From Blown Speakers

all this horror business

2011-10-28T18:35:00.000-07:00

A quick rundown of what's up this Halloweekend:

Tonight:

The Waldorf kicks off an entire weekend of events that culminates with the venue's one year anniversary and Ice Cream Social's sixth birthday soiree.

Beat Connection, Too High Crew, Teen Daze, and Blood Diamonds are at the Electric Owl. Tix are nearly sold out, but there will be handful at the door.

A Hard Days Night of the Living Dead (the SSRIs as the Beatles) play the Rickshaw. With "Ice Cream Social vs. East Van Soul Club" behind the decks.

One Baby (members of Baptists, Congress, and Slow Learners covering Nirvana) play a special Friday night edition of one of my favourite monthlies, Junior High.

And, Mode Moderne, Korean Gut, members of Sutures, the Courtneys, and (again) Mode Moderne, members of Bummer High, High Drops, and Timecopz, and members of Indian Wars, My Friend Wallis, and Student Teacher are rocking another covers show at 360 Glen.

Tomorrow:

The Rickshaw hosts the Defektors as AC/DC, White Lung as the Wipers & Misfits, Peace as the Cramps, and Aquanaut as Sabbath.

Glory Days hosts its annual Halloween dance party.

Man Your Horse, Blake, Tasty Animals, and Whiskey Tooth play Montmartre Cafe.

Square Root of Evil play Zoo Zhop.

Sunday:
Chariots, N213, Lief Hall, and Colby Sparks play the Astoria.

Monday:

Bitch Moves, Night Mirrors, and Zoo play Zoo Zhop.

And the Biltmore hosts the Ramores (Ramones covers) and Teenagers from Mars (Misfits covers).

now playing: Chelsea Wolfe - Demons

2011-09-29T15:54:00.000-07:00

Obviously, the appropriate first post in a month on your blog is about your own bands show.

This is tonight at the Biltmore. Check us out on Bandcamp and come down to the Biltmore.

2011-09-01T16:12:00.000-07:00

Three more sleeps!

it goes on and on and on

2011-08-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

I don't really post 90s R&B songs here all that often, but on the 10th anniversary of Aaliyah's death, I think it's worth reminding how completely ahead of its time this 15-year-old gem is. A lot of the credit has to go to Missy and Timbaland's production work, but Aaliyah was the perfect foil to that (at the time) complete off-the-wall approach to pop music (and her enthusiasm for the track was one of the reasons that it got released in the first place).

Anyhow, with all the pop revivalism going on, it's not rare to find an old song that would do well as a new release. This, however, is a different sort of beast. It's a song that could be released tomorrow and it would still be a hit today, but it wouldn't be due to retro appeal or nostalgia, because it still sounds positively modern.

nikki don't

2011-08-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

So, I know Obits (with the always awesome locals, Hard Feelings) is also tonight. And, I'm not going to lie, that show will slay pretty hard. Also, I haven't seen Royal Baths live, but the local support for this show is on par, it's outdoors (and there's only so much summer left), and you can saunter over to C86 Night in the Tiki Room afterwards, which is what sold me on a tough decision.

This also helped...

download: Bummer High - Cough Syrup

Dave from Bummer High was nice enough to send over three unreleased songs. They're all great, but this one grabbed me the hardest. Enjoy.

end of the cause

2011-08-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry, it's been summer, so, well, you know how it goes.

Anyhow, if you haven't already heard, the Victory Square Block Party line-up is out. And, as usual, it celebrates some of the best the city has to offer. Also, this year it's on a Sunday, which means you get a stat holiday the next day to work of your park drunk/after party induced hangover.

Speaking of great local festivals, Olio, which goes down from September 22nd-25th also has their line-up out.

Also, huge apology to Aunts & Uncles, as I totally forgot to plug their EP release show last week. I can, however, suggest that you check out the actual EP:

Aunts & Uncles by Aunts and Uncles

now playing: Jody Glenham - Daydream Believer (Monkees Cover)

in the red

2011-07-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

Some catch up:

First off, Cults on Thursday was, oddly, the first time I'd been to Venue since it changed from the Plaza. I didn't think it was possible for the sound to be any worse than it was pre-renovations, but, hey, I've been wrong before. Pretty solid performance marred by godawful sound. The band had their own sound guy but the opening band, who used the in-house guy had similar problems, so I'm going to chalk it up to the room.

Second, hopefully you made it out to Khatsalano on Saturday. It was gorgeous out and the music stages, curated by Zulu, made it like Music Waste (if it were one day, free, and in Kits). There's a pic of B-Lines up there playing where I'd never expected to watch them, at the corner of 4th and Maple.

Wednesday, I made it down to the Biltmore for Junior High. The relatively new (it started in June) monthly features 90s hits (which I'm more into than I realized) from the "Gal Pal" DJs and last night they welcomed Love Cuts, who played a short, but sweet set. They weren't super tight, but they've got some good (and a couple great) songs, notably this one.

This weekend looks to be a busy one. There's the Neverland Boat Cruise tomorrow, Needles & Pins/Peace at the Astoria and Chains of Love's release party at the Biltmore after that, while Saturday sees Scratch/Interurban hosting a huge record sale in the afternoon, Goody hosting and outdoor BBQ with 7 live acts, another outdoor show at the Waldorf with Iceage, Cults of Youth, White Lung, and Nu Sensae, an early Ty Segall show at the Biltmore, plus late shows at the Astoria and Pat's. So, if you're sticking around town, go see something besides fireworks.

Oh, and if you're not busy tonight, come to this fundraiser. I'm playing some records with Dustin. Dan Moxon's playing a solo set of mostly covers, and a bunch of other cool performers are doing there thing as well.

now playing: Wu Lyf - Brooklyn Girls

when you're around, my heart makes this sound

2011-07-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

Oh hello, neglected blog. I would blame it on the summer weather, but let's not kid ourselves.

Anyhow, here's a random assortment of catch up points.

1) The Vic Square Block Party has a date: September 4th... which really makes me regret agreeing to stay an extra night in Whistler after the wedding I'm going to on the 3rd. For everyone else, they've already confirmed via Twitter that Sun Wizard are playing, with, of course, many more acts to come.

2) Cam Reed has a new night at the Astoria called You Could Do Worse Wednesdays. No live acts (yet), but it's $2 and, really, if you're looking for something to do on a Wednesday, you could do worse. The first one was last night (I was at the Biltmore, so I wasn't there) and it runs every two weeks.

3) Speaking of the Biltmore, last night's Rock n Roll Pizza Party was the second time I've caught Blondewich live and I'm pretty stoked on them, particularly the garage-punk/girl-group hybrid "Boom Boom," which they closed with last night.

4) If you're not skipping it in favour of Cold Cave/Austra, TVOTR, or Thurston Moore/Kurt Vile, you're officially reminded that Cults got moved from the Waldorf to Venue.

5) And for no particular reason, Sophie Madeleine covering the Chiffons' "One Fine Day" as part of her 30 Covers, 30 Days project:

now playing: Summer Camp - Better Off Without You

i'd never heard someone say that before

2011-06-13T15:15:00.000-07:00

Go, Canucks, go.

i love how you love me

2011-06-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the Astoria hosts an evening of 60's tunes, focusing on the production of the one and only Phil Spector and including a live set of covers by the Bad News Babysitters at midnight. If, unlike me, you actually slept last night, you should make it out. I might try anyways.

Safe Amp is doing a feasibility study for the all-ages venue they hope to open and they're asking for community input. Take the survey here.

And, not music related, but: ONE MORE WIN

now playing: Beyonce feat. Andre 3000 - Party

fang fang

2011-06-07T16:43:00.000-07:00

If you're not still recovering from Music Waste/drinking away the memory of last night's hockey debacle, tonight's show at the Biltmore is sure to be awesome. Womankind are celebrating the release of their new self-titled LP, Music Waste highlight Men at Adventure and I-haven't-heard-them-but-I-bet-they're-great-too Harem of Men support.

now playing: Love Inks - In My Dreams

sometimes we rock and roll

2011-05-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

So long, Wolf Parade. It's been swell.

now playing: Wolf Parade - This Heart's On Fire

we could have had it all

2011-05-31T09:45:00.000-07:00

Adele's show tonight at the Orpheum is canceled (as per Exclaim!). Official word is that laryngitis is keeping the British crooner from performing.

Edit: official word from the promoter is that the show is postponed, so hold on to your tickets and keep an eye out for a rescheduled date.

bike home

2011-05-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the brand new Electric Owl opens on Main in the old American Hotel space at 928 Main Street. The even opens up to the public at 9pm and Humans and Teen Daze play.

Also, tonight, the Waldorf hosts Collectors & Selectors, a group record sale/swap that also features a live performance by Koban (have I posted about their 7" yet? Don't wait around for me to get around to it and go grab one now--tonight, even).

Tomorrow night, also at the Electric Owl, is the inaugural editions of Heart of Gold Fridays. The DJ night opens early (10pm) and closes early (1am) this week, though the venue's hoping they'll be granted a later closing time soon. Edit: and this week they'll feature live guest Love & Electrik.

And, last, but certainly not least, as you mentally gear up for Music Waste, don't forget to check the iTunes store tomorrow, so you can download the official Music Waste iPhone app to keep the schedule (sortable by band, venue, or day) and line up handy while you're rushing around between shows.

now playing: the Weeknd - Wicked Games

free love is a sales technique

2011-05-23T13:11:00.000-07:00

So, I've never heard of This Will Destroy You, but when their show got canceled yesterday (again, refunds available at your point of purchase, if you bought tickets), I did look at the openers and think, "I hope this means Pure X and Sleep Over will reschedule." And they did. For tonight. And fellow Texans, Silent Diane, will join them and Cam "Babe Rainbow" Reed is going to DJ between sets.

If you're not too worn out from Wyrd Fest last night, it's only $5. Plus, if you really want to keep your long weekend party going strong, you can head over to the Tiki Room after the show for Ice Cream Social.

Excuse the crappy picture of Grown Ups. I was too lazy to pack around my actual camera for 7-hours. But, speaking of Wyrd Fest, it was absolutely awesome last night.

With that many bands playing, there were high points and low points, but with 20 acts and non-stop music between the two stages, it would have been exhausting if I'd wanted to watch every minute of every band.

As for the high points, there were a lot, but Famines absolutely slayed. I haven't seen them for a few years and remembered them being great the last time, but they exceeded those expectations. Gobble Gobble turned the Waldorf's Tiki Room into a wall to wall dance party. In fact, it was so crammed in there, it would have been nice if they were on the main room stage, but they definitely more than made due in the smaller space. Somehow, it was my first time seeing Manic Attracts--it won't be the last time.

Thanks again to Paul from Weird Canada for letting me give away a pair of tickets to the show. And, of course, for bringing the show to Vancouver. Don't miss it next year.

now playing: Pure X - Back Where I Began

gimme some numbers

2011-05-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

If you haven't got a ticket to Weird Canada's Wyrd Fest tonight at the Waldorf, they've still got a few at Zoo Zhop and they'll also have some tickets at the door.

