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.
Monday, June 16, 2008
don't panic
I was going to start off by saying that the Emergency Room Compilation, Vol. 1 is the most important collection of local underground music since "X"... but I can't really think of another truly notable document of Vancouver music other than this one that sort of slipped under the radar a few years ago (and that one included some acts that had very deservedly become relatively well known already).
While it's certainly not exhaustive, the LP is a snapshot of some of the most exciting things going on musically in this city that, largely, have yet to be noticed outside of the Lower Mainland. Plus, it shines a light on the locale that doesn't just serve as your primary place to see these bands play, but also as a practice space/recording studio/and hangout for many of the artists involved.
It's also one of my favourite places to see a show.
On Saturday, the eight bands on the comp all played the DIY space to celebrate the record's release.
I actually thought I was going to be late, but in typical ER fashion, despite the lengthy bill, Nu Sensae was just getting ready to go on when I arrived at midnight. The place was packed, so I didn't snap any pics of them (or that many in general), but my "photography" leaves much to be desired anyhow.
Daniel and Andrea were awesome, as per usual.
Petroleum By-Products were up next, but I actually missed them, when I stepped out for a bit (everyone played pretty short sets, due to the number of bands).
This was second time that I've seen Vapid, and while I thought they were pretty good the first time, I wasn't dying to see them again. They were great on Saturday though, and I'm looking forward to checking them out again soon now.
Sick Buildings were amazing. I'm bummed that I missed them at Wolf Eyes, as their "set" was completely different at Pat's (it involved eight people amongst the crowd blowing on rape whistles while Josh Rose fired sampled whistles back at them).
I knew Josh ran Run Down Sun, but beyond that, I only recognized him as the very polite, soft spoken guy at Zulu, so it was a bit of a surprise to see him looking rather surly on stage and then spitting out, "I call myself Sick Buildlings... this is the last harsh noise set I'm going to do, so consider yourselves lucky."
And then he did what was, quite frankly, the most "punk rock" thing that you could do at a noisy, avant garde, punk rock show, and jumped into a monologue about a plane ride, keeping things going long enough to illicit a fair amount of groans, calls of "you suck," and "play some fucking music," before leaving the story hanging with "and then she said..." and launching into the sickest, nastiest sounding "music" I've heard in ages. The contrast made the latter half of the performance sound even more powerful.
I sincerely hope that the "last harsh noise set" admission was just stage banter, and if not, I hope he reconsiders. If you're a fan of this type of thing, and you see "Sick Buildings" on a show poster, do yourself a favour and get your ass to wherever Josh is playing.
White Lung were nothing out of the ordinary for them, meaning they were great. Hopefully, we get some more recorded output out of them soon, because the songs seem to be coming at a fairly rapid clip.
Twin Crystals continue to get better every time I see them, and considering that they started out pretty goddamn good, that's saying quite a bit. They sounded amazing and Jesse was full of energy to the point where I thought he might knock out a ceiling panel or two with his guitar.
You probably know what I'm going ot say about Mutators, so I'll leave it at that (it was 4am already, so I bailed before Defektors).
But here's a Mutators update. Their was a mastering problem with their full-length, so the 28th won't be an LP release party. It will be a tour fundraiser though. So go down and check out one of Vancouver's best bands before they head out on tour for the rest of the Summer.
Oh, and if you didn't pick up a copy on Saturday, you can get your hands on the ER comp at Scratch (and I presume also Zulu and RedCat) now.
This Friday, Octoberman, Katie Stelmanis, and Chris-a-riffic are at Grace Gallery. This show was originally scheduled for Astoria, as you may or may not recall. And it's worth noting, since galleries usually don't have such restrictions, that this one is licensed and therefore 19+. Sorry kids.
This Saturday, DD/MM/YYYY are at the Cobalt with JPNDRDS, No Gold, and the SSRIs.
Also this Saturday, Basketball plays a Saturday edition of Friendship at the Astoria.
Forest City Lovers are at Little Mountain Studios with Aaron Beckum on June 26th.
And last, but definitely not least (not even close), Spiritualized are at the Commodore on September 13th. Tix are on sale Friday at 10am. Shit yes! (thanks Brian)
now playing: My Bloody Valentine - live in London, 06-18-2008
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
Thursday, March 06, 2008
glitter pills
Apparently 90% of the people who had planned to see the nearly sold out Crystal Castles/HEALTH show were going for the former, because after the duo was forced to drop off the bill, attendance was a bit sparse at Dick's last night, despite the newly discounted ticket price.
