The 2nd annual SOS (Sounds of Old Strathcona) Festival is about to take place on July 9.
Edmonton's known as festival city, but I have a bit of an issue with this particualr one. Nothing terribly bad, but after all the complaints and/or jokes about "Deadmonton"...it's hard to wonder why the city can't have nice things when there is no one showing up to support them!
Last year, the first SOS fest, was 3 days long; it spanned from July 8-10. The festival included 100 artists at over 20 venues around the Strathcona area. But this year, because of lack of visitors and also due to lack of government funding the festivals organizers have had to "condense" the event to a single day, July 10, from noon-7pm.
It's sad to see such a great event, which not only showcases new and local music, but also was free to attend, get trimmed down after just one year. I personally know of many people that constantly and consistently ask why Edmonton doesn't have MORE events, MORE "good" music festivals, and just more to do. And this is exactly why! It's because no one seems to appreciate what we have, and what we've already been given. I'm sure that the people that do tend to be more "vocal" to their friends and co-workers about how "lame" the city is, know about the festival and know that it's been cut down to 9% of it's original size, yet I'm sure they're the same ones who'd be either sitting at home or getting drunk at some random bar meanwhile. Maybe it's time that we stop taking such amazing festivals and shows for granted, and take pride in our own city.
This year's SOS Fest will take place July 10, from 12noon-7pm. It'll be on Whyte Ave (which will be temporarily closed), between 103 and 105 ST. It's a fun time for all ages and includes not only the musical acts, 9 in total on two different stages, but also vendors and activities. Bands include, Scenic Route To Alaska, The Dudes, The Pack a.d. and Wool On Wolves (seriously, a great line up).
Please go out and support SOS, because, at this rate, who knows if we'll even get it back next summer!
--More info at www.sosfest.ca
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
Sonic Boom Numero 3
Each year since 2009 Sonic 102.9 has been hosting a giant party for your eyes and ears also known as a music festival at the Northlands Grounds.
The official line-up for Sonic Boom 2011 was announced today:
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Theory of Hipster Relativity
While you're waiting on your lunch that's warming in the microwave, your room mate to get out of the shower, that album that is taking its sweet time to up and/or download or just generally trying to procrastinate life why not enjoy a little webcomic goodness (my apologies for the size; if I include the original size the right side gets cut off...click on the link below the comic!) :
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Sloan celebrates 20 years of Canadiana
"Alternative Rock" band Sloan celebrates their 20th birthday this year by touring and releasing their new album The Double Cross. The band from Halifax has released over 10 albums since their start in 1991, and show no sign of slowing down!
Unfortunately I didn't get to see their performance in Edmonton on May 31st, since I was just heading back from the Sasquatch Festival in Washington the same day. However thanks to the wonders of the internet and tour dates I was able to find out that they were going to be playing down south, in Calgary, on June 1st. So, in yet another venue, I was able to see Sloan again. This time the show was at the Republik on 17th Ave. Apparently it's a pretty popular nightlife street, and also one of the venues Sloan played during their first ever tour!
The Republik is pretty small, but I would say it's more intimate than anything, which is great for Sloan's sound and the personality of the songs and band members. As usual they put on a great show, with fan favourite songs from their many albums during the years. I was able to walk away with the set list and can tell you they rocked out in record time with 24 songs in about an hour and half! There were the "regular" sing-along staples, such as "Who Taught You to Live Like That?", "Rest of My Life", and "Losing California", as well as most of the songs from their newest album on the list.
Every member of the band sings and writes, which I feel has only helped their variety and longevity. When usual drummer, Andrew Scott, takes the lead vocals on such songs as "She's Slowing Down" and "Sinking Ships", "frontman" Chris Murphy takes a seat behind the drums (I don't like using the term frontman for this band since each member contributes equally to the all-around-sound). It's great to see a band that isn't afraid to experiment (and even better when they've been playing for so long, and still seem to love playing bars and small venues).
It's tough to say anything about Sloan's shows, as they always play from their most recent album, as well as older songs (since their repertoire can go on and on). But really they put on such a great live show that they've kept me coming back 4 times, and will have many more to come.
