You'll have to forgive me, as I'm still kind of reeling from the Saints improbable & miraculous wining of Super Bowl 44 on Sunday night. As such, I don't have a formal post for you today, so I thought I'd give you a bit of a Tuesday treat by posting a few songs from Bahamas & John K. Samson that I captured during their show at last month's In The Dead of Winter festival.

I wish I had more songs, or rather, more songs in better quality, but hey, for free.99, it's not a bad deal. I actually wish I had some video of yer man Afie "Bahamas" Jurvanen doing a few songs, because he's quite a character. At first I thought he was un-impressed with the whole "playing solo in a church" setup, but I realized after a few songs that he's just a bit out there, and also quite funny. His set was a big hit though, and it made me go back to his album afterwards for some repeated listens.

John K. Samson on the other hand, is also pretty funny, but what he is mainly is an accomplished musician, with a literary style that few can match. Samson went so far as to re-write lyrics to a famous hymnal, and place them in a number of the hymnbooks in the pews. He also mounted the impressive St. Pat's pulpit to give an appropriate version of Elegy For Gump Worsley.

It was a great evening, well worth braving the snowy evening that made the festival's name ring very true, so enjoy the songs.

MP3:: Bahamas - Southern Drawl

MP3:: Bahamas - What's Worse

MP3:: John K. Samson - Cruise Night

MP3:: John K. Samson - Utilities

MP3:: John K. Samson - One Great City

Labels: Bahamas, Halifax, IDOW, In the Dead of Winter, John K Samson, Live

This is going to be a super quick hitter as my time is being occupied by many non-hill activities this week, and my mind is having trouble thinking about anything other than my beloved Saints and their impending Super Bowl debut this Sunday night in Miami. So here is the crux of this post:

If you're in Halifax, go see By Divine Right at The Seahorse tonight. If you aren't in Halifax, go buy yourself a copy of Mutant Message right now.

Because I've already said it like 5 times in the last 2 or 3 weeks, I'm not going to say "I've been meaning to write about By Divine Right since last year", but I have. I stumbled into their last set at The Seahorse during HPX when I wandered into the Hand Drawn Dracula showcase in hopes of catching the end of Julie "Shitballs" Fader's set, but although I had missed hers entirely, Jose Contreras & Co. were getting setup for theirs. I'd heard the name By Divine Right often, but knew nothing about them, so I thought I'd check them out. Contreras ended up breaking a string on the first song, so he asked Brian Borcherdt if he could "borrow his nastiness" while BB replaced the string, which I enjoyed for some reason. I also enjoyed their set a great deal, and was humming "Que Paso, Que Paso" to myself for the next couple days.

So when we were sent Mutant Message, I eagerly loaded it up on the ole iFizzle, and I've been enjoying it ever since. I kept trying to carve out some time for a proper review of it, but that time escaped me as it so often does. But let me just say that on MM I think Contreras chops as both a musician and a producer shine through, as it sounds effortless, catchy & fun, but it also feels rather painstakingly crafted in many spots. It's a great record in my humble, with songs like I Love A Girl, Que Paso, Wings Too Big, Kiss My Chakras, and I Will Hook You Up all surely to inspire a lot of smile & singing along tonight at The Seahorse.

MP3:: By Divine Right - I Love A Girl
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/bydivineright

VIDEO:: By Divine RIght - I Love A Girl

Labels: By Divine Right, Halifax, Hand Drawn Dracula, Live, Quick Hitters, Shitballs, Toronto

Unfortunately we didn't make it out to any In The Dead of Winter festivities last night, but hopefully you did. Tonight is chock-a-block full of options again, as you likely remember from our Friday Preview - again, that Bahamas/John K. Samson bill at St. Pat's will be hard to pass up. But today, we're going to have a look at what's on tap for Saturday night:


St. Patrick’s Church, $25:
8:00 - Catherine MacLellan
9:00 - Justin Rutledge
10:00 - Jim Bryson

The Company House, $20:
7:30 - Babette Hayward
8:00 - Jon McKiel
9:00 - Jon Brooks

The Bus Stop Theatre, $15:
8:00 - Gabrielle Papillon
9:00 - Jenny Omnichord
10:00 - Dreamsploitation
11:00 - Dinah Thorpe

FRED, $10:
8:00 - Gianna Lauren
9:00 - David Celia
10:00 - Brooke Miller

Those in the market for something a little different would likely enjoy that Bus Stop Theatre show with Jenny Omnichord and Dreamsploitation, but St. Pat's has another pretty amazing show on offer as well. Get out and see something on the festival's last night.

