Monday, February 08, 2010
long way home
It was my first time at the El Dorado since they started putting shows on. The stage is only about a foot off the ground (a la Pat's before they raised their's), but the sound was decent, and the beer special was cheap.
It was my first time checking out Black Wizard, who were already half way through some sweet stoner-metal jams when I showed up. By the end of their set I was sort of kicking myself for waltzing in late.
Daniel and Andrea were their usually wonderful selves: loud, fast, and heavy.
White Lung finished things off with a set of mostly new songs that are making me even more excited to hear their forthcoming debut long player. I was worried when they lost their guitarist, but after seeing them a couple of times with Kenny, it seems that everything sounds just fine.
Oh, and in case you haven't noticed, that "Olympics" thing starts on Friday. I was gong to get something together, but got too lazy to wade through the Cultural Olympiad website (for all that money, you think could design a better website). Don't fret though. The Straight's got a calendar of free shows and Discorder has their picks up (from free up to really expensive) in the latest issue, and I'm sure both of them do a better job than I would have. Let that be a lesson to you: if you procrastinate long enough, someone will do the job for you.
Regulars: February 8th-February 14th
Monday
Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: unknown
Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on February 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in March
Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: off until the Olympics are over
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act
Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back on the 19th
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on February 26th
Good Burger @ Goody: Gang Silence (Gang Violence still don't have a new singer, so they're playing instrumentally)
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back in March
Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Sun Wizard and Makeout Videotape
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Techromancer and the Zolas
Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act
now playing: Beach House - Take Care
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
double nelson or my face
I got there just in time to catch Womankind. They were noisy, with lots of low end (there were two bass players), and as Mark noted a few months back, people have made comparisons to the Jesus Lizard, which are pretty apt. I'm stoked to check them out again.
Robe & Allied closed out the live portion of the evening with their last show. Think of the same vein as Womankind, but with less going on (though, less is sometimes more). Glad I could catch them, though I'm sure the guys will have other ventures ready to go soon.
The DJ'd music, courtesy Tyler Fedchuk and Anne-Marie from White Lung, was an awesome mix that was mostly dominated by classic punk. There are tons of regular DJ/live music night combos right now, and after one visit, this one might be my favourite.
Last night, I made it down to the Cobalt for Boosh Tuesday, getting there just in time to catch the last bit of Juvenile Hall. They're three women who play no-nonsense, old school punk (think older Bratmobile with a little less Riot Grrl and a little more Ramones)
Nu Sensae were up next. I haven't seen Andrea and Daniel play in awhile, so it was even better than usual to catch their set.
White Lung closed things out. They're one of my favourite... I was going to say "local bands," but it's probably just favourite bands, period. At any rate, they killed it, as per usual.
Speaking of White Lung and Nu Sensae, they're playing the Biltmore on July 22nd, opening for Mika Miko.
This Friday, Bend Sinister and the Good News play a fundraiser for the forthcoming Olio Festival. Bronx Cheer and Man Hussy perform before the bands and the Glory Days DJs spin between sets.
The next night, Acts of Sedition, Hermetic, Staring Problem, and Dichotomy play an all-ager at the APC space (Main @ Pender).
Plus Perfect play the Met... I mean, Metropole, on May 17th with the City Streets, and Eamon McGrath.
Child Bite play the Cobalt on May 18th with Hard Feelings and Sick.
On May 19th, Needles & Pins play their first show at Boosh Tuesday at the Cobalt. It's also Boosh organizer, MJ's birthday and a by-donation fundraiser for Girls Rock Camp Vancouver, "a non-profit society that builds self esteem in female youth through music creation and performance."
Grouper plays an instore at Zulu on May 24th, ahead of her opening stint for Animal Collective that night.
South Rakkas Crew are at the Modern on May 29th.
Patrick Wolf is at Richard's on June 6th.
Crystal Antlers are at the Biltmore on June 15th.
Cut Off Your Hands are at the Media Club on June 22nd.
Major Lazer (aka Diplo and Switch) are at the Commodore on June 24th.
Bert Jansch is at Richard's on July 3rd.
Bonobo is at Richard's on July 20th.
And finally, the Mt. Eerie show scheduled for May 30th is now on June 5th, due to a scheduling mix-up. It's still at St. James Hall.
now playing: Tyrades - Incinerated
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
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)
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.
Monday, October 22, 2007
what do you think will happen next?
Saturday:
I certainly wish I had seen this before the Final Fantasy show on Saturday. It seems that the resident Vancouverites on the FF message board held it down though. Good call to whomever requested "the Sea" (which was played over a bed of very nice sounding feedback).
What can you really say about Owen Pallet's live show that hasn't been said by now? I'll spare you the fawning praise and just note that Richard's was more packed than I've ever seen it and he covered "An Actor's Revenge" (by Destroyer, as you probably know).
I quite like Great Lake Swimmers on record, but the similar sounding tunes at mercilessly similar tempos made for a somewhat boring (albeit rather pretty) opening set.
