Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Maggie MacDonald
One of the problems with the arts in Canada in general is the lack of publicity. Frequently when things are done by Canadian artists you won't find it, or even find out it exists, unless you look for it. Especially with independent and emerging artists, there are no front page headlines, no advance publicity to speak of, only a few buried reviews at best. That is part of the reason, after all, this site exists. That, I'm afraid, is my only excuse for not reading 'Kill the Robot' earlier. For a long time I simply didn't know about it, and once I did, it took me awhile to actually find a copy. There are some decent reviews of it here and here. I found though, perhaps because I'm part of the choir and no longer need to be preached to, that it wasn't the semi-Orwellian themes, or the "rallying cry against consumerism" that appealed to me most. It was the stunning use of language and deeply honest insights. Whether or not you agree with the politics of the book, you will find much of the imagery and emotional exploration deeply familiar (at least if you have 'come of age' in the last three decades. In short, read this book.
As an author, award winning playwright, artist and member of the Hidden Cameras and Republic of Safety, Maggie MacDonald is truly one of the great emerging talents in Canada. The blog for The Rat King Rock Opera can now be found in the Canblogs.
Monday, July 30, 2007
Exposure Premieres
It's about time for a program like Exposure. Actually, it's about time for a program like Zed, but if we can't have that then Exposure and R3TV would be nice.
Exposure is, for anyone who doesn't know yet, a program that invites filmmakers to upload short films and the audience to "Watch, rate, and leave comments. Help determine what videos make it onto CBC Television's Exposure." The ultimate winner of the series will get a 25 thousand dollar online content development deal from the CBC and Yahoo Canada.
Last night's long awaited premiere was exciting, and many of the shorts featured showed real promise. I would, however, make one suggestion: Please take it easy with the 'interesting' camera angles and effects. It's ok in small does but it's not at all necessary and I found it a little distracting. Ultimately it was the shorts I tuned in to see, and not the hosts.
Anyway, here's a small sample for anyone who missed it. "A short film about a man coping with the imminent loss of his hearing. Utilizes a bit of animation. Original Music by the Writer/Director Damian Weston. Budget: $200"
Exposure is, for anyone who doesn't know yet, a program that invites filmmakers to upload short films and the audience to "Watch, rate, and leave comments. Help determine what videos make it onto CBC Television's Exposure." The ultimate winner of the series will get a 25 thousand dollar online content development deal from the CBC and Yahoo Canada.
Last night's long awaited premiere was exciting, and many of the shorts featured showed real promise. I would, however, make one suggestion: Please take it easy with the 'interesting' camera angles and effects. It's ok in small does but it's not at all necessary and I found it a little distracting. Ultimately it was the shorts I tuned in to see, and not the hosts.
Anyway, here's a small sample for anyone who missed it. "A short film about a man coping with the imminent loss of his hearing. Utilizes a bit of animation. Original Music by the Writer/Director Damian Weston. Budget: $200"
Galacticast Returns
Rudy Jahchan and Casey McKinnon have been away from Galacticast for a bit, primarily doing A Comic Book Orange, but on August 6 they'll be back with Season 2 of Galacticast.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Quality Cruisin'
During a brief hiatus from a frantic lifestyle (all of about 3 hours), my fiance and I cruised Edmonton in the convertible, stereo pounding, and both lamenting the passing of stellar, flawless musicianship. While everyone else was shoving the latest commercial garbage through their woofers, we were enjoying the strains of the Brian Setzer Orchestra and the Cherry Poppin' Daddies. Yes, swing, rockabilly. For those of you too young to know what I'm talking about, you should put down the rap long enough to check them out.
Will this kind of music ever truly make a comeback? The type of music that sells itself just by virtue of the abilities of the band members? Sadly, it seems that silicone and soft porn is what sells records these days, not genius. Half-baked lyrics, suggestive gyrations, and barely adequate instrumentation.
The way I see it, Top 40 music is like junk food; it's okay in small doses but you need to balance it with healthier listening, music that your mind can truly appreciate. Leave the T & A in Playboy where it belongs, and let's get back to what it's really all about...the music.
~Arlie
Will this kind of music ever truly make a comeback? The type of music that sells itself just by virtue of the abilities of the band members? Sadly, it seems that silicone and soft porn is what sells records these days, not genius. Half-baked lyrics, suggestive gyrations, and barely adequate instrumentation.
The way I see it, Top 40 music is like junk food; it's okay in small doses but you need to balance it with healthier listening, music that your mind can truly appreciate. Leave the T & A in Playboy where it belongs, and let's get back to what it's really all about...the music.
~Arlie
Friday, July 27, 2007
rvt: Russian Futurists - Telegram From the Future
Set to a 1956 design promotion film, more info on Russian Futurists a band that poses a clear and present danger to US National Security can be found on their homepage.
Vague Terrain
According to it's description
"Vague Terrain is a web based quarterly publication showcasing work from various Canadian and International artists, musicians, and writers. The quarterly samples the focus and methodologies of academic and art journals, and examines contemporary issues in an immediate and accessible manner that reflects the nature of the web. Content consists of curated visual, audio, and written works.Vague Terrain has been added to the links section of the site in several places as well as the links on the front page. However, if you'd like to skip stumbling upon it in the links section, you can find it Vague Terrain. There is also a Facebook Group, a mailing list and information on their next event can be found here.
This group is dedicated to promoting discourse surrounding the journal as well as the activities of the artists and community contributing to it."
Thursday, July 26, 2007
U.S. Record Labels are fighting diversity, not piracy
Michael Geist had an interesting post yesterday. In it he discusses research which suggests the real reasons behind the big U.S. record labels attack on internet radio. As usual, it is not about theft, or 'the artists getting paid'. The big US record labels don't care about such things and never have.
The big record labels are dinosaurs fighting to have mammals banned by law. Internet radio offers diversity: according to the research "55 percent of music played on webcasting stations comes from independent artists, a significant variation from the CD and commercial radio market where the major labels control an overwhelming percentage of the market." The big labels care about controlling what you listen to, in the hope of controlling what you buy.
Should such a thing come to Canada it would be even worse, again from the post mentioned above "given that independent labels are responsible for nearly 90 percent of new Canadian music". It should be pointed out that so far Canadian labels have been better than those in the US. Still, for those of you who care about music, I'd urge you to stick to buy Canadian and when and where possible to buy from the band itself - either directly, or through whatever method they recommend on their website. iTunes generally doesn't pay artists very well either. For every 99 cent song you download the artist who recorded it may see as little as 4.5 cents. Recording artists will generally know which method works best for them and will (hopefully) tell you about it on their respective sites.
The big record labels are dinosaurs fighting to have mammals banned by law. Internet radio offers diversity: according to the research "55 percent of music played on webcasting stations comes from independent artists, a significant variation from the CD and commercial radio market where the major labels control an overwhelming percentage of the market." The big labels care about controlling what you listen to, in the hope of controlling what you buy.
Should such a thing come to Canada it would be even worse, again from the post mentioned above "given that independent labels are responsible for nearly 90 percent of new Canadian music". It should be pointed out that so far Canadian labels have been better than those in the US. Still, for those of you who care about music, I'd urge you to stick to buy Canadian and when and where possible to buy from the band itself - either directly, or through whatever method they recommend on their website. iTunes generally doesn't pay artists very well either. For every 99 cent song you download the artist who recorded it may see as little as 4.5 cents. Recording artists will generally know which method works best for them and will (hopefully) tell you about it on their respective sites.
Vancouver Fringe Festival Seeking Actor for 'Hands Down'
Just passing this along. Please give it a read and pass it on if you know someone who might be interested:"We are casting a role for 'Hands Down,' a play about a couple who enter the world of professional Rock Paper Scissors players and, naturally, learn something about themselves. We're looking for men, 25-40, to play Felix, a vaguely european "Master" of RPS. This is a broad character; we're looking for someone with a background in improv, or with good comedy chops to bring him to life.
The show runs the 6th to 16th of September, and will be a box office split. Auditions will be held on Saturday, July 28th from 11-3pm in Carousel Theatre's small studio, 1411 Cartwright Street on Granville Island. Please send your info (picture and resume) to me at danibryant@hotmail.com for the sides and to book an audition time. If you know someone who might fit the part, forward the notice to them."
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
New R3TV Video
This was made with only Quicktime Pro and Photoshop - limited mixing capabilities, but I think the message is there, even if the sound could be better.
Monthly Mess in Montreal
If you live in Montreal and don't know about Indyish yet, then congratulations on coming out of your coma, glad you're feeling better.
Indyish's Monthly Mess V is Tomorrow night at the Main Hall, 5390 St-Laurent in Montreal. The mess will feature, amoung other things
Music by The Subcollisions
Read an interview with a few of The Subcollisions by euphoreador
Music by The Darling DeMaes
Read an interview of Erik Virtanen of The Darling DeMaes by euphoreador We have the Tribal Ethereal dance troupe
The erotic readings of Laura Roberts, the editor of Black Heart Magazine
The painter that will be painting the event and inviting all to help him out and paint with him, Cristian S. Alaus, he also has a short film to contribute
The Comedy of John McNeish-Hastings
We have multiple short films as well by,
Raimundo Morte
Howard Siroky
Go here for more details.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
FOOTBALL AND FUNDRAISING
This Thursday, watch the Argos challenge the Montreal Alouettes, while supporting a great cause.