MP3:: Jim Bryson - Fallen Leaves (Live)

Labels: Halifax, IDOW, In the Dead of Winter, Jim Bryson, Jon Mckiel, Justin Rutledge, Live

I don't know about you, but last night's IDOW opener didn't disappoint your friends here at the hill. We tucked into a table at the back of the intimate Bus Stop Theatre, and even though the weather outside wasn't overly wintry, based on the packed room, we weren't the only ones interested in some musical mid-winter therapy.

And that therapy was bountiful, as Toronto's The Wooden Sky backed up their selection to our year-end best of list with a "quiet" but very enthusiastic set of gems from their last album and even a rendition of the Royal City cover they were kind enough to give us for the year-end post. As you might've read yesterday, we were pretty interested in finding out what the Paper Beat Scissors' set was going to sound like with the addition of Chuck Blazevic and Dreamsploitation atmospherics added to the mix. Well our high hopes were met, as the PBS set (which also included Jess Tesolin on cello Ryan Veltmeyer on junkstruments, and Kyle Cunjak (Olympic Symphonium) on the double bass) was pretty awesome. Adding all those elements gave the songs a more expansive feel, but at the same time Tim's vocals seemed even more stark and plaintive than usual. Unfortunately we had to head out only after a couple of CR Avery songs, but if the awed silence during his ode to Pierre Elliot Trudeau was any indication, his set was likely really well received.

I know you checked out yesterday's Thursday night preview, so what's on tap for tomorrow you ask? Well let's have a look, and be sure to scroll down for some treats from last night.

St. Patrick’s Church, $25:
8:00 - Carmen Townsend
9:00 - Bahamas
10:00 - John K Sampson

The Company House, $20:
7:30 - Klarka Weinwurm
8:00 - Del Barber
9:00 - The Abramson Singers
10:00 - Melissa McClelland

The Bus Stop Theatre, $15:
8:00 - Cahalen David Morrison
9:00 - Racoon Bandit
10:00 - Erin Costelo
11:00 - Zumbini

FRED, $10:
8:00 - Kim Dunn
9:00 - Shaun Cromwell
10:00 - The Hupman Brothers

MP3:: John K. Samson - Cruise Night

MP3:: The Abramson Singers - You Don't Love Me (Bob Wiseman cover)

MP3:: Erin Costelo - Weak Like Us

As I think we've already mentioned, you'll find us tomorrow night at St. Pat's church worshiping at the alter of Bahamas and John K. Samson. And now, treats:

MP3:: Paper Beat Scissors - Bad Days (Live @ IDOW)

MP3:: The Wooden Sky - An Evening Hymn (Live @ IDOW)

MP3:: The Wooden Sky - My Old Ghosts (Live @ IDOW)

VIDEO:: The Wooden Sky - Raw Youth (Royal City cover)


VIDEO:: Paper Beat Scissors - Flicker

Labels: Bahamas, Halifax, IDOW, In the Dead of Winter, John K Samson, Live, Paper Beat Scissors, The Wooden Sky

Well now, it's Wednesday, and thanks to yesterday's IDOW preview you have your plan for tonight figured out, but what to check out tomorrow night? As per usual, there are plenty of options, so Let us assist you:





St. Patrick’s Church, $25:
8:00 - The Good Lovelies
9:00 - Rose Cousins

The Company House, $20:
7:30 - Natasha Peach
8:00 - Charlotte Cornfield
9:00 - Thom Swift
10:00 - Ken Whiteley

The Bus Stop Theatre, $15:
8:00 - Leif Vollebekk
9:00 - Acres and Acres
10:00 - The Undesirables
11:00 - Steve Gates

FRED, $10:
8:00 - Jon Bryant
9:00 - Kim Wempe
10:00 - Ria Mae

If you've never seen Rose Cousins live, seeing Rose & The Good Lovelies at St. Pat's church would be, well, lovely. Rose is, of course, the possessor of a clear & striking voice, and she's also a very thoughtful, gifted songwriter. On top of those valuable qualities though, she's also very funny, and she will most certainly keep you entertained. If you're looking for something a bit more rough-hewn, you can check out the alt.country-esque lineup and the Bus Stop Theatre, featuring Halifax's awesome Acres and Acres sandwiched by Montreal's Leif Vollebekk and Toronto's The Undesirables. Failing that, you can catch some local sing-songwriters in the intimate surroundings at FRED, featuring Kim Wempe, who might be a little distracted as her song Oh Heart will be featured on Showcase's Crash & Burn that same evening.

MP3:: Rose Cousins - Maybe I Knew (Live In Wolfville)

MP3:: Leif Vollebekk - Don't Go to Klaksvik

MP3:: Kim Wempe - Oh Heart (Radio Mix)

Labels: Halifax, IDOW, In the Dead of Winter, Live

Now that the holiday break is well and truly in the rear-view mirror, I thought I'd get the Showstravaganza posts back up and smoking, mainly because there are some really great shows on deck here in the coming weeks. Many of said shows will be part of the 2010 edition of the In The Dead of Winter festival which is going down on the 26th-30th here in Halifax at various venues (check out the schedule here).

