in preping this post, I found out that ONFF have their acoustic TARA session available for d\l on their myspace (here, specifically), so that's a bonus.
Oh, and ONFF are also pretty great. I can't think of a more exuberant band that I've seen recently, even their acoustic set feels incredibly high-energy. So check out a the Q&A, and then go listen to some Oh No Forest Fires.
Name: Rajiv Thavanathan
Band: Oh No Forest Fires
Web: www.myspace.com/ohnoforestfires
1. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
Our Herohill tribute song would be called "How the Fine Arts of Procrastination and Bafflegab Hobble the People Who Will be Trying to Save You When Things Get Really Bad"
2. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
Hmmm, we have had some great out-of-town experiences. I'd say probably Oscar's in Barrie, ON. One time we were in Sudbury and we got locked in in the parking lot after an all-ages show at the Adanac Ski Hill. That was pretty hilarious. Oh, wait you said "favourite". Hmm, maybe Cafe Dekcuf in Ottawa? Our good friend Matt from iheartmusic has had us up there a bunch of times, and those shows are always super fun!
3. What's your favorite thing to do to pass time on the road?
We have a few.
a) "The Movie Game" - the way we play it, you name an actor, then one by one everyone names a movie that he/she has been in. Some particularly awesome actors to use are Tom Hanks, Jim Carrey, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Cruise. Longer careers = awesome. Brock is probably the best at this game, but Matt's can give him a really good run for his money. I am terrible at it.
b) "Sweatbox" - This is only really fun to play in the summer. You roll up all the windows, and turn the heat on bust. It gets REALLY hot, in fact once we actually kind of broke the heater in my car. Anyways. First person to roll down the window or take off a piece of clothing loses. The best part is, we're all so stubborn that people will try to rig up fancy loopholes instead of just losing- for example, last time Brock rigged up his hoodie so the arms hung down to the floor and he was breathing through that so he could get some "cool air". Pretty awesome.
c) "Hey Brock, would you ever..." - Pretty self-explanatory. Where the ellipsis is, you insert a really really lewd thing. Actually, sometimes it's not even that lewd, it's more about just seeing his reaction to it.
d) "Cartoon TV Theme Songs" - Matt has a folder in his ipod of just cartoon theme songs (sometimes we just do TV theme songs altogether, but the cartoon ones are the BEST) and he'll randomly put them on and whoever guesses the song first wins. This is an awesome game. I particularly love the string intro to Pinky and the Brain, and the bass octaves at the start of Ducktales.
4. Your preferred Neil: Diamond or Young?
Neil Young. Like, hands down. I do love Neil Diamond though. BUT IT'S NEIL YOUNG. I've waited for youuuu winterlong, you seem to be where I belooong, it's all illuuusion anywayyyy. <- That's my favourite Neil Young song.
5. You can ask any musician dead or alive one question, who do you ask?
Hmmmm there's a bunch of musicians that I always wished I could hang out with for a day because they seem so cool/crazy. Among them are Dave Grohl, Chad Van Gaalen, and Paul Westerberg. I think I would just like to meet John Darnielle from The Mountain Goats... I would walk up to him, stammer for a bit, then hug him warmly, hold him tight and ask "are you doing okay?". That's what I would ask.
As you might be aware, we did an assload of these 5FS posts in an attempt to preview as many of the bands & shows for last month's HPX, but unfortunately we got this one from ONFF just a little too late, and so we couldn't get it posted in time. But after meeting super-nice Rajiv during the festival, and reading the care and enthusiasm he put into his answers (I'm fairly certain he wrote more than any of the previous 5FS participants), there was no chance I wasn't going to post this. Plus, in preping this post, I found out that ONFF have their acoustic TARA session available for d\l on their myspace (here, specifically), so that's a bonus.
Oh, and ONFF are also pretty great. I can't think of a more exuberant band that I've seen recently, even their acoustic set feels incredibly high-energy. So check out a the Q&A, and then go listen to some Oh No Forest Fires.
Name: Rajiv Thavanathan
Band: Oh No Forest Fires
Web: www.myspace.com/ohnoforestfires
1. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
Our Herohill tribute song would be called "How the Fine Arts of Procrastination and Bafflegab Hobble the People Who Will be Trying to Save You When Things Get Really Bad"
2. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
Hmmm, we have had some great out-of-town experiences. I'd say probably Oscar's in Barrie, ON. One time we were in Sudbury and we got locked in in the parking lot after an all-ages show at the Adanac Ski Hill. That was pretty hilarious. Oh, wait you said "favourite". Hmm, maybe Cafe Dekcuf in Ottawa? Our good friend Matt from iheartmusic has had us up there a bunch of times, and those shows are always super fun!