The Toronto Argonauts and The Centre for Dreams are partnering up for an exciting fundraising event on Thursday July 26th, 2007. For every ticket that is sold, $5.00 will go towards the centre and helping them continue running their educational programs and life skills training.
The Centre for Dreams is a day program for adults living with a developmental challenge and it is their mission to help these individuals continue to live a meaningful and fulfilling life that they otherwise would probably not have. After the age of 21, there is no longer any education provided from the public school system and they virtually have nothing left to do. It is important that we do not forget these very special individuals as they deserve just as much as anyone else, the same respect and opportunities in life.
With that said, listed below are some incentives you can get or help The Centre for Dreams receive with your support:
The Centre for Dreams Group Incentives:
* 0-90 Tickets: Ticket Upgrade for 4
* 100-199: Autographed Merchandise
* 200-399: Player/Cheerleader to attend a DREAMS event
* 400-499: Participation in Fan Tunnel
* 500-699: Field Passes
* 700-949: Video Board Spot
* 1000: Cheque Presentation on field pre-game
This is a great event to gather a group of your friends together, hang out and enjoy this amazing summer weather – all for a great cause. In order to receive the discounted prices on tickets, a form must be filled in and faxed. If you would like more information about the game and ordering tickets or about The Centre for Dreams, feel free to visit their website at www.dreamsinc.ca or contact Michelle directly 905.209.9092.
On behalf of CHEV Radio, thank you for supporting The Centre for Dreams!
The Toronto Argonauts and The Centre for Dreams are partnering up for an exciting fundraising event on Thursday July 26th, 2007. For every ticket that is sold, $5.00 will go towards the centre and helping them continue running their educational programs and life skills training.
The Centre for Dreams is a day program for adults living with a developmental challenge and it is their mission to help these individuals continue to live a meaningful and fulfilling life that they otherwise would probably not have. After the age of 21, there is no longer any education provided from the public school system and they virtually have nothing left to do. It is important that we do not forget these very special individuals as they deserve just as much as anyone else, the same respect and opportunities in life.
With that said, listed below are some incentives you can get or help The Centre for Dreams receive with your support:
The Centre for Dreams Group Incentives:
* 0-90 Tickets: Ticket Upgrade for 4
* 100-199: Autographed Merchandise
* 200-399: Player/Cheerleader to attend a DREAMS event
* 400-499: Participation in Fan Tunnel
* 500-699: Field Passes
* 700-949: Video Board Spot
* 1000: Cheque Presentation on field pre-game
This is a great event to gather a group of your friends together, hang out and enjoy this amazing summer weather – all for a great cause. In order to receive the discounted prices on tickets, a form must be filled in and faxed. If you would like more information about the game and ordering tickets or about The Centre for Dreams, feel free to visit their website at www.dreamsinc.ca or contact Michelle directly 905.209.9092.
| Date: | Thursday, July 26, 2007 |
| Time: | 7:00pm - 10:30pm |
| Location: | The Rogers Center |
| Street: | 1 Blue Jays Way |
| City/Town: | Toronto, ON |
On behalf of CHEV Radio, thank you for supporting The Centre for Dreams!
RVT: Away From Her
The trailer for another highly anticipated film showing at this year's T.I.F.F.. Sarah Polley's Away From Her, You can also watch Polley introducing the film in Berlin here.
the T.I.F.F.: Now with extra maple syrup
The T.I.F.F., or at least the coverage of it, is generally dominated by stories about visiting international celebrities. The films themselves are largely ignored by Canadian media in favour of stories about who showed up, where Tom & Katie went to dinner, which Hollywood starlets were sighted at which Queen West boutiques. Any coverage of the films themselves is usually reserved for potential Hollywood blockbusters with mega-stars walking the red carpet to the premiere. This is not arts reporting, it really has nothing to do with the festival, or with film. It is trivia and sensationalism.
Actors, regardless of their fame, are just people. People with jobs and families and sometimes overblown egos caused by front page headlines over their slightest movement. Or, in the case of Canadian actors, frequently people who (regardless of talent) serve the Hollywood stars at the restaurant or drive their limo to the Gala as a way of funding their acting habbit. As someone who doesn't care the least about the dining habits, or relationship foibles, of this year's "It girl" (or boy) - I'm delighted to see that Canadian films are at least getting an increased presence at the T.I.F.F.
Canadian Film has been on a roll of late, and it's good to see that reflected at the festival. Should anyone have commentary, leading up to, during or after the TIFF about any of the Canadian films, I'd be delighted to post your thoughts in this blog.
And, as I said last week - do not miss the Tracy Fragments. If at all possible see it on a big screen.
Actors, regardless of their fame, are just people. People with jobs and families and sometimes overblown egos caused by front page headlines over their slightest movement. Or, in the case of Canadian actors, frequently people who (regardless of talent) serve the Hollywood stars at the restaurant or drive their limo to the Gala as a way of funding their acting habbit. As someone who doesn't care the least about the dining habits, or relationship foibles, of this year's "It girl" (or boy) - I'm delighted to see that Canadian films are at least getting an increased presence at the T.I.F.F.
Canadian Film has been on a roll of late, and it's good to see that reflected at the festival. Should anyone have commentary, leading up to, during or after the TIFF about any of the Canadian films, I'd be delighted to post your thoughts in this blog.
And, as I said last week - do not miss the Tracy Fragments. If at all possible see it on a big screen.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
On Now Magazine's Polaris Whining
Yesterday, Cody posted a link to Now Magazine's rebuke of this year's Polaris Music Prize list.
Yesterday my only comment was "One of the problems with such awards is that there will never be agreement on who should win, or who should be nominated, but I can't think of a better way to do it than having the nation's music critics vote." Which I still stand by. I've also said that one of the problems with any arts awards is that it blurs the line between competitive sports and art, which I also still stand by.
The point I think, if there is one, to something like Polaris is the exposure gained by artists by being nominated. I'm sure the 20k comes in handy but winning doesn't guarantee you much. Yes Owen Pallett (a.k.a. Final Fantasy) has enjoyed increased success for the last year. But how much of that is due to the Polaris prize is debatable.
Anyway, all of this and Now Magazine's bit on it have been running around my brain for about 24 hours now and I think I've finally figured out why. The whole tone of Now's piece is a bit whiny and disingenuous. Tim Perlich who wrote the Now article is on the Polaris jury so writing an article about who should have been on the list sounds an awful lot like whining about why the other jurors didn't agree with your picks. For example, if a Polaris juror were to say "They can start by replacing the current voters with people who listen to more than quirky pop made by middle-class nerds who sing in English and have a national distribution deal." My first guess would be that there are some sour grapes involved. Not to mention the fact that "middle class nerds who sing" or at least speak "in English" are the bread and butter of Now's readership.
Perhaps if he is that bitter about it Perlich himself should step down from the Polaris jury and simply content himself with all the Awards that Now seems to hand out like candy canes at a Christmas parade.
Yesterday my only comment was "One of the problems with such awards is that there will never be agreement on who should win, or who should be nominated, but I can't think of a better way to do it than having the nation's music critics vote." Which I still stand by. I've also said that one of the problems with any arts awards is that it blurs the line between competitive sports and art, which I also still stand by.
The point I think, if there is one, to something like Polaris is the exposure gained by artists by being nominated. I'm sure the 20k comes in handy but winning doesn't guarantee you much. Yes Owen Pallett (a.k.a. Final Fantasy) has enjoyed increased success for the last year. But how much of that is due to the Polaris prize is debatable.
Anyway, all of this and Now Magazine's bit on it have been running around my brain for about 24 hours now and I think I've finally figured out why. The whole tone of Now's piece is a bit whiny and disingenuous. Tim Perlich who wrote the Now article is on the Polaris jury so writing an article about who should have been on the list sounds an awful lot like whining about why the other jurors didn't agree with your picks. For example, if a Polaris juror were to say "They can start by replacing the current voters with people who listen to more than quirky pop made by middle-class nerds who sing in English and have a national distribution deal." My first guess would be that there are some sour grapes involved. Not to mention the fact that "middle class nerds who sing" or at least speak "in English" are the bread and butter of Now's readership.
Perhaps if he is that bitter about it Perlich himself should step down from the Polaris jury and simply content himself with all the Awards that Now seems to hand out like candy canes at a Christmas parade.
Friday, July 20, 2007
RVT: Slushpile
From CBC's Zed, the first known example of blogging on television. Though Zed met an untimely demize when it was decided last year that Online communities built around user generated content had no future you can still find Slushpile here and in the CanBlogs.
NOW Blasts Polaris Nominations
I know, I know, I'll write about something else someday, but I have to share NOW's take on the Polaris nominations.
http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2007-07-19/music_feature4.php
Some very valid points are brought up, especially about the lack of diversity. They even offer anti-Polaris nominations such as Alexisonfire, K-os and You Say Party! We Say Die!
However, they forgot Laura Peek and the Winning Hearts....
http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2007-07-19/music_feature4.php
Some very valid points are brought up, especially about the lack of diversity. They even offer anti-Polaris nominations such as Alexisonfire, K-os and You Say Party! We Say Die!
However, they forgot Laura Peek and the Winning Hearts....
