Herohill

Reviews:: Ghettosocks - I Can Make Your Dog Famous

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 18:46:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, the Ack was courteous enough to ask me if there were any MC's we should include on our 10 east-coast artists to watch post. I said no, without even really thinking about it, because I haven't really been sent any new Halifax (or Maritime) hip hop in ages. But shortly after Ack put up his post, I realized that we stupidly missed a chance to big up one of the hill's favorite MC's: the Grand Wizzard Ghettosocks!

Seriously, if you aren't up on G-Socks, then you're missing out. I'm not sure how well-known he is amongst non-diehard hip hop heads outside Halifax (my guess: not very), but I think he's one of the best MC's our fine country has to offer right now - I'd easily put him in my current top five favorite Canadian MC's (which, because I think quite highly of my rap taste, is quite the compliment). It's no secret that I can be a bit of a shameless homer where Halifax music is concerned, but my hip hop zealotry will always prevent me from overhyping an MC or group that doesn't deserve it, so rest assured that this Ghettosocks recommendation is legit.

But I don't expect you to take my word for it, you can go right ahead and score yourself a copy of his recent mixtape I Can Make Your Dog Famous, which has recently been made available in downloadable format. Mixtapes for me are usually hit or miss, with generally more miss than hit, but I Can Make Your Dog Famous is a great listen. Wisely, socks recruited Halifax legend DJ Jorun to assist him with the mix, and this pays dividends in the form of Jo's expert cuts and production, but none of those annoying DJ shout outs that can make mixtapes painful to listen to.

Socks & Jo keep things flowing with a great mix of new beats and some recognizable ones, a couple guest appearances (another plus for this mixtape: not having 400 MC cameos), and a few skits thrown in for good measure (with kudos due for Socks and Jordan Croucher's R.Kelly impression proving the hip hop skit is not dead). Lyrics? Somebody want lyrics? Oh he's got those too - some of my favorites:

I even freestyled with Belly back in high school, only I turned out this way and he's a fly tool (Whatchuknowboutme?)

Stephen Harper's a cock, the park is a spot, a narc is a cop, to ark is to talk (Socks Ebonics)

Stephen Hawking when I'm rockin', cripple that science, using beats like a ski-slope, triple black diamond (Voltron Kicks)

That's the definition of funky loser, I used to give fashion tips to Punky Brewster (I Can Make Your Dog a Donut)

She's on the couch slouched over my boner, I'm gronin', watchin' House Party over her shoulder (Ballz In Yo Stomach)

Sweatbands like Rambo, sweatpants commando, Colt 45 in the hand like Lando, Calrissian (He's the DJ, I'm The Rapper 08)

Don't get burned, pay attention when Socks spit, the nicest rap kid to ride home on an ostrich (Cut You Baby)

You like those Skippy? I thought you might. Tight, boom-bap-influenced beats, a solid Rakim-inspired flow, and clever, often comedic lyrics that show a profound love and knowledge of hip hop make Ghettosocks Halifax's MC champ (the Coast says so, and considering they named this here site the 2nd best blog in Hali, they must have some idea of which they speak). In fact, Socks makes the kind of hip hop I would hope to make if I weren't just some chaunce with a blog, so don't delay, go ahead and let him make your dog famous. I doubt you'll regret it.

MP3::

Ghettosocks - Voltron Kicks (prod. DJ Premier)
Ghettosocks - I Can Make Your Dog a Donut (prod. Jorun)

Records We Missed:: Martha Wainwright I Know You're Married, But I've Got Feelings Too

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 15:38:00 +0000

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It’s almost impossible to talk about Martha Wainwright without mentioning her family and her past. Whether it’s her parents, extended family or her super talented brother, Martha’s career will always be judged against the catalog of her family tree. It’s a shame too, because I Know You're Married, But I've Got Feelings Too shows that she can stand on her own two feet, aptly balancing the heartache and power the title suggests with an elegant, gentle touch.

Martha possesses a beautiful voice, one that exudes strength but can be as subtle as a gentle breeze. On her new record, Wainwright proves how effortlessly she can power through complex (admittedly, sometimes a bit cluttered) arrangements or hold the spotlight on more straight ahead pop songs (You Cheated On Me) and moody, atmospheric tracks like Niger River, but that’s the tip of the iceberg. Martha proves she’s a perfectly capable composer and dominating front woman. Even with a celebrity cast of supporting players, Martha stands front and center, even as she bends and shapes her voice to fit countless different styles.

She also shows that she doesn’t need to dive into the past to find compelling subject matter. Instead of airing dirty laundry (although the heartbreak she delivers on Jimi when she admits, “sometimes I feel like my Dad, for leaving her all sad and alone” hits hard), she makes you sympathize for the most unlikely characters. She wrote 12 of the songs on the record, and the lyrics are almost as compelling as her voice.

Bleeding All Over You is a beautiful song, laced with strings, backing vocals and ear pleasing acoustic but it’s how Martha paints the "other woman" that is so compelling. Wainwright has the unique ability to turn a phrase without making it seem forced or rehearsed. The gentle sounds of Hearts Club Band provide the perfect backdrop for her pen, as the four-minute track forces you to lean closer and listen intently as you try to absorb her words.

This record has been out for the better part of the year, and I feel bad for missing it. Thankfully, the rest of the music world has embraced her talent long before we did.

MP3::

Martha Wainwright - You Cheated Me

Records We Missed:: Jill Barber Chances

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 19:30:00 +0000

web site

It's getting close to the end of the year, which means lists. Lots and lots of lists. I've been cobbling together mine and have a pretty good idea who's in and who's out, but we always miss some great albums. So, in an attempt to right those wrongs, over the next week or so we are trying to get up to speed on some hidden gems.

I know Shane mentioned the talented Jill Barber only a week ago, but Chances really deserves a bit more attention. Somehow I thought we had already reviewed the disc, but even more importantly, somehow I thought I had given Chances a quality listen. As it turns out... I was wrong on both counts.

The appropriately titled Chances shows Barber taking a huge risk. Instead of her more rootsy/singer songwriter efforts of the past, Jill transforms herself into a 50's era jazz singer, one capable of leading big band arrangements or nuzzling up beside a solitary piano player. She challenges her songwriting by collaborating with talented people (Ron Sexsmith, The Sojourners) and succeeds on every level.

Almost to a review, people talk about the timeless quality of Jill voice, but in my opinion the best compliment you can give her is how authentic her voice sounds. We've all heard piano bar singers attempting to take us back to the greats, but instead of hoping to channel Ella, Barber lets her own style be an important ingredient in the recipe and as a result, you never question her integrity or ability to deliver this kind of material. She manages to sound like a seasoned pro from an era long since passed, but never sounds dated.

Her vulnerability and compassion on tracks like Take It Off Your Mind mixes with cinematic strings to make the songs seem even more grandiose and tender. Even when she changes pace, like she does with the mountain folk stomp intro of Oh My My, the cohesive feel is never lost. It might seem obvious, but adding with the percussion, horns and suprising jazz flute that shows up to end the song or the string sections that balance the beautiful, soul-filled harmonies of Never Quit Loving You completely make the songs work.

With all the classic elements - the xylophone on the fantastic duet with Sexsmith (Old Flame), the strings and harmonies on Leaving You or the horn work and melody on the instant classic Be My Man, even the jazz classic LP feel of the cover art - Chances could be mistaken for a jazz standard on a casual listen, but the more you listen the more you are won over by Jill's emotion. She seems so comfortable singing beautiful, end of the night numbers like One More Time, you wonder where she's been hiding this talent over the years.

Normally, this type of music hovers in the background of a lazy Sunday or a intimate gathering, but Chances grabs the spotlight, even without trying. Looks like both Barber siblings might be gracing our Best-of list this year.

MP3::

Jill Barber - Oh My My
Special treat courtesy of b(oot)log. A terrific cover of Jill's all-time favorite song Moon River.