3. What's your favorite thing to do to pass time on the road?
We have a few.
a) "The Movie Game" - the way we play it, you name an actor, then one by one everyone names a movie that he/she has been in. Some particularly awesome actors to use are Tom Hanks, Jim Carrey, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Cruise. Longer careers = awesome. Brock is probably the best at this game, but Matt's can give him a really good run for his money. I am terrible at it.
b) "Sweatbox" - This is only really fun to play in the summer. You roll up all the windows, and turn the heat on bust. It gets REALLY hot, in fact once we actually kind of broke the heater in my car. Anyways. First person to roll down the window or take off a piece of clothing loses. The best part is, we're all so stubborn that people will try to rig up fancy loopholes instead of just losing- for example, last time Brock rigged up his hoodie so the arms hung down to the floor and he was breathing through that so he could get some "cool air". Pretty awesome.
c) "Hey Brock, would you ever..." - Pretty self-explanatory. Where the ellipsis is, you insert a really really lewd thing. Actually, sometimes it's not even that lewd, it's more about just seeing his reaction to it.
d) "Cartoon TV Theme Songs" - Matt has a folder in his ipod of just cartoon theme songs (sometimes we just do TV theme songs altogether, but the cartoon ones are the BEST) and he'll randomly put them on and whoever guesses the song first wins. This is an awesome game. I particularly love the string intro to Pinky and the Brain, and the bass octaves at the start of Ducktales.
4. Your preferred Neil: Diamond or Young?
Neil Young. Like, hands down. I do love Neil Diamond though. BUT IT'S NEIL YOUNG. I've waited for youuuu winterlong, you seem to be where I belooong, it's all illuuusion anywayyyy. <- That's my favourite Neil Young song.
5. You can ask any musician dead or alive one question, who do you ask?
Hmmmm there's a bunch of musicians that I always wished I could hang out with for a day because they seem so cool/crazy. Among them are Dave Grohl, Chad Van Gaalen, and Paul Westerberg. I think I would just like to meet John Darnielle from The Mountain Goats... I would walk up to him, stammer for a bit, then hug him warmly, hold him tight and ask "are you doing okay?". That's what I would ask.
MP3:: Oh No Forest Fires - It's Not Fun And Games Unless Someone Loses An Eye
MP3:: Oh No Forest Fires - 01 - Who Will Cut Our Hair When Our Hairdresser Is Gone (acoustic)
MP3:: Oh No Forest Fires - New Cove Road Back Home (acoustic)
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/ohnoforestfires
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Oh No Forest Fires, Toronto
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Diemonds
This here music blogging thing can be quite the education, because even though most bloggers would be loathe to admit it, you learn at least a little something about music every day. Take sleaze for example. No, I don't mean what you'd find on the dancefloor at the New Palace at 1:45AM (HI-O!), but rather Sleaze Rock, which I have learned is the new slang for what was more widely known as "glam metal". Who knew? Well I'm sure many of you did, either way, one of Toronto's premier purveyors of Sleaze Rock is playing this year's HPX: Diemonds.
So folks, if you're hitting HPX and looking to party with a band that has ear-splitting guitars in abundance, and a badass female vocalist to boot, then you best be at the Toothy Moose next Saturday night to see Diemonds headline a bill that also features Bike Rodeo, Thrushes, The Pack A.D. and Carpenter. So yeah, that's going to be a loud evening. Priya Panda is that aforementioned badass female lead vocalist, and besides being able to belt out the jams, she has other skills that the youtube commentors for their Highway video articulated nicely ("good band? - good luck guys - sweet lookin' lady on vocals will help big time!"). Anyway, all male jerkish-ness aside, Priya was kind enough to answer our questions, so let's get to it:
Name: Priya Panda
Band: Diemonds
Web: www.myspace.com/diemonds
1. Name a Canadian band (past or present) that should be bigger outside this country.
April Wine!!!!! Hands down. They have a KILLER discography and they really wrote a song for everyone. And for a more current band, I'm gonna say Kill Cheerleader from Toronto. I REALLY hope they decide to play live again someday!
2. From your perspective, is the music business in better or worse shape when compared to 10 years ago?
Ii didn't affect me ten years ago, so it might just seem worse now...I don't really think about. I just wanna play!
3. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
The Apocalypse, Fresh Starts, and Unhappy Endings
4. Dream show...who plays with you/for you?
A badass free festival that went on for days with Aerosmith, Thin Lizzy, ZZ Top, Wings, KISS, Guns N' Roses, Plasmatics, and Crucial Taunt all with their classic lineups oh, and Diemonds and a million people everywhere. And no bag checks! They ruin all the best parties, if you know what I mean.
5. What excites you about most about making music?
Just that whole feeling of being mentally and physically in the gray area between dream and reality, I guess.
VIDEO:: Diemonds - Highway
So folks, if you're hitting HPX and looking to party with a band that has ear-splitting guitars in abundance, and a badass female vocalist to boot, then you best be at the Toothy Moose next Saturday night to see Diemonds headline a bill that also features Bike Rodeo, Thrushes, The Pack A.D. and Carpenter. So yeah, that's going to be a loud evening. Priya Panda is that aforementioned badass female lead vocalist, and besides being able to belt out the jams, she has other skills that the youtube commentors for their Highway video articulated nicely ("good band? - good luck guys - sweet lookin' lady on vocals will help big time!"). Anyway, all male jerkish-ness aside, Priya was kind enough to answer our questions, so let's get to it:
Name: Priya Panda
Band: Diemonds
Web: www.myspace.com/diemonds
1. Name a Canadian band (past or present) that should be bigger outside this country.
April Wine!!!!! Hands down. They have a KILLER discography and they really wrote a song for everyone. And for a more current band, I'm gonna say Kill Cheerleader from Toronto. I REALLY hope they decide to play live again someday!