Until next time,
Cody
the Parkdale Revolutionary Orchestra
In 1977 playing punk rock in a small bar was pretty punk rock. In 2007 nothing could be much more punk rock than playing classical music in a small bar (especially if you add in classical reworkings of Brian Eno.) So, I've added the Parkdale Revolutionary Orchestra to the band blogs. For those of you who haven't heard of the Parkdale Revolutionary Orchestra (and I hadn't until recently, though they are right down the road from me) I'll start with a quote from the June, 2007 issue of Exclaim Magazine.
"Take new music opera, reduce the instrumentation to a manageable and mobile six-piece group and play bars, not stuffy, self-important venues for the self-appointed intelligentsia, and you've got a handle on the 'revolutionary' part of the Parkdale Revolutionary Orchestra. Founded in 2006 by composer/lyricist Benjamin Mueller-Heaslip, the group has two strings, soprano saxophone, drums and bass, and soprano vocalist Kristin Mueller-Heaslip.
The eponymously-titled EP features 4 representative pieces from the ensemble's considerable repertoire. The first song, "Imposter", based on lyrics by darkster Karl Mohr, features a melodic line passionately delivered by Kristin over Reich/Glass-like ostinato string lines. Soprano saxophonist Jennifer Wardle's crystal clear tone imbues "Recurrents" with a glistening sheen as string lines form a tapestry of shimmering patterns.
In a musical genre known for feeding from government grant troughs, the Parkdale Revolutionary Orchestra is making a bold and courageous statement by bypassing established outlets and playing for audiences where they go to have fun and a little adventure. What a concept!"
But, that's not all. As the picture above shows, they have been known to perform with aerialists (Camille Greenstein in this case) and are currently looking for a few good poets.
So, now that you're all fascinated and impressed you can hear some samples on P.R.O.'s Myspace or their home page.
Mutant Babies Need Love Too!!!
So it was awhile ago now that I read an interview with a rather brilliant musician in which they adamantly described their last album as "shitty"! For some reason I felt quite ridiculously saddened by this and all those songs off the album that previously made me feel good & strong & inspired now kinda hurt me. errr... yes, how overly sensitive of me!
And maybe it was all the recent fame/acclaim that caused those comments or maybe all artists just really love & hate their own work at the same time. Who knows? Regardless, it's fair enough, even if I completely disagree with the opinion. Every artist has a right to trash their own art. I remember when I was attending a friend's poetry night that one of his rules was you couldn't diss or make excuses for your poem before you read it out. This was surprizingly difficult but actually I appreciated it & the poems were left to stand on their own merit rather than any preconceived ideas.
Art, whatever its form, becomes like our children, or in some of our cases, sadly unloved mutant babies!! Every piece of art I produce, whether it's completely beautiful (rarely!) or hideously awkward (ummm, yes, not so rare...) comes from my flesh & blood. It's born of me, shares some of my traits, good & bad, & has some characteristics that seem uniquely its own. Occasionally these gargoyle infants are so embarrassing that I have to hide them from public view. I don't often have the heart to completely destroy them.
Case in point: I had a vision of two angels, like slashes of light in darkness, with their arced backs & wings to each other. It was amazingly fun to paint, lots of pallet knife swooshing. While it was drying & approaching completion I had it on display in my livingroom, which is where I work. A friend mentioned that it really resembled a giant vagina. WHAT!!??!! My spiritually divine painting looked like a giant pussy? Well, whatever. Men. I know what they think about. Next, a girlfriend of mine also said she thought it was a large, beautiful vagina. Oh God! I mean, I'm no Georgia O'Keeffe, maybe I subconsciously painted that, but to be honest, I think all angels are hot boys. I'm sure it says so in the Bible. Needless to say, I could never look at that painting in the same way again. It's tainted. Poor unloved baby sullenly gathering dust in my sewing room, you shall never see the light of day. I can't kill it & I can't fix it.
Further humiliation has occurred at poetry night when I've read a poem still raw & dripping blood to a deafening silence that lasts what seems like forever after I'm done. Usually afterwards someone has something constructive to say, or a question, hey, how about anything! Sometimes, well... lots I guess, I abandon any attempt to be erudite for words that stink & stab, harsh truth told boldly, LOUDLY!! I can't really be ashamed of these poems or drawings, even though they inadequately represent what I can create when I try. In a way, I love them more because they're uncomfortable bits of me that I've managed to dislodge.
The only art I've created that I actually despise didn't come from my heart/gut. Any time I have tried to create something that's deliberately just for pleasing others or forced in some way, I don't hesitate to rip it up and throw it in the garbage. If it's truth, then it's really you, no matter how bad or foolish it sounds/looks, it's worth keeping & defending because it's something real in this often surreally vapid society. Not all art is meant for sharing with everyone, or anyone. I think what really matters in the end is that your art contains yourself revealed in some way = truth, anything else is just a pretty but disposable background, or possibly shitty!!!
did I go off topic? Yes did I have a topic? Several actually! will I rant about this again? Undoubtedly!
And maybe it was all the recent fame/acclaim that caused those comments or maybe all artists just really love & hate their own work at the same time. Who knows? Regardless, it's fair enough, even if I completely disagree with the opinion. Every artist has a right to trash their own art. I remember when I was attending a friend's poetry night that one of his rules was you couldn't diss or make excuses for your poem before you read it out. This was surprizingly difficult but actually I appreciated it & the poems were left to stand on their own merit rather than any preconceived ideas.
Art, whatever its form, becomes like our children, or in some of our cases, sadly unloved mutant babies!! Every piece of art I produce, whether it's completely beautiful (rarely!) or hideously awkward (ummm, yes, not so rare...) comes from my flesh & blood. It's born of me, shares some of my traits, good & bad, & has some characteristics that seem uniquely its own. Occasionally these gargoyle infants are so embarrassing that I have to hide them from public view. I don't often have the heart to completely destroy them.
Case in point: I had a vision of two angels, like slashes of light in darkness, with their arced backs & wings to each other. It was amazingly fun to paint, lots of pallet knife swooshing. While it was drying & approaching completion I had it on display in my livingroom, which is where I work. A friend mentioned that it really resembled a giant vagina. WHAT!!??!! My spiritually divine painting looked like a giant pussy? Well, whatever. Men. I know what they think about. Next, a girlfriend of mine also said she thought it was a large, beautiful vagina. Oh God! I mean, I'm no Georgia O'Keeffe, maybe I subconsciously painted that, but to be honest, I think all angels are hot boys. I'm sure it says so in the Bible. Needless to say, I could never look at that painting in the same way again. It's tainted. Poor unloved baby sullenly gathering dust in my sewing room, you shall never see the light of day. I can't kill it & I can't fix it.
Further humiliation has occurred at poetry night when I've read a poem still raw & dripping blood to a deafening silence that lasts what seems like forever after I'm done. Usually afterwards someone has something constructive to say, or a question, hey, how about anything! Sometimes, well... lots I guess, I abandon any attempt to be erudite for words that stink & stab, harsh truth told boldly, LOUDLY!! I can't really be ashamed of these poems or drawings, even though they inadequately represent what I can create when I try. In a way, I love them more because they're uncomfortable bits of me that I've managed to dislodge.
The only art I've created that I actually despise didn't come from my heart/gut. Any time I have tried to create something that's deliberately just for pleasing others or forced in some way, I don't hesitate to rip it up and throw it in the garbage. If it's truth, then it's really you, no matter how bad or foolish it sounds/looks, it's worth keeping & defending because it's something real in this often surreally vapid society. Not all art is meant for sharing with everyone, or anyone. I think what really matters in the end is that your art contains yourself revealed in some way = truth, anything else is just a pretty but disposable background, or possibly shitty!!!
did I go off topic? Yes did I have a topic? Several actually! will I rant about this again? Undoubtedly!
Thursday, July 19, 2007
RVT: Hidden Cameras @ Hillside
With Guelphs Hillside Festival fast approaching here are the Hidden Cameras doing "Smells Like Happiness" at the 06 fest.
Thanks for inviting me to your Riot!
Many thanks to Katharine Wilson and all the good folks at Blink Pictures for inviting me down to the El Mocambo last night. I got to be an extra (read 'prop that takes direction') for the Stars 'Take Me to the Riot and despite all the hurry up and wait, it was alot of fun and some great people. This, by the way, marks my first and very possibly last music video. P.S. Buy the new stars album, before it comes out.
Radio 3: Communication By Talking to People
Paul Gorbould posted a note today on Inside the CBC wondering why the CBC's online promotion efforts, generally, have been less enthusiastically received than the unofficial CBC related groups. This comes hard on the heals of Tea Makers post about CBC blog hits and misses.
One of the reasons that I'm so fond of Radio 3 despite not owning at satellite radio, is because Radio 3 practices something I've been preaching for years - communication by talking to people. This, to most communications people I've talked to (not just CBC people) is too alien to be understood. It goes something like this - you start a conversation, other people join in the conversation, and then you continue to participate in the conversation. It's the difference between talking to people and broadcasting (or talking at) people.
Zed did an exceptionally good job of this - building a large online community around user generated content long before those words meant anything to most people. But about the time MySpace was building up speed the CBC castrated Zed and then, just about the time YouTube took off, the CBC killed Zed. Radio 3 though has followed in Zed's footsteps admirably.
