The Sickest Party on a Wednesday Night Nosaj Thing at Low End Theory

As my first time experiencing Los Angeles, I had to include checking out Low End Theory. It takes place every Wednesday night at the Airliner in Lincoln Heights, and is legendarily known as the main live hub that kick started the careers of Flying Lotus, Teebs, Tokimonsta, Samiyam, Daedelus and many other talented hip-hop, experimental electronic music producers of today from LA.

My friend and I got to the venue a little late, which we immediately regretted after seeing a lineup that ran around the block. We waited more than half an hour to get in as they let in people slowly throughout the night due to filling up so quickly. The amazing thing was that the lineup kept growing that even when we got in, it was still around the block. Happily, the cover was only $10, which is the standard/maximum cover charge for all their nights, including when Thom Yorke of Radiohead performed his DJ set here.

Once we got in, Great Dane was performing. Personally not being familiar with his music, I was pleasantly surprised to hear some fresh, kick back, minimal beats including a remix of Britney Spears’ Toxic. Apparently it was his first show there and he definitely delivered. Next was Low End Theory founder and resident DJ, Daddy Kev along with resident emcee, Nocando. They both kept the party bumpin’ with all kinds of hip hop and electronic music, most memorably playing “poppin’ my collar,” which got the whole club swaggin’ out. Nocando freestyled on Daddy Kev’s mix effortlessly, and manned the audience like it was second nature.

When Nosaj Thing hit the stage, everyone rubbed bodies, pushed forward and paid undivided attention. The music was so infectious, that I caught myself dancing without even noticing. The response he was getting was incredible, the energy was high and the bass was soul deep, what more could you ask for?

During all the performances there were visuals behind the DJ’s playing colorful, random clips, or slideshows accompanied by a flying representation of the frequency spectrum. The PA system, and room sounded tight, crisp and clear. In terms of the venue itself, it reminded me of dingy dives in Vancouver that I’d go to, so it was very homey and inviting; even the neighborhood was slightly sketchy. This night was perhaps over capacitated with the main floor filled to the brim and fuming with sweaty people dancing. The atmosphere, vibe, and the positivity of everyone that was there was beautiful, and I’d definitely revisit in a heartbeat and experience it again! From the doorman, security to the bartenders, they were all very nice and friendly. Being a fan of the LA beat-music scene, and finally seeing it in person was a satisfying experience in a very authentic way; much like witnessing Johann Strauss II in Vienna, or early 80’s Metallica in the Bay Area thrash scene. Most importantly, it was great to see local, experimental and underground music being accepted on such a popular level.

- BAG -

Look For Teebs Album Review, news, music and More In Vandalas June Magazine OUT JUNE FIRST  

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Video Wednesday - Lana Talks Nerdy

So I’m the type of gal who sometimes likes to kick back with a brew and some Super Mario Bros. Most of you out there have probably beat the game as many times as me, but still can’t shake the Mario. So when I came across this video, I just couldn’t resist. Now I am aware that Radiohead is not indie, but Quinton Sung is, so far. Quinton Sung, from Hong Kong, has been the talk of the internet. He has re-composed two Radiohead albums (Kid A, and OK Computer) using entirely 8-bit chiptune technology. I swear you’ll see characters from Zelda or Final Fantasy dancing around in your head as you listen. My personal favorite is Paranoid Android from Ok Computer, which undeniably sounds like it from a video game, complete with crumbling bricks sounds and coins. I was a little skeptical when I heard about this album, but I am a convert. Sung is clearly a very talented electronic musician. Yeah, so it’s a little nerdy, but aren’t we all in some way? This album is only available so far on YouTube.com so check it out. I just have one last note: Music gods please feel free to replace dubstep with this.

- Lana Nimmons -

www.vandala.ca

SCYTHIA Come To The Rescue For Richmond Animal Protection Society

Canada’s masters and wizards of folk-progressive metal fusion, Scythia, have set aside their time hunting trolls and have come to the rescue of the Richmond Animal Protection Society for a benefit concert to help raise funds for the RAPS two animal shelters in dire need of supplies (wishlist).

“Scythia is stoked to rock out for an honorable cause like animals.  A huge inspiration for our breed of folk metal is having a symbiosis with animals and nature… Especially bears, but dogs and cats are awesome as well.  We are also stoked about the killer line up, we have played with all of these bands before and believe that each and every band on this bill are top notch musicians capable of delivering incredible performances.” comments Scythia’s vocalist/ guitarist Dave Khan.