Basketball started off the evening. To be completely honest, the last two times I saw them, I was really drunk, though I remember them being pretty good. Last night, they were awesome. I didn't notice - or, at least, I didn't remember - all the sequenced drums and synth squeals that laid the backbone for most of their songs (although David assured me that they'd always been there). Some of the jammy outros were a bit too long for my tastes, but on the whole they were really good. See that kids? You don't need alcohol to have a good time. In fact, you might want to avoid it, if you plan on appreciating what you're seeing and hearing.
Mutators were vicious. I don't think there's band in the city that sounds more brutal and menacing. But if you've been here before, you know my feelings on them.
I was pretty enamored with HEALTH the the last time they came through Vancouver, but their set last night was amazing. One of the best things I've seen all year, and even more impressive because, due to the rather small crowd, the band didn't really have anything to feed off to bring such an energetic performance to the stage. Their album is one of my favourite records right now, but yesterday's live show brought things to the next level.
And because sometimes I like to throw to semi-related, shameless plugs, if you want to pick up the new copy of Color you'll find the article that I wrote on them..
Hey, let's give away a Hot Chip record. Congratulations go out to Gabriel, who takes home the ultra sick "Ready for the Floor" single that many of you (and me) wanted. Thanks to Will at Cornerstone Promotion for hooking up the much sought after prize.
This month's edition of Technotown Boogiedown is a doozy. Secret Mommy, Montag, Colby Sparks are the featured performers, while regulars (and part-organizer) the Swords of Righteousness Brigade holds it down as usual. DNGROUS ADDRESS provide some added visual flair and it all goes down on March 20th.
Terrorbird, White Owl, and the Boogie Monster are at the Astoria on March 29th.
The Blow does an all-ager at St. James Hall on April 17th.
Buck 65 is at the Commodore on May 7th. Cadence Weapon, whose fantastic new record came out on Tuesday, opens.
The Kooks are at the Commodore on May 24th.
Monday, February 25, 2008
damaged enough
I was going to take it sort of easy this weekend, but there was a ton of stuff going on, so that resolution became one those "who am I kidding?" statements.
On Friday, I headed down to the Astoria to catch Twin Crystals. They weren't as intense and loud as last time I've seen them, but that wasn't worse per se, just different. Jesse only rocked a guitar on the first song, with the rest of the set being characterized by he and Jeremiah's dueling synths. Oh, and just because it was less loud, doesn't mean it wasn't loud enough.
They've got a super-limited (50 copies) lathe cut 10" up for sale at Summer Lovers Unlimited that I should order soon.
I'm pretty into Taxes at the worst of times, but they were on fire on Friday. Best performance of their's that I've seen for sure. When Twin Crystals took the stage, Jesse quipped that he "(didn't) know how (they) could follow Taxes." Usually such statements - even when the opening band really delivers - are a polite way to give a nod to whomever went on before you, but as good as Twin Crystals consistently are, he may have had a legitimate point that night. That's not taking anything away from Twin Crystals, Taxes were just really on point.
I bailed during Owl Drugs first song. That's not a reflection on them, since I wasn't even there long enough to form a proper opinion, but I was still under the false impression that I was going to have a relaxed (and sleep filled) Friday/Saturday.
On Saturday, I started things off at Hoko's, getting there in time for Nihilist Party. I was down with the beats, but less down with the rhymes (well, vocals, not necessarily "rhymes"). But there are worse side dishes for your sushi, I suppose.
Terrorbird were up next, and were playing as a two-piece. Good stuff as usual, though when they had the extra keys, they definitely added something to the overall product.
Nu Sensae were their usual wonderful selves: loud and fast. So fast, in fact, that I stepped out for a moment and missed most of their set. My loss.
gr8-2000 finished things off with his frenetic brand of electro. Tom, as always, was full of boundless energy, and was also having fun throwing thinly veiled barbs at the people chatting in the back.
And also worth a mention (and some praise): Ben from Crystal Beard was there with the lovely ladies who do videos at BtL to provide some added visual flavour to the evening.
I was going to head to the Biltmore after that, but apparently they've been rezoned and can only stay open until 1am now, so it was off to the Emergency Room.
I got there in time for Mutators, whom I have nothing new to say about... favourite live act in Vancouver... slayed... etc. etc. etc.
Actually, on that note, Shearing Pinx were up next, and my sentiments are similar: quality as usual.
The main event of the evening was Monotonix, who were here all the way from Tel Aviv. To put it succinctly, they were mind blowing.
