Kentucky Music Hall of Fame (and Museum)

points of interest, a self guided tour.

just past the big old barn dance venue.
front porch vignette

music room interactive exhibits

another voice memo...

PO Box 85, Renfro Valley, KY 40473
www.kentuckymusicmueseum.com

Bob Wiseman

i stand corrected: bob wiseman wears non-leather slip on boots, called vegetarian shoes available at "left feet" in the market.

they look like blundstones. isn't that cool?

he has an interesting blog too. not that we're surprised by THAT
http://godfindscats.blogspot.com/

Jimmy Lafave

that's blaring in my car today is reminding me a lot of the house concert clipping i clipped, quoting the then unknown musical entity. and, i coulda sworn the photo shows a blue-sy guy not a cowboy!

but the songs are good, its nice to finally know...
"i've been running late for so long" etc. etc. etc.

Jimmy Rankin

(Bio)http://www.jimmyrankin.com/jimmy.htm (New album news)http://www.jimmyrankin.com/ Rankin Family reunion:http://www.jimmyrankin.com/press.htm#October_13,_2006

Sarah Harmer

is on the cover of now for the New Year, resolving to Change the World and inspiring the masses...
perhaps the DVD would offsetnot having been able to make it here:
Thursday, November 2 Toronto, ON@Royal Ontario Museum
Planet in Focus: International Environmental Film & Video Festival 7:00 to 9:00 pm
"Escarpment Blues" screening to be followed by 'Preserving Our Greenbelt' Panelwith Sarah Harmer & filmmaker Andy Keen.Co-presented by Greenbelt: Our Living Countryside Sarah Harmer's diary of tour to end quarry mining in the Niagara Escarpment.

*
Escarpment Blues finds Sarah Harmer and her band on their I Love The Escarpment tour along the beautiful Niagara Escarpment. Featuring intimate performances with special guests, candid backstage footage, and interviews that address key issues surrounding Harmer's quest to protect a World Biosphere Reserve. Here is one of Canada's most important singer/songwriters captured in a documentary for the first time!
$20.00 CDN from Maple Music

Laurie Anderson

born, never asked might be my favourite laurie a track. of course i dooooo also love the one about the Hat Check Girl.

where did i build the link to the review of her harbourfrontness???

Patti Smith

i was delighted once to find an exhibit upstairs at a bookstore in manhattan - it made me a fan of hers, even though i don't know her music...

Patti Smith Helps CBGB Say Goodbye
The legendary stage of New York rock club CBGB got its final workout last night (Oct. 15), courtesy of another legend, Patti Smith. Smith -- who played her first show at CBGB in February 1975 and early on became synonymous with the East Village venue and the American punk movement that was birthed in and around it -- gave a rousing performance to a packed-like-sardines crowd

Shawn Colvin

is fifty! and, i read she is terrified of SONGWRITING, while singing and performing on the other hand, are no problem for her...

"sure is a lot of talking for 5 minutes"

Group of Seven

last year marked the 40th anniversary of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection and the mandate to showcase the Group of Seven and their contemporaries.

On November 18, 1965, the Province of Ontario and the couple signed a formal agreement enabling the founding of a public art gallery. At that time, the McMichaels also gave 194 works of art along with their home and ten acres of parkland to the people of Ontario. Since the gallery first opened in 1966, its permanent collection of Canadian art has grown from the original gift of 194 works to 5,500, many of which have been donated to the gallery by private collectors. The original log and fieldstone home has been expanded into an 85,000 square-foot facility and receives more than 120,000 visitors a year.

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what i remember about the thom thomson exhibit at the AGO was how his name was signed differently on almost every piece. different place too.
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the rheo's spelled his name wrong on the tribute album? ACK.

Jennifer LoveGrove

I Should Never Have Fired the Sentinel and The Dagger Between Her Teeth.

also published in NOW, Queen St Quarterly, Taddle Creek and Matrix and has been broadcast on CBC radio. Since 1997, she has edited and published the handmade literary zine dig, while her wayward armadillo press publishes and produces chapbooks and events. she is currently working on fiction
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ECW Press, reviewed by Rob Thomas
collection divided into 4 discrete sections
goes to dark and terrible places of much violence and many fists
LoveGrove goes for the jugular. There is no question.

Kris K

the tribute manages to pull off what most don't, it makes you rethink and reevaluate the material at hand, and includes tracks from the handsome family and calexico. i read about a mellow mood, suffused with feeling...
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i heard his newest album is friggin' gr8 also.

Exclaim! FAQ

re: exclaim music school

"should i buy an ad?
if your sole motivation in buying the ad is that you think its a necessary component to get editorial coverage: don't.

At Exclaim! sales and editorial are church and state -- as Editor in Chief i don't even see what ads are in the magazine until i do a final page check the day before the magazine hits the streets. besides, press earned is so much sweeter than press purchased.
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if you build an audience, press will come
*
return phone calls from a magazine editor are a miracle that ranks just below the second coming."

Director Media Relations & Video Promotion

TRUE NORTH RECORDS
416-596-8696 X225
fax 416-596-6861
sue.mccallum(at)truenorthrecords.com

Dar Williams

was singing to me this morning about the beauty of the rain is in that it falls.
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"and the world is not falling apart the world is not falling apart because of me"

"Williams is an earnest and unadorned vocalist. She knows how to rise to the occassion: her alto shines in the presence of Alison Krauss. It does the same alongside John Popper."

MuchMusic Launches Digital Download Store Toronto-based MuchMusic has partnered with download service provider Puretracks, to launch a digital download store. The online service, which is a first for a Canadian broadcaster, went live today (Oct. 4).Read the full story here.

Jill Barber

Jill Barber’s first-full length album, For All Time, was released through Dependent Music/Baudelaire in October 2006. Dreamy imagery and happy endings are illuminated with appearances by Blue Rodeo's Jim Cuddy and Bazil Donovan, as well as Luke Doucet, and her brother, Matthew Barber.

Barber’s discography includes two previous EPs -- A Note to Follow So was released in Kingston, Ontario before she departed for Halifax and then the CBC released Oh Heart in 2004. She has also appeared on recordings by David Myles, Winter Sleep, Museum Pieces, Jory Nash, Heavy Blinkers and Matthew Barber. In 2006 she also acted in a short film with Brian Borcherdt.

Barber feels that what really makes a good song is its life span, as in 'Will it stand the test of time?' and she pens antique themes like love lost, and found, and other things that endure - family and goodwill. Rich images with emotional power grace original lyrics that she sings as elegant melodies with a dynamic, sweetly assured purr.

Critically acclaimed by The National Post, Eye, Now, and on chatattack.com. she has also been named Best Local Female Artist for three consecutive years by Halifax’s weekly The Coast. In 2005 she was awarded Female Artist-Recording of the Year at the Nova Scotia Music Awards, and was nominated for two East Coast Music Awards, and garnered a nomination at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Jill has been invited to tour with and share stages with Ron Sexsmith Kathleen Edwards, Josh Ritter, Joel Plaskett, and Nellie MacKay. She has performed across Canada and the US (including South By Southwest in Austin, TX, and the NEMO Festival in Boston), and will appear at the Hard Working Class Heroes Festival in Dublin, and tour the UK with British band Tunng.

Sources:
Maple Music, jillbarber.com, zunior.com, http://www.chartattack.com/damn/2006/09/2710.cfm

QUOTES
"When Jim walked into the studio, it was the first time I had ever met him. He's an extremely charming and handsome man. And to have the voice that is so familiar sing my song 'Don't Go Easy' was really cool." – Jill Barber, 2006

Judith Thompson

as published in the Ontarion

Dear Editor,
Thank you for the recent article in the Ontarion that made the University Library sound like a wonderful resource. Although it didn't clarify who qualifies for access -- I have since learned that if I take an Open Learning On-Line course from Equine Guelph, I can get a card, and check out items and log in to the wireless internet. I am also delighted to share the news that even non-students can VISIT the library and enjoy the resources, in the building, which is of great importance to me!

One of the faculty members at U of GUELPH has won the Governor General's award TWICE, and been made an Officer of the Order of Canada, among other prestigious awards. Yet, would you believe that the entire Guelph Public Library system has not one single copy of any of her works???? They have acted on my "purchase suggestion" and will soon stock a collection of Monologues she has edited, but in the meantime, I want to do my homework! You will find me at the University Library, reading of works like: The Crackwalker 1980, White Biting Dog 1984, I Am Yours 1987, Lion in the Streets 1990, Sled 1997, Perfect Pie 2000, Habitat 2001, Lost and Delirious 2001, Capture Me 2004, Enoch Arden, by Alfred Lord Jabber and his catatonic songstress 2005...

Thanks again for the article. I'm learning before I've even enrolled!

* * *
The Child's Play Collection
(sound recording) features stories by authors from Jack Hodgins to Sandra Birdsell. The stand-out selection is the Yellow Canaries by Judith Thomspon. An impending twin birth announcement, as part of a bedtime story as told to two existing children that is so wonderful it makes me wonder if she has really had twins. In the mother's tale the human race is living underground, inside the earth having destroyed it all above with war and pollution, which is optimistically inspirational even in its depressive fictional realism. And then there is the uplifting nature of PLOT of the work itself, which ends happily. Her creativity heals other people.
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as i recall judith directed the play that sarah did sets for and that ellie acted in.what a great idea to have the kids SHARE the roles eh? brilliant. and well executed!
Wed Jun 22, 2005
Toronto Star
front page A&E
Shakespeare is Elementary

A Musical Meeting

“I have always found first meetings between players to be a very exciting thing to behold.” Says Guelph's own Jeff Bird, who is best known for his association with Cowboy Junkies. This week he will play bass, and bring together three of his favourite world-class musician friends for a first meeting! Folkway Music is tremendously excited to present four improvisational giants colliding in an historical moment, Friday October 6th, 2006, 8:00pm

Kevin Breit and Tony Quarrington are two of Canada's finest guitar players. Both are true virtuosos of their instruments each with their own unique voice and both are excellent improvisers to boot.