With support from local Vancouver speed thrash metal titans Cradle To Grave, power metallers Aeterna and Nanaimo, BC’s Viking warriors Eye of Odin, Scythia along with event organizer and Oboe of death player Morgan Zentner of Aesir Promotions are conquering higher ground for this great cause to help our furry companions in their time of need.

“As the promoter and creator of this event, I am proud to say that Aesir Promotions will be putting on a show to help support such a worthy cause. As an animal owner and lover, I feel that abandoned pets are easily over looked and I was very happy to find the Richmond Animal Protection Society, which is a no kill shelter.” says Morgan Zentner, “We have support from bands all over BC and Alberta donating merch for raffle prizes and the support from the metal community in Vancouver has been fantastic. All of the performers for the show are of high caliber and we are all looking forward to helping out our furry friends.”

Also for your viewing pleasure! One of Vancouver’s best belly dancers, the radiant Mahafsoun will be joining Scythia on stage for a memorable performance.

Show Details

Date: Saturday, June 2, 2012

Venue: The Astoria, 769 East Hastings

Time: 8pm

Cost: $12 or $10 with donated item

Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/330164173709449/

Bands: Scythia, Cradel To Grave, Aeterna, Eye of Odin

RAPS wish list:

- Good Quality Cat Food (Wet and Dry)

- Towels and Blankets

- Laundry Soap

- Cleaning Supplies

- Arm & Hammer Litter Freshener

- Paper Towels

- Frebreeze Mr. Clean

- Orijen kibble for cats and dogs

- EVO canned food for dogs

- Natural Balance canned food for dogs

- GO! canned food for dogs

- Wild Salmon Oils

- Pill Pockets

Scythia Music 

Free Download – For The King – 

http://scythia.bandcamp.com/track/for-the-king-free-download

Free Download – Voice of The Sword –

http://scythia.bandcamp.com/track/voice-of-the-sword-free-download

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Deeanna Danger Brings you Metal with Crimson Shadows

Crimson Shadows are an amalgamation of aggressive vocals with melodic guitar harmonies and solos, in the realm of death and power metal. Hailing  from Toronto, the band is Jimi Maltais on vocals, Ryan Hofing on guitar, Greg Rounding on guitar and vocals and Blake Murphy on bass.

Galloping riffs meet screams and growls of vocals, creating a new subgenre in an ever expanding scene. Their music is fantasy themed, self-described as “epic metal”. They have shared the stage with Anvil, a band that is well-known and respected by the likes of top selling bands such as Metallica. Unleash the Archers, Holy Grail, and Echoes of Eternity also shared the same bill. Their manager is Toronto based Rich Gaggi of Blacktooth Entertainment. Rich knows how to put together great shows, recognizing talent when he sees it.

Operation Metal Storm is one of the tours they embarked on; a 10 day adventure through Scarborough to Timmins. Their tour schedule is expanding after being signed with Nova Scotia based label, Spread the Metal Records! They will make a stop in Windsor, Ontario June 9 and Halifax, Nova Scotia, July 6th for the Spread the Metal Festival.

Their music video release “Lost in a Dark Forest” was created with Ax Media. Check out the video

For more information, show times, and music releases, check out their
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/CrimsonShadowsBand and
ReverbNation: http://www.reverbnation.com/crimsonshadows

Deeanna Danger

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Free Music Thursday - Metal to Reggae

Rise to Remain - "Heartless"

The album cover says so much.  The song “heartless” is a mixture of tough guitars, pounding drums,  heavy metal grunting. Then in all of this  you have a set of vocals that are so clean and clear; it gives the song great medley. Some may even say this band has a touch of Lamb of God and Pantera.  Overall this is a great song.  "Heartless" is one of four additional tracks the band has recorded for inclusion in the US version of their debut release City Of Vultures, which hits stores across in America on June 5. Download the song at  www.risetoremain.com/heartless

Stone Iris "Hide and Seek"

You have those artists who fit into a mould and can be classified easily then there are those creating their own genre. With a fusion of Blues, Rock, Funk, and Reggae you get what is called the “Stone Iris” sound. Not only is this bands sound one of a kind their lyrics are illusive but clear in meaning all at that same time. Their songs hit you with pure clarity and personal meaning is reached.