That said, let's not sell this weekend short, for one main reason: Afrika Bambaataa! Yes, THAT Afrika Bambaataa, the founder of the Universal Zulu Nation and one of the most beloved hip hop pioneers you could hope to find (Bambaataa's background is an awesome read, if you don't know it already, check it out). Honestly, you could play me Planet Rock an infinite amount of times and I would never get tire of it. I wonder if all the kids who love the "electro rap" jams that have become popular in the last couple years really know who originally thought to mesh hip hop with the electronic nuttiness of someone like Kraftwork. Well, you, and they, can see who it was tonight at the Paragon as Bambaataa returns to Halifax. Honestly, if I wasn't so old and crotchety, I'd be at this for sure.

That's not all this weekend has to offer though, as Monotonix also returns to Halifax to play the Paragon with Black Moor and A History Of tomorrow night. Monotonix' HPX show from a couple years ago still talked about due to the both the intense rocking and zany antics this Tel Aviv trio brought to Gus' that night. Will this show be the same? Only one way to find out...

MP3:: Afrika Bambaataa - Planet Rock

MP3:: Monotonix - Set Me Free

Labels: Afrika Bambaataa, Friday Showstravaganza, Halifax, Live, Monotonix

If you ever read music blogs other than this one, and unless you're married to one of us, or gave birth to one of us, I can't imagine why you wouldn't, you're likely aware that Brooklyn, NY, is kind of the mecca of indie music culture in the US of A. Not surprisingly, Halifax doesn't often see most of the buzz bands that come out of BK, as the Maritimes isn't exactly at the top of the must-play list for bands trying to establish themselves (although our casino does seem to be a must-play for has-been trying not to disappear completely, so hey, we've got that going for us). However, you can see one such band here this weekend if you are seeing Hey Rosetta! on either Friday or Saturday night at The Paragon: Brooklyn's La Strada is opening for them.

At first blush, the pairing of the St. John's superheroes with a band from Brooklyn seems like an odd one, but if you listen to both bands, it's a rather apt pairing. Both bands create sweeping, anthemic songs around the literary songwriting of their headman (James Craft in La Strada's case, Tim Baker for Hey Rosetta!), but whereas HR are naturally inclined to be inspired by the traditional sounds of their home province, which admittedly they shape and mold into a thoroughly modern folk-rock type sound, La Strada bring to mind island sounds of a different, more European bent. Like Corsica perhaps (Yeah, I just name-checked Corsica. Big deal, that's how we operate around here). Given Craft's geographically diverse past, he was born in France, and has also lived in Northern California and Romania, this assertion might actually make a bit of sense.

I'd love to say I was blown away by my first listening of La Strada's latest EP, but their songs have a more subtle charm that draw you in after a few listens. I can happily say that after spending a bit of time with the record, the songs have revealed themselves to be really quite catchy. The wistful Orphan mixes soaring strings with accordion and somber drums to create a Dickensian soundtrack with which to greet your morning. That morning would be enhanced even further by The Sun Song, with it's marching band drums and triumphant vocals, it's an unlikely peptalk of a song. While I'm not exactly sure you could really describe Flying as up-tempo, it uses some rather lovely, albeit word-free, vocal harmonies, and almost Asian-sounding strings, to send the listener on a rather enjoyable trip. Starling is an accordion-led sing-along that feels as though it should be accompanied by the synchronized thud of beer-mugs being banged on the table at your next indie-Oktoberfest gathering.

So, if you're in Halifax this weekend, make your way to the Paragon for this show (I believe Saturday is sold out, so Friday might be the move), because I think it's going to be a great one. I should also mention that a portion of that greatness will be coming from hill favorite Jon McKiel, who is also on the bill, and no less important than the other two acts - I'm just not smart enough to have worked him into the post before now. If you aren't in Halifax, check out La Strada's EP, and give it a few listens, it's worth it I think.

MP3:: La Strada - Starling
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/lastradanyc

Labels: Halifax, Hey Rosetta, Jon Mckiel, La Strada, Live, Quick Hitters

Oh hey, Arts & Crafts recording artists The Most Serene Republic are in town tonight at the Paragon, and it just so happens we did one of our patented Five Funky Story random Q&A's with them! Well then, let's get to it:





Name: Adrian
Band: The Most Serene Republic
Web: www.themostserenerepublic.ca

1. Would it be worth all the royalties to have to have your name attached to the 'Mambo Number 5?'

Yes. Of Course.