Kevin records and performs with varied talents from Norah Jones, Rosanne Cash, and Bill Frisell to k.d. lang and Holly Cole. He is sought out for his innovative guitar style, and tremendous prowess on all things stringed, as well as his unique harmonies and compositional voice. Named ‘Musician of the Year' Award by the Toronto Musician's Union, he maintains a residency at the Orbit Room, one of Toronto's most prestigious jazz clubs.

Tony Quarrington is a very gifted jazz guitarist and composer, who earned a Juno for the Roots Album 'Heartstrings' by Willie P. Bennett. He is also known for the tunes which are musical analogues to canvases by the famous Group of Seven, through a wide variety of jazz, rock, and roots grooves, and dazzling, free-wheeling improvisations.

But the two have never met, let alone played together. Bird has also invited the fearless and fiery drummer Randall Coryell into the mix, advises audience members to stand back! Expect “every player up on their tippy toes feeling each other out, ducking and diving and generally having a good time."

Folkway Music is located at 163 Suffolk Street West, Guelph, and doors open at 8:00 pm for an 8:30 sharp show-time. Call (519) 763-5524 to book $20 tickets, since seating is limited to 75, in the smoke-free, non-licensed, acoustic venue, where coffee and tea are served with the music. Don't miss this delicious musical treat meeting, and watch for more shows planned at the same venue in upcoming months!

Bob Snider

Caterwaul & Doggerel
Borealis Records

An exceptional songwriter and performer, Bob Snider has released several albums. This 1995 recording produced by Don Kerr was originally released by EMI and reveals Snider's warmth, cleverly stated politics and observant wit with just the right dash of off-beat humour. What a master! Parkette is a list of beautiful images that by the end of the song are paved over, while others, even after repeated listens, still make you laugh. From heartbreaking to hilarious, from the streets of Kensington, to the concert hall, Snider sings ideas that should be sung. New National Anthem anyone? Snider is just the man to pen a song to define our identity, and this is an album to listen to in the meantime.

Justin Rutledge

The Devil On A Bench in Stanley Park
Six Shooter Records

This is a collection of songs that lyrically address life’s dark corners, while the musicality provides a subtle-but-catchy ray of cheer. Rutledge’s voice shines, as evocative and captivating as the content of the songs themselves, while he plays guitars, banjo and harmonica. Also featured are pedal steel & dobro from Burke Carroll and support from Blue Rodeo, including some cutting Keelor electric guitar. Ten strong Canadian Americana songs recorded in ten winter days at Woodshed studios in Toronto, invite listeners to embrace a journey where quiet men make their stands and highways speak their minds.

A Home At The End Of The World is soooooooooo gooooooooooooood i say you should watch it.

have you seen Off The Map? i have many friends that live like that. but Arizona is even more beautiful than New Mexico. want to go?

Blackie and The Rodeo Kings

Let’s Frolic
True North Records

This is a release that is a sheer pleasure to listen to, and you can actually hear the pleasure these musicians find in playing with one another. There is a sense of mutual appreciation, encouragement and camaraderie, which lends well to the musical chemistry surrounding their technical proficiency. In trademark BARK style, this is a freewheeling collection of roots-groovy, bluesy, alt-country surf-jazz songs that defy categorization. Great playing and appealing vocals make repeated listening a delight to the synergistic fourth album from the legendary award winning Colin Linden, Stephen Fearing and Tom Wilson, as BARK.

name dropping

so, its always bothered me that there are so many wrecking ball songs. neil young has one and emmy had one and bob egan said last night that he wrote his after a conversation with emmy. so, now it doesn't bother me so much.

and duncan just read at the eden mills writers festival

and i met a guy who learned to like tom petty at the same replacements concert i went to (in the OLDEN OLDEN days). now then, when do i get to go to the starlight?

Doyle Dykes

(as sent to Guelph Tribune)

Doyle Dykes Awes at Folkway Music
Thursday, September 14

Like a number of great guitarists, Doyle Dykes, seems blessed with a natural affinity for playing, which he has developed into virtuosic technique through years of hard work and dedication. He recently demonstrated his skills at Folkway Music, and also told some interesting stories to about 70 people seated inside the guitar covered walls of Guelph's revered music shop.
He mentioned appearances he'd enjoyed making on the Opry, and while demonstrating an ability to emulate the double melody playing style of Chet Atkins, he explained that when Atkins passed, the Opry asked him to close a special tribute show in honor of the late guitar legend. Doyle treated listeners at Folkway to banjo runs, Beatles medlies and other unique and varied arrangements. His talent goes well beyond the kind of technical prowess that comes with practice and repetition, because his breathtaking speed and dazzling dynamics transformed the guitars he was demonstrating into emotionally powerful tools for communication.

Eventually he invited his beautiful mandolin playing, sweet voiced daughter on stage to sing for a couple numbers, and together they created even more magic. There were prizes for trivia questions to close out the night, and it was easy to see why Doyle is a guitar hero to thousands of players -- he communicates so much personal sheer guitar enthusiasm! He quoted Doc Watson saying he probably would have been an Engineer, but for his blindness - making the point that it was such hardship that shaped such awesome ability. Doyle relished the example that sometimes life has plans for you that you may not understand, suggesting you must trust you will come to see the blessing. Talk about inspiration! Folkway Music delighted the community by hosting yet another wonderful workshop.

Great Big Sea - Edited/Published Version

Great Big Sea is a modern traditional band, a Newfoundland folk-rock band that performs original material and is appreciated for their mixture of traditional and popular music. Performing ballads, jigs and reels, they create a spirited sound -- whether classical standards or local songs they are transformed, but with the original appeal kept intact. Based in St. John's, this Juno nominated band possesses a crowd pleasing formula that is both heartfelt and vital.

Originally, Sean McCann and Bob Hallett played with the successful group, Rankin Street. In 1991, they met Alan Doyle and Darrell Power and formed GBS. The band played its first official gig on March 11, 1993, opening for the Irish Descendants. That year they recorded their first ever album, an independent self-titled release that included classics like "I’se the B’y" and "Drunken Sailor." This record has since been re-released by Warner Music Canada.
GBS's follow-up album, Up, went platinum in Canada, selling more than 100,000 copies and introducing their kitchen party style to a wider audience with lyrics like “So, pile your boots up in the corner/Hang your jacket from the door/There’s thirty people in the kitchen/And there’s always room for more.”

After the band won at the East Coast Music Awards in the “Entertainer of the Year” category, their third release Play, went platinum in just three months. Released in 1997, this album features new material such as "Ordinary Day," "End of The World," "My Apology" and more.
In 1998, Great Big Sea released Rant & Roar, a collection of their biggest hits. Within the first week of its release, it hit #3 on the Soundscan album charts, making it the fastest debut album rising of the week. This was also the year the band was nominated for several Juno Awards, including Group of the Year.

1999's Turn featured the hit single, "Consequence Free," traditional French songs and seven originals. A video was also released where Sean was bullied by a female wrestler!
Road Rage, released in 2000, cemented GBS's stature as one of Canada's most exciting live acts. Road Rage was recorded totally live on their Turn tour between October 14 and December 31, 1999. .Two new songs, "Everything Shines" and "Hangin Johnny," are added to this compilation of GBS favourites

Having won the "Entertainer of the Year" award at the East Coast Music Awards for four years in a row, in 2001, they decided not to submit their name for nomination in order to allow other bands to compete. In 2002, Power retired from Great Big Sea to spend more time with his family.

In February 2002, their sixth studio album -- Sea of No Cares was released in North America. Alan Doyle felt that it was their best album to date. Then, 2003 saw a Great Big DVD.
In 2004, the band released their seventh full-length album Something Beautiful. It was their fifth consecutive album to debut in the Top 10 on Canadian sales charts. In a podcast it was suggested that the complexity of the material on the album contributed to the fact that "it was not fun to make" to which a bandmade joked “so it's US, you don’t like then?”

The Hard and The Easy, released the following year, spans the spectrum of the Newfoundland songbook. It is a solid and straightforward acoustic album of traditional and local songs, and a first for singers and multi-instrumentalists Sean McCann, Alan Doyle and Bob Hallett. This album showed that tracing the evolution of Newfoundland folk music clearly remains a passion for Great Big Sea. Each of the twelve songs found on the album was selected for what it says, how it speaks of Newfoundland, history, labour and love, and how it fits into the local musical canon.

This eighth release is like a pure force of nature — Great Big Sea's blend of instruments like mandolin, bodhran, fiddle, and concertina, along with their vocal harmonies, revels in the melodies they create, and their sound bellows joy. It reached gold status in its second week. "The hard and the easy, we take as they come — that's it. That encapsulates the Newfoundland spirit," said Alan. It also includes "River Driver", which the band performs acapella; the band members apparently long to make an album someday of just singing!

In late 2005, GBS released their first podcast, containing audio of the band bantering back and forth in the studio mixed with various songs by them and other artists. They have since released several podcasts, which are interesting and informative but casual and full of foolish fun, covering a range of topics from "all beers with animals on it is good beer" to whose turn it is to have long hair and resolutions like “dirt is the new clean.”

Recently, the band drove six hours to Lexington to play "Wood Songs," a wonderful old time radio show that happens in the town's public library. And Bob has been writing for the website about his personal soundtrack as he loads tunes into his iPod. From Bay City Rollers tunes with "Heys" perfect for audience sing-a-longs to "There She Goes," one of his favourite lovesongs - "I don't suppose everyone can identify with the narrator, building a fantasy around a girl who he doesn't even have the courage to talk to, but I certainly can."

GBS makes great music with great heart, and in short, has become one of Canada's most popular bands.

Bob Egan - The Glorious Decline

When Bob Egan (of Blue Rodeo, fomerly of Wilco) played with Shannon Lyon this summer in Guelph he played less than 10 songs, but what great songs they were! With a surprisingly wide variety of instrumentation -- long, atmospheric musical composites accompany his accomplished and versatile vocals, in unique and intriguing song constructions. From the steel guitar and the drum machine, to experimental pedal weirdness, a slide, an acoustic and a National Steel guitar, Egan held the full audience's rapt attention. What great music.