Quick hitters:: IDOW - Gypsophilia

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:30:00 +0000

<--- this could be you :: web site

The lineup for the 2nd Annual In the Dead of Winter festival was announced, and while there are some huge names (Daniel Ledwell, Justin Rutledge and Julie Holland on the same bill?!), one local act that might be new to a lot of music fans is Gypsophilia. With so much talent to choose from, you might be tempted to pass on the band with the funny name, but at the end of the day it's their set that might be the best the festival has to offer.

The band, originally, was influenced by the great French jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt but have expanded their sonic palette to include countless genres and throw in enough heavy bopping for even Lynne Thigpen to get behind. It's not too often a New Orleans dance party heads this far North, but Gypsophila is renowned for their ability to get the old and young to shake their money makers.

I know Saturday Night has a lot of great acts competing for your dollars, but with Norma Macdonald, Catherine MacLellan and Christina Couture opening up for a destined to happen, dancing in the aisles affair, The Bus Stop Theatre might be a better option than Buck 65, our personal favs The Olympic Symphonium or the talented Rebekah Higgs.

Here are a couple of tracks from their last record – Minor Hope – to give you an idea of the goodness that will occur.

MP3::

Gypsophilia – Gyre
Gypsophilia - HIV Jump

Old School Mondays:: R.I.P. MC Breed Edition

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 21:00:00 +0000

Because we try to derive the content for Old School Mondays here on the hill from something that comes up the previous week, there are few guaranteed ways to predict when a particular artist or group will get covered. Unfortunately, one of ways to do it is to die, and this is the sad circumstance which we find ourselves discussing the best rapper to ever come out of Flint, Michigan: Eric (MC) Breed.

I posted Breed's classic breakthrough Ain't No Future In Yo Frontin' in the summer as a accompaniment to an Awesome Dre riff, but I didn't stop to think how many Breed albums I actually owned. I have at least two (20 Below and Funkdified) and perhaps another (The New Breed), so there was more Breed in my past than I recalled. I'm not sure most people look back at Breed as a major player during hip hop's Golden Age, but I think he certainly had a big impact. For starters, I think he was the first guy from Michigan to make national noise, so without him I'm not sure we'd have seen those that followed (Eminem, Dilla & Slum Village, Royce, Black Milk, etc & so on).

But more than that, he was one of the first guys not from NY or LA that I remember having a big song (like Mix-A-Lot on the West Coast), and that showed folks that hip hop was being done well in all corners of the US (and continent, it was being done well in Canada too!). Anyway, I think there's plenty of people that had fond memories of his music when they heard he passed a couple weeks ago, so let's give a hearty herohill big up to Breed and celebrate his memory with a few of the better jams from his first four albums.

MP3::

MC Breed - Ain't No Future In Yo' Frontin
MC Breed - Gotta Get Mine
MC Breed - Ain't Too Much Worried
MC Breed - Late Nite Creep (Booty Call)
MC Breed - Real MC

Video::

MC Breed - Ain't No Future In Yo Frontin

MC Breed - Gotta Get Mine f. 2Pac

Reviews:: Ruby Jean & The Thoughtful Bees

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 19:13:00 +0000

myspace

It's hard not to stare. She's the best looking girl in the bar, dressed to the nines and part of you wonders why she's even here, trapped amongst the plaid shirts and scruff. But then the music starts and she’s in front of the speakers dancing without any regard for who's around her and that unabashed freedom and originality is the feeling you get as soon as Ruby Jean & the Thoughtful Bees start playing.

It’s not surprising I guess; the dirty electro quartet is made up of regulars from the Halifax music scene, all of whom know what performing is all about. The programming and synths – which makes up the foundation of the songs – comes courtesy of Colin Crowell and is filled in nicely with Sean MacGillivray’s drumming and Jason Vautour’s guitar. The guitar blasts and heavy drums really give life to Crowell's beats and helps transform RJATTB from a MSTRKRFT-esque experience into an organic, breathing experience. Throw in the swirling vocals from Halifax song writer Rebekah Higgs – no stranger to vocal looping and subtle electronics herself – and you start to see why Ruby Jean & the Thoughtful Bees is ready to be something bigger than just "another electronic act or yet another Bees band from Halifax."

Without a doubt, the self-titled debut is certain to be a regular on playlists at any indie dance night (Bones, I’m assuming you already play these jams), but like I said, it’s more than just club bangers. Sure the beat clap of and synths of A Thoughtful Letter and the driving beat of You Don’t Miss Me are terrific, but it’s moments like when Higg’s vocals swirl around the rapid fire beats of Trustfund, the down tempo flow of Not About To or the subtle guitar pick that opens up the unique twist on the Paula Abdul classic, Cold Hearted that you start to realize how well thought out these tracks are. Higgs is enough of a personality to stand out from the mix, but seasoned enough to not overshadow the recipe Crowell, MacGillivray and Vatour craft.

Not to get all Footloose on you, but times are hard on the boulevard these days and more hangdog tracks of shit not working out just isn’t always the answer. Hearing RJATTB boom out of your headphones is just the thing to give you some pep in your step or jump start your evening when the temperatures start to plummet.

MP3::

Ruby Jean & The Thoughtful Bees – You Don’t Miss Me
Ruby Jean & The Thoughtful Bees – Cold Hearted

Reviews:: (weewerk) is 6!

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 13:30:00 +0000

(weewerk) website

Over the last few years, we've talked nonstop about the great releases coming out on (weewerk). After covering artists like The Burning Hell, Great Lake Swimmers, Two Minute Miracles, The FemBots, The UnSettlers, The United Steel Workers of Montreal and Don Brownrigg, you might assume we've covered all of the acts you need to know in the (weework) family. In all honesty, I did, and that's why I waited so long to review this terrific collection of songs.

The new birthday sampler - (weewerk) is 6! - is not only filled with unreleased tracks from the big name artists on the label, but it's also chock o block full of talent we've yet to hear like Ox, Julie Fader and H-Burns. So instead of going on and on (to the break of dawn), I'm going to kind of do a track by track talking points style summation.

Great Lake Swimmers - Song for the Angels. This was originally put out on a nice slab of vinyl. Tony Dekker's voice and style is so recognizable that you feel like it's a track you've heard 100s of times halfway through the first listen, but the gentle acoustic mixes with the subtle distortion and noise in the back to create another gem from the bound. His voice pierces through the muted sounds like a siren and warms the spare effort nicely.

Two-Minute Miracles - The First Thing I Hear Upon Waking. Andy is the king. The childlike whimsy of the loose strung acoustic chords make it hard not to love this song. "God made the octopus, with arms enough for both of us."

The United Steel Workers of Montreal - For Love and Your Mothers Sake. I love the way they give bluegrass an urban like sprawl and grit, and honestly, Felicity's vocals are always welcome.

Don Brownrigg - These AM Times. The moody tones that Don delivers on this track are a perfect example as to why he seems to be a weekly topic on the hill. I've actually never seen him live, but with the cancellation of the Olympic Symphonium CD release show, I'm hoping the new date gives me the chance. These AM Times comes from his (weekwerk) release, Wander Songs (that Shane reviewed here).

The Burning Hell - I Love the Things That People Make. I love the things Mathius Kom makes. Enough said.

Jenny Omnichord - Buildings. Really, it's hard to describe Ms. Omnichord. She was able to rock out a set here @ Gus' Pub when she was about 16 months pregnant and still hit the crowd with simple, fun beats and catchy vocals. Buildings is an album track, but chances are you've probably never heard it or her. Take a listen, please.

The Travelling Band - Sweet City. This band is new to me, and based in Manchester, England. Right away, I want to hear more from the band. Sweet City starts as a slow burning acoustic track, but they add the perfect amount of electric jangle to thicken it up. The beautiful harmonies don't hurt the melancholy that runs through the sad break up track and when the drums kick in and spike the pace... well, you are left with a track that you can't stop listening too. I started singing along before I even knew the words.

Proof of Ghosts - Wandering Stars. This Toronto band seems to have been unearthed from a time capsule. That is meant in an extremely good way.

