Thursday, May 26, 2011
bike home
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
Friday, May 20, 2011
waiting for nothing
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
Thursday, April 07, 2011
to tell the truth, oh, this could be the last time
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
Sunday, January 09, 2011
there's nothing but rain here on the west coast
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
Thursday, March 04, 2010
i'll never belong
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
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, June 11, 2009
processing plant
I spent the entire second night of Music Waste at the Cobalt as well. That wasn't my initial plan, but I got to Shudder Gallery just as Prophecy Sun was set to start and it was packed and I bailed on heading over to Honey to finish off the evening since Sex Negatives and Boogie Monster were on last at the Cobalt.
Speaking of the latter, they were definitely the highlights of a pretty good night all around. If you read this fairly regularly, you know that I'm not opposed to seeing the same bands over and over if I really like them, but one thing about seeing Sex Negatives is that it's always different, sometimes markedly so. Boogie Monster just get better every time I see them.
It was also my first time seeing Ahna (although I think I've seen Anju play solo once or twice), who were awesome.
Chip's Not Dead is a charity run that benefits the BC Children's Hospital. You can find out more and register for the run HERE, but you should also know that there are some bands playing. Daniel Wesley, Run GMC, Armchair Cynics, and Current Swell all perform.
On June 26th, Collapsing Opposites, Fanshaw, Julianna Barwick, and Tally Ho! (Rose Melberg and Larissa Lloyva) play Funky Winkerbean's.
Discorder presents a Canada Day party at the Astoria with Gang Violence, MT-40, and Reflektionss.
Grouper, Empty Love, and Diadem are at St. Andrew's Wesley Church on July 18th.
Mika Miko play the Biltmore on July 22nd with Audacity, White Lung, and Nu Sensae.
And, Bert Jansch is canceled. No word on why. (thanks Rachel)
now playing: the Rolling Stones - When the Whip Comes Down
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
rockers east vancouver
Music Waste 2009 Picks
Honestly, the fest is pretty great from top to bottom this year, but here are a few of my "must-sees," keeping in mind that you'll be able to see some of them again and you may have seen some of them already.
Hopefully you picked up a pass already, because as of right now they're completely sold out. If you slept on it, they'll have a few more printed up for tomorrow and they'll be sold at select shows on a first-come-first-served basis, with all the details revealed at the Music Waste Blog sometime tomorrow.
A full list of set times can be found here.
And, I was going to do a MW mixtape, but some far more capable people already beat me to it:
June 9/10th Mix by Tony X
June 11th Mix by Logan
June 12th Mix by Tyler Fedchuk
June 13th Mix by Ian Wyatt
Sarah Cordingley took the first third, fifth, and eighth photos up there... the rest I stole off of MySpace.
Oh, and I didn't post weekly listings on Monday, since all of the regulars are taking part in Music Waste.
Tuesday
Graham Clark @ Cafe Montmartre (starts @ 9pm, without specific set times)
I'd be lying if I said I took in enough comedy to give an educated opinion of it, but Graham Clark is a funny, funny man. Also, I voted for him in the last election (protest vote *insert obligatory bad "better than those other clowns" joke here*) and if I could vote for the guy, I can surely recommend that you go see him.
Healthy Students @ the Cobalt (11:30pm)
When Healthy Students are on, you won't have any other Music Waste affiliated choices, but even if there was something else to see, chances are, it wouldn't be better than this. Healthy Students is Andy and Greg from Secret Mommy/Winning/the Red Light Sting and Al and Steve from Taxes playing hardcore punk, which means Andy will be riffing hard on guitar and Greg will be screaming his balls off. Go see this so you'll be psyched enough to come see them on the 19th, when they play Damaged Goods.
Wednesday
Sex Negatives and Ejaculation Death Rattle @ the Cobalt (Fake Jazz starts at 10pm and goes non-stop on two stages)
Sex Negatives are hands down one of the best noise bands in the city. And, this being Vancouver, that's saying a lot. Ejaculation Death Rattle were probably the highlight of Fake Jazz at Music Waste last year, which is also saying a lot.
Thursday
Makeout Videotape @ Honey (11pm)
To be honest, I'm not really into the idea of bands being lo-fi on purpose. When Robert Pollard questioned why anyone would purposely produce themselves like old Guided by Voices, when all they wanted to do was sound like the Who, he sort of hit the nail on the head, if you ask me. That said, I'm pretty sure you could throw this band in Mushroom Studios with Rick Rubin behind the boards and it would still sound awesome. Muddy, pristine, fuzzy, or crystal clear; great songs are still great songs and these two seem to have a lot of them.
Techromancer @ the Biltmore (9:30pm)
I should start by mentioning that I know and like one half of Techromancer. But, I should also mention that I had no idea Calli was in this band when I heard them for the first time and they were the only Music Waste submission that was an unknown act that was also a unanimous 'yes' when the shortlisting was taking place.
Friday
All the bands at the Biltmore (first band at 11pm)
If you missed out on passes and you're only willing to pony up for one show on Friday, this is the one. You'll be seeing some bands that have been around the block, but White Lung, Nu Sensae, and Modern Creatures are some of Vancouver's finest. And, since it wouldn't be Music Waste without some (mostly) unheard talent, you get Needles & Pins' second show ever.
Ghost Bees @ the Secret Loft (11:15pm)
I've been telling people that Ghost Bees sounds like "Coco Rosie if Coco Rosie didn't make me want to stick paring knives in my ears," but maybe that's not the most convincing description. Think of them like a slightly less orchestral Joanna Newsom with harmonized vocals. Oh, and if you're not a Joanna Newsom fan, note that those vocals are less of an "acquired taste" as well.
Fine Mist @ the Media Club (10:30pm)
It's about time Vancouver's "indie" scene produced an honest to goodness pop act. More DJs need to get their hands on "Stop or Start" so it can this year's "Je Veux te Voir" for me: we can't leave the club til they play it. Barring that, you can hear them do it (and more) live.
Timecopz @ the Astoria (10:15pm)
I also know one of the guys in Timecopz, but again, heard them and gave them a thumbs up before I realized the guy yelling/singing was my friend Todd. These guys do no-nonsense punk as well as Todd pulls dekes in street hockey. And he's a big man with Kyle Wellwood's hands.
Saturday
Japandroids @ the Biltmore (10pm)
Because Pitchfork said so, obviously... and it'll be your last chance to rock out to "Young Hearts Spark Fire" and "Sovereignty" live until they return home from conquering North America in August.
