Wednesday, June 30, 2010
SUM 41 Involved In Drunk Driving Accident
Monday, June 28, 2010
Pete Wentz and The Black Cards
Seems like everyone's favorite egotistical emo boy is back in the music game... not such a long break between FOB and his apparent new project: The Black Cards. Not much is known about this band, only what Pete has shared with us so far via online messages. The cryptic webpage, though it claims to be a non-viral campaign, is pretty much the definition of such- including only links to social networking sites and a catchy uncredited pop song. Pete claims that in the coming weeks, information will be linked and shared in a "controlled" manner for fans to make a judgement on. Personally, I am VERY worried that this could be a husband/wife collaboration. Remember folks: NEVER mix business with pleasure. Ok?
What do you think Pete is up to? Share your thoughts!
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Alesana Get A New Guitarist
So what do Greeley Estates and Alesana have in common? Well, besides a similar fan base and sound, the answer is guitarist Alex Torres. Alex recently made the swap into Alesana following the departure of Jake Campbell who had been with the band since 2008. He was originally their bass player before making a quick transition the same year to lead guitar.
Top Canadian Bands You May Not Know
So today, its not so much news, but one of my rants and raves about issues related to music. Today's topic: The Canadian Music Scene. This post is inspired by the MMVAs (Much Music Video Awards) which is currently airing as a rerun on my television. I didnt have much of a chance to watch this when it first aired live because I dont have cable at my house, but now that I'm at my mother's house between shitfs, I decided to give it a go. I respect the way that they are helping Canadian artists out, its great! My only issue: I find that people have a very narrow, limited view of Canada's Music industry.
As a Canadian, I am definitely proud of our exports... including those in the entertainment industry. Over the years, Canada has provided the world with some absolutely phenomenal talent... and yes, though many of them may move to the US, that doesnt change their maple leaf roots. I bet some of them still eat ketchup chips, insist on real maple syrop and believe in beer with an actual alcohol content. All that aside, my goal in this post is to remind everyone that Canadian music DOES NOT start and end with Justin Beiber. The kid may be this generation's Aaron Carter, but he is not the embodiment of this side of the border. So here is MY personal list of fiftenn amazing Canadian bands that you may or may not already be familiar with. All these bands are the combination of fantastic musicianship, raw talent, and creativity. Lets get started! In no specific order...
15) Theset
This five piece alternative rock band hails from Victoria, BC. What draws me to these guys is their live show... high energy, lots of passion, and purely Canadian. Love it. If you dont believe me, take note that this powerhouse band has played with the likes of Metric and Sebastian Granger, a couple amazing Canadian artists. If you love live music like I do, definitely look these guys up.
Their MYSPACE page has some great songs on it, I really like Already Know for what its worth!
14) Spiral Beach
This unique group comes to us from one of Canada's more well known cities, Toronto ON. This is pop with a serious edge... its definitely a bit darker than what you might expect. Lots of interesting instrumentation, powerful female and male vocalists, and a very unique sound that you wont soon forget.
Check out their website HERE!
13) Arkells
I saw these guys play a couple years ago and they did an amazing job. Hadnt heard much beyond some hype up until that point, but I'm really glad I checked them out. Love the gritty vocals, simple but effective melodies... it all comes together in a great package with these guys! You may even recognize a couple of their tracks from radio and TV. Trust me on this one, this band is amazing.
12) Ubiquitous Synergy Seeker
Are there even words for these guys? Never forget the first show I saw them play... they made a smoothie on stage as part of their set. Pricelessly entertaining and memorable: everything a show should be! Their blend of hip hop, indie and rock is completely unique and purely Canadian. They are one of those bands that make me proud to hail from the great white north.
Check them out at their Myspace page HERE
Tragedy struck this band merely months ago when they lost their drummer, but I am still very impressed by their career span, and I love their work. I've only seen them play once and it was incredibly brief, but I remember it being one of the most fun sets I have ever witnessed. Watching them play, you'll be screming PARTY at the top of your lungs!
Check out their music HERE
10) Stars
This Canadian indie group has just made it to the ten year mark, and they have already solidified their place in this music scene. Lets face it, any group attached to the Broken Social Scene name is destined to be touched with gold. They're heading out on tour soon so be sure to check them out if they make a stop near you!