2. From your perspective, is the music business in better or worse shape when compared to 10 years ago?
Ii didn't affect me ten years ago, so it might just seem worse now...I don't really think about. I just wanna play!
3. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
The Apocalypse, Fresh Starts, and Unhappy Endings
4. Dream show...who plays with you/for you?
A badass free festival that went on for days with Aerosmith, Thin Lizzy, ZZ Top, Wings, KISS, Guns N' Roses, Plasmatics, and Crucial Taunt all with their classic lineups oh, and Diemonds and a million people everywhere. And no bag checks! They ruin all the best parties, if you know what I mean.
5. What excites you about most about making music?
Just that whole feeling of being mentally and physically in the gray area between dream and reality, I guess.
MP3:: Diemonds - Highway
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/diemonds
VIDEO:: Diemonds - Highway
Labels: Diemonds, Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Toronto
Friday, October 16, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Fox Jaws
It seems our random question machine might have met its match in eclectic Toronto-area up & comers Fox Jaws. These fine folks had not one, not two, but three of their band members match wits with our question machine, which is indeed a new record.
Fox Jaws is a five person indie rock outfit, originally from Barrie, Ontario (I think they've now relocated?), that pairs large soundscapes with catchy songwriting and the gritty voices of Carleigh Aikin and Daniel Allen. Their debut full-length, Goodbye Doris was very enjoyable, and although I've yet to hear it all, their recently released follow-up At Odds (Or, Exercises in Separation While United in the Fall) has been equally well-received. If you're hitting HPX, you can sample Fox Jaws sound for yourself when they headline the attractive-looking lineup playing the Nevado records showcase at Coconut Grove where they'll be joined by Hot Panda, Yukon Blonde, and The Paint Movement. But now, on to a plethora of questions and answers!
Name: Evan
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
Left and Leaving (Weakerthans)
2. Would you trade places with Bono right now if you could?
No
3. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
The Seahorse (Halifax)
4. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
Chimpanzees in suits on roller-skates smoking cigars; Alienation in the modern world; and, Back-bacon.
5. Name a band that you wish was still putting out records
The Rheostatics
Name: Daniel Brandon Allen
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. Why do people still say 'We're doing an East Coast tour!' when they're only going as far as Quebec?
Probably because they failed Geography and have never looked at a map of Canada before.
2. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
6 days
3. If you worked as the maitre d' at a fancy restaurant, and Phil Collins came in wearing only a t-shirt, would you let him sit down?
Depends as to whether he was meeting Peter Gabriel there to discuss a Genesis reunion. I still haven't forgiven him for the Disney stint.
4. Your preference: Playing a huge outdoor festival or small club in your hometown?
Small club in my hometown hands down.
5. Would you trade places with Bono right now if you could?
I'de let my wallet trade places with his but not myself.
Name: Carleigh Aikins
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
'We don't need another hero'...oh no! That one is taken!
2. What is the worst experience you've had on the road since you started touring?
When I lit the back of the truck on fire with a discarded cigarette, and all the gear went up in flames. Or when I had to endure the gastro flatulence of my bandmates through the entire east coast- windows closed.
3. Have you ever played a keytar?
In my dreams...only in dreams.
4. If you had to cover one Country song, what would it be?
Love Hurts- Graham Parsons styles.
5. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
The state of Affairs, the coming of a paradigm shift, and of course LOVE
Fox Jaws is a five person indie rock outfit, originally from Barrie, Ontario (I think they've now relocated?), that pairs large soundscapes with catchy songwriting and the gritty voices of Carleigh Aikin and Daniel Allen. Their debut full-length, Goodbye Doris was very enjoyable, and although I've yet to hear it all, their recently released follow-up At Odds (Or, Exercises in Separation While United in the Fall) has been equally well-received. If you're hitting HPX, you can sample Fox Jaws sound for yourself when they headline the attractive-looking lineup playing the Nevado records showcase at Coconut Grove where they'll be joined by Hot Panda, Yukon Blonde, and The Paint Movement. But now, on to a plethora of questions and answers!
Name: Evan
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
Left and Leaving (Weakerthans)
2. Would you trade places with Bono right now if you could?
No
3. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
The Seahorse (Halifax)
4. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
Chimpanzees in suits on roller-skates smoking cigars; Alienation in the modern world; and, Back-bacon.
5. Name a band that you wish was still putting out records
The Rheostatics
Name: Daniel Brandon Allen
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. Why do people still say 'We're doing an East Coast tour!' when they're only going as far as Quebec?
Probably because they failed Geography and have never looked at a map of Canada before.
2. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
6 days
3. If you worked as the maitre d' at a fancy restaurant, and Phil Collins came in wearing only a t-shirt, would you let him sit down?
Depends as to whether he was meeting Peter Gabriel there to discuss a Genesis reunion. I still haven't forgiven him for the Disney stint.
4. Your preference: Playing a huge outdoor festival or small club in your hometown?
Small club in my hometown hands down.
5. Would you trade places with Bono right now if you could?
I'de let my wallet trade places with his but not myself.
Name: Carleigh Aikins
Band: Fox Jaws
Web: www.foxjaws.com
1. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
'We don't need another hero'...oh no! That one is taken!