The FemBots - In the Red. This song debuted on a really cool blog.

Audiotransparent - You are a Movie (ft. Tony Dekker). This band was new to me, as I'm not really up to speed on my Netherland alt-country, post rock style rock acts. That being said, I wish I was. This track hits like a beautiful ton of bricks.

Great Lake Swimmers - Hands in the Dirty Ground. See above description of Great Lake Swimmers, but add even more energy.

Julie Fader - 723 (ft. Tony Dekker). Julie was one of the acts I was super upset to miss at HPX. She played in the tiny confines of the Music Room which is a perfect setting for her dark, wintery tunes. Her voice is crystalline, like ice forming on the corners of your windows, and just as intricate and appealing as the resulting patterns. Amazingly, she gets vocal help from Dekker, but is still able to stand out in front.

H-Burns - Horses With No Medals. Is there anything better than a song that is so great it makes you want to pick up your guitar and learn the chords immediately? I'm not sure if this France based band makes it over to Canada often, but I hope they do.

Ox - Burn Out. A down and out roots anthem. Depressing enough to drive you drink, but delicate enough to make you wish you could express your thoughts like this Sudbury artist.

Canteen Knockout - We Work. Country fused track from the bands (weewerk) debut, Navajo Steel. Not only is that name an awesome moniker for an adult film star, the harmonica they toss in halfway through this track fits like a glove.

The UnSettlers - No No No Yes. We've gushed about this track and this band enough already I think.

The Barmitzvah Brothers - Trailblazer. I used to have a shirt that said, "I Got Schlitzed at Susie's Batmitzvah." It was awesome, but still falls short of this band.

Wow... 23 tracks. This post is getting long.

Harmonica - Friday Night. Shane once got pulled into the drug room at a Norweigan airport thanks to all the second hand smoke his Otto-like jacket sucked in at a Gorillaz show in Toronto before he went n a business trip. Up until hearing this track, that was the only Norweigan talking point I had. So kudos Harmonica, oh, and kudos on the catchy acoustic riff and sensational female vocals you wrote as well.

Two-Minute Miracles - Cojoined. This actually might be my favorite track on the sampler.

Susie Asado - This is My Address. I know nothing about this Berlin outfit, but the spare, female led track seems very German to me. I'm not 100% sure what that even means, but I'm running out of creative things to say. The compilation has far too many ups and no downs so the constant praise gets repetitive.

The United Steel Workers of Montreal - Imaginary Bars (ft. Tony Dekker). This is a real treat. The Steel Workers completely transform the Great Lake Swimmers track into something completely different, but equally beautiful. A couple of well placed oohs from Tony are all that accompany the bluegrass picking, but for some reason I can't get enough of this little ditty. This sampler would be worth your cash for this song alone.

Vincent - The Wind. Would you expect an Irish sounding bar room number to come from a Quebec based artist? Well, now you do. Side note, I was sort of hoping this was a cover of my favorite Cat Stevens track, but that's just me.

Great Lake Swimmers - Gonna Make it Through This Year. The band gave this track to a Toys for Tots record. Seems right to talk about that as people trample themselves to get a good deal at Walmart and forget what the holidays are actually about (watching Muppets Christmas Carol or Christmas Vacation with a couple of beverages - I keed I keed).

MP3::

H-Burns - Horses With No Medals
Ox - Burn Out
The FemBots - In the Red

Reviews:: The Gunshy I Gave Too Much Time To The Wine

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 14:03:00 +0000

web site

It’s very rare you get to see a career arc unfold in front of you… well, in one release. Thanks to the good people over at Yerbird records, you can now get a collection of new songs (I Gave Too Much Time To The Wine) from The Gunshy and remastered versions of some early work on one disc for a mere $12. Now that is something to be thankful about!

You see, The Gunshy (AKA - Matt Arbogast and a few scattered friends), has slowly evolved from an emotional, stripped down solo act into a full band affair, laced with horns and strings but throughout the transformation one thing has remained constant: Matt’s ability to tell a story. Without his raspy voice and stirring narratives the transition from a spoken word pieces to horns, strings and female vocals that beef up Days of Darling and One For The Beasts would leave the listener struggling for steady footing. Instead, you just feel like you are getting to see exactly what makes Adam’s heart tick and what drives him creatively.

And to be fair, critics have never questioned his creativity, (especially after writing tracks from the scattered letters his grandfather sent in WW2), but more importantly, no one has ever challenged his honesty. He’s open about his insecurity as a musician and harbors an unhealthy obsession about how his work is judged. With the constant comparisons to how he sounds like Tom Waits instead of people focusing on what he has to say or playing to empty venues, Adam openly struggles to put it all behind him. He fixation on the negatives gives the impression that his music is killing him slowly, but somehow it's the only thing that keeps him breathing.

Make no mistake, this isn't a greatest hits collection. I Gave Too Much Time To The Wine is a unique collection that lets fans look back to the past, while Adam focuses on the future. On a casual listen, the results might polarize long time fans of The Gunshy that pine for the days when Adam stood alone with his guitar (like the beautiful For Julia or I Haven’t Been Drinking For You). but for me his ability to thicken up his sounds without losing the purity of his soul is just as impressive. And for the unlucky masses that have never heard his work, this collection of EPs is a great way to get introduced.

MP3::

The Gunshy - I Won't Forget It
The Gunshy - The Darling Days
The Gunshy - I've Got To Get Out of PA

Quick Hitters:: The Danks

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:11:00 +0000

Ok, if you're in Canada like us, you're thinking "I've made it past Wednesday, all I need now is something to bridge the gap until the weekend". If you're one of our American friends you are thinking "Mmmm turkey...Obama...USA best again...". If you are Norwegian you are thinking "God damn, open faced sandwiches are the best!". Or so I assume. Anyway, if you are someone looking for something to get you to the weekend, we have it for you in the form of peppy Prince Edward Islanders The Danks.

This island-bred foursome has concocted a formula that, like the red soil from their home province - which shows up in the crevices of your car months after you leave, stays with you. The formula would appear to be equal parts enthusiasm, Two Hours Traffic-like melodies, and the downright indie-danceability of acts like The Coast, Ruby Coast, or any other coast-related band from Ontario that is currently making the kids cut a rug. The THT similarities are no surprise, given that both bands not only hail from PEI, but two of the Danks, Alec O’Hanley and Andrew MacDonald, also happen to be members of THT.

The Danks are planning to release an album early next year, but in the interim they've released Samples, a seven song EP designed to simultaneously introduce themselves and do some whistle-wetting for their next release. They certainly succeed on both counts. I'm fairly certain you'll find yourself nodding along from the opening trap-kicks and riffs of Treaty Connector, through an all-to-brief fifteen minutes and change, to the melodic acoustics of I Mean, Come On. I mean, come on (sorry!), if the drum-thump and handclap combo on Sold Me Out doesn't get you moving, it might be time for the patented Herohill Pulse Check™. And are those horns I hear at the end of I Got Nothing? Yes? I approve of that.

It's likely that The Danks are currently the least-known of the bands in the recently formed Collagen Rock label/posse (THT, Mardeen, Smothered In Hugs), but if their full-length turns out to be as consistently solid as Samples, that is sure to change. So go ahead and have a taste, why not get in on the ground floor?

MP3::

The Danks - Treaty Connector
The Danks - I Mean, Come On

Reviews:: The Maynards Date and Destroy + CONTEST

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 13:21:00 +0000

web site :: myspace

*** Update ***
We have two passes + two discs to giveaway courtesy of Pigeon Row PR. Just drop us an email or leave a comment with your email address and you can dance your pants off with the Maynards free of charge.

Cultural institutions in Halifax are few and far between. Despite the slow moving pace of the city, very few things actually remain in the favor of the masses. The Chickenburger? They changed the recipe and the quality is slipping. Pizza corner? Well, chances are you might get punched in the face before you even get to bite into your donair. Even the Farmer’s Market is moving to a new building away from the downtown.