2. What was the last book you read?

Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman

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?

No, I would ask him to put on pants or leave.

4. Patio Lanterns, Go For Soda, or WFT does that mean?

?

5. Have you ever played a keytar?

No.

...what, we're back already? That was quick, but it was fun and, uhhhh, enlightening, right? Not so much really, but oh well, TMSR are clearly a band of (very) few words, but I bet they'll have more than a few tight-panted asses shaking tonight at the Paragon, as will the two local outfits that are joining them: Mardeen and The First Aid Kit (these guys especially, I've only seen them live once briefly, but they've been a fav for a while now). So you're likely in-store for a good time if you're venturing out to the Paragon tonight, but that Myles Deck/Cuban Assassins split 7" release show at Gus' could very well be just as much bang for your buck I'd say.

MP3:: The Most Serene Republic - Heavens To Purgatory

MP3:: Myles Deck and the Fuzz – The Healing Power

MP3:: Cuban Assassins - Money

Labels: Cuban Assassins, Friday Showstravaganza, Halifax, Live, Myles Deck and the Fuzz, The Most Serene Republic

Its a fine Friday here in Halifax, and if you are here, you are no doubt busy working out your weekend plans in order to take advantage of the lovely weather we seem to have on tap. Well let's see if we can assist with a quick rundown of some events of interest. I say some events, but really, we all know there's only one can't miss show this weekend: Rob Base at The Palace.

I keed, but only slightly. If you know the Ack and I at all, you know very well that the only two things that will make us rush the dance floor at our advanced age is either strong hallucinogens or It Takes Two. In fact I went to see Rob Base play the Palace in the late 90's, so don't think I'm not tempted to see him again, but unfortunately/fortunately, my plans dictate otherwise. But if any of you can brave the douche nozzles that frequent The Palace, go for it. But of course, the real marquee lineup is at the old Marquee, with Wax Mannequin, Rae Spoon, Brian Borcherdt and Julie Fader all playing the Paragon on Saturday night. I dare say, if you make it out to that one, you are going to get your money's worth and then some. Yarmouth native Mr. Borcherdt is pistol-hot right now, having just released a new, free album, but Julie Fader's recent release, Outside In, is a collection of lovely songs that's worth your time.

There are certainly some other solid shows this weekend, which you can check for yourself below, but I'd also like to take a minute to pass on word of a couple of great events taking place next week. Trevor Murphy (Sleepless Nights, Quiet Parade), and his radio show Halifax Is Burning, is presenting a couple of very cool shows that will hopefully help out the Parker Street Food bank, so if you're in town next week, grab yourself a donation and head out to one of these events:

Halifax Is Burning Presents:
If It's Too Loud, Turn It DOWN!

featuring:
Jon McKiel & Klarka Weinwurm (http://www.myspace.com/jonmckiel + http://www.myspace.com/klarkaweinwurm)
Gianna Lauren (http://www.myspace.com/giannalauren)
Quiet Parade (solo) (http://www.myspace.com/quietparade)
Sam Ryan (http://www.myspace.com/samryanband)

Wednesday, November 25th
The University of King's College Chapel - 7:00pm - FREE!

AND

Halifax Is Burning Presents:
If It's Too Loud, Turn It UP!

featuring:

The Establishment (http://www.myspace.com/theestablishmentband)
Kestrels (http://www.myspace.com/kestrelskestrels)
The Bad Arts ((http://www.myspace.com/thebadbadarts)

Thursday, November 26th
Gus' Pub - 10:00pm - $5.00

*At both shows, there will be a donation box for the Parker Street Food Bank so bring any extra non-perishable food you have and make a donation, especially with the holidays coming up. If you make a donation, you are automatically entered into a draw for sweet prizes (details to come)*

Halifax Is Burning airs Tuesdays from 6:30pm to 7:30pm on CKDU 88.1FM in Halifax.

http://halifaxisburning.blogspot.com
http://www.ckdu.ca

MP3:: Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock - It Takes Two

MP3:: Brian Borcherdt - Workin For The Weekend

MP3:: Rae Spoon - Come On Forest Fire Burn The Disco Down

MP3:: Shotgun Jimmie - Mind Crumb

MP3:: Jon Mckiel - Fist Fight (Live @ Gus')

Labels: Brian Borcherdt, Friday Showstravaganza, Halifax, Julie Fader, Live, Rob Base

The Friganza returns! It's been a while since we've posted our rundown of the weekend shows here in Halifax, but you'll have to cut us a bit of slack, as we've had a few things going on. But things, schmings, there's a lot going on, so let's get to it.