Not only is this band creative they have the sound of a genre that is not as common in North America, with a touch of Lucky Dube and Barrington Levy you feel essence of roots reggae. This subgenre deals with the everyday lives and aspirations of the artists concerned, and where music has meaning in every word as does Stone Iris` Music. Check out the song  “Hide and Seek “ off their new album  "Illuminations" that was released in Mid-May on Kamelcorn Records . Download the song at http://ashermedia.bandcamp.com/track/stone-iris-hide-and-seek

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Video Wednesday - Bob Wayne Works Hard, Really its take A lot.

At first I thought this was a comedy piece but hale and behold it’s both serious and funny.  The intro is a hilarious way to lead to a interview, which I loved it. He talks about how he got where he is and his new album ; you may not like his music or you may love it but not matter what he works non-stop . This is a guy who has lived on the road and lived for his music.  312 shows  just over a year - He left October 2010 and back home  December 27, 2011 that equals 17 countries THEN he started to record right away. Trust yourself work hard and DIY since no one else will get you to your goal without you  yourself working hard.  There is never an easy way to get to your goals. 

Check His New Album Out @ www.bobwayne.org

- MCL -

http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/

Garbage Gone Indie

Tuesdays are when I normally review a band from the inbox, but this past week some interesting news came across my feed reader concerning Garbage.

If you were a teen in the ‘90 you will remember Garbage as dark and grungy, and you could never forget that hot scott, Shirley Manson. They won MTV’s breakthrough artist in 1996 with their self titled debut album, selling nearly 4.4 million copies. In 1998 they released Version 2.0, which matched sales and was nominated for several grammys and lead them to being featured in the intro of the James Bond movie The World is not Enough. Numbers dropped with their third album Beautiful Garbage, but despite their low sales and bad reviews they still were in Rolling Stone’s top 10 albums of the year (hmmm, makes you think). In 2005 they released their fourth album, Bleed like Me which reached #4 on the charts.

Mysteriously enough, mid-way through their tour they announced they were going on an indefinite hiatus. They said they were not breaking up, but they wanted to pursue different interest. Seven years later this, all became clear when, in an interview with Marc Spitz from Vanity Fair, Manson said “I had a collection of songs that I thought were really strong. I took them in [and] played them for the record company. They weren’t interested. They told me they were too dark. They wanted me to have international radio hits and ‘be the Annie Lennox of my generation.’ I kid you not; I am quoting directly. I just thought, Fuck this.”

On January 23rd, 2012 in an interview with Jillian Mapes for Vulture, Garbage announced that they now had their own indie label, STUNVOLUME: “I was sick of being treated so poorly [by major labels], like a sloppy plate of mashed potatoes and peas. We're done with that. I think record companies treat artists in a very careless fashion, and as a result, the public feels careless toward artists now.

When a major label works at its absolute best, there's no other system like it to push a career into the stratosphere. But that system is not for everybody. There's a whole slew of artists that are making incredible music that just don't enjoy that kind of support because they just can’t tolerate the beast on a moral, political ready. We lose out on what I call the “fragile artists.” It's all the strong, genetically well-bred people who rise to the top, even in music. All the freaks and the geeks get thrown into the streets and forgotten about. I look back at all the great artists that I fell in love with, people like Iggy Pop, David Bowie, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Patti Smith — all of these people would never have had careers in this kind of climate.

This lead up to a May 14, 2012 release of their new album, Not your kind of People which is available on ITunes, or in store on vinyl. In the true spirit of Garbage, it is dark, grungy, hip and sexy as all hell. If you want a sneak peek, check out Blood for Poppies below:

This information came to me at an interesting point this week. I was going through artists I enjoyed quite a bit that were being promoted as “indie”, but were in fact signed by major labels. Out of frustration, I was going to write an article about how bands signed by major labels are co-opting the term to gain a wider audience. It comes as no surprise, but indie music is slowly kicking signed bands off the charts, and I’m pretty sure the labels are not very impressed.

Garbage is a perfect example of why I support indie artists. Don’t get me wrong: I have nothing again bands wanting to be signed -- it’s just not meant for everyone. If you want artistic freedom, learn from Garbage’s experience. Stay indie. Check Out Garbage at http://garbage.com/

- Lana Nimmons -

You Want More Indie Music 

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Shawn Hook has his First Canadian Album Release.

EMI signed Shawn Hook has his first Canadian album release. Cosmonaut and the Girl is smouldering hot, just like the CMW performance I attended and reviewed in March. Hook is a fun, friendly performer, who literally sets the stage on fire with his talent, song writing and performing abilities. He knows how to make an audience feel at home. This is an impressive first release with such potential; I am expecting him to do as well as Canadian artists that are not near as talented or amazing on stage.

