"What Song Describes You?"

Hello one and all!

Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you've all had your fill of family and food, I know I have. I'd like to also apologize for my lack of posts this week, but between holidays, school and work its been crazy. I promise to make more effort to make up for it though. Now for some music related discussion!

Like most of the university world, I’m a facebook addict. In all honesty, it probably takes up more of my daily life than I care to admit. Now, in the past few months, apps have been on the rise. Every time I log in to my homepage, I’m greeted with quiz results of all kinds. “What kind of tattoo should you get?” or “What animal best represents you?” to name a couple. I don’t know how many of you have ever actually bothered to take these quizzes, but the questions and answers themselves… the entire process really, is just ridiculous. The ones I find of particular interest are titled something along the lines of “what song best describes you?” I mean, how can you tell what kind of music I like based on my favorite color or my age? Maybe not even what I like, but what DESCRIBES me. I find it difficult to imagine that there is one single song out there that defines me as a person. As I mentioned, the way I see music is like a never ending soundtrack. Its a radio station that changes songs constantly... there are rarely any repeats. So I think that picking one song would have to mean it covers all aspects of my life... how is that even possible?

I took one of these quizzes for the sake of this blog. My results: Gavin Degraw's I Dont Wanna Be. To be honest, not a bad choice. But still, it doesnt scream me. I've never had someone hear this and say, "Jess this is you". Music is complex, but people are even more so. Songs can certainly reflect us on a certain day, or become the playlist to specific events. In all honesty, I'd almost say classical music is more likely to represent me because the music is able to transform many times, almost represent as a new piece within the whole. But personally, I dont think I can be defined by a single song. There are too many sides of myself to be portrayed in a three minute track. Thats my opinion anyways.

The quiz itself is clearly made by a 13 year old, but give it a go. What song does it say you are? Do you agree or disagree? Why? Is there a song you've always felt represented you? Tell me about your experience with these interesting little facebook apps or that random song you have a strong connection to. The bonus? It will kill three minutes of time when you're super bored!

Thanks for reading, happy turkey day to all the Canadians!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: She by Green Day ...This song represented a piece of my life, in fact this band represents a good chunk of it too, so I thought it would be fitting haha. *note: Green Day is one of my all time favorites so they'll be appearing A LOT in my blogs :P

Why Cant We Be Friends? Music Critics On The Street

So this weekend, I participated in the London Zombie Walk. It was a lot of fun, definitely an interesting experience and I highly recommend it. I have to say it was refreshing to dress "down" for once. Instead of spending time doing my hair and choosing clothing, etc... I just had to look like the living dead. An easy thing for a stressed out, over tired student suffering from extreme insomnia! Anyways, I digress, lets get back to the main point.

On our walk there, my friend and I ran into this guy who was also looking for the walk. We started talking and eventually came to the topic of music. I love to talk music, but I also find I will usually only do it with people I know well. Here's the reason: people get too defensive and critical.

Take for example, this guy we met. He was cool and all, but as soon as it came to music, I decided the conversation was over. He asked if we were into punk, which we both are. But as soon as it came up that we also listen to Blink-182, he went off about how its "not real punk" and "we should get into the real stuff". The way I see it, music is subjective. We all like what we like, there's no right or wrong. Yes, I love listening to Black Flag and Fugazi, but I ALSO like Green Day and Blink-182. Heck, I even enjoy the occasional Britney Spears song. I dont see a problem with that... I feel like its unfair to criticize someone for a personal choice.

So next time you're talking about music, dont judge. You may have a difference of opinion, and thats cool, share it! BUT share it in a way that doesnt make you seem like a jerk. Its great to have an opinion, but be open minded. I'm not saying agree with everything, but I'm saying use constructive criticism instead of "you're wrong, I'm right, the end". Music is an area where you can never know everything, theres always something new, so dont assume that because you read Rolling Stone every month you are suddenly a music hierarchy. All I'm saying is respect people's music choices because music is often something that is near and dear to us all. Attacking it, is like attacking them. Think about it next time.

Anyone else have run ins like this? If so, tell me about them!
Rock On!
- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: Little Know It All by Sum 41 and Iggy Pop

The Academy Is... ?

Today I want to share with you all a band that I've loved since the day I first heard them. I remember it clearly... It was late one night in early 2005, I was on Yahoo's LAUNCH player listening to music and doing homework when I heard this gorgeous voice through my headphones. Bringing up the screen immediately, I quickly penned the song's title: Slow Down by The Academy Is... Being a fan of Fall Out Boy (laugh all you want, I don't care, yes I'm 20 and I like Black Flag AND Fall Out Boy) I had heard of the name, but never the music. I couldn't believe I had waited so long to do so! By the time the three minute song had ended, I was already anxiously searching for others. I think I must have spent that night glued to my computer with their album on repeat. That was just the beginning, but things haven't changed all that much.