Radio 3 through their Blog, Facebook Group and on air is building a community. Many of the people at R3 are active participants in an ongoing discussion, along with musicians and fans, about music. Think of it as a 24 hour phone-in show, without call screeners or tape delay. True, occasionally people will be rude and you'll have to cut them off, but they won't hurt you. R3 listeners (however they listen) feel like participants rather than spectators and that is how you build an audience for the million channel universe. It is the difference between friends and fans.
Fans may like a program, channel etc., but ultimately they know that if they switch the channel no one will know, or really care. Friends feel more of a sense of ownership. They feel some responsibility for the well being of the program and they feel that they are participants and part of a larger community - that their involvement and participation are important. Notice the groups I started on MySpace, Facebook etc., are called 'Friends of the CBC'.
This is what seems to be lacking in the CBC's communications and publicity efforts. Outside of Zed (R.I.P.) and Radio 3 - this is not something the CBC seems to do very actively. But, Radio 3 is not doing anything that can't be done. They found a topic that a certain segment of the population care about, independent music, found a staff that cares just as much about independent music and started a conversation. This could just as easily be done around film, literature, other forms of music, business, politics, current events, cooking, travel, parenting ......
True, some of it is generational but only to an extent. When people say 'our demographic is older' the programming they produce seems to target an audience that doesn't even exist anymore. The 'older' audience is not the same 'older' audience that existed in 1970. Even many of todays seniors grew up on Rock and Roll, the Woodstock generation is getting ready to retire and even the 'Independent Music' that is Radio 3's specialty has it's roots in the 1960s, not the 1990s - many of the early indie rock fans are now contemplating retirement. Some are already there.
If the CBC truly wants to compete for viewers, it needs to focus on tearing down barriers between producers and viewers , on talking to people and not just at them, and on building communities for the long term rather than being satisfied with short term ratings numbers. In the mean time, put radio 3 on television and learn from them.
One of the reasons that I'm so fond of Radio 3 despite not owning at satellite radio, is because Radio 3 practices something I've been preaching for years - communication by talking to people. This, to most communications people I've talked to (not just CBC people) is too alien to be understood. It goes something like this - you start a conversation, other people join in the conversation, and then you continue to participate in the conversation. It's the difference between talking to people and broadcasting (or talking at) people.
Zed did an exceptionally good job of this - building a large online community around user generated content long before those words meant anything to most people. But about the time MySpace was building up speed the CBC castrated Zed and then, just about the time YouTube took off, the CBC killed Zed. Radio 3 though has followed in Zed's footsteps admirably.
Radio 3 through their Blog, Facebook Group and on air is building a community. Many of the people at R3 are active participants in an ongoing discussion, along with musicians and fans, about music. Think of it as a 24 hour phone-in show, without call screeners or tape delay. True, occasionally people will be rude and you'll have to cut them off, but they won't hurt you. R3 listeners (however they listen) feel like participants rather than spectators and that is how you build an audience for the million channel universe. It is the difference between friends and fans.
Fans may like a program, channel etc., but ultimately they know that if they switch the channel no one will know, or really care. Friends feel more of a sense of ownership. They feel some responsibility for the well being of the program and they feel that they are participants and part of a larger community - that their involvement and participation are important. Notice the groups I started on MySpace, Facebook etc., are called 'Friends of the CBC'.
This is what seems to be lacking in the CBC's communications and publicity efforts. Outside of Zed (R.I.P.) and Radio 3 - this is not something the CBC seems to do very actively. But, Radio 3 is not doing anything that can't be done. They found a topic that a certain segment of the population care about, independent music, found a staff that cares just as much about independent music and started a conversation. This could just as easily be done around film, literature, other forms of music, business, politics, current events, cooking, travel, parenting ......
True, some of it is generational but only to an extent. When people say 'our demographic is older' the programming they produce seems to target an audience that doesn't even exist anymore. The 'older' audience is not the same 'older' audience that existed in 1970. Even many of todays seniors grew up on Rock and Roll, the Woodstock generation is getting ready to retire and even the 'Independent Music' that is Radio 3's specialty has it's roots in the 1960s, not the 1990s - many of the early indie rock fans are now contemplating retirement. Some are already there.
If the CBC truly wants to compete for viewers, it needs to focus on tearing down barriers between producers and viewers , on talking to people and not just at them, and on building communities for the long term rather than being satisfied with short term ratings numbers. In the mean time, put radio 3 on television and learn from them.
Song a day from the Doers
The new album Gaiety from the Doers comes out July 31st. Until then, the band will be posting a new song a day to their Myspace so that by the time the album comes out you will have heard the whole thing. They actually started this on Monday, so go before you miss something.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Canadian Wrestler Forced To Give Up Title
Live Audio Wrestling is reporting that Toronto native Adam 'Edge' Copeland suffered an injury last week, which will force him to relinquish the World Heavyweight Championship. A battle royal will be held at tonight's tapings to determine a new champion.
The Canadian Renaissance Project
I've talked enough about it the last few weeks - just go have a look at http://crp.publicbroadcasting.ca
Tracey Fragments
I'm holding back until closer to the TIFF, where it will premiere and you'll have a chance to see it, to say more about this but don't miss the Tracey Fragments. Read more at iMDb.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Legoland!
Aaaah this year's Fringe Festival (in Toronto) has come and gone and I believe the festival has hit record highs in terms of attendance. Although this still needs to be confirmed.
One play that I saw was Legoland (Atomic Vaudeville) and I have to say that it is by far one of the best plays I've ever seen at the Fringe (and I've been going to the Fringe for the past 10 years). I missed it at last year's SummerWorks festival and when I found out it was going to be at the Fringe, I had to see it. And I'm so glad I did. Celine Stubel and Amitai Marmorstein play, respectively, Penny and Ezra Lamb, two teenagers who were homeschooled by their hippy parents and live in a small town in Saskatchewan. They soon find themselves thrown into a Catholic school after an incident they staged at Wal-Mart and after the fact the police discover a grow-op at their residence. Afterwards, the teens find themselves on a cross-USA trip when Penny becomes obsessed with a boyband after trying to fit in at her new school. Amidst the quips, the fine acting, and the spot-on directing, there's plenty of puppets and the fact that they used characters from Sesame Street to portray US terror alerts is hilarious!
If this show should get re-mounted again, you should definitely see it!!!
One play that I saw was Legoland (Atomic Vaudeville) and I have to say that it is by far one of the best plays I've ever seen at the Fringe (and I've been going to the Fringe for the past 10 years). I missed it at last year's SummerWorks festival and when I found out it was going to be at the Fringe, I had to see it. And I'm so glad I did. Celine Stubel and Amitai Marmorstein play, respectively, Penny and Ezra Lamb, two teenagers who were homeschooled by their hippy parents and live in a small town in Saskatchewan. They soon find themselves thrown into a Catholic school after an incident they staged at Wal-Mart and after the fact the police discover a grow-op at their residence. Afterwards, the teens find themselves on a cross-USA trip when Penny becomes obsessed with a boyband after trying to fit in at her new school. Amidst the quips, the fine acting, and the spot-on directing, there's plenty of puppets and the fact that they used characters from Sesame Street to portray US terror alerts is hilarious!
If this show should get re-mounted again, you should definitely see it!!!
1980's Canadiana - Part Two
I've seen a little bit of CTV's Degrassi: TNG. Unfortunately, the CTV version appears to be another "Boston Public;" every single worse case scenario that can happen to high school students, actually happens.
On the other hand, the CBC version was classy. Just listen to that opening theme! Look at that hair!
On the other hand, the CBC version was classy. Just listen to that opening theme! Look at that hair!
Random Video Time (RVT): The Stars - Elevator Love Letter
While we're on the subject of the Stars and their music videos: Here's "Elevator Love Letter" from the album Heart
Wanna be a video Star..er..wanna be in a Stars Video?
Via MyspaceCasting Call for extras to be in the new Stars video! We are looking for volunteers of all ages to play extras in a music video shooting on Wednesday/Thursday of this week in Toronto, Canada. Extras will be involved in a club scene and as characters on the street. Please send your photos and contact information to extras@blinkpictures.com and we will be in touch if your look is right for the video!
Woodlot: Online
For those of you who haven't made it to to Woodlot: The 3rd Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery Biennial, or for those of you who haven't gone yet and want to know what you might see, or for those of you who can't possibly make it to Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario before September 9th when the show closes The catalogue is now available online, with images from each of the artists at http://www.kwag.on.ca/current_exhibitions/view/?display=more&item_id=53 and more images are available at http://www.digitalmediatree.com/sallymckay/?41597. Many thanks to the show's curator Sally McKay for the tip.
From Penn Kemp: Gathering Voices
Sound Opera on http://chrwradio.com/talk/gatheringvoices/Share
3:12pm Today | Edit Note | Delete
The next show is this Wed. Aug. 18 at 6 pm, and Thurs. 6:30 am. I hope you can catch it either then or on the archive the next day,http://chrwradio.com/talk/gatheringvoices/, and let me know what you think!
"Gathering Voices", CHRW 94.9 FM features two Sound Operas that sprang from my book of poetry, Trance Form.
P.K. Page writes in her preface: “Trance Form. Its title prepares you. For metamorphoses. For multiple meanings. Trance-verse? Born of trance-illumination? Its tableofcontent prepares you too. For homonyms, puns, complicated word play in the tradition of middle-eastern poetry: mattermater, moonphase, bonepoems. Logic trance-ended; matter trance-muted blown thru and out the other side of reasonTrance Form is an intricate book. It rewards attention. Read it with three eyes. Although two will do”.