I was standing around wondering when they were going to start when my question was answered by a drum cymbal that was thrust in the air... on fire. From there it was about an hour of absolute madness. Throw their name into google, and you'll note that Vancouver isn't the only place that's been totally destroyed by these guys.
The recorded material just isn't the same, but if they ever come back, definitely go see them.
And if you were there, no, that wasn't Frank Zappa.
Speaking of Twin Crystals, they're kicking off their tour (which takes them down to SXSW and back) on Friday at the ER. Nu Sensae, Basketball, and Adjective are going to help give them a proper send off. Justin, Jesse, and Benjamin spin records after the bands.
Attack in Black and Smoosh open up the Tokyo Police Club show on May 16th at the Plaza.
Atmosphere is at the Commodore on May 14th with Abstract Rude
Mutators and Modern Creatures are having a fundraiser for the epic (seriously, check the dates) tour that they're set to embark on this Spring/Summer on April 26th at the ER.
The SSRIs are giving away their music. I haven't listened yet, but if you like it, make sure you toss them some money by paying to see them play... but that goes without saying.
Speaking of free music, if you haven't already checked out the latest Radio Zero podcast, you should get on that. All of them are quality, but #47 features one of my favourite tracks from the (sadly) now-defunct local unit, Fuck Me USA, "Infinite Slope."
now playing: Radio Zero Podcast (December 9th, 2005)
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
spit tastes like metal
I don't know what these sound like, because I don't think my office would appreciate AIDS Wolf/Mutators coming out of my speakers. Courtesy of this guy.
Monday, November 26, 2007
we multiply
I quite like Lovvers, AIDS Wolf's most well known release, but I honestly wasn't expecting the band to be all that great live. I figured they'd be good, and definitely worth seeing (especially with Mutators and Shearing Pinx opening), but they were far, far better than that.
The Emergency Room was packed (if you were there on Halloween, it was almost like that), and the band came ready to throw down. If you've seen any promo photos of the foursome, you'd expect that they're well aware of how to make a spectacle out of something, but there was more to things than just some style over substance. Aurally, the performance was sort of like being assaulted for an hour... if being assaulted were one of the more enjoyable things that could ever happen to you. I've always been drawn more to guitar sounds than anything else when it comes to instrumentation, but Yannick's drumming was something fierce. Again, I like the recordings, but no matter how much I crank up my turntable/ipod, the studio versions can't touch the live experience. The crowd, who were amped and unruly seemed to agree, and Chloe spent most of the set "singing" amongst them.
Before the show started, I interviewed Chloe for ChalkedUp so look for that (and some proper photos from the shoot in the first picture) in the next little while.
Mutators (like JPNDRDS, Bison, the Clips, and a few others) have been talked up so much here that I probably can't say anything positive about them that I haven't already said. If you're reading this from the West Coast of the US, check out their tour dates though. They're coming to a town near you (with Shearing Pinx). Don't miss them.
Leif was sans oscillator belt, but her, Justin, and Brody had contact mics running through a bunch of amps/effects fill in in the gyrating noise department.
I was hanging back during Shearing Pinx, and didn't want to shove my way to the front (because I never like to shove my way to anywhere), but even though I couldn't see them, I could hear them, and what I heard was ace. I haven't seen them in months, and the last time I was nursing a nasty headache. As much as I like them, they didn't really help my headache (neither did the decision to drink a double Jameson's), so needless to say, Saturday was a much more pleasurable experience.
As per usual, Steve has some nice photos up.
Shout out to Kristin for bringing AIDS Wolf to town.
Mutators, Shearing Pinx, and Twin Crystals are at 340 on December 20th.
The day after that, my friend Neil is spinning at the Astoria. We're having a joint birthday party. 1981 was a good year... or maybe bad, depending on whether you like either of us.
Twin Crystals open for Glass Candy at 1/2 Alive on the 14th.
DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist are at the Commodore on February 11th.
Ministry are at the Commodore on March 28th. (thanks DB)
The Devlin & Darko (Spank Rock) DJ set is off tomorrow.
Edit: this is just do ridiculous not to post. Keep in mind that this idiot makes more money in a year than most of us will see in a decade (maybe two decades), and you can stop wondering why the (major) music industry is going down the tubes.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
rat face
If you haven't had a chance to see them, they're (roughly) the same age Be Your Own Pet, dress like the Polysics, and sound like the B-52s, and that ain't half bad. In fact, it's quite good.
They play Library Square (for Casbah!) with Culte du Cargo (whose record is sitting perpetually on top of my growing "must listen to" stack of CDs) and Stolen Bicycles Gang on November 30th and at Unicorn on December 14th with Hallmark and Ladies Night. I don't know the actual order for either of those shows... so just show up on time for once.