The Abramson Singers @ the Secret Loft (9:10pm)
I don't cover that many singer-songwriters here. At least, I don't cover enough to make a dent in the sizable local scene. But I listened to Leah's first record at least once a day for about 4-months after I finally got it and after hearing just a handful of songs from her next one, I'm pretty sure I'll be doing the same when that drops in a week too.
No Gold @ Funky Winkerbean's (11:30pm)
We're in Vancouver. Summer finally arrived. And No Gold is playing in a sweaty E. Van bar. Jump on your beat up road bike and pedal your skinny-jeaned ass over to see them.
Twin Crystals @ the Astoria (12:30pm)
It's fitting that Twin Crystals have the distinction of closing out the official portion of this year's Music Waste, because they're always one of the city's finest live acts and on some nights they're its very best.
See you out there!
now playing: Japandroids - Heart Sweats
Friday, May 08, 2009
it's raining in vancouver, but i don't give a fuck
This year's Music Waste schedule is up. As per usual, it's a nice mix of established local acts, some Vancouver bands that you may not have heard yet, and a handful of touring bands. This year, they've also added comedy and art shows into the mix. The Music Waste Guide (presumably with set times, but apparently, and sadly, without the snarky write ups) will run in the June issue of Beat Route Magazine and passes (which pay for themselves if you hit up a mere three shows) should be in stores tomorrow.
MT-40, Cat Attack, and Manta Raygun play Funky Winkerbean's on Sunday.
The Mount Saint Helens Vietnam Band plays an early show at the Biltmore on May 22nd with No Gold.
And since we're already talking about that weekend...
The same night, I get to play booker at Damaged Goods for the second time. Fine Mist and Candles
On May 23rd, Harlem Shakes are at Glory Days at the Biltmore. Passion Pit is touring with them, but I don't think they'll be playing here.
On May 24th, Glory Days brings Amanda Blank and Spank Rock's Devlin & Darko to the Biltmore. Love & Electrik provide local support.
Black Dice, Wolf Eyes, and Sade Sade (ex-Yellow Swans) are at the Biltmore on May 25th. I'm pretty psyched for this.
Rye Rye is at Shine on June 4th.
now playing: Wilco - Radio Cure
Thursday, February 12, 2009
now playing: Handsome Furs - I'm Confused
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
darkness on the edge of gastown
I hope you'll excuse my recapping the last night of Music Waste two days late, but I had to finish up some other writing and also recover from five nights of running around, fueled on beer and sketchy eats.
Words about Sunday will be short and sweet, since I mostly caught bands that I've praised here many a time.
Japandroids were the first and only thing that brought me out to the Astoria during Music Waste (though I wanted to check out Mohawk Lodge before Crystal Castles got pushed back). They threw in a few new songs that I imagine will be on the LP they're recording next week(!) and also played on the floor for some reason. They were also loud. Really loud.
After Japandroids finished up, I bussed up to 340 for Modern Creatures. In case you were wondering, they're still pretty awesome.
Mutators had the honour of closing out Music Waste (the official part, anyhow). I think I flip flop every week, but for now, I'm going to go ahead and proclaim them my favourite live band in Vancouver (although Bison, JPNDRDS, the Clips, and Twin Crystals are up there).
Thanks to the dude who found my glasses on the ground after I got elbowed in the face during their set.
Annnnnnd...
A huge thanks to Cam and Sarah for once again organizing one my favourite local events of the year.
Speaking of Japandroids, they're at Pub 340 on August 13th with Casy & Brian and Twin Crystals. They play with Twin Crystals again on August 23rd at the Cobalt. Shearing Pinx and Adjective round out the bill.
Speaking of Modern Creatures, they're at 340 on June 30th with Meth Teeth.
Bad Moves (who share a member with, but don't sound much like Gang Violence) are at the Astoria on June 21st for CD release show with Dylan Thomas, Your Vancouver Vipers, and Animal Names.
now playing: Cat Power - Say
Sunday, June 08, 2008
amy white out
I got to Hoko's for day four of Music Waste just in time to catch the last two songs from gr8-2000. Tom was his usually rambunctious self, even donning a cape before a set closing cover of Kraftwerk's "Pocket Calculator."
Piper Davis followed things up. She (and her band) sort of stuck out on the bill. All the acts at Hoko's shared an electronic element, but Piper's set injected a welcomed dosage of soul into the evening's proceedings. It's been about a year since the first time I saw her perform, but I'm still amped to hear "Academics" - which she closed with - any day.
Onomatopoeia is Dustin's (from Sex Attack/Adjective) "retired" solo project. It consists of Dustin singing over electro tracks he plays off of an ibook. Half the room seemed to love it (myself included) and half the room seemed to hate it and Tom (gr8-2000) really fucking loved it.
I think Music Waste billed the headliner as Jesse Taylor, and the last time they played they were Soft Disco, but right now they're playing as Reflektions. I really wanted to attempt to catch the entire bill over at 340, so I only caught a couple songs, but the eletronic joints are familiar sounding Jesse songs (since he's singing) backed by music that's a little more dance floor friendly than Twin Crystals or Channels 3+4.
I got to 340 in time to catch the very end of Gang Violence's set and spent large parts of the evening cursing the scheduling, because they were awesome. Rocking guitar and drums with a healthy dose of noisy electronics over top, the pair were one of the best surprises of the fest so far for me. They're looking for a singer. Hopefully they find a good one, because the rest is already great.
Golden Touch, who were another two-piece, followed up. They didn't blow me away like Gang Violence, but their straight ahead punk wasn't anything to complain about. And there were a few tunes that stuck out as pretty great.
I'd heard good things about Sorcerers, so I was excited about seeing them. They sound a lot like Bad Brains (early Bad Brains), which certainly isn't the worst thing that could happen to a band. As with Bad Brains, I liked the songs that leaned a little further from reggae and more towards the hardcore side of things, but they're whole set was pretty sweet. Plus, their lead singer looks like Axl before he went crazy, got fat, and stopped working with Slash and how awesome is that?
White Lung: still awesome (in case you were wondering). Yeah, not much more to say than that.
See you out there for the final night of Music Waste!
now playing: Guns n Roses - Nightrain
Saturday, June 07, 2008
alice practice
I tempered my disappointment over missing Mohawk Lodge at the Astoria by continuing to sit in my apartment drinking since we didn't have to be at the show at 10pm anymore, so you are free to take that into consideration when I say that Crystal Castles were awesome live. I'm pretty into the album, but with a live drummer, and perhaps more importantly, with the sound cranked way up, their songs sounded about twice as good.