Check out their Myspace page HERE
9) Attack In Black
This band is a bit tricky... let me explain. They are EXTREMELY talented, yes. That is a given. They make great music, I certainly wont argue that. BUT I have seen alcohol pretty much destroy my opinion of their performance. See, I have seen them a few times. The problem is, they reallllly lack in the consistancy area, and its ALL dependent on how much they have had to drink before. I really like them, but I actually fell asleep once when I saw them open at an arena show because I was so lack luster with the performance. I have high hopes for these guys. I really do. They have some serious potential, and their album got rave reviews... I just hope that next time I see them, its soberISH.
Hear their Music HERE
These Halifax natives came together in 2001, and they're only just getting the recognition they deserve. I mean, lets be honest, its been a couple years now since Weighty Ghost dominated Canadian airwaves and its STILL stuck in my head! With all of the music I listen to, thats a pretty impressive achievement haha. "Are you some kind of medicine man? Cut the demons out of my head, You cant kill something thats already dead, Just leave my soul alone."
Listen to their music HERE
7) Controller.Controller
Probably one of the better known Canadian bands. An indie group with a bit of a techno edge, they make some really fantastic music... kind of dark, but still dancey with the beats and rhythms used.
Check out their Music HERE
6) Dragonette
Love Dragonette. Yet another one of those bands who have become quite the hometown favorites in these parts- seems like every show they play in the area is packed and hyped up to no end... and its easy to see why! The synth-pop trio have dominated the Canadian airwaves with radio friendly dance tracks like "I Get Around" which made it onto the Canadian Billboard chart. Between Martina's flawless voice, their signature creative genre bending sound and ability to kickstart dance parties from coast to coast, there is an endless list of reasons as to why this band is on the Canadian radar.
Listen to Dragonette HERE
5) Final Fantasy (aka Owen Pallett)
Owen is also a Toronto native... and absolutely brilliant, just like a handful of others on the list. Man, thats one talented city. What is perhaps most amazing about Pallett is the fact that he is clearly in it for the pure, simple love of music. He is known to donate a lot of the money to great causes. Struggling musicians, Doctors Without Borders... thats pretty cool. This violinist is one of a kind. Live shows get rave reviews and he even won the highly valued Polaris Music Prize. His work with numerous artists and solo ensure him a place on my list of valued Canadian musicians.
Give Owen and his work a listen HERE
4) Jesse Labelle:
Yes, a personal favorite of mine. This guy used to play a regular one man, one guitar show at a bar in my hometown before he hit it big- so its possible I'm in a bit bias. That dazzling smile, those heartfelt lyrics, and those impressive guitar solos probably encourage that bias JUST a little haha. Anyways, the Toronto native is remarkably talented and his cd is filled with beautifully written, catchy pop tunes that I can definitely see making a mark on the charts in the near future! Definitely check him out
Check out Jesse's music HERE... definitely listen to Dont Leave Now if you want a good idea of this boy's flawless voice
3) Saint Alvia
Formerly, Saint Alvia Cartel, the group formed back in 2005 uniting members of other bands like Jersey and Boys Night Out. Whats always great about bands coming together like that is the diverse influences that are often drawn out. The dynamic can make for a very distinct style that can never be duplicated. In this case... something punk/reggae/ska-esque. Magic. Give it a listen, its pretty fantastic, especially if you're looking for some summer tracks.
Listen to Saint Alvia HERE
2) Woodhands
More Toronto! This electro-indie pop duo is another example of the incredible things that happen when musicians from different backgrounds come together. Synth player Dan Werb had worked in bands from the Vancouver and Montreal scenes before teaming up with drummer Paul Banwatt. What ensued their collabortion? Pure Magic! This is what happens when punk meets sophisticated techno beats and catchy synth melodies. Hard to believe this is all the doing of two guys and a producer... thats what I call talent. Enjoy!
Check out Woodhands HERE
1) Broken Social Scene
Perhaps the most multi-faceted Canadian band in existence. This indie powerhouse contains a varrying number of band members who are involved in projects of their own outside the group. Members include well known musicians like Feist, Emily Haines (Metric) and Jason Tait. Now lets be honest here... with a lineup consisting of some of Canada's most amazing indie talent- HOW CAN YOU GO WRONG? Its just not possible for this to end badly. Melding ideas from some of the most brillian indie voices in the country is only going to result in a surge of intense Canadian pride. DEFINITELY check them out and prepare to be left speechless.
Listen to some amazing Canadian music by Broken Social Scene HERE
And thats it folks, some awesome Canadian tunes to make you think twice about the great white north. Let me know what you think, eh?
Rock On!
-Girl At The Rock Show
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Free Warped Tour Sampler From Itunes!