Japandroids played what was apparently the "latest set ever" at Shindig, which unfortunately resulted in half the room being cleared by the time they played. They're still one of the - or perhaps the - local act(s) that I most enjoy live, but there was a drunk girl in front of stage who was having a better time than anybody... maybe ever. They closed with a cover of my favourite Wire song.
Today a coworker of mine noted that he "enjoyed that middle band (Treacherous Machete) more this time, because that guy (Burnside) wasn't drunk - or so drunk, anyway." I suppose I would agree. Although, drunk or sober, the duo are more entertaining than when the same people say/write the same "Blues Hammer" joke about six times. I mean, don't get me wrong, I dig Ghostworld too, but at least throw in another racist joke or something (just kidding. I love you, Only).
Liam from No Gold was kind enough to email to let me know that they're playing Pat's on November 30th with Colorbook, Basketball (formerly Raking Bombs), who are playing their first show in ages, and International Falls (whose CD I also need to give some proper spins to). I'm moving the next morning, but I'm still going to try to check this out after Cadence Weapon.
I finally picked up a copy of the Mutators 7" that's out on the Broadway to Boundary (the fine gentleman who also brought you the Hot Loins 7"). If you've ever seen them play, then hearing me tell you that it slays will come as no surprise. Expect a "proper" (you know, as in, I expand that previous sentence with a bunch of descriptors and unrelated anecdotes you didn't need to know) review on Streethawk soon-ish (there's a White Lung one up right now - surprise: also slays). Each side of the 45 ends on a locked groove so the blissful noise goes forever and ever and ever and ever and ever and ever and yougetthepoint.
In case you forgot, they're playing on Saturday with AIDS Wolf and Shearing Pinx for an early show at the ER.
Twin Crystals are playing Fake Jazz tonight at the Cobalt, which is where I'm going right now...
now playing: Nurse & Solider - Satellightning (thanks Luke!)
Monday, October 29, 2007
ghouls night out
On Saturday, I attempted to catch both Paradise Island and Tara Jane O'Neil at the Secret Space, while bouncing next door to take in the Misfits cover night at the Emergency Room, but I managed to miss TJO when I got wrapped up in Nu Sensae/N213's joint set at the ER.
Paradise Island features Erase Errata's Jenny Hoyston, whose set was a mix of experimental, almost ambient noises and pretty standard guitar songs. It was sort of hit or miss, but it wasn't as if one of the aforementioned styles was entirely well executed and one wasn't. The highlight for me was when a bunch of sleigh bells and tambourines got distributed around the room and everything was bathed in a wash of jingling.
It was the first time I've been to the Secret Space as well. It's a fun little room. They also had a wicked pumpkin on display, that I clearly should have taken a picture of.
After Pardise Island's set, I made my way next door to the Emergency Room. The Nu Sensae/N213 set that distracted me from getting back to the Secret Space in time for Tara Jane O'Neil was pretty great. Actually, everything was pretty great, but the Mutators' set was awesome (shocking that I'd think that, I know). If you can't sing like Danzig (and how can?), you may as well sound like you're shredding your vocal chords.
There were plenty of great outfits on display, which of course included Misfits make-up and a more than a few Joey Only hairstyles (I know there's an actual name for that, but I don't know it).
I once again neglected to grab a Mutators 7" before they ran out/stopped selling them. The good news for me (and you) is that they're at Audiopile now and at Scratch later this week... or you can get one by mail from the Broadway to Boundary.
Lots of great local stuff going on this week, as you can see over in the sidebar.
Unfortunately, Taxes won't be playing Shindig this week, but A Relative Distance, who were supposed to play the week that Treacherous Machete won, are filling in. Somewhat Taxes related, Sean is doing Morning Brew again. Don't call it a comeback.
I got my hands on the new Clips record, Matterhorn. Full review will be up on Streethawk tonight/tomorrow morning (plus an interview), but in the meantime, I will say that my expectations have been satisfied (and they were pretty high). Grab your own copy on Thursday at the ANZA.
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
Monday, June 16, 2008
don't panic
I was going to start off by saying that the Emergency Room Compilation, Vol. 1 is the most important collection of local underground music since "X"... but I can't really think of another truly notable document of Vancouver music other than this one that sort of slipped under the radar a few years ago (and that one included some acts that had very deservedly become relatively well known already).