Sound Opera is a new form I developed with musicians in performance & recording over the last three decades, in a desire to lift poetry off the page to the stage. Sound Opera is based on text but it expands poetic possibilities to include voice, music & movement, to express narrative when emotions burst the seams of print.
Soundly,
Penn
http://chrwradio.com/talk/
gatheringvoices/
myspace.com/pennkemp
3:12pm Today | Edit Note | Delete
The next show is this Wed. Aug. 18 at 6 pm, and Thurs. 6:30 am. I hope you can catch it either then or on the archive the next day,http://chrwradio.com/talk/gatheringvoices/, and let me know what you think!
"Gathering Voices", CHRW 94.9 FM features two Sound Operas that sprang from my book of poetry, Trance Form.
P.K. Page writes in her preface: “Trance Form. Its title prepares you. For metamorphoses. For multiple meanings. Trance-verse? Born of trance-illumination? Its tableofcontent prepares you too. For homonyms, puns, complicated word play in the tradition of middle-eastern poetry: mattermater, moonphase, bonepoems. Logic trance-ended; matter trance-muted blown thru and out the other side of reasonTrance Form is an intricate book. It rewards attention. Read it with three eyes. Although two will do”.
Sound Opera is a new form I developed with musicians in performance & recording over the last three decades, in a desire to lift poetry off the page to the stage. Sound Opera is based on text but it expands poetic possibilities to include voice, music & movement, to express narrative when emotions burst the seams of print.
Soundly,
Penn
http://chrwradio.com/talk/
gatheringvoices/
myspace.com/pennkemp
1980's Canadiana
Every time I watched this program, I would cry at the end.
The four-legged protagonist saved the day, and then at least one person would offer to take care of him. Despite the chance of "settling down," the stupid dog would choose to continue his life of squalor. What an idiot!
I know. I know. Settling down would defeat the purpose of the show.
The opening credits
The ending credits
The four-legged protagonist saved the day, and then at least one person would offer to take care of him. Despite the chance of "settling down," the stupid dog would choose to continue his life of squalor. What an idiot!
I know. I know. Settling down would defeat the purpose of the show.
The opening credits
The ending credits
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Canadian Renaissance Project gets ready to launch
Round one of the Canadian Renaissance Project will officially launch later this week. Round one will begin with a search for activists before the broader campaign begins. If you're so inclined please read the draft statement now. and feel free to make comments or suggestions. If you would like to work as an activist to help make it happen please drop me a note with your e-mail address and I'll be in touch shortly.
New Pronographers Tour Dates
Sadly, very, very few of these are in Canada.
JUL 15: Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Festival
JUL 29: Toronto, ON @ Rogers Picnic Festival
SEP 13: Victoria, B.C.- Canada @ McPherson Ballroom
SEP 14: Seattle, WA @ Showbox
SEP 15: Seattle, WA @ Showbox
SEP 16: Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom
SEP 17: San Francisco, CA @ Warfield Theatre
SEP 18: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues – San Diego
SEP 19: Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theater
SEP 20: Los Angeles, CA @ Henry Fonda Theater
SEP 21: Tucson, AZ @ Rialto Theatre
SEP 22: Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater
SEP 24: Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater
SEP 25: Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot
SEP 26: Boise, ID @ The Egyptian Theatre
SEP 28: Vancouver, B.C.- Canada @ Commodore Ballroom
NEWLY ADDED DATES:
OCT 11: Edmonton, AB - Canada @ Edmonton Event Centre
OCT 12: Calgary, AB - Canada @ MacEwan Balllroom (University of Calgary)
OCT 14: Missoula, MT @ University Theater (University of Montana)
OCT 15: Winnipeg, MB - Canada @ Garrick Centre At The Marlborough
OCT 16: Minneapolis, MN @ First Avenue
OCT 17: Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater
OCT 18: Chicago, IL @ Metro
OCT 19: Chicago, IL @ Metro
OCT 20: North Tonawanda, NY @ The Riviera Theatre
OCT 22: Montreal, QC - Canada @ Le National
OCT 23: Boston, MA @ The Roxy
OCT 24: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
OCT 25: New York, NY @ Webster Hall
OCT 26: Philadelphia, PA @ Trocadero
OCT 28: Asheville, NC @ The Orange Peel
OCT 30: Atlanta, GA @ Variety Playhouse
OCT 31: New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues - New Orleans
NOV 01: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live (with SPOON) (Not avail thru Ducat King)
NOV 02: Dallas, TX @ House of Blue (with SPOON) (Not avail thru Ducat King)
NOV 03: Austin, TX @ Austin, TX @ Fun Fun Fun Festival (Not avail thru Ducat King)
NOV 04: Lawrence, KS @ Liberty Hall
NOV 05: Englewood, CO @ Gothic Theatre
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Casting Call and Van Raffle
Again via the R3 blog, Pride Tiger is looking for people to appear in a music video in Toronto and Bob Wiseman is raffling off a touring van: "i would like other people who cannot afford a good used van to have that possibility possibled." If you're interested in either, visit the CBC Radio 3 for details.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
American Internet Radio Calls for Help
From Radio 3 Radio 3 The US Court of Appeals denied an emergency stay a decision which will effectively shut down American webcasters in the next few days.
This would be a serious blow to independent music and media democracy in the states. It would also likely cause a spike in file sharing and downloading.
The American government makes me tired sometimes, the next thing you know they'll be getting involved in guerilla wars in hostile countries with no clear plan of action or exit, teaching creationism in the schools, pretending homosexuality is a disease that can be cured and pretending that Global Warming isn't a problem. *sigh*
There is hope though.Wired reports, that the House Commerce Committee on Energy and Commerce will try to broker a deal between parties representing record labels and webcasters.
With the few remaining days left, SaveNetRadio.org has called on American supporters of web radio to contact their representatives, and international listeners to make their voices heard if they haven't already.
This would be a serious blow to independent music and media democracy in the states. It would also likely cause a spike in file sharing and downloading.
The American government makes me tired sometimes, the next thing you know they'll be getting involved in guerilla wars in hostile countries with no clear plan of action or exit, teaching creationism in the schools, pretending homosexuality is a disease that can be cured and pretending that Global Warming isn't a problem. *sigh*
Random Video Time: Claire Brosseau
Sure, you knew that Toronto Comic Claire Brosseau is funny but if you believe, as I do, that what you read in Facebook groups is the literal and indisputable word of god "Claire brosseau is the funniest comedian in the history of planet earth" so..you should definitely watch this, it's historic.
Band Blogs get Better
Now that MySpace has fixed their RSS feeds I've been able to do some serious work on the band blogs section. Sadly, some great people were omitted because they don't use the myspace blogs - but today I added:
New Pronographers, the Weakerthans, the Lonely Hunters, Said the Whale, , Bob Wiseman, the Islands, Junior Boys, Doers, Infotourist, You Say Party, We Say Die, Cities in Dust, dd/mm/yyyy, the Stills, Aids Wolf, Gentleman Reg, Ron Sexsmith, K'naan, Tokyo Police Club, Danny Michel, the Be Good Tanyas, Two Hours Traffic, In Flight Safety, the Besnard Lakes, the Blood Lines, Immaculate Machine, and the Meligrove Band.
New Pronographers, the Weakerthans, the Lonely Hunters, Said the Whale, , Bob Wiseman, the Islands, Junior Boys, Doers, Infotourist, You Say Party, We Say Die, Cities in Dust, dd/mm/yyyy, the Stills, Aids Wolf, Gentleman Reg, Ron Sexsmith, K'naan, Tokyo Police Club, Danny Michel, the Be Good Tanyas, Two Hours Traffic, In Flight Safety, the Besnard Lakes, the Blood Lines, Immaculate Machine, and the Meligrove Band.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Admin Note #3: Nevermind Note #1
Naturally, within an hour of writing this the Myspace feeds sprang to life again. So, while I'm apprehensive, they are back up and I'll be adding to them considerably in the coming days. Oh - and the notice board is staying.
Admin Note #2: In with the new
In place of the band blogs I've added the notice board. This is a place for Canadian musicians (or their reps), artists, filmmakers, promoters, etc., etc., as well as not-for-profits and educational institutions to announce upcoming shows, exhibits, new releases, post calls for volunteers, jobs, or generally to make announcements. All it takes is an email to 
Admin Note #1: Out with the old
At least for the time being the band blogs are gone. They haven't been updated in two weeks because Myspace's blog feeds are down. I sent them a message asking when they'd be back and they said they were working on it and pointed me to an old blog post which said the blogs were fixted. At some point they may return, but relying on Myspace to do anything properly from a technical perspective is always shaky ground.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Polaris Polarization
As promised I am going to share with you my thoughts on this years nomination for the Polaris Music Prize. Yesterday I made my predictions and today is where I'm proved wrong.
I really thought Emily Haines and Handsome Furs would be on this list, but I'm not too broken up about it because a lot of worthy albums made it. They are as followed with criticism/praise:
Neon Bible by The Arcade Fire
The Paris Hilton of bands. I sure I'm not the only one deathly sick of hearing about this band. However, no one can deny they are essential Canadian music, which earned them a spot on this list. But I think like last year's nominations of Broken Social Scene and New Pornographers, this band is too popular to win.