The band is currently made up of William Beckett (lead vox), Adam T Siska (bass), Andy "The Butcher" Mrotek (drums), Mike Carden (guitar) and Michael Guy Chislett ( lead guitar). They formed in the Chicago area in 2003 after Beckett and Carden (formerly of rival bands) joined together and began to write. Their unique blend of influences and styles, combined with catchy pop tunes made it easy to make a name for themselves. After a few member changes, they had found their sound. Each member contributing with their own quirks and talent. Beckett with his girlish appearance and soft exquisite voice, Carden with his shy demeanor and passion for playing, Andy with his artistic nature, Sisky with his youth and charisma. They were soon signed to Decaydance Records and released their first official full length album, Almost Here. This release earned them a spot on the 2005 Vans Warped Tour where I was able to see them perform for the first time. 

I'll never forget how excited I was. I spent the whole day waiting for it, and when their set finally started, I was in heaven. For 30 minutes, I held on to every guitar note, every drum beat, every eloquently spoken word that I could. After they finished, the guys hung around and talked to those of us who had stuck around in the sweltering heat. So down to earth, so unfazed by the celebrity that had been bestowed on them. Later on, I caught up with them again as they wandered the park spraying unsuspecting victims with water guns. They were all just average guys, looking to play music that people would enjoy. I think this impression made a lasting impact on me. They may not remember me, but every time I see or meet them, it hits me how much these guys haven't changed.

Since this early run on Warped Tour, they have gone on to play headlining shows and other festivals. Adding long time friend Michael Chislett to the band (formerly of Butch Walker and the Lets Go Out Tonites) releasing two more albums (Santi & Fast Times At Barrington High) and a couple EPs in the process. They are currently co-headlining Alternative Press' Fall Ball Tour with Mayday Parade in support of their latest EP Lost In Pacific Time. This tour passes through Toronto on Friday Novemeber 13th, get your tickets now, I know I have mine!

Albums:

The Academy EP (2004)

Almost Here (Feb.2005)

Santi (Apr.2007)

Fast Times At Barrington High (Aug.2008)

Lost In Pacific Time EP (Sept.2009)

Choice Tracks:

40 Steps, About A Girl, The Test, Rumored Nights, Sleeping With Giants, Skeptics And True Believers, Sputter (feat. Andrew McMahon), Down And Out,The Author

Hope you like it as much as I do :)

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Monday is the New Friday!

Hello Readers!

Monday again... what an awful day, don't you think? Its that first day back to class, when you know that you have four long days to look forward to before the weekend comes back to your waiting arms. In the mean time, its all class, work and readings. But I have to admit, I've come to love monday nights and I can tell you why in one word: karaoke. Molly Blooms is the place to be monday night if you wanna belt out a good old classic rock song. For those of you not interested in some Pat Benatar or Journey, I bet they can meet your needs as well. I know I've been dragged up for some Katy Perry tunes. Its the rock star experience... a stage, a cheering crowd, the spotlight on you! So if you're anywhere near Richmond monday night, or you find yourself bored at home, go check out Molly's! Get a couple requests in and let go. These people wont judge you, its all in good fun! Let your inner rockstar lose and show that stage what you're made of.

I highly recommend some Bon Jovi... You Give Love and Livin On A Prayer are always classics!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: Eye of the Tiger by Survivor

Also a perfect song to get the crowd involved, trust me I've seen it happen!

Let It Rock

Good Evening One And All!

So as it was homecoming AND my roommate's birthday this weekend, we decided to hit the town for a night out. As a music fan, I'm usually pretty happy with anything that comes on over the speakers while I'm on the dance floor. A little Britney, some Rihanna and a dash of David Guetta, I'm sold. However, I always enjoy it even more when I hear those few rock songs play. They never fail to get me singing and dancing with the best of them. Ever notice they're always played one after another? Without fail, every bar I've been to plays a block of specific rock songs, probably to get everyone singing along. It usually goes something like this: Livin' On A Prayer, Dont Stop Believin', Thunderstruck, Summer of 69 and Pour Some Sugar On Me. Now, don't get me wrong, I love these songs, but come on... there are others that could easily fit in at clubs. All I'm saying is these DJs could test the waters and try some "new" material before these classic songs get more overplayed than the current top 40 playlist haha :)

Hope you all enjoyed Homecoming, sorry for the lack of post yesterday!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: Bounce by The Cab

This is a band I could see getting some airplay at the bars... definitely catchy, danceable and all around good fit. Imagine a techno remix of this... pretty sweet in my opinion!

London ON Concert Listings!

Happy Homecoming Weekend Blogosphere

And if its not homecoming for you, well thats ok. Throw on some school colors and join the party anyways, no one will know the difference.

Today I am just going to give you a calander of upcoming London area events (shows/concerts). As it is homecoming, I have some party preparations in need of my attention haha. But here we go, here are some shows coming up that you may be interested in checking out!

