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Jenn Jazzing in T.Dot with 1 Million of Her Newest Friends!  This year marked the 20th anniversary of the Beaches International Jazz Festival in Toronto, and my first that I was able to clear the schedule and attend. I love and live for the summer music festivals and try to make it to as many as possible; and being that this was on my "must experience" list for a long time, put it on the priority list. Wow, I didn't know what I was missing; and will make sure I'm there every year to follow. See All of Jenn at Beaches Jazz Festival I have no knowledge of previous years to compare it to, but feel the name isn't fully representative of the music. While yes, there's jazz and each artist's interpretation of it, there's so much more - Blues, Funk, Soul, Reggae, Swing; the list goes on and on. But the diversity of styles of music at each different festival is increasing these days as the lines get more and more blurred between genres. One now needs to understand that the name may be the style the event was originally focused on and what they still try to cultivate and promote, but that there's always so much more. Otherwise, as one artist I was discussing this with stated - "everything would just be called a music festival which is really non-descript, and would lose some focus". Personally, being a self proclaimed music junkie, I hear of any festival and run to my laptop to scope it out, regardless of the moniker it's given and see how I can squeeze it in my schedule. With over 700 artists - both emerging and established award winners, events taking place in multiple locations in the Beaches area of Toronto, activities for children, workshops, a 5, 10, and 20 kilometre run, lots of vendors (I had to curb the shop-aholic tendencies a few times) and of course food and beer, Beaches International Jazz festival has something for everyone, and the best part - for free! I still do not understand Torontonians affinity to roasted corn on the cob at these festivals, but there was plenty of that to be had, as well as many other culinary delights curb side. Queen Street East is closed off from traffic in the evenings from six until shortly after eleven, when 50 bands line a 2 kilometre stretch and entertain the masses in every age bracket. And I do mean from young to old, it's truly a heart warming moment to see a child (actually many children) boogieing away in the street in a genuine display of enjoyment, and see the elderly couples grooving within the crowd. Room for dancing was always left between the crowd and the bands and there were many free spirited souls who showed their appreciation of the music. With over a million people who attended, by the time the street became elbow to elbow, the dance areas were the best spots to be. The weather was threatening to put a damper on the festivities, but cleared up in the late afternoon each day, just in time for set up, and in no way curbed people's enthusiasm; the ambience and vibe of the crowd was in true Canadian spirit - considerate, respectful, fun-loving, unbridled appreciation of the music. It's well thought out as far as timing of the sets for the different acts, being they line the street in a short distance, alternating set times for ones in close proximity to each other prevent any overflow of sound and make stage hopping a breeze to take in as much as possible. With so much to see, hear and do, and to try and squeeze it all into three days, careful planning, speed walking, little sleep, and caffeine are my recommendations if you want to experience all that Beaches International Jazz Festival has to offer. That is, until I figure out a way to be in six places at once. Jenn Martin

Canada Day Fun on July 1st at Harbourfront we witnessed a subtle taste of Canadian cultural nuance. Fresh as a daisy Basia Bulat who is nominated this year for The Polaris Music Award performed, in a "proud to be Canadian" red dress, singing like an angel and humble in her appreciation for the attention the audience eagerly fed back to her. It was all so very Canadian. Then came Martha Wainright; how do I explain this "one of these things is not like the other" scenario? I hope it's true that Martha is her own person because I don't know her and I would like to think her "take it as it comes" persona is the real deal, just because that kind of confidence, acceptance and resolve she exudes is damn attractive. But even if it's a bull-shit facade, this woman is fucking funny. The humour in the title of her CD, "I know you're married, but I've got feelings too" is a great start but the edgy repartee with the "all-ages" crowd on Family-Day by the lake was almost as brilliant as the well crafted songs. Martha is an entertainer in a family of entertainers. If she ever felt taxed by the question, "how do I stand out in this household, let's just say, Martha found her own special mark, drawing on a range of talents that we will call Céline Dion meets Phylis Diller - Martha Wainright is great entertainment. Happy Freakin' Canada Day. See more pictures HERE