When the record was released, I know there were a few people who felt that, while it was good, it didn't deliver on the massive amount of pre-release buzz. I don't really see how anyone could, but regardless, when it comes to their live show, believe the hype.
Thanks to Trevor at Last Gang for the ticket hook-up.
Since we weren't going to make it to the Astoria until there was only about 20-minutes left in Mohawk Lodge's set, we went straight to 340 for Basketball. I've been pretty big on these guys for awhile, but they get better and better every time I see them.
When I was at 340, I ran into Justin from Mutators, who just got back from an epically long tour. He let me know that his band will be at the ER next Saturday to celebrate the release of the Emergency Room compilation. It's an LP and comes with a booklet that sounds amazing. Nu Sensae, White Lung, Sick Buildings, Petroleum By-Products, Twin Crystals, Vapid, and Defektors also perform and feature on the comp. This show, and the accompanying record, will be amazing.
Mutators are also having an LP (!) release at the Emergency Room on June 28th. Certain Breeds, Josh Rose, and Dozell Brothers help them celebrate. As excited as I am for Sled Island, I'm pretty bummed that I'll be in Calgary when this goes down.
Music Waste day 4 tonight!
Friday, June 06, 2008
ostrich fight song
I Spent most of night two of Music Waste at Hoko's. I was in the mood for sushi, but I chose it over Radha because I wanted to make sure I didn't miss Andy Dixon.
I was actually wrong about it being their first show. Andy did one in NYC, there was one for friends, and another one last week here in town, as Greg from Winning kindly pointed out. But regardless, as of now, it was a relatively rare performance. More importantly, it was a great performance. Musically, it seems like the guy can do no wrong, and the two-piece interpretations of songs from the Mice of Mt. Career drove that point home once again.
I just can't get into Greenbelt Collective. Perhaps their bursting-with-joy nature bums out my bitter self.
Catamaran started things off. They didn't blow me out of the water, but their no-frills pop was pretty good.
After Hoko's I walked over to 340 and caught a bit of Dead Ghosts. They sort of remind me of a messier Exploding Hearts, which isn't too shabby at all.
Mogwai are at the Commodore on September 6th with Fuck Buttons. Psyched.
The Walkmen are at Richard's on August 28th with Man Man for another sweet double bill. (thanks Mike)
Band of Horses are at the Orpheum on the same night. Does that seem a bit large for them to anyone else? opening for Beck. (thanks Neil)
now playing: Kenny Loggins - Danger Zone
Thursday, June 05, 2008
all the boys with the homemade microphones make very interesting sounds
When it comes to music that get labeled (rightly or wrongly) as "noise," I tend to lean towards the kind that aims to peel the paint off of the walls. So, the Music Waste edition of Fake Jazz Wednesday was hit or miss for me. Of course, a night of audio experimentation is bound to be that way, especially if it's so eclectically curated. Personal preferences aside, and while I do like to just hang out and chat between acts during regular editions of Fake Jazz, the (nearly) non-stop action due to the use of the second "stage" at the Cobalt was pretty awesome.
I'll save the act by act breakdown, but I've got to mention that the headliners, Ejaculation Death Rattle, were worth watching for spectacle alone. They also created some pretty interesting sounds to go along with the boas, dance contest (complete with prizes), and executioner-masked band masseuse.
That !!! show on August 31st has a venue and an opener. The band will be sharing the stage at Richard's with Handsome Furs. Strange (but awesome) combination.
Hayden is at the Orpheum on October 8th.
Collapsing Opposites, Women, and Mt. Royal are at Hoko's on June 21st. I got Women's forthcoming album in the mail and didn't listen to it, because frankly, I think "Women" is a dumb name for a bunch of dudes (though not as bad as "the Feminists"). Anyhow, as with Fuck Buttons, other people recommending them made me crack the plastic on the CD and give it a spin. And it's pretty rad. Definitely worth checking out if they can reassemble their sound live.
Speaking of Hoko's, see you there/340/Radha tonight.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
we hate this city
Jesse Taylor by Sarah Cordingley
So, I was going to do up a Music Waste guide of sorts. In fact, I had already written part of it. But then I scrapped it.
If I were to write up my picks for the fest, they'd be plucked out of the bands I know, and if you've been here with any regularity, they'd be bands that you've likely already read about. And you know what? That sort of betrays what I think is one of the beautiful things about Music Waste: seeing things that you've never seen and even seeing things that you maybe wouldn't normally see.
So, while there are a few live favourites that I don't plan on missing (Mutators, White Lung, Mohawk Lodge) and I'm definitely catching the live debut of Mt. Career, my Music Waste pick is to buy a pass, put on your favourite walking shoes, and hit as many different shows as possible.
Vancouver is building a rep for it's noise/punk scene, but there's something for everybody at this year's fest, from the most docile of folk bands (Dyad) to good old fashioned heart on your sleeve rock (Mohawk Lodge) to glitchy electronic (gr8-2000) to the harshest of the aforementioned noise (check the Cobalt tonight for 2[!] stages of non-stop action)
And about those passes, they're only $15 and you can still grab them at Zulu, Scratch, Limelight, RedCat, and Audiopile... and you should, because there's not a Hell of a lot else going on this weekend anyhow.
Chalked Up has an interview with half of the organizing duo, Cam Reed (the other half took that striking portrait of Jesse up there).
Oh, and while we're talking about one of my favourite musical happenings that this city has to offer, let's also mention one of the other ones: Shindig is accepting submissions for this year. I can already hear the awkward silence when I tank my first joke for beer.
now playing: Wilco - She's a Jar
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
weird weight
I should also point out that June 5th at Hoko's boasts Mt. Career as the headliner, whom you might know better as Andy Dixon. As far as I know, this will be his first show supporting his solo record.
I actually heard that Andy and Greg (also of Winning and ex-Red Light Sting) and Steve and Al from Taxes were going to play a set of hardcore tunes under the name "Healthy Students"... but I guess that didn't pan out.
Stereolab is at the Commodore on October 19th with Monade
Since I usually end up talking about shows that those of you under the age of majority can't attend, here's one that turns the tables. Those philanthropic gentlemen in the Clips are lending their talents to Urban Aid 2008, which is an annual fundraiser for Covenant House. The show goes down on May 22nd at the Jericho Community Centre and ticket info is on the friendster 3.0 event page. You've got to show your Go Card to get in. If you don't know what a Go Card is, you're too old to be hanging out with a room full of high school students anyhow.
