Wednesday, December 15, 2010
unhappy birthday
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
Thursday, December 02, 2010
stormy high
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
Monday, September 06, 2010
the sun's loneliest day
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.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
either way
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
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
jail stripes
Quickly:
- Above you will find the latest installment of Winnie TV, featuring Andrew WK and the Evaporators (who put out a pretty great little split 7" awhile back)
- White Lung debuted with their new guitar player on Saturday at the Astoria and the guy's (yes, guy) is pretty good at replicating their familiar licks. Can't wait to hear their soon-to-be-recorded full length.
- Also, on Saturday, I finally caught Random Cuts, the solo project by Justin from Mutators/Sex Negatives/etc, live. Definitely worth the way and I definitely can't wait to catch him again. I'm willing to confidently proclaim it the best band mostly made up of mannequins ever.
Regulars: October 19th-25th
Monday
Tuesday
Shindig @ the Railway: Weathered Pines, Manta Ray-Gun, and Witch Water
Sailing @ the Astoria: Walter TV
Wednesday
The Beehive @ Honey: Defektors and the New Values
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in the beginning of November
Gypsy Fade Wednesday @ the Media Club: back on October 28th
Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Quiet Kids, All Purpose Voltage Heroes, the High Arctic, and the Planes
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act
Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Bravo Juliet
Far Away @ the Media Club: Modern Creatures and Needles & Pins
Good Burger @ Funky Winkerbean's: Dead Ghosts
Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Sex With Strangers (CD release)
Night Shift @ the Astoria: Astoria Soul Club is on instead
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Wreck Beach, the Bad Fate, and thee Ahs
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
pennies
Why don't we start this catch up post with pics (and a video that I didn't take) from the Clips last show at Olio a few weeks back. Hopefully, you made it out to bid adieu to one of Vancouver's finest (though, if you didn't, they'll be back with new songs, and a slightly new line up).
And now a fast forward recap of other notable stuff:
- I caught Walter TV, Makeout Videotape, and Recreation last Thursday. I'd seen Make out Videotape before, but the sound was sort of abysmal at the show I caught. This time around was much better. Walter TV and Recreation were great as well. Apparently this was an all-White Rock (or White Rock-ex-pats) show.
- A big, big thanks to Manta Ray-Gun and Cat Attack who were both awesome on Friday at Damaged Goods. I booked both bands after only hearing their recorded stuff, but was totally blown away by how good they sounded live. It was only Cat Attack's second show, so look for big things from them in the future. I loved Manta Ray-Gun so much, I bought one of their tapes (if you see them, you should too).
- I was at Glory Days on Saturday for a friend's going away party. They don't do in-and-outs now. I can't remember any legal, non-Granville Strip bar doing that in this city.
One Cool Word is celebrating the release of their latest issue tomorrow at the Biltmore with World Club, Maria in the Shower, and Spoon River.
Justice Rocks (check the link for the full line-up) takes place on Saturday afternoon for free in Strathcona Park.
Also on Saturday, is the Bicycle Music Festival (once again check the link for the line up), which starts at New Brighton Park at 10am before moving throughout the city. The full route and schedule will go up here in a few days.
The Rain & the Sidewalk celebrate the release of their latest CD on September 5th with Role Mach and Collapsing Opposites.
Katasroyka, Girlfriends & Boyfriends, and the Ludvico Treatment play the Media Club the same night.
Hope Sandoval once again ignores her apparently crippling stage fright to play the Red Room on September 22nd.
Junior Boys are at Venue on October 8th.
Vic Chesnutt plays the Red Room on November 26th. He'll be backed by a band that features Guy from Fugazi and members of A Silver Mt. Zion.
Maximo Park, which was originally scheduled for September 7th at Venue, is canceled.A lot A handfulA couple of people are really bummed about that one.
And, last, but certainly not least, happy birthday to Megan from Fine Mist and Andy Dixon!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
beat up, beat down, wet ground, but too drunk to feel it
During the last two nights of Music Waste there weren't many surprises on my itinerary, so I think I'll just let the photos do the talking, other than saying that while I obviously enjoy Japandroids live, they were even better in front of a crowd that knew their songs.
now playing: Guided by Voices - My Kind of Soldier
Thursday, April 30, 2009
if you strike me down in anger, here i stand
Between then and now, I managed to catch Leonard Cohen (who was brilliant--check out Elaine Corden's review), Boogie Monster (whose wicked set included some noisily re-imagined covers of Kanye and Japandroids), and Piper Davis (who was in her usual fine form at Glory Days).
Between then and now, that thing up there also came out (although, they didn't have it at RedCat yet when I went the other day, so I don't have the real thing). Some people whose opinions hold a lot more weight than mine really like it.
The guys were out on tour when Brian had to be rushed to the hospital, which you may have read about. Hope you'll join me in wishing him a quick recovery.
Lions in the Street are at the Media Club on Friday with Chris Read & the Pool Hall Gospel.
Hermetic play Little Mountain on May 2nd with Collapsing Opposites, Search Parties, and the SSRIs.
The same night, Jaws and No Gold play the Astoria.
Bravo Juliet play the Railway on May 6th with the Blue Violets and the Good News.
Bend Sinister play the Biltmore on May 7th with Language Arts and We Are the City.
The same night, Man Your Horse, Aunts & Uncles, and the Armadilettantes are at the Backstage Lounge.
Julie Doiron is at the Biltmore on June 14th.
Slayer and Megadeth are at GM Place on June 24th. Epic.
Three Mile Pilot are reunited and at Richard's on July 21st.
Kings of Leon are at GM Place on August 15th.
And, it's out of town, but the Cap Hill Block Party features the Jesus Lizard and Sonic-fucking-Youth as headliners this year. Two days for $40 USD. See you there?
Oh, and go, Canucks, go!
now playing: Sonic Youth - Antenna
Saturday, April 11, 2009
never get old
Tomorrow, Aunts and Uncles (featuring members of the SSRIs, Friends from School, the Rub, and the Barcelona Chair) play their debut show at the Media Club. They'll open for Koro Kidinga and Man Your Horse, with Ford Pier rounding out the bill.
The guys behind Ice Cream Social are throwing a party at the Rio on April 18th. They'll be spinning, of course, but there'll also be a screening of Hard Day's Night and "the Ice Cream Socialites" (Ice Cream Social DJs Trevor Risk and Justin Gradin along with Louise Burns) will play a set of cover tunes live.