While it's certainly not exhaustive, the LP is a snapshot of some of the most exciting things going on musically in this city that, largely, have yet to be noticed outside of the Lower Mainland. Plus, it shines a light on the locale that doesn't just serve as your primary place to see these bands play, but also as a practice space/recording studio/and hangout for many of the artists involved.
It's also one of my favourite places to see a show.
On Saturday, the eight bands on the comp all played the DIY space to celebrate the record's release.
I actually thought I was going to be late, but in typical ER fashion, despite the lengthy bill, Nu Sensae was just getting ready to go on when I arrived at midnight. The place was packed, so I didn't snap any pics of them (or that many in general), but my "photography" leaves much to be desired anyhow.
Daniel and Andrea were awesome, as per usual.
Petroleum By-Products were up next, but I actually missed them, when I stepped out for a bit (everyone played pretty short sets, due to the number of bands).
This was second time that I've seen Vapid, and while I thought they were pretty good the first time, I wasn't dying to see them again. They were great on Saturday though, and I'm looking forward to checking them out again soon now.
Sick Buildings were amazing. I'm bummed that I missed them at Wolf Eyes, as their "set" was completely different at Pat's (it involved eight people amongst the crowd blowing on rape whistles while Josh Rose fired sampled whistles back at them).
I knew Josh ran Run Down Sun, but beyond that, I only recognized him as the very polite, soft spoken guy at Zulu, so it was a bit of a surprise to see him looking rather surly on stage and then spitting out, "I call myself Sick Buildlings... this is the last harsh noise set I'm going to do, so consider yourselves lucky."
And then he did what was, quite frankly, the most "punk rock" thing that you could do at a noisy, avant garde, punk rock show, and jumped into a monologue about a plane ride, keeping things going long enough to illicit a fair amount of groans, calls of "you suck," and "play some fucking music," before leaving the story hanging with "and then she said..." and launching into the sickest, nastiest sounding "music" I've heard in ages. The contrast made the latter half of the performance sound even more powerful.
I sincerely hope that the "last harsh noise set" admission was just stage banter, and if not, I hope he reconsiders. If you're a fan of this type of thing, and you see "Sick Buildings" on a show poster, do yourself a favour and get your ass to wherever Josh is playing.
White Lung were nothing out of the ordinary for them, meaning they were great. Hopefully, we get some more recorded output out of them soon, because the songs seem to be coming at a fairly rapid clip.
Twin Crystals continue to get better every time I see them, and considering that they started out pretty goddamn good, that's saying quite a bit. They sounded amazing and Jesse was full of energy to the point where I thought he might knock out a ceiling panel or two with his guitar.
You probably know what I'm going ot say about Mutators, so I'll leave it at that (it was 4am already, so I bailed before Defektors).
But here's a Mutators update. Their was a mastering problem with their full-length, so the 28th won't be an LP release party. It will be a tour fundraiser though. So go down and check out one of Vancouver's best bands before they head out on tour for the rest of the Summer.
Oh, and if you didn't pick up a copy on Saturday, you can get your hands on the ER comp at Scratch (and I presume also Zulu and RedCat) now.
This Friday, Octoberman, Katie Stelmanis, and Chris-a-riffic are at Grace Gallery. This show was originally scheduled for Astoria, as you may or may not recall. And it's worth noting, since galleries usually don't have such restrictions, that this one is licensed and therefore 19+. Sorry kids.
This Saturday, DD/MM/YYYY are at the Cobalt with JPNDRDS, No Gold, and the SSRIs.
Also this Saturday, Basketball plays a Saturday edition of Friendship at the Astoria.
Forest City Lovers are at Little Mountain Studios with Aaron Beckum on June 26th.
And last, but definitely not least (not even close), Spiritualized are at the Commodore on September 13th. Tix are on sale Friday at 10am. Shit yes! (thanks Brian)
now playing: My Bloody Valentine - live in London, 06-18-2008
Labels: mutators, nu sensae, petroleum by-products, show announcements, show recaps, sick buildings, the emergency room, twin crystals, vapid, white lung
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
Thursday, March 06, 2008
glitter pills
Apparently 90% of the people who had planned to see the nearly sold out Crystal Castles/HEALTH show were going for the former, because after the duo was forced to drop off the bill, attendance was a bit sparse at Dick's last night, despite the newly discounted ticket price.
Basketball started off the evening. To be completely honest, the last two times I saw them, I was really drunk, though I remember them being pretty good. Last night, they were awesome. I didn't notice - or, at least, I didn't remember - all the sequenced drums and synth squeals that laid the backbone for most of their songs (although David assured me that they'd always been there). Some of the jammy outros were a bit too long for my tastes, but on the whole they were really good. See that kids? You don't need alcohol to have a good time. In fact, you might want to avoid it, if you plan on appreciating what you're seeing and hearing.