If the two of us can power through the illness in our bodies and households, you'll find us at the Paragon, taking in a show we've been looking forward to for a while: The Deep Dark Woods & Elliot Brood at The Paragon. I'm sure many of you are familiar with Polaris short listeners Elliot Brood, but if you haven't seen them live, I suggest you do so because although the sets at the Polaris gala were short, EB had the crowd in a tray whacking frenzy by the time theirs was over. The Deep Dark Woods were recently tabbed by CBC Radio 2 listeners to represent Saskatchewan in their SongQuest songwriting contest, but if you'd read the Ack's review of their last album, you wouldn't be surprised. These two excellent outfits will be joined be talented local Laura Merrimen (check our review of her last album), and so this is going to be quite the evening.

That show is far from your only choice though, as Friday night also see release shows from The Gideons and A History Of at The Khyber and Club 1668 respectively. Hill faves Caledonia play The Seahorse Saturday night, or you could see Can-rock icon Gordie Johnson's current band Grady at the Coconut Grove. And to wrap up the weekend, there's a doozy of a show Sunday night at the Cohn, where troubadour extraordinaire Billy Bragg will play with opener The Mountains & The Trees (aka Newfoundland's Jon Janes, who has been getting some attention on the hill as of late).

So there you go, plenty to see, so get out and see something while the weather is still tolerable.

MP3:: Elliot Brood - Write It All Down For You

MP3:: The Deep Dark Woods - All The Money I Had Is Gone

MP3:: A History Of - Action In The North Atlantic

MP3:: The Mountain & The Trees - Up & Down

Labels: Billy Bragg, Deep Dark Woods, Elliott Brood, Friday Showstravaganza, Live, The Gideons

Traveling on the information superhighway, you are often forced to move at an autobahn worthy pace; hands gripping the wheel tight with eyes focused forward looking for potential pitfalls instead of enjoying the view. No matter how much you love a record, you need to find a new one for the next day or you have nothing to write about. Unfortunately, that means you almost never have the chance to reflect on what you see in the rear view or make a return trip to a town you wished you could have stayed in for a few extra days.

For me that town is Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, a town I'd never even heard of before August (when I read about this record) and will most likely never actually visit, but that doesn't mean I can't feel the warmth of the refurbished and reconstructed Opera House that Winnipeg treasure The Wailin' Jennys seem to call their home away from home.

Anyone ever lucky enough to see The Wailin' Jennys live knows the experience is one you hold tight, especially when you are consumed by floating three-part harmonies, violin work and spirituals. Obviously, it's no surprise that a perfect recording of one of their shows would be so powerful but I forgot how fantastic the girls (and Jeremy Penner of course) sound. Live at the Mauch Chunk Opera House was recorded in 2008 and for many fans, it was the first introduction to the newest member, Heather Masse. Unlike many live albums, it was also an introduction to a plethora of new songs.

The Jennys are one of those acts that appreciate the fact they get to sing for a living. You feel that joy on every track, along with a deep rooted respect for the artists whose songs they cover. Case in point, the wood block beat, hectic violin work and uplifting vocals they offer up on their take on the Lanois/Emmylou classic Deeper Well burns with an intensity that makes you think the band refuses to deliver anything less than their best effort while paying tribute to an artist that inspires them. The same can be said about Gershwin's Summertime, a track that's been covered to death, but sounds terrific when treated with respect by talented musicians.

But the Jennys are more than covers and revisits traditional spirituals. While their beautiful take on Jane Siberry's Calling All Angels or Gillian Welch's One More Dollar are amazing, the set sparkles with several original gems. The loneliness that you feel on the Masse penned Driving and the inspiration you grab from Moody's song for peace (One Voice) show that these talented females can and should be judged on their own merits.

The Wailin' Jennys rest on the more pop friendly, joy filled side of the Roots equation, but the talent they possess is really something. They remind us that life is worth living, and memories are worth saving. More importantly, they remind us that taking your foot off the gas is one of the best decisions you can make and the unexpected joy an unplanned stop can provide is one of life's best gifts.

MP3:: The Wailin' Jennys - Deeper Well
MYSPACE:: http://www.myspace.com/thewailinjennys
WEB:: http://www.thewailinjennys.com/

Labels: Canada, Live, Music, Reviews, The Wailin' Jennys

Well friends, HPX 09 came to an end, and due to our downright busy-ness, we could do the kind of day-by-day recaps we might have liked, but we did capture some of our classic grainy pics (now with 30% more grain, thanks iPhone!) and poorly recorded bootlegs, and so we wanted to share them.