The Besnard Lakes are the Dark Horse by The Besnard Lakes
The title of the album says it all. I think this album is the dark horse to win. It's a solid album that grows on me more after each listen and I wouldn't be surprised if it was crowned champ.
Gang of Losers by The Dears
As I predicted, this album made it. I love love love this album and feel the band has grown so much since the release of No Cities Left. I know a lot of people disagree with me, but they obviously aren't listening to Death or Life We Want You loud enough.
Woke Myself Up by Julie Doiron
What a pleasant surprise! I always thought Julie Doiron seemed like the nicest person for some reason. Her winning would bring a huge smile to my face.
The Reminder by Feist
Not a shocking nomination considering how well received this album was, but like Arcade Fire, I think Ms. Feist is too popular to win. But props for the video for 1-2-3-4 and for being awesome. I only use the word "props" when I really like someone.
So This is Goodbye by Junior Boys
I got excited when I read this nomination because they are from Hamilton, the next city over from where I grew up. I definitely think they deserve this nomination if only to solidify the growing interest in electronica.
Five Roses by Miracle Fortress
I enjoy this album a lot, it reminds me of being drunk and walking home during a light snow fall. That's the best way I can explain it. Sorry.
Ashtray Rock by The Joel Plaskett Emergency
Gotta love concept albums. I actually thought the east coast would be represented more times on this list, but I'm happy to see this album make it. Damn, I already have Fashionable People in my head.
Skelliconnection by Chad Vangaalen
Spell check hates him, but Canada sure doesn't. And for good reason too, he is probably the best songwriter in Canada.
Close to Paradise by Patrick Watson
This was the biggest shock of the list. I never would have guessed this would make the cut, but I choose to accept it and move on. But if it wins I'll probably go into a coma.
So those are the nominations. Not as diverse as last year, but good none the less. I actually thought Ohbijou would make the cut. This award was made for a band like that. Swift Feet for Troubling Times is just plain amazing. But, like I said before, these nominations satisfy me.
I'm thinking The Besnard Lakes is going win. Who's with me? Your thoughts? Who else is missing from this list?
I really thought Emily Haines and Handsome Furs would be on this list, but I'm not too broken up about it because a lot of worthy albums made it. They are as followed with criticism/praise:
Neon Bible by The Arcade Fire
The Paris Hilton of bands. I sure I'm not the only one deathly sick of hearing about this band. However, no one can deny they are essential Canadian music, which earned them a spot on this list. But I think like last year's nominations of Broken Social Scene and New Pornographers, this band is too popular to win.
The Besnard Lakes are the Dark Horse by The Besnard Lakes
The title of the album says it all. I think this album is the dark horse to win. It's a solid album that grows on me more after each listen and I wouldn't be surprised if it was crowned champ.
Gang of Losers by The Dears
As I predicted, this album made it. I love love love this album and feel the band has grown so much since the release of No Cities Left. I know a lot of people disagree with me, but they obviously aren't listening to Death or Life We Want You loud enough.
Woke Myself Up by Julie Doiron
What a pleasant surprise! I always thought Julie Doiron seemed like the nicest person for some reason. Her winning would bring a huge smile to my face.
The Reminder by Feist
Not a shocking nomination considering how well received this album was, but like Arcade Fire, I think Ms. Feist is too popular to win. But props for the video for 1-2-3-4 and for being awesome. I only use the word "props" when I really like someone.
So This is Goodbye by Junior Boys
I got excited when I read this nomination because they are from Hamilton, the next city over from where I grew up. I definitely think they deserve this nomination if only to solidify the growing interest in electronica.
Five Roses by Miracle Fortress
I enjoy this album a lot, it reminds me of being drunk and walking home during a light snow fall. That's the best way I can explain it. Sorry.
Ashtray Rock by The Joel Plaskett Emergency
Gotta love concept albums. I actually thought the east coast would be represented more times on this list, but I'm happy to see this album make it. Damn, I already have Fashionable People in my head.
Skelliconnection by Chad Vangaalen
Spell check hates him, but Canada sure doesn't. And for good reason too, he is probably the best songwriter in Canada.
Close to Paradise by Patrick Watson
This was the biggest shock of the list. I never would have guessed this would make the cut, but I choose to accept it and move on. But if it wins I'll probably go into a coma.
So those are the nominations. Not as diverse as last year, but good none the less. I actually thought Ohbijou would make the cut. This award was made for a band like that. Swift Feet for Troubling Times is just plain amazing. But, like I said before, these nominations satisfy me.
I'm thinking The Besnard Lakes is going win. Who's with me? Your thoughts? Who else is missing from this list?
Arts & Crafts are Smart
The new Stars album In Our Bedroom After War isn't due to hit stores until September 25, but you can get it now, legally - just 4 days after completion. Arts and Crafts had the good sense to realize that between now and September copies of the album would find their way onto the internet somehow and that fans, given the option of downloading it now for free and waiting until September 25 to buy it in stores would be faced with a tough call. So - You can buy and download a copy now at galleryac.com though at the time of this writing the site appears to be overloaded with trafic and isn't coming up. The full text of the message from Arts & Crafts is below.
On September 25th, Arts&Crafts will release Stars' fourth studio album, In Our Bedroom After War.
We love it and are excited and proud to be bringing it to the world.
We enlisted Joe Chiccarelli to mix the album. He finished in early June, passing the tapes along to Emily Lazar at the Lodge for mastering. Last Friday, July 6th, a final master was delivered to us.
Traditional music business practice says we are to begin sending out copies of this album now. We give advance copies to print publications in hopes of securing features that coincide with our September date. We meet with radio stations in hopes of securing airplay. etc, etc.
Inevitably someone will leak the album.
Throughout this process, the most important people in this value chain, the fans, are given only two options - wait until September 25th to legally purchase the new album or choose from a variety of sources and download the album for free, at any time.
We hope you'll choose to support the band, and choose to pay for their album. However we don't think it's fair you should have to wait until September 25th to do so.
We believe that the line between the media and the public is now completely grey.
What is the difference between a writer for a big glossy music magazine and a student writing about their favourite bands on their blog? What differentiates a commercial radio station from someone adding a song to their lastfm channel? or their myspace page?
As such, we are making the new Stars album available for legal download today, four days after it's completion. The CD and double vinyl versions of the album will still be released on our official release date, September 25th. We hope you will continue to support music retailers should a physical album in all it's packaged glory be your choice of format.
It's our hope that given a clear, legal alternative to downloading music for free, you will choose to support the creators.
We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Sincerely,
Stars and Arts&Crafts
On September 25th, Arts&Crafts will release Stars' fourth studio album, In Our Bedroom After War.
We love it and are excited and proud to be bringing it to the world.
We enlisted Joe Chiccarelli to mix the album. He finished in early June, passing the tapes along to Emily Lazar at the Lodge for mastering. Last Friday, July 6th, a final master was delivered to us.
Traditional music business practice says we are to begin sending out copies of this album now. We give advance copies to print publications in hopes of securing features that coincide with our September date. We meet with radio stations in hopes of securing airplay. etc, etc.
Inevitably someone will leak the album.
Throughout this process, the most important people in this value chain, the fans, are given only two options - wait until September 25th to legally purchase the new album or choose from a variety of sources and download the album for free, at any time.
We hope you'll choose to support the band, and choose to pay for their album. However we don't think it's fair you should have to wait until September 25th to do so.
We believe that the line between the media and the public is now completely grey.
What is the difference between a writer for a big glossy music magazine and a student writing about their favourite bands on their blog? What differentiates a commercial radio station from someone adding a song to their lastfm channel? or their myspace page?
As such, we are making the new Stars album available for legal download today, four days after it's completion. The CD and double vinyl versions of the album will still be released on our official release date, September 25th. We hope you will continue to support music retailers should a physical album in all it's packaged glory be your choice of format.
It's our hope that given a clear, legal alternative to downloading music for free, you will choose to support the creators.
We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.
Sincerely,
Stars and Arts&Crafts
Monday, July 09, 2007
The newbie makes predictions
Hey Everyone,
My name is Cody and I'm a new blogger here at public broadcasting.
I couldn't be happier to be involved with this awesome blog and share my views on Canadian music.
I'm a music journalist and live to write about and promote Canadian talent. I've worked for online magazines for a while now and wanted to try something new. You may or (probably) may not have read me at Noise@Niagara and Audio Blood.
OK, that transition sucked, but give me some credit, it's my first day.
Anyway, I wanted to start things off with a prediction on the albums I think have a chance at being nominated for the newly prestigious Polaris Music Prize. Will the underdog win like last year's champ Final Fantasy? Well, that can wait until tomorrow.
Knives Don't Have Your Back by Emily Haines seems like a likely choice. As does Gang of Losers by The Dears. But that's only if I judge on the same terms as last year's nominees Broken Social Scene and New Pornographers. With that logic Feist's The Reminder will also be nominated, and rightfully so. Let's face it, hype/buzz will play a factor.
The Handsome Furs seem likely also, probably solidified by their Galaxie Rising Star award at NXNE. Also, if memory serves, Wolf Parade was nominated last year. Again, I think connections will help in this race.
I'd really like to see Laura Peek and the Winning Hearts get a nomination. That record was the first one this year that really wowed me.