If you entered the Gnarls Barkley contest, you might have been thinking, "I wonder if he forgot to pick a winner." And you would be right. But I finally did that this morning. So congrats to Ben who gets a bunch of CDs and that sick double vinyl that includes the new Gnarls record in reverse. Thanks to Adam at Warner for hooking up the prize.
Oh, and New Music West is this week. There are a handful of great bands playing... but most of the line up caters to people who think going to the Roxy and hearing the house band play while they play the numbers game is "seeing live music."
now playing: the White Stripes - Black Math
Friday, April 04, 2008
here comes summer
Here's a link for you though: http://www.musicwaste.ca/.
Last year's festival info is still up, but the Music Waste-rs are looking to change that really soon. This year's Waste runs from June 5th-8th at tba dive bars around Vancouver, but they still need to fill out the line-up.
If your interested in playing (and being roasted in the always awesome Music Waste Guide) send your stuff to cameron [at] musicwaste.ca before April 25th.
And, while I'm a selfish bastard who plans to be half cut and wandering from venue to venue all four nights, they need volunteers to make this thing happen. If you think you're into that, shoot an email to submissions [at] musicwaste.ca.
The Mutators tour fundraiser originally scheduled for the 26th is now next Friday... which means you can hit up the Clips and Woodhands and then walk over to the ER for something a little more abrasive right after. Quite the evening.
Chris left this in the comments, so I'll just cut and paste it:
April 10 - Tittsworth @Republicthe Modern
April 12 - Hercules & Love Affair @ Royal Unicorn
April 18 - De La Soul @ Commodore
April 30 - Danny Michel @ Railway
May 2 - DeVotchka @ Richard's
June 2 - Kanye, Lupe, N*E*R*D @ Rhianna @ GM Place
June 20 - Herbie Hancock @ Orpheum
SWAK announced a bunch of stuff:
Joan of Arc is at the Media Club on June 2nd.
Crystal Castles is at Richard's on June 6th.
Sea Wolf is at the Media Club on June 12th with the Jealous Girlfriends
The fucking RZA is at Richard's on June 25th. I'm going to see him at Sled Island though (and Wire!)
Girl Talk is at the Commodore on July 24th.
Les Savy Fav is at the same place on July 26th.
And Turbonegro is canceled. Refunds at your point of purchase.
Oh, and I went to see Eddie Vedder on Wednesday. Most of the songs he played were written by other people, which was interesting (Dylan, James Taylor, Tom Waits, Springsteen, Daniel Johnston, among others were covered). Cue obvious quip of, "that's better than listening to songs he wrote" by anonymous internet dude.
And Chad VanGaalen played a free show on Monday at the Biltmore for someone from CBC Radio 3's retirement party. I forgot to mention it. Sorry, internet.
Friday, June 15, 2007
i was so heavy, i was out of my head
I'll Make You a Tape (Vol. 6)
download: I was wasted
Last Music Waste post until preparations for next year's fest go into high gear, I promise. I'd like to send out a big thank you to the crew over at Only for putting everything together. This year was the first year that I actually "did the fest" properly and used my pass to venue hop instead of just cherry-picking shows here and there. Needless to say, I had a blast. Here's a short collection of some of the best bands I saw, plus a couple more that I wish I could have caught. Since some of the bands only have 7" or cassettes or haven't released anything, some of the mp3s are 96kbps MySpace rips. But that's even more reason to go out to a show or head down to Zulu or Scratch to show some great local bands some love with your pocket books.
1. Secret Mommy - Plays
2. Old Phoebe - Shower Song
3. Ghost House - Deathquarium
4. L. Abramson - Letters to B
5. Japandroids - Coma Complacency
6. White Lung - Local Garbage
7. Modern Creatures - Oh Save Us
8. Taxes - Talkinboutmygeneration.com
9. Mutators - What Cuts Want
10. Bison - Wartime
now playing: Modern Creatures - Oh Save Us
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
heavy sleeper
Why didn't anyone tell me that Mutators were so awesome before? They were like the result of some sick science experiment involving Wolf Eyes and Bikini Kill. It was noisy and beautiful. Although, to be completely honest, they had me before they played a note when their lead singer came on stage with an oscillator attached to her belt. A shame that they went on last, when a lot of people had cleared out already.
But back to earlier in the evening...
I got to the Lamp for the NCRC kickoff party in time to catch most of Love and Mathematics. I feel like I must have seen them before, but I couldn't recall what they sounded like. They played dreamy pop music. It didn't blow me away, but the Lamplighter isn't exactly the greatest venue for something so soft and layered.
The Doers were up next. I quite like them, but unlike most people I know, I think I'd prefer if they just played their punk on electric guitars. The acoustic thing is sort of novel though.
I've always been on the fence about Elizabeth. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't down with the new-new-wave thing, but for some reason they've never really hooked me. They played a tight set, as usual, though.
When I see bands like the Yesterdais, I always wonder where 20-somethings who dress like they're from an era gone by meet each other. Internet mesage boards? Secret 60's boy group conventions? Strawberry Alarm Clock mailing list? I was under the impression that they only dressed like the Hollies on stage, but my friend Aaron saw them on the Drive the other day and quashed that assumption.
Devendra Banhart is at the Commodore on September 1st with Noah Georgeson. Mothers! Lock up your sons.
Peter Bjorn and John are at the Commodore on September 21st. They still don't believe in commas.
Lady Sovereign is doing a PA set at Shine after she opens for Gwen and Akon on June 15th. (via Chalked Up)
And finally, apparently Ryan Adams is going to be in town on July 28th. File that under "rumour" for now.
now playing: L. Abramson - Letters to B
bike home
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
Labels: electric owl, music waste, waldorf
Friday, May 20, 2011
waiting for nothing
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
Labels: music waste
Thursday, April 07, 2011
to tell the truth, oh, this could be the last time
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
Labels: lcd soundsystem, music waste, record store day
Sunday, January 09, 2011
there's nothing but rain here on the west coast
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
Labels: jody glenham, music waste, video
Thursday, March 04, 2010
i'll never belong
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.Short notice, but Clipse, the Crystal Method, the Good News, and Humans play Rocky Mountaineer (1755 Cottrell) tonight. Tix are only $15 online.
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.
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
Labels: music waste, show announcements
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, June 11, 2009
processing plant
I spent the entire second night of Music Waste at the Cobalt as well. That wasn't my initial plan, but I got to Shudder Gallery just as Prophecy Sun was set to start and it was packed and I bailed on heading over to Honey to finish off the evening since Sex Negatives and Boogie Monster were on last at the Cobalt.