2. What is the worst experience you've had on the road since you started touring?
When I lit the back of the truck on fire with a discarded cigarette, and all the gear went up in flames. Or when I had to endure the gastro flatulence of my bandmates through the entire east coast- windows closed.
3. Have you ever played a keytar?
In my dreams...only in dreams.
4. If you had to cover one Country song, what would it be?
Love Hurts- Graham Parsons styles.
5. What are your top 3 favorite songwriting topics?
The state of Affairs, the coming of a paradigm shift, and of course LOVE
MP3:: Fox Jaws - Karmonica
MP3:: Fox Jaws - Quarantine Girl
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/foxjaws
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX, Toronto
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Jenocide
Oh you thought that with HPX set to start next week that perhaps our random question machine might have run out of steam? Sorry friend, but it's just getting warmed up, and so our random question-powered preview for this years Halifax Pop Explosion cranks things up a notch with Jenocide.
Jenocide is the alter-ego of Windom Earle synth-shredder Jen Clarke and she's ready to start a grrl-powered riot on the dance floor at the Paragon next Thursday when she kicks off a sure to be sweaty & crazy night that also features Oldfolks Home, Think About Life, and Cadence Weapon. On top of that, Jenocide just released her first full-length album, Machines To Make Us Wet (oh my Jenocide, you know we love us some naughty double-entendre here at the hill), which is 10 songs of some pretty aggro female electro. So if you can't make her HPX show, at the very least check out the new album.
Name: Jenocide
Band:
Web: www.ilovejenocide.com
1. Would you prefer the chance to headline at HFX Pop Explosion or at a festival in another major Canadian city?
toughie! i would like to tour. if i say somewhere else do i get kicked out? wait i got this one:*HOMETOWN PRIDE*! fuck you.
2. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
under the sea (there will be no accusations, just friendly crustaceans).
3. Would you move to the US if it you knew it would further your career?
tell me, what the hell am i doing drinking in LA? at 26? with lady gaga?
4. Can you please tell us what the hell happened to R. Kelly?
why you wanna play me? he's a genius. wait...put on a white suit and then ask me that question again.
5. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
Underneath we're all lovable. hello hero, hero hello. hello hero. hello hello!
Jenocide is the alter-ego of Windom Earle synth-shredder Jen Clarke and she's ready to start a grrl-powered riot on the dance floor at the Paragon next Thursday when she kicks off a sure to be sweaty & crazy night that also features Oldfolks Home, Think About Life, and Cadence Weapon. On top of that, Jenocide just released her first full-length album, Machines To Make Us Wet (oh my Jenocide, you know we love us some naughty double-entendre here at the hill), which is 10 songs of some pretty aggro female electro. So if you can't make her HPX show, at the very least check out the new album.
Name: Jenocide
Band:
Web: www.ilovejenocide.com
1. Would you prefer the chance to headline at HFX Pop Explosion or at a festival in another major Canadian city?
toughie! i would like to tour. if i say somewhere else do i get kicked out? wait i got this one:*HOMETOWN PRIDE*! fuck you.
2. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
under the sea (there will be no accusations, just friendly crustaceans).
3. Would you move to the US if it you knew it would further your career?
tell me, what the hell am i doing drinking in LA? at 26? with lady gaga?
4. Can you please tell us what the hell happened to R. Kelly?
why you wanna play me? he's a genius. wait...put on a white suit and then ask me that question again.
5. If we commissioned you to write a song about herohill, what would the title be?
Underneath we're all lovable. hello hero, hero hello. hello hero. hello hello!
MP3:: Jenocide - Fashion Icon
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/jenocidemusic
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Jenocide
Monday, October 12, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Dan Mangan
photo courtesy of www.jonathantaggart.comThe random question generator isn't afraid to ask the tough questions. Just ask Dan Mangan, as he was forced to deal with the heat of who he might boo on stage and what the best Canadian record of all time is. More importantly, it gives us another chance to talk about the young Vancouver singer. You might think his amazing EP, even better follow up, or the fact he won $25K for being the Verge Artist of the Year would be good enough reason, but you'd be wrong. It's because if pressed to cover one hip-hop track, Dan would choose one of the best hip-hop songs ever.
Dan will be here in Halifax playing two shows during Pop Explosion, including a headline slot on Friday night @ The Company House. Even if we weren't covering the HPX, I'd be waiting anxiously for this show, as Dan is a terrific performer and I love to sing about Robots.
Name: Dan Mangan
Band: currently addicted to the internet
Web: www.danmanganmusic.com
1. Can you think of any band or singer you would boo if they came on-stage unexpectedly?
Donald Rumsfeld?
2. If you could only keep one instrument from your collection, what would it be?
May be typical.. But it's the guitar.. I've only got one decent one.. It's a Taylor
3. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
This question is frustratingly hard, and I can't answer it properly, but I will say that "Idols Of Exile" by Jason Collett didn't get the credit it deserved
4. What was the first moment you considered yourself a 'professional musician'?
When I had the opportunity to get back to even with debt and went ahead and spent the money on more gear
5. If forced to cover one hip hop song, what would it be?
93 Til Infinity by Souls Of Mischief
MP3:: Dan Mangan - Road Regrets
MYSPACE:: http://www.myspace.com/danmangan
WEB:: http://www.danmanganmusic.com/
Labels: Dan Mangan, Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09
Friday, October 9, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Matilda from VALLEYS
I have been championing these guys for a minute now, so the chance for me to see what happens when their fragile songs take on more of a shoegazing vibe when they hit the stage is thanks enough for this blog - note, if you want to send us cash, booze or cookies, well we won't say no.