Thursday June 26 saw the release of the new Modern Boys Modern Girls CD and IndieCan took in the fun. Akira Alemany is proud of "I might as well Break It" but he's already preparing songs for his next release. We heard some working versions of some of what would become this new CD back in Episode 17 when MBMG performed songs including "Where's your boyfriend?" There has been a modernization of MBMG in the look and line-up of the band. This version of boys and girls was debuted at NXNE this year and the CD release would have been their second ever performance. Tight sound and high energy; the crowd was definitely into it. The sound of the new CD is different - more sophisticated maybe. Frankly there was rawness in an older song "Edge of My Blade" that hits me like being cornered by a nymphomaniac; reckless, messy, risky, but enticing and irresistible. Songs 7, Tell Them Everything and 8, A Hammond Organ Singing have that rogue MBMG of yore flavour. So does # 6, Where's Your Boyfriend? as a matter of fact and I noticed on at least one of those tracks some familiar MBMG alumni vocals in the mix. Over this entire band has momentum working in the right direction, supportive press, a legitimate following, an ability to think outside the box when branding themselves and some substance to their art. All in all, this is a real album. It makes sense from front to back and instead of being a collection of songs, it's a theme - not that I have heard it enough to know the meaning of the inside of joke "I might as well break it." I am sure it's there. I like a record that sounds good the first time and profound the second time. There has to be something that makes me say to myself, "now what was that he/she was getting at?" Hear MBMG live at IndieCan last year CLICK HERE, More on Modern Boys Modern Girls See more pictures, wink, wink ....