Mutators were vicious. I don't think there's band in the city that sounds more brutal and menacing. But if you've been here before, you know my feelings on them.
I was pretty enamored with HEALTH the the last time they came through Vancouver, but their set last night was amazing. One of the best things I've seen all year, and even more impressive because, due to the rather small crowd, the band didn't really have anything to feed off to bring such an energetic performance to the stage. Their album is one of my favourite records right now, but yesterday's live show brought things to the next level.
And because sometimes I like to throw to semi-related, shameless plugs, if you want to pick up the new copy of Color you'll find the article that I wrote on them..
Hey, let's give away a Hot Chip record. Congratulations go out to Gabriel, who takes home the ultra sick "Ready for the Floor" single that many of you (and me) wanted. Thanks to Will at Cornerstone Promotion for hooking up the much sought after prize.
This month's edition of Technotown Boogiedown is a doozy. Secret Mommy, Montag, Colby Sparks are the featured performers, while regulars (and part-organizer) the Swords of Righteousness Brigade holds it down as usual. DNGROUS ADDRESS provide some added visual flair and it all goes down on March 20th.
Terrorbird, White Owl, and the Boogie Monster are at the Astoria on March 29th.
The Blow does an all-ager at St. James Hall on April 17th.
Buck 65 is at the Commodore on May 7th. Cadence Weapon, whose fantastic new record came out on Tuesday, opens.
The Kooks are at the Commodore on May 24th.
Labels: basketball, contest winners, health, hot chip, mutators, self-aggrandizing, show announcements, show recaps
Monday, February 25, 2008
damaged enough
I was going to take it sort of easy this weekend, but there was a ton of stuff going on, so that resolution became one those "who am I kidding?" statements.
On Friday, I headed down to the Astoria to catch Twin Crystals. They weren't as intense and loud as last time I've seen them, but that wasn't worse per se, just different. Jesse only rocked a guitar on the first song, with the rest of the set being characterized by he and Jeremiah's dueling synths. Oh, and just because it was less loud, doesn't mean it wasn't loud enough.
They've got a super-limited (50 copies) lathe cut 10" up for sale at Summer Lovers Unlimited that I should order soon.
I'm pretty into Taxes at the worst of times, but they were on fire on Friday. Best performance of their's that I've seen for sure. When Twin Crystals took the stage, Jesse quipped that he "(didn't) know how (they) could follow Taxes." Usually such statements - even when the opening band really delivers - are a polite way to give a nod to whomever went on before you, but as good as Twin Crystals consistently are, he may have had a legitimate point that night. That's not taking anything away from Twin Crystals, Taxes were just really on point.
I bailed during Owl Drugs first song. That's not a reflection on them, since I wasn't even there long enough to form a proper opinion, but I was still under the false impression that I was going to have a relaxed (and sleep filled) Friday/Saturday.
On Saturday, I started things off at Hoko's, getting there in time for Nihilist Party. I was down with the beats, but less down with the rhymes (well, vocals, not necessarily "rhymes"). But there are worse side dishes for your sushi, I suppose.
Terrorbird were up next, and were playing as a two-piece. Good stuff as usual, though when they had the extra keys, they definitely added something to the overall product.
Nu Sensae were their usual wonderful selves: loud and fast. So fast, in fact, that I stepped out for a moment and missed most of their set. My loss.
gr8-2000 finished things off with his frenetic brand of electro. Tom, as always, was full of boundless energy, and was also having fun throwing thinly veiled barbs at the people chatting in the back.
And also worth a mention (and some praise): Ben from Crystal Beard was there with the lovely ladies who do videos at BtL to provide some added visual flavour to the evening.
I was going to head to the Biltmore after that, but apparently they've been rezoned and can only stay open until 1am now, so it was off to the Emergency Room.
I got there in time for Mutators, whom I have nothing new to say about... favourite live act in Vancouver... slayed... etc. etc. etc.
Actually, on that note, Shearing Pinx were up next, and my sentiments are similar: quality as usual.
The main event of the evening was Monotonix, who were here all the way from Tel Aviv. To put it succinctly, they were mind blowing.
I was standing around wondering when they were going to start when my question was answered by a drum cymbal that was thrust in the air... on fire. From there it was about an hour of absolute madness. Throw their name into google, and you'll note that Vancouver isn't the only place that's been totally destroyed by these guys.
The recorded material just isn't the same, but if they ever come back, definitely go see them.