Things are not much better musically. Venues seem to close daily and any band that attracts positive press outside of the city normally gets dismissed by the local scene. On the flip side, bands from out of town are finding more and more reasons to not make the 12-hour trek from Montreal.

But at the end of the day, thankfully, we all still have the Maynards.

It’s been three years since their last record and like the band, we’ve all got older and probably had our hearts ripped apart, but the Halifax trio is determined to make us dance around even when we don’t want to get off the couch. The songs are a perfect combination of staccato guitar notes, truncated chords, cymbal crashes and bass fill that keep you smiling even with the heartbreaking subject matter.

If I had to describe the band in one word, it would be lust. The songs are quick, hot and sweat inducing (almost every song comes in under two-minutes) and even though you know it's going to end with you holding what's left of your heart, you just don't care. The white-hot passion is worth the inevitable pain. Whether it’s the sing shout vocals of Art Attack, the Heath Matheson driven, cold war, spy theme In the City or the terrific, Mutant Pop style punk/garage rock (think Egghead if they had two female singers), it’s almost impossible to sit still when the band starts pummeling your senses.

Date and Destroy was years in the making and even though Heath, Kristina and Chantal still love science-fiction, seem to prefer the sour to the sweet and believe the never ending cycle of “dating, mating, separating” is still the preferred path, the record shows a change in the song writing and vocal responsibilities. Their voices bob and weave around each other instead of letting one person take the lead. While it might seem like a small detail, it gives these lo-fi recordings some depth and really keeps the record exciting. Honestly, I’m not sure you will find a more fun release coming out of Halifax this year.

MP3::

The Maynards – Spinny
The Maynards – Art Attack

But as they say, the proof is in the pudding. On Dec 5th, The Maynards are sharing the stage at Gus' Pub with The Stolen Minks, Soaking up Jagged and Albertasaurus to celebrate the release of Date and Destroy. Rumour has it that Heath is going all Bob Barker and giving away a car to the best dancer. Who doesn't want a free '83 Civic?

Quick Hitters:: Jill Barber

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 19:36:00 +0000

I've written things to this effect before, but it's time to come out and say it: Our town has more talented female singer/songwriters per capita than yours. There it is, I've put it out there. I know what you're thinking "preposterous, my town has plenty of telented female singer/songwriters!", and that may be true, but sorry friend. Per capita, Halifax just has more, and that's a fact. According to me. Don't make me break out my beakers and chalkboard equations to prove it, because I will.

Bluster aside, I do have proof: Rose Cousins, Jenn Grant, Rebekah Higgs, Cristina Martin, Meaghan Smith, Amelia Curran, Erin Costelo, Tanya Davis, and Ruth Minnikin are but a few of the talented ladies making waves both here in Halifax and across the country. You'll notice the list doesn't even include Jill Barber, and that's because Jill moved to Vancouver earlier this year. For love of all things! Really, how is love going to keep the creative juices flowing like our ice cold ocean and precipitation-filled weather forecasts can? Oh wait...

Anyway, Jill's new album, Chances, is earning plaudits left right and centre, and who are we to deny her some hill-based plaudits just because she left our fair city? Like so many Ultimate obsessed frosh from her native Upper Canada, she was here for a but a brief moment, we had no right to expect her to stay forever.

Anyway, we're getting a little misty-eyed here and perhaps embarrassing ourselves, but it's nothing a little sampling of Jill's timeless, smokey vocals can't fix. And I do mean smokey - that term is likely over used these days where female singers are concerned, but it is absolutely bang-on where Jill Barber is concerned.

So have a listen to Oh My My from Chances, and check for Jill if she's visiting your town (or continent, Australia, you lucky devils).

MP3::

Jill Barber - Oh My My

December 18th, 2008 - New South Wales, AUS - The Basement
December 19th, 2008 - Bulli, AUS - The Heritage Hotel
December 20th, 2008 - Cronulla, AUS - The Brass Monkey
December 26th, 2008 - Queensland, AUS - The Woodford Folk Festival
December 31st, 2008 - Glenworth Valley, AUS - Peat's Ridge Festival
January 4th, 2009 - Bulli, AUS - The Heritage Hotel
January 5th, 2009 - Newtown, NSW, AUS - The Vanguard
January 7th, 2009 - Kincumber, NSW, AUS - Lizotte's
January 8th, 2009 - Brisbane, QLD, AUS - The Troubadour
January 9th, 2009 - Adelaide, SA, AUS - Jive
January 10th, 2009 - Victoria, AUS - East Brunswick Club
January 11th, 2009 - Hobarts, TAS - The Republic Bar
January 14th, 2009 - Newtown, NSW, AUS - The Vanguard
January 15th, 2009 - Cronulla, NSW, AUS - The Brass Monkey
February 12th, 2009 - Belleville, ON - The Empire Theatre
February 13th, 2009 - Peterborough, ON - Showplace Theatre Lounge
February 14th, 2009 - Kingston, ON - The Grand Theatre
February 15th, 2009 - Montreal, QC - Petit Campus
February 18th, 2009 - Toronto, ON - First Canadian Place
February 19th, 2009 - Wakefield, QC - The Blacksheep Inn
February 20th, 2009 - Wakefield, QC - The Blacksheep Inn
February 21st, 2009 - Toronto, ON - Diesel Playhouse
February 26th, 2009 - Kitchener, ON - Centre In The Square
February 27th, 2009 - Hamilton, ON - Hamilton Place Theatre

Reviews:: The Speaking Tongues Wild Sound

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:11:00 +0000

web site :: myspace :: facebook

Hell yeah. That’s all I really need to say about Toronto’s The Speaking Tongues. The hill likes to keep it Canadian, but I’m always super excited when anything from Alive/Naturalsounds or Fat Possum shows up in the old mailbox. While Canada brings the folk, rock and electro for your auditory pleasure, we don’t really have a big collection of sludgy, boogie-woogie, balls-to-the-wall garage/blues acts (Pack AD, please ignore the previous statement) and normally I fill that void with classic artists or by reading ninebullets.net.

So finding out about a solid two-man duo from North of the border is a nice surprise. Chances are you haven’t heard of The Speaking Tongues (and that my e-friend is a shame), but to be honest, that’s not overly surprising. They are a DIY two-piece and their debut release – Wild Sound – is a self released long player that was limited to 200 copies. Take out the number they had to give to friends, radio and ~~critics~~ bloggers and there are probably less than 100 in circulation.

So, if you want some advice…. order that shit now. From the opening seconds of Wild Sound, you get what Pete and Aaron are about. Huge guitar riffs and crashing cymbals explode out of your speakers as the duo constantly jumps back and forth across the line that separates swampy blues and Detroit garage rock. Holier than thou blues fans would be best served staying away, because The Speaking Tongues really aren't trying to keep it clean. They like it loud, fast and rough. Obviously fans of Black Diamond Heavies or RL will approve of these guys, but The Speaking Tongues are trying some new stuff that helps them stand out.

Dont' get me wrong, they still pay tribute to the past as they sloppily mix in traditional elements (meant as a compliment). The harmonica on Tune Up and the frantic slide work on She Just Don’t Care are pretty sweet, but it’s the tracks that jump out of the past that really smack you in the mouth. Woe is Me gets your feet stomping, but it’s the feedback and energy that surges from the guitar that makes you think of denim and leather instead of gumbo and whiskey bottles. Wake Up is a sweaty jam session explosion that is as much punk rawk as it is blues, but the Motor City energy and ripped raw vocals help keep the listener entrenched in the record.

I know that most people don’t care about this kind of music, but in my humble opinion, this band from TO is doing everything right. Wild Sound is raw and rugged and as honest and pure as any disc you will find out there right now. I can only imagine what the duo brings to the table live – note to the band, "Halifax aint that far a drive" – but if you leave one of there shows and you aren’t covered in sweat and half cut from shots, well, I am not sure why you bothered getting off the couch.