One thing I do want to mention was about the venue...and how the many amps in such a small venue made it feel like my ears were about to bleed. And not in the good way. You know, how they say...less is more sometimes? As much as I adore Sloan completely, they could've done with a little less loud. (It sounds hypocritical to say that about any live show, but it just seemed like their talent was being drowned out).
Not sure if you noticed that I didn't mention anything about the opening band, Dearly Beloved, from Toronto. That's because, I'm sorry to say, there was nothing worth mentioning except a band that seemed to thing yelling and adding swear words to every song made it great. Seriously diss pointed, and haven't felt that about any band or live music in a long time!
Unfortunately I didn't get to see their performance in Edmonton on May 31st, since I was just heading back from the Sasquatch Festival in Washington the same day. However thanks to the wonders of the internet and tour dates I was able to find out that they were going to be playing down south, in Calgary, on June 1st. So, in yet another venue, I was able to see Sloan again. This time the show was at the Republik on 17th Ave. Apparently it's a pretty popular nightlife street, and also one of the venues Sloan played during their first ever tour!
The Republik is pretty small, but I would say it's more intimate than anything, which is great for Sloan's sound and the personality of the songs and band members. As usual they put on a great show, with fan favourite songs from their many albums during the years. I was able to walk away with the set list and can tell you they rocked out in record time with 24 songs in about an hour and half! There were the "regular" sing-along staples, such as "Who Taught You to Live Like That?", "Rest of My Life", and "Losing California", as well as most of the songs from their newest album on the list.
Every member of the band sings and writes, which I feel has only helped their variety and longevity. When usual drummer, Andrew Scott, takes the lead vocals on such songs as "She's Slowing Down" and "Sinking Ships", "frontman" Chris Murphy takes a seat behind the drums (I don't like using the term frontman for this band since each member contributes equally to the all-around-sound). It's great to see a band that isn't afraid to experiment (and even better when they've been playing for so long, and still seem to love playing bars and small venues).
It's tough to say anything about Sloan's shows, as they always play from their most recent album, as well as older songs (since their repertoire can go on and on). But really they put on such a great live show that they've kept me coming back 4 times, and will have many more to come.
One thing I do want to mention was about the venue...and how the many amps in such a small venue made it feel like my ears were about to bleed. And not in the good way. You know, how they say...less is more sometimes? As much as I adore Sloan completely, they could've done with a little less loud. (It sounds hypocritical to say that about any live show, but it just seemed like their talent was being drowned out).
Not sure if you noticed that I didn't mention anything about the opening band, Dearly Beloved, from Toronto. That's because, I'm sorry to say, there was nothing worth mentioning except a band that seemed to thing yelling and adding swear words to every song made it great. Seriously diss pointed, and haven't felt that about any band or live music in a long time!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Sasquatch 2011
There were expected to be (and of course are) tons of stories about the Sasquatch Music Festival in the Gorge, Washington to fill stadium...or...amphitheatre. But instead of boring you with the details I'm going to encourage and even support your decision to make it to the festival in 2012. It is most definitely one of the funnest experiences. First let me tell you my personal Sasquatch line-up. Then being the helpful person I try to be, I'll give you some tips and hints for when you're ready to head out on the dusty road to the Gorge.
DeathFromAbove 1979
Foo Fighters - Dave. Grohl. Nuff said. Ok well not enough because I also have to mention that everyone in the band except Taylor Hawkins was wearing different colours of plaid. By accident I'm sure.
Dan Mangan - made me cry <3
J Mascis - of Dinosaur Jr fame
Wye Oak
Iron & Wine
Matt & Kim - was the biggest, funnest, and best dance party ever.
Robyn - Excellent large-stage DJ set
Death Cab for Cutie
The Drums
Fitz & the Tantrums - great modern motown-funk sound
Tokyo Police Club - made me fall even harder for Dave Monks, and realize he's my dream boy
Sam Roberts - circle dancing included at no extra charge. WTF. Thank gosh for my mysterious protector. Played an great set of old and new songs.
Cold War Kids
Flogging Molly
Gayngs - the most mellow and chilled out show of my life
Flaming Lips - giant hamster ball, and giant balloons? Why NOT?