And if you were there, no, that wasn't Frank Zappa.
Speaking of Twin Crystals, they're kicking off their tour (which takes them down to SXSW and back) on Friday at the ER. Nu Sensae, Basketball, and Adjective are going to help give them a proper send off. Justin, Jesse, and Benjamin spin records after the bands.
Attack in Black and Smoosh open up the Tokyo Police Club show on May 16th at the Plaza.
Atmosphere is at the Commodore on May 14th with Abstract Rude
Mutators and Modern Creatures are having a fundraiser for the epic (seriously, check the dates) tour that they're set to embark on this Spring/Summer on April 26th at the ER.
The SSRIs are giving away their music. I haven't listened yet, but if you like it, make sure you toss them some money by paying to see them play... but that goes without saying.
Speaking of free music, if you haven't already checked out the latest Radio Zero podcast, you should get on that. All of them are quality, but #47 features one of my favourite tracks from the (sadly) now-defunct local unit, Fuck Me USA, "Infinite Slope."
now playing: Radio Zero Podcast (December 9th, 2005)
Labels: gr8-2000, monotonix, mutators, nihilist party, nu sensae, shearing pinx, show announcements, show recaps, ssris, taxes, terrorbird, twin crystals
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
spit tastes like metal
From Saturday:
I don't know what these sound like, because I don't think my office would appreciate AIDS Wolf/Mutators coming out of my speakers. Courtesy of this guy.
Monday, November 26, 2007
we multiply
I quite like Lovvers, AIDS Wolf's most well known release, but I honestly wasn't expecting the band to be all that great live. I figured they'd be good, and definitely worth seeing (especially with Mutators and Shearing Pinx opening), but they were far, far better than that.
The Emergency Room was packed (if you were there on Halloween, it was almost like that), and the band came ready to throw down. If you've seen any promo photos of the foursome, you'd expect that they're well aware of how to make a spectacle out of something, but there was more to things than just some style over substance. Aurally, the performance was sort of like being assaulted for an hour... if being assaulted were one of the more enjoyable things that could ever happen to you. I've always been drawn more to guitar sounds than anything else when it comes to instrumentation, but Yannick's drumming was something fierce. Again, I like the recordings, but no matter how much I crank up my turntable/ipod, the studio versions can't touch the live experience. The crowd, who were amped and unruly seemed to agree, and Chloe spent most of the set "singing" amongst them.
Before the show started, I interviewed Chloe for ChalkedUp so look for that (and some proper photos from the shoot in the first picture) in the next little while.
Mutators (like JPNDRDS, Bison, the Clips, and a few others) have been talked up so much here that I probably can't say anything positive about them that I haven't already said. If you're reading this from the West Coast of the US, check out their tour dates though. They're coming to a town near you (with Shearing Pinx). Don't miss them.
Leif was sans oscillator belt, but her, Justin, and Brody had contact mics running through a bunch of amps/effects fill in in the gyrating noise department.
I was hanging back during Shearing Pinx, and didn't want to shove my way to the front (because I never like to shove my way to anywhere), but even though I couldn't see them, I could hear them, and what I heard was ace. I haven't seen them in months, and the last time I was nursing a nasty headache. As much as I like them, they didn't really help my headache (neither did the decision to drink a double Jameson's), so needless to say, Saturday was a much more pleasurable experience.
As per usual, Steve has some nice photos up.
Shout out to Kristin for bringing AIDS Wolf to town.
Mutators, Shearing Pinx, and Twin Crystals are at 340 on December 20th.
The day after that, my friend Neil is spinning at the Astoria. We're having a joint birthday party. 1981 was a good year... or maybe bad, depending on whether you like either of us.
Twin Crystals open for Glass Candy at 1/2 Alive on the 14th.
DJ Shadow and Cut Chemist are at the Commodore on February 11th.
Ministry are at the Commodore on March 28th. (thanks DB)
The Devlin & Darko (Spank Rock) DJ set is off tomorrow.
Edit: this is just do ridiculous not to post. Keep in mind that this idiot makes more money in a year than most of us will see in a decade (maybe two decades), and you can stop wondering why the (major) music industry is going down the tubes.
Labels: aids wolf, mutators, shearing pinx, show announcements, show recaps
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
rat face
The fact that I don't have a picture of Petroleum By-Products speaks to how much the crowd was feeling them at Shindig last night. The area in front of the stage was crammed about 5-minutes into their winning set.
If you haven't had a chance to see them, they're (roughly) the same age Be Your Own Pet, dress like the Polysics, and sound like the B-52s, and that ain't half bad. In fact, it's quite good.