Anyway. Tillie went head to head with the random question generator and we learned that sometimes pants aren't tight enough and Lou Bega has more game then we would have expected. All in all, either is good enough for a Friday.
Name: Tillie Perks
Band: Valleys
Web: www.myspace.com/valleyvalleysvalleys
1. Would it be worth all the royalties to have to have your name attached to the 'Mambo Number 5?'
It depends, how much are we talking about?
2. Where was your first live performance?
Afro/World beat night club called Balattou in Montreal!
3. What is the worst experience you've had on the road since you started touring?
Sleeping with Lou Bega and still not getting my name in "Mambo Number 5".
4. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
YES! My friend Josh started exclusively wearing leggings because his tight pants weren't tight enough. It was a good move.
5. What excites you about most about making music?
The prospect of justifying an irresponsible lifestyle indefinitely.
MP3:: VALLEYS - Silent Woods
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/valleyvalleysvalleys
WEB:: http://www.semprinirecords.com/artists/11-valleys
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Music, Valleys
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Nancy from Dog Day
Our random question rundown of the performers at this year's HPX rolls on with Halifax's premier purveyors of darkly melodic indie rock: Dog Day
Although they somehow manage to maintain a low profile, you'd be hard pressed to find a Halifax band that's been discussed more on the intertubes than this Halifax foursome (yes, they remain a foursome despite drummer KC Spidle's departure, Rob Shedden (The Got To Get Got) is stepping in). With good reason too, very few bands are able to pair dark, swirling sounds and good old fashioned fuzzed out rock with floaty male/female harmonies like DD can. Dog Day's HPX show is on Saturday, Oct. 24th at The Seahorse, where they'll be headlining an evening that also features Ontario outfits Attack In Black & Ex-Po as well as Halifax's The Mighty Northumberland. So let's see how DD bassist Nancy Urich fared vs. the random question machine:
Name: Nancy Urich
Band: Dog Day
Web: www.dogdaymusic.com
1. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
probably around 5 days or so. thats when ya start using the filth as a protective coating. ewww.
2. Name one Halifax must-do for someone visiting for the first time.
hmmm. i guess i'd have to say check out some rawk shows wherever they may be. otherwise, food such as Robie Food.
3. We might invite you to play the fictional Hillfest, what will be on your rider?
water, local beer and bourbon. and then any meatless foods, we accept the standard nachos, salsa and hummus.
4. Discuss your #1 musical influence in one sentence. Go.
guitar rock reverb and harmonies. that's probably not a sentence.
5. Name a song you love that might surprise people.
valentine girl by the new kids. tho thats probably not a surprise.
Like your favorite Twin Hype EP, this post is a bit of a Double Barrel. This is because Nancy's answering of our random questions also coincides with the release of Elder Schoolhouse, a five song, limited edition vinyl release that the band recorded with Rick White at Elder Schoolhouse (one of the songs on side A was written by White himself for the band), which serves as White's home/studio. This release finds the band in a more musically experimental mood, stretching and exploring their songs moreso than in the past, but their trademark sound is still there. DD has released Synastry as a single, and you can check out its combination of driving guitar and haunting vocals below.
As I said, this is a limited vinyl release (400 copies to ship the end of this month), so head over to Divorce records to snap one up.
Although they somehow manage to maintain a low profile, you'd be hard pressed to find a Halifax band that's been discussed more on the intertubes than this Halifax foursome (yes, they remain a foursome despite drummer KC Spidle's departure, Rob Shedden (The Got To Get Got) is stepping in). With good reason too, very few bands are able to pair dark, swirling sounds and good old fashioned fuzzed out rock with floaty male/female harmonies like DD can. Dog Day's HPX show is on Saturday, Oct. 24th at The Seahorse, where they'll be headlining an evening that also features Ontario outfits Attack In Black & Ex-Po as well as Halifax's The Mighty Northumberland. So let's see how DD bassist Nancy Urich fared vs. the random question machine:
Name: Nancy Urich
Band: Dog Day
Web: www.dogdaymusic.com
1. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
probably around 5 days or so. thats when ya start using the filth as a protective coating. ewww.
2. Name one Halifax must-do for someone visiting for the first time.
hmmm. i guess i'd have to say check out some rawk shows wherever they may be. otherwise, food such as Robie Food.
3. We might invite you to play the fictional Hillfest, what will be on your rider?
water, local beer and bourbon. and then any meatless foods, we accept the standard nachos, salsa and hummus.
4. Discuss your #1 musical influence in one sentence. Go.
guitar rock reverb and harmonies. that's probably not a sentence.
5. Name a song you love that might surprise people.
valentine girl by the new kids. tho thats probably not a surprise.
As I said, this is a limited vinyl release (400 copies to ship the end of this month), so head over to Divorce records to snap one up.