The Ack called it prefectly this AM, as my brain is also "happily existing as musical oatmeal right now", and so there shant be a ton of verbiage here, just some sweet bullets and then the pics and songs. So, some brief HPX 09 highlights from the hill:

- As previously discussed, the herohill showcase was stellar from top to bottom, so thanks to the kind folks at HPX for having us back again

- Yukon Blonde were great: fun, polished set - they seem like they've been playing together for decades

- Dan Mangan's set was way too much fun. Arriving in town after battling the flu all week, the only thing warmer than Dan's temperature was the reception given to him by a packed Company House.

- Cadence Weapon joining Think About Life onstage for a communal version of Sweet Sixteen was pretty crazy, people were pretty hyped.

- Speaking of CW, he and his DJ and easily the most animated MC-DJ combo I've seen in a while - dude was leaving the turntables and busting out some k-razy dance-moves.

- We figured Timber Timbre in St. Matthew's church would be good, but his set, which was equal parts spooky and stirring, exceeded our expectations.

- Here's a hot tip: Oh No Forest Fires are fast & fun live. Oh, and Rajiv is a super-nice fella - but many of you already know this.

- Another nice fella? Ricardo from Old Folks Home who made hill history by asking to get a pic with us (first artist to do so, we were flattered)

- Best dance moves we saw? Perhaps Josh from Little Girls.

- ZEUS, the almighty ZEUS. Nuff said.

UPDATES FROM ACK:
- every band we saw was terrific, but the fest in general had some killer moments (ie - Jenn Grant acting out Ghostbusters????) so hats off to the organizers/bands/volunteers.

- kudos to Dan Mangan for playing "his hardest song" specifically for my wife. We were both happy you did that.

- Zeus. Honestly, not sure there is a better band in Canada right now. They are that good (plus they tear up that Genesis cover).

- The Got to Get Got + energy - burnt hair = a set that won over tons of people

MP3:: Dan Mangan - Sold (Live @ HPX 09)

MP3:: Dan Mangan - Robots (Live @ HPX 09)

MP3:: Timber Timbre - Demon Host (Live @ HPX 09)

MP3:: Yukon Blonde - Wind Blows (Live @ HPX 09)

MP3:: You Say Party! We Say Die! - Lonely's Lunch (Live @ HPX 09)

MP3:: You Say Party! We Say Die! - She's Spoken For (Live @ HPX 09)

Labels: Cadence Weapon, Dan Mangan, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Live, Zeus

Man, if I could count the times people have asked me to recommend a live, indie rock show here in Halifax that would get them dancing, I would end up with, like, a really high number. Well sir, if you were to ask me that question about this Saturday night, I'd have only one answer for you: The Paragon to help Rich Aucoin celebrate the limited single release of Brian Wilson is A.L.i.V.E.



Rich will be joined by Windom Earle, Century Club and Ryan Hemsworth, so it's an evening that's definitely worth your five bucks. It was last year around this time (during last year's HPX) that we first saw Rich perform Brian Wilson is A.L.i.V.E., and it prompted us to predict "Brian Wilson is Alive will be the best party track of the year released by any Haligonian band". Well thinking back to the crowd reaction (the guys from Ruby Coast were losing their minds), I still stand by that prediction, but we may have to wait until next year to see if it comes true.

But there's no need to wait if you're in Halifax, get down to the Paragon Saturday and score yourself one of those limited copies. Unless you've got tickets to Rich's sold out HPX show with Girl Talk, then this is your last chance to see him live in Halifax this fall. As a treat for you fine folks, Rich sent us a rough mix of Brian Wilson is A.L.i.V.E., so check that out below. But apparently the guy who's done mastering for Jusice, Air and Daft Punk is taking a crack at the song right now, so keep your ears open for that next year.

MP3:: Rich Aucoin - Brian Wilson is Alive
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/richaucoin

Labels: Halifax, Live, Rich Aucoin, The Paragon

If you're like me, you've probably spent the first part of this evening pondering the perfect combination for Share's next promo video for their excellent new album Slumping in Your Murals. If you guessed the following, you're a winner: Andrew Sisk, Jenn Grant, a bedroom, a serious moustache, a large novelty pencil, and guests from the UK. Anyway, as always, some insider commentary from Share frontman Andrew Sisk, and so without further ado:

Hanging out playing music. It's what we do. Our friends Lori and Roddy who appear in this video were visiting from the UK. They are sweethearts. Lori filmed Jenn and I playing and that is why Roddy is the guy on the bed. Friends are important. Jenn and I have been friends for a long time. I used to be her drummer. It was problematic cause we would laugh so much when we were supposed to be serious. Much like in this video.