They play Library Square (for Casbah!) with Culte du Cargo (whose record is sitting perpetually on top of my growing "must listen to" stack of CDs) and Stolen Bicycles Gang on November 30th and at Unicorn on December 14th with Hallmark and Ladies Night. I don't know the actual order for either of those shows... so just show up on time for once.
Japandroids played what was apparently the "latest set ever" at Shindig, which unfortunately resulted in half the room being cleared by the time they played. They're still one of the - or perhaps the - local act(s) that I most enjoy live, but there was a drunk girl in front of stage who was having a better time than anybody... maybe ever. They closed with a cover of my favourite Wire song.
Today a coworker of mine noted that he "enjoyed that middle band (Treacherous Machete) more this time, because that guy (Burnside) wasn't drunk - or so drunk, anyway." I suppose I would agree. Although, drunk or sober, the duo are more entertaining than when the same people say/write the same "Blues Hammer" joke about six times. I mean, don't get me wrong, I dig Ghostworld too, but at least throw in another racist joke or something (just kidding. I love you, Only).
Liam from No Gold was kind enough to email to let me know that they're playing Pat's on November 30th with Colorbook, Basketball (formerly Raking Bombs), who are playing their first show in ages, and International Falls (whose CD I also need to give some proper spins to). I'm moving the next morning, but I'm still going to try to check this out after Cadence Weapon.
I finally picked up a copy of the Mutators 7" that's out on the Broadway to Boundary (the fine gentleman who also brought you the Hot Loins 7"). If you've ever seen them play, then hearing me tell you that it slays will come as no surprise. Expect a "proper" (you know, as in, I expand that previous sentence with a bunch of descriptors and unrelated anecdotes you didn't need to know) review on Streethawk soon-ish (there's a White Lung one up right now - surprise: also slays). Each side of the 45 ends on a locked groove so the blissful noise goes forever and ever and ever and ever and ever and ever and yougetthepoint.
In case you forgot, they're playing on Saturday with AIDS Wolf and Shearing Pinx for an early show at the ER.
Twin Crystals are playing Fake Jazz tonight at the Cobalt, which is where I'm going right now...
now playing: Nurse & Solider - Satellightning (thanks Luke!)
Labels: (excessive use of brackets), japandroids, mutators, petroleum by-products, shindig, show announcements, show recaps, treacherous machete
Monday, October 29, 2007
ghouls night out
On Saturday, I attempted to catch both Paradise Island and Tara Jane O'Neil at the Secret Space, while bouncing next door to take in the Misfits cover night at the Emergency Room, but I managed to miss TJO when I got wrapped up in Nu Sensae/N213's joint set at the ER.
Paradise Island features Erase Errata's Jenny Hoyston, whose set was a mix of experimental, almost ambient noises and pretty standard guitar songs. It was sort of hit or miss, but it wasn't as if one of the aforementioned styles was entirely well executed and one wasn't. The highlight for me was when a bunch of sleigh bells and tambourines got distributed around the room and everything was bathed in a wash of jingling.
It was the first time I've been to the Secret Space as well. It's a fun little room. They also had a wicked pumpkin on display, that I clearly should have taken a picture of.
After Pardise Island's set, I made my way next door to the Emergency Room. The Nu Sensae/N213 set that distracted me from getting back to the Secret Space in time for Tara Jane O'Neil was pretty great. Actually, everything was pretty great, but the Mutators' set was awesome (shocking that I'd think that, I know). If you can't sing like Danzig (and how can?), you may as well sound like you're shredding your vocal chords.
There were plenty of great outfits on display, which of course included Misfits make-up and a more than a few Joey Only hairstyles (I know there's an actual name for that, but I don't know it).
I once again neglected to grab a Mutators 7" before they ran out/stopped selling them. The good news for me (and you) is that they're at Audiopile now and at Scratch later this week... or you can get one by mail from the Broadway to Boundary.
Lots of great local stuff going on this week, as you can see over in the sidebar.
Unfortunately, Taxes won't be playing Shindig this week, but A Relative Distance, who were supposed to play the week that Treacherous Machete won, are filling in. Somewhat Taxes related, Sean is doing Morning Brew again. Don't call it a comeback.
I got my hands on the new Clips record, Matterhorn. Full review will be up on Streethawk tonight/tomorrow morning (plus an interview), but in the meantime, I will say that my expectations have been satisfied (and they were pretty high). Grab your own copy on Thursday at the ANZA.
Labels: mutators, nu sensae, paradise island, show recaps, the clips