MP3:: Dog Day - Synastry
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/dogdaytheband
Labels: Dog Day, Five Funky Stories, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Mike from York Redoubt
My how time flies, HPX '09 is but a mere couple weeks away, and so we roll on with our random-question powered preview. Perhaps you've heard, but this year's herohill showcase takes place on Wednesday, Oct. 21st at the Seahorse, and so far, from that evening's stellar lineup, we've talked to folks from Bruce Peninsula and The Got To Get Get. But now I think its time for a random chat with evening openers York Redoubt
The Ack was a big fan of the melodic distortion found on YR's self-titled debut, and I have to say that, even though on first listen I wasn't sure if they were in my wheelhouse, I'm actually a really big fan of their album now. So do yourself a favour and check out York Redoubt, and then join us at the Seahorse on the 21st. Mike from YR was kind enough to answer some questions, so let's get to them.
Name: Gordon Mike Wright
Band: York Redoubt
Web: www.hotmoneyrecords.com
1. Why do people still say 'We're doing an East Coast tour!' when they're only going as far as Quebec?
I wouldn't know. We are a regional band.
2. What is the worst experience you've had on the road since you started touring?
I've only been on one tour, but I know now that I'm afraid of moose at night.
3. Name a band that you wish was still putting out records
The Gideons
4. Name your all-time favorite Halifax album.
Hi Firey - Don't Worry About The Future
5. You can ask any musician dead or alive one question, who do you ask?
I might ask Patsy Cline to tell me about doom.
The Ack was a big fan of the melodic distortion found on YR's self-titled debut, and I have to say that, even though on first listen I wasn't sure if they were in my wheelhouse, I'm actually a really big fan of their album now. So do yourself a favour and check out York Redoubt, and then join us at the Seahorse on the 21st. Mike from YR was kind enough to answer some questions, so let's get to them.
Name: Gordon Mike Wright
Band: York Redoubt
Web: www.hotmoneyrecords.com
1. Why do people still say 'We're doing an East Coast tour!' when they're only going as far as Quebec?
I wouldn't know. We are a regional band.
2. What is the worst experience you've had on the road since you started touring?
I've only been on one tour, but I know now that I'm afraid of moose at night.
3. Name a band that you wish was still putting out records
The Gideons
4. Name your all-time favorite Halifax album.
Hi Firey - Don't Worry About The Future
5. You can ask any musician dead or alive one question, who do you ask?
I might ask Patsy Cline to tell me about doom.
MP3:: York Redoubt - Upside
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/yorkredoubt
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Halifax, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, York Redoubt
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Chad from Kestrels
Five Funky Stories:: Chad from Kestrels
If you know our history here at the hill, you'll know that we enjoy the cut of Kestrels jib. We've talked about them a few times on the site, and they're a past recipient of the herohill/MNS artist of the month designation, so it was natural that we got them hooked up with our random question machine in advance of their HPX show.
You can see Kestrels play as part of the Noyes showcase on Wednesday, Oct. 21st at the Toothy Moose along with Hannah Georges, Said The Whale, and The Memories Attack. Yes, that happens to be the same night as the herohill showcase, and so ordinarily I would tell you to forget going to it, but I hear the Toothy Moose has a huge moose sign that shoots steam out of it's nose, so I wouldn't want anyone to miss that. Oh, and the bands are pretty great too. Anyway, to the matter at hand. Kestrels frontman Chad agreed to face the random question machine, so let's get to it.
Name: Chad
Band: Kestrels
Web: www.kestrels.ca
1. Name a song you love that might surprise people.
"I Want You" by Elvis Costello. Not actually a guilty pleasure...that song is just stupidly good.
2. What's your favorite thing to do to pass time on the road?
Read and listen to the iPod. Excessive mouth breathing to annoy my bandmates. I like going to guitar stores more than I probably should.
3. If forced to cover one hip hop song, what would it be?
'Basketball' by Kurtis Blow / 'Triumph' by Wu-Tang / 'Dog Shit' by Wu-tang.
4. Phil Collins, yes or no?
NO. Yes. (records). Well...he was part of this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lamb_Lies_Down_on_Broadway so it's not a total no.
5. What's the most unusual audience you've played for?
Seated theatre of about 150 people at the Marigold Center in Truro. 99% of the crowd was there to see the Novaks, and we were deer in the bright stage lights.
If you know our history here at the hill, you'll know that we enjoy the cut of Kestrels jib. We've talked about them a few times on the site, and they're a past recipient of the herohill/MNS artist of the month designation, so it was natural that we got them hooked up with our random question machine in advance of their HPX show.
You can see Kestrels play as part of the Noyes showcase on Wednesday, Oct. 21st at the Toothy Moose along with Hannah Georges, Said The Whale, and The Memories Attack. Yes, that happens to be the same night as the herohill showcase, and so ordinarily I would tell you to forget going to it, but I hear the Toothy Moose has a huge moose sign that shoots steam out of it's nose, so I wouldn't want anyone to miss that. Oh, and the bands are pretty great too. Anyway, to the matter at hand. Kestrels frontman Chad agreed to face the random question machine, so let's get to it.
Name: Chad
Band: Kestrels
Web: www.kestrels.ca
1. Name a song you love that might surprise people.
"I Want You" by Elvis Costello. Not actually a guilty pleasure...that song is just stupidly good.