Who? Big John Bates And The Voodoo Dollz

Where? Call The Office

When? October 2nd (TODAY)

How Much? $7

Who? Cuff The Duke

Where? Call The Office

When? October 3

How Much? $12.50 adv/$15 at door

Who? Dragonette

Where? Call The Office

When? October 6

How Much? $12 adv/$15 at door

Who? Two Hours Traffic and Spiral Beach

Where? Call The Office

When? October 13

How Much? $10 adv/$12 at door

Who? 3 Inches Of Blood

Where? Call The Office

When? October 20

How Much? $8 adv/$10 at door

Who? A Horse And His Boy

Where? Call The Office

When? October 24

How Much? $5

Who? Three Days Grace

Where? John Labatt Centre

When? December 15

How Much? $41.75-$46.75

Who? Stone Temple Pilots

Where? John Labatt Centre

When? November 19

How Much? $36.75-$61.25

Who? The Most Serene Republic

Where? London Music Hall

When? November 4

How Much? $10

Thats all I'm gonna list today, even though there are lot of great bands to check out! For more details, check these sites:

www.ticketscene.ca - buy tickets for club shows here

www.johnlabattcentre.com - homepage

www.calltheoffice.com - a great little bar downtown with a lot of music history

www.londonindie.com - a great page with concert listings for London area

Thanks for reading, make sure to support the local music scene and check out some shows!

Rock On!

- Girl At The Rock Show

Song of the Day: Saviour by Rise Against

One of my favourite bands, guaranteed to come up a few times in posts haha. I woke up to this song on my radio this morning, not a bad way to kick start homecoming if you ask me!

Butch Walker: The Man Behind Your Music

I'm going to use the blog today to briefly talk about one of my ABSOLUTE favorite underrated artists, Butch Walker. Although the name probably doesn't mean a lot to you now, I hope it does by the end of this blog. I highly recommend checking him out when you have a couple minutes to kill!

You know those songs you hear, the ones you can sing word for word but you have no idea who wrote them? Well, there's a good chance they were originally penned by this man! Although he has achieved limited radio play in his career span, many of his songs have appeared in movies and on TV. Not to mention, he's also a rather prominent writer and producer, having worked for the likes of Pink, Fall Out Boy, Katy Perry, Tommy Lee, and Weezer to name a few. Thats a pretty impressive career for a guy who rarely steps outside the club tour circuit. I find it refreshing that he is able to write, perform and have an input on every aspect of his music.

An active musician for nearly twenty five years, I almost find it sad that he has not obtained much critical appraise for his work. This man is the definition of hard working artist after all. I had the opportunity to check out one of his rare Canadian dates while on tour last winter and I cannot even begin to describe it. Never have I experienced a concert to that level of intensity. The raw talent and pure passion radiating from his presence were enough to draw even the most skeptic onlooker to the stage. He was very engaging to the audience, asking them to speak out if they felt it necessary, and even going as far as to jump off the stage in the middle of a song to perform the rest of it in the crowd. I mean, how many people start singalong circles at concerts these days? It was like being in the presence of an artist about to create a masterpiece. The anticipation, the curiosity, the passion... it was breathtaking.

One thing I truly love about this artist is the fact that his greatness is unknown to him. He still admits to getting nervous, he still plays shows at little bars in his hometown, he still shies away from television slots. He is highly sought after for his skills in the business, but decided after many years of broken industry promises and band breakups to keep his work rather modest. Albums are few and far between as he has been coined somewhat of a perfectionist, never settling for something he isn't proud of. He's not all about the money and extravagant stage shows, he's about the love of music and making a living through it. The stripped down, basic guitar rock songs are his craft, and I for one am so thrilled that artists like this still have a place to make a name for themselves. If you EVER get the chance to see this man perform, please do it. I promise you, you'll regret it if you don't because this type of artist and performance style are incredibly rare these days. Even if you arent sure how much you love the music, I can almost guarantee you'll love the show. I'll leave you with a set of songs by Butch that I highly recommend.

1) The Weight Of Her

Album: Sycamore Meadows

This song is super catchy, once its stuck in your head, you'll be singing it everywhere you go... in a good way!

2) Don't Move

Album: Left Of Centered

A beautiful song that really showcases his vocal abilities.

3) Maybe Its Just Me

Album: Letters

Again, gorgeous and simple love ballad (you may recognize this one!)

4) Bethamphetamine

Album: The Rise and Fall Of Butch Walker and the Lets Go Out Tonites

Back to more upbeat rock songs on his repertoire... yes that IS Avril Lavigne in the video

5) Rich People Die Unhappy

Album: The Rise and Fall Of Butch Walker and the Lets Go Out Tonites

I love the video, its a great explanation of his career to that point (so the first 20 years or so)

6) Here Comes...

Album: Sycamore Meadows

This song features singer, Pink. Amazing duet, definitely check it out... this video is also one of the ONLY TV performances he's done!

7) Mixtape

Album: Letters

This is the first song of his that I fell in love with, so beautiful and so sad

8) Ships In A Bottle

Album: Sycamore Meadows

This video follows him as he returns to the ruins of his home after he lost everything in the California wildfires. A perfect fit for the haunting music. "Just wanna walk away from the ashes, And take the fact that I got burned. And baby let you know I'm still standing... if you miss it again, miss it again, I'm around"

Like him, don't like him? Let me know!

Enjoy Butch Walker people!

Rock on!

- Girl At The Rock Show