Modest Mouse
Wavves
Young the Giant - It's alright. I don't mind getting a bottle cap to the head as long as it's kicked by the lead singer filled with 1000 apologies.
Old 97's - Oh yeah. I'll also take one guitar pick from the band :)
Chromeo - THE BEST SHOW. Front row, out of over 15000 people. Inflatable balloons and beach balls and what I can only describe as a water-dog as far as my-eye-could-see. Oh and P-Thugg/Dave-1 were pretty great too <3
Guided by Voices
White Denim - Surprise amazing and accidental set from a band I had NEVER heard of.
Foster the People - Is it possible to fit 2000+ people in a space meant for only a few hundred? When Pumped Up Kicks is involved it is.
Rodrigo y Gabriela - Guitar beats beyond comprehension. This is a duo to definitely look into.
Bonobo
Skrillex - Almost died, third row. NBD. I'm FINE guys.
The Decemberists - Had the best finale with "Mariners Revenge", where in the end the whole band died.
Wilco - A great, witty, and sad end to a great weekend
I didn't make a comment on each artist because, well every artist was just great live as I thought they would be. The comments are anything interesting to special that happened to happen! If you are curious about any band/artist in particular please feel free to ask about them (as you know, I could gush for days about a set).
Now, what you've been sitting on the edge of your seat for (well for the past two minutes anyway):
Sasquatch Tips, Tricks, Hints and General Nicecities!:
- Bring a backpack as your carry-all of choice. A purse will not fit enough, and a suitcase/duffel-bag are not only frowned upon but also look like you're trying to smuggle a body.
- Invest in a "CamelBak" or like-designed water carrier. One water bottle may not be enough for the entire day. The water service station usually has a lineup about 40 people+ long at any given time, and the cost of water is ridiculous. Time spent in the water line takes up valuable dancing/meeting people time.
- Speaking of needing water for the whole day...be advised once entering the concert venue area there is NO re-entry for the DAY.
- The concert area is about a 10-15 minute walk from the closer campsites.
- The weather in the Gorge is extremely decieving and almost unpredictable. Except that you can predict it will get blazing hot around 4-7pm, and windy/very chilly and numbing once the sun starts to go down. This is another reason a backpack is a good idea. Wear shorts + tshirt/tanktop + sweater in the morning or afternoon, and bring an extra jacket or pair of pants + gloves for the evening shows.
- Carrots and Sweetpeas are a surprisingly popular snack of choice. Better than chips or candy that dehydrate you. They have natural sugars, are tasty AND won't give you high blood pressure and/or diabetes! Bonus.
- Either get a really good drinking buzz going before you go in the venue, go in to the venue late (and miss artists? What? Well thats up to you), or start saving your money now. Alcohol on-site starts around $8-9 for a beer/"glass" of wine. Sneaking of alcohol is done of course, but it seems like it would be pretty tough. They don't allow in waterbottles that haven't been sealed, unless they're empty (in which case you have to line up at the water station inside after)
- Be prepared to make soe friends. They will unlikely be the life-longers, but it was amzing how nice every person either attending the shows or working as staff were.
- Drugs run rampant. If it's not your scene, be vigilant and don't accept drinks from strangers, no matter how nice or convinving they may be.
- Be prepared to sweat, dance, or be injured if visiting the DJ-heavy stage, the Banana Shack. Especially later at night.
-Extra hint: want to make even more friends? Keep a lighter handy. You may not support smoking, but they'll do it anyway. Might as well make a buddy before they succumb to disease right?
- Also, and maybe most importantly, enjoy the hippie ride of your life that will fill your memory bank with gems.
DeathFromAbove 1979
Foo Fighters - Dave. Grohl. Nuff said. Ok well not enough because I also have to mention that everyone in the band except Taylor Hawkins was wearing different colours of plaid. By accident I'm sure.
Dan Mangan - made me cry <3
J Mascis - of Dinosaur Jr fame
Wye Oak
Iron & Wine
Matt & Kim - was the biggest, funnest, and best dance party ever.