Also, the show originally scheduled for the Kits Showboat is now at the original ER, due to the (apparently) coming rains.It's back at the showboat. 9pm start.
And a reminder that April 15th is the deadline to submit to Music Waste: submissions@musicwaste.ca
now playing: the Canucks vs. Avs
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
slow hand of death
Thanks to everyone who came down to the Biltmore on Sunday. The band situation got a bit mixed up at the last minute, so apologies if you came down to see Edo play (his keyboard was stuck in Little Mountain Studios) or read the posters that said Gang Violence would be on the bill (posters went up and something came up for them). Thanks to the bands who played and everyone who brought stuff down to sell. And a big thanks to the Kitchen Coup for cooking up some amazing snacks. Also, a special thank you to Jody Glenham, who filled in for Edo and his MIA equipment at the last minute... and also Edo, who let me help out and did most of the real work.
And now for some catching up...
If you missed night one of the Mint Records Christmas party a few weeks ago, you can still catch Andrew WK's surprise performance here, here, and here.
My friend Gord did a great interview with Women for Narwhal Magazine. You can check that out here.
I wrote about Transmission over at Chart. Though if you want the short version, the locals really stole the show. Bison, Ladyhawk, and Twin Crystals were all amongst the best performances over three days. Woodhands were great as well.
I was also pleasantly surprised by Wildbirds & Peacedrums. Pfork already gushed about them earlier this year. But if you didn't take their recommendation, you should really check them out (though the records don't do their live show justice).
Love & Mathematics is at the Biltmore on December 17th.
Collapsing Opposites, Aaron Read, Stefana Fratila, Ben & Gorodetsky, and the brilliantly named Ghost Face Killers are at Hoko's on the 18th.
Snailhouse are at the Peanut Gallery on December 20th with the Old Familiar and Brasstronaut.
Terrorbird plays Glory Days at the Biltmore on the 27th, replacing the Clips (who were originally announced on that date).
Speaking of Glory Days, despite the snow, it was pretty good on Saturday. Gang Violence were in their usual fine form.
Speaking of the Biltmore, they're hosting "Ice Cream Social vs. the ER" on NYE. Defektors, Gang Violence, and Juvie all perform and the Ice Cream Social DJs share the turntables with Justin (ex-Mutators, Sex Negatives, the closest thing the ER has to management). Tix are $15 in advance at Zulu, Scratch, Red Cat, and Beatstreet.
The Supersuckers are at the Biltmore on January 2nd with Carpenter.
Wovenhandis at the Biltmore on January 17th with Silver Summit and Sinoia Caves.
The Clipse are at Richard's on January 21st.
Beach House is at Richard's on January 25th.
The Murder City Devils have their original line-up back together and they're at the Commodore on February 13th with Past Lives.
Kool Keith is at Richard's on February 17th.
AC Newman is at the Biltmore on February 20th with Dent May & His Magnificent Ukelele.
Antony & the Johnsons do an all-ager at the Vogue on February 27th.
Hawksley Workman is at the Commodore the same night with Chad VanGaalen.
Turbonegro is at the Commodore on April 14th.
Cold War Kids are at the Commodore on April 21st.
And the Weakerthans are at the Ballroom with the Cons on May 1st and 2nd.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
relevant issues
AIDS Wolf at the Emergency Room was one of my favourite shows last year, so I was pretty psyched for their show at the Biltmore last night. Also, while I was into Lovvers, I think Cities of Glass is a big step up, so anticipation was high. Thankfully, the band, who have a new guitarist, didn't disappoint. They were loud, noisy, and totally uncompromising. If that sounds like your thing and you missed it, you missed out.
There's a reason that Shearing Pinx are Vancouver's most well known (in a relatively unknown scene) noise act. If you've seen them, you know what I'm talking about.
All of the Sex Negatives sets that I've seen have been purely improvisational, which means the quality varies. According to Justin (drums), they were going to write some songs this time around, but "couldn't get (their) shit together." I'd be interested to see what some composed pieces sound like, but they were still pretty good. Not the best set I've seen by them (Music Waste 07 takes that crown), but still enjoyable.
Oh, and I should mention, even though it's almost a week later (I was writing some articles), that Deerhunter was wonderful at Richard's last week.
Bend Sinister plays an all-ager at the Sweatshop on November 28th with Elizabeth and Bad Moves.
Transmission Festival goes down from December 3rd-5th. The Ladyhawk/Twin Crystals/Said the Whale show at the Biltmore kicks it off and you can see the line-ups for days two and three at their website.
Bad Moves also plays with Animal Names on December 4th at Honey.
On December 9th, the Cobalt hosts Duofest, which, as you would expect, features a bunch of two-piece acts. Tight Solid (Burnside from Treacherous Machete's new band), Boogie Monster, Stamina Mantis, Perlisk, Yagin, Baboob Torture Division, Botox Sharpei, and Chaos, Disorder, & Panic all perform.
Annuals are at the Pit on February 24th.
Land of Talk are at the Biltmore on February 7th, which is great, because I always like it when I can see one of my favourite bands within walking distance to home.
Speaking of that, I'm really excited about My!Gay!Husband!'s latest venture. Glory Days goes down at the Biltmore every Saturday and features, in addition to a rotating cast of great DJs, one local band a night (sometimes more). Here's the first few bands:
December 13th, for the grand opening, Gang Violence plays.
December 20th features Bend Sinister.
And the 27th is the Clips' last show for about a half a year.
There are more rad bands booked, but I'll leave it at that for now.
Lastly, the show booked for this Friday at the Astoria is off, since the venue is still closed. If you can offer up a replacement venue, let me know, and I'll get you in touch with the organizer.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
desolation row
Here is a very quick weekend recap and a whole bunch of show announcements, minus links, because I'm sort of busy and lazy:
The Sweatshop on Friday was pretty good. No Gold were their usual charming selves. Ballz' set turned into a percussion free for all, which hurt them musically, but it made the performance - their last in Vancouver for a long, long time - a memorable one, to be sure. The last act I caught was Sorcerers. Their lead singer seemed pretty wasted, but the band sounded extra tight. It was sort of a nice contrast, actually.