Well, those are my predictions. I'm pretty much ready to be surprised tomorrow.
I'll share my thoughts on the nominations.
My name is Cody and I'm a new blogger here at public broadcasting.
I couldn't be happier to be involved with this awesome blog and share my views on Canadian music.
I'm a music journalist and live to write about and promote Canadian talent. I've worked for online magazines for a while now and wanted to try something new. You may or (probably) may not have read me at Noise@Niagara and Audio Blood.
OK, that transition sucked, but give me some credit, it's my first day.
Anyway, I wanted to start things off with a prediction on the albums I think have a chance at being nominated for the newly prestigious Polaris Music Prize. Will the underdog win like last year's champ Final Fantasy? Well, that can wait until tomorrow.
Knives Don't Have Your Back by Emily Haines seems like a likely choice. As does Gang of Losers by The Dears. But that's only if I judge on the same terms as last year's nominees Broken Social Scene and New Pornographers. With that logic Feist's The Reminder will also be nominated, and rightfully so. Let's face it, hype/buzz will play a factor.
The Handsome Furs seem likely also, probably solidified by their Galaxie Rising Star award at NXNE. Also, if memory serves, Wolf Parade was nominated last year. Again, I think connections will help in this race.
I'd really like to see Laura Peek and the Winning Hearts get a nomination. That record was the first one this year that really wowed me.
Well, those are my predictions. I'm pretty much ready to be surprised tomorrow.
I'll share my thoughts on the nominations.
Bob Wiseman - Born to Love You
Oh...and even though I didn't mention him today here's Bob Wiseman with Born to Love You.
Originally it was "Dead Inside" but the sound wasn't that great, so I switched it with "Born to Love You" - cheers!
Originally it was "Dead Inside" but the sound wasn't that great, so I switched it with "Born to Love You" - cheers!
Upcoming Calgary Events
Laurie from Lonely Hunters has been invited to contribute to the blog, but she's a busy lady these days. So, in the mean time, she's asked me to let you know about the following events coming up in Calgary.
July 18: Broken Reels film night feat. bpNichol:
Pushing the Boundaries, a documentary about the poet
featuring jwcurry. 7:30 p.m., free. Broken City,
613-11th Ave SW
July 20: Holy Beep is a multi-genre benefit for a book
on Canadian poet bpNichol, plus a filling Station
Magazine launch! Feat. Axis of Conversation, Jon
McKiel (Halifax), Jagatha Christies, lonely hunters,
Charlie Hase, Chris Ewart & Travis Murphy, and poets
jwcurry, Christian Bok, Derek Beaulieu and Natalie
Walschots. $8 min donation. Broken City, 613-11th
Ave SW
July 18: Broken Reels film night feat. bpNichol:
Pushing the Boundaries, a documentary about the poet
featuring jwcurry. 7:30 p.m., free. Broken City,
613-11th Ave SW
July 20: Holy Beep is a multi-genre benefit for a book
on Canadian poet bpNichol, plus a filling Station
Magazine launch! Feat. Axis of Conversation, Jon
McKiel (Halifax), Jagatha Christies, lonely hunters,
Charlie Hase, Chris Ewart & Travis Murphy, and poets
jwcurry, Christian Bok, Derek Beaulieu and Natalie
Walschots. $8 min donation. Broken City, 613-11th
Ave SW
RoS - There Were Holes
There were holes last night in Republic of Safety's show at the Horseshoe if you were there, you know all about them, if you weren't - go to more shows, you miss things otherwise.Maggie MacDonald & Company quickly grabbed and held an audience that had largely (I got the impression) come to see the Blow. Just to make sure she had the audiences attention, Maggie would pause periodically to interview them on their feelings about the things she was planning on singing about - an excellent way to make sure the audience grasped the concepts and, I've often found, an excellent way to get people's attention in general (talking to them that is.)
If you have not already done so you can listen to (and download) some of their songs from their Myspace page or from New Music Canada. But don't just listen, if you like music with substance, music that says something and means it, go check them out live. Republic of Safety could quickly become Toronto's very own version of X.
Oh..and the Blow from Portland, Oregon were good too, they seemed very popular with the kids but, for my money and in the same vein of music I'll take the Barmitzvah Brothers or Japanese Pop Songs.
P.S. You can also check out photos of RoS and other Toronto Bands here:
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Help Wanted!
I don't intent or want publicbroadcasting.ca to be too Toronto centric, the problem is that I'm in Toronto and so I'm more aware of what's going on here than other parts of Canada. To tell the truth I can't even cover (or be aware of) everything going on in Toronto. So, I'm looking for 'correspondents' from various parts of the country (even from Toronto).
Sadly, I can't offer to pay anyone. As you will notice this site doesn't do advertising, nor do I seek government grants etc. Because of this the site generates no money, it actually costs me money to maintain. There may, at some point in the future, be revenue for the site - but only when and if I can be sure that those providing the revenue (advertisers or otherwise) will have no impact on content. In other words they won't get any say in what goes on the site.
So, the only thing I can offer is:
1. A chance to promote, and discuss what you see as important:The site is primarily for the discussion of Canadian arts and content (art, film, music, literature, television, animation, etc.,) but this isn't a hard and fast rule, just a focus - if you, from time to time, dip into politics, culture etc., that's fine.
and
2. Almost complete editorial freedom: The site doesn't have any real editorial policies, the only things that aren't allowed are things that are actually illegal - libel, slander, hate speech, plagiarism etc., otherwise write what you want, when you want as you see fit. You don't even have to be a real writer. If you can string a few coherent paragraphs together about things that matter to you, that's enough.
If you're up for it, please drop me a note here.
Sadly, I can't offer to pay anyone. As you will notice this site doesn't do advertising, nor do I seek government grants etc. Because of this the site generates no money, it actually costs me money to maintain. There may, at some point in the future, be revenue for the site - but only when and if I can be sure that those providing the revenue (advertisers or otherwise) will have no impact on content. In other words they won't get any say in what goes on the site.
So, the only thing I can offer is:
and
If you're up for it, please drop me a note here.
Scream in High Park
The Scream Literary Festival wraps up this monday with "Scream in High Park". If you've never been to the CanStage Amphitheatre in High Park, it is truly one of Toronto's best kept secrets. If packing some snacks in the picnic basket and sitting in a natural amphitheater (with seating) in the woods, listening to an evening of poetry by Elizabeth Bachinsky, Sean Dixon, Christine Duncan, Shane Koyczan, Naila Keleta Mae, David McGimpsey, Roy Miki, A.F. Moritz, Steven Price, Priscila Uppal, Zoe Whittall, Rachel Zolf. Hosted by Karen Hines for all of 10 bucks (or pay what you can) appeals to you - come check it out. It is, after all, a Monday night - what else do you have to do?
Bronx Cheerleader - the Art of Dancing
There is alot of good Canadian stuff on YouTube and other video sites - music videos, short films, stand up comedy, television and film clips and trailers..so, rather than wait for a particular reason to post something I've decided to just start throwing bits of it out at random. Here's the Art of Dancing from St. Catherines, Ontario's Bronx Cheerleader.
Log Driver's Waltz
I got an email this morning asking if I could find the NFB's Log Driver's Waltz. This video can be found on YouTube. More information about it can be found at the National Film Board or the Internet Movie Database (IMDB).
Saturday, July 07, 2007
TIFF Site Up
I likely won't talk about the Toronto International Film Festival on this site much. I'm not big on celebrities, I don't care who was seen where, I'm not interested in autographs, so unless there is a particular film that really strikes me (and given the purpose of this site it would have to be a Canadian Film). I won't dwell much on the TIFF, but I thought I should mention that the web site is up for those who want to order tickets etc.,
Repuplic of Safety at the Horseshoe
Tommorrow Night at Toronto's Horseshoe Tavern (which is celebrating it's 60th anniversary this year), Republic of Safety will be playing with Portland Oregon's The Blow. If you don't know RoS imagine if the Cramps met the Go-Gos and ate them. Or don't imagine and just go have a listen.
Friday, July 06, 2007
Lonely Hunters CD Release Party
I was invited today to the Lonely Hunters CD Release Party. While the band is great, and I'd love to attend as I'm sure it would be a great time - my lack of being independently wealthy prevents me from flying to Calgary Tomorrow. If, like me, you can't be in Calgary tomorrow - check out Lonely Hunters on their myspace. If, on the other hand you are lucky enough to be in Calgary already (or are going to be tomorrow night) check out the info below: (since someone already went to the time and trouble to write it, I'll just present it as is)For Immediate Release
Calgary band lonely hunters release debut CD
On Saturday, July 7, Calgary pop/rock band lonely hunters release their debut CD on the new Grumpy Cloud Record Collective label. Joining them on the bill is Vancouver band Said the Whale. The Calgary CD release party will take place at the Marquee Room, located on the upper level of the Uptown Stage and Screen, 612 8th Avenue SW. Doors for the show are at 9:00 p.m.
Bio:
The Chaste are Chased (2007) is the debut release from rough-around-the-edges pop/roots four-piece lonely hunters. Gareth Williams (vocals, guitar) and Laurie Fuhr (vocals, bass) deliver sardonic musings on life, love and the state of the world with disarming, two-part harmonies. Drummer and British ex-pat Ben Rayner pounds away with grace and agility, while Calgary’s favourite lead guitarist Tynan Groves speeds magnetic sonic layers into the mix. Pop rock jangle as it was always meant to be!