Set times below:
5:40PM - BABYSITTER
6:00PM - NEEDLES X PINS
6:20PM - B-LINES
6:40PM - GROWN UPS
7:00PM - MANIC ATTRACTS
7:25PM - ROLE MACH
7:50PM - VELVET CHROME
8:15PM - DIRTY BEACHES
8:40PM - FAMINES
9:05PM - MAKEOUT VIDEOTAPE
9:30PM - FERAL CHILDREN
9:55PM - HOBO CUBES
10:20PM - LONG, LONG, LONG
10:45PM - SILVER DAPPLE
11:10PM - GOBBLE GOBBLE
11:35PM - KETAMINES
12:00AM - WYRD VISIONS
12:25AM - SURPRISE GUEST!
12:50AM - FEMMINIELLI
1:15AM - RED MASS

Also, the This Will Destroy You show scheduled for tonight at the Media Club has been canceled due to illness. Refunds at your point of purchase.

now playing: Hockey ~~Night~~Afternoon in Canada

waiting for nothing

2011-05-20T11:44:00.001-07:00

So, if you plan on hitting up Music Waste (and you probably should be planning on it), you should get over to Scratch, Red Cat, Zulu, or Neptoon to grab a pass. They're only $15+charges and they always sell out in advance.

Tonight, there's a lot of things going on, but I'd point your attention to Zoo Zhop, who host Koban and Terror Bird for the latter's 7" release party.

If the playoffs aren't enough hockey for you, you can head down to the Astoria early on May 29th where Beatroute will host an NHL 94 tournament before Jordon Daniel and the Greff band take the stage. Tournament starts at 4pm, show at 9pm, sign up for the former here.

now playing: Drake - Dream Money Can Buy

hot mess

2011-05-10T15:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight, the Biltmore introduces a brand new monthly that you'll love if you're short on cash (or if you just like a sweet deal): Twoonie Tuesday.

The inaugural edition features Keep Tidy, the Boogieman Jordon Daniel, and, Blanche Devereaux and, as the name suggests, cover will set you back a mere $2.

Going forward, you can expect the same deal with three different local acts on the bill the second Tuesday of every month.

now playing: Tyler, the Creator feat. Frank Ocean - She

sunglasses is a must

2011-05-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

photo by Terry Richardson

Contest: A-Trak, Kid Sister, and the Gaslamp Killer Ticket Giveaway

So, this is going to be pretty awesome: A-Trak, Kid Sister, and the Gaslamp Killer at the Commodore next Thursday (May 12th).

It's coming up quick, so let's keep it simple. Just email me at quinn.omori[at]gmail[dot]com with the subject line "A-Trak Contest" by midnight on Sunday and I'll pick a winner at random for the pair of tickets. Easy, right? Just make sure you put your full name somewhere in the email if your address doesn't make it obvious.

You might want to head over to Winnie Cooper too, because they also might be giving away a pair. Maybe.

And, if you don't win the tickets, you can still buy them here (make sure you take the Friday after off of work too, you'll probably need it).

now playing: Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand

psychoholic

2011-05-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

There's a ton of stuff going on this weekend (including Damaged Goods on Friday, where Harsh Words plays live and I'll be playing some records), but I wanted to point out Sunday's show at the Waldorf for the culmination of Ladies Rock Camp, the grown up edition of Girls Rock Camp. White Lung and Joyce Collingwood headline a night that features four bands formed during this coming weekend's camp.

I'm always stoked to see White Lung and Joyce Collingwood, but I'm extra excited to see what the camp graduates come up with over the course of three days. There's not even a hockey game on Sunday, so what else are you going to do?

Get more info on Girls Rock Camp Vancouver and spread the word to any aspiring young Mish Way or Grady Mackintoshes out there.

now playing: Tyler, the Creator - AU79

at the hop

2011-05-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

A quick note to say that if you aren't doing your post-election celebrating (or mourning depending on results/political affiliation) at the Biltmore, you should be reminded that Ice Cream Social debuts in its new home at the Waldorf tonight.

If you haven't already, happy voting.

now playing: Warpaint - Undertow

lawn knives

2011-04-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

Contest: WeirdCanada.com presents... Wyrd Festival at the Waldorf

You may have read about Weird Canada's traveling caravan of awesomeness, Wyrd Festival, last year (it toured around Alberta and featured, amongst many other fine acts, a few Vancouver favourites). This year, they're extending the tour and touching down at the Waldorf on May 22nd. The full line-up features 19-bands in two rooms and it'll only run you $20 (so, like, a buck a band).

This is probably the thing I'm looking forward to most between now and Music Waste, so I'm psyched that Paul from Weird Canada offered up a pair of tickets to give away to someone out there.

We'll keep this one easy. To win, just send me an email with the subject line "Weird Canada Contest" to quinn.omori[AT]gmail[dot]com. The only tests of skill are un-obfuscating my email address and naming the local band that's not already playing that you'd add to this already stacked bill. Entries are due by Sunday May 8th at 11:59pm and I'll draw a winner the next morning, which gives you tons of time to still buy tickets if you don't win.

Easy, right?

Stay up to date on the show details on Facebook and buy tickets online or in person at Zoo Zhop.

now playing: Gobble Gobble - Eat Sun, Son

knowing

2011-04-20T16:12:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that this is tonight.

lost in bollywood

2011-04-15T11:39:00.000-07:00

Zechimechi by Needs More Ram Records

So, record store day goes down tomorrow. And while there's a lot of records have me excited (the Sonic Youth and KRS comp reissues and the Cults 7", in particular), there's also a lot of live performances that do. None more so, though, than Boogie Monster performing Zechimechi in full at Zoo Zhop (and later that night at a house show, playing mostly new stuff).

I'd provide some sort of description, but the beauty of the internet 2.0 is that you don't have to endure that. You can just press play up there. Crank it up loud.

now playing: EMA - California

to tell the truth, oh, this could be the last time

2011-04-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

Hey, so, I was in New York last week watching that up there (and also visiting my awesome friend Becky). I won't go into detail, since the internet sort of blew up about the whole LCD Soundsystem retirement thing last week (this piece was my favourite). But I will say that I'm glad I got to see my favourite band of the last decade and one of my favourite live acts ever one last time... in New York with a friend I hadn't seen in far too long to boot.

Back on the home front, there's not a whole lot (but still enough to keep you occupied) going on this weekend, but next weekend is jam packed.

There's a bunch of shows on Friday the 15th, but I'd point out two fundraisers that are both for causes worth throwing some cash at and also boast pretty sweet line ups.

Wizerdz, Mode Moderne, Phonecalls, and Keep Tidy play the ANZA, which is a Music Waste fundraiser.

And, Hospital Blonde, Feral Living, Watermelon, Koban, and Murhaus play Gam Gallery to raise money for Britney from Koban's aunt, who has cancer.

Saturday the 16th is record store day, which means Red Cat, Zulu, Neptoon, Scratch, and Zoo Zhop are all hosting in-stores with some of the city's best bands (see the sidebar for the full line ups) and a ton of rad looking exclusive releases (PDF). I'm stoked to see Boogie Monster perform their long overdue debut LP in full at Zoo Zhop and pick up copies of the Nirvana, Sonic Youth, and KRS compilation reissues.

now playing - Pina Chulada - Someone Like You

honey, i don't know why i get so mean

2011-03-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update to say that the Lotus Hotel has been sold... which means Lotus, Honey, and Lick are all under new ownership. And, that means that this past week's Ice Cream Social, Hump, and Honey Lung Thursday were the last ones (at least at their current venues). It also means that tonight's edition of Mod Club is the last one.

No official word on what the venues will be in their new forms, but I heard a rumour that the Honey space is set to become an "Irish sports bar"... in case it was too full when you dropped by Ceili's... or Smiley's... or...

And so this isn't a total bummer, check out Tristan's SXSW recap over at Winnie Cooper.

now playing: Dominique Young Unique - Immaculate

input select

2011-03-04T14:25:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, W2 hosts Utopia Festival: Women in Digital Culture. The festival features live performances, DJ and VJ sets, a conference, and a mobile dance party. Check out all the details here.

On March 18th, VIVO hosts the Drop In/Drop Out Video Arts Expo. Animal Bodies, Channels 3+4, Magneticring, Holzkopf, and Crystal Dorval all play live, but the focus is a showcase of interactive audio/visual work. If you've got a talent for the latter, you can apply to be part of the exhibition here.

Oh, and another reminder that tonight there's a whole wack of awesome shows, so go see some live music.

now playing: Adele feat. Childish Gambino - Rolling in the Deep (Jamie xx Remix)

friday, i'm in love

2011-03-02T15:01:00.000-08:00

So, I don't often talk about out-of-town shows (especially ones that I can't attend), but 1) this poster is awesome and 2) it ties into this Friday

If, by chance, you're not from Vancouver and are going to be in Austin for SXSW, get a great introduction to what's going on here by checking out the Music Waste/Olio Festival joint showcase.

Us locals can get a preview on Friday at the Cobalt at the MW/Olio joint fundraiser... and, hey, if that's not up your alley (or even if it is), your choices on the 4th sort of border on overwhelming. My current plans are to be at the Biltmore for B-Lines/White Lung/Nu Sensae, but I reserve the right to change my mind and head over to the Lion's Den for Koban... or the CBC for Owen Pallett or... you get the point.

now playing - Muscles - Brilliance

basement mold

2011-02-21T11:44:00.000-08:00

I'm only about four songs into my first listen (though at about 1-minute a piece, it'll be done by the time I finish writing this), so I can't give you any sort of in-depth review, but if you're into no-nonsense punk that's decorated with some awesome, not-stereotypically hardcore vocals, you should give this a listen... right now.

Stream it or download right up there or via Keep Tidy's BandCamp.

now playing: Keep Tidy - Kill Whitey

rainforts

2011-02-19T13:59:00.000-08:00

A friendly reminder.

idle tomorrows

2011-02-17T14:57:00.000-08:00

Just a heads up that the Sadies had to cancel all of their forthcoming Western Canadian dates after Dallas Good broke his leg. Refunds at point of purchase. Look for a new date in June.

we'll talk about the weather or how the weather used to be

2011-02-08T12:21:00.000-08:00

A few shows of note:

First, is Thor Fest, a February 27th fundraiser so this fuzzy little dude can get a tooth extracted and avoid serious medical complications. Half Chinese, We Make Earthquakes, Katie Caron et al., Amor de Cosmos, Fine Mist, Jenny Ritter, Nihilist Party, Aunts & Uncles, Haiku Charlie, Unreliable Narrator, Garland & Yarn, and Elliot & Jo (from SSRIs) all lend their talents. It's a house show at Sophia & 13th and everything gets rolling at 3pm.

Scratch/Interurban Gallery hosts the release party of the Mint/CiTR Pop Alliance Compilation LP on February 24th. The show (thus far) features Slam Dunk, Role Mach, Shane Turner Overdrive, and Fanshaw, with more to be announced. You can check the compilation details here.

now playing: Cut Copy Take Me Over

been reaching for my baby

2011-02-03T13:28:00.000-08:00

I made it down to the Media Club on Monday night to catch Tennis. I missed the harmonies that help make the record so great, but Alaina Moore's singing was so strong live, it almost made up for the absent extra vocal parts. They played (more or less) the whole record, a cover I didn't recognize, and a couple of new tunes for a set that was concise enough for a weekday (and for a new band), but long enough for a proper headlining set. The Media Club was packed out for ~~a Monday~~any day, which was nice to see.