Before the Sweatshop, I was at the Garage to see Dylan. I was expecting him to sound rough and live up to his reputation as "difficult," but even with that in mind, it was pretty terrible, perhaps depressingly terrible. I've always been fond of his ability and willingness to re-arrange his own songs, but, when in the past, he'd lead his band through a song in an entirely new way that was fresh, creative, and never different for the sake of being different, last weekend, he was content to mumble most of the lyrics to changed up numbers over a rotating series of generic 12-bar blues shuffles. Oh, and lest you think that reports of his voice being shot were exaggerated (which is what I thought, to be honest), you are wrong. He can play the hell out of a harmonica though, if that's any consolation... not that Bob Dylan needs any consolation, but you get my point, which is that I should have used by budget for an expensive show by an old guy on Neil Young (who was amazing last time I saw him a few years ago and apparently better last week).
On Saturday, I made it out to Bend Sinister's album release show. It was a pretty great performance by the band and it was coupled by a stage show that was straight out of 1975, complete with a string section, horns, video projections, and, yes, lasers.
Some stuff at the Biltmore:
-November 19th Justin Rutledge and Jenn Grant w/ Jody Glenham
-November 21st Jay Crocker, The Pack A.D., Swank, Beladeans, Valerie Graham, Spitfires, Hawaiian Bibles (Benefit show for Mike Gurr of Hotel Lobbyists)
-November 25th Holly Golightly
Some stuff not at the Biltmore:
Aja Rose and Gabriel Solomon are at Charles H. Scott Gallery (1399 Johnston St.) tomorrow night.
Sex With Strangers, the SSRIs, and Collapsing Opposites are at the ANZA for the latest One Cool Word release party on Thursday.
Also Thursday, Adjective, Terrorbird, and Zombie Pistolero & His Guns are at Honey.
There's an extra edition of Fake Jazz on November 11th.
Stamina Mantis, Ahna & Richard Catwrangleur, n213, and Holzkopf are at Blim on November 21st for a night that features music made by homemade, circuit bent, or otherwise altered electronics.
The same night Boys Noize and Paul Devro are at Celebs.
Franz Ferdinand is at the Commodore on December 9th.
Fake Blood is at the Republic on December 18th, to celebrate my birthday, I'm pretty sure.
Metric, Tokyo Police Club, Dears, Sebastian Grainger et les Montagnes, and Mike Relm are at the Vogue on December 21st for "Jingle Bell Rocks," a show in support of Covenant House.
Solars are also on the bill for the November 6th Wood Family Creeps show. It also starts at 8pm, not 8:30pm now.
Sex Negatives are now on the bill for the AIDS Wolf show on November 24th.
Nu Sensae, Gang Violence, and Role Mach are at the Astoria on November 28th, provided it's open by then.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
trapped in an elevator
Shindig sort of kicked off with more of a whimper than a bang on Tuesday. None of the bands were out and out terrible (someone might argue with me on that one), but nothing really blew me away either. I should note that a late (they were running behind) set in a bar setting wasn't the best place to get introduced to eventual winner (and Petroleum By-Products member) Zombie Pistolero, so I'll definitely reserve final judgment on his solo stuff. I have a feeling that I would've enjoyed the show at Cafe Montmartre more.
For the record, that photo is of some old dudes who sounded like they listened to a lot of Wire, not Zombie Pistolero. I think I liked them more than most people there.
Dead Ghosts and Manic Attracts are at Psych Night at the ANZA on the 25th of this month.
K-Os plays the Pit Pub at UBC with the Good News on the same night.
Taxes are at the Astoria (which will be open again) on the 27th for Better than Nothing. We Are Wolves will be their for a DJ set after their show, while locals Sex Attack! and Tyler Fedchuk hold things down for the rest of the evening. It's also Dustin's birthday. I would say to buy him a drink, but he gets a bar tab for running the night... and he's a jerk. Taxes are on at "11:30pm sharp."
Stamina Mantis kick of their tour on October 1st at Fake Jazz Wednesday at the Cobalt. gr8-2000, Blackmage, and Bird Costumes round out the bill.
Quintron & Miss Pussycat are at the Biltmore on October 18th. (thanks Carmen)
Land of Talk are at the Media Club on November 12th with Josh Reichmann. (thanks Jeff)
now playing: Wire - Heartbeat
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
winner's blues
Not a bad way to end the summer.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
light the match
Went to Mirah on Saturday. It was good.
Kinda busy. If you're not, Fake Jazz is hosting a night of duos on Wednesday with: Perilisk, Baboon Torture Division, Botox Sharpei, Yagin, Boogie Monster Band, Telephone Girls, and Chaos Disorder and Panic.
More show announcements and such in a few days.
now playing: Sonic Youth - New Hampshire
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
secret life
Mutators LP release show... it was good. The LP is too.
Cadence Weapon is at Richard's on September 25th with Woodhands.
Horrorpops are at Richard's on October 5th.
Born Ruffians and Plants and Animals are at Richard's on October 10th.
Ladyhawk is at Richard's on October 24th with Attack in Black.
Gwar are at the Commodore with Kingdom of Sorrow and Toxic Holocaust on November 10th.
Deerhunter are at Richard's on November 20th with Times New Viking and Barr. I've never heard Times New Viking, but Barr opening means that you can at least saunter in a little late... actually, you probably should.
Metallica is at GM Place on December 2nd with Lamb of God andSwords the Sword (via Brooklyn Vegan) (thanks for the correction, Adam)
Expendable Youth are now opening for the Juan MacLean on September 9th.
Nut Brown is now opening the International Falls show on the 17th of August.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
my aim is true
I neglected to mention the Whistler Music Festival for several reasons. For one, I didn't hear about it until almost right before. Two, after that I forgot. And finally, most of the line up sort of sucked anyhow. Although, if I had known that you could get a decent view from outside of the "venue" while relaxing in the grass up one of Blackcomb's slopes, rather than sitting on the scorched earth of the festival grounds for free, I would've said something. Sorry, internet.
Anyhow, I got in for free (thanks Shea), so I went to check out Broken Social Scene and Elvis Costello.
BSS were womenless like in Calgary, which is always a bit of a downer (I know Feist/Emily Haines/Amy Millan are busy, but is it that hard to find a lady to tour with them?). Also, while they're always pretty loose, they sounded almost sloppy on Sunday. "It's All Gonna Break" is still one of my favourite lives songs by anybody though.
Elvis split his time between old songs and new songs. His new stuff is alright, but, like most people, I'd imagine, I was there for the classics, and he certainly delivered on those. Highlights include a version of "Watching the Detectives" with the overdrive cranked (relatively speaking) and "(I Don't Want to Go To) Chesea," but my favourite part of the set was when "Alison" segued into Smokey Robinson's "Tracks of My Tears" and then "Tears of a Clown."