Andrew

VIDEO:: Share - Maybe Always Live with Jenn Grant

MP3:: Share - Maybe Always f. Jenn Grant
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/andrewsisk

Labels: Jenn Grant, Live, Share, Video hits

The Halifax Pop Explosion recently announced the latest editions to this year's lineup, and so we wanted to make sure we passed the news on (another reminder that you can buy tickets here). I know the lineup is generating a lot of excitement here in Haltown already, but if you've been sitting where you are thinking about coming here for HPX, perhaps someone listed below can help push you over the edge. I mean Girl Talk, c'maaan guy, get your neon gear on and get amped! Just check the song below, dude mixes In A Big Country with Whoomp, There It Is! That's like two of my favorite jams of all time, and it's only the start of the song (jokes aside, I did have Big Country on vinyl in the 80's).

That's just the tip of the iceberg though, here's the full list of the latest additions:

Girl Talk www.myspace.com/girltalk
Owen www.myspace.com/mybandowen
Timber Timbre www.myspace.com/timbertimbre
Crystal Antlers www.myspace.com/crystalantlers
Bruce Peninsula www.myspace.com/brucepeninsula
Brian Borcherdt www.myspace.com/brianborcherdt
Red Mass www.myspace.com/redmassfce
Sprengjuhollin www.myspace.com/sprengjuhollin
Think About Life www.myspace.com/thinkaboutlife
Zeus www.myspace.com/themusicofzeus

The lineup just keeps getting better and better, and they are also managing to make sure they have a little something, no matter what your taste. The Ack is excited, as his post last weekend on Owen indicates, but with names like Timber Timbre, Bruce Peninsula, Crystal Antlers, Think About Life, and Zeus, he certainly isn't the only one. A lot of these shows are going to sell out too, so hit up www.ticketpro.ca and make sure you will be there.

MP3:: Owen - Good Friends, Bad Habits

MP3:: Girl Talk - Hands In The Air

MP3:: Bruce Peninsula - Crabapples

MP3:: Think About Life - Johanna

MP3:: Red Mass - Terrorizer

Labels: Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Live

This post right here is what we call in the biz a "twofer", as it kills two blogging birds with one stone (and yeah, I made that up, because that is likely the first time I've actually written the word "twofer"). It's main purpose is to remind folks that Josh Martinez is playing tonight at the Paragon Theatre, and ole Josh deserves a warm reception from his hometown, so if you're able to get out and see him, I recommend it.

The other purpose this post serves is to allow me to talk about The Chicharones and their Swine Country EP, which I'd meant to talk about at the same time that I reviewed Josh's last album, The World Famous Sex Buffet. The Chicharones are a duo comprised of one half Josh, and the other half being Portland MC Sleep. I'll admit I wasn't too familiar with Sleep, but he's well connected in the indie rap world (his last solo album was out on Strange Famous), and is a solid MC to boot. Together they make hip hop that is a little bit adventurous, funny, angry, and really quite good.

I believe a Swine Country full-length has been in the works for awhile, and could see the light of day before the end of the year, but this is a hefty EP, with an intro and seven full songs. They only needed one to hook me though, as the first one You Gotta Move, has everything I need. The beat is solid, and each verse starts with a little lyrical homage to a classic golden age song (Boomin' System, Children's Story, and Jump). As if that wasn't enough, the duo makes a sweet ref to a duo close to the hill's heart: "the Hall & Oates of this rap shit, we rock dance moves, people don't have that". You mention the H&O, we mention you. It's pretty simple.

What, you need to hear more about the Chicharones and this record? Well how about if I told you they also have a half-sung, doo-wopish song called Go Fuck Yourself? Apropos of nothing, Sleep sounds like an indie hip hop Lil' Fame on this song, and that is awesome. Also, how many hip hop albums do you know with a surf rock style jam called Taco Wagon on them? I thought so. Go see Josh tonight, and check out the Chicharones.

MP3:: The Chicharones - You gotta Move
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/thechicharones

VIDEO:: The Chicharones - Taco Wagon

Labels: Halifax, Josh Martinez, Live, The Chicharones

I'm sure everyone really loves hearing tremendously un-qualified ramblers such as myself discuss the artistic blood, sweat & tears of others at length, but in my opinion it's always far better to get insight on something direct from the artist. That's why we're pleased to bring you Share's breezy live performance video of KC from their new album, Slumping in Your Murals, along with an explanation of the clip from Share frontman Andrew Sisk. So without further ado:

I went to Shotgun Jimmies Farm in Sackville, NB for a visit. He is one of my favourite songwriters so I was really excited to record some demos with him and hang out. We recorded some demos and then recorded me playing KC in his back yard. Jimmie's back yard has a constant wind blowing through due to it being on the Marshlands that separate New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. It is a cantakerous grassy bit of land that stretches between the two Maritime provinces and is flat and wet from the constant draft coming in through the backdoor of the Bay of Fundy. Not too long ago, these wetlands were the only things separating the British Fort Lawrence and the French Fort Beausejour during that ongoing struggle for this part of the world. I wonder if the soldiers who had to guard those forts knew that these marshlands were a vital part of the natural ecosystem? I am going to take a guess and say no. I can only imagine that most of their conversations involved the constant, unending, persistent wind.