His latest album, The Glorious Decline, has just been released, and it is well worth buying! You can hear samples at www.bobegan.com, but suffice to say it is a another powerful work from a master musician and songwriter, with a pleasing voice and way with a melody. But it is an album full of sad, sad songs -- both subject matter wise and in the way it sounds, because of the instrumentation. He said "I really don't know how to describe my music......folk pop with country and rock influences?" also mentioning the genre of "Sad" appealled "because I've always written sad songs and been drawn to sad songs. Sadness would allow me a mood to work within and set a theme for the record." Bob Egan has succeeded once again -- the recent sorrowful release certainly makes good listening!

Support Independent Music

DAYDREAM Nation said "not too many people know about that. and then the rat HAD it so i bought a(nother) record i can NOT afford." The scoundrel that has Fox Confessor out of the library is overdue, but there are clips on zunior. maple music has nothing.
echo needs writers.

marketing happens BEFOREHAND. how can i earn my way in, and then get paid for the review after the fact? the ontarion only wants reviews and they want it coordinated thru cfru.

ricky's shift just switch to the 7-8 and will soon meet the cult member 6-7 i mentioned.

Neko Case

Starting out in music as drummer and teaching herself to sing after that, to great critical acclaim, she is now being recognized as songwriter.

An honourary musical Canadian, she is Chicago-based. Born September 8, 1970 in Alexandria, Virginia, Case is of Ukranian descent. She grew up around horses, cows, goats, and chickens staying close to grandparents that were farmers - she got out into the world early though, leaving home at 15. While attending school she played in several local bands, including the Del Logs, the Propanes, the Weasles, most cub -- punk groups, but some with a country bent.

In 1994, when she joined the all girl, punk band Maow in Vancouver and taught herself to sing by "paying close attention to what other people do." While there she attended the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design, and in 1998, earned a BFA; By the time her student visa ran out, she had received six award nominations, two from the British Columbia Country Music Association and four from the Georgia Straight.

In 1997, Case recorded her solo debut, The Virginian, a traditional country album that revealed a rough, vulnerable voice of strength and range that caused critics and her growing legion of loyal fans to swoon. John Doe of X, decribed her voice as one with a lot of heartache… "like something out of the past.” Multifaceted, Neko also taught herself to play guitar and other instruments, and is an accomplished visual artist as well.

Recalling November 1999, Bob Egan reported “I was in Toronto working on Oh Susanna's record and I heard that Neko was in town recording at the Gas Station. I called Don, co-owner of the studio and offered my services. He invited me by when I got a day off. To Neko I said "Hey, I'm Bob and I want to play steel on your record." She was cool with that. He refers to her second album as a classic. Furnace Room Lullaby, released in 2000 garnered countless accolades in publications like The New York Times, GQ, Esquire, Interview, People, and Time.

Neko continued to tour in the United States and Canada, both on her own and with acts including Blue Rodeo and Great Big Sea. In addition, Neko formed The Corn Sisters, a duo with Carolyn Mark, to sing old-time country music. One of their performances, at Seattle's Hattie's Hat restaurant in 1998 was recorded and released as an album, The Other Women in 2000.

Neko's personality is far from predictable. She's outspoken, independent and indifferent to what others may think of her. Her work has earned her a Canadian Juno music award as a member of The New Pornographers, in 2000 for Best Alternative Album.

Canadian Amp was a home-recorded EP that featured covers of songs by Canadian songwriters Sook Yin Lee, Mike O’Neill and Neil Young. Case made time to go back into the studio at the end of 2001 and recorded and co-produced Blacklisted (2002).For the first time, Case wrote most of the songs and played a wide variety of the instruments including guitar, piano, saw and drums.. She "twangs like Patsy Cline and croons like Loretta Lynn," according to Rolling Stone "so Neko's just as easy on the ears as she is on the eyes."

In April 2004, Neko played two shows in Toronto with The Sadies, an indie rock/alternative country band she had often collaborated with in the past. The live album of the shows, entitled The Tigers Have Spoken, was released in October of that year. Largely recorded at Lee’s Palace in Toronto, it includes an Buffy Ste Marie cover since she’s one of the first recording artist Case remembers “I loved her so much that I named my first dog after her.”

Next, Neko went back into the studio with The New Pornographers to record their third album, Twin Cinema, which was released in August 2005. In February 2006, Neko was named Female Artist of the Year at the Plug Independent Music Awards, right before the release of her fourth solo album, Fox Confessor Brings the Flood. Mostly recorded in Tucson Arizona, The Sadies again participated as the backing band, and this time co-writing some tracks. She is secretive about the inspiration behind her material, except to explain that most of her songs are not autobiographical. But open enough to offer that “Music might be the one thing that gets you through the really hard times."

sources: http://www.nekocase.com/.http://www.mintrecs.com/. Zunior.com, bobegan.com, http://www.avclub.com/content/node/48266http://www.darrylneudorf.com http://ca.askmen.com/women/singer_200/214_neko_case.html SOCAN magazine http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5325695 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neko_Case

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remember when she appeared at Harbourfront?
$20 TO Twang, Summer 2005
"brings her uninhibited style to Toronto"
*
high mark, NOW
carolyn mark with the prscillas at the horseshoe, 250 in attendance $8

"while Neko Case toodles around with her Boyfriends, Mark is backed by her New Best Friends (formerly known as the Roommates), an apropos name for the wildly talented band of boys with who she has a awesome rapport.
* * *
"Given a choice of options, Neko Case will inevitably take the most difficult path and stubbornly pursue it to the bitter end, whatever the cost.

Even when it appears Case is doing something the easy way, she has a knack for turning a potentially simple task into a five-alarm ordeal. Murphy has nothing on her."

logistical challenge posed by her plan to record the tigers have spoken on stage at three venues in different countries, non-road tested songs

"i enjoy when things sound orchestrated and large, but i'm trying to create a little more space and dynamics this time. i'd like the new ablum to be not quite as thick-sounding as Blacklisted. And maybe a little more upbeat"

q. for mr. bob

Q. you have so many instruments! do you wish for more, or are you satisfied with your collection?

Q. that is such a great story on your website about joining wilco. what can you tell us about the moment you joined blue rodeo?

Q. i also enjoy your journal entries. you are such a good writer. have you ever thought of producing a book?

Q. what was your business in chicago? do you know of many businesses of a comparable nature?

Q. did harmony trowbridge take you up on your offer to do anything it takes to help her get a record out?

looks like dylan

is too busy being #1 on the billboard charts this week to approve the pending myspace friends request i sent.

Bob Dylan
Modern Times

shirt of the week

since nov '01 nathan has been wearing a new shirt every day with a different phrase. the hub publishes one shirt each week. want more? www.iwanttofitin.com

nathan is a former graduate student from the university of illonois and is currently making art and living in chicago.

* * *
do you attend regional "arts" events in the east central illonois area? interesting in writing about them for The Hub? please state your interests and provide writing samples to lisa@thehubweekly.com

Decalmando (and other traditions)

In some areas it was common for the singer to hold the hand of the person next to him, swinging arms to the time of the music.

A particular performance convention associated with the Irish singing tradition, noted in several parts of Newfoundland, is the speaking of the final line of a song.