MP3::

The Speaking Tongues - She Just Don't Care
The Speaking Tongues - Run To My Door

Quick Hitters:: Louwop's Great Escape

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 19:07:00 +0000

The hip hop biz, especially in Canada, doesn't seem like the most rewarding or fulfilling line of work. Well, that's assuming you're even one of the handful of folks in this country that make hip hop for a living. For the rest, it's a hobby, a labour of love. An endeavour undertaken because the beats and rhymes that hypnotized you as a youth still retain their hold. Believe me, I understand it - albeit to a lesser extent. I mean there's no logical reason that a 33 year old man should still have a stash of 300-some rap tapes in his basement. But I do.

The point I'm taking an unnecessarily long time to make here is that putting out hip hop albums is hard. The rap people like, and buy, right now is mostly kind of awful. The "smart" people you would like to peddle your rap wares to are too busy mumbling "hip hop is dead" to realize that you actually have a really good album on your hands. So it isn't surprising when someone like Toronto's Louwop decides that making music isn't worth his time anymore. It's a shame, but it isn't surprising.

I'm not in the best position to preach, as I hadn't heard of Louwop until he sent us his debut, The Spic Who Sat By The Door, but I was happy to remedy that by posting on his album. I was a big fan of it, so I was sad to hear that Lou is hanging up his mic. It's not all doom and gloom though, as he's leaving us with a fine farewell: The Great Escape. If you enjoy smart, soulful hip hop that hearkens back to that Native Tongue essence we're all missing today, you should give this a listen.

Seriously, the Great Escape has the elements one should look for in a good, modern hip hop album. The production is thick and jazzy, it never leaves you wanting. Louwop is also able to mix his song style, classic bangers like Journey, One 2 Check (which features hill favorite Shad), and Yes Y'All are mixed with soulful efforts like Stay Building and For The Love, but nothing sounds forced. And there's substance to the songs, which is refreshing.

But I'm going to leave it right there, wish Lou good luck in his future endeavours, and encourage you fine folks to buy The Great Escape. Who knows, perhaps it'll convince him to turn it into a Jigga retirement and we'll get more music from him. Either way, you'll have yourself a fine album.

MP3::

Louwop - Journey f. Roach Uno & Theo 3
Louwop - Good Bye

Contest:: Franz Ferdinand @ Lee’s Palace - December 4/08

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:37:00 +0000

I guess the title says it all. Thanks to the good people @ Groundworks Lifestyle Marketing/ Sony BMG, herohill has two tickets for the Lee's Palace date of the Franz Ferdinand "Club Show" tour. Seriously, the chance to see this seasoned outfit move from huge venues to the tiny stage at Lee's is probably well worth filling out a comment or dropping us an email [herohill AT gmail DOT com] with "Franz" in the subject line.

*** The contest closes on November 28th/08, so get those entries crack-a-lacking folks ***

They are doing a few shows to get ready for the release of their new record Tonight: Franz Ferdinand, and Lee's sold out quicker than so good luck folks. You can stream the new single - Ulysses - on their myspace or find it somewhere online if you are tech savvy.

Here's a sneak preview of a song you may or may not hear at the show:

MP3::

Franz Ferdinand - What You Waiting For (Gwen Stefani with Billy Idol lyrics)

Quick hitters:: The Gideons Hymns for Hers

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:03:00 +0000

myspace

It’s not very often I am so on the fence about a record. Usually after a few listens I either hit eject and toss the record in the trash or happily add it to the regular rotation and cobble together some words for herohill. The weird thing is, when it comes to The Gideons new record, Hymns for Hers, at times I want to do both. As soon as I get ready to dismiss the record, something grabs me (Settle for You) but as soon as I am ready to just sit back and enjoy the songs, something just hits me the wrong way (Lets Get Married).

While that might not be the ringing endorsement a band hopes for (especially when the record has a few tracks standout tracks that show why The Gideons are on countless bills here in the Fax), it’s as honest as I can be. One listen to the acoustic heavy stomp fest, Count st. Germaine, should be enough to get you in The Gideons corner. The band combines 50’s harmonies, flourishes of electric guitar, keys and just enough twang in a way that shows a maturity and pop sensibility most garage bands don’t offer. The psychedelics that dominate Write as Rain offer another possible direction for the Haligonian outfit to consider and the surf guitar that pushes along the album closer (Let You Go), warms the listen and as they transition into the frantic guitar outro it’s the perfect finish for the record.

But at their core, The Gideons are a unique combination of garage riffs and rough harmonies and really you either like it or you don’t. Tracks like Steal That Girl add just enough of an edge to the box social to help the track stand out, whereas Pockets Full of Love shows that the band is still young and growing. They are able to dabble in the sounds of the Velvets (Get on the Floor), without being overwhelmed and the backing vocals they throw in show they are quite willing to take some chances with their songs.

So basically, if you told me you love The Gideons I could see why and support your decision, but somehow I think if you told me you thought they were trash, I’d have trouble proving you wrong. Really, I think almost anyone can find a song or two on Hymns for Hers to get down with and even if you are undecided, when they get the balloons and riffs going live, these guys are something not to be missed.

MP3::

The Gideons - Let You Go
The Gideons - Steal that Girl

Quick hitters:: Kate Rogers Band Beauregard

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:38:00 +0000

web site :: myspace

Sometimes when you are stuck in airports watching time pass too slowly, and people move too quickly, whatever music you have playing gets lost somewhere between the stagnancy and constant motion. I spent the better part of my quick vacation sitting at gates, watching time crawl by and the stack of promos I loaded onto the ~~IPOD~~ Zune didn’t help the lethargy.

But on one of my flights yesterday, I gave Kate Roger’s new record, Beauregard, an extended, focused listen and was duly impressed. She’s been doing well in Europe, but this Toronto based singer really has the chance to make a splash here on her home turf. The arrangements bounce from folk to jazz to roots and the range of sounds is impressive, but no matter what the melody, it’s her folksy voice that booms over top and makes it hard to focus on anything else.

I realize that is something that can be said about tons of artists attempting to hit the same market, but Rogers brings something unique to the equation: energy. With the help of Chris Stringer’s production, the tracks are infused with the spikes you’d expect hearing his resume (he helped the D’Ubervilles and the Coast really deliver big records as well). She doesn’t want to be the warm sweater or trusty blanket you reach for out of habit. Kate wants to challenge and surprise the listener.

And that’s just it.

Too often we let things blend into the beige and forget that music should energize us. I’m not trying to make Rogers into something she’s not. She’s got a beautiful voice, one that fans of folk pop or the soundtrack to Grey’s Anatomy will really enjoy (as Lying Loveless and the playful horns and choir vocals on Go proves), but the static that runs through Wowbox, the warble filled Whippets and the hints of rock and reggae on Safety Net she shows that there is more to her sound than you’d expect. She offers up a more realistic perspective – like when she hits back on a lover ("you’re so fucking miserable") – and even when the record stumbles, you still want to hear what comes next.

MP3::

Kate Rogers Band – 54 Rounds
Kate Rogers Band – Lying Loveless

Old School Mondays:: Naughty By Nature & The Beatnuts

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:27:00 +0000

You are no doubt wondering what these unlikely OSM bedfellows have in common, but it`s quite simple: Naughty By Nature played in Halifax last week, and the Beatnuts play the Marquee here in Halifax this Friday night. Certainly a couple of classic acts to add to the impressive list of hip hop luminaries that have played Halifax over the last year or so, and two fitting acts for OSM.

Of the two, I was on the Beatnuts bandwagon for much longer, but you cannot front on Naughty. They were incredibly popular with white people much wankier than myself, and the assistant coach of our High School hoops squad, one Jeff "OPP" Paris. That tended to mean that zealots like myself stopped checking for them a little bit. That being said, they were really solid, and I have at least their first 2 albums on cassette. Even though they did anthems, those anthems were still kind of done the "right way", with no reliance on cheap R&B hooks and that kind of thing.