Speaking of the latter, they were definitely the highlights of a pretty good night all around. If you read this fairly regularly, you know that I'm not opposed to seeing the same bands over and over if I really like them, but one thing about seeing Sex Negatives is that it's always different, sometimes markedly so. Boogie Monster just get better every time I see them.
It was also my first time seeing Ahna (although I think I've seen Anju play solo once or twice), who were awesome.
Chip's Not Dead is a charity run that benefits the BC Children's Hospital. You can find out more and register for the run HERE, but you should also know that there are some bands playing. Daniel Wesley, Run GMC, Armchair Cynics, and Current Swell all perform.
On June 26th, Collapsing Opposites, Fanshaw, Julianna Barwick, and Tally Ho! (Rose Melberg and Larissa Lloyva) play Funky Winkerbean's.
Discorder presents a Canada Day party at the Astoria with Gang Violence, MT-40, and Reflektionss.
Grouper, Empty Love, and Diadem are at St. Andrew's Wesley Church on July 18th.
Mika Miko play the Biltmore on July 22nd with Audacity, White Lung, and Nu Sensae.
And, Bert Jansch is canceled. No word on why. (thanks Rachel)
now playing: the Rolling Stones - When the Whip Comes Down
Labels: ahna, boogie monster, music waste, sex negatives, show announcements, show recaps
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
rockers east vancouver
Music Waste 2009 Picks
Honestly, the fest is pretty great from top to bottom this year, but here are a few of my "must-sees," keeping in mind that you'll be able to see some of them again and you may have seen some of them already.
Hopefully you picked up a pass already, because as of right now they're completely sold out. If you slept on it, they'll have a few more printed up for tomorrow and they'll be sold at select shows on a first-come-first-served basis, with all the details revealed at the Music Waste Blog sometime tomorrow.
A full list of set times can be found here.
And, I was going to do a MW mixtape, but some far more capable people already beat me to it:
June 9/10th Mix by Tony X
June 11th Mix by Logan
June 12th Mix by Tyler Fedchuk
June 13th Mix by Ian Wyatt
Sarah Cordingley took the first third, fifth, and eighth photos up there... the rest I stole off of MySpace.
Oh, and I didn't post weekly listings on Monday, since all of the regulars are taking part in Music Waste.
Tuesday
Graham Clark @ Cafe Montmartre (starts @ 9pm, without specific set times)
I'd be lying if I said I took in enough comedy to give an educated opinion of it, but Graham Clark is a funny, funny man. Also, I voted for him in the last election (protest vote *insert obligatory bad "better than those other clowns" joke here*) and if I could vote for the guy, I can surely recommend that you go see him.
Healthy Students @ the Cobalt (11:30pm)
When Healthy Students are on, you won't have any other Music Waste affiliated choices, but even if there was something else to see, chances are, it wouldn't be better than this. Healthy Students is Andy and Greg from Secret Mommy/Winning/the Red Light Sting and Al and Steve from Taxes playing hardcore punk, which means Andy will be riffing hard on guitar and Greg will be screaming his balls off. Go see this so you'll be psyched enough to come see them on the 19th, when they play Damaged Goods.
Wednesday
Sex Negatives and Ejaculation Death Rattle @ the Cobalt (Fake Jazz starts at 10pm and goes non-stop on two stages)
Sex Negatives are hands down one of the best noise bands in the city. And, this being Vancouver, that's saying a lot. Ejaculation Death Rattle were probably the highlight of Fake Jazz at Music Waste last year, which is also saying a lot.
Thursday
Makeout Videotape @ Honey (11pm)
To be honest, I'm not really into the idea of bands being lo-fi on purpose. When Robert Pollard questioned why anyone would purposely produce themselves like old Guided by Voices, when all they wanted to do was sound like the Who, he sort of hit the nail on the head, if you ask me. That said, I'm pretty sure you could throw this band in Mushroom Studios with Rick Rubin behind the boards and it would still sound awesome. Muddy, pristine, fuzzy, or crystal clear; great songs are still great songs and these two seem to have a lot of them.
Techromancer @ the Biltmore (9:30pm)
I should start by mentioning that I know and like one half of Techromancer. But, I should also mention that I had no idea Calli was in this band when I heard them for the first time and they were the only Music Waste submission that was an unknown act that was also a unanimous 'yes' when the shortlisting was taking place.
Friday
All the bands at the Biltmore (first band at 11pm)
If you missed out on passes and you're only willing to pony up for one show on Friday, this is the one. You'll be seeing some bands that have been around the block, but White Lung, Nu Sensae, and Modern Creatures are some of Vancouver's finest. And, since it wouldn't be Music Waste without some (mostly) unheard talent, you get Needles & Pins' second show ever.
Ghost Bees @ the Secret Loft (11:15pm)
I've been telling people that Ghost Bees sounds like "Coco Rosie if Coco Rosie didn't make me want to stick paring knives in my ears," but maybe that's not the most convincing description. Think of them like a slightly less orchestral Joanna Newsom with harmonized vocals. Oh, and if you're not a Joanna Newsom fan, note that those vocals are less of an "acquired taste" as well.
Fine Mist @ the Media Club (10:30pm)
It's about time Vancouver's "indie" scene produced an honest to goodness pop act. More DJs need to get their hands on "Stop or Start" so it can this year's "Je Veux te Voir" for me: we can't leave the club til they play it. Barring that, you can hear them do it (and more) live.
Timecopz @ the Astoria (10:15pm)
I also know one of the guys in Timecopz, but again, heard them and gave them a thumbs up before I realized the guy yelling/singing was my friend Todd. These guys do no-nonsense punk as well as Todd pulls dekes in street hockey. And he's a big man with Kyle Wellwood's hands.
Saturday
Japandroids @ the Biltmore (10pm)
Because Pitchfork said so, obviously... and it'll be your last chance to rock out to "Young Hearts Spark Fire" and "Sovereignty" live until they return home from conquering North America in August.
The Abramson Singers @ the Secret Loft (9:10pm)
I don't cover that many singer-songwriters here. At least, I don't cover enough to make a dent in the sizable local scene. But I listened to Leah's first record at least once a day for about 4-months after I finally got it and after hearing just a handful of songs from her next one, I'm pretty sure I'll be doing the same when that drops in a week too.
No Gold @ Funky Winkerbean's (11:30pm)
We're in Vancouver. Summer finally arrived. And No Gold is playing in a sweaty E. Van bar. Jump on your beat up road bike and pedal your skinny-jeaned ass over to see them.