Plus, my fears of a Diana and Elvis duet thankfully didn't come to fruition.
The Victory Square Block Party (aka one of my favourite Vancouver events of the year) line-up is out. As always, some of Vancouver's finest bands will play, but the 2008 edition also features comedy (and not just when the sprinklers turn on accidentally) and DJs between sets. As always, it goes down on Labour Day.
On Friday, Ghosthouse is at the Railway with Vonnegut Dollhouse and Jeremy Stewart & the Rest.
On Saturday, Shearwater is doing an in-store at Zulu from 5-6pm.
On August 8th James Murphy and Pat Mahoney bring their Special Disco DJ night to Celebs. Paul Devro supports.
Chromatics help Tyler Fedchuk and Expendable Youth celebrate the 50th epidisode of Radio Zero on August 9th at the Sweatshop.
On August 15th, Better than Loneliness celebrates it's 1 year anniversary by coming back from the grave for a party at the Sweatshop with special guest Paul Devro.
Animal Names are having a CD release show on August 20th at the Media Club with Secret Mommy, No Gold, and Hermetic.
Steve Aoki is at the Celebs with Paul Devro on September 5th for the Blueprint 11th anniversary.
Digitalism does a DJ set on 9/11 with Expendable Youth at Caprice.
Goldfrapp is at the Commodore on September 16th.
The Wedding Present is at the Media Club on September 26th. (thanks G)
Liam Finn is at the Biltmore on September 27th.
And waaaaaaaaay in advance, M83 is at Richard's on November 26th.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
and the way i feel tonight/i could die and i wouldn't mind
When I was about 14, my cousin sent me a pair of mixtapes that were filled with great music. Some of it I loved and still love, other songs are now forgotten, but the one band that hit me the hardest was the Jesus and Mary Chain. So, I was pretty psyched when I found out (thanks Matt!) that they were playing the Showbox Sodo in Seattle as part of their reunion tour.
Despite the dodgy sound in the venue (the new edition to the Showbox brand is a big echo filled, hangar-like room), they sounded amazing - just liked I'd imagined for the last dozen or so years. Jim Reid's singing voice is still spot on and his elder brother's guitar still wails like it did on all their records.
The setlist was mostly filled with JAMC classics, but they also played two new(ish) songs, "All Things Must Pass" and "Dead End Kids" (that Jim actually recorded for a solo project a few years back), and they didn't sound out of place at all.
I was hoping for "You Trip Me Up" or "Upside Down" in the encore, but it's sort of fitting that they'd end with "Reverence" ("I wanna die just like JFK/I wanna die in the USA") on the first date of their American tour.
Oh, and Jim sang all the songs, even the ones that William sings on record.
I only brought my point-and-shoot to the show, so try to squint a bit and that fuzzy picture will be more realistic (or just go here).
Speaking of reunions Wire are at the Commodore on October 16th. Tix are on sale this Saturday. (thanks Brian)
Bells Clanging are at the Bourbon with the Barcelona Chair on July 23rd.
Also on the 23rd, there's "a night of music and anecdotes dedicated to the career of infamous produced Phil Spector" at Little Mountain Studios cleverly titled, Full Spectrum
Nat Baldwin (whose latest record is pretty great) is at the Peanut Gallery on July 26th with Extra Life, Certain Breeds, and Yukon (who are from Baltimore. No Gold didn't switch back to their old name).
Shout Out Out Out Out is at Richard's on August 10th.
The Juan MacLean is at Richard's on September 9th.
Alejandro Escovedo is at the Biltmore on September 16th.
Elliott Brood is at Richard's on September 20th.
Ra Ra Riot are at the Media Club with Walter Meego the next night.
Jamie Lidell is at the Plaza on October 4th.
Sensitive indie boys (and girls) have a conundrum on their hands: Iron and Wine is at the Commodore on October 7th. It's a Sam Beam solo show and it's the same day as Sigur Ros.
And... 2 Many DJs is canceled. (thanks Matt)
now playing: Elvis Costello - Indoor Fireworks
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
language city
On Thursday, Birth, Stamina Mantis, Blouse, Nihilist Party, and V. Vecker are at Pub 340.
Also on Thursday, Bison is at the Plaza with Grass City, and Impeders of Progress.
This Friday, Paul Devro spins in the back room at Shine.
Also this Friday, Terrorbird are celebrating their 7" release at the ER with Pink Noise, Zombie Pistolero & His Guns, and Adult Books.
This Saturday, the B-Lines, White Lung, and Chris-a-riffic are at 70 E. 2nd (at Ontario).
Also this Saturday, All Purpose Voltage Heroes are at the Astoria for Better Than Nothing.
On July 25th, Cosmetics (featuring members of Ice Cream and Petroleum By-Products) and Reflektions do 1/2 Alive at 340.
On August 2nd, Grouper, Ilyas Ahmed, and the Aja Rose Band are at Hoko's. All-ages, as usual.
August 4th sees Terrorbird and Cosmetics supporting Jeremy Jay at 340
And Low Budget is at Blastramp at the Bourbon on August 7th.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
december '93
After Wire and Eric's Trip, I'm 2-for-2 on reunion shows (hopefully 3-for-3 after JAMC on Wednesday). I'm about to head out to Wolf Parade, so I'll leave it at that.
Oh, except one more thing:
To the girl who complained after the band finished that she "didn't like that part when they let their guitars feedback for so long."
You do know that they're named after a Sonic Youth song, right?
unhappy birthday
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
Labels: free shows, lazy show recaps, show announcements
Thursday, December 02, 2010
stormy high
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
Labels: black angels, black mountain, lazy show recaps
Monday, September 06, 2010
the sun's loneliest day
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.
Labels: lazy show recaps, victory square block party
Thursday, February 18, 2010
either way
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
Labels: lazy show recaps, olympics, show announcements
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
jail stripes
Quickly:
- Above you will find the latest installment of Winnie TV, featuring Andrew WK and the Evaporators (who put out a pretty great little split 7" awhile back)
- White Lung debuted with their new guitar player on Saturday at the Astoria and the guy's (yes, guy) is pretty good at replicating their familiar licks. Can't wait to hear their soon-to-be-recorded full length.
- Also, on Saturday, I finally caught Random Cuts, the solo project by Justin from Mutators/Sex Negatives/etc, live. Definitely worth the way and I definitely can't wait to catch him again. I'm willing to confidently proclaim it the best band mostly made up of mannequins ever.