Plus Treach possessed one of the all time best combinations of killer speed flow and (at times) nonsensically awesome lyrics. Oh, and he wore a big chain. Literally a big steel chain, so he was rugged. Add in Kay Gee's super catchy production, and Vinny being the New Jersey version of Phife. Added up, you've got a solid squad. I bet you thought you'd be getting some OPP-age right? Nay, we're far too contrary for that over here, so you get the other big single from their album, and the one I prefer: Everything's Gonna Be Alright, as well as the awesome Uptown Anthem from the Juice Soundtrack, which might be my favorite Naughty song.

As for the Beatnuts, they are just that kind of old classic, thumping NY hip hop that warms my heart, even on a Monday like this where we have two feet of snow on the ground. Originally appearing on the scene as producers, the Nuts were originally a three piece, with JuJu, Fashion, and Psycho Les all rocking the mic and the boards (I think, although JuJu and Psycho Les might've handled the production chores). But going back and listening to the Nuts production from their first couple albums, it still sounds great. Thick drums with jazzy elements layered all over it, really hard not to like that. Plus the lyrics were geared towards the funnest kind of party & bullshat, equal measure comedic one-liners and threats of violence and other the types of harm that made old hip hop so enjoyable.

Well, enjoyable for some I guess. When I think of the Beatnuts, I'm always reminded of one particular morning during university I was giving Herohill-originator Shawn Lapaix a drive, and his wacky neighbour came with us. I happened to be bumping the Beatnuts in my Cutlass, and this guy happened to be Jewish. Unfortunately I forgot there was a line on one of the songs on Street Level along the lines of "Hitler putting jews in ovens", which is really not cool at all. If that guy heard it, he didn't say anything, but I was a little mortified by the whole thing. Anyway, some Beatnuts tunes for you! We've got Reign of the Tec from the Intoxicated Demons EP, and well as Props Over Here and Hit Me With That from Street Level. Enjoy, and go see the Beatnuts on Friday if you're in Halifax.

MP3::

Naughty By Nature - Uptown Anthem
Naughty By Nature - Everything's Gonna Be Alright
The Beatnuts - Reign Of The Tec
The Beatnuts - Props Over Here
The Beatnuts - Hit Me With That

Video::

The Beatnuts - Reign Of The Tec

The Beatnuts - Props Over Here

The Beatnuts - Hit Me With That

Naughty By Nature - Everything's Gonna Be Allright

Naughty By Nature - Uptown Anthem

Talking Points:: The Knux - Remind Me In 3 Days

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:43:00 +0000

A few weeks ago, a made a plea for someone to send me The Knux' new album, Remind Me In 3 Days. I didn't really think much of it, as most of the time those requests are like shouting "I would like some onion rings!" from the top of a mountain - it gets lost in the ether. Well, thanks to some kind folks (a big up to both Jeff and Knux manager Dart Malone for the helping hands), I did get that copy and have been able to spend some time listening to these two talented, New Orleans to Hollywood, transplants.

So you know what's coming now, the review format preferred by lazy bloggers and ADD afflicted readers everywhere, the Talking Points! Let's do this!

-Album opener The List starts as if it's going to be some kind of interlude/intro thingy, and considering my hopes for this album, that made me die a little inside. BUT, once some classic, fast-rap drums are layered over the addictive bassline and the fellas get going, my spirits lifted. And when Krispy rhymed futon with Poupon and Paul Prudhomme, that little bit of deceased matter lept back to life.

-After the rather hip hop sound of The List and Fire, the hyper electro-rock of Bang Bang caught me a little off-guard. It likely shouldn't have, as I had read there was experimentation to be found on the album, but this was more than I was prepared for from two brothers from N.O. Kudos to them though, as I'm not sure I could go for an album full of this, but I do like the Dave Silver switch-it-up respite it offers from the norm.

-The slow burn of Cappuchino is what first focused the attention of bloggers and others on The Knux, and even now, you can see why. Big slapping drums, guitar licks, video game sounds, and lyrics about the ladies that don't make me cringe, I cannot front on that. Plus a Cafe Du Monde ref, I've been there! I love things about things I've been too!

-Roxxanne had me simultaneously concerned that it was in some way Police-related and hopefully that it might be UTFO-related. Turns out it is related to neither, but it is heavy on the rock geetars. I don't love it, but the catchiness of the hook makes me not hate it.

-The ode to trust fund girls Daddy's Little Girl is the kind of song I would hate if Kanye did something similar. As it is, the female rap-along steez used kind of makes it impossible for me to really like it, so I guess the difference is I don't like it, but I don't hate it. That's something I guess.

-The electro-fied funk of The Train sounds like it also utilizes the female rap-along (not sure), but it confines it to the hook, and leaves the verses for Krispy and Al to handle. Which is wise, as these guys are solid MC's, Krispy being a bit more of a natural flower, but both are more than capable. This is why a lot of the experimentation the Knux come with is more tolerable than it would be for other groups or MC's - their MC-ability helps keep you engaged.

-The storytelling Shine Again has an 80's feel to it I think. Well, the sung chorus and keyboards do, the raps are certainly modern. These raps have an 80's feel to them. "I don't be in no casino, and baby while you knizzow The izzi is the grizzeat Kizzangizzo." Word!

-Life In A Cage not only contains refs to the Fat Boys (and/or Beasties) (brrr stick 'em) and Wrecks N Effect (check baby check baby), but it also a little Outkast-ish. Aquemini era Outkast I think, and that's a good thing.

-The nasty Parking Lot is a good example of why this album works and maybe kind of doesn't. The 2-3 songs before it are heavy on the electro sounds, but this harkens back to classic hip hop sounds - with an almost Liquid Swords-esque beat behind it. In theory I don't have a problem with kind of variation, but at 17 songs, this back and forth becomes a little tiring in the latter stages on the album.

-Which is a shame, as Wake The Fuck Up and The True are a couple of the album's more hearty songs and show the Knux are aware of the issues beyond the women & drug fueled goodtimes they found in Hollywood.

MP3::

The Knux - Fire
The Knux - Bang Bang
The Knux - Cappuccino (Remix)

Quick hitters:: Young Rival

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 13:30:00 +0000

myspace

When a young band explores the classic garage band sounds the results are often predictable; reverb, sneers, and crunching guitars. And sure, Hamilton's Young Rival can sneer with the best of 'em, but more impressively, they offer up a more mature take on the affair.

The guitar and shimmering vocals on Your Island and Too Hip will still have you reaching for your mod suits and wishing you were rocking a shag, but The Haunt proves that the band has discovered a darker side and 4:15 show how easily the band can engage the listener psychedelics and Zombie's influenced subtleties.

From start to finish, the EP shows that the band obviously has a terrific record collection, but more importantly, the strength of their song writing is making significant strides as well. The biggest challenge for a lot of these new era Brit evasion bands is stepping out of the shadow of their idols and Young Rival showed that they are already forging their own sound… one that shows considerable potential.

MP3::

Young Rival – Your Island

BOX:: All-Canadian Edition - Vol. 2

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 15:08:00 +0000

All righty, we have some good stuff for you fine folks on the snow & ice encrusted morning. Well we've got snow & ice here in Halifax, likely most of you don't where you are, and I'm sure you're happy about that. Either way, get ready to get warmed up, Canadian hip hop style, as we present the second All-Canadian edition of our hip hop single-fest BOX! The previous All-Canadian edition seemed to be quite popular, and I think this one is even better, so let's get to it.

MP3::

DL Incognito - Airplay

Based on my fawning review, I think it's safe to say I enjoyed DL Incognito's last album, A Captured Moment In Time. But going back to that album now, I still think the exuberance was warranted, as in these days & times, good hip hop, such as the kind found here, is cause for celebration no matter where it comes from. So when I find it here in Canada, I get a little excited. Air Play is the latest single from the album, and DL has made a video for it, which you can check below. It's actually kind of a great video, with DL playing the role of cab driver, wheeling various T.O. hip hop types through the bright lights of a Toronto night (I like D-Sisive's cameo in his crazy birdface mask). As for the song, I said this in my review: "a dark, 70's, jazz-funk beat that works even without a slap bass solo, and finds DL kicking notable quotables all over the track". A slap-bass reference! You have to hear it now don't you?