Twin Crystals @ the Astoria (12:30pm)
It's fitting that Twin Crystals have the distinction of closing out the official portion of this year's Music Waste, because they're always one of the city's finest live acts and on some nights they're its very best.
See you out there!
now playing: Japandroids - Heart Sweats
Labels: music waste, show announcements
Friday, May 08, 2009
it's raining in vancouver, but i don't give a fuck
This year's Music Waste schedule is up. As per usual, it's a nice mix of established local acts, some Vancouver bands that you may not have heard yet, and a handful of touring bands. This year, they've also added comedy and art shows into the mix. The Music Waste Guide (presumably with set times, but apparently, and sadly, without the snarky write ups) will run in the June issue of Beat Route Magazine and passes (which pay for themselves if you hit up a mere three shows) should be in stores tomorrow.
MT-40, Cat Attack, and Manta Raygun play Funky Winkerbean's on Sunday.
The Mount Saint Helens Vietnam Band plays an early show at the Biltmore on May 22nd with No Gold.
And since we're already talking about that weekend...
The same night, I get to play booker at Damaged Goods for the second time. Fine Mist and Candles
On May 23rd, Harlem Shakes are at Glory Days at the Biltmore. Passion Pit is touring with them, but I don't think they'll be playing here.
On May 24th, Glory Days brings Amanda Blank and Spank Rock's Devlin & Darko to the Biltmore. Love & Electrik provide local support.
Black Dice, Wolf Eyes, and Sade Sade (ex-Yellow Swans) are at the Biltmore on May 25th. I'm pretty psyched for this.
Rye Rye is at Shine on June 4th.
now playing: Wilco - Radio Cure
Labels: music waste, show announcements
Thursday, February 12, 2009
I can't remember if I've mentioned this already or not, but Music Waste is accepting submissions from now until April 15th: submissions@musicwaste.ca.
now playing: Handsome Furs - I'm Confused
Labels: music waste
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
darkness on the edge of gastown
I hope you'll excuse my recapping the last night of Music Waste two days late, but I had to finish up some other writing and also recover from five nights of running around, fueled on beer and sketchy eats.
Words about Sunday will be short and sweet, since I mostly caught bands that I've praised here many a time.
Japandroids were the first and only thing that brought me out to the Astoria during Music Waste (though I wanted to check out Mohawk Lodge before Crystal Castles got pushed back). They threw in a few new songs that I imagine will be on the LP they're recording next week(!) and also played on the floor for some reason. They were also loud. Really loud.
After Japandroids finished up, I bussed up to 340 for Modern Creatures. In case you were wondering, they're still pretty awesome.
Mutators had the honour of closing out Music Waste (the official part, anyhow). I think I flip flop every week, but for now, I'm going to go ahead and proclaim them my favourite live band in Vancouver (although Bison, JPNDRDS, the Clips, and Twin Crystals are up there).
Thanks to the dude who found my glasses on the ground after I got elbowed in the face during their set.
Annnnnnd...
A huge thanks to Cam and Sarah for once again organizing one my favourite local events of the year.
Speaking of Japandroids, they're at Pub 340 on August 13th with Casy & Brian and Twin Crystals. They play with Twin Crystals again on August 23rd at the Cobalt. Shearing Pinx and Adjective round out the bill.
Speaking of Modern Creatures, they're at 340 on June 30th with Meth Teeth.
Bad Moves (who share a member with, but don't sound much like Gang Violence) are at the Astoria on June 21st for CD release show with Dylan Thomas, Your Vancouver Vipers, and Animal Names.
now playing: Cat Power - Say
Labels: japandroids, modern creatures, music waste, mutators, show announcements, show recaps
Sunday, June 08, 2008
amy white out
I got to Hoko's for day four of Music Waste just in time to catch the last two songs from gr8-2000. Tom was his usually rambunctious self, even donning a cape before a set closing cover of Kraftwerk's "Pocket Calculator."
Piper Davis followed things up. She (and her band) sort of stuck out on the bill. All the acts at Hoko's shared an electronic element, but Piper's set injected a welcomed dosage of soul into the evening's proceedings. It's been about a year since the first time I saw her perform, but I'm still amped to hear "Academics" - which she closed with - any day.
Onomatopoeia is Dustin's (from Sex Attack/Adjective) "retired" solo project. It consists of Dustin singing over electro tracks he plays off of an ibook. Half the room seemed to love it (myself included) and half the room seemed to hate it and Tom (gr8-2000) really fucking loved it.
I think Music Waste billed the headliner as Jesse Taylor, and the last time they played they were Soft Disco, but right now they're playing as Reflektions. I really wanted to attempt to catch the entire bill over at 340, so I only caught a couple songs, but the eletronic joints are familiar sounding Jesse songs (since he's singing) backed by music that's a little more dance floor friendly than Twin Crystals or Channels 3+4.
I got to 340 in time to catch the very end of Gang Violence's set and spent large parts of the evening cursing the scheduling, because they were awesome. Rocking guitar and drums with a healthy dose of noisy electronics over top, the pair were one of the best surprises of the fest so far for me. They're looking for a singer. Hopefully they find a good one, because the rest is already great.
Golden Touch, who were another two-piece, followed up. They didn't blow me away like Gang Violence, but their straight ahead punk wasn't anything to complain about. And there were a few tunes that stuck out as pretty great.
I'd heard good things about Sorcerers, so I was excited about seeing them. They sound a lot like Bad Brains (early Bad Brains), which certainly isn't the worst thing that could happen to a band. As with Bad Brains, I liked the songs that leaned a little further from reggae and more towards the hardcore side of things, but they're whole set was pretty sweet. Plus, their lead singer looks like Axl before he went crazy, got fat, and stopped working with Slash and how awesome is that?
White Lung: still awesome (in case you were wondering). Yeah, not much more to say than that.
See you out there for the final night of Music Waste!
now playing: Guns n Roses - Nightrain
Labels: gr8-2000, music waste, onomatopoeia, piper davis, show recaps
Saturday, June 07, 2008
alice practice
So, originally, the actual band performances at Richard's were supposed to go between 9-11pm with the 1/2 Alive guys doing their last night at Dick's from 11pm onward (they're at Pub 340 every second week starting next Friday). But sometime yesterday someone decided to switch things up, so Crystal Castles didn't end up going on until after midnight.
I tempered my disappointment over missing Mohawk Lodge at the Astoria by continuing to sit in my apartment drinking since we didn't have to be at the show at 10pm anymore, so you are free to take that into consideration when I say that Crystal Castles were awesome live. I'm pretty into the album, but with a live drummer, and perhaps more importantly, with the sound cranked way up, their songs sounded about twice as good.