success without college

When I met Laurie Brown at the KM Hunter Awards I cut right to the chase, “Okay, basically, I want to be you. Could you tell me how to get there from here? And please do not tell me to go back to school, and do not tell me I could intern. Because I do not have time for that.”After getting a guitar at age 13, being in a band at age 26, Laurie Brown earned famed in 1984 as the girl in Corey Hart’s sunglasses-at-night video. She went on to break ground for women in Rock ‘n Roll as the co host and associate producer of the New Music (a syndicated TV show, esteemed by a generation), and then acted as a pioneer Much Music VJ. She spent her 30’s and early 40’s as a CBC writer-broadcaster and, first with a radio program called The Beat and then as a television presence during prime time news on the National – covering arts and culture. An award-winning journalist, since her CBC departure in 2001, she has added many more freelance Creative Producer credits (Public Service Announcements for Harbourfront Centre for example) to her credentials list, while also acting as an advocate for new media, and freelancing more and more as a Creative Director.WE’VE COME A LONG WAY BABYIf the first thing you say to a musician is “about the music,” you will be taken seriously. So assures Laurie Brown, about the most effective way to interview rock stars. I’d asked how to overcome the dismissive and unsupportive attitude toward female music critics. When pressed about how to handle the implicit sexual assumption that one wants to sleep with one’s favourite musicians, she said, “Maybe I’m naive, but I never really noticed it” revealing the credibility of her sincere interest in music itself, as well as the power of her ability to focus on an artist’s creativity. She suggests, on further consideration, that perhaps to avoid such an assumption, she has actually erred on the side of professionalism a time or two. And implies that her personal life could have been a few meaningful relationship richer, if she had protected her professional reputation a little less and followed her heart a little more. “You know, I had friends who accepted invitations to go on a few tour dates, but I never did.” she adds with a little regret and a great deal of forthright honesty. It’s part of her character.Many adventures she did experience are hilariously recorded in her book “Success Without College – Days and Nights in Rock “N Roll TV.” A compelling and enjoyable read to prove a great method to establish new feminist territory in a predominantly male scene like the music industry, is to brandish a sense of humour. A strong sense of self, intelligence, beautiful brown eyes and a great work ethic don’t hurt either. I caught up with her after applause for her contribution to the ‘50 Songs of the Decade’ a CBC broadcast that also featured Jeff Healy and Colin Linden. She had prepared in advance and was appreciated for it, and seems to be the kind of person who puts a great deal of thought and energy into whatever she does.For such a feminist “rock ‘n roll” forerunner, I was surprised to learn of her seemingly respectable personal life -- married at age 19. She is recently separated from her husband, and shares custody of the kids, aged 15 and 12. I like to picture her dancing around in the living room of her new home, enjoying solitude previously rare. She has just bought herself an iPod and is busy downloading music like a modern techno mama. She intends to get back to the piano and creating music herself one of these days, since generally she craves new music more than she ever wants to replay old tunes. She didn’t take much of the substantial shared record collection with her when she moved, though she admits it was frantically rooting through that very library helped confirm for her how to move out of the relationship. After she (finally) found herself grooving to Dr. Buzzards Original Savannah Band, she realized she’d need to embrace her prior moments of freedom. Like seeking the music she was into before she met her husband to recreate a time when her life was hers alone.There are other ways we can also admire her bravery. Recently, she told filmmaker Ron Mann on her native east coast, that she didn’t like his latest flick, Go Further, because it didn’t go far enough. When I said I was thinking about "turning Vegan" after what I had learned at the Vegetarian Food Fair when I worked the Studio Theatre? That the milk and dairy industry are even worse than meat industries where they slaughter 'em, because the conditions and treatment while they keep them alive and productive are even more cruel? She shrugged "Find the milk from Happy Cows."She is most passionate about seeing the execution of her own creative vision. Its apparent in listening to her is that one of the reasons she enjoys having creative input is that’s how you get to delve into what interests you. Take for instance the television show she so enjoyed creating, called IDEAS that aired for 20 episodes on ichannel, last year. Wanting to know more about technology, at that time, she was able to invite and interview guests that she sincerely wanted to learn from. “Technology is going to be the tool that turns us into better human beings.” she states emphatically, “or, it will be the house in which that happens.” She’s convincing, and predicts that the future of the arts is currently in the hands of technology as well, since art gets less and less publicity and media every day. This is why she supports interesting new media concept called “ARTSPOST” which is being piloted through three major art centres across the country, by Marble Media. It acts as technological tool to provide background information and insightful support material for art shows and performances, to enhance their impact. Just like her continual ability to enhance a local scene with her insightful focus. I suggest we stay tuned, for on this very note a new phase begins for the continually cutting edge, Laurie Brown.What is your most memorable dream? I don’t think I have a one most memorable. But I do pay attention to them. And I dream almost every night.Do you have a pet peeve? The TV industry calling itself an industryWhat is your secret indulgence? Avocado and raw almonds. I am learning to be good to me.When do you know it’s time to move on to a new job? When I feel frustrated at the people around me all the time. I work well with people. Generally, I enjoy them you know? So when I find that’s not the case anymore, I know its time to move on.What do you do too much of? Driving. You know with the kids and their stuff and the back and forth and the traffic... ug. Driving. I do too much driving.What kind of car? Honda CivicWhat part of your work are you most passionate about? (Your creativity, and the expression of it, from the sounds of it). YES, for sure. But also, is a passion for other people’s creativity. That’s what I have enjoyed so much about my work -- the part that is about exposing their (the guest’s) creativity

u of t beauty...

since its creation in 1919 hart house has been a home to creative expression in all its dimensions.

"no one does it alone -- you need to be taught and encouraged and nudged and corrected and challenged and then maybe something remarkable can happen. becoming good at something is a long slow process and it all begins with an interest and a little spark of encouragement. i got that spark backstage at hart house theatre."
-- lorne michales, exec producer SNL

"it's a theatre. it smells it hears it sings. with arms that embrace you comfort you push you applaud you. it gives birth to people..."
-- donald sutherland

news of blue rodeos' friends:

Shannon Lyon's Summer Blonde [which was released in 2000 and has been out of print for 3 or more years] is being re-released in Canada on Busted Flat Records. He said "We're sifting through old demos and recordings - to be released bonus tracks. We're also considering adding old video footage from our Canadian Blue Rodeo Tour back in 2000"

Live Shows Soon =
Sept 11 - Blue Mondays @ Cest What - Toronto - w/ Kat Goldman ( 9pm to 12am )
Sept 14 - Kitchener, Ontario - Jacks - 'Acoustic-Series' . 10pm
Sept 17 - Fergus, Ontario - Brew House - (afternoon show 2pm-6pm) info

* * *
And, in other one degree artist news Great Big Sea will be performing at this year's CCMA's in Saint John, NB on September 11, 2006! The awards show will be broadcast on CBC TV, Great American Country channel in the US, and Country Music Channel in Oz.

(i will also add that their podcasts, available ANYTIME from their website, are delightful and hilarious, not to mention replete with some pretty good music!!!)

sounds like canada

i must have forgotten to click post at the end of my diggers board comments about the truth about us. music fans buy song by song nowadays right?

i think a sounds like canada mp3 campaign is exactly what this country needs. especially with SUCH a timely song as a feature!

don't you agree?

Chris LeDrew

(an update on content on the one degree page, bluerodeo.com)

Chris LeDrew is a dynamic singer/songwriter from St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, who plays more than 7 instruments. He names Bob Dylan as his idol, and has drawn inspiration from other such classic influences as Buffalo Springfield, Gram Parsons, The Byrds and the Beatles. If he could go back in time to meet someone, it would be the revered songwriter Townes Van Zant, Chris says “I stood next to him once in an art gallery in Ottawa, but never had the courage to say hi.”

A seasoned writer in his own right, he describes his preferred method: “Let the Muse take the lead – don’t force it. Song writing is not exercise – don’t get on a routine.” And thus he crafts a uniquely original sound, creating songs as sonic portraits of some of life's emotionally resonant moments.

Chris released Too Commercial, his independent debut, to critical acclaim in 1997. The recording included collaborations with Blue Rodeo's Greg Keelor. Chris has also worked with noted Canadian artists Lennie Gallant, Celtic/Rock group the Punters and Ron Hynes.

In the years that followed his solo album, Chris LeDrew teamed up with his brother Andrew to form a pop/rock/roots duo called Brothers In Stereo (B.I.S.). A self-titled full-length CD was released in June 2003 and a video for the single "The Worst Crowd" followed. Brothers In Stereo feature the songwriting talents of both Chris and Andrew. The band toured extensively, the influence of which can be heard in their lyrics. B.I.S. were nominated for two awards at the ECMAs and took the Rising Star award at Newfoundland's Music Industry Association award gala in 2003, and were pictured again at EMCA 2004.

In Sept 2005, B.I.S. got a surprise call one afternoon to open for Our Lady Peace that night in Mount Pearl (after K-OS were a no-show). This concert turned out to be the biggest and best yet for B.I.S., with over 10,000 people in attendance. Lighters were burning for "Your Voice", and the crowd were singing along with the band on familiar radio songs. Chris said “We had no time to worry about the size of the show, so we were really laid-back and able to enjoy it completely."

Brothers in Stereo's debut CD is available at http://www.notlame.com/, a great site featuring many power pop bands from all over the world, and through which B.I.S. are enjoying a raft of attention from new fans south of the border who describe the music as reminiscent of the Odds, classic Squeeze or Tom Petty. Brothers In Stereo make power pop that is rich and textured with jangly layers of ringing guitar, and warm vocals with wistful harmonies, and Chris LeDrew continues to thrive on writing/performing his own distinctive and magical brand of rock and roll, and triumphant, driven songs.

Relationship to Blue Rodeo
-- In March 1989, Newfoundland rock group The Brats opened for Blue Rodeo in St. John's. Chris LeDrew happened to be lead guitarist with that band. Years passed and the friendship remained, with Chris usually meeting up with Blue Rodeo whenever they played St. John's.
-- In 1997, Chris LeDrew was recording his debut independent CD, when he ran into Greg Keelor at a bar in Halifax. Greg was on his "birth journey" at the time. The two struck up a conversation, which eventually led to Greg agreeing to come to the studio and lend his voice to Chris' recordings. Greg showed up during a raging snowstorm to do just that.
-- March 2000, Chris warmed up the sold-out Blue Rodeo audience for two shows at the Delta Hotel in St. John's as an opening act.

Quotes
"Whenever Blue Rodeo were in town, I would go see them…they'd let me hang out backstage. I'd always pester Greg to let me play his vintage guitars. They were really supportive!"
- Chris LeDrew

copyright chatter on the cbc today

got me ready to dig around this topic next?

http://www.musiccreators.ca/1. Suing Our Fans is Destructive and HypocriticalArtists do not want to sue music fans. The labels have been suing our fans against our will, and laws enabling these suits cannot be justified in our names.i think this was andrew cash said this?

* *
SOCAN Community Forum: Copyright Copywrong
Lakeside TerraceSunday August 27, 2pmJoin the debate about fair use, downloading and ownership with special guests from music industry.Panelists: Jason Collette, Arts and Crafts, Broken Social Scene, Paul Spurgeon, Vice President Legal Services and General Counsel, SOCAN, Marcus Bornfreund, Co-director Creative Commons CanadaModerator: Charlie Angus - Federal MP, NDP Timons-James Bay, Grievous Angels

Kensington Harvest Festival

September 21 11am-11pm

Toronto's bohemian corner of cool

19 act bill featured Kurt Swinghammer, John Borra, Scott B and my faves of the day Steve Singh and Clare Jenkins.

Toronto Public Library

FREEDOM TO READ WEEK

COMIX AND GRAPHIC NOVELS
stigma or art?

meet comic artist
matthew blackett

using images from the museum of caroon art to examine censorship (ages 16 and up)

Wednesday February 25, 2004

2:00 pm

teachers: pls call ahead to book your class.