Shawn Hook’s intensity, passion and talent shine through in “Fool”, the beautiful power ballad. Similar to Bruno Mars and the hit single “Too Late to Apologize” from Timbaland and OneRebublic, this is the track that caught Jon Levine’s attention. Levine is a sought after musician, formerly a main song writer and bassist for the band Philosopher Kings, and a producer who has helped shape pop artists such as Nelly Furtado. He heard Hook live and saw potential, producing this promising pop album.

“Rockstaria” plays in my iphone as I saw him live. A killer band backs him with a sexy guitar solo, matching Shawn's blazing vocals. Choirs sing on this track, they need to; I feel like a sinner just listening. Falsetto notes meet strong sensual vocals and lyrics. A catchy chorus calls on rock star, summer love; “You make me wanna trash cars... Living like we're on the run."“Planet Earth” and “One Life”, along with “Dirty Little War” that played on Showtimes’ Shameless are optimistic yet questioning at once. The lyrics expect more from humanity than what we express.

Hook’s first album is just a glimpse into what we can expect from a talent that has the potential to take the world by storm. The music industry is difficult to navigate but with this type of talent; an artist that plays guitar and keyboard, and puts on an incredible live show, I think he can make it with the likes of the big name major label artists I mentioned. I just hope his music, message, and talent move forward with the right hands. Send this music to Clive Davis and he will get the recognition and exposure he deserves.

- Deeanna Danger -

Check out my review of Shawn Hook during Canadian Music Week with Vandala Ezine, March’s issue, page 42: http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_e-zine.html

Live Music Friday - May 18 - May 21, 2012

Its Friday and A Long Weekend. Yay for some. Those who have to work like myself Check out yesterdays blog and grab some free music and rock out to for the weekend. But if you’re not going camping check out a live show. Venues are paying less booking agents are working hard. Then you have bands who are giving it all for very little pay so show your support and have a great night with some amazing bands .

Friday, May 18, 2012

Hour Of Penance @ Starlite Room, Edmonton, AB

Stone Iris @ The Valley Zoo, Hinton, AB

The Meatmen @ Katacombes, Montreal, QC

Dinbrad, Wolven Ancestry, The Way Of Purity, Eclips Eternal @ The Ranch, Arlington, TX

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Margot & The Nuclear So And Sos, Whispertown @ The Media Club, Vancouver, BC

Lapalux @ The Bakery, Perth, Australia

Saint Alvia @ Foufounes Electriques, Montreal, QC

Die Mannequin @ Queen'S Hotel, Nanaimo, BC

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Ghetto Blaster @ L'Absynthe, Montreal, QC

Steve Kimock @ Old Rock House, St. Louis, MO

Hey Sugar @ Underworld, Montreal, QC

Dearly Beloved @ Club 9one9, Victoria, BC

Nasum @ Wreck Room, Toronto. ON

Monday, May 21, 2012

George Thorogood @ Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, Calgary, AB

Dinbrad, Wolven Ancestry, @ Siberia, New Orleans, LA

Petunia @ Company House, Halifax, NS

Aborted @ Hard Luck Bar, Toronto, ON

MORE EVENTS @ http://vandalaconcepts.com/vandala_concepts_concert_listings.html

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Free Music Thursdays: Prepare to be Thunderstruck

We Did not forget about our fans and Free music Thursday. We have so many things in store for our fans! But for now here is some free music.

No Place for Heroes “Kill Da Disco”

Originally known as Paradise Scream, No Place for Heroes is a parisian rock band with the energy and power of a metal band. This band consists of Will “The Mad” (Guitar and vocals), Emile “The Duke” (bass & back vocals), Germain “The Smart” (drums), and this year they announced a new lead guitarist from Quebec, Oliver L’Heureux. Their new release “Kill Da Disco” is now available as a free download. The song is like rock on metal with drums like a jackhammer of energy, raunchy guitars, thundering bass lines, and vocals that play fast and loose. This song is so energetic that it’s giving me images of speeding on the autobahn.