Unrelated to live music, because there's no band this month, but I'll be playing records (note: not "DJing," DJ's can competently match beats either... at least with the aid of a computer. I can just play records) at Damaged Goods at the Astoria tomorrow night. If you too think that it's appropriate to follow "Glad Girls" with Robyn and then with a Misfits record during a dance party, come down early. If not, come down anyways, because Dustin and Jake will be playing songs that normal people like to dance to.

Somehow, I got nominated in the CBC Radio 3 "Best Canadian Music Website" Poll. I'm flattered, mystery nominator, but let's keep it real here and all throw the local vote behind Winnie Cooper. Ok? Sweet.

now playing: Rihanna feat. Drake - "What's My Name"

with you

2011-01-28T14:06:00.000-08:00

Just a quick heads up to say that Seapony lead singer, Jen, has the flu, so they won't be playing tonight at the Cobalt for No More Strangers. If you were looking forward to this one like I was, you'll get your chance in April.

Fine Mist move up to headline the show and Candles will now play after Little Jungles, so it's definitely still worth checking out.

Plus, those Winnie Cooper dudes have had a tough week between this and the Das Racist cancellation, so come down and buy them a beer*

now playing: RadioZero

*Note: they probably have a bar tab, so just come down and drink beer and party hard to cheer them up.

take me away to nowhere plains

2011-01-20T23:04:00.000-08:00

So, I rarely point out new shows, just because pointing out every new show takes a ridiculous amount of time, but it's worth noting that the Pixies are at the Orpheum on May 3rd, where they'll play Doolittle front-to-back. Presale tix are on tomorrow at the ungodly hour of 9am EST (yeah, you read that right) at their official website and the regular on-sale is a week later (though at 9am local time).

The first time I saw the Pixies on their initial reunion tour, I didn't think I could pick a better setlist--they played pretty much everything I could have dreamed of hearing. But now that this reunion seems to have become pretty permanent, I can't think of a better tour to see them on than this one.

between the bars

2011-01-17T15:44:00.000-08:00

There are a pair of open houses this week, where the City will be presenting its progress on a review of live performance regulations for Vancouver and soliciting feedback. Among other things, this will effect the sort of quasi-legal (to just straight up illegal) venues that have been popping up and, subsequently getting busted, for years and making it easier for combination studio/performance spaces (and the like) to run legitimately.

The first one goes down tonight at.. er... right now (sorry) until 7pm at Mt. Pleasant Community Centre. It's a drop-in thing, not a formal meeting with a set agenda, so if you're reading this at work, you can still drop by after.

The second one is Wednesday at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre Salons (650 Hamilton St.) from 4pm-7pm.

now playing: Robyn - With Every Heartbeat (Acoustic)

raindrops in the cold

2011-01-15T16:01:00.000-08:00

From the Biltmore:

It's terribly unfortunate that we have to make this announcement. After a wonderful show Thursday night, Red Cedar had their van broken into and thousands of dollars worth of gear was stolen.

Below is a list from the band of what was stolen. Any help in recovering any of these items would be hugely appreciated! If you see any of these items suddenly appear anywhere, please get in touch!

Fender Precision Bass
1974 Fender Mustang Guitar
American Fender Stratocaster
Custom Fender Telecaster
Boutique Guitar Pedals
Digital Hammond Organ

I'll try to get better descriptions, but if you see a deal on one of these fine instruments that seems to good to be true, it might be. Get in touch with the band here or the Biltmore here.

now playing: Spiritualized - Stay With Me

this will be our year, took a long time to come

2011-01-11T22:36:00.001-08:00

Rose Melberg (feat. her mom) - "This Will Be Our Year (Zombies Cover)"

I was going to post a big rambling thing about how this song is near and dear to my heart. Instead, I think I'll keep it brief. I thought about this song a lot this past year, and I can't think of a better way to usher in the new year than with Rose's cover of it.

there's nothing but rain here on the west coast

2011-01-09T23:47:00.000-08:00

Jody Glenham - "Snow in New York City"

One of the things that sort of turns me off a lot of singer/songwriter stuff is the way it's produced. I guess, save for maybe alt-country types, there's not the same "jump in a van and tour" culture as there is for bands of other stripes, so, even in today's climate, they're more likely to feel like they have to "play the game" when it comes to making records. With that said, I really love the way this track sounds. There's nothing slick about the bedroom recording (and, Hell, there's nothing complex about the lyrics, either), but what it does have is all it needs. I was saying yesterday (and have said before) that one of the things that I love about Spoon is the fact that they know when not to play and this is a great, non-Britt Daniels, example of that.

Perhaps the timing is a bit off, since there is supposedly going to be snow out here on the West coast this week, and if it's anything like this it might be prettier than New York. This is still a great song though. Cop it on iTunes

Completely unrelated, but at least equally awesome: Music Waste is now accepting submissions for this year's festival. Send a link to your music (and I believe the official request was to forgo press releases or EPKs or press photos and that kind of junk--just the goods) to submissions@musicwaste.ca

Hope 2011's treated you okay so far, internet.

now playing: Spoon - Everything Hits At Once

out of the darkness and into the fire

2010-12-29T15:03:00.000-08:00

Since it's almost that time, here's a quick recap of what's going down on New Year's Eve:

The Biltmore hosts the 4th(?) edition of the Winter Social, Ice Cream Social's annual December 31st bash. Tix are available at Scratch, Red Cat, Zulu, and the Biltmore off-sales counter.

Unfamiliar, eatArt, Love Dancing, and Arbutus records are throwing a pretty great looking party at the eatArt labs. Paula from Silly Kissers, Blue Hawaii, Grimes, Resorts, Makeout Videotape, and Sean Nicholas Savage all play live and Cadence Weapon and No Gold both take turns behind the decks. Tix are... sold out. Sorry.

NYE at the Waldorf features John Maus, Geneva Jaccuzi, and TRS-80 live, along with a whole wack of DJs in the various rooms. Tix are available here.

Goody and the Winnie Cooper gang host Blood Diamonds, Oh No! Yoko, and Autacoid. Tix are available here.

The Railway hosts Fuzzcat, Go Ghetto Tiger, and Strange Magic. Tix are available at the Railway or by phone at (604) 681-1625.

And, the Astoria welcomes 2011 with Rad Times New Year's. Tix are at the door.

now playing: the Walkmen - "In the New Year"

unhappy birthday

2010-12-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

This isn't a live show, but Saturday, if love all things Morrissey, or alternately, like me, think he's a bit of a dick, but love his music, head down the the Astoria on Satruday for Merry Smithsmas: the Smiths Xmas Party. It's $6 to get in, but if you wear a Moz style shirt or come clutching a bouquet, you'll get a break on cover. It's free if you have a Smiths or Morrissey tattoo.

Speaking of free, Zulu hosts a free show with the Salteens on Sunday. Show starts at 6pm.

Oh, and it wouldn't be right for me to neglect mentioning Chris-a-riffic's set at Ben Lai's birthday soiree at the Railway last night. The music, which was, as per usual, pretty great, wasn't the story, but Chris had some comedy gold going with his stage banter. Here's hoping the wisecracks sneak their way into all of his sets from here on out.

now playing: Robyn - Call Your Girlfriend

hastings sunrise: another poll of local favourites

2010-12-06T15:31:00.000-08:00

Earlier this month, I put out the call to let some people know that after a three year hiatus, I was bringing back the (once) annual poll of local favourites.

As with past lists, contributors were asked to list their top ten "hottest" local acts, ranked 1-10, with 10 points being assigned to 1st (9 for second, etc) and both "hottest" and "local" being up to them to define.

In the end, 84 bands all got at least one of the 150 possible votes. So, while there was some agreement at the top, opinions reflected just how awesome and varied the local scene is right now.

This year, Discorder drove that point home even further by doing a similar poll among their writers. While there's some crossover, you'll also find a lot of names that aren't here and vice versa.

Thanks to Eric Axen from Weird Pop Vancouver and Hermetic, Gregory Adams from the Straight and Healthy Students, Trevor Risk from ION and the Good News, Tristan Orchard from Winnie Cooper and DBL Dragon, Cameron Reed aka Babe Rainbow from Music Waste (and too many other things to list), Aaron Schubert from the Biltmore, Mark Richardson from Expressway to My Skull and Pop Drones, Dustin Bromley from Damaged Goods, Prohab and Keep Tidy, Shea Dahl from AMS Events and the Vogue, Sean Orr aka Tassels from Scout, David Mattatall from NMR Records and Zoo Zhop, Sean Owen from A Reminder, Alex Hudson from Chipped Hip and Exclaim, Tyler Fedchuk from Radio Zero and Wild Zero, and Gord McCullough.. umm.. man about town.

Since some of the judges also make music, it should be noted that nobody voted for their own band (though some of them probably should have) and I didn't vote for Fine Mist.

And, hey, it's Christmas time, why not give the gift of local music? A lot of these acts have music out that's available at the many fine, independent retailers around town, and you're about to get a whole wack of great suggestions.

30. Joyce Collingwood (10pts/3 votes)
"These ladies were the talk of the town after Music Waste 2010, with good reason." - Dustin
"Go see them and pick up some change, if people still do that" - Gord

Watch: "Yaletown Yuppies" (live at the Biltmore)

29. V. Vecker (11pts/2 votes)(tie)
"The Leonard Bernstein of noise" - Trevor
"I think time will affirm how lucky we are to have someone this creatively brilliant in our backyard." - Gord

28. Timecopz (11pts/2 votes)(tie)
"One of the best bands in the overcrowded garage-punk scene." - Mark

Watch: "In the Morning" (live at the Biltmore)

27. My Friend Wallis (11pts/2 votes)(tie)
"Tropical mango fuzz pop harmonies." - Tristan

Watch: "Hiding" (live at Scratch on Dick's)

26. Black Wizard (11pts/3 votes)
"Tons of press, heavy ass live show, and an incredible ability to play immaculate metal riffs these guys had a pretty huge year. Thanks for the record, John." - Cam
"These guys make men want to buy guitars and women want to buy some sexist comment." - David
"The only band in town that adds inches to your dick." - Gord

Watch: "Drugs" (live at Pat's)

21. Oh No! Yoko (12pts/2 votes)(tie)

Watch: "Courtyard! Bankrupt"

21. World Club (12pts/2 votes)(tie)
"Have you heard their Two Inputs EP? No? What is wrong with you?" - Dustin
"Download their free ep if you haven't already!" - Eric

Watch: "Mountain Man"

21. Flash Palace (12pts/2 votes)(tie)
"These kids are way too talented" - Mark

Watch: live at Goody

21. The SSRIs (12pts/2 votes)(tie)
"Did you see the window display at Vinyl Records? It's fucking adorable." - Alex

Watch: "CPDEP (live at the Suicide Club"

21. Shimmering Stars (12pts/2 votes)(tie)
"I’ve only heard four of their songs but this city needs a dreamy pop band. Ranked high despite a hokey-as-shit music video." - Trevor

Watch: "I'm Gonna Try"

20. Shi Yi (13pts/2 votes)
"Dark reflections on the opposite sex." - David

19. MT-40 (13pts/4 votes)

Watch: Isabella Rossellini (live at the Astoria)"

17. Defektors (14pts/2 votes)
"I think their recent LP, The Bottom Of The City, will go down as one of the all-time great Northwestern punk records." - Mark

Watch: "Doomsday Girl (live at Vic Square)"