Regulars: October 19th-25th
Monday
Tuesday
Shindig @ the Railway: Weathered Pines, Manta Ray-Gun, and Witch Water
Sailing @ the Astoria: Walter TV
Wednesday
The Beehive @ Honey: Defektors and the New Values
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in the beginning of November
Gypsy Fade Wednesday @ the Media Club: back on October 28th
Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: Quiet Kids, All Purpose Voltage Heroes, the High Arctic, and the Planes
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act
Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: Bravo Juliet
Far Away @ the Media Club: Modern Creatures and Needles & Pins
Good Burger @ Funky Winkerbean's: Dead Ghosts
Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Sex With Strangers (CD release)
Night Shift @ the Astoria: Astoria Soul Club is on instead
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Wreck Beach, the Bad Fate, and thee Ahs
Labels: lazy show recaps, random cuts, show announcements, white lung
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
pennies
Why don't we start this catch up post with pics (and a video that I didn't take) from the Clips last show at Olio a few weeks back. Hopefully, you made it out to bid adieu to one of Vancouver's finest (though, if you didn't, they'll be back with new songs, and a slightly new line up).
And now a fast forward recap of other notable stuff:
- I caught Walter TV, Makeout Videotape, and Recreation last Thursday. I'd seen Make out Videotape before, but the sound was sort of abysmal at the show I caught. This time around was much better. Walter TV and Recreation were great as well. Apparently this was an all-White Rock (or White Rock-ex-pats) show.
- A big, big thanks to Manta Ray-Gun and Cat Attack who were both awesome on Friday at Damaged Goods. I booked both bands after only hearing their recorded stuff, but was totally blown away by how good they sounded live. It was only Cat Attack's second show, so look for big things from them in the future. I loved Manta Ray-Gun so much, I bought one of their tapes (if you see them, you should too).
- I was at Glory Days on Saturday for a friend's going away party. They don't do in-and-outs now. I can't remember any legal, non-Granville Strip bar doing that in this city.
One Cool Word is celebrating the release of their latest issue tomorrow at the Biltmore with World Club, Maria in the Shower, and Spoon River.
Justice Rocks (check the link for the full line-up) takes place on Saturday afternoon for free in Strathcona Park.
Also on Saturday, is the Bicycle Music Festival (once again check the link for the line up), which starts at New Brighton Park at 10am before moving throughout the city. The full route and schedule will go up here in a few days.
The Rain & the Sidewalk celebrate the release of their latest CD on September 5th with Role Mach and Collapsing Opposites.
Katasroyka, Girlfriends & Boyfriends, and the Ludvico Treatment play the Media Club the same night.
Hope Sandoval once again ignores her apparently crippling stage fright to play the Red Room on September 22nd.
Junior Boys are at Venue on October 8th.
Vic Chesnutt plays the Red Room on November 26th. He'll be backed by a band that features Guy from Fugazi and members of A Silver Mt. Zion.
Maximo Park, which was originally scheduled for September 7th at Venue, is canceled.
And, last, but certainly not least, happy birthday to Megan from Fine Mist and Andy Dixon!
Labels: birthdays, cat attack, damaged goods, lazy show recaps, makeout videotape, manta ray-gun, recreation, show announcements, the clips, walter tv
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
beat up, beat down, wet ground, but too drunk to feel it
During the last two nights of Music Waste there weren't many surprises on my itinerary, so I think I'll just let the photos do the talking, other than saying that while I obviously enjoy Japandroids live, they were even better in front of a crowd that knew their songs.
now playing: Guided by Voices - My Kind of Soldier
Labels: japandroids, lazy show recaps, music waste
Thursday, April 30, 2009
if you strike me down in anger, here i stand
It seems like ages since I've posted about any shows I've seen. Well, it has been ages, actually.
Between then and now, I managed to catch Leonard Cohen (who was brilliant--check out Elaine Corden's review), Boogie Monster (whose wicked set included some noisily re-imagined covers of Kanye and Japandroids), and Piper Davis (who was in her usual fine form at Glory Days).
Between then and now, that thing up there also came out (although, they didn't have it at RedCat yet when I went the other day, so I don't have the real thing). Some people whose opinions hold a lot more weight than mine really like it.
The guys were out on tour when Brian had to be rushed to the hospital, which you may have read about. Hope you'll join me in wishing him a quick recovery.
Lions in the Street are at the Media Club on Friday with Chris Read & the Pool Hall Gospel.
Hermetic play Little Mountain on May 2nd with Collapsing Opposites, Search Parties, and the SSRIs.
The same night, Jaws and No Gold play the Astoria.
Bravo Juliet play the Railway on May 6th with the Blue Violets and the Good News.
Bend Sinister play the Biltmore on May 7th with Language Arts and We Are the City.
The same night, Man Your Horse, Aunts & Uncles, and the Armadilettantes are at the Backstage Lounge.
Julie Doiron is at the Biltmore on June 14th.
Slayer and Megadeth are at GM Place on June 24th. Epic.
Three Mile Pilot are reunited and at Richard's on July 21st.
Kings of Leon are at GM Place on August 15th.
And, it's out of town, but the Cap Hill Block Party features the Jesus Lizard and Sonic-fucking-Youth as headliners this year. Two days for $40 USD. See you there?
Oh, and go, Canucks, go!
now playing: Sonic Youth - Antenna
Labels: boogie monster, lazy show recaps, leonard cohen, piper davis, show announcements
Saturday, April 11, 2009
never get old
I made it down to the Astoria late last night to catch most of Colourbook. It seemed like every time they made it over from the island for a show, I already had tickets to something else, so I was pretty psyched to finally check them out. They'd been recommended by multiple friends and last night explained that. The game's back on, so I'll leave it at that.
Tomorrow, Aunts and Uncles (featuring members of the SSRIs, Friends from School, the Rub, and the Barcelona Chair) play their debut show at the Media Club. They'll open for Koro Kidinga and Man Your Horse, with Ford Pier rounding out the bill.
The guys behind Ice Cream Social are throwing a party at the Rio on April 18th. They'll be spinning, of course, but there'll also be a screening of Hard Day's Night and "the Ice Cream Socialites" (Ice Cream Social DJs Trevor Risk and Justin Gradin along with Louise Burns) will play a set of cover tunes live.