Download Here - http://puregrainaudio.com/audio/no-place-for-heroes-kill-da-disco-free-download

Project Mars “Don’t Hold Back”

This Canadian trio is based in Ottawa, Ontario. These guys met working in a restaurant where they realized they all had the same passion for creating great rock. They’ve had their ups and downs, like all bands, but boy we are happy they recently returned from a three year hiatus. Project Mars does not hold back with a wave of pure rock in Don’t Hold Back. The epic guitars wail, and the band tugs us along with their fast drums and earthquaking bass. Besides kicking ass with their new hot release, they’re also trying to raise awareness and funds for research for multiple sclerosis: WE SALUTE YOU! 

Download Here:http://puregrainaudio.com/audio/project-mars-don-t-hold-back-free-download

- Lana Nimmons -

More Great Music in Vandala Magazine 

{free online} http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/

Video Wednesday – Film Music

Today Expanding to other areas is very important such as TV and Film be it a band is on a soundtrack or has a video that is like a short film either way diversity is important for exposure. Todays videos are both interesting and integrate film in to their music. 

Drunksouls -  Human Race

You cannot help but watch this video. Music is very French and the actual video in one word is "crazy". The song human race is merging the poetic music of Drunksouls and death defying achievements of Skyliners. The Film “I BELIEVE I CAN FLY (the flight of the frenchies)” won  Grand Prize of Adventure Film Festival of La Rochelle, Jury's Award Winner of International Vancouver Film Festival. Thus Drunksouls being on the soundtrack gains them  great exposure most of all you cannot help like the song because of the video.  Just watch, you will be in awe and have the song grow on you.

Air Bag One - Whatever You Want

Another interesting music video, very European and a film in its self though one that you really have to watch. The love story is very obvious in the video and you have to watch the whole video to really understand what is going on. But that is the beauty of this video it keeps you watching and goes all out to get you really watching otherwise you get lost just like any good film.

- MCL -

More Reviews, Music and Interviews 

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Out of the In Box - K.C. Jockey: Livinin Love

J.C. Jockey is many things, he is charming,  a musician, a model, an actor and owns his own record label (Sweet Sadie’s Productions). Even with all these things going on in his life he takes all his spare time to volunteers for several charities. When he was a young man living in New York J.C Jockey started hustling luxury items on the streets to try and reach a first class lifestyle he was exposed to. After the personal tragedy of his mother’s death, he started to investing his energy into what he was born to do: creating soulful music. He is an inspiration that if you work hard instead of taking the easy way out, you will not only find success, but spiritual rewards.

This Jamaican born, New York raised artist will certainly put a smile on your face, with his warming lyrics and addictive beats with Livinin Love. This song’s is a cross between reggae and R&B. It will make you feel although you are in love again; with someone, life, everything. This track will be available on iTunes May 17th, go check it out.

For Music from KC visit http://www.kcjockey.com/

Read  full article on KC Jockey in Vandala Magazine - http://www.vandalaconcepts.com/

- Lana Nimmons -

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Zakk Wylde’s is Bringing Metal to the Children

Bringing Metal to the Children:The Complete Berzerker's Guide to World Tour Domination is Zakk Wylde’s touring guide for bands. Rife with personal stories from the road more lewd than one could ever imagine, this read will make even the most metal of metalheads grossed out.

Zakk Wylde is the heavy metal guitarist who played with Ozzy Osbourne, specifically during the "No More Tears Tour" in the early nineties. The album of the same name contains several hit singles, including the radio-friendly "Mama I'm Coming Home". The contributions of guitar and song writing from Wylde, along with lyrics from Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead, made this one of Ozzy’s most epic albums and tours. Wylde went on to form the band Black Label Society. In a span of twenty five years Wylde recorded 6 albums with Ozzy, 8 with Black Label Society, a solo project called Book of Shadows, and a Pride and Glory release.

"Viking", Zakk Wilde is a musician who declares to know how to "get it f*cking done". Bringing Metal to the Children is filled with life mantras and advice for bands looking to get noticed; "play what you love and what moves you."

Bringing Metal to the Children is a cringe-inducing, difficult read. Filled with profanities, stories of defecation, groupies, and descriptive sex with his wife, fifteen minutes a reading is best. Zakk even goes so far as to advise readers how to treat the wife while on tour. Don’t cheat, buy her sex toys, and satisfy her mercilessly like you do your fans. As for eating on the road, smell everything first.

Fans of Zakk Wylde or Ozzy Osbourne may get through this for the random memories of Zakk’s time with Ozzy and tidbits shared about Zakk’s life. Wylde believes in Christ and references his church going, god fearing ways throughout. There's a picture of him kneeling on the front steps of a church in Winnipeg, Canada. While on tour, he could not find any churches open, so he prayed outside in minus thirty degree weather. Zakk’s fans are loved and respected, known as "fams" and Berzerkers. Wylde considers them part of his extended family and spends time with them in every town he passes through.