I was driving around trying to find a place to park for most of Basia Bulat's set (like, in pay lots and everything). My penance for not taking transit is that I heard her second last song while hastily relieving my bladder, and caught the last song from the floor, which sounded pretty good.
I think this is the first time that urination has made it into a show recap. Hurrah!
Ardenstreet on Flickr has photos. So does Steve. A commendable job by both, especially considering the lighting.
Friday:
I made it to the Emergency Room for the Modern Creatures 7" release. I'd actually only heard them via MySpace before, and the live version of the dueling basses/reverbed girl vocals combo that they spit out certainly didn't disappoint live.
I've actually seen Nu Sensae three times in the last month, but I think this is the first time that I've ever written anything about them, other than giving a nod to their Wire cover. Though they're less precise and more snarling than my favourite post-punkers, they share a no frills approach to things. Bass and drums tangle up with screaming vocals and there's lots of stops and starts, but they keep it pretty simple, which isn't always the worst idea. Like I mentioned, I've seen them almost once a week for the last month, and I'm excited to see them again, if that says anything.
I got to the ER in time to see A.R.C., who were Jesse from Channels 3+4/Shearing Pinx/Cheerleader Camp/etc on sax and another guy on drums. Not exactly my bag, but I couldn't find anything to complain about either.
Jesse also played DJ along with Justin from Mutators. The mix of soul, new wave, and Madonna made for a good counterpoint to the noisier live music.
Speaking of Mutators and Modern Creatures, they're playing together at the Balmoral on November 9th. Ghetto fab.
Everyone's favourite fake DJs, Sex Attack, will be pressing play on their laptop and rocking you harder than most guys who pack around two crates of vinyl at Frank's on Franklin on November 17th. If you're not mulling around in front of your computer and telling dudes off for pissing all over the sanctity of turntablism, go and get sweaty and have some fun.
If the new Wu-Tang gets bumped back again it'll come out on my birthday. Best present ever.
Rob outlines why our government is stupid (if you needed another reason).
long way home
I made it down to First Friday at the El Dorado to catch White Lung, Nu Sensae, and Black Wizard.
It was my first time at the El Dorado since they started putting shows on. The stage is only about a foot off the ground (a la Pat's before they raised their's), but the sound was decent, and the beer special was cheap.
It was my first time checking out Black Wizard, who were already half way through some sweet stoner-metal jams when I showed up. By the end of their set I was sort of kicking myself for waltzing in late.
Daniel and Andrea were their usually wonderful selves: loud, fast, and heavy.
White Lung finished things off with a set of mostly new songs that are making me even more excited to hear their forthcoming debut long player. I was worried when they lost their guitarist, but after seeing them a couple of times with Kenny, it seems that everything sounds just fine.
Oh, and in case you haven't noticed, that "Olympics" thing starts on Friday. I was gong to get something together, but got too lazy to wade through the Cultural Olympiad website (for all that money, you think could design a better website). Don't fret though. The Straight's got a calendar of free shows and Discorder has their picks up (from free up to really expensive) in the latest issue, and I'm sure both of them do a better job than I would have. Let that be a lesson to you: if you procrastinate long enough, someone will do the job for you.
Regulars: February 8th-February 14th
Monday
Tuesday
Sailing @ the Astoria: unknown
Wednesday
Rock N Roll Pizza Party @ the Biltmore: back on February 17th
Discorder Presents... @ the Astoria: back in March
Thursday
Honey Lung Thursday @ Honey: off until the Olympics are over
Blastramp @ the Bourbon: no live act
Friday
Damaged Goods @ the Astoria: back on the 19th
Deadbeatz @ Roy G. Biv: back on February 26th
Good Burger @ Goody: Gang Silence (Gang Violence still don't have a new singer, so they're playing instrumentally)
First Friday @ the El Dorado: back in March
Saturday
Glory Days @ the Biltmore: Sun Wizard and Makeout Videotape
Night Shift @ the Astoria: back later this month? Next month?
No More Strangers @ Funky Winkerbean's: Techromancer and the Zolas
Sunday
Dream Date @ the Astoria: no live act
now playing: Beach House - Take Care
Labels: black wizard, nu sensae, olympics, show recaps, weekly listings, white lung
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
double nelson or my face
On Saturday, I finally made it down to the Astoria for Night Shift. The "punk rock party" has been going on every second week since April (and it's now weekly), but this was my first visit. And it was a good one.
I got there just in time to catch Womankind. They were noisy, with lots of low end (there were two bass players), and as Mark noted a few months back, people have made comparisons to the Jesus Lizard, which are pretty apt. I'm stoked to check them out again.
Robe & Allied closed out the live portion of the evening with their last show. Think of the same vein as Womankind, but with less going on (though, less is sometimes more). Glad I could catch them, though I'm sure the guys will have other ventures ready to go soon.
The DJ'd music, courtesy Tyler Fedchuk and Anne-Marie from White Lung, was an awesome mix that was mostly dominated by classic punk. There are tons of regular DJ/live music night combos right now, and after one visit, this one might be my favourite.