IndieCan Radio and Meg-A-Music Toronto Celebrate 2nd Anniversary in Style @ Tattoo Rock Parlour. May 29th IndieCan celebrated with the second Birthday-Bash following our May 15th event, also at Tattoo. We partied with Meg-A-Music as they also are entering their third year in Canadian independent music. The night started how it should. Rayna, who was our Episode 2 "live at IndieCan" guest performed, while Moe Berg looked on who was IndieCan's Episode I "industry insider." It was so fitting to be putting on a show for some brand new IndieCan bands and fans with some of the early visionaries in the house. For me personally, it mattered a lot. Moe wasn't there to have a drink on us, he was working like the rest of us. He is working with Photocell who performed Birthday Bash DEUX - the sequel who are re-branding themselves. As Stutter, the core of this band were the big winners at the 2007 Toronto Independent Music Awards. Anniversaries are a time for reflection and I'll take the time to offer two observations. First is that the music and music makers in this country is in great shape. 120 different countries tune in to this web site every week to download the latest IndieCan Radio show. Without a dime spent on promotion music fans found us and I understand they are showing support to our artists in a meaningful manner. Traffic to our site is up 7-fold since last anniversary and that feels good. Our first anniversary saw Tacoma Redd, Anti-Hero and Tin Bangs perform. We screened "What is Indie?" and we had a good, loyal turn out. The difference this year is I was meeting new-music fans for the first time at each concert, who came up to me to tell me what they thought of our show and why they wanted to come to the show. Everyone at our first Birthday Bash was someone I knew I already or someone who tagged along with someone I leaned on to come out and support us. An organic audience is forming that either wasn't there before. I think that means something. Also performing at Bash 2 were Jon Cohen Experimental from Montreal, Isle of Thieves and Drowning Girl. We raised over $1000 for People afflicted with HIV/AIDS in Toronto so thanks to those who came, those who sponsored and those who enthusiastically rounded up our sponsors. I will let Jesse recognize them individually in the review of May 15 which follows. For a pictorial review of the Two nights that rocked us into year three CLICK HERE and depending on the speed of your hook-up, you might want to poke around with something else if you hate waiting. Ths photo gallery is exceptional quality and I just couldn't discard more than I did, so I hope you enjoy them. Joe Chisholm, founder   I'm sitting in the Tattoo Rock Parlour, Queen Street West 's shee-shee club/concert venue, for the Birthday Bash and 2nd anniversary of Meg-A-Music and INDIECAN Radio. The event was a hit, celebrating great music moments past and achievements to date, as well as making a salutary glance into the near future, brining what it may to the INDIECAN community and its righteous constituents. Bands played, fans won some awesome raffle-draw prizes (including a Karaoke DVD machine and an acoustic Epiphone guitar), attendance records for an indoor event hosted by INDIECAN were set, and the Missing Children Society of Canada made some Joe and Jesse from IndieCan + Kelowna from The Verge, XM Satelite Channel 52 money and some new friends. Of course, none of it would be possible without sponsors, so here we go with the thank-yous: Long & McQuade, Pamela Sorrenti & George Veziris, Hot House Cafe, Diane Kroe Boutique, The Fashion District, Stand Alone Records, Cineplex Odeon and Wendy Rombough. Shout outs also go to Kelowna from XM Satellite Radio, Channel 52 The Verge who held court with the crowd and helped give away some of the prizes, Mary Gilbert and Julianne for months of prep and everyone else for their time and donations to help us raise money for Missing Children in Canada. A special salute to Meg-A-Music Mary is needed ... there's something about Mary. Maybe its just that she supports indie music so instinctively, despite the challenges inherent therein. It takes a certain dogged determination to support emerging music, but in a world where major record labels are becoming dinosaurs, it is the ordinary and often unsung heroes on the ground, fighting the good fight, that are the promoters and protectors of many a talented artist. These individuals, of which Mary and Joe Chisholm are two (though there are teams of others), are driven by the need to see artists succeed where they should - they are in the business of making it happen where it can. At the same time, when emerging music artists achieve great things, organizations like INDIECAN and Meg-A-Music have done their job well. An American President of a bygone era, Calvin Cooleridge once famously proclaimed: "Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful people with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan "press on" has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race". Sarah Burton's Six wow the Tattoo While INDIECAN may not be solving the problems of the human race per se, we have definitely pressed on through a great number of challenges and obstacles to bring you some of the "best music you've never heard", and we think that is noble. It would have been easy enough to rest of the laurels of our current knowledge or the promise of talent, but, and we tell bands this all the time, without hard work and tenacity a career in the music business would be a short-lived one - events like the Birthday Bash celebrate 2 years of hard work promoting indie music. The artists which took the stage to celebrate this accomplishment with us and ring in a new year were all terrific, though each had a unique offering for its audience. Andre Skinner and his "Canteen Knockout" took the stage in the leanest form I've seen them yet - Andre on acoustic guitar with a peddle steel player to boot. We heard some freshly minted material that was performed just as comfortably as their more tried and true catalogue of alt/rock with generous twang. Sarah Burton and her Six captured the audience with her multi-blended brand of indie music, drawing on a number of influences from country, pop, and rock. Burton 's lyrics may be peppered with sarcasm and wordplay, but in either case its fresh and honest. The diverse instrumentation drew attention to these witty lyrics like a good frame. Little Sunday blasted out their radio-friendly alt-rock sound with ease. They've recently been paired with acts such as Thornley, Honeymoon Suite, and See Spot Run, demonstrating that their msuic fits with Canadian artists that are popular today. They had a great rapport with an audience, which showed lively support through out the set. It was the last show for Sam Hell, but before the ice was set, Hell rose one last time in a towering inferno on the TRP stage, delighting fans who called for encores and snapped up merchandise. "Let's do something nasty, let's mash it up" said Jordan, lead singer and guitarist, as they launched into their second last number, highlighting their affinity for crunching out lean athletic riffs on top of compelling lyrics and melodies. The Joys set came last, topping off the evening. Having been recently certified gold by the Canadian Recording Industry Association, their playing, polished sound and catchy songs is a testament to their deserved recognition. The audience that night couldn't have agreed more. Overall, it was an honor and a pleasure celebrating the anniversary with such a great line-up of artists and a packed house of fans. It is a high watermark for INDIECAN that we couldn't recognize everyone in the crowd that night - the 1st anniversary party relied heavily on an audience of friends, family, associates, and acquaintances, brought out in some cases by strong encouragement. It is a great sign that we're moving to place where we can host events and the music will speak for itself, that people don't have to be brought out on called favours! But I digress. Before Little Sunday's last song, lead singer Rick Farrell asked: "you're still partying tonight?" To Little Sunday, and to Indie bands and fans alike, we proudly affirm, yes...yes we are. INDIECAN will continue to bring the best of new music and industry insider information to fans and students of new music. From Team IndieCan to fans - thanks so much for the 2 great years. Here's to the next, may it be as banner and bodacious as the past and with ample room for improvement. After all, we're only human. All we can do it "press on" and encourage others to do the same. Maybe we won't solve all the problems of the human race, but we'll certainly liven-up the music industry and give talented (sometimes even genius) artists a chance at their deserved place in it. Jesse Chisholm- Beatson, INDIECAN Correspondent P.S. If you missed this one, there will be another show at Tattoo rock Parlour on May 29th. Hope to see you there for Toronto Independent Music Winners, Photocell (formerly Sutter) Jon Cohen Experimental from Montreal, Rayna, more music; more prizes more memories for a life-time!