Not written for the faint of heart or stomach, Bringing Metal to the Children will upheave any metal fan’s corn flakes and give them a look at the unexpected side of Wylde’s life. Adult themed with a strong masculine tone, it does what it was meant to do, scare off children and literature majors.

- Deeanna Danger - 

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Live Music Friday - May 11 - May 13, 2012

Busy weekend, festival and tour season is fully 

upon us so check out some live music.

Friday, May 11, 2012

The Black Keys with Arctic Monkeys @ Scotiabank Saddledome, , Calgary, AB

Coldplay @ Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary, AB

Scythia @ The Vent, Coaldale, AB

West Of Hell, The Catalyst  @ Underworld, Montreal, QC

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Steve Kimock @ Port City Music Hall, Portland, ME

All Else Fails, Cast Into Ashes, Scythia 

@ The Riverfront, Grindrod, BC

Tribune, Self Collapse + Guests @ Frite Alors, Montreal, QC

The New Jacob Club @ The Fez, Saskatoon, SK

West Of Hell, Phantom + Guests 

@ The Hard Luck Bar, Toronto, ON

Dinbrad, Wolven Ancestry, The Way Of Purity, Eclips Eternal 

@ The Ruby Room, San Diego, CA

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Rammstein @ Rogers Arena, Vancouver, BC

Kittie @ Peabody’s, Cleveland, OH

The Boxer Rebellion, Canon Blue 

@ The Biltmore, Vancouver, BC

Stone Iris @ Cuppa Joy Coffee House, Vancouver, BC

For More Events 

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Free Thursday- Get you moving for this Weekend

Dollaz Da Deejay “For my City” (Rap)

Dollaz wrote this song as mad props to his hometown Toronto with For my City. He raises the bar with his undeniably addictive beats, smooth as butter voice, and catchy lyrics. This song will not leave your head, and will carry you out though to to the weekend. When you’ve had a hard week and it’s time to blow off some steam, you’ll be craving to hear Dollaz as you hit the clubs. Dallaz for Deejay’s “For my City” will set your body free into that summer grind. If you’re hooked like me, make sure to check out full five track EP.

http://www.numba1deejay.com/

WEAZ aka HUITZILOPOCHTLI  “Life goes on” Feat. Rachelle (Latin/Rap)

WEAZ’s music tell a story of a young man from Mexico who moved to Holly Park, West Seattle at the age of eight with his family. He was surrounded by drugs and gangs, and has had many near death experiences. This guy is hard working and inspiring which becomes very evident when you listen to his tracks. “Life goes On”, for example, is an incredible song about loss of a person that was very close to him. An urban poet, WEAZ honors his influences (like Tupac) with his hard driven passion to create awe inspiring hardcore rap as he creates a union between heavy beats, raw vocals and grieving lyrics.

http://www.reverbnation.com/huiziloposli

- Lana Nimmons - 

WANT MORE MUSIC

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Politics, Music and Celebrities – Has It Gone Wrong Today?

I’m back. I really never left just have been more behind the scenes. Honestly I got sick of the TV, media, and all other mainstream crap out there. I am a freelance writer full time not only for Vandala but many places, I write about many topics though politics has been my claim to fame. Though over the years many topics have clashed.  Today; Politics and musical acts or even entertainment  stars on the same stage(s) are conflicting thoughts. Do not worry I will not bore you with my typical normal editorial bore. I save that for the Globe and Mail under my other pen name.

More and more stars are getting involved in politics. At one time many started and got involved in the campaign to get the younger generation to vote. I do understand all to very well the percentage of the population that actually votes is low. Though the thought has been let the educated people vote, and well there are fewer these days. This is a generation that 40 year old women  scream over Justin Beiber, Reality TV is a way of life/young peoples  goal, sexuality is about showing it all, a lot of protestors are jobless people who are avoiding looking for a job,  and mainstream entertainment has little meaning.  Thus educated people who look at the facts are becoming less and less. Instead you have a generation that falls for the politician that has the biggest stars, in essence the high school election all over again. Now  I hear those nasty words already, but think about it.