2. What's your favorite thing to do to pass time on the road?
Read and listen to the iPod. Excessive mouth breathing to annoy my bandmates. I like going to guitar stores more than I probably should.
3. If forced to cover one hip hop song, what would it be?
'Basketball' by Kurtis Blow / 'Triumph' by Wu-Tang / 'Dog Shit' by Wu-tang.
4. Phil Collins, yes or no?
NO. Yes. (records). Well...he was part of this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Lamb_Lies_Down_on_Broadway so it's not a total no.
5. What's the most unusual audience you've played for?
Seated theatre of about 150 people at the Marigold Center in Truro. 99% of the crowd was there to see the Novaks, and we were deer in the bright stage lights.
MP3:: Kestrels - Our Velocity
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/kestrelskestrels
Labels: Five Funky Stories, HPX 09, Kestrels, Phil Collins
Friday, September 25, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Ricardo from Oldfolks Home
Now that the countdown for HPX '09 is on, we've been trying to pit our magical random question machine against as many of this year's performers as possible in the hopes that hilarity and/or insight would ensue. So who's our latest contestant? Why it's Ricardo Lopez of Winnipeg's Oldfolks Home.
Ricardo and OFH is a natural choice for us, considering he's been featured on our Manitoba mixtape, done a fantastic take on a BSS song for our sporadic Word On The Beat section, and seems to be by all accounts a very nice dude. Ricardo & OFH are part of a great HPX show, playing The Paragon on Thursday, October 22nd with Jenocide, Think About Life, and mr. Roland Pemberton - so read his answers below, and then get out and see him next month.
Name: Ricardo
Band: Oldfolks Home
Web: www.myspace.com/oldfolkshomemusic
1. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
It depends on how hot the weather is. Although my yoga shorts are pretty tight, but I am expecting to sweat and they're shorts. Does that count? I guess my real answer is no. I don't have the right kind of legs.
2. What's the best band name you can think of in the next 15 seconds?
I can't say on the internet for fear of insulting too many people and ruining my bands good name.
3. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
You Forgot it in People by BSS
4. Mr. Dressup or The Friendly Giant? (or neither because you're too young and have no idea who they are)
Because I don't remember either (although I watched both), The Hilarious House of Frightenstein.
5. Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, or WFT does that mean?
Patio Lanterns because he complains too much in Go For A Soda.
Ricardo and OFH is a natural choice for us, considering he's been featured on our Manitoba mixtape, done a fantastic take on a BSS song for our sporadic Word On The Beat section, and seems to be by all accounts a very nice dude. Ricardo & OFH are part of a great HPX show, playing The Paragon on Thursday, October 22nd with Jenocide, Think About Life, and mr. Roland Pemberton - so read his answers below, and then get out and see him next month.
Name: Ricardo
Band: Oldfolks Home
Web: www.myspace.com/oldfolkshomemusic
1. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
It depends on how hot the weather is. Although my yoga shorts are pretty tight, but I am expecting to sweat and they're shorts. Does that count? I guess my real answer is no. I don't have the right kind of legs.
2. What's the best band name you can think of in the next 15 seconds?
I can't say on the internet for fear of insulting too many people and ruining my bands good name.
3. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
You Forgot it in People by BSS
4. Mr. Dressup or The Friendly Giant? (or neither because you're too young and have no idea who they are)
Because I don't remember either (although I watched both), The Hilarious House of Frightenstein.
5. Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, or WFT does that mean?
Patio Lanterns because he complains too much in Go For A Soda.
MP3:: Oldfolks Home - Letter To Kerri
MP3:: Oldfolks Home - I Hate Dell (Ruby Jean and the Thoughtful Bees RMX)
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/oldfolkshomemusic
Labels: Five Funky Stories, HPX 09, Oldfolks Home, Winnipeg
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: D-Sisive
Five Funky Stories is the magical random question generator to harass profile acts that are coming to Halifax, and with HPX on the horizon, we're going to try and feature as many of the acts as we can here. We're starting with one someone I'm rather excited to see perform, D-Sisive.
I doubt anyone in the bloggity-blog world has talked more about this T.O. MC and his return to the music world over the last year or so than us, so if you need to know his history, just poke around the site for posts like this here and this one.
You can check out D live in Halifax when he plays the Coconut Grove on October 21st, but now let's get the questions:
Name: D-Sisive
Band: Chaka Demus and Pliers
Web: www.myspace.com/dsisive
1. Have you ever played a keytar?
Nope. But have you heard the news? Dewey Cox died.
2. From your perspective, is the music business in better or worse shape when compared to 10 years ago?
It's different. It's benefitting in different ways than it did, though also suffering. It's easy to blame downloading, but I believe it's responsible for it's own demise. The value of music has gone down because of the bullshit that's released. Art is a minority more than ever. I can write about this for hours, but it's nothing that hasn't been said already. We need to do something about this Napster all the kids are using. Once you ban that, people will buy music again.
3. Who would you pay to see play live?
I've recently discovered the genius that is Tiny Tim beyond "Tiptoe Through The Tulips". His music is incredible. I paid over $100 for the 'Complete Reprise' collection and it's brilliant. His production is insane. I can't believe he hasn't been sampled to death. If he was still around, I'd definitely pay to see him live.
4. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
Not more than three days. I've heard many filthy road stories, but I've been fortunate to have been able to consistantly clean myself during my long trips. Though, there have been nights where a hotel room wasn't provided, but the venue had a shower. Let's just say it's not easy to exfoliate when you're stepping in shit. I went through a lot of socks in the UK.
5. If forced to cover one hip hop song, what would it be?
Forced, like at gunpoint? I've covered a lot of songs in my day, so I'm going to treat this like an 'at gunpoint' question and assume you want me to name a three minute and thirty second hunk of shit. "Popped", though I will forever love that beat.
I doubt anyone in the bloggity-blog world has talked more about this T.O. MC and his return to the music world over the last year or so than us, so if you need to know his history, just poke around the site for posts like this here and this one.
You can check out D live in Halifax when he plays the Coconut Grove on October 21st, but now let's get the questions:
Name: D-Sisive
Band: Chaka Demus and Pliers
Web: www.myspace.com/dsisive
1. Have you ever played a keytar?
Nope. But have you heard the news? Dewey Cox died.
2. From your perspective, is the music business in better or worse shape when compared to 10 years ago?
It's different. It's benefitting in different ways than it did, though also suffering. It's easy to blame downloading, but I believe it's responsible for it's own demise. The value of music has gone down because of the bullshit that's released. Art is a minority more than ever. I can write about this for hours, but it's nothing that hasn't been said already. We need to do something about this Napster all the kids are using. Once you ban that, people will buy music again.
3. Who would you pay to see play live?
I've recently discovered the genius that is Tiny Tim beyond "Tiptoe Through The Tulips". His music is incredible. I paid over $100 for the 'Complete Reprise' collection and it's brilliant. His production is insane. I can't believe he hasn't been sampled to death. If he was still around, I'd definitely pay to see him live.
4. What's the longest time period you've gone without showering on the road?
Not more than three days. I've heard many filthy road stories, but I've been fortunate to have been able to consistantly clean myself during my long trips. Though, there have been nights where a hotel room wasn't provided, but the venue had a shower. Let's just say it's not easy to exfoliate when you're stepping in shit. I went through a lot of socks in the UK.
5. If forced to cover one hip hop song, what would it be?
Forced, like at gunpoint? I've covered a lot of songs in my day, so I'm going to treat this like an 'at gunpoint' question and assume you want me to name a three minute and thirty second hunk of shit. "Popped", though I will forever love that beat.
MP3:: D-Sisive - Like This f. Guilty Simpson
MP3:: D-Sisive - Four
MP3:: DJ Serious & D-Sisive - Popped
MP3:: Chaka Demus & Pliers - Murder She Wrote
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/dsisive
Labels: Canadian Hip Hip, D-Sisive, Five Funky Stories, HPX 09
Monday, July 13, 2009
Five Funky Stories:: Maya Miller of the Pack A.D.
In an effort to bring a bit of shine to the bands that actually make the effort to hit up Halifax on a tour, we have started a section called, Five Funky Stories (+10 blogger points if you get the reference). Basically, we built this handy dandy random question generator that sends out some funny questions to the band, they fill out a few witty retorts hit submit and it's go time.
I honestly can't think of a better band to jump start anything to do with touring, then Vancouver's heavy hitting garage/blues The Pack AD. Maya and Becky have toured the shit out of North America in the last year, somehow playing almost as many shows as their are days in the year. With the support of coffee, Falcon and some terrific fans, they just finished playing playing 84 shows in 95 days. Hot damn.
The girls will tear the roof off Gus' Pub on July 20th and in case you were still on the fence, just keep reading and see how fun Maya is.
Name: Maya Miller
Band: The Pack A.D.
Web: www.thepackafterdeath.com
1. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
Hmm, yes, but only if it doesn't make them appear genital-less...because that's just depressing.
2. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
Day for Night - The Tragically Hip or anything by Anne Murray
3. Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, or WFT does that mean?
I would rather squeeze lemon juice into my eyeballs.
4. What's the best band name you can think of in the next 15 seconds?
Corntoe Attack
5. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto
I honestly can't think of a better band to jump start anything to do with touring, then Vancouver's heavy hitting garage/blues The Pack AD. Maya and Becky have toured the shit out of North America in the last year, somehow playing almost as many shows as their are days in the year. With the support of coffee, Falcon and some terrific fans, they just finished playing playing 84 shows in 95 days. Hot damn.
The girls will tear the roof off Gus' Pub on July 20th and in case you were still on the fence, just keep reading and see how fun Maya is.
Name: Maya Miller
Band: The Pack A.D.
Web: www.thepackafterdeath.com
1. Super tight pants on dudes: Yes! or Noooooooooooooooo!
Hmm, yes, but only if it doesn't make them appear genital-less...because that's just depressing.
2. Name your all-time favorite Canadian album.
Day for Night - The Tragically Hip or anything by Anne Murray
3. Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, or WFT does that mean?
I would rather squeeze lemon juice into my eyeballs.
4. What's the best band name you can think of in the next 15 seconds?
Corntoe Attack
5. What is your favorite venue to play (excluding those in your city of residence)
Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto
MP3:: The Pack A.D. - Snow (live @ The Horseshoe Tavern)
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/thepackad
Labels: Five Funky Stories, Halifax, Music, The Pack AD