While Gareth Williams hails from Winnipeg, familiar as frontman of The Horribly Awfuls and the Gareth and Shipley albums (collaborations with Consumer Goods’ Tyler Shipley), lonely hunters are currently based in Calgary, Alberta.
Label:
lonely hunters are part of Grumpy Cloud, a new independent record collective set to hand-deliver great independent albums to Canada’s major cities. Please see the Grumpy Cloud insert for more information! 2007’s The Chaste are Chased was professionally recorded by Grumpy Cloud member Ryan McVeigh at his home studio, Face Value. McVeigh is an audio engineer teaching at Winnipeg’s awesome Mid-Ocean School of the Recording Arts.
Contact:
Please visit our Myspace at www.myspace.com/garethsband to listen to sample tracks or to order the album. Also see www.myspace.com/grumpycloudrecords to find out about other bands on the new collective label.
For bookings or other inquiries, contact lonelyhunters@gmail.com or call Laurie and Gareth at (403) 999-2566
At the Drake Last Night: Will Currie and the Country French
There were all of 30-40 people last night at the Drake Hotel to see Will Currie and the Country French - which is a damn shame because they will one day play sold out shows and you won't be able to get tickets. Still, I guess the lack of buzz isn't that surprising. They don't have an album out yet, not even an EP and, being students, they have a hard time working around their summer job schedules to play gigs during the summer.
The fact that they are still students though is one of the most intriguing things about them. They are all very young, but the band is very tight, their musicianship surpasses their years and they write songs that get lodged in your head for days, but in a good way. Given a little time and luck they are going to be huge. If you get the chance, go check them out while you can still get in to the show.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Will Curry & Co: Tonight at the Drake
For awhile now I've been singing the praises of Will Currie and the Country French though they are all still very young (as far as I know all of them still attend Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont.) they already sound..well more like Ben Folds than anything else. There are hints though of Elton John, Wilco and the Beatles.
Anyway, tonight will be my first chance to see them live. So, have a look at the video below, listen to a few songs in the download section and if you like what you hear, and are looking for something to do (in Toronto) come hear them tonight at the Drake Hotel.
Anyway, tonight will be my first chance to see them live. So, have a look at the video below, listen to a few songs in the download section and if you like what you hear, and are looking for something to do (in Toronto) come hear them tonight at the Drake Hotel.
The CRTC Wants Your Internet
So the CRTC is going to look, again, at regulating 'new media'. If you are involved, at all, in new media this is almost as frightening as Canada Revenue announcing they are going to fix your car, or Canada Post telling you they can deliver your baby. For those of us who have spent years building the internet up as an alternative to main stream media the CRTC deciding to regulate it.
First of all, it is scary anytime a government body decides to regulate the internet. Regulating content on the internet is very difficult to do. Even China, which has massive firewalls built around the entire country to control content is having trouble. Secondly, the CRTC has recently been giving the impression that it exists to look after the interests of private corporations and not the public interest it was created to serve. It's recent decision on the Canadian Television Fund and it's decision to allow more commercial advertising in programs while broadcasters are already making record profits being cases in point.
So, while it is troubling to hear of a government body that wants to regulate the internet, it is even more troubling if that government body has clearly demonstrated that it's private profits and not the public good that they are worried about. This is definitely one to keep an eye on, especially concerning it's implications for Net Neutrality.
First of all, it is scary anytime a government body decides to regulate the internet. Regulating content on the internet is very difficult to do. Even China, which has massive firewalls built around the entire country to control content is having trouble. Secondly, the CRTC has recently been giving the impression that it exists to look after the interests of private corporations and not the public interest it was created to serve. It's recent decision on the Canadian Television Fund and it's decision to allow more commercial advertising in programs while broadcasters are already making record profits being cases in point.
So, while it is troubling to hear of a government body that wants to regulate the internet, it is even more troubling if that government body has clearly demonstrated that it's private profits and not the public good that they are worried about. This is definitely one to keep an eye on, especially concerning it's implications for Net Neutrality.
Penn Kemp: Poetry show and workshops
Penn Kemp is offering readings and writing workshops to go along with her radio show "Gathering Voices", a poetry program on CHRW. The show airs Wednesdays at 6 p.m. and if you miss it archived shows can be found on the website. You can also listen to CHRW online (if you don't happen to live in the London, Ontario area).
Upcoming readings and workshops include:
Upcoming readings and workshops include:
Thursday July 5 at 2:30 pm Byron Branch - Teen program
Thursday July 26 at 2:30 pm Masonville Branch - Kids Program
Thursday August 2 at 2:30 pm Masonville Branch - Teen Program
Wednesday August 15 at 2:30 pm Sherwood Branch - Kids Program
Contact: jennifer.quinton@lpl.londo
n.on.ca (HOST PHONE) 519-661-5100 ext 2064 Westmount Branch 3200 Wonderland Rd. S.London, Ontario N6L 1A6
Friday August 17, 2007. 1:00 pm Penn, reading and workshop. London Regional Children's Museum, 21 Wharncliffe Rd. S. London, Ontario. Contact: "Amanda Branton"
seum.ca>, Public Programs Manager. Tel: (519) 434-5726 Fax: (519)434-1443, www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca
Miramachi Festival Starts Today
In Miramachi, New Brunswick the 14th Annual Miramachi Rock-n-Roll Festival kicks off today. The festival is a cellebration of 'classic' Rock and Roll faturing the "Overdrive Classic Rock Show" on Thursday. For a full list of events click here.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
If You're In or Around Kitchener-Waterloo on July 11
Join Guest Curator Sally McKay and company for the 3rd Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery Biennial starting at 7 pm on Wednesday July 11.
Details
Google Map
Live At Zeke's Gallery
Did you know that you can hear live performances and interviews from Zeke's Gallery in Montreal? Check out the list at Archive.org.
note:Yes, this is the same 'Zeke' that recently had his blog shut down for blogging about something that had been reported in the papers.
Serena Ryder at the Rehearsal Hall
Did anyone catch "Live From the Rehersal Hall" last night? This is the type of programming the CBC should be doing. It's sad that a for profit, private cable station seems to get the mandate better than the Ceeb does. Oh well, Serena Ryder was on doing songs from her major label debut - a collection of covers of her favorite Canadian tunes. Serena, undoubtedly, has one of the best voices on the planet. Let's just hope that she stays here and doesn't become the newest defector to Los Angeles. You can catch hilights from the Rehearsal Hall show here
Additions to CanBlogs
I've added 3 new blogs to the CanBlogs section today:
Datalibre, which describes itself as "datalibre.ca is a group blog, inspired by civicaccess.ca, which believes all levels of Canadian governments should make civic information and data accessible at no cost in open formats to their citizens. The data is collected using Canadian tax-payer funds, and we believe use of the data should not be restricted to those who can afford the exorbitant fees."
the Invisible Truth a blog of poetry, literature and photography by Trevor Cunnington of Toronto.
and
It's not the band I hate, it's their fans - "A completely arrogant and pretentious outlet for me to rant about the state of pop music today, make a few reccomendations and talk about shows that I've recently seen."
and
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Do Make Say Think, oh and Final Fantasy Too
On Sunday night at Toronto's Harbourfront I saw Do, Make, Say, Think live for the first time. Nothing I can say, nor the video below will prepare you for the full power of DMST - with two drummers, two guitars + bass, a full horn section, violin and cello the sound just takes over. Watch the video by all means, listen to their recorded stuff, but if you get the chance go see them.
Sadly for Final Fantasy (see second video) the solo violin, even with the loops, was a bit anti-climatic after the orchestra that is DMST.
Sadly for Final Fantasy (see second video) the solo violin, even with the loops, was a bit anti-climatic after the orchestra that is DMST.
Canadian Renaissance Project: Pt. III
In the previous two entries on this (here and here) I primarily discussed the idea of a tax exempt status (to a certain level of income) for artists and content creators and why I felt this was necessary and important. I've realized however that this is only part of the battle. As long as artists incomes are very low even tax exemptions will only help so much. Artists today are in a much more challenging position than they've been in in years past. While the million channel universe offers new opportunities, it makes it even more difficult for artists to be noticed by any large number of people. While the internet does make it easier for artists to reach out and find an audience that audience may be split across the globe (or at least the country) without large numbers of them appearing in any one place.
So, part two of the Canadian Renaissance Project plan (as it currently stands) would go something like this: Following the model of the "Children's Fitness Tax Credit") Allow up to $500 per year, per individual in tax deductions for cultural activities. That would include things like art or music lessons, but it would also include concert tickets, theatre tickets, film tickets, book or music purchases, etc., (as long as it fell within the guidelines of "Canadian Content"). This would not only encourage people to spend more on these activities, it would encourage producers to produce more material and encourage retailers to carry more. I am all for physical fitness, but I happen to think that fitness for the mind and the soul are important as well.
Again, please let me know if you are interested in joining the brainstorming team for this project.
Monday, July 02, 2007
The Wish List
My good friend Kirsten, was the organizer of the second most popular wish on the CBC/Facebook Great Canadian Wish List.
Here's a news clip about the campaign. It features Kirsten, as well as the controversy surrounding certain wishes.
Here's a news clip about the campaign. It features Kirsten, as well as the controversy surrounding certain wishes.
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