Raine Maida, Billy The Kid and Jared Paul @ The Phoenix March 24th, 2008

Between 1994 and 2005, Our Lady Peace put out 7 records which sold over 4 million copies with Columbia - then - Sony which was followed up with "A Decade," a mostly greatest hits CD. You wouldn't knock someone for saying "what's all the fuss about - life with a major label isn't perfect, but they have been good to me and why mess with it?" But as an indie artist, Raine says, "I'm not exactly sure where my record fits in this musical climate. For the first time in my musical journey I own the music fully and completely. This excites me. I'm not sure where it fits in today's musical landscape. I take comfort in that."

Maida generously spent time with IndieCan at Redline Recorders Studio and reflected on his life with wife Chantal Kreviazuk, their two boys they are raising, the consciousness they are raising with War Child Canada, plus, we were given a private performance from The Hunters Lullaby CD. Maida was passionate about what he has seen abroad and how "it gets into your pours and you can't just wash it off when you get home. I don't want to make a narcissistic look-at-me video - I am so not into that right now." Instead, Raine got excited about the idea of raising $30,000 to rebuild a school in The Congo and he busked the streets of Toronto, made a video of that and warmed the first $22,000 out of the hearts of passers by on the first day alone. Later that night at The Phoenix Raine said, "I have never been so proud to be Canadian." Billy The Kid, an artist Raine is currently producing and touring with is seen jamming "Yellow Brick Road" on the streets of T.Dot in this low-tech, high-touch video. The song takes a playful poke at youth's "near life experience…"

I remember the days and we'd talk for hours
We were young we thought we had super powers
We weren't our problems, our age, or our pay checks
And we weren't taking anyone's shit
If I know now what I knew then
I'd back up and do it all again
I would take a vow, take it real slow
Take a ride down the yellow brick road
Come on, come on rise up, and come on come on rise up. Raine Maida, Yellow Brick Road from The Hunters Lullaby

Later that night I headed out to The Phoenix to see the punk to folk transformation (or other side) of Billy The Kid, get some schooling fromSlam Poet Jared Paul and get the whole band, whole set version of what we selfishly enjoyed earlier at Redline. Raine and I share a symbiotic rejuvenation from what is going on in poetry today and it's no surprise as it seems that all over North America Slam Poetry nights are buttering big city's cultural bread. I can't say I am completely on board with Raine's declaration that poetry is more relevant for him right now than music. But one thing Maida loves about poetry is how we can go from morning news to poetic expression than night. Music takes three weeks at best to be written, produced, mixed and presented and sometimes the punch line is lost in the latency.

Now, back to the show: I was down with a softer-folkier Billy The Kid, but I want to be on record to say that I am still OK with the message at 155 beats-per-minute and a "fuck you" finger being waived irresponsibly into the crowd, so Billy, don't be a hero, don't make the punk you a zero. I am just saying I welcome this acoustic thing as a righteous new expression, but lets' hope we aren't forsaking from whence we came.

Jared ripped us a new one and we cheered wildly. Why is it that being held accountable, responsible and being willing to see more analytically and compassionately is so palatable with the right syncopation? I don't know, but I felt bad, committed to my fellows to do more and cheered like a monkey.

Team Raine Maida included Kreviazuk keys and more. The sound was big and the message was sincere. The crowd welcomed this new sound although we had to be goaded into singing the new songs. "You sound like Richmond Hill (Toronto suburb)!" Maida snipped. Three 905ers cheered widely but it was explained to us that this was a slam and self-respecting Torontonians shouldn't take it lightly. The crowd complied. No such antagonizing was needed when it was time to sing back, "We are all Innocent" in which case the Phoenix faithful rivalled the Phoenix sound-system. The crowd adored the encore performance opening with a Chantal Kreviazuk song before returning to the night's "Maina-eventa." After the show finished and the crowd waned, we got to meet the two who Raine most wanted to express himself to in this record, his young sons who seemed to be taking road life with stride and having a back stage blast holding court with the crowd.