Bloor Gladstone Branch

1100 Bloor St W

Toronto, ON

M6H 1M7

Community Room

wide collar crimes

m@b issues

* *

what i remember most was his pie chart of why it makes sense to be indie. and how i've passed him on the street a few times since then.

collage clippings

1) my apartment weekly profile of torontonians and their rented spaces. if you know of someone or someplace you'd like to see featured here, let us know at barcher@eye.net

mike belitsky, 37, drummer for the sadies
damian rogers, 31, eye intern and freelance editor (intern's SALARY)
+ the schoo their cat

one bedroom 11,000 sq ft with office den laundry yard and garage $1400
moved from east village, nyc

2) Hearing Henry, Bruce MacDonald, Toronto
after reading sarah liss's review of joe henry's performance at the elmo i have to conclued that her inability to appreciate the man's music have had to do with the fact that she talked through almost every song he sang. it was clear to more than a few of us unfortunately in her promximity that Liss had no intention of giving henry a fair hearing. oh well, her loss. about the only thing i'd rather hear right now, other than some songs by a consummate artist and performer like Joe Henry would be the resounding pop! of Liss deciding to pull her head out of her ass.

(god retyping that i can't believe he WROTE that!)

thursday january 26, 2006

What the poets are doingrob mclennan is excited to report a new edition of the poetry-anthology Ottawater is now available. Not that you'll find the compilation of recent works by award-winning local poets such as Karen Massey, Shane Rhodes and Rhonda Douglas in your favourite bookstore. Nor wherever you buy 'zines. Nor, for that matter, at the Mercury Lounge tonight. Ottawater No. 2 can be read only at www.ottawater.com.

mclennan's enthusiasm, however, is understandable. For one thing, the arrival of a sequel to the first online edition, compiled in order to shine a light on locals during Ottawa's 150th anniversary, makes Ottawater legitimately an 'annual' publication. For another, it enables the man responsible for hundreds of published works during the past 15 years to cross one more task off his list. Mclennan should be used to promoting things perceived to be non-existent. He has for 14 years earned a living primarily through poetry in a city where such a full-time occupation seems unimaginable.

Throughout, mclennan has worked tirelessly to promote a vibrant local scene that remains well under the radar, helping to get readings series such as Dusty Owl and TREE off the ground. "Part of the reason for doing it online is to be able to hit people on more than one front," he explains. "People around the world will happen upon the site and go, 'Wow, Ottawa is pretty cool!' That's part of the reason I like to include people who used to live here as well, in order to make people aware of what we've produced."
Ottawa Sun Posted on Thursday, January 26, 2006

Dear Maple Music

Dark HOLLOW? More like Dark AGES! I would like to download Bob Egan's new release too. Are you really only offering CDs for sale instead of digital formats???

1) I have att'd an mp3 of a speech I hope will convince you to "i-Pod it." Have you considered creating Maple Music internet radio? Or podcasts?? I've written to you before, since I'd like to be spin doctor for you. How about meeting the market need??? I am sure I can help... Is providing technical assistance to shoppers in the Maple's future? Is welcoming feedback? I am also capable of helping with those bios which are in need of continual revision to sustain interest...

2) In the industry today, the new model is the old model. TOURING. Since 1998 annual concert tour revenue has more than doubled while sales of pre-recorded music at best have remained flat. I am willing to take initiative and arrange new opportunities for events. I would be willing to distribute promo materials BEFORE shows. Especially with innovative target marketing for new listener groups! I also offer a willingness and ability to promote the bands and the Web site by talking to people during shows or handling promotional exercises such as contests; in order to distribute promotional materials at the shows ...

I will send a more professional collection of my work samples eventually, in the hopes of working with the company in future. But I couldn't resist getting in touch again now, in case you wanted to direct my enthusiasm and energies toward mutual benefit. An e-mail reply would do it....

Zunior

Q. what challenges are ahead?
Q. what skills are in demand?
Q. what developments are on the horizon that affect future zunior employment opportunities?
*

i even like zname of znews
*
now, THAT is a nicely formated brand of newsletter.WHEN is the next podcast?do i GET anything if my friends sign up for your newsletter?and, what good is the free (forwardable? to my friends) music anyway? just a one time only listen?? do you want us to submit reviews or comment in the forum or anything?
signed
Queen of Discussion Topics (=Queen of Marketing Ideas)
p.s. would you like to see my resume???



songlifting
"While the music companies continue to innovate and develop new digital ways to offer music to fans, they also do their part to hold illegal downloaders accountable. "It's against the law, and breaking the law must carry consequences.”


Thinking Zunior
How do they get nominated? Don’t you think Dave Ullrich should get the 2007? I should ask him for their fancy stats.from 200 titles tohow many SONGS is that?* *The Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award. The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) honous individuals who have contributed to the growth and development of the Canadian music industry.With over 35 years in the Canadian music industry, True North Records founder Bernie Finkelstein has been chosen as the 2006 recipient Finkelstein began his career managing two of Canada's earliest internationally known groups, The Paupers and Kensington Market. In 1969, he undertook the project of starting a Canadian recording company -- True North Records. His mandate was to find lasting Canadian recording artists, make records and sell them around the world. Since its inception, True North Records has had over 400 releases, 38 JUNO Awards and 39 gold and platinum records to its credit, and today stands as Canada's oldest independent record company. True North's current roster includes such great Canadian artists as: Bruce Cockburn and Blackie & The Rodeo Kings

*
Neko Case on CBC said "you don't tell Garth Hudson what to play."Did you know you can buy her music on zunior?Did you hear Jill Barber the other day? Now she really made me want to go z-shopping!I'm almost glad my stereo won't get CBC since I moved, I'm so modern now, an on-line listener...
to zunior, the steps say:
Click the DOWNLOAD button and save the file to your computer. Open and enjoy the music. This reminds me of the Ikea furniture building instruction page where they show you the steps as 1) a diagram of all the parts, and then 2) a diagram of the finished product. thanks a lot eh?
**
can someone draw me a map of my own technology please? or put on note on there for first timers with bad instincts not to choose OPEN, choose save and then give them the lesson i already had before.it bugs me how the song clips sit in my i-tunes forever breaking up the shuffle all the time, but my supposedly free downloads just tease me for current, on the site playing only. are they really not downloadable?
* * *
not very many chicks on that podcast now where there? too bad i wasn't keeping notes. too bad i've listened twice and still think i can buy a selina martin cd and get an inbreds or mike o or egger for free, eh?signed,testing customer servicegot available credit?take your card for a spin at the on-line store of a 2 yr old music label.
*
buy one get one free, my *$$ buy one and get ME free, more like.
dear zunior president,
don't you have the confidence to let me have ANY zunior catalogue liberties and see if i'd buy you anyway?zun4390 indeed.
* * *
al tuck on zunior radio. nice to know who i'm enjoying at the moment... who's that chick singing with luc doucet? yeehaw later i heard selina martin. i have GOT to buy that.
*
was it monday july 3 i blogged that an audio magazine should come with a free download?you know like cmj and uncut magazines come with a (good) free cd. but, so then, do they have to BUY the podcast, or what???
*
i still want to work for zunior. why don't they RETURN my ^%$# call. i'm a good employee. i should convince them. i'll be my own reference and everything!!
*
i really liked the song about the guy with the always ringing phone and believe me i laughed OUT LOUD like a moron in my own backyard while gardening I MEAN WEEDING this afternoon and listening to "i quit my job" before coming in to make rice and potatoes for supper.
*
smart and fun:another thing on the cbc today wasthe webcast from the living roomas a way to avoid touringbut yet garner cheap exposure700 ppl watched10 ppl in the room
*
i have ANOTHER complainti had to stop the podcast to go see who's lovely voice i recognized , not having noticed the name in the list of detailed podcast track info...if one follows links far enough into zunior catalogue one can confirm that jill barber is the vocal treasure to whom i am referring. i think full credits on future podcasts might be nice. is it too much work?btw, when i'm travelling, is the info track by track more easily accessible than i know? because for sure i am losing track...and p.s.now, where will the podcast pick up again? AT THE BEGINNING??? boy, barber MUST sound awesome for a listener to risk THAT! she really was great at hillside, i can tell you that.

i remember when we saw her at the corporate gig.

*
that's a good idea!
"That's a good idea!"
is one of my favourite expressions!when i went to hear daniel richler speak at the reference library about pop culture, he basically did a big commercial for his just launched book tv. i remember hearing that they were short staffed, and with not enough finances to hire more staff so at the end of his chat i walked up to him and held out my business card saying "i would intern."he took my card, smiling "now, That is a good idea." and not long afterwards i ended up swing dancing with a dan jnr -lookalike type at a poetry party and it turned out he was a new book tv intern.i remember when i interupted zunior dave, who was kindly answering about a thousand questions for me, to randomly suggest he use more coupon offers, so as to measure the success of each marketing initative. a lot of my other then-bosses were getting annoyed at me for just that sort of unsolicted comment, so you can imagine my delight when, in the beat that followed dave ullrich said "That's a good idea!"

i'm finally finding stats

http://www.riaa.com/news/marketingdata/pdf/2005consumerprofile.pdf

The RIAA® Gold® and Platinum® Awards program was launched in 1958 in an effort to create a standard by which to measure sales of a sound recording. In the beginning, there was only a Gold® album award for the sale of 500,000 copies. As the industry grew, other awards were developed. The Platinum® award (1,000,000 sold) was created in 1976 and with the advent of the compact disc and the subsequent increase in sales, the Multi-Platinum™ award was created in 1984. On March 16, 1999, the RIAA® launched the Diamond® Awards, honoring sales of 10 million copies or more of an album or single.
* * *
"Elvis Presley, quite simply, is an American icon," said RIAA Chairman Bainwol. "As such an important musical, historical and cultural figure, we're thrilled to be able to make this announcement - his overall album sales total climbed to 117.5 million as announced Jan 2004.

on aug 20th 1977 Elvis Presley's funeral was held at his Graceland estate in Memphis, and more than 75,000 fans gathered outside.

so as i recall

music is sold without profit in itself, in order to sell the players and devices.
music is the marketing method for the technology sales profit.
*
EMI Group Plc said on Thursday Aug. 17), it had signed a deal to provide preloaded music videos on Microsoft Corp.'s soon-to-launch Zune digital media player.
*
i admit i DOOOO want to buy a new computer. and other gadgets. my sis just got one that takes pics and video, and my friend has a blackberry phone that is also a camera/video camera.

i think i see the future, and i feel borg

billboard reviews cdn:

http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/reviews/album_review_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003019295

i saw her this summer at hillside.

random facts

George Jones' wife was the t-shirt seller girl at some concert where he invited her on stage.

but was the audience pleased?