Robyn - Excellent large-stage DJ set
Death Cab for Cutie
The Drums
Fitz & the Tantrums - great modern motown-funk sound
Tokyo Police Club - made me fall even harder for Dave Monks, and realize he's my dream boy
Sam Roberts - circle dancing included at no extra charge. WTF. Thank gosh for my mysterious protector. Played an great set of old and new songs.
Cold War Kids
Flogging Molly
Gayngs - the most mellow and chilled out show of my life
Flaming Lips - giant hamster ball, and giant balloons? Why NOT?
Modest Mouse
Wavves
Young the Giant - It's alright. I don't mind getting a bottle cap to the head as long as it's kicked by the lead singer filled with 1000 apologies.
Old 97's - Oh yeah. I'll also take one guitar pick from the band :)
Chromeo - THE BEST SHOW. Front row, out of over 15000 people. Inflatable balloons and beach balls and what I can only describe as a water-dog as far as my-eye-could-see. Oh and P-Thugg/Dave-1 were pretty great too <3
Guided by Voices
White Denim - Surprise amazing and accidental set from a band I had NEVER heard of.
Foster the People - Is it possible to fit 2000+ people in a space meant for only a few hundred? When Pumped Up Kicks is involved it is.
Rodrigo y Gabriela - Guitar beats beyond comprehension. This is a duo to definitely look into.
Bonobo
Skrillex - Almost died, third row. NBD. I'm FINE guys.
The Decemberists - Had the best finale with "Mariners Revenge", where in the end the whole band died.
Wilco - A great, witty, and sad end to a great weekend
I didn't make a comment on each artist because, well every artist was just great live as I thought they would be. The comments are anything interesting to special that happened to happen! If you are curious about any band/artist in particular please feel free to ask about them (as you know, I could gush for days about a set).
Now, what you've been sitting on the edge of your seat for (well for the past two minutes anyway):
Sasquatch Tips, Tricks, Hints and General Nicecities!:
- Bring a backpack as your carry-all of choice. A purse will not fit enough, and a suitcase/duffel-bag are not only frowned upon but also look like you're trying to smuggle a body.
- Invest in a "CamelBak" or like-designed water carrier. One water bottle may not be enough for the entire day. The water service station usually has a lineup about 40 people+ long at any given time, and the cost of water is ridiculous. Time spent in the water line takes up valuable dancing/meeting people time.
- Speaking of needing water for the whole day...be advised once entering the concert venue area there is NO re-entry for the DAY.
- The concert area is about a 10-15 minute walk from the closer campsites.
- The weather in the Gorge is extremely decieving and almost unpredictable. Except that you can predict it will get blazing hot around 4-7pm, and windy/very chilly and numbing once the sun starts to go down. This is another reason a backpack is a good idea. Wear shorts + tshirt/tanktop + sweater in the morning or afternoon, and bring an extra jacket or pair of pants + gloves for the evening shows.
- Carrots and Sweetpeas are a surprisingly popular snack of choice. Better than chips or candy that dehydrate you. They have natural sugars, are tasty AND won't give you high blood pressure and/or diabetes! Bonus.
- Either get a really good drinking buzz going before you go in the venue, go in to the venue late (and miss artists? What? Well thats up to you), or start saving your money now. Alcohol on-site starts around $8-9 for a beer/"glass" of wine. Sneaking of alcohol is done of course, but it seems like it would be pretty tough. They don't allow in waterbottles that haven't been sealed, unless they're empty (in which case you have to line up at the water station inside after)
- Be prepared to make soe friends. They will unlikely be the life-longers, but it was amzing how nice every person either attending the shows or working as staff were.
- Drugs run rampant. If it's not your scene, be vigilant and don't accept drinks from strangers, no matter how nice or convinving they may be.
- Be prepared to sweat, dance, or be injured if visiting the DJ-heavy stage, the Banana Shack. Especially later at night.
-Extra hint: want to make even more friends? Keep a lighter handy. You may not support smoking, but they'll do it anyway. Might as well make a buddy before they succumb to disease right?
- Also, and maybe most importantly, enjoy the hippie ride of your life that will fill your memory bank with gems.
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