CANADIAN MUSIC WEEK 2008 - some thoughts and reviews from Andre Skinner

Plants and Animals (Thursday March 7th - The Horseshoe)

I figured I would get things started off right and hit the Legendary Horseshoe Tavern to check out Plants and Animals and The Acorn on Thursday March 7th, the official kickoff night for Canadian Music Week’s showcases. Not surprisingly the venue was at capacity and Plants and Animals had just hit the stage. The band truly showed that they are worthy of all re recent praise that has surrounded the band online and in print. They delivered a very well executed tight set of intelligent-roots-rock that the crowd was absolutely loving. They played tunes from their latest album “Park Avenue” such as “Bye Bye Bye”, “Faerie Dance” and “New Kind of Love” that had jaws dropping and feet moving. Plants and Animals are an amazing creative force to see live, the band is a simple trio that mix keyboards, percussion, drums, bass, layered electric guitars and awesome harmonies. Now is the time to catch these guys live as they are touted to be the next big thing out of Montreal.

The Acorn (Thursday March 7th - The Horseshoe Tavern)

Always a treat to listen to, the Acorn have a style and sound that is all their own and is hard to pin down in a specific category. They we're playing with an ensemble of talent that looked about 8 strong if I remember correctly. The stage was packed, as was the Horseshoe Tavern, with hard drinking patrons and industry folk all grooving to the eccentric sound of this brilliant Ottawa band.

Lead man Rolf Klausener is an awesome performer and most suited for the lead role in the band as he naturally barks jokes and banter between songs before ripping into songs and putting as much vocal passion as he does physical passion to his stage show. There was never a dull moment during the set and The Acorn did a fantastic job keeping the crowd engaged.

Grady rocks Tatoo Rock Parlour hard!

Grady

(Thursday March 7th - Tattoo)

The last time I saw Gordie (Grady) Johnson was with Big Sugar at the Horseshoe Tavern back in 2002 and he absolutely blew the roof off the place with his screaming arsenal of Gibson guitars and blistering loud amps. He now leads the Austin southern rock trio Grady who are louder and dirtier than any of his past musical endeavors. The band really knows how to throw a party, and they got things started right by playing tunes off their new cd "A Cup of Cold Poison" then moving into songs off their debut cd “Y.U so shady?” then busting out the show stopper “Digging a Hole” the Big Sugar hit which got place going totally crazy and had most the people singing along. This was the first Canadian show for their new drummer Nina Sing who came out swinging and rocked the house hard. She also had a great stage piece with her vintage blue Ludwig Vistalite drums with a huge bull scull hanging off the front of the kit. Gordie Johnson and Ben Richardson are the perfect duo up front both sporting big black Stetsons and all black attire; the chemistry is truly a sight to behold. Grady was definitely one of the highlights of CMW 08.

United Steel Workers of Montreal (Friday March 8th - The Silver Dollar)

Wee-Werk Records showcased their roster of talent to a packed house at the Silver Dollar Room where I caught the tail end of the Burning Hell's set. I was in the building however to check out the United Steel Workers of Montreal and after reviewing their amazing cd “Kerosene & Coal” a few months back and hearing great things about their live show, I could not wait to hear what they had in store. USWM, are a very unique band; they are exactly what their name exemplifies, hard working, hard living people. They sing for the people, they represent the folks that work tireless days and don’t complain, but compensate with heavy drinking and good times. Listening to them live I think of Hamilton Steel workers, I picture dirty Detroit auto plan workers who will spend half their lives working in harsh environments to make end meet.

The two lead singers of the band both have heavy raspy and seasoned voices that tell great real life stories of love, hard work and weekend binge drinking with the odd tale of drinking and driving thrown in for good measure. This band is raw, to the point, and is very confident in what they deliver. The female lead of the band, Felicity Hamer, is an irresistibly sexy woman who comes off strong with her rough whiskey voice and good looks, she is an integral part of the live show. On the opposite side of the stage there is big o'l Gern, who is a husky individual with a huge personality that resonates out with direct force and his countless stories are from the heart and sincere. I couldn’t have asked for a better show.

Dearly Beloved (Friday March 8th - Tattoo)

The highly anticipated Dearly Beloved hit the stage at 12:45 to a capacity crowd at Tattoo, and really turned up the heat in the room. They played most of the tunes off their latest cd “Repo Repo”, which is an absolutely awesome album.