MP3::

Dragon Fli Empire - Outside Inn f. Cadence Weapon

Here's another song with a spiffy new video that I enjoy. I certainly enjoyed this jam from Calgary duo Dragon Fli Empire back when Teekay & Cosm first sent us their EP, Intermission, after all, it made our Alberta mix, but this video reminded me what a great track it is. Mr. Roland Pemberton reminds us why he's so darn likable with his opening verse, Teekay has a great take on what it's like to rep Central Canada when you aren't a Casper-esque, hockey-hair havin' Albertan, and the song finishes with a funky geetar solo. Oh, and I like the drums on this. That's a lot of good right there.

MP3::

Famous - Ain't No Use

IT'S THE KID! Full disclosure: if he wasn't Canadian, there is likely zero chance I would be posting a song from Famous, as his uber-swagger self-promotion is the kind of thing that turns me off. But somehow I figured out he was Canadian and gave him a listen, and the truth is, he's a pretty solid MC. Not sure if his full-scale selling of himself and "reppin' for the suburbs" steez is going to result in me posting anything else from him, but at the same time, I don't want to dismiss someone with talent because they have ambition. Also, the video below is actually a really reasonable take on why a number of Canadians were hyped on the US election results. So it's worth a watch I'd say. And yeah, IT'S THE KID, HE RAPS NOW. Now you know.

MP3::

K'Naan - My God f. Mos Def

For whatever reason, I haven't heard K'Naan's debut, The Dusty Foot Philosopher, but as this lovely little live collabo with Mos Def shows, K'naan is a really talented fellow. I believe he has a new album dropping next year, so if someone affiliated with K'Naan would send it my way for reviewage, I'd appreciate it. Also, his new pre-release song ABCs, has a version that features Chubb Rock (the song itself features the same "go go go" as Treat 'Em Right), and if you know my history, you know I think that is waaaay above average. So nevermind how talented he is, and how thoughtful and socially conscious his lyrics are, I wholeheartedly endorse K'Naan on his Chubbster affiliations alone.

MP3::

D-Sisive - Wonderful World '08

We could just as easily change this from an All-Canadian edition, to a "People Shane Enjoys Long-Time Edition". D-Sisive certainly fits that category. I've written a couple a praise filled posts this year about D-Sisive and his releases The Book and Like This (Plus Three). Well you can take all those things and apply them to Wonderful World 08, D's latest single (which I believe he's also releasing in the Plus Three format). Despite his lack of attention from those outside the Canadian hip hop scene, I really think D is one of Canada's premier lyricists. At least in my opinion, as his combination of humour and storytelling ability make him easy to listen to over and over again. This soulful outing is no exception.

Video::

DL Incognito - Air Play

Dragon Fli Empire ft. Cadence Weapon - Outside Inn

President Too (Barack Obama)

K'Naan & Mos Def - My God

News:: Olympic Symphonium, Don Brownrigg Live This Saturday

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:59:00 +0000

This will not be a revelation to those who know me, but my brain is a random, mysterious organ. I have tremendous difficulty remembering things my wife told me to do five minutes ago, yet I`m fairly certain I could easily score 90% on a quiz asking me to match Golden Age MC`s with their backup dancers (Leg 1 & Leg 2.....MC Lyte!). Anyway, this morning on CBC radio there was discussion of a CBC documentary called Where The Women Went, the story of Newfoundland women coming to NS to work as home care workers. The clip they played profiled a woman in Newfoundland`s Codroy Valley, a name that I recognized, despite my relatively minuscule knowledge of The Rock and its geography. After a few minutes, I remembered: Don Brownrigg.

The Halifax-based Brownrigg hails from the Codroy Valley, and he also happens to make some really beautiful, country-tinged folk music. So this CBC-induced remembrance, along with the knowledge that Don is also playing the Bus Stop Theatre in Halifax this Saturday as part of the Olympic Symphonium's album release party show compelled me to re-visit his debut, Wander Songs. I have to say, it's a great album and also a great companion for a rainy fall day such as the one we had here today. That wasn't a surprise to me though, after all, I said this about the album in my review from earlier this year:

Every now and again I use the phrase "rewards repeat listens" to describe an album, and this album is one the most appropriate uses of that phrase I've come across in a while. Don's songwriting is honest and vivid, so no matter what the subject, you'll find yourself immersed in the song.

High praise indeed, and I hear that Don inked with weewerk earlier this year, and those fine folks subsequently re-released his album, so lucky you, no matter where you are you can score a copy of Wander Songs for yourself.

As for the Olympic Symphonium, here's all you need to know about them: The Ack has proclaimed their latest release, More In Sorrow Than In Anger, to be "amazingly digestible". This is excellent news, as there's almost nothing I hate more than poppy folk music that gives me gas. Also, the Symphonium used that exact quote on the poster for this Friday's show, which is just smart business really, and show's that they are a band of discerning taste. So Halifax, why not hit the Bus Stop on Saturday night and show them you've also got some discerning taste .

MP3::

Don Brownrigg - In It
The Olympic Symphonium - Intentions Alone

Reviews:: Stacy Lloyd Brown Automatic EP

noreply@blogger.com (ack) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:30:00 +0000

myspace

Inspired.

It's a descriptor that has fallen out of the vernacular of most critics these days... and rightly so I might add. All too often it feels like musicians are trying to write songs they hope people will like and end up pounding out the same synth riffs or wrestling with the same blips and bleeps. The more music you listen to, the more the songs start blending together.

But tucked in the farthest corners of this country, Halifax has a quiet, folk community that is creating truly inspired music. Whether you listen to the grandiose, theatrical arrangements of Fall Horsie, the chilling subject matter and beautiful harmonies of Ghost Bees or the frantic, herky jerky style of Alberta transplant Stacy Lloyd Brown, you will realize Halifax is producing some acts that deserve your time.

Brown's latest release - Automatic - is a tug of war between the past and the present. With a mixture of classic folk elements and programmed beats (often in the same song), Stacy is writing music that stands out. Even when something sounds familiar - like the Flaming Lips style space pop of The Motherload or the occasional tip of the cap to Neil Young - the interesting textures and transitions make it impossible to pigeonhole his sound.

When you hear the classic Appalachian mountain folk that starts Bloody Pockets, you expect Brown to stick with the rugged, foot stomping jam, but it quickly turns in a sweat soaked, club beat. Without hearing it, you'd guess that the bizarre juxtaposition should never be attempted, but that's the kind of risk/reward that comes from writing music for your own enjoyment. You might alienate fans or, as is the case with this infectious track, completely win over new ones.

But in the end I don't think that matters much to Stacy. His music seems to be a gateway inside his brain as he constantly shifts from extroverted, bold, confident sounds (like the electro-folk Living Rooms) to introverted insecurities (Strawbuck) and confessionals (the beautiful piano ballad Fire in My Bones) and a way of getting ideas out of his head and emotions off his chest. It's an extremely personal record, one that allows Brown to share his dreams and expose his fears and one that any listener hoping for something truly unique and strangely beautiful will enjoy.

MP3::

Stacy Lloyd Brown - The Motherload
Stacy Load Brown - Living Room

The EP is packaged with a few songs from Goodbye Generation - his work with Paul MacLean - and the collaboration is a more traditional, Daniel Johnston type affair with Casio tones, acoustic strums and sonic exploration coming together in an amazing fashion. All in all, this might be one of the best local releases of the year.

Live:: Cam Malcolm, Bloodsport & The Lodge

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:57:00 +0000

After last week, if my name were Mike and/or Michael, I'd be running out to buy myself a sleep mask. After seeing Michael Scott rock one on Thursday, and then seeing Mike O'Neill rock out while rocking one on Friday, I think it's pretty clear that all the Mike's are doing it!