Through commercials, college campus visits and concerts, appearances at political rallies celebrities like P. Diddy, Christina Aguilera and Kanye West increased voter awareness. Oprah, George Clooney, and other big names are in the political spot light as well. While I appreciate the stars saying something should they? Who is actually listening to the words they are saying? The younger generation does not look any smarter and listens to crap, “teen mom” “Kim Kardasian” music all about nothing. The line between the celebrity and the facts is a blurred one. Few like Alec Baldwin lobby for federal funding for the arts, or others who are saying very important things. Instead for younger voters it’s about who is hot right now and not what is important to our futures.

My point is “Are people being fooled by the glam?” “Are they listening?” Personally I think with what is in the mainstream, chances are “no one is home”. Some stars are talking and making points while others are there out of self interest, such as publicity for their career but either way not many voters are looking at the facts. I see it all over "faceBOOB" about the complaining about the politicians in power, which is proof that looking at the facts is non-existent in the younger voter population. Does anyone realize the mess that politicians are cleaning up? Or the fact your pensions are becoming myth. Again too many Clueless ! Sadly these young people look like morons because for one they have no idea what has happened over t he last  10 years or past politicians. I see this metaphor - They have lived off daddies credit card and have no clue that daddy is broke or how daddy ended up in the gutter. Instead they blame the current politicians (financial planners) who are trying to do something about it to make sure the whiners have a economy, so  just like the budget planner who becomes the bad guy.   Mind you a good chunk are so worried about the pot issues and other stupid issues. Who cares about you getting high, go back to your basements since that is irrelevant topic.

So yes there are more voters due to celebrity but is it really a good idea? My grandparents quizzed me on basic facts before he let me vote. Yes a little extreme but they grew up in a time that voting was a privilege. Think about that.

- MCL -

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Video Wednesday - Retro Gems

My personal favorite is The 13th Floor Elevators’ You’re Gonna Miss Me, which by the way is a very cool song. They use an amazing array of instruments like the electric jug and cowbell, and not ironically like most modern bands. Filmed live by a pool side sometime in the sixties, if this had been in color, you would swear you were looking at a bunch of modern hipsters. Roky Erikson, the lead singer, sports a lumberjack and tight jeans, and the rest of the band wear petticoats and jeans. The audience appears to have come right of a Urban Outfitters shop (I guess we know what era their clothes are from). If you’re wondering where you’ve heard this song, the answer would be the film High Fidelity. In the first scene, after John Cusack’s girlfriend leaves, this is the song he blasts. If you haven’t seen the movie, you would: there are a lot of and has an amazing soundtrack and who wouldn’t like a movie that revolves around a record shop/ torn relationships? 

Another great Sonics video/song is Strychnine. Through the last three decades, there have been many arguments over who started punk. Was it the Sex Pistols? The Ramones? Well I would argue, vehemently, that in 1960, The Sonics were probably one of the first in this movement. I love this song -- it’s like electrified swing on speed.

 

My brother-in-law is actually the one who introduced me to these guys almost a decade ago. It was my birthday, and he always made me a mix CD. This year’s had “This sounds amazing- are these the White Stripes?” scrawled on it. It contained songs from The Stooges, The Yardbirds, 13th Floor Elevators (see my last post), The Violent Femmes, and a few other retro indie rock pieces.

- Lana Nimmons - 

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Out of the Inbox - Barricades Rise "You and Your Adored"

Without sounding too crazy, I love music that is upbeat contrasted with verse that is dark, reflective and almost animalistic. Barricades Rise’s You and Your Adored is about the journey and inner turmoil of a breakup. The album’s lyrics are relatable and insightful, using instrumentals that will pull and tug on your heart strings while manifesting a state of reflection .  

The album kicks off with This Creation, a heartfelt song with a gut wrenching narrative. The best analogy for this song is that you’re at the end of a cliff, your heart is beating hard, your stomach is sinking, and you know its time but there’s a resistance. The bass in this track is almost angry with its deep and hard plucking, and the guitar riffs drive you right into their evocative vocals.

This Creation then pushes right into their second track Aftermath, which is about the aftermath of a breakup. They allude to the story about how people try to be helpful by telling you that it will get easier, but it only feels like it’s getting harder and harder. Within everyone who would be going through this, there is a fire ignited, there’s a struggle between optimism and sadness which will cause inevitable anger.

The third track, Sleepwalker, is a rebellious song about how when it’s all said and done, you start to go a little nuts and you do things you would never have done before. Some of this is good, some bad, nevertheless it is liberating.