17. Humans (14pts/2 votes)
"I can’t wait until these guys become huge and (in classic Vancouver tradition) everybody in the city decides to hate them." - Trevor
"LP x 2011?" - Tristan

Watch: "Bike Home"

16. Myths (15pts/2 votes)(tie)

Watch: live at the Biltmore

15. Womankind (15pts/2 votes)(tie)
"Heaviest new band in the city" - Cam
"Some of Vancouver’s old hands make a stab at Amphetamine Reptile-style muscle rock and pull it off better than the originators." - Mark
"Best band in Vancouver and I am not sure if they or anybody else knows it." - Gord

13. Heavy Chains (15pts/3 votes)(tie)
"Somehow even more potent and frightening than Andrea’s other band, Nu Sensae" - Mark

Watch: live at Funky Winkerbean's

13. Black Mountain (15pts/3 votes)(tie)
"They really could earn this spot just based on the badassness Wilderness Heart's cover but the record is just as awesome. In my mind, they're the most Vancouver-y of Vancouver bands." - Sean Owen

Watch: "Old Fangs"

12. Needles//Pins (15pts/4 votes)

Watch: live at Olio

11. Teen Daze (15pts/4 votes)
"For tha kidz." - David
"Is there anyone he hasn't done a remix for?" - Alex

Watch: Watch: "Shine On You Crazy White Cap"

10. No Gold (16pts/3 votes)
"The minor lineup change was the important thing that happened for them this year. They've moved past their brand of pop-icalia and into something even more experimental and weird while maintaining their pop sensibilities. I can't wait for an official release." - Cam

Watch: live on Thunderbird Radio Hell

Photo by Luna Nuhic

9. Peace (18pts/2 votes)
"I'm just glad they're alive after their van flipped on the way to Sled Island. I'm also glad they are making some of the catchiest weirdo rock in Vancouver." - Cam
"They deserve way more recognition than they're currently getting." - Dustin

8. Brasstronaut (22pts/3 votes)
"Award-winning." - Alex

Watch: "Old World Lies"

6. Babe Rainbow (23pts/ 4 votes)(tie)
"Lots of shows, lots of press, and a really fucking scary EP."

Watch: "Shaved"

6. Watermelon (23pts/4 votes)(tie)
"Goth surf." - Tristan
"This twice unfortunately named group of ne'er do well youngnz blew the shit out of every band at music waste and write great songs." - Gord

Photo by Ben Marvin

5. White Lung (26pts/6 votes)
"Mish Way is a snarling, dream of a front woman, and can bury any other punk lady in the contemporary world. The hidden treat of White Lung is guitarist Kenny McCorkell, who shreds like nobody else in the city." - Trevor
"New guitarist, new releases, and grinding on the road for the better part of the year has put White Lung in position where it feels like they could blow up at anytime." - Cam

Watch: "Loose Heels"

4. Japandroids (29pts/3 votes)
"With all the touring they do, they're a little more like nomads than "local". Dave is quite possibly one of the most friendly Vancouverites I know." - Dustin
"What else needs to be said? Best band this city has produced in ages." - Shea
"Even without a new album to promote, Japandroids still managed to be my favourite local act of the year. Three new seven inches, a vinyl reissue of those early EPs, and some memorable shows in Vancouver all reminded me why I love this band so much. Oh yeah, Younger Us was one of my favourite songs of 2010." - Sean Owen

Watch: "Racer X (Big Black Cover - live on KEXP)"

3. Nu Sensae (30pts/4 votes)
"Going really strong for two years straight." - David
"This band plays 13 times a week and has an ethic that makes everybody else look stupid." - Gord

Watch: "Don't Panic (live at the Peanut Gallery)"

2. Fine Mist (35pts/5 votes)
"No other Vancouver band has such a devoted fan club." - Dustin
"Hard not to love the songs." - Shea
"Bollocks to conflict of interest! So hot." - Alex
"First up, Public Domain is a great record. Second, when I think about Vancouver bands I never think about a band that sounds like Fine Mist. This is, of course, one of the reasons they deserve to be on the list." - Sean Owen

Watch: "Murder Murder (live at the Cobalt)"

1. Apollo Ghosts (58pts/8 votes)
"They owned this year" - Eric
"If they were able to commit to being a touring band, they would have had a massive year. Probably the album of the year (and their Olio gig was incredible)." - Shea
"One or two 'big' reviews away from blowing up." - Sean Owen.
"Old folks make good music." - David
"I've spent almost two years justifying why Apollo Ghosts are the best band in Vancouver/Canada/the world. They just are." - Alex

Watch: "Thing You Go Through (live at the Princeton Pub)"

And finally, here's the list of bands that received at least one vote:
Walter TV, Animal Bodies, Boogie Monster, Dead Ghosts, Duffy & the Doubters, Gigi, Sun Wizard, Top Less Gay Love Tekno Party, Young Liars, Supercassette, Sex Church, Pointed Sticks, The Pack AD, You Say Party!, Dan Mangan, Eating Out, Abramson Singers, AHNA, Aunts & Uncles, Bad Fate, Baptists, Basketball, Blood Diamonds, B-Lines, Bogus Tokus, Boy Voyage, Bummer High, Channels 3x4, Christopher Smith, Congress, Cowards, Crystal Swells, DB Buxton, Dbl Dragon, Friendshop & the Fawn, Gross Misconduct, Hot Moonbeams, Iam Wyatt, Junior Major, Koban, Lord Beginner, Manic Attracts, Megasoid, Milky Way, Mode Moderne, Mother Mother, n.213, No UFOs, The Pack AD, Pointed Sticks, Reflektionss, Shearing Pinx, Slam Dunk, Speakerbruiser Rob, Stefana Fratila, Student Teacher, Twin Crystals, Vincent Parker, and Woodhands

and if i seemed to be confused, i didn't mean to be with you

2010-12-03T15:24:00.000-08:00

Leah Abramson - "Joey (Concrete Blonde Cover)"

This and a whole bunch more photos from the CiTR Fundrive Finale at the Biltmore on the CiTR website.

stormy high

2010-12-02T21:25:00.000-08:00

I'm working on something else right now, but here's a quick recap of Black Mountain last night.

I made it to the Commodore about halfway through Black Angels' set, which was, as expected, a very droney affair. They did a good job of complimenting the headliners without being too similar, dialing back the Sabbath influence and filling it in with a healthy dose of Spacemen 3.

If you're from Vancouver, you probably already know that Black Mountain are one of the best bands in the city. And, they had no trouble proving it again last night. I could have done with a little something from the earlier part of the catalogue, but the last two full lengths seem to fit together a little better stylistically, and since they're supporting their newest, the setlist choices made sense. Besides, the show closing cover of "Tomorrow Never Knows" with the Black Angels made up for any minor quibbles with the song choices.

On an unrelated note, congratulations to White Lung, whose amazing record, It's the Evil was named Exclaim's punk record of the year.

An on a semi-related to that note, I wrote the write-up for Sleigh Bells's Treats which was voted the 16th best pop/rock record of 2010.

Big update... I was going to say tomorrow, but who am I kidding... big update soon. In the spirit of the (year end poll) season.

now playing: the Walkmen - Angela Surf City

90's kids

2010-11-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

A reminder that Fine Mist finally celebrates the release of Public Domain tomorrow night at Glory Days at the Biltmore. No Gold also plays and doors are at 10pm instead of the usual 11pm, so get there early.

Megan and Jay will be performing the whole record with a full band.

Also, check out their BandCamp page, where any aspiring producers (or people who just really like Megan's singing) can download just the vocal tracks from the record for easy remixing.

Last night, I made it down to the Biltmore for most of the CiTR Fundrive finale. There were a few people taking videos, so I'll keep it quick and dirty by singling out that Beekeeper's rendition of Our Lady Peace's "Superman's Dead," Leah Abramson covering Concrete Blonde's "Joey," and Rick White's Hair (feat. Adrian from Apollo Ghosts on vocals) doing Weezer's "El Scorcho" were the highlights for the part I was there for.

This question was bandied about quite a bit last night, so I thought I'd pose it here too: if you were going to cover two 90s songs, what would they be?

fire up the blades

2010-11-24T19:41:00.000-08:00

On Saturday at the Astoria, there's a show that some of you might be interested in. "North American Spearhead" and "Wolvozomberine" headline a show with Gloryhole and Broken Hands. Advance tix are at Bonerattle Music on the Drive.

On December 12th, the Biltmore hosts a vintage good fair and also music by Juvenile Hall, the Burnettes, and Eating Out. It goes from 10am-5pm, presumably with the music spread out over the afternoon.

And, last but not least, extend the season in which you got to work all bleary eyed and hungover every Wednesday by celebrating Ben Lai's birthday with Safety Show, Fine Mist, WZERDZ, and Chris-a-riffic at the Railway on December 14th, which also happens to be the Tuesday after the Shindig finale.

now playing: the Canucks vs Avs

honk the horn

2010-11-18T20:09:00.000-08:00

Saturday, 79 E. Pender hosts Alternate Realities, a night of film and music with Josh Stevensen, Mel Paget, Cameron Borthwick, Sean Orr, Tom Whalen & Ben Jacques, Rob Ondzik, and Evan Mcdowell & Felix Machinations all trying their hand at performing live scores to various visuals.

On Sunday, head down to VIVO between noon-4pm for a record swap that's part of the CiTR Fundrive (which is on now).

Mint celebrates their annual "Ridiculously Early Xmas Party" on December 3rd with the Evaporators, Hot Panda, Carolyn Mark, Fanshaw, Kellarissa, Geoff Berner, and Laura Barrett.

now playing: Sleigh Bells - Rill Rill

highschool tattoo

2010-11-11T23:04:00.000-08:00

Tight Solid are offering their new record, Walk it Off as a free download. Stream it above or click through to download the tracks.

I actually haven't had a chance to listen to it myself yet (though that's going to change at work tomorrow), but when you can grab the whole thing, you don't need my opinion.

now playing: White Lung - Atlanta

waterworks

2010-11-09T16:23:00.000-08:00

Starting things off on a sombre note, with the news that the "force behind the scenes" at Copperspine Records, Tony Luscombe, passed away suddenly last week. Some of his friends are getting together to remember Tony at a show on November 14th at the Railway, where you can come down to celebrate his life and enjoy some of the great music he helped put out. I hope you'll join me in sending sincere condolences to his friends and family.

Here's Leah Abramson performing a song from my favourite Copperspine release.

If you enjoyed XO Fridays at the Waldorf the last two weekends, you're about to be disappointed, because it's been canceled due to "not fitting with (the Waldorf's) 'cultural programming.'" On the bright side, the Maluca/DJ Eleven show that was supposed to go down at the Waldorf is now free at Fortune on the same night.

On November 16th, CiTR starts their annual "fundrive," which culminates with one hell of a show on the 25th. Check out the expanding list of bands on Facebook and get prepared to hear them all covering hits (and probably some not so popular songs) of the 90s.

now playing: Guided by Voices - 14 Cheerleader Coldfront

buttons

2010-11-05T16:23:00.000-07:00

It's Friday, here's some new(ish) and free music:

Jody Glenham's new video for "Buttons"

And, on a slightly different musical wavelength, an entire EP from Crystal Swells, just in time for their show tonight.

now playing: The Knocks - Dancing with the DJ

untogether

2010-10-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

Just a heads up that Women have canceled their early show at the Biltmore. Nu Sensae and Makeout Videotape have now been added to Glory Days, which opens at 9pm instead of midnight.