Well perhaps not all, but some. Or two. Anyway, the Ack and I braved a rainy Friday night to check out a fine Gus' Pub lineup consisting of Hamilton's Cam Malcolm and The Owls, Halifax's Bloodsport & The Lodge, and PEI indie heroes Smothered In Hugs. As an aside it strikes me that we owe Smothered In Hugs some coverage here on the hill as we didn't get around to writing about the time we saw them with Mardeen and this time the rain and our old man tired-ness made us leave before their set. Sorry, Smothered In Hugs, we owe you one!

Otherwise, we enjoyed the evening. The Ack is a big Cam Malcolm fan, after reviewing his album, and I have to say, I also enjoyed Cam's set. His laidback brand of rock & roll and his friendly demeanor seemed a good fit for Gus', and although the crowd was anticipating the acts to come, Cam & company seemed to get a decent reaction. Friday marked the second time we've seen Bloodsport, the distortion-ified outfit helmed by jack of all trades Matt Charlton, and they might be building a rep as one of the better live acts in the city. They're nice and loud, and they`ve got a big posse (word to Arabian Prince), so it's a pretty enthusiastic affair when they play. Some recorded material from Bloodsport would likely be received well in these parts.

The Ack and I were intrigued to see The Lodge play, a kind of old-school Halifax supergroup led by former Inbred Mike O'Neill on vocals, former Superfriend Charles Austin on guitar, and former Hermit Cliff Gibb on drums. There is also a guy on bass. Sorry guy on bass, but The Lodge is myspace-less, so I know not your name. The Lodge continued to intrigue us, as O'Neill performed the set wearing the aforementioned sleep mask. Why? I have no idea. It works for him though, as he seemed to be in his own world as they plowed through one chunky, riff-filled rocker after another wit nary a word of banter or song title utter in between songs. So there is a Lodge song below, but I have no idea what it is.

Update! Scott, of ever-expanding Gooseberry records, has been kind enough to inform me that The Lodge's bass player is Andrew Glencross of outfits such as Neuseiland and The Euphonic. Many apologies Andrew, for tabbing you "guy on bass".

Scott was also kind enough to identify the unknown Lodge song I posted. It turns out the song is Forget The Silence, and you can also hear it on Gooseberry's free Zunior sampler. So why wait? Do it now.

MP3::

Cam Malcolm and the Owls - The Thing About Us
Cam Malcolm and the Owls - Lonely Boy
Bloodsport - Chinese Fireworks (Maybe)
The Lodge - Forget The Silence (Live @ Gus' Pub)
The Lodge - Forget The Silence

Reviews:: Danger Bees - Fight Fire With Failure

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:15:00 +0000

I've been meaning to write something about Dartmouth's Danger Bees for a while now for one reason: to combat all the Ack's talk about the Ghost Bees. This is a bit of a stretch, as I don't really have a problem with the Lightman sisters or their button-cute creepiness, but any band name is made at least 20% funner to discuss with the inclusion of "bees" in said name, and really, why should the Ack have all that stingin', winged fun?

Of course that intro is just a tad facetious, as the debut album from this young threesome, Fight Fire With Failure, is certainly worth a listen on it's own merits. I just realized that I used "young" in that last sentence without knowing how old the Bees actually are, but the tales of quarter life crisises that can be found throughout this album lead me to believe that they are certainly on the far south side of 30. Too much Nintendo, MSN references, struggling at sparsely attended shows, singing a love ode to cigarettes, and hating on Captain Picard are not usually song topics that would appeal to my curmudgeonly, and soon to be 34-year-old, self (oh wait, I can whole-heartedly get behind the last one). But I have to say, in the case of the Danger Bees, it works for me. The songs are melodic, cleverly written, and laced with a kind of self-deprecating humour that can draw you in if you give them the chance.

The Danger Bees have a mid-tempo, guitar-led sound that brings to mind 90's indie rock on first listen, but they mix things up with the occasional use of piano and synths to create a modern indie-pop-ish sound. While the music on Fight Fire With Failure is certainly solid, I think it's the songwriting that will likely make or break this album for most listeners.

You Can't Take Care of Yourself is an ode to those direction-less friends we all used to have (or still have in many cases) who can't figure out which path to take after high school, so they choose none. Lines like "stand up and turn off your Nintendo that you got yourself way too good at the expense of friends" and "You went swimming with your glasses on, and you still freaked out when you found that they're gone!" do a great job bringing to mind people we've all known. The sweet piano-assisted melody of Dig Up, Stupid shows the band can venture confidently away from the lo-fi bounce of guitar led songs like Paper Thin and Caroline & I (This is also true on vulnerable songs like After I Wake Up and Awkward Guy).

I think Being Serious is likely the best example of why I find singer/songwriter David Macmichael's writing style engaging, it's a mature song about the end of an immature romance, if that makes any sense. This also seems like as good a time as any to mention that Macmichael is the nephew of late Cutting Crew guitarist Kevin Macmichael, which is kind of awesome.

Anyway, we're starting to ramble here, but let me just say that I think Fight Fire With Failure is worth a listen. I say this despite the fact that I 'm sure some people might be unable to relate to the kind of specific time of one's life that the songs on this album capture, but you can nod your head to catchy songs at any age, so suck it up. Oh, and enjoy!

MP3::

The Danger Bees - Please Dont Please Me
The Danger Bees - Paper Thin

Old School Mondays:: College Boyz, Jibri & Rough House Survivors

noreply@blogger.com (naedoo) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:29:00 +0000

Like the tens of you that await our weekly shot of golden age goodness with bated breath, the Ack was disappointed I couldn't post an OSM last week due to an extended long weekend. So, despite the fact that he's away this week and likely won't get to check the jams for a while, I thought I'd post some songs froma few of the more infamous hip hop tapes he bought back in the day - a number of which he bought on family trips to Florida, which he's doing again this week, so it all ties up in a neat little package now doesn't it?

All right, this post is essentially a showcase for the College Boyz, who have been mentioned on the hill a number of times, mainly because they had a track featuring a dude rapping over a cell phone. The Ack has never forgiven the College Boyz for this gimmickery, but I have to say, considering what airtime must've cost in '91, making that cell phone rapping song would've cost as much as one of Jay-Z's sampled out jams. That's if it was a cell phone, if it was just a regular phone, well now that's just lame. Turns out the College Boyz actually have a bigger claim to fame than phone raps, as they were fronted by Romany Malco, who you might know from such films as The 40 Year Old Virgin and The Love Guru(!). Pretty impressive, so enjoy the singles from Ack's un-favorite album Radio Fusion Radio, Victim Of The Ghetto & Hollywood Paradox (I would've posted the phone song, but I'm not listening to this whole album to find it, seriously, it has 10 interludes).

I know basically nothing about Jibri Wise One, other than he was from Cinncinati, and the Ack scored a copy of his one and only self-titled release on a US excursion back in the day. Ole Jibri was pretty into the New Jack-ish beats, and as a result this album hasn't aged too well, but album opener The House The Dog Built is really quite funky, so we'll go with that.

I'm not actually sure if he got it in the US, but I'm pretty sure the Ack had a copy of Rough House Survivors excellent Straight From The Soul, which was just classic, golden age, NY hip-hop. They were on Relativity, a label which just makes me think of of old school goodness (like debut albums from Common and Fat Joe). I didn't have a copy of this back in the day, but I think I wanted it, so I'm happy to hear it again. And now you can hear Check Da Back Pack and Pete Rock's lovely remix for Rough House.

MP3::

College Boyz - Victim of the Ghetto
College Boyz - Hollywood Paradox
Jibri Wise One - The House The Dog Built
Rough House Survivors - Check Da Back Pack
Rough House Survivors - Rough House (Pete Rock Remix)

Video::

College Boyz - Victim of the Ghetto

College Boyz - Hollywood Paradox

Rough House Survivors - Rough House

Rough House Survivors - Check Da Back Pack