So to those of you attending this year's warped tour, or those of you trying to decide if the ticket is worth it to you this year (especially with the lack of old school punk on the tour) this may help you out! Itunes and Vans have come together to provide a FREE music sample download, available until August 2010. Yes, you read that right... FREE. The 10 song download includes tracks from several of this year's performers including Alkaline Trio, New Cities, and Set Your Goals. The album is short, but a great insight to some of the different acts that are can be found of the stages this year. Might help you decide if the lineup is a good fit for you! So check out the sampler HERE, it is available in both Canada and the USA.
What do you think? Good idea!
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
NOFX To Release "The Longest EP"
So punk legends NOFX have announced that they will be releasing a collection of EP tracks. The tunes will date back to 1987 all the way to the present date. They have decided to title the work: "The Longest EP". Very fitting I'd say, including all those tracks would definitely make it a pretty long EP... most EPs are only a few songs long. However, with the average track length under 2mins, I suppose it could balance out. Guess we'll have to wait and see.
Have to say, I'm not much a fan of NOFX. I know, I know, backlash awaits that comment in the punk community. I am sure that in admitting this, I could stand to lose a few followers. The thing is, I respect their career... they have worked long and hard to get where they are. I like that they have really solidified their place in modern punk history, HOWEVER, after watching them "share their opinions" on more than one occassion at various Warped Tours, I lost A LOT of respect for them. For me, Punk isnt about being so outspoken that you insult everyone around you... its about being free to believe what you want. Its about being your own person. But that doesnt mean that you have to criticize people for what they believe in... its not the way I work. I dont mind some of the music- a lot of it is great punk, but I just cant watch these guys play live shows anymore... its frustrating for me I guess. Anyways, thats my thought on the subject. Feel free to disagree, music is something that everyone has their own opinion on, especially when it boils down to the politics of the whole thing.
So new NOFX EP... looking forward to it? I'll give it a listen, but dont look for me at live shows!
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Slipknot Bassist Cause Of Death Revealed
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Mark Hoppus To Host Weekly TV Show On Fuse
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Boxcar Racer Coming To Vinyl
Yup- its true! Even though the band broke it off a while back, its been confirmed that Boxcar Racer's album will soon be making an appearance on vinyl. Perhaps a must have for any die hard Blink-182/Tom Delonge/Travis Barker fan. I have the cd and its pretty rocking. Have to say that tracks like "I Feel So" and "There Is" still make regular appearances on my playlists. Now, the vinyl is being sold through Hot Topic chains and is on a very limited count. Only 2000 pressings of a limited edition black and red swirl vinyl are available... so act quickly if you're interested! A great addition to any fan's collection.
Do you still rock out to Boxcar? Whats your favorite track?
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Friday, June 18, 2010
Riley Breckenridge of Thrice Announces Weekly Column
For those of you who think, "Man, that name sounds familiar"... yes, you may know Riley outside his skillful drumming for alternative rock group, Thrice. Riley isnt new to the world of the written word, and I'm not taking about penning a song. No, no. The drummer acutally used to write a column alongside Morningwood singer Chantel Claret. "The Battle Of The Sexes" column took a fan's problem and examined it from both the male and female perspective- providing two points of view and separate sets of advice, followed by a semi joint ruling. I used to read this all the time... before it was cancelled in 2007. Anyways, seems the writing bug couldnt let Riley stray for long. Seems the drummer is back with pen in hand, this time writing for OC Weekly. His column will be called: Riley's Three Things. Each week, it will feature a list, like a top 3. Could be interesting. I'm curious to see with some of the Top 3 lists he comes up with! He's a great writer so its definitely worth a read. Simple, yet intriguing. I like it.
Will you be reading Riley's 3Hree Things? (no thats not a spelling mistake, thats the title haha)
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
All Time Low's Alex Gaskarth Covers "Jumper" With Third Eye Blind
Just wanted to share a video with you all today. Its kind of cool... shows how rock can interact even with generation gaps pushing two bands apart. While on the Bamboozle Road Show, Third Eye Blind had All Time Low vocalist, Alex Gaskarth, come out and perform Jumper with them. Classic song- makes for a great karaoke track for those of you keeping score of such suggestions at home. Anyways, the band and Alex did a great job performing the track together. Really brought a sense of community to the act, which I love. None of that pretentious "I've been doing this longer than you" stuff that sometimes happens. Sad, but true. So check out the video below, see what you think! I love it. Alex's voice is a great fit. Have to say- ATL is really starting to grow on me. Take that however you want, I'm not ashamed of my love for pop-punk boys haha.