Exclaim! is reporting that the band had a blowout last night on stage in Vic and may now be broken up.

Unfortunately, since they sold so many tix for Glory Days, the Biltmore won't be able to honour both Women and Glory Days tickets, so if you had tickets to the show, you'll have to grab a refund at your point of purchase.

die, die my darling

2010-10-28T22:00:00.000-07:00

In case you forgot, Halloween's right around the corner. Here's (most) of what's going down...

Friday:

A new My!Gay!Husband! weekly XO christens the brand new Waldorf one day ahead of the official grand opening. Black Wizard, Heavy Chains, and War Baby play live early (8pm-midnight) and there's DJs in all three rooms until 2am. Check the Facebook event page (which, appropriately, currently boasts 666 "attending") for all the details.

Mode Moderne, Dead Ghosts, Cowards, Modern Creatures, Manic Atracts play an all covers show at the Astoria.

Fortune hosts the Team Canada DJ's Happy Ending Halloween. No live acts, but you can get the whole DJ line up here.

The Commercial Drive legion hosts the Witches and Warlocks Ball with BlackBerry Wood, Creaking Planks, and Timothy Wisdom.

Saturday:

The big one is the Waldorf's official grand opening. It's free, Rodney Graham, Animal Bodies, and Joyce Collingwood all play live, and you can expect that it'll be packed... so get their early if you want to get in.

Glory Days celebrates All Hallows Eve with Neverland, a Michael Jackson cover band, and Bogus Tokus performing all punk covers as Harsh Tokes.

The Chapel hosts the Heebeegeebees Finale Party with Love & Electrik and Peter Breeze.

And, Head Hits Concrete, State of Minefield, Sick, and Hand of the Horsewitch play Funky Winkerbean's.

Let Me Buy U, Anne Drank Vol. 2 (Halloween Edition) by Babe Rainbow

If you need a Halloween soundtrack, and aren't using this weekend as an excuse to play the Misfits for 48-hours straight, Babe Rainbow has 45-minutes of spooky chopped and screwed goodness via the second installment of the Let Me Buy U, Anne Drank mixtape series. Click the link above to download it.

now playing: Misfits - Skulls

2010-10-26T16:24:00.001-07:00

Suspiros de Chile from basketball on Vimeo.

New stuff from Basketball. "Suspiros de Chile" is another insane, electro banger from the worldly (now) quartet. A new song from Basketball is always good news in my books, but this one is extra special, because it's the first release from their forthcoming full-length.

Check the video above and download the mp3 here.

o wake

2010-10-22T15:59:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of things I could say about a given band, but one of the strongest statements you can make about anything is to put your money where your mouth is. So, while I've sung the praises of Fine Mist on many occasions, this time my opinion comes backed by sizable chunk of my expendable income. Quite a few months ago now, I was drunkenly (the state when all of my best/worst music related ideas are formed) chatting with Megan about the album that she and Jay were putting the finishing touches on. As my state of mind at the time was fairly one track, namely, "when in the Hell can I get this record," when she told me they were having trouble finding a label, I immediately slurred, "I want to put it out."

There's two things to note here. One, thankfully, she didn't hold me exactly to my word, because putting out an LP (on 180g vinyl, no less) is way more expensive than I naively thought, so there's no way I could afford the entire thing. And two, while that story makes it sound like a combination of my big mouth and a few too many roped me into this, I couldn't be prouder to be a part of Public Domain.

I could go on about the music, but I'm obviously biased, so I'll leave you with the Straight, who called the record "ludicrously fun" and Exclaim! who deemed it "one of the best records to come out of the West Coast this year". Honestly though, what do critics know? So, head over to the CBC Radio 3 website, where you can stream the whole thing.

You can order Public Domain online by following the directions here, pick it up at one of the bands shows (their next one is this Saturday at the China Cloud), or buy it from Red Cat, Scratch, Zoo Zhop, or Zulu. Or, if you really want, and you live in Mt. Pleasant/Fairview or are at UBC during the day, I'll bring one to you for $12 (how's that for service?).

Megan and Jay play tomorrow night at the China Cloud with Lakefield and PaperSailBoat and they'll be having an official-a-few-months-late release party on November 27th at Glory Days with No Gold.

now playing: Fine Mist - Palm Trees

metal detector

2010-10-19T16:11:00.000-07:00

First, bad news: the old Scratch space (christened, appropriately, Scratch on Dick's after the retail space moved to Gastown and it started hosting shows), is no more.

The Duffy & the Doubters show scheduled for this Saturday is now at Anti-Social and they're looking for venues for the rest.

Now, good news: the Waldorf celebrates its reopening (though they'll be officially be open for business the night before) with a massive free Halloween party on October 30th. Rodney Graham, Animal Bodies, and Joyce Collingwood perform live, but there's a lot of other stuff going on. Check out the full itinerary on Facebook.

And, as a reminder to myself, because I always find a way to miss it, on November 13th, SK Robot put on their annual, "Guided by Robots" show at the ANZA, featuring a set of GbV covers by the band and the GbV karaoke following. As always, all proceed go towards the Vancouver Rape Relief and Women's Shelter.

the club is open

2010-10-11T14:52:00.000-07:00

On Friday, I made the drive down to Seattle to catch a couple of shows. The first, was at the Showbox Market for Corin Tucker's first tour post-Sleater-Kinney. The show was a lot like the album; if you were expecting S-K, you probably came away disappointed, but taken on its own merits, it was pretty great. Since 1,000 Years is her solo debut, she played it (I think) in its entirety, with lead off single "Doubt" being the predictable highlight.

The encore was made up of a trio of covers: John Doe's "Golden State" with Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder, "It's Obvious" by Au Pairs, and a Sheila E song to close things out.

Pearl Jam was my favourite band in high school, so I'm always unreasonably excited about an Eddie Vedder cameo.

After a Saturday that involved seriously good pizza, one of the best beers in N. America (for half price--now that you've clamped down on DUIs, can we have happy hour back, please BC government?), and being thrilled to find out that Seattle gets the CBC and therefore, Hockey Night in Canada (though less thrilled with the shootout result), we went to the other Showbox for Guided by Voices.

In the last 5-6 years, I've ended up seeing a lot of reunion shows. Most of them have been pretty great. I mean, nostalgia's a powerful thing, so even if a band is less than enthused (see: Pavement), you almost always come away from these types of things glad that you went. By contrast, while they could have got away by backpacking a less than stellar showing on the amazing setlist, Uncle Bob and the gang were in top form.

Visually, after six years away from the limelight (well, sort of away from the limelight in Pollard's case), the band is showing their age, but as far as their performance went, they haven't missed a step, even throwing down, despite a recent ridiculous Seattle ordinance that bans drinking on stage (are you trying to be Vancouver, Seattle?), in classic GbV style, by downing enough beers to KO most people.

It's hard to pick a highlight. When Greg Demos started plucking out the opening bass line to "A Salty Salute" to start things off, I was giddy, but Pollard and Tobin Sprout sharing vocals on "14 Cheerleader Coldfront," bouncing along with strangers during "Game of Pricks" or any number from the 39 tracks they threw down on Saturday could be a singled out.

Like I said, it's always great to hear old favourites live, especially in this sort of "it's been awhile" setting. It's also always amazing to be at a show where both the audience and the band seem absolutely thrilled to be there. It's rare to get both. The utter joy, both on stage and in the audience, combined with the opportunity to shout along to "Tractor Rape Chain" (and many, many more) was something truly special.

We ran into a lot of familiar faces from Vancouver, hopefully you were there too.

now playing: Guided by Voices - Gold Star for Robot Boy (live in Dallas 09/29/10)

string lake

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

Tonight the Chapel kicks of a month's worth of Thursday (art and music) shows called Heebeegeebees.

Babe Rainbow and Tassels are up tonight, White Lung and Koban (that's enough to get me out on a weekday) follow on the 14th, Myths and Haunted Beard play the 21st, and Raccoons and DBL Dragon play the 28th. The whole thing concludes on the 30th for a Halloween party featuring Love & Electrik and Peter Breeze.

Ache records is turning 10 years old this year! To celebrate, they're having a massive sale on all their releases from October 15th-November 26th. In addition to some shows (Oct 15th/16th - check the sidebar), there will be an Ache night at Zulu on October 21st from 7-9pm and also an Ache pop-up shop at Toast Collective on Oct 20th and 27th and Nov 3rd and 10th.

now playing: Needles//Pins - Rabies Jump

we played oregon trail on our macintosh

2010-10-05T00:07:00.001-07:00

So, I'll be the first guy to tell you that I haven't been on top of new music lately, so forgive me if you've heard this one already. But, I would be remiss if I didn't mention how great Oh No! Yoko was on Friday at the Astoria. They're a trio and they make wonderfully catchy, frantic sounding pop songs. And, perhaps the most encouraging part is that they're not even out of high school (hopefully that doesn't get the bar in trouble), so they've got many years ahead to hone a craft that sounds pretty goddamn honed already.

Because of their tender ages, I actually ended up missing part of their set (curfew, you know?), but I'll be damned sure to make it down good and early next time they play.

Check out the stand out, "90s Kids" (plus a few more) here.

now playing: Oh No! Yoko - 90's Kids

but i'm not working for you

2010-09-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

It's sort of unfortunately timed with this extra dose of summer that we're getting today, but tonight Zulu hosts a "vinyl appreciation night," featuring free drinks and discounts on wax from 7pm-9pm.

Also at Zulu, on Sunday at 4pm, they help celebrate the release of the book, The Top 100 Canadian Singles. No offense to the Guess Who, but the Band got robbed on that one.

And while we're talking Zulu, it's worth mentioning that Superchunk is doing an in-store on the 13th before their show at the Biltmore. They're on at 3pm, so you'll need to duck out of work/school early for that one.

now playing: Guided by Voices - Tractor Rape Chain (live last night[!] in Dallas)

laura palmer's prom

2010-09-27T23:46:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a job (music related or in various other vocations), the soon to be re-opened Waldorf Hotel is having a job fair on October 2nd

Also, not strictly music, but I am willing to highlight anything (Leah) Abramson (Singers) related. Leah (sans Singers) will be part of Brief Encounters 15, which takes twelve artists from various disciplines and pairs them off to collaborate on a performance a mere two weeks before their first show.

And, here's something you'll want to get on if you plan on attending: You Say Party!, MT-40, and Petroleum By-Product play a show sponsored by Scion at the Chapel. Since Toyota is footing the bill, you can get in for free by RSVP'ing here. Tyler Fedchuk spins between sets.

now playing: Spiritualized - Any Way That You Want Me (Troggs Cover)

the cars on fire and there's no driver at the wheel

2010-09-21T11:56:00.001-07:00

It's been almost 10-years since Godspeed You! Black Emperor played Vancouver (back before they misplaced the exclamation mark), and while it'll be a few months more before you can actually see them again, you can buy tickets for the February show at Zulu, Red Cat, Scratch, and from the Vogue box office on Saturday at 10am. (thanks Sean)

now playing: Idlewild - Actually, It's Darkness

call it something else

2010-09-20T15:24:00.000-07:00

A few quick things:

1) A reminder that Shindig continues with week #2 tomorrow. As a bonus, Tuesday's are also cask beer night at the Railway (they didn't get one last week, for some reason).