Last night, I made it down to the Cobalt for Boosh Tuesday, getting there just in time to catch the last bit of Juvenile Hall. They're three women who play no-nonsense, old school punk (think older Bratmobile with a little less Riot Grrl and a little more Ramones)
Nu Sensae were up next. I haven't seen Andrea and Daniel play in awhile, so it was even better than usual to catch their set.
White Lung closed things out. They're one of my favourite... I was going to say "local bands," but it's probably just favourite bands, period. At any rate, they killed it, as per usual.
Speaking of White Lung and Nu Sensae, they're playing the Biltmore on July 22nd, opening for Mika Miko.
This Friday, Bend Sinister and the Good News play a fundraiser for the forthcoming Olio Festival. Bronx Cheer and Man Hussy perform before the bands and the Glory Days DJs spin between sets.
The next night, Acts of Sedition, Hermetic, Staring Problem, and Dichotomy play an all-ager at the APC space (Main @ Pender).
Plus Perfect play the Met... I mean, Metropole, on May 17th with the City Streets, and Eamon McGrath.
Child Bite play the Cobalt on May 18th with Hard Feelings and Sick.
On May 19th, Needles & Pins play their first show at Boosh Tuesday at the Cobalt. It's also Boosh organizer, MJ's birthday and a by-donation fundraiser for Girls Rock Camp Vancouver, "a non-profit society that builds self esteem in female youth through music creation and performance."
Grouper plays an instore at Zulu on May 24th, ahead of her opening stint for Animal Collective that night.
South Rakkas Crew are at the Modern on May 29th.
Patrick Wolf is at Richard's on June 6th.
Crystal Antlers are at the Biltmore on June 15th.
Cut Off Your Hands are at the Media Club on June 22nd.
Major Lazer (aka Diplo and Switch) are at the Commodore on June 24th.
Bert Jansch is at Richard's on July 3rd.
Bonobo is at Richard's on July 20th.
And finally, the Mt. Eerie show scheduled for May 30th is now on June 5th, due to a scheduling mix-up. It's still at St. James Hall.
now playing: Tyrades - Incinerated
Labels: juvenile hall, nu sensae, robe and allied, show announcements, show recaps, white lung, womankind
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
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
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
Monday, October 22, 2007
what do you think will happen next?
Post-weekend update...
Saturday:
I certainly wish I had seen this before the Final Fantasy show on Saturday. It seems that the resident Vancouverites on the FF message board held it down though. Good call to whomever requested "the Sea" (which was played over a bed of very nice sounding feedback).
What can you really say about Owen Pallet's live show that hasn't been said by now? I'll spare you the fawning praise and just note that Richard's was more packed than I've ever seen it and he covered "An Actor's Revenge" (by Destroyer, as you probably know).
I quite like Great Lake Swimmers on record, but the similar sounding tunes at mercilessly similar tempos made for a somewhat boring (albeit rather pretty) opening set.
I was driving around trying to find a place to park for most of Basia Bulat's set (like, in pay lots and everything). My penance for not taking transit is that I heard her second last song while hastily relieving my bladder, and caught the last song from the floor, which sounded pretty good.
I think this is the first time that urination has made it into a show recap. Hurrah!
Ardenstreet on Flickr has photos. So does Steve. A commendable job by both, especially considering the lighting.
Friday:
I made it to the Emergency Room for the Modern Creatures 7" release. I'd actually only heard them via MySpace before, and the live version of the dueling basses/reverbed girl vocals combo that they spit out certainly didn't disappoint live.
I've actually seen Nu Sensae three times in the last month, but I think this is the first time that I've ever written anything about them, other than giving a nod to their Wire cover. Though they're less precise and more snarling than my favourite post-punkers, they share a no frills approach to things. Bass and drums tangle up with screaming vocals and there's lots of stops and starts, but they keep it pretty simple, which isn't always the worst idea. Like I mentioned, I've seen them almost once a week for the last month, and I'm excited to see them again, if that says anything.
I got to the ER in time to see A.R.C., who were Jesse from Channels 3+4/Shearing Pinx/Cheerleader Camp/etc on sax and another guy on drums. Not exactly my bag, but I couldn't find anything to complain about either.
Jesse also played DJ along with Justin from Mutators. The mix of soul, new wave, and Madonna made for a good counterpoint to the noisier live music.
Speaking of Mutators and Modern Creatures, they're playing together at the Balmoral on November 9th. Ghetto fab.
Everyone's favourite fake DJs, Sex Attack, will be pressing play on their laptop and rocking you harder than most guys who pack around two crates of vinyl at Frank's on Franklin on November 17th. If you're not mulling around in front of your computer and telling dudes off for pissing all over the sanctity of turntablism, go and get sweaty and have some fun.
If the new Wu-Tang gets bumped back again it'll come out on my birthday. Best present ever.
Rob outlines why our government is stupid (if you needed another reason).
Labels: a.r.c., basia bulat, final fantasy, great lake swimmers, modern creatures, nu sensae, show announcements, show recaps