Not many musicians would go out on tour a month after releasing a double album of new material and proceed to play a 26-song set with only one track representing the latest record. But nobody ever said Frank Black was an average musician.

satisfaction vs sales.
do ppl really want to hear songs they know over new material??

i remember the day

ray laid the famous quote on us about what we were actually learning to do in novel school was BUILD a helicopter WHILE flying it.
*
i piped up enthusiastically with the just-realized-fact that whatever problems you experience in your project, no matter what the jam is, you can just INVENT your way out of it.

there's a TREE in there for god's sake

i drew a picture of it, along with some exposed brick and streetlamps visible through the window frames, while i wrote
no one cares?
1. grandpa was a carpenter
2. show me how
3. lake huron
4. broken down dream
5. half about a dog and half about a girl
6. lover don't leave

what about truth

aug 14 1985

Michael Jackson outbids Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono, at $47.5 million, to obtain catalog rights to 250 songs written by John Lennon and McCartney.

its only an hourish...

danny michel is a guelphite, but i didn't know that when i was sitting beside him upstairs at the riv when the maple lounge was running.

so, does that mean toronto is a guelph gig market?

i have sponsor sponsor sponsor thoughts.
what is my next step??? ( i do love a dance craze)

what i wish i could do next time list:
make sure it shows in the echo calendar
make sure it is mentioned the show before (also at buddy shows?)
make sure it is posted on the site
hand out handbills to the international students at the cult, and some place else i can't remember that i'd wished for a way to relay the info... the card tucked in my windsheild might not be such a bad idea. they could also be used as posters, in order to poster more. t'was the poster that got me the first time. was it in the music shops?

and now then, let's check Maple Music...

i should make a don't pull the plug

just re-start the program plea. why not get a sponsor?


i found kokanee fest wednesdays card on my windsheild when i came out of the acoustic series show. i said i feel like i own that bar, and i think it is time to stop keep the shows a secret!!!

what else can i tell ya?

i'd like to show

a new view of your business. it isn't pretty.

i'd like to help you use people, processes
and technology more efficiently than ever -

the right talent, right when you need it
effective creative function:
marketing strategy, corporate identity and brand. at EVERY touchpoint

fearless experimentation
creative problem solving
perpetual shared learning

"the canadian music industry's reluctance

(points i stole from matt galloway)
to wade into the digital music world"

sales song by song, of virus free, burnable downloads
the reality is consumers consume song by song (even me. i can't believe it.)
*
the more industry focuses on intiatives like this instead of filing lawsuits the better off we'll be.

high profile lawsuits

DID curtail on-line American music sharing habits

*
national post YELLOW clipping:

29% to 14%

The Candian recording industry is hoping its December statment that it would begin uding Canadians who have uploaded thousands of songs through free services will have chilling effect on people trading music illegally north of the US border.

country chart comment

The first fruit of Alan Jackson's collaboration with Alison Krauss, "Like Red on a Rose," has already found success on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart, where it is No. 23 in its fourth week. Now, the album of the same name has been confirmed for a Sept. 26 release via Arista

songwriting and winterson

some guy took every 3rd word from a letter his wife wrote him and made a song out of it.
i've heard a good one where a guys lists a bunch of types of conversations:
arguement, agreement, etc.
*
jeanette winterson on pamela wallin live said

1) she feels the author and the author's life is IRRELEVANT to the work
if the work is any good it will on after the writer so it doesn't matter who that person is...
she sends back a pre-printed card that says consider me dead when students write her to learn more about her in order to more fully comprehend her work.

2) she feels adultery is "crashingly bad manners"

3) she burns her rough notes and manuscripts because they weren't good enough to publish and she wants to stand by her published version

(she is sooooo cooooool)

how to make gravy

is a good song topic. and it mentions christmas! should i put it on the holiday fodder list?
i meant to review a paul kelly with greg quill show i saw at lee's palace. he was so good!

"his songs combine the widescreen sweep of real life with the intimate foucs of poignant, often painful detail..." -- rolling stone

"the best storyteller this side of dylan" -- brent raynor

straight ahead acoustic numbers with so much impact. memorable melodies with exquisite lyrics...

it sounds so easy...

Last year The 'diggers --Maize, guitarist Josh Finlayson, bassist Ron Macey, guitarist Paul MacLeod and drummer Joel Anderson -- started jamming again every Monday, working on new material, listening to music together and playing cards

extra facts

barrett was a reclusive, bedridden unmarried poet when browning began a correspondence with her, a series of love letters which led to an elopement (italy, a year later). they were married 15 years until she died in his arms and he went on to become famous...

i never knew that mary shelley eloped with percy bysshe. after he and his first wife moved into the house with godwin and his 16 yr old daughter, bride to be... how's THAT for gossip

* * *

yes and yes

The history of the Flying Burrito Brothers is long and checkered. The definitive line-up began with two ex-Byrds, Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman, and soon added a third, Michael Clarke. Both Gene Clark and David Crosby guested on recordings by the Burritos. Gene Parsons and Skip Battin would play with subsequent incarnations of the group. Indeed, the band went through a ridiculous number of iterations over the years, many of which had only the most tenuous of connections to the definitive Parsons-Hillman line-up. Ironically, even Gram Parsons had a fairly flimsy claim on the name when he took it over from a group of his former bandmates in 1968.

Was Gram in The Byrds?

After David Crosby left The Byrds, they performed as a trio for a while but felt they needed another player to round out their sound. Chris Hillman asked Gram to join The Byrds shortly after meeting him in a bank. Their next album was all country and they recorded in Nashville. The album, Sweetheart Of The Rodeo, was a breakthrough in pop music. Now more than 25 years later it is considered a classic. Gram quit working for the Byrds in London only six months after Chris and Roger had hired him following Gram's decision not to tour with the Byrds in South Africa.

The Members Section will ultimately contain eleven Chapters, one for each member of the Byrds who ever appeared on an official Byrds album. Additional Chapters will be added as they are completed in coming months.

Heart of Gold

is running today in my office as i work. about the fourth time now i'd guess... what a beautiful concert. what a beautiful sound. what beautiful f-ing songs. i think i've cried about four separate times now.

review to follow...

apolgize for the bad times
if you follow every dream you might get lost
listening to the birds on the roof instead of the news. and i'll hold you if you have a bad dream. and i'll hope that it doesn't come true.
*
i liked the stories from the guys that have been in the band for 35 years.
brain anyerism truths
chicken farmer ukele boy story
father's dementia and death mention

cashing in and out

Dylan Teams With iTunes For Pre-order Deal

Bob Dylan has teamed with Apple's iTunes Music Store to
offer fans that pre-order his new album through the
retailer first crack at tickets for shows on his fall tour

*

Nokia Buys Loudeye For $60M

Finnish mobile technology giant Nokia has struck a deal to
buy digital music technology vendor Loudeye Corp for about
$60 million.

meeting kate

was after i had been singing my fool head off at doppel's for days, as the housesitter, thinking the walls there WEREN'T paperthin, when, in fact, they were.

she is the next door loft neighbour at doppel's and we met in the hall both on our way places at the same time and chatted for a few seconds, connecting, and she shocked and delighted me saying "want to come in for a second?" and showing me around the art works in her space. then the next issue of scarlett showed up in my mail box just days later and those exact same walls were featured, with kate sitting in front of them on a yoga ball.

and not a few weeks after that MY walls showed up in a local paper and looked the exact same colour as her had.

talk about your imaginary mentors!

**
just before one of her shows, i came across a call for submissions fo the iloveyougalleries. i wrote sharon harris an e-mail telling her about kate and she said she had actually just made contact with her and there was to be a show.

ken babstock

I grew up, like every other young person, loving music -- pop music, indie rock and whatnot -- and finding out that some of these bands that you're listening to are reading your poetry is fantastic. It's wonderful. Leonard Cohen pallbearer at Layton's funeral. It appears that the link between musicians and poets is becoming nearly as strong as it was in the 1960s.

While he says, "I'm tone deaf and could never write a song if I had a gun to my head," he has appeared in more than one set of liner notes.

Babstock appears on the Rheostatics' last studio album, 2067, reading his poem "The Expected" in the track "Try to Praise This Mutilated World." "They plunked it down right inside the song, and it sounds gorgeous," says Babstock, who recognized all the potential problems inherent in mixing spoken word and music. "I was even wary of the idea, but they did a great job and it sounds lovely."

And there's more to come, so keep your eye out for the growing Babstock section at record stores near you. "Jim Bryson used one of my poems to kind of structure a song around," he says. "That's coming out on his new record."

* * *
babstock's mean
made me cry on the bus to brampton
and i carried
his letter for a sister wherever
wadded up like a tissue in my pocket.

don't i have a poem where his scars rubbed against the sheets?

once i said
in bitterness against bush
"i bet if women were in charge
we would fix the current problems
of the world" with kindness, and empathy
and without the violence you know
and my v. clever man friend said
"okay, i'll grant you that.
but i think then, we'd have
an entirely NEW set of problems."

remember when i impressed
my poetry school teacher
by defining synethesia?
well, wasn't i happy to read
of a character's experience of it
in his friend's moody food
*
POP QUIZ:

antonomasia
id of person by epithet or other term that is not name; the use of a proper name for a common noun.
i.e. kleenix = tissue great lover = don juan

synesthesia
: a concomitant sensation
: a subjective sensation or image of a sense (i.e. colour) other than the one being stimulated (i.e. sound)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Ken Babstock is a Canadian poet. He was born in Newfoundland and raised in the Ottawa Valley. He began publishing his poems in journals and anthologies, winning gold at the 1997 Canadian National Magazine Awards.

His first collection, Mean (1999), won him the Milton Acorn Award and the Atlantic Poetry Prize. He has since published a second collection, Days into Flatspin, which has also come in for high critical praise.