When the record was released, I know there were a few people who felt that, while it was good, it didn't deliver on the massive amount of pre-release buzz. I don't really see how anyone could, but regardless, when it comes to their live show, believe the hype.
Thanks to Trevor at Last Gang for the ticket hook-up.
Since we weren't going to make it to the Astoria until there was only about 20-minutes left in Mohawk Lodge's set, we went straight to 340 for Basketball. I've been pretty big on these guys for awhile, but they get better and better every time I see them.
When I was at 340, I ran into Justin from Mutators, who just got back from an epically long tour. He let me know that his band will be at the ER next Saturday to celebrate the release of the Emergency Room compilation. It's an LP and comes with a booklet that sounds amazing. Nu Sensae, White Lung, Sick Buildings, Petroleum By-Products, Twin Crystals, Vapid, and Defektors also perform and feature on the comp. This show, and the accompanying record, will be amazing.
Mutators are also having an LP (!) release at the Emergency Room on June 28th. Certain Breeds, Josh Rose, and Dozell Brothers help them celebrate. As excited as I am for Sled Island, I'm pretty bummed that I'll be in Calgary when this goes down.
Music Waste day 4 tonight!
Labels: basketball, crystal castles, music waste, show announcements, show recaps
Friday, June 06, 2008
ostrich fight song
I Spent most of night two of Music Waste at Hoko's. I was in the mood for sushi, but I chose it over Radha because I wanted to make sure I didn't miss Andy Dixon.
I was actually wrong about it being their first show. Andy did one in NYC, there was one for friends, and another one last week here in town, as Greg from Winning kindly pointed out. But regardless, as of now, it was a relatively rare performance. More importantly, it was a great performance. Musically, it seems like the guy can do no wrong, and the two-piece interpretations of songs from the Mice of Mt. Career drove that point home once again.
I just can't get into Greenbelt Collective. Perhaps their bursting-with-joy nature bums out my bitter self.
Catamaran started things off. They didn't blow me out of the water, but their no-frills pop was pretty good.
After Hoko's I walked over to 340 and caught a bit of Dead Ghosts. They sort of remind me of a messier Exploding Hearts, which isn't too shabby at all.
Mogwai are at the Commodore on September 6th with Fuck Buttons. Psyched.
The Walkmen are at Richard's on August 28th with Man Man for another sweet double bill. (thanks Mike)
Band of Horses are at the Orpheum on the same night
now playing: Kenny Loggins - Danger Zone
Labels: andy dixon, catamaran, dead ghost, greenbelt collective, lazy show recaps, music waste, show announcements
Thursday, June 05, 2008
all the boys with the homemade microphones make very interesting sounds
When it comes to music that get labeled (rightly or wrongly) as "noise," I tend to lean towards the kind that aims to peel the paint off of the walls. So, the Music Waste edition of Fake Jazz Wednesday was hit or miss for me. Of course, a night of audio experimentation is bound to be that way, especially if it's so eclectically curated. Personal preferences aside, and while I do like to just hang out and chat between acts during regular editions of Fake Jazz, the (nearly) non-stop action due to the use of the second "stage" at the Cobalt was pretty awesome.
I'll save the act by act breakdown, but I've got to mention that the headliners, Ejaculation Death Rattle, were worth watching for spectacle alone. They also created some pretty interesting sounds to go along with the boas, dance contest (complete with prizes), and executioner-masked band masseuse.
That !!! show on August 31st has a venue and an opener. The band will be sharing the stage at Richard's with Handsome Furs. Strange (but awesome) combination.
Hayden is at the Orpheum on October 8th.
Collapsing Opposites, Women, and Mt. Royal are at Hoko's on June 21st. I got Women's forthcoming album in the mail and didn't listen to it, because frankly, I think "Women" is a dumb name for a bunch of dudes (though not as bad as "the Feminists"). Anyhow, as with Fuck Buttons, other people recommending them made me crack the plastic on the CD and give it a spin. And it's pretty rad. Definitely worth checking out if they can reassemble their sound live.
Speaking of Hoko's, see you there/340/Radha tonight.
Labels: music waste, show announcements, show recaps
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
we hate this city
Jesse Taylor by Sarah Cordingley
So, I was going to do up a Music Waste guide of sorts. In fact, I had already written part of it. But then I scrapped it.
If I were to write up my picks for the fest, they'd be plucked out of the bands I know, and if you've been here with any regularity, they'd be bands that you've likely already read about. And you know what? That sort of betrays what I think is one of the beautiful things about Music Waste: seeing things that you've never seen and even seeing things that you maybe wouldn't normally see.
So, while there are a few live favourites that I don't plan on missing (Mutators, White Lung, Mohawk Lodge) and I'm definitely catching the live debut of Mt. Career, my Music Waste pick is to buy a pass, put on your favourite walking shoes, and hit as many different shows as possible.
Vancouver is building a rep for it's noise/punk scene, but there's something for everybody at this year's fest, from the most docile of folk bands (Dyad) to good old fashioned heart on your sleeve rock (Mohawk Lodge) to glitchy electronic (gr8-2000) to the harshest of the aforementioned noise (check the Cobalt tonight for 2[!] stages of non-stop action)
And about those passes, they're only $15 and you can still grab them at Zulu, Scratch, Limelight, RedCat, and Audiopile... and you should, because there's not a Hell of a lot else going on this weekend anyhow.
Chalked Up has an interview with half of the organizing duo, Cam Reed (the other half took that striking portrait of Jesse up there).
Oh, and while we're talking about one of my favourite musical happenings that this city has to offer, let's also mention one of the other ones: Shindig is accepting submissions for this year. I can already hear the awkward silence when I tank my first joke for beer.
now playing: Wilco - She's a Jar
Labels: music waste, shindig
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
weird weight
The Music Waste line up has been announced. A quick surveying of the landscape reveals that a lot of my favourites are playing at (roughly) the same times, but the fest is always more about seeing bands you don't know anyhow. Although, I'm dead set on catching Mutators before they had back on part two of their epic Spring/Summer tour.
I should also point out that June 5th at Hoko's boasts Mt. Career as the headliner, whom you might know better as Andy Dixon. As far as I know, this will be his first show supporting his solo record.
I actually heard that Andy and Greg (also of Winning and ex-Red Light Sting) and Steve and Al from Taxes were going to play a set of hardcore tunes under the name "Healthy Students"... but I guess that didn't pan out.