2) Quick (and almost exclusively local) picks for Olio:

Thursday:

The Abramson Singers (10:30pm at Guilt & Co) - Their latest record is amazing. Buy it)
Piper Davis (11pm at the Met)- Back from the depths of Alberta for one night only!
Koban (11:30pm at Lick) - I will watch Britt and Sam whenever I can.
Fine Mist (midnight at the Met) - I love their forthcoming LP so much, I'm helping them pay for it. Please also buy it (soon).
Shout Out Out Out Out (12:30am at 560) - Honestly, I haven't listened to their recorded output in ages, but they're always a good time live.
No Gold (1am at Honey) - Everyone is going to be at the Very Best, but if you're not there early, you're probably not getting in.

Friday

Graham Clark and Dave Shumka (7pm at the Rickshaw) - I know zip about comedy, but these two guys make me laugh. Also, last provincial election I (protest) voted for Graham.
Watermelon (10pm at Blim) - Their official write-up doesn't make any sense, as does not seeing them if you have a wristband.
Joyce Collingwood (11pm at the Astoria) - They totally killed it at Music Waste.
Nu Sensae (midnight at the Astoria) - I guess the fact that I haven't seen them play in too long isn't really a reason for you to see them. But the fact that they rule is.
White Lung (1am at the Astoria) - Just camp out at the Astoria all Friday, ok? See also: "early contender for local record of the year."

Saturday

B-Lines (10pm at the Media Club) - One of the city's most consistent(ly great) live acts.
Needles x Pins (11pm at the Media Club) - Download their EP and be convinced.
Defektors (midnight at the Media Club) - I mean, you're already going to be there, right?

3) And, since the Polaris winner gets announced tonight, check out this great article in Spinner that Carl Wilson penned.

4) Oh, and I don't know when Godspeed tix go on sale. But you will when I do, internet.

now playing: Guided by Voices - The Best of Jill Hives

tremor in the elevator

2010-09-14T16:26:00.000-07:00

A quick reminder that Shindig! starts tonight at the Railway at 9:30pm. Isla Taco's on first, then Keep Tidy at 10:30pm, and Clockmakers at 11:30pm, plus jokes for beer!

See you there.

we are the hardest saturday nights

2010-09-13T16:29:00.000-07:00

There are certain bands, some of whom I adore (the Weakerthans, the Hold Steady), and some of whom I'm pretty neutral on (the Mountain Goats, Why?), that seem to only have fans of the rabid variety. If you like them, chances are you love them, but if you're uninitiated and check them out live, you'll likely leave moderately entertained, but wondering just why everyone shoved up near the front was singing along so loudly. The Gaslight Anthem seem like one of those bands.

I wasn't compelled to check them out until Pinder posted a video of them performing "The '59 Sound" with Springsteen at Glastonbury on Tumblr (I mean, if it's good enough for ~~Pinder~~the Boss, it's good enough for me), but I've been a big supporter every since. With that in mind, I actually saw them twice this past weekend.

On Friday, my friend Neil was DJing UBC's Welcome Back BBQ, so I made like an undergrad and drank some shitty beer in a field before checking the band out for the first time. Proving that I'm pretty out of touch with what's popular, I was surprised to see how many excited students showed up to do the same (a much better idea than getting wasted and tearing up the frat village). Gaslight, for their part, were pretty great, but they really turned it up a notch the next evening.

The Commodore was packed on Saturday by the time I made my way down and whether it was because of the weekend, my previous theory about "certain bands," or a combination of both, there was a palpable buzz in the air as the Gaslight Anthem's set time drew near. And, while the college crowd's warm welcome seemed to keep the band in good spirits, they really fed off of the energy of the Saturday night audience, and rewarded us with a lengthy setlist that included pretty much everything I wanted to hear, plus a cover of "American Girl" and show closing rendition of the Who's "Baba O'Riley." Again, it could definitely be because I was already so high on them, but it was one of the most enjoyable shows I've seen in ages.

now playing: the Gaslight Anthem - She Loves You

in the moonlight, in the moonlight we can get it right

2010-09-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

Two quick things:

1) A gentle reminder that Fine Mist plays the Agro Cafe on Granville Island (re-named the Fringe Bar for Fringe Fest) tonight! Show starts at 10:30pm.

2) My review of the Block Party is up on Exclaim.ca

now playing: Fine Mist - Because It's the Ocean

everything's ending here

2010-09-09T16:10:00.000-07:00

When I was about 14-years-old, my cousin lent me every Pavement record (at that time everything from Westing to Wowee Zowee). I actually didn't fall in love with the band right away, but at some point "Summer Babe" grabbed me, and then "Silence Kit," and it went from there.

Fast-forward a few years to my final year of high school. Pavement was set to play the Vogue in support of Terror Twilight. The trouble was, I didn't have any friends who liked Pavement, and, at that age, the idea of going to a show by myself wasn't an option in my head. As luck would have it, about a week before the show, my cousin let me know she was going to be in town and would love to go to the show with me. Triumphant, I bussed to the mall to scoop up two tickets... only to find out that it had been sold out for weeks.

So, Tuesday night was about a decade in the making.

I like Quasi, but I was never a huge fan. That said, the combination of Pitchfork's 90's list-acular last week and the fact that post-Sleater-Kinney, I'll celebrate any opportunity to watch Janet Weiss do her thing behind a drum kit, made their opening set a welcome addition.

By all accounts, Pavement were never known for their live show. And, from a performance standpoint, they're still merely good, not great. They're not super tight (though, if they were, it wouldn't really be Pavement, would it?), Malkmus looks like he's bored most of the time, and save for Bob Nastanovich, the rest of guys aren't the liveliest bunch to take the stage together either. But that wasn't really the point.

While my friend (a longtime Pavement fan) quipped that it was "the make sure Bob has a retirement fund" tour, this was about giving fans who missed the band the first time around a chance to hear songs live for the first time and older fans a little nostalgia trip. And that's just what was delivered.

Sean has the full 27-song setlist (plus a review of his own) up. And, while I could quibble about what they did and didn't include, if you were coming for a greatest hits set, you more or less got what you paid for.

now playing: Spacehog - In the Meantime

the sun's loneliest day

2010-09-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

A big thanks to everyone that organized this year's Victory Square Block Party. And an extra special thanks to Mother Nature for not turning on her sprinklers until after the show.

I reviewed the show for Exclaim, so I'll leave it at that, since that should be up in the next day or so.

The show listings should be pretty up to date, but if there's something I missed, let me know. On that note, the listings will be updated regularly (probably more frequently than before), but I'm not going to do an announcement post every time, because that takes (relatively) long... and it's pretty tedious. Other than that, it's business as usual.

coming up soon

2010-09-05T13:12:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that this starts at 2pm. Oh, the weather? It's going to be fine today... and shitty for pretty much the rest of the week, so take advantage of today by watching great bands for free in the park.

don't call it come back

2010-09-03T15:08:00.000-07:00

2010-04-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

I'm out of town, but I just wanted to log on to say, Devon Clifford, RIP.

My sincerest condolences to his bandmates in YSP!WSD!, his family, and his friends.

basketball kids

2010-04-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

So, I've been kind of busy and when I haven't been busy, it's been really nice out. Sorry, internet.

But here's some stuff happening this weekend. And by "this weekend," I mean Saturday...

Courtney Wing, E.S.L., and Attics and Cellars play the Western Front.

Makeout Videotape, Koban, Cat Attack, and Telephone Girls play Zoo Zhop.

There's a Girls Rock Camp fundraiser at Roy G. Biv with Terrorbird and Telephone Girls.

Saturday's also Record Store Day, so before all of that happens, you can check out:
- Loscil, Ladyhawk, Dan Mangan, and Aunts & Uncles at Red Cat
- The Polished Rocks, Brainbolt, Petroleum By-Product, The Evaporators, Thee Manipulators, the Beladeans, the Vicious Cycles, the Jolts, and DB Buxton at Neptoon
- The Pack AD, Adelaide, and Kalki at Scratch

And here's the regular stuff

Regulars: April 12th-18th

Monday

Tuesday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Mecca Normal, Twin Crystals, Ahna, City Harvest Black
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in April?
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April?
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back in May

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Falklands, Tyranahorse, and Tight Solid
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back in May
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on April 30th

Saturday
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: back next week
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Heavy Chains

now playing R.E.M. - Be Mine

Sunday

burn it electric

2010-04-06T23:36:00.000-07:00

Regulars: March 29th-April 4th

Monday

Tuesday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Dead/Heat, Grasslords, Flat Grey, and Vena
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in April?
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April?
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back in May

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Noobie Noobinson and Marching Mind
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back on April 16th
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on April 30th
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?

Saturday
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Crystal Swells and Pompoir
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: MT-40

Sunday

now playing: The Ramones - I Wanna Be Your Boyfriend

vancouver is my hometown

2010-04-06T13:32:00.000-07:00

The weekly listings are forthcoming, but in the meantime, happy birthday, Vancouver. You look alright for 124.

night goat

2010-04-01T15:24:00.000-07:00

Let's start with some out of town news: the initial Sled Island line-up is out (with more bands to come later). The fest runs from June 30th-July 3rd in Calgary and it's always a great time. Four day passes are already on sale for $170 at the Sled Island website.

Parlour Steps, Lakefield, and Blank Cinema are at the Railway tonight.

The Idea of South and Ill & Bad play 1067 Granville St. on April 3rd. This one comes recommended by the lovely and talented Leah Abramson, whose word is good enough for me (and whose record you should check out if you haven't already).

The same night, Sleep Holiday, the Magician & the Gates of Love, and Shane Turner Overdrive play Little Mountain.

Also on Saturday, the Morning Benders play the Media Club.

Bleeder, Fuck No, Hari Legs, and Phonecalls play the Astoria on April 7th.

Buffalo Swans, Onward Voyageur, and Half Chinese play 121 Studios on April 9th.

Nomad, Ahna, and Stoned Eyes are at Pat's on the same night.

Fake Shark-Real Zombie, Minto, and Frances May are at the Biltmore on April 14th.

Blank Dogs, Cosmetics, Walter TV, and MT-40 play Reg's on April 16th.

Fuck Buttons are at the Biltmore on May 14th.

Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros play the Commodore on May 31st.

The Buzzcocks play Venue the same night.

Delta Spirit play an early show at Venue on June 12th.

Jamie Lidell is at Venue on June 14th.

Coco Rosie plays the Vogue on June 28th.

And the Local Natives show on March 28th has been moved from the Media Club to Venue... and it's now an early show.

now playing: Saturday Looks Good to Me - Summer Doesn't Count (Unless You're Here With Me)

suicide summer

2010-03-29T16:24:00.001-07:00

Regulars: March 29th-April 4th

Monday

Tuesday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Free Reed, the Worker & Rrkktttss, Reflektionss, Anju, Ora Corgan
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in April
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: Manic Attracts, Student Teacher, Animal Bodies, and Joyce Collingwood (proceeds go to VANDU this month)

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: back on April 8th
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: White Lung and the New Values
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on April 30th
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?

