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.
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