Stereolab is at the Commodore on October 19th with Monade
Since I usually end up talking about shows that those of you under the age of majority can't attend, here's one that turns the tables. Those philanthropic gentlemen in the Clips are lending their talents to Urban Aid 2008, which is an annual fundraiser for Covenant House. The show goes down on May 22nd at the Jericho Community Centre and ticket info is on the friendster 3.0 event page. You've got to show your Go Card to get in. If you don't know what a Go Card is, you're too old to be hanging out with a room full of high school students anyhow.
If you entered the Gnarls Barkley contest, you might have been thinking, "I wonder if he forgot to pick a winner." And you would be right. But I finally did that this morning. So congrats to Ben who gets a bunch of CDs and that sick double vinyl that includes the new Gnarls record in reverse. Thanks to Adam at Warner for hooking up the prize.
Oh, and New Music West is this week. There are a handful of great bands playing... but most of the line up caters to people who think going to the Roxy and hearing the house band play while they play the numbers game is "seeing live music."
now playing: the White Stripes - Black Math
Labels: contest winners, music waste, show announcements
Friday, April 04, 2008
here comes summer
Would anyone be terribly disappointed if I stopped making all the band/artist names hyperlinks? It takes a (relatively) long time, provided the band in question isn't "HEALTH" or something, you can use google as well (or better) than I can. And frankly, I'm lazy.
Here's a link for you though: http://www.musicwaste.ca/.
Last year's festival info is still up, but the Music Waste-rs are looking to change that really soon. This year's Waste runs from June 5th-8th at tba dive bars around Vancouver, but they still need to fill out the line-up.
If your interested in playing (and being roasted in the always awesome Music Waste Guide) send your stuff to cameron [at] musicwaste.ca before April 25th.
And, while I'm a selfish bastard who plans to be half cut and wandering from venue to venue all four nights, they need volunteers to make this thing happen. If you think you're into that, shoot an email to submissions [at] musicwaste.ca.
The Mutators tour fundraiser originally scheduled for the 26th is now next Friday... which means you can hit up the Clips and Woodhands and then walk over to the ER for something a little more abrasive right after. Quite the evening.
Chris left this in the comments, so I'll just cut and paste it:
April 10 - Tittsworth @
April 12 - Hercules & Love Affair @ Royal Unicorn
April 18 - De La Soul @ Commodore
April 30 - Danny Michel @ Railway
May 2 - DeVotchka @ Richard's
June 2 - Kanye, Lupe, N*E*R*D @ Rhianna @ GM Place
June 20 - Herbie Hancock @ Orpheum
SWAK announced a bunch of stuff:
Joan of Arc is at the Media Club on June 2nd.
Crystal Castles is at Richard's on June 6th.
Sea Wolf is at the Media Club on June 12th with the Jealous Girlfriends
The fucking RZA is at Richard's on June 25th. I'm going to see him at Sled Island though (and Wire!)
Girl Talk is at the Commodore on July 24th.
Les Savy Fav is at the same place on July 26th.
And Turbonegro is canceled. Refunds at your point of purchase.
Oh, and I went to see Eddie Vedder on Wednesday. Most of the songs he played were written by other people, which was interesting (Dylan, James Taylor, Tom Waits, Springsteen, Daniel Johnston, among others were covered). Cue obvious quip of, "that's better than listening to songs he wrote" by anonymous internet dude.
And Chad VanGaalen played a free show on Monday at the Biltmore for someone from CBC Radio 3's retirement party. I forgot to mention it. Sorry, internet.
Labels: lazy show recaps, music waste, show announcements
Friday, June 15, 2007
i was so heavy, i was out of my head
I'll Make You a Tape (Vol. 6)
download: I was wasted
Last Music Waste post until preparations for next year's fest go into high gear, I promise. I'd like to send out a big thank you to the crew over at Only for putting everything together. This year was the first year that I actually "did the fest" properly and used my pass to venue hop instead of just cherry-picking shows here and there. Needless to say, I had a blast. Here's a short collection of some of the best bands I saw, plus a couple more that I wish I could have caught. Since some of the bands only have 7" or cassettes or haven't released anything, some of the mp3s are 96kbps MySpace rips. But that's even more reason to go out to a show or head down to Zulu or Scratch to show some great local bands some love with your pocket books.
1. Secret Mommy - Plays
2. Old Phoebe - Shower Song
3. Ghost House - Deathquarium
4. L. Abramson - Letters to B
5. Japandroids - Coma Complacency
6. White Lung - Local Garbage
7. Modern Creatures - Oh Save Us
8. Taxes - Talkinboutmygeneration.com
9. Mutators - What Cuts Want
10. Bison - Wartime
now playing: Modern Creatures - Oh Save Us
Labels: mixtapes, music waste
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
heavy sleeper
Why didn't anyone tell me that Mutators were so awesome before? They were like the result of some sick science experiment involving Wolf Eyes and Bikini Kill. It was noisy and beautiful. Although, to be completely honest, they had me before they played a note when their lead singer came on stage with an oscillator attached to her belt. A shame that they went on last, when a lot of people had cleared out already.
But back to earlier in the evening...
I got to the Lamp for the NCRC kickoff party in time to catch most of Love and Mathematics. I feel like I must have seen them before, but I couldn't recall what they sounded like. They played dreamy pop music. It didn't blow me away, but the Lamplighter isn't exactly the greatest venue for something so soft and layered.
The Doers were up next. I quite like them, but unlike most people I know, I think I'd prefer if they just played their punk on electric guitars. The acoustic thing is sort of novel though.
I've always been on the fence about Elizabeth. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't down with the new-new-wave thing, but for some reason they've never really hooked me. They played a tight set, as usual, though.
When I see bands like the Yesterdais, I always wonder where 20-somethings who dress like they're from an era gone by meet each other. Internet mesage boards? Secret 60's boy group conventions? Strawberry Alarm Clock mailing list? I was under the impression that they only dressed like the Hollies on stage, but my friend Aaron saw them on the Drive the other day and quashed that assumption.
Devendra Banhart is at the Commodore on September 1st with Noah Georgeson. Mothers! Lock up your sons.
Peter Bjorn and John are at the Commodore on September 21st. They still don't believe in commas.
Lady Sovereign is doing a PA set at Shine after she opens for Gwen and Akon on June 15th. (via Chalked Up)
And finally, apparently Ryan Adams is going to be in town on July 28th. File that under "rumour" for now.
now playing: L. Abramson - Letters to B
Labels: music waste, show announcements, show recaps