Saturday
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: back next week
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Purple Rhinestone Eagle

Sunday

now playing: The Hold Steady - Rock 'n' Roll Problems

drunk girls are abhorrently wild

2010-03-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

LCD Soundsystem - Drunk Girls (official audio)

So, there's lots of new shows to talk about, but I'm feeling kind of lazy. Besides, it's Friday, so you should be enjoying the sun before the coming rain hits instead of reading things on the internet. Although, when you're in your house getting ready to go out tonight, crank this one up loud and think about how much you'll be hearing it while on dance floors in the coming months.

cause in the summer weather/we'll put sunscreen on together/i would not want your skin to burn

2010-03-23T14:27:00.000-07:00

A couple of things to note this week...

First, Dream Date at the Astoria moves from Sunday to Tuesday (that's tonight).

Second, Wednesday sees the kick off of the Fake Jazz Festival, which goes all week, and which I probably won't get to check out enough of... but you definitely should, if you can.

This one isn't part of the regular weeklies, but on Thursday, Scion Presents... King Khan, Twin Crystals, and White Lung for free. The reason I'm mentioning it again is because, even though it's free, you need to RSVP to make sure you get in.

And last, but most certainly not least, my friends (and yours) over at Winnie Cooper celebrate the first anniversay of their weekly, No More Strangers, on Saturday at Funky Winkerbean's with Diamond Rings (from TO) and Myths (from right here). I'm digging that Diamond Rings track pretty hard and am super psyched for this. Head over to Winnie Cooper for the .mp3.

Regulars: March 22nd-27th

Monday

Tuesday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Goes all week at various venues for the Fake Jazz Festival!
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in April
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back on March 31st

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Walter TV, Wallis, and Koban
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back on April 2nd
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: White Lung, Nu Sensae, MT-40, Haunted Beard, and Forced Laughter
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?

Saturday
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Diamond Rings and Myths
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Petroleum By-Product

Sunday

now playing: Florrie - Call 911 (Fred Falke Remix)

teardrop

2010-03-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

Tonight at Little Mountain, Aunts & Uncles, Unreliable Narrator, Strike, and James or Cosmos play a fundraiser for "Sheena's dad." I don't know Sheena or her father, but I do know how unbelievably shitty it is to have a loved one who has cancer, so if you're not busy, think about checking this out.

On Sunday at Venue, Expendable Youth celebrate the release of their latest mix CD.

Basketball, Hyaenas, Taal Mala, Gameboy, and Self Evident play the Astoria on April 3rd.

Awesome Color play the Media Club on April 17th.

The Pack AD, Sex with Strangers, and the Angry Dragons play the Biltmore on April 23rd.

Chris-a-riffic, Half Chinese, the Furies, and Payday Millionaire play Art Starts Gallery (808 Richards) on April 30th.

The Tallest Man on Earth and Nurses play St. James Hall on May 12th.

Fucked Up plays the Biltmore on May 13th.

The Very Best, Love & Electrik, and No Gold play the Biltmore on May 28th.

Massive Attack plays Malkin Bowl on May 29th.

Sage Francis plays the Biltmore on May 31st.

Tortoise plays Venue on June 7th.

Tom Petty and Joe Cocker play GM Place on June 8th.

And, Iron-fucking-Maiden plays GM Place on June 24th.

now playing: She & Him - Me and You

masheena

2010-03-15T12:51:00.001-07:00

Regulars: March 15th-21st

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Nihilist Party, Rape Fantasy, Gross Placentas, and Kalki
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: Dead Ghosts, B-Lines, and the Orpheans
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back on March 31st

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Lord Beginner and Adelaide
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Lovers Love Haters and Mode Moderne
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on March 26th
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?
No More Strangers @ Goody: Armadilettantes and Kick Evrything (back to Saturday next week)

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Adjective

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

oxygen flash

2010-03-11T22:52:00.001-08:00

Why don't we start with good news for noise fans:
From March 24th-28th, the Western Front, Casa del Artista, and Lick play host to the Fake Jazz Festival. The line-up features many of the bands that have graced the old Cobalt stage on Wednesdays past and will grace the stage at Lick, Fake Jazz Wednesday's new home, as well as a performance by KK Null. Passes are $25 at Audiopile or the Western Front. For more (like the full line-up) check out the Western Front website or the Facebook event.

Broken Sleep, Empty Love, Glaciers, and Nervous Operator play Blim tomorrow (Friday, in case you're reading this tomorrow) for Quiet City, a benefit for CFRO.

Lost Lovers Brigade, Bedroom's of the Nation, Hermetic, and Kidnap Kids play the Media Club on March 20th.

Captain Ahab, the Squareroot of Evil, Tik Tik, and Baboon Torture Division play Roy G Biv on March 22nd.

Hercules and Love Affair are doing a DJ set at Shine on April Fool's Day.

Congress, Sports, and Taxes play the Astoria on April 9th. It's Taxes first show in Vancouver in forever... and probably their last one for awhile.

The same night, the Ruby Suns, Toro Y Moi, and No Gold play the Biltmore. It'll also be No Gold's first show after a lengthy layoff.

Charlotte Gainsbourg plays the Vogue on April 11th.

Red Hot Icicles Burning On Fire, Bench/Dawn Optimist, So You Think You Can Sleep, and Eeek play Little Mountain on April 16th.

The same night, You Say Party! We Say Die!, Makeout Videotape, and Petroleum By-Product play the Rickshaw.

Japandroids, No Gold, and Babe Rainbow play Lifetime Collective on April 30th.

More show announcements tomorrow!

now playing: Babe Rainbow - Tummy Sticks

dust me off

2010-03-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

A little late... though last week was the last Sailing, so there's nothing on Monday/Tuesday regularly anymore until someone starts something or Shindig comes back.

Also, since the Paralympics start on Friday the Cultural Olympiad shows pick up again this weekend. You can find listings I'm too lazy to list again here (ticketed shows) and here (freebies at LiveCity downtown).

Regulars: March 8th-14th

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Red Clover, Nam Shub, Whip of the UFO, and Plastic Forecast
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on March 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back at the end of the month

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Nu Sensae, Grown-Ups, and Born Lovers
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back next week
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on March 26th
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Old Money
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Koban, Katastroyka, and Telephone Girls
Good Burger @ Gam Gallery: unknown

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

now playing: Wilco - Jesus, Etc.

i am the only one/can ride that horse th'yonder

2010-03-08T10:20:00.000-08:00

Sparklehorse - It's a Wonderful Life

Mark Linkous, RIP

i'll never belong

2010-03-04T13:50:00.000-08:00

My favourite annual local event, Music Waste, is accepting submissions. If your band wants to play, you can send submissions to your stuff to submissions[AT]musicwaste.ca. In the words of the organizers:

Music Waste will run June 2nd - 5th, 2010.

Just send a link to your Myspace page and a few pleasantries. Maybe a contact name and phone number.

We don't need to see any press photos or stupid EPKs. Seriously, we don't give a shit what you look like standing in an alley against a brick wall or how your band met. It was probably at the mall in line buying jeans at Randy River, wasn't it? Just be honest.

If you're not in a band, tell your friends. If you don't have friends, start a band and take a press photo in an alley. People love people who take photos against brick walls. Take our word for it.

Short notice, but Clipse, the Crystal Method, the Good News, and Humans play Rocky Mountaineer (1755 Cottrell) tonight. Tix are only $15 online.

Saturday, B-Lines, Grown Ups, Healthy Students, Ex-Friends, Impossible Babes, and Forced Laugh play the Alf House.

Also Saturday, Hermetic, Crystal Swells, and Aunts & Uncles play Las Brisas (formerly the Purple Crab).

Efterklang, Certain Breeds, Aunts & Uncles play the Biltmore on March 12th.

And Scion's using a bunch of their advertising budget to put on a free(!) show at the Biltmore on March 25th with King Khan & the BBQ Show, White Lung, and Twin Crystals. You need to RSVP (and then line up early) to get in. Details on FaceSpace.

now playing: the Hold Steady - Arms and Hearts

the confederation

2010-03-01T16:00:00.001-08:00

This week marks the return of Fake Jazz Wednesdays. Apparently the Cobalt's too "nice" of a place for a weekly noise night now, but Lick has kindly opened its doors to play host.

Just a reminder that there's no regular "Discorder Presents..." show this month, because they're having their fundraiser this week with a bunch of awesome bands instead. It goes down Friday at the Biltmore.

And totally unrelated, but there's a special episode of Live from Thunderbird Radio Hell on CiTR tonight at 6:30pm, featuring a live performance with Julie Doiron

Regulars: March 1st-7th

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: unknown

Wednesday
Fake Jazz Wednesday @ Lick: Shearing Pinx, Ahna, Stamina Mantis, and Yellow Thief
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on March 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in April
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: back at the end of the month

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Extra Life, Terror Bird, and Gross Xmas
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Twin Crystals and Adjective
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on March 26th
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back sometime this month?

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Nu Sensae
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: back on March 13th
Good Burger @ Gam Gallery: unknown

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

camera talk

2010-02-25T14:39:00.000-08:00

Koban, Glorywhore, and the Hobosexuals play the Purple Crab tomorrow.

Caving and MT-40 play the Lion's Den on Sunday.

Like Animals Again, the Barcelona Chair, and We Just Stole a Car play an all-ager at Little Mountain on March 5th.

Cool Kids play the Commodore on March 10th. (thanks Brad)

Greenebtl Collective, Bad Fate, and Michael LaRoy play a SafeAmp fundraiser at Little Mountain on March 10th.

Diplo and Paul Devro are at Venue on March 14th.

Adam Green plays an early show at Venue on April 1st. Sort of fitting, no?

Surfer Blood and Turbo Fruits play the Biltmore on April 5th.

Horse Feathers and Megafaun play the Media Club on April 16th.

Local Natives are at the Media Club on May 28th.

now playing: Olympic Curling - Switzerland vs. Norway

curmudgeons club

2010-02-22T14:15:00.000-08:00

Regulars: February 22nd-February 28th

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: Blood Blades

Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in March
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in March
Faithful Neighbours @ the Astoria: Shearing Pinx>, Stamina Mantis, Flat Grey, Shipyards, and Ahna

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: off until the Olympics are over
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Hermetic
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: Channels 3+4 and Myths
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back in March

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Hard Feelings
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: WZRDZ
Good Burger @ Gam Gallery: Telephone Girls

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

either way

2010-02-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

So, despite all the SNAFUs leading up to it, I've been pretty caught up in this Olympic thing (it's here and we're paying for it, we might as well enjoy it), which means, more streaming snowboarding and speed skating at work and more venturing downtown (which is pretty awesome right now) on weekdays and less blogging.

Speaking of the big O, Wilco was pretty awesome on Saturday, rain and all. To be perfectly honest, I wasn't super stoked on seeing Wilco with a bunch of people who, for the most part, probably didn't care much about Wilco when they got there, but the audience was great and the band was in their usual top form. Also, kudos to my friend Alison, whose expert alcohol smuggling also helped keep us warm inside the venue.

I tried to catch Cadence Weapon at Alberta House last night, forgetting that Alberta House, despite some sparsely placed heaters, is almost entirely outdoors, so we ended up bailing for warmer pastures before he went on.

There's still a bunch of great, free shows going on (the Cons, Julie Doiron, and Girl Talk, just to name a few), and, like I said, you're already paying for it, so you might as well go out and get your money's worth.

But here are a few non-Olympic things going on before the end of the games...