And a reminder that April 15th is the deadline to submit to Music Waste: submissions@musicwaste.ca
now playing: the Canucks vs. Avs
Labels: colourbook, lazy show recaps, show announcements
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
slow hand of death
Thanks to everyone who came down to the Biltmore on Sunday. The band situation got a bit mixed up at the last minute, so apologies if you came down to see Edo play (his keyboard was stuck in Little Mountain Studios) or read the posters that said Gang Violence would be on the bill (posters went up and something came up for them). Thanks to the bands who played and everyone who brought stuff down to sell. And a big thanks to the Kitchen Coup for cooking up some amazing snacks. Also, a special thank you to Jody Glenham, who filled in for Edo and his MIA equipment at the last minute... and also Edo, who let me help out and did most of the real work.
And now for some catching up...
If you missed night one of the Mint Records Christmas party a few weeks ago, you can still catch Andrew WK's surprise performance here, here, and here.
My friend Gord did a great interview with Women for Narwhal Magazine. You can check that out here.
I wrote about Transmission over at Chart. Though if you want the short version, the locals really stole the show. Bison, Ladyhawk, and Twin Crystals were all amongst the best performances over three days. Woodhands were great as well.
I was also pleasantly surprised by Wildbirds & Peacedrums. Pfork already gushed about them earlier this year. But if you didn't take their recommendation, you should really check them out (though the records don't do their live show justice).
Love & Mathematics is at the Biltmore on December 17th.
Collapsing Opposites, Aaron Read, Stefana Fratila, Ben & Gorodetsky, and the brilliantly named Ghost Face Killers are at Hoko's on the 18th.
Snailhouse are at the Peanut Gallery on December 20th with the Old Familiar and Brasstronaut.
Terrorbird plays Glory Days at the Biltmore on the 27th, replacing the Clips (who were originally announced on that date).
Speaking of Glory Days, despite the snow, it was pretty good on Saturday. Gang Violence were in their usual fine form.
Speaking of the Biltmore, they're hosting "Ice Cream Social vs. the ER" on NYE. Defektors, Gang Violence, and Juvie all perform and the Ice Cream Social DJs share the turntables with Justin (ex-Mutators, Sex Negatives, the closest thing the ER has to management). Tix are $15 in advance at Zulu, Scratch, Red Cat, and Beatstreet.
The Supersuckers are at the Biltmore on January 2nd with Carpenter.
Wovenhandis at the Biltmore on January 17th with Silver Summit and Sinoia Caves.
The Clipse are at Richard's on January 21st.
Beach House is at Richard's on January 25th.
The Murder City Devils have their original line-up back together and they're at the Commodore on February 13th with Past Lives.
Kool Keith is at Richard's on February 17th.
AC Newman is at the Biltmore on February 20th with Dent May & His Magnificent Ukelele.
Antony & the Johnsons do an all-ager at the Vogue on February 27th.
Hawksley Workman is at the Commodore the same night with Chad VanGaalen.
Turbonegro is at the Commodore on April 14th.
Cold War Kids are at the Commodore on April 21st.
And the Weakerthans are at the Ballroom with the Cons on May 1st and 2nd.
Labels: a fine mist, bison, jody glenham, ladyhawk, lazy show recaps, megacity, show announcements, twin crystals, wildbirds and peacedrums, woodhands, zombie pistolero
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
relevant issues
AIDS Wolf at the Emergency Room was one of my favourite shows last year, so I was pretty psyched for their show at the Biltmore last night. Also, while I was into Lovvers, I think Cities of Glass is a big step up, so anticipation was high. Thankfully, the band, who have a new guitarist, didn't disappoint. They were loud, noisy, and totally uncompromising. If that sounds like your thing and you missed it, you missed out.
There's a reason that Shearing Pinx are Vancouver's most well known (in a relatively unknown scene) noise act. If you've seen them, you know what I'm talking about.
All of the Sex Negatives sets that I've seen have been purely improvisational, which means the quality varies. According to Justin (drums), they were going to write some songs this time around, but "couldn't get (their) shit together." I'd be interested to see what some composed pieces sound like, but they were still pretty good. Not the best set I've seen by them (Music Waste 07 takes that crown), but still enjoyable.
Oh, and I should mention, even though it's almost a week later (I was writing some articles), that Deerhunter was wonderful at Richard's last week.
Bend Sinister plays an all-ager at the Sweatshop on November 28th with Elizabeth and Bad Moves.
Transmission Festival goes down from December 3rd-5th. The Ladyhawk/Twin Crystals/Said the Whale show at the Biltmore kicks it off and you can see the line-ups for days two and three at their website.
Bad Moves also plays with Animal Names on December 4th at Honey.
On December 9th, the Cobalt hosts Duofest, which, as you would expect, features a bunch of two-piece acts. Tight Solid (Burnside from Treacherous Machete's new band), Boogie Monster, Stamina Mantis, Perlisk, Yagin, Baboob Torture Division, Botox Sharpei, and Chaos, Disorder, & Panic all perform.
Annuals are at the Pit on February 24th.
Land of Talk are at the Biltmore on February 7th, which is great, because I always like it when I can see one of my favourite bands within walking distance to home.
Speaking of that, I'm really excited about My!Gay!Husband!'s latest venture. Glory Days goes down at the Biltmore every Saturday and features, in addition to a rotating cast of great DJs, one local band a night (sometimes more). Here's the first few bands:
December 13th, for the grand opening, Gang Violence plays.
December 20th features Bend Sinister.
And the 27th is the Clips' last show for about a half a year.
There are more rad bands booked, but I'll leave it at that for now.
Lastly, the show booked for this Friday at the Astoria is off, since the venue is still closed. If you can offer up a replacement venue, let me know, and I'll get you in touch with the organizer.
Labels: aids wolf, deerhunter, lazy show recaps, sex negatives, shearing pinx, show announcements, show recaps
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
desolation row
Here is a very quick weekend recap and a whole bunch of show announcements, minus links, because I'm sort of busy and lazy:
The Sweatshop on Friday was pretty good. No Gold were their usual charming selves. Ballz' set turned into a percussion free for all, which hurt them musically, but it made the performance - their last in Vancouver for a long, long time - a memorable one, to be sure. The last act I caught was Sorcerers. Their lead singer seemed pretty wasted, but the band sounded extra tight. It was sort of a nice contrast, actually.