Ken Babstock worked as Poetry Faculty at the Banff Centre for the Arts and currently lives in Toronto. He is currently the poetry editor for the Toronto-based press House of Anansi
* * *

http://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=5388

early years
career
major works
awards and honours

including The Malahat Review, The Fiddlehead, PRISM International, and Canadian Literature

* * *
Any report on Ken Babstock should open with music. There was a Wilco dedication in his first book. 'Mean,' the title, came from the three meanings of the word: nasty; to intend something; and to be a midway-point between two extremes. Using these meanings would allow Babstock to work several metaphors, sometimes simultaneously.

in his u of t class, we discussed
metaphors
sylvia plath, 1932-1963

i'm a riddle in nine syllables,
an elephant, a ponderous house,
a melon strolling on two tendrils.
o red fruit; ivory, fine timbers!
this loaf's big with its yeasty rising
money's new minted in this fat purse.
i'm a means, a stage, a cow in calf.
i've eaten a bag of green apples,
boarded the train there's no getting off.

-- a poem of 9 lines of 9 sylables each. isn't she clever?


we workshopped two of my poems in ken's poetry school

room mate love letter was salvaged from my scrap heap because he introduced us to jory graham (sp). and he said he thought it was lovely but that i was making stylistic choices with it that i needed to be prepared to then follow thru on.

we did the southern aphorisms poem too, because i couldn't imagine one would be allowed to do such things, with being charged with Plagerism. he also said there is No Rule against adding in your own words and if it's MOSTLY found calling it a found poem.

(so, if i get arrested, blame ken).

he thought it was cheeky and you COULD see an author at work.

"-- onward!" he signed.

how to make a policy poem

1) gather a bunch of images/scraps that speak to you
2) put them together in a way that suits your fancy
3) list the most important words, phrases or messages
(tinker with the order as you feel you must)
4) post your latest collage poem on your blog


i couldn't tell if ray was impressed or disdainful, asking me the question.

then he said "a poet then?"

and i still couldn't tell.

have i ever told the story of the mutton birds packet? ray wrote back and he was honest and direct and encouraging with his suggestions (for once i included a SASE) but from his comments i could tell he hadn't LISTENED to the cd so i was a little bit disappointed in him. he turned out to be a good teacher though. just like his friend ken?
* * *
In his brilliant and long-awaited third collection, award-winning, critically acclaimed poet Ken Babstock finds momentary stays against our gathering darknesses in the irrepressible, acrobatic, free play of the mind. Poems of conscience collide with the problems of consciousness, the concrete and the conceptual find equal footing, and formal beauty mixes with imagistic brinksmanship.

Like Babstock's earlier work, Airstream Land Yacht testifies to the harrowing beauty of everyday experience while introducing an expansiveness of inquiry with linguistic bravado and a quiet grace. itself a love song to the wordless world.

"Babstock's ear remains finely attuned. Always adept at capturing speech cadences, in these new poems he plumbs as much from the jumpy rhythms of thought, and what gets sacrificed in accessibility is more than made up for in surprise. . . . one of the country's finest poets."
- Quill & Quire

" there's almost a tactile pleasure in how words sound, and a multitude of striking phrases vivid to both the ear and the eye . . . poetry that hums."
- Toronto Star

u of g newspaper

wrote me back.
"Hi Kim
We have received both your Letters to the Editor. Our next issue is September 14th, and your letters will be published then."

and, i got to invite a faculty member out for coffee out the deal too. i really hope she says yes!

* * *
The second letter read:
the recent article in the ontarion sure made the university library sound like a wonderful resource, but it didn't clarify who qualifies for access. if i take an open learning on-line course from equine guelph, can i get a card???

one of the faculty members at u of GUELPH has won the governor general's award TWICE and been made an officer of the Order of Canada, among other prestigious awards. yet, would you believe that the entire Guelph Public Library system has not one single copy of any of her works???? i have put in a "purchase suggestion" but in the meantime, i want to do my homework! who is eligible for a university library card??? here is a list of works i'd like to read:

The Crackwalker 1980
White Biting Dog 1984
I Am Yours 1987
Lion in the Streets 1990
Sled 1997
Perfect Pie 2000
Habitat 2001
Lost and Delirious 2001
Capture Me 2004
Enoch Arden, by Alfred Lord Jabber and his catatonic songstress 2005

so will the echo

provide a REVIEW of their recommended show?

and, p.s. at least they have the decency to publish an ad citing calendar girl needs while they let their calendar run amuk.

* * *
the link from matt's site to echo reads:

Ok folks, the Hillside Festival is here once again, and, as
per usual, the line-up for the weekend is stellar. So, I’ll
spare you my pontificating on the musical/cultural
importance of such a brilliant festival and get right down
to it. Here are your top ten reasons to get out to Guelph
Lake this weekend:

1.Matt Mays & El Torpedo
Matt Mays & El Torpedo released the best, (that’s right:
the BEST), Canadian album of 2005. I was already in
love with the album when I first saw them live, and I was
floored. A note perfect performance, ugly with
nonchalance and SKRREEE-ing guitars, and the
deepest grooves allowable in rock ‘n’ roll. Mays’ drawl
betrays his young age and you believe every word he
says and every yarn he spins. If Crazy Horse was a
genre, then Matt Mays & El Torpedo would win that
Grammy every year. The best thing about the band
though, is that they’re actually getting mainstream
success. A lot! This could be the band that changes the
landscape of Canadian rock. Let’s hope so. These
dudes will be on the Main Stage on Saturday, 8:25pm.
(PF)

Tour Figures and Music History

july 26 1943 - Rolling Stones lead singer Mick Jagger is born in Kent, England. The group, which takes its name from a Muddy Waters song, is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1989. The group does not receive a Grammy Award until 1986 when it is presented a Lifetime Achievement Grammy.

Touring is a global business, and figures reported to Billboard for mid-May, include the Rolling Stones' Bigger Bang tour at $147.3 million in grosses (from 45 shows in U.S. arenas and international stadiums). The Rolling Stones will return to North American for another leg to launch on Sept. 20 at Boston's Gillette Stadium, and dates will be sponsored by RadioShack. With nearly $150 million in grosses and 1.1 million in attendance, the Rolling Stones are predicted to be the top touring band in the world for 2006, and this the top-grossing trek in history.

i really did. dye it pink. and i spent almost all my money at the bar, and then haggled with shannon lyon for a cd from what i had left in my pocket. it's pretty good. i'm about to write a review and send it into the echo. and i think he might be coming back next week. i'm gonna check his website.
"superb!" "magnifique!" isn't the dual language sticker clever quoting altcountrytab.com with five big stars?

i like a performer who can and does respond positively to audience input and requests. yet, i also begrudge the reward of a repeat song, guitar stings, that was played earlier in the set -- get to the show on time next time would have been a good lesson for latecomers, in my opinon!
fan out of tune
hate the dealer when you get the losing card
what part of do not kill you didn't hear right
AUG 16 beauty cry
smile me down
take a little time
boomtown

i was sitting beside a kooky long haired guy who was recording it, and who i actually gave my address to so he can mail me a copy of the show and i really would like a copy and he was making such a kind offer... i did a lot of heckling. did you hear a loud mouthed introvert commenting alot?

demo of 17 yr old pic with arm around ac

got a good feeling
blue eyed train
banana belt
never slept in a car, lied about being outdoor type
townes van sant like
free capo out of the deal
geography doesn't always rhyme hwy 85
lick your own vs. lake huron
waist down views, niave
*
i’m glad you came out. and i'm sorry i did not clue in. were you in shorts and sandals?i thought it was a pretty good night out. it felt like going out to the maple lounge, but safer and easier and friendlier...

RED TOP 821-1700


* * *
i should take the loud mouth heckler habits and SING instead? i want to, i really do...

after i emptied my pockets out finally buying a cd yesterday, i gave my real surface mail address to a stranger who says he'll send me a copy of the show. but not to worry because the mics were facing forward...

Q. Are you the girl from The Record?

people keep asking me this when I show up places to make notes about them. Apparently, I bear a resemblance to some local (OFFICIALLY EMPLOYED) reporter girl...

shotgun show review (not even sent to the Echo)

"Love is all that matters at the end of the day," was the message that came through loud and clear last Wednesday, up-upstairs at Van Gogh's Ear in downtown Guelph. Laughs came a close second and an audience favourite was Lucas Stag's song about Dancing with Lily. He used only a small selection of harmonicas and an acoustic guitar but he covered a diversity of subjects with a wide variety of tempos and rhythms, and performed a request for Maple Tree.

Shannon Lyon promised a rock 'n roll show next week, and ran through a set quite similar to the week before, about 12 songs, many of them very sad and yet rather romantic. "Nice how we cried"? Ah yes. If only there were more eyes on him for this wonderful series.

Downtown Guelph - art on the street festival

Did you see the promo postcards and poster for the event? What a neat and truly artful graphic! I agree with the ranter that wrote the Echo about the importance of highlighting local talent versus selections like the cover feature they did run, on Magneta Lane...

NQ Arbuckle performed a good hot set -- so enjoyable their performance alone was worth the trip downtown. Smoothly promoting their merch for sale and upcoming gigs, while kids danced and adults grinned in appreciation. 'Should we do our trippy 7 minute song?' was asked right before they launched into a terrific Band Tribute type song to close out their alloted time, yeehaw time flies when yer having fun!

What a great way to spend a fantastic Saturday! The Downtown Guelph, the Art on the Street event featured over 100 artists, great music (Royal wood, NQ Arbuckle & Magneta Lane) as well as a sidewalk sale, sidewalk chalk displays and other random acts of art!

echo shotgun (show review)

Shannon Lyon
July 5, early show
3rd floor Van Gogh's Ear
10 Wyndam St N

To kick off the well postered, month long Shannon Lyon residency, there was good music playing up-upstairs at Van Gogh's, until it was shut off at 10:10 for the 9:00 show, advertized as 9:00 SHARP on the website. For this town, an early show, and condolences are owed to those who missed out.