The song KC from our new album is about another, more modern, period of Atlantic domination.

Andrew

VIDEO:: Share - KC (Live in a field)

MP3:: Share - Maybe Always f. Jenn Grant
MYSPACE:: www.myspace.com/andrewsisk

Labels: Live, New Brunswick, Sackville, Share, Video hits

It struck me today that it was high time we got a post up for HPX '09, and when you consider that my first post for HPX '08 was a year ago today, my timing seems bang on. HPX is of course the Halifax Pop Explosion, certainly the indie event of the year for many in this city, and I don't think it's a stretch to say that since its inception 17 years ago, it has become one of the biggest music festivals of it's kind in Canada.

Well, now that I've broken out the hyperbole, can the '09 lineup back up my big talk? Well have a gander at some of the acts confirmed thus far and let me know:

MSTRKRFT www.myspace.com/mstrkrft
Mates of State www.myspace.com/matesofstate
Cadence Weapon www.myspace.com/cadenceweaponmusic
Jenn Grant www.myspace.com/jenngrant1
By Divine Right www.myspace.com/bydivineright
You Say Party, We Say Die www.myspace.com/yousaypartywesaydie
Two Hours Traffic www.myspace.com/twohourstraffic
D-Sisive www.myspace.com/dsisive
The Acorn www.myspace.com/theacorn
Final Fantasy www.myspace.com/ffinalffantasy
Japandroids www.myspace.com/japandroids
Julie Doiron & Herman Dune http://www.myspace.com/juliedoiron, www.myspace.com/therealhermandune
Ohbijou www.myspace.com/ohbijou

Well now, I don't think you can say that the festival doesn't already include some of the Canadian music scene's more buzzworthy names, and if past years are any indication, there's more where they came from. Final Fantasy is of course a previous Polaris Prize winner, and D-Sisive & Japandroids were in the long-list mix for this year's honour. By Divine Right, The Acorn, You Say Party, We Say Die, Two Hours Traffic & Ohbijou are hot tickets across the country, Julie Doiron is a legend out here (and other places), and Cadence Weapon is a Poet Laureate. Solid list in my opinion.

So, now that your interest is peaked, you need to know the ticket situation:

Early bird passes for the 2009 Halifax Pop Explosion are available until August 31. Prices are $80 for standard festival passes and $190 for VIP passes. Passes are available online at www.ticketpro.ca and in person at all Ticketpro outlets.

So get on those Early Bird passes, and also:

Tickets for the MSTRKRFT show go on sale Wednesday, August 12. Tickets are $30 in advance and $40 at the door. Tickets will be available online at www.ticketpro.ca and in person at all Ticketpro outlets.

Start getting excited. We are.

MP3:: Ohbijou - Black Ice

MP3:: D-Sisive - Four (Radio Edit)

MP3:: Japandroids - Young Hearts Spark Fire

MP3:: MSTRKRFT - Bounce (SONPUB Remix)

MP3:: Cadence Weapon - Sharks (with Final Fantasy)

Labels: Festival, Halifax Pop Explosion, HPX 09, Live

Well the last two weeks have seen Halifax abuzz with activity - shows from Paul McCartney and Kiss, along with the Atlantic Jazz fest had the city hoping, despite some less than stellar weather. And it's that suspect weather that may send folks in Halifax on the hunt for some indoor entertainment, so look no further, the hill's Halifax show rundown is here.

After talking about indoor entertainment, one of the weekend's biggest draws will likely be the Halifax Pride Festival Concert at the Garrison Grounds at the foot of Citadel hill. Local dance machines Ruby Jean & The Thoughtful Bees are opening for Toronto acts The Cliks and The Hidden Cameras, so by all accounts it should be a pretty impressive show. That isn't the only option for those looking to shake their bottom, as DJ Bones brings his world (or Maritime) famous Indie Pop Night back to Gus' on Friday night. Those looking for something more sedate have the Khyber as an option, as two of the finest hushed folk acts in the city, Ghost Bees and Fall Horsie headline a show there. Those preferring an evening of more straight ahead indie rock can check out shows headlined by Tomcat Combat and The Got To Get Got.

Plenty of options, so get out there and enjoy.

MP3:: Tomcat Combat - Action Doer

MP3:: The Got To Get Got - Rattle Off

MP3:: The Hidden Cameras - Walk On

MP3:: The Cliks - Cry Me A River

Labels: Friday Showstravaganza, Ghost Bees, Halifax, Hidden Cameras, Live, Pride Festival