Before the Sweatshop, I was at the Garage to see Dylan. I was expecting him to sound rough and live up to his reputation as "difficult," but even with that in mind, it was pretty terrible, perhaps depressingly terrible. I've always been fond of his ability and willingness to re-arrange his own songs, but, when in the past, he'd lead his band through a song in an entirely new way that was fresh, creative, and never different for the sake of being different, last weekend, he was content to mumble most of the lyrics to changed up numbers over a rotating series of generic 12-bar blues shuffles. Oh, and lest you think that reports of his voice being shot were exaggerated (which is what I thought, to be honest), you are wrong. He can play the hell out of a harmonica though, if that's any consolation... not that Bob Dylan needs any consolation, but you get my point, which is that I should have used by budget for an expensive show by an old guy on Neil Young (who was amazing last time I saw him a few years ago and apparently better last week).
On Saturday, I made it out to Bend Sinister's album release show. It was a pretty great performance by the band and it was coupled by a stage show that was straight out of 1975, complete with a string section, horns, video projections, and, yes, lasers.
Some stuff at the Biltmore:
-November 19th Justin Rutledge and Jenn Grant w/ Jody Glenham
-November 21st Jay Crocker, The Pack A.D., Swank, Beladeans, Valerie Graham, Spitfires, Hawaiian Bibles (Benefit show for Mike Gurr of Hotel Lobbyists)
-November 25th Holly Golightly
Some stuff not at the Biltmore:
Aja Rose and Gabriel Solomon are at Charles H. Scott Gallery (1399 Johnston St.) tomorrow night.
Sex With Strangers, the SSRIs, and Collapsing Opposites are at the ANZA for the latest One Cool Word release party on Thursday.
Also Thursday, Adjective, Terrorbird, and Zombie Pistolero & His Guns are at Honey.
There's an extra edition of Fake Jazz on November 11th.
Stamina Mantis, Ahna & Richard Catwrangleur, n213, and Holzkopf are at Blim on November 21st for a night that features music made by homemade, circuit bent, or otherwise altered electronics.
The same night Boys Noize and Paul Devro are at Celebs.
Franz Ferdinand is at the Commodore on December 9th.
Fake Blood is at the Republic on December 18th, to celebrate my birthday, I'm pretty sure.
Metric, Tokyo Police Club, Dears, Sebastian Grainger et les Montagnes, and Mike Relm are at the Vogue on December 21st for "Jingle Bell Rocks," a show in support of Covenant House.
Solars are also on the bill for the November 6th Wood Family Creeps show. It also starts at 8pm, not 8:30pm now.
Sex Negatives are now on the bill for the AIDS Wolf show on November 24th.
Nu Sensae, Gang Violence, and Role Mach are at the Astoria on November 28th, provided it's open by then.
Labels: basketball, bob dylan, lazy show recaps, no gold, show announcements, sorcerers
Thursday, September 18, 2008
trapped in an elevator
Shindig sort of kicked off with more of a whimper than a bang on Tuesday. None of the bands were out and out terrible (someone might argue with me on that one), but nothing really blew me away either. I should note that a late (they were running behind) set in a bar setting wasn't the best place to get introduced to eventual winner (and Petroleum By-Products member) Zombie Pistolero, so I'll definitely reserve final judgment on his solo stuff. I have a feeling that I would've enjoyed the show at Cafe Montmartre more.
For the record, that photo is of some old dudes who sounded like they listened to a lot of Wire, not Zombie Pistolero. I think I liked them more than most people there.
Dead Ghosts and Manic Attracts are at Psych Night at the ANZA on the 25th of this month.
K-Os plays the Pit Pub at UBC with the Good News on the same night.
Taxes are at the Astoria (which will be open again) on the 27th for Better than Nothing. We Are Wolves will be their for a DJ set after their show, while locals Sex Attack! and Tyler Fedchuk hold things down for the rest of the evening. It's also Dustin's birthday. I would say to buy him a drink, but he gets a bar tab for running the night... and he's a jerk. Taxes are on at "11:30pm sharp."
Stamina Mantis kick of their tour on October 1st at Fake Jazz Wednesday at the Cobalt. gr8-2000, Blackmage, and Bird Costumes round out the bill.
Quintron & Miss Pussycat are at the Biltmore on October 18th. (thanks Carmen)
Land of Talk are at the Media Club on November 12th with Josh Reichmann. (thanks Jeff)
now playing: Wire - Heartbeat
Labels: lazy show recaps, shindig, show announcements
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
winner's blues
Not a bad way to end the summer.
Labels: basketball, bronx cheer, lazy show recaps, man hussy, mohawk lodge, the evaporators, victory square block party
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
light the match
Went to Mirah on Saturday. It was good.
Kinda busy. If you're not, Fake Jazz is hosting a night of duos on Wednesday with: Perilisk, Baboon Torture Division, Botox Sharpei, Yagin, Boogie Monster Band, Telephone Girls, and Chaos Disorder and Panic.
More show announcements and such in a few days.
now playing: Sonic Youth - New Hampshire
Labels: lazy show recaps, mirah, show announcements
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
secret life
Mutators LP release show... it was good. The LP is too.
Cadence Weapon is at Richard's on September 25th with Woodhands.
Horrorpops are at Richard's on October 5th.
Born Ruffians and Plants and Animals are at Richard's on October 10th.
Ladyhawk is at Richard's on October 24th with Attack in Black.
Gwar are at the Commodore with Kingdom of Sorrow and Toxic Holocaust on November 10th.
Deerhunter are at Richard's on November 20th with Times New Viking and Barr. I've never heard Times New Viking, but Barr opening means that you can at least saunter in a little late... actually, you probably should.
Metallica is at GM Place on December 2nd with Lamb of God and
Expendable Youth are now opening for the Juan MacLean on September 9th.
Nut Brown is now opening the International Falls show on the 17th of August.
Labels: lazy show recaps, mutators, shearing pinx, show announcements, zs
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
my aim is true
I neglected to mention the Whistler Music Festival for several reasons. For one, I didn't hear about it until almost right before. Two, after that I forgot. And finally, most of the line up sort of sucked anyhow. Although, if I had known that you could get a decent view from outside of the "venue" while relaxing in the grass up one of Blackcomb's slopes, rather than sitting on the scorched earth of the festival grounds for free, I would've said something. Sorry, internet.
Anyhow, I got in for free (thanks Shea), so I went to check out Broken Social Scene and Elvis Costello.
BSS were womenless like in Calgary, which is always a bit of a downer (I know Feist/Emily Haines/Amy Millan are busy, but is it that hard to find a lady to tour with them?). Also, while they're always pretty loose, they sounded almost sloppy on Sunday. "It's All Gonna Break" is still one of my favourite lives songs by anybody though.