Bob Egan (formerly of Wilco and Blue Rodeo), played less than 10 songs for the first set, but what great songs they were! With a surprisingly wide variety of instrumentation -- long, atmospheric musical composites accompany his accomplished and versatile vocals, in unique and intriguing song constructions. He played a mix of material from both of his LPs and from the six song EP.

From the steel guitar and the drum machine, to experimental pedal weirdness, a slide, an acoustic and a "National Steel" guitar, Egan held the full audience's rapt attention. What great music. He said you can buy his recordings at www.bobegan.com, and I say you should, he is so clearly talented.

Lyon played a full set as well, with good, strong, straight up acoustic guitar, harmonica and singing. He is sincere and seems comfortable performing, and put on a good show. From songs he said he wrote in the backyard, or on his bicycle to new tunes from his forthcoming record (that he invited Egan to join him on stage for) he delighted both new and existing, old and of-age-younger fans, all of whom seemed glad they'd taken their seats so early! Is it true Steam Whistle is a local beer? An hour's drive would be well worth such strong musicianship in such intimate quarters. But it was over by midnight - don't miss the full show next week! Wednesdays in July have never sounded better!
* * *
July 12 Van Goghs - 'Acoustic-Series' - Doors8pm w /Lucas Stag
July 19 Van Goghs - 'Acoustic-Series' - Doors8pm w/ Chris Giesbrecht & OX . (MAIN FLOOR)
July 26 Van Goghs - 'Acoustic-Series' - Doors8pm w/ Andrew Cash

record hunters

Toronto Treasure Map (courtesy of Sonic Boom)

CD Replay
523 Bloor St W
416-516-0606

Sonic Boom
512 Bloor St W
416-532-0334

Second Spin
386 Bloor St W
416-916-7746

Flash and Crash
499 Bloor St W
416-323-8883

Play De Records
357 Yonge St
416-586-0380

She Said Boom
372 College
416-944-3224

Penguin Music
2 McCaul
416-597-1687

Second Vinyl
2 McCaul
416-977-3737

Koss Records
229 Queen St W
416-593-8523

Queenstessential
559 Queen St W
416-703-5454

Rotate This620 Queen St W
416-504-8447

* * *

What about that Pandemonium on Dundas near Runnymede?

More Local Music Reviews?

A Stones Throw Festival, took place in Hillsburgh, on Saturday Jun 24.

They had promised free beer 1-3pm and then that my friends, The Houseplants would play 9ish. And, did they! I can now tell you I was sincerely glad to be invited to this day-to-night spectacle o' music. Wonderful music on a beautiful 100 acre farm. Where camping was available and indeed suggested. A PWYC event that delivered, including performances by cts including Grande Fir, Heather Needham, and The Campfire Poets. I'd seen many of these acts at the Theatre in Orangeville the night before, where I most struck by a fairly new Houseplants tune starring Perry Joseph (formerly of the Juno-nominated Tabarruk) on vocals, about "I know how much you miss her and I know how hard you tried."Clearly, he tried. And, was successful, in pulling together a successful and fully enjoyable fundraiser. He was most gracious and comfortable of any of the performers, perhaps because of his duel role as host. The whole show was his brain child and was a good idea well executed, for a good cause. The girl who opened was a really good musician and she had a nice voice but what really stole my attention that evening was the funny faces made by the singing for their supper guys. Take the 905 and put it in the country and great voices and great musicianship is what we get I guess.

Joseph explained "About one month ago very dear friend Donato (Dan) Scipione, a local musician and teacher, was involved in a very serious car accident, and he won't work for quite a while. All of his friends are trying to help one of our family, in the way they know best... which is to play some music and invite others to come, to be a part of this barn raising!"

citizen and banner announced:

"get your own writing partner"

late night with nate

i like how it's dark on the so-called stage. THAT should make it painless, don't you think?

if you're new to room

nate coles said, "then you should know this is an Open Stage." and he made the ever increasing in number audience aware of the sign up sheet on the table at the edge of the stage. "when you're number's up, then the Stage Is Yours..." he added encouragingly(?) in between stunning songs of his own. i think he opened with a Rheo's cover about how love is endless and i like the way he sounds. plays and sings. and writes i guess... what unique song structures.

and, i like the way he is so helpful in loaning his guitar, but then also considerate enough that he trusted us and left the audience to it -- it was passed around to Rank half song surviving Amatuers while he was out back blissfully unawares and then safely returned to some of the trustworthy regulars in time for his return to supervize and introduce...

overall i thought it seems a nice welcoming opportunity/community he is initiating there weekly.

"sign the list and things will happen. i'm just up here making up bullshit til you do"

Jim Bryson (Spill, Print Review)

the north side benches, The Orange Record Label

What a great album! This recently released recording is well worth the wait. Bryson has been toiling away, creating his own brand of old fashioned heart and soul in the wilds of Ottawa for a decade or so, and prior to this release, he was best known as the guitar wrangler in Kathleen Edward’s band and on her Failer album. As a follow up to his independent album in 2000 this is a collection of eleven melancholy pop songs with a catchy, cheerful, country twang and a dash of Replacements-influenced rock.

Every soulful song is a keeper, but the real power is in the quieter, less straight-forward arrangements. Co-producing and adding the organ/piano/synth touches as well as crafting the songs on which he sings and plays the guitar, Bryson is clearly gifted. He has a knack for a soft opener that becomes more powerful with dynamic and seductive repetition. A guest vocal appearance from Blue Rodeo’s Jim Cuddy is an appropriate added touch on the dream “Somewhere Else,” one of a few love songs and not many happy endings. “Life can be sweet if I want it to be” sings an appealing Wilco-esque voice, with most of the hope and optimism heard on the album.

With songs about being tired right from the very start and some of his bravest mistakes, Bryson claims he would consider success to be a week off after a tour. Until we get a chance to hear him live in Toronto again, put the north side benches on your stereo and let it play over and over.
-- kim logue

The Knitters are John Doe, Exene Cervenka and DJ Bonebrake of the legendary punk band X, plus grammy winner Dave Alvin!

Apparently, they made a goof ball, side project recording that has been popular with a cult following, who, after 20 years clamouring for more, are finally able to enjoy The Modern Sounds of... The Knitters. A recent release includes Burning House of Love and Born To Be Wild. They are appearing this Sunday at Lee's.

I am a huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge fan of Exene's solo record. Which includes weird spoken word pieces as well as poetic songs with both country and punk stylings. I sing along with every sylable everytime. Can't wait to check out the collective in Toronto this weekend.

i love tribute albums. i broke thru with wilco because of billy b and mermaid avenue. and now i am a nice big fat wilco fan (who regrets not getting up off her couch to go see them at lee's when i had the nxne pass). i also broke thru with pearl jam because of a tribute album - that cover of crazy mary by victoria williams is one of my favourite all time songs i think.

Neil Young's Heart of Gold

Shows distilled by Academy Award-winning director Jonathan Demme into the concert film Neil Young: Heart of Gold

The film captures the 60-year-old Young in grand form alongside such longtime musical comrades as Emmylou Harris, steel guitarist Ben Keith, keyboardist Spooner Oldham and Young's wife, Pegi, on backup vocals. "The idea evolved of doing a beautiful old dream concert," said Demme, an Oscar winner "...his dream venue, his dream fellow performers." Demme and Young are old friends themselves. They first collaborated in 1993.

The Globe and Mail Posted on Thursday, January 26, 2006

Amer Diab

Amer Diab was right when he said not to worry about FINDING a harmony, that instead one "should just see where your voice lays." Before that, when I went out to check out his live show, he joked "here's something I've always wanted to say. THIS ONE is for the ladies..." which made me laugh and which made his girlfriend mad, since we were basically the crowd taking in the set.

I e-mailed him a few times while working on the review of his album for the Spill, and he was kind enough to give me a few music lessons. some of them were e-mail answers, once he came to my place with his guitar, and once i went to their place to sing in front of him...

What I learned was
1) rockstars are just guys who like soup
2) maybe one can just start hanging around with a guitarist
3) let it ring more
4) it's over when you say it's over
5) take as long as you want

Nik Tjelious is an expert freelance recording engineer living in Guelph, and working throughout Southern Ontario. The house engineer at Ken Whiteley's Casa Wroxton Studio in Toronto for the past twelve years, he also works in other studios and on location (in homes, rehearsal spaces, concert venues, clubs and even outdoors) and specializes in recording acoustic instruments He is also member of Jughead, the ultimate party band, via their infectious fusion of bluegrassm country and Maritime stylings. They scored a gold single with “Hocky Song” and released their DVD at the Legendary Horseshoe Tavern in January 2004.

On The Record -- Jimmy

James Paul is an expert engineer at the Rogue Studios and owner/operator of Rogue Folk Productions Ltd,. The company's clients have included Bare Naked Ladies, Alanis Morissette, Blue Rodeo, Kyp Harness, The Cash Brothers, Hawksley Workman and Jack Breakfast. A warm, relaxing creative atmosphere (the most inspiring kitchen table in Ontario), downright reasonable rates and unrivaled blend of unique instruments, vintage gear amid a museum quality collection of antique radios and other curiosities.

Q1. Are you looking for clients? How do you look for artists?
Q2. How do you work with a band they come to you?
Q3. What impact do you see as fewer and fewer industry people are in it for the art?
Q4. What impact does big biz consolidation have on the health of the music industry?
Q5. What impact does the down turn in the sales of prerecorded and prepackaged music have on your business?
Q6. What room is there room for the entrepreneur, person with a good idea, to break into business today?
Q7. What has changed since you moved from your Niagra Street location?
Q8. I have long held that the vibe in your permanent garage sale type studio is a tangible thing you can hear in the albums. Hawksley Workman called the Rogue an artist’s playground. Do you feel you mentored Hawksley Workman? How did that come to be? What is the impact/influence we could listen for?
Q9. What projects/acts have been your favourite to work on?
Q10. What is coming up?