I could go on about this album and tell you about the transitions and analogies Barricade Rise uses, but you should check it out. I could say this album is like Kubler Ross’ stages of grief meets Mumford and Sons indie folk rock. Jonathan Coates and Michael McEntee have been playing together for fifteen years, which is more than apparent when you listen to how well put together this emotive acoustic rock album is.

Check These Guys Out @ 

http://barricadesrise.bandcamp.com/album/you-and-your-adored

- Lana Nimmons -

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Deeanna's Personal Experiences With Sexism in the Music Industry

Parental Advisory Explicit Content 

I have a background writing, singing, performing and recording pop songs in the music industry. My focus for this piece is a short look at my personal experiences dealing with sexism in the business. A summarized description reveals comments about my looks over my music, attending music events where women were hired for the sole purpose of men’s "entertainment", and a lingo consisting of "no d*cks just chicks" for so called industry parties.

Though my experiences alienated me, making me sad and quite angry, I did not wallow in misery or simmer in anger for long. I went back to University and studied women and gender studies and English literature. Here I met peers and professors who not only believed in equality and respect for all human beings, but wrote, researched, read, and practiced what they learned and taught. This, along with English literature and the new interest I developed in heavy metal, changed my life dramatically. At this time in my life I was introduced to Ronnie James Dio who wrote of magic, Megadeth who wrote of political corruption and Iron Maiden who took references from English literature and applied it to songs. Rarely did I experience the same discrimination with such greatness around me. Eventually I started writing about music and the best of all worlds made me the most fulfilled I have ever been.

This is not to say I never experience sexism being a female writer. I get tons of respect covering bands and artists I believe in. Crystal always has my back with any part of the business she guides me to. I still come across situations that are very similar to what I experienced as a singer. Like this story for example: I was spending time with friends when it came up we mutually knew someone. This person we know is a celebrity/musician hanger-on who has thrown parties and attended events in the city. I asked my friend to enquire about passes for a specific show with intent to interview/feature an artist that was performing. I told my friend to tell him (let’s call him Tommy) I am a published writer willing to pay for the passes. I had nothing to lose, and if anything, I could learn something for next time.

When I talked to Tommy on the phone he asked what I was looking for. I told him backstage passes with intent to feature "so and so" artist. He said, "do you suck d*ck?". I said "no, I do not." I told him I was a published writer who would gladly pay for the tickets if he had access to them. He said, "You want backstage passes and you don’t suck d*ck? But you're a chick." I told him again that I am a published writer who has written for the Globe and Mail and working for Vandala Concepts, an independent e-zine. He said, "male writers will be there covering the show, and if you’re a chick looking to go backstage, you need to be willing to give the guys something they want, like sucking d*ck." I specified again that I had no interest; I am not a groupie and just looking to write. We chatted casually while he name dropped. By the end of the conversation he told me he doubted he could get me tickets because they were too hard to get. He never did get me tickets and he never got them for himself either. Even if he did get them for me I would not have taken them.

I told a few of my friends this story. They know my background in singing, writing, and even women and gender studies. Their reaction was disgust and anger, with surprise I didn’t react the same way. My past experiences in the industry makes it hard to be shocked or even angry.

The great thing about this story is that I did get backstage passes (for free) and an interview with a well known artist. I got the passes and the interview because of my writing. It had nothing to do with being a "chick" and offering sexual favors to dudes.

To everyone in the industry that experiences any form of bull sh*t or discrimination: stay true to your beliefs no matter what. Things work out as they are meant to when you stay true to your vision. 

Live Music Friday - May 4th - May 6th

Friday, May 4, 2012

Derelict, Nephelium 

@ Hard Luck Bar, Toronto, ON

Tribune 

@ Pick Wick Pub, Poughkeepsie, NY

All Else Fails, Quartered, Stella, TBC 

@ The Tunnel, Vancouver, BC

Unleash The Archers 

@ UVIC, Victoria, BC

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Dauwd 

@ Sound:Frame Festival, Vienna, Austria

All Else Fails, Dead Eyes Open, Synapse 

@ Char’s Landing, Port Alberni, BC

Stone Iris 

@ The Double Decker Tavern, Brandon, MB

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Rammstein 

@ The Palace of Auburn Hills, Detroit, MI

Kittie 

@ Clicks, Tyler, OK

EOTO, Kraddy 

@ Will Rogers Theater, Oklahoma City, OK

Tribune 

@ Bogie’s, Albany, NY

MORE EVENTS @ 

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