Elvis split his time between old songs and new songs. His new stuff is alright, but, like most people, I'd imagine, I was there for the classics, and he certainly delivered on those. Highlights include a version of "Watching the Detectives" with the overdrive cranked (relatively speaking) and "(I Don't Want to Go To) Chesea," but my favourite part of the set was when "Alison" segued into Smokey Robinson's "Tracks of My Tears" and then "Tears of a Clown."
Plus, my fears of a Diana and Elvis duet thankfully didn't come to fruition.
The Victory Square Block Party (aka one of my favourite Vancouver events of the year) line-up is out. As always, some of Vancouver's finest bands will play, but the 2008 edition also features comedy (and not just when the sprinklers turn on accidentally) and DJs between sets. As always, it goes down on Labour Day.
On Friday, Ghosthouse is at the Railway with Vonnegut Dollhouse and Jeremy Stewart & the Rest.
On Saturday, Shearwater is doing an in-store at Zulu from 5-6pm.
On August 8th James Murphy and Pat Mahoney bring their Special Disco DJ night to Celebs. Paul Devro supports.
Chromatics help Tyler Fedchuk and Expendable Youth celebrate the 50th epidisode of Radio Zero on August 9th at the Sweatshop.
On August 15th, Better than Loneliness celebrates it's 1 year anniversary by coming back from the grave for a party at the Sweatshop with special guest Paul Devro.
Animal Names are having a CD release show on August 20th at the Media Club with Secret Mommy, No Gold, and Hermetic.
Steve Aoki is at the Celebs with Paul Devro on September 5th for the Blueprint 11th anniversary.
Digitalism does a DJ set on 9/11 with Expendable Youth at Caprice.
Goldfrapp is at the Commodore on September 16th.
The Wedding Present is at the Media Club on September 26th. (thanks G)
Liam Finn is at the Biltmore on September 27th.
And waaaaaaaaay in advance, M83 is at Richard's on November 26th.
Labels: broken social scene, elvis costello, lazy show recaps, show announcements
Thursday, July 17, 2008
and the way i feel tonight/i could die and i wouldn't mind
When I was about 14, my cousin sent me a pair of mixtapes that were filled with great music. Some of it I loved and still love, other songs are now forgotten, but the one band that hit me the hardest was the Jesus and Mary Chain. So, I was pretty psyched when I found out (thanks Matt!) that they were playing the Showbox Sodo in Seattle as part of their reunion tour.
Despite the dodgy sound in the venue (the new edition to the Showbox brand is a big echo filled, hangar-like room), they sounded amazing - just liked I'd imagined for the last dozen or so years. Jim Reid's singing voice is still spot on and his elder brother's guitar still wails like it did on all their records.
The setlist was mostly filled with JAMC classics, but they also played two new(ish) songs, "All Things Must Pass" and "Dead End Kids" (that Jim actually recorded for a solo project a few years back), and they didn't sound out of place at all.
I was hoping for "You Trip Me Up" or "Upside Down" in the encore, but it's sort of fitting that they'd end with "Reverence" ("I wanna die just like JFK/I wanna die in the USA") on the first date of their American tour.
Oh, and Jim sang all the songs, even the ones that William sings on record.
I only brought my point-and-shoot to the show, so try to squint a bit and that fuzzy picture will be more realistic (or just go here).
Speaking of reunions Wire are at the Commodore on October 16th. Tix are on sale this Saturday. (thanks Brian)
Bells Clanging are at the Bourbon with the Barcelona Chair on July 23rd.
Also on the 23rd, there's "a night of music and anecdotes dedicated to the career of infamous produced Phil Spector" at Little Mountain Studios cleverly titled, Full Spectrum
Nat Baldwin (whose latest record is pretty great) is at the Peanut Gallery on July 26th with Extra Life, Certain Breeds, and Yukon (who are from Baltimore. No Gold didn't switch back to their old name).
Shout Out Out Out Out is at Richard's on August 10th.
The Juan MacLean is at Richard's on September 9th.
Alejandro Escovedo is at the Biltmore on September 16th.
Elliott Brood is at Richard's on September 20th.
Ra Ra Riot are at the Media Club with Walter Meego the next night.
Jamie Lidell is at the Plaza on October 4th.
Sensitive indie boys (and girls) have a conundrum on their hands: Iron and Wine is at the Commodore on October 7th. It's a Sam Beam solo show and it's the same day as Sigur Ros.
And... 2 Many DJs is canceled. (thanks Matt)
now playing: Elvis Costello - Indoor Fireworks
Labels: lazy show recaps, show announcements, the jesus and mary chain
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
language city
Wolf Parade are still a great live band, but on Saturday, whenever they played something new, it sort of underscored just how much better their first LP was. That's not to say At Mount Zoomer is bad, but that first statement still holds.
On Thursday, Birth, Stamina Mantis, Blouse, Nihilist Party, and V. Vecker are at Pub 340.
Also on Thursday, Bison is at the Plaza with Grass City, and Impeders of Progress.
This Friday, Paul Devro spins in the back room at Shine.
Also this Friday, Terrorbird are celebrating their 7" release at the ER with Pink Noise, Zombie Pistolero & His Guns, and Adult Books.
This Saturday, the B-Lines, White Lung, and Chris-a-riffic are at 70 E. 2nd (at Ontario).
Also this Saturday, All Purpose Voltage Heroes are at the Astoria for Better Than Nothing.
On July 25th, Cosmetics (featuring members of Ice Cream and Petroleum By-Products) and Reflektions do 1/2 Alive at 340.
On August 2nd, Grouper, Ilyas Ahmed, and the Aja Rose Band are at Hoko's. All-ages, as usual.
August 4th sees Terrorbird and Cosmetics supporting Jeremy Jay at 340
And Low Budget is at Blastramp at the Bourbon on August 7th.
Labels: lazy show recaps, show announcements, wolf parade
Saturday, July 12, 2008
december '93
After Wire and Eric's Trip, I'm 2-for-2 on reunion shows (hopefully 3-for-3 after JAMC on Wednesday). I'm about to head out to Wolf Parade, so I'll leave it at that.
Oh, except one more thing:
To the girl who complained after the band finished that she "didn't like that part when they let their guitars feedback for so long."
You do know that they're named after a Sonic Youth song, right?
Labels: eric's trip, lazy show recaps