Tomorrow, Basketball and Sex Negatives play 12 Water St.

Also tomorrow, Moon Duo, the Pacific City Nightlife Vision Band, Stellar OM Source, and Magneticring play the ANZA.

Von Bingen, Haunted Beard, Flash Palace, and nR play the Biltmore on February 25th.

Jeff Andrew, the Creaking Planks, Marie-Josee Houle, and Jason Webley are at Little Mountain on February 28th.

now playing: Canada vs. Germany Women's Curling

4 years

2010-02-15T23:40:00.000-08:00

Regulars: February 15th-February 21st

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: Makeout Videotape and Walter TV

Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: Needles & Pins, Mode Moderne, and Blood Blades
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in March

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: off until the Olympics are over
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Animal Bodies and Petroleum By-Product
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on February 26th
Good Burger @ Goody: ?
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back in March

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Twin Crystals and Babe Rainbow (DJ set)
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Brandiz (back at Funky's for the next one): Listening Party, Slam Dunk, and Eeek! And it's Tristan's birthday!

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

now playing: Travis Porter - Turnt Up

2010-02-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

John Wiese, Lasse Marhaug, the Rita, and Sex Negatives @ Roy G. Biv originally scheduled for tonight is canceled.

I'm not sure why.

shaolin barhop

2010-02-11T15:19:00.000-08:00

Why don't we start with this, because it's one Hell of a show: it's hard being a print rag these days, so Discorder got some of their favourite bands (and some of mine) to lend them their talents for a fundraiser at the Biltmore on March 5th. Apollo Ghosts, Fine Mist, MT-40, Koban, Fanshaw, and Boogie Monster are all performing live, Brian and Dave from Japandroids are doing a DJ set and Radio Zero's Cam Dale's and Tyler Fedchuk are spinning the rest of the evening.

Love & Electrik play "Casual Encounters" at the newly reopened (and, I imagine, somewhat different) Cobalt tomorrow.

Cat Attack, Dirty Beaches, and Burnside (Tight Solid) play the Astoria on February 15th.

The Luyas and Aunts & Uncles play the Western Front on February 20th.

Apollo Ghosts and Role Mach mark the release of their split 7" on February 26th at Zoo Zhop. Gross Xmas and Bad Fate are also playing to help them celebrate.

Headlinghts and Blank Cinema play the Railway on February 28th.

The Smith Westerns play the Media Club on March 7th.

Immaculate Machine, Sun Wizard, and A Pale Blue play the Biltmore on March 19th.

We Are Wolves and Parlovr play the Biltmore on April 15th.

Deer Tick is at the Biltmore on April 21st.

Jonathan Richman plays the Biltmore on May 6th.

And Mono plays the Biltmore on May 12th.

now playing: Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere (Paul Devro Refish)

long way home

2010-02-08T15:36:00.000-08:00

I made it down to First Friday at the El Dorado to catch White Lung, Nu Sensae, and Black Wizard.

It was my first time at the El Dorado since they started putting shows on. The stage is only about a foot off the ground (a la Pat's before they raised their's), but the sound was decent, and the beer special was cheap.

It was my first time checking out Black Wizard, who were already half way through some sweet stoner-metal jams when I showed up. By the end of their set I was sort of kicking myself for waltzing in late.

Daniel and Andrea were their usually wonderful selves: loud, fast, and heavy.

White Lung finished things off with a set of mostly new songs that are making me even more excited to hear their forthcoming debut long player. I was worried when they lost their guitarist, but after seeing them a couple of times with Kenny, it seems that everything sounds just fine.

Oh, and in case you haven't noticed, that "Olympics" thing starts on Friday. I was gong to get something together, but got too lazy to wade through the Cultural Olympiad website (for all that money, you think could design a better website). Don't fret though. The Straight's got a calendar of free shows and Discorder has their picks up (from free up to really expensive) in the latest issue, and I'm sure both of them do a better job than I would have. Let that be a lesson to you: if you procrastinate long enough, someone will do the job for you.

Regulars: February 8th-February 14th

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: unknown

Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on February 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in March

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: off until the Olympics are over
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back on the 19th
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on February 26th
Good Burger @ Goody: Gang Silence (Gang Violence still don't have a new singer, so they're playing instrumentally)
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back in March

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Sun Wizard and Makeout Videotape
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Techromancer and the Zolas

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act

now playing: Beach House - Take Care

trucker's prayer

2010-02-03T15:38:00.000-08:00

If you've caught the Abramson Singers play in the last little while, you may have copped this from Leah directly (and she still has some CDs to sell at shows, I think), but if not, it's out today on iTunes, Zunior, and via White Whale (where it's only $5).

I haven't seen Leah play solo or with a band in ages, and since I mostly stick to live stuff here, I don't really mention her all that often, but I still play her last record, Bedroom/City, at least once a week, and I'm pretty sure the story's going to be the same with this one.

You can check out five songs from the album (plus two from Leah's last one) on her Myspace.

Memewar celebrates the release of their 11th issue at the Railway on February 9th, featuring readings by Tony Power, Allen Gurling, Shannon Rayne & MemePress authors and music by Stefana Fratila and World Club

Man Your Horse, Ford Pier, and Hermetic play the Railway on February 10th.

On February 13th, the Astoria hosts "Fuck, I Love You," a Valentine's party featuring Muscles and B-Lines, and also a screening of Ladies and Gentlemen, the Fabulous Stains.

Foreign Born and Free Energy play Fortune on February 27th.

Think About Life are at the Media Club March 31st.

Dead Meadow and Imaad Wasif are at the Biltmore on April 2nd.

Pierced Arrows and Lullabye Arkestra play an early show at the Biltmore on April 3rd. I haven't managed to catch Pierced Arrows then they've rolled through town yet and I love Lullabye Arkestra, so I'm pretty psyched for this.

Jonsi (of Sigur Ros, who's apparently like Madonna or Prince or something) plays back to back shows at the Vogue on April 6th and 7th.

The Moondoggies and the Shilohs play the Biltmore on April 17th.

Shearwater and Hospital Ships play the Biltmore on April 28th.

Girls and Dum Dum Girls play Venue on May 26th and 27th.

Oh, and while it's not a music show, Andy Dixon is having an opening reception for his art show, "Such Events Have Led Us Here," at Grace Gallery on Friday

now playing: Best Coast - This is Real

brown boots, black hair

2010-02-01T14:30:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Fine Mist for playing Damaged Goods on Friday. And, if you made it out, thanks for packing the Astoria! That was awesome.

Regulars: February 1st-February 7th

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: MT-40

Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on February 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: Sex Negatives, Phonecalls, and MT-40.

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Phonecalls, Katastroyka, and Animal Bodies
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: The Orpheans
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on February 28th
Good Burger @ the Peanut Gallery: Walter TV
First Friday @ the El Dorado: White Lung, Nu Sensae, and Black Wizard

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Terrorbird
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: back on February 13th

Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: ?

now playing: Makaveli - To Live and Die in LA

the return of dr. octagon

2010-01-31T16:54:00.000-08:00

...has been delayed at least slightly.

The Kool Keith show scheduled for the Biltmore tonight has been canceled. Timbre says they're trying to reschedule, but there's not date yet, so ticket holders are advised to seek refunds at your point of purchase.

Also, this is a good time to point out that Fan Death are at the Astoria tonight. I missed that one earlier. Sorry.

now playing: the Beatles - Glass Onion

hide it away

2010-01-28T21:07:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Basketball, Twin Crystals, and Mezamazing play the Astoria.

Pompoir, Ahna, and Stamina Mantis play Roy G. Biv on February 2nd.

Blank Cinema, Owl Drugs, and Lakefield are at the Media Club on February 4th.

Kidnap Kids, Chris-a-riffic, the Nihilist Party, and Thee Ahs play 223 Main St. on February 6th.

John Wiese (of Sissy Spacek), Lasse Marhaug, the Rita, and Sex Negatives are at Roy G. Biv on February 11th.

Listening Party, Slam Dunk, and Eeek! play Brandiz (122 E. Hastings) on February 20th.

Acid Mothers Temple plays an early show at the Biltmore on March 27th.

The same night, Serena Maneesh play the Media Club.

Small Black and Washed Out are at the Media Club on March 30th.

The Retribution Gospel Choir is at the Media Club on April 6th.

King Khan & the Shrines play Venue on April 12th.

Why?, Donkeys, and Josiah Wolf (who'll be doing double duty) play the Biltmore on May 27th.

why do i keep holding on?

2010-01-25T15:24:00.000-08:00

This week for Damaged Goods, I invited one of my favourite bands back to play, because if I don't get a Fine Mist fix about once every three weeks, I just don't feel right.

Afterwards (and yes, you can do both since they go late), my friend Aisha is teaming up with Lief from Myths to start a new Friday at Roy G. Biv, which they've christened Deadbeatz. Scroll down for the inaugural line-up, which looks pretty good, below.

Regulars: January 25th-31st

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: Hospital Blonde

Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back in February
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in February

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Lownote and the Barcelona Chair
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Fine Mist
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: Mattress, Modern Creatures, and Animal Bodies
Good Burger @ 415 Abbott St.: unknown
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back on February 5th

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: The Manvils
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: World Club, Peace, and Charger Clime

now playing: Jay Arner - Creative Art

you explode

2010-01-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

White Lung - Atlanta from Ryan D. Anderson on Vimeo.

New White Lung!

(via Cam)

lovelier girl

2010-01-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Weathered Pines celebrate the release of their debut album, The Sky Between The Buildings with Dylan Thomas and Lovers Love Haters at the Biltmore on January 25th.

The Rio hosts Piano Recital on February 5th, featuring Adaline, Dan from Bend Sinister/Small Fame, Jody Glenham, Prairie Cat, and Dom from the Painted Birds.

Rah Rah, Like Animals Again, and Pineapple play the Railway on February 12th.

Yacht plays the Biltmore on February 19th with Bobby Birdman and Fine Mist.

Woodhands and Topless Gay Love Tekno Party play an early show at the Biltmore on February 20th.

Crystal Castles play Gossip on February 27th.

The same night, Foreign Born and Free Energy play Fortune Sound Club.

Jason Collett, Zeus, and Bahamas play the Biltmore on March 26th.

Beach House plays the Rickshaw on April 11th.

The Wedding Present play an early show at the Biltmore on April 20th. They'll perform Bizarro in full.

And, Brian Jonestown Massacre plays the Commodore on June 18th.

now playing: Otis Redding - Pain in My Heart

the curve of the earth

2010-01-18T23:40:00.000-08:00

Regulars: January 18th-24th

Monday

Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: Student Teacher

Wednesday
The Beehive @ Honey: apparently last week was the last one.
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: Myelin Sheaths, Moby Dicks, and Indian Wars
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in February

Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Solars, Eagleroad, New Super League Of Opiate Mystics, and the Passenger
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act

Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Terrorbird
Good Burger @ 415 Abbott St.: Boogie Monster
First Friday @ the El Dorado: Needles & Pins, Newtown, and Ex-Friends

Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Attack in Black
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month
No More Strangers @ Goody (but I'm pretty sure they're back at Funky's next week): Grosslords, Flash Palace, Stefana Fratila, and Nihilist Party

now playing: Sonic Youth - Touch Me I'm Sick (Mudhoney Cover)

2010-01-15T15:30:00.000-08:00

In case you're looking for something to do tonight.