What do you think? Not too shabby, eh? *yes, I AM CANADIAN*
Rock on,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Alternative Press Show Off 2010 Warped Tour Covers
So, Alternative Press have unveiled their Warped Tour edition covers and they look great! This year's photos include members of We The Kings, Bring Me The Horizon, Alkaline Trio, The Rocket Summer, Versaemerge and more! This year's tour may not be the most exciting lineup (in my books anyways) but it still has some rocking bands and the experience is still unlike anything else in North America. I'm stoked, and these covers just intensify that adrenaline. Warped Tour- here I come! Year seven is going to be killer. I'll be adding this issue to my collection soon, will you?
Who's checking out Warped 2010? Who are you excited to see?
Tell Me! We'll compare notes :)
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Free Drake/Hanson Show In NYC Shut Down For Safety
Yup, its true! A free Drake & Hanson show planned for New York City was shutdown by cops today due to safety hazards. No one had a chance to grace the stage before the NYPD decided to cancel the performance and clear the area. So what caused the cancellation? Apparently- far too many people showed up! I have to ask... what were they expecting? Drake is a huge up and coming hip hop artist with an album that dropped yesterday to rave reviews and probably major sales... wouldnt you think that throwing a FREE concert in a major city would result in a disaster? I would. Its kind of common sense...
In any case, the lack of space kind of drove people crazy. They began to climb up buildings and structures for a better view. When security asked them to come down, they got vicious. Sadly, quite a few people were hurt in the event. Just goes to show you that concerts can still be violent. Tragic really. If everyone would just take it easy and relax a bit, then concerts could be a fun experience like they're supposed to be! Dont you miss those days? I do :(
What do you think? Were the cops in the right? Watching the footage, I'd say they were!
Rock on,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
B.o.B Premieres New Music Video For "Airplanes" Featuring Paramore's Hayley Williams
Rock On!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Green Day Perform On The Tony Awards
FIRST OFF: I'm sorry, my encoding does not seem to be working. Something is up with my computer so I'm not able to post videos outside of Hyperlink format. I'm working on it, I promise to try and fix it ASAP! SORRY!
As some of you already know, Green Day were nominated for a few awards at this year's Tony Awards in recognition of their success on the Broadway circuit with "American Idiot". Green Day and cast also performed at the ceremony, bringing the crowd to their feet with a standing ovation. It was a very cool performance of some American Idiot/21st Century Breakdown tracks. I love the way they were able to bring the original rock n roll side and musical side together so well. Check out the video HERE and see what you think!
Well? Not bad in my mind. I'm really wanting to go check this out. How about you?
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Stars New Album Now Streaming
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Thom Yorke Warns Of Music Industry's Collapse
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
New Lady Gaga Video For "Alejandro" Hits The Air
Yes, its true! The latest in the long line of Lady Gaga epics has finally been released. The eight minute video is, in true Gaga style, an oddity. In the first minute alone it features men in fishnet stockings, and a circus inspired military march. Fast forward a little more and you have a very dark funeral and some pretty twisted imagery. Pretty standard for her, but still, she manages to keep it interesting for sure. There is definitely a lot to see haha.
Check out the video HERE and see what you think.
Anyone else seeing a LOT of more modern nods to Madonna here? I REALLY am!
As always, let me know what you think, lets talk music videos :)
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Teaser For Katy Perry's New Video Hits The Viral Circuit!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Jimmy Eat World Finish Upcoming Album
Green Day Nominated For Tony Awards
Friday, June 4, 2010
Original Pink Spiders Lineup To Reunite?
So rumors have been running wild that the original Pink Spiders lineup may be working together once more! I dont know how many of you are familiar with these guys, but if you arent PLEASE I urge you to give them a listen. Their music is seriously amazing. Kind of a retro fitted brand of pop punk... lots of catchy melodies. Hard not to fall in love with it. Anyways, the original lineup disbanded a couple years back around the time they released "Sweat It Out". The album was recorded with the original band, but the members soon departed due to royalty fee issues and left Matt Friction as the only founding member. Soon after, Matt announced a longterm hiatus so he could focus on his side project, Matt Friction and the Cheap Shots.
Matt announced however, that the original line would possibly be getting back together. Via myspace, he said that the three had been playing together and that talks of tours and albums could follow!
For a fan, this is definitely exciting news :) How about you guys? Excited?
Rock On,
-Girl At The Rock Show
Thursday, June 3, 2010
New Anberlin Album Release Date
The Holly Springs Disaster Breakup!
What do you think of the news? Sad? Happy? Indifferent? Let me know!