The lighting that supported the stage show was incredible, with blues, reds, oranges and green lights hitting the band at intermittent moments, creating a lager than life atmosphere for the band. Dearly Beloved is really fun to watch, they have lead singer Rob Higgins all over the stage getting right into the music and moving like he means it from the heart, while sexy Nina Chow is on the opposite side of the stage doing backing vocals, swinging her hair, and shaking her ass to the hard rocking catchy tunes. The music was as tight as I could have hoped for, and they delivered in a big way.

Steve Hill (Friday March 8th - Tattoo)

Just when I thought the night was over after the Dearly Beloved set, I saw a band setting up and had no clue who they were so did not pay much mind until the started BLARING through the PA system. HOLY SHIT! WHO THE HELL'S THIS? Were the carefully chosen words I had for my friend who came along for the CMW festivities. I proceeded to take some video and photos of this unbelievably hard rocking and talented trio. The band was Steve Hill, and they put on an absolutely AMAZING show. Lead man Steve Hill, is a KILLER guitarist who lays down his heavy 3 to 4 chord riff rock similar to that of Motorhead and AC/DC. Unfortunately the venue somewhat emptied out after Dearly Beloved's set, so there were only about 50 people in the place for the set. This is a band I will be seeing again for sure, quite a nice way to end a night of amazing music.

Take me to more Canadian Music Week Coverage: Reviews and Pictures - or - Radio Shows

Kindling Music/The Management Trust Showcase featuring: Montreal's Dave Martel, Winnipeg's Seconds Apart, Prescott Ontario's The Populars and Toronto's Dearly Beloved

February 15th at Queen Street West's The Rivoli

A lot is going on with this label/management company and their artist, so bear with me and I will do my best to give you the whole shinny. There are some new CDs out or coming out that look like they might warrant the four out of five or five out of five can, IndieCan ratings. The Riv was revved and it's always nice to see a packed house on an always hopping Queen West.

David Martel (is better known to some as the impetus behind the music act ONLY FORWARD) will soon release his solo debut, I Hardly Knew Me produced by David Sturton, IndieCan friend and our Montreal engineer for several great "Montreal Indie Scene" shows at IndieCan. One of the new songs "Yours and Mine" has really grown up since I last heard it. Martel was our guest artist on Episode 37 (listen here) of our show with Nicholas Williams and Jean-Micael Pothier in studio to support our live at IndieCan set. I invite you to download that show and get to know Dave Martel and Dave Sturton a little better. Frankly, I will take the old-fashion, right from the heart to the lips explanation of how music was created over the indie/promo dribble any day of the week. Enough with the hack-marketing, hack-art bios and pitch sheets - is it just me, or is every one trying so hard to sound different than the rest that they forget to say what they mean? But if you like that stuff and it is just me, Myspace has a bright future.

So anyway, if you were at the show or you do get the record and you listen to the "live at IndieCan" version of a song like "Yours and Mine" you'll see what I mean about how the song has developed with time. It's a beautiful thing. Dave and his band were trading a francophone flu bug and while he was bantering with the audience he apologized for it. But what a performance - if you were holding any thing back, Dave and your band, I can't wait to hear the studio version. Details of note: www.myspace.com/iamdavidmartel Digital Release February 26, 2008; Retail Release May 13, 2008

Top: The Pop's, Middle: Dave Martel Band and Bottom: Seconds Away from the PEG

THE POPULARS In 2008, The Populars will release A Pill For Everyone, their second full length album that follows their 2005 debut, "the vindicator." Dave Klym, principal song writer and I were having a great chat at sound-check about albums and themes and how records are best when they are more than a song collection, but the songs should be chapters in a book. You wouldn't tell someone, "Hey, I have a new book I love. You should go get Chapter II - it's great!" As enjoyable as Chapter II may be the full experience of the book can only really be enjoyed by reading the whole thing. I first saw The Populars with Galore and The Pursuit of Happiness at Lee's Palace when the TPOH Compilation, "When We Ruled" was on a mini-tour. Now an inductee into the Indie Hall of Fame, Producer, Moe Berg worked on A Pill For Everyone so I was really excited to see what was coming.

As an aside, Moe, the great thing about being a Hall of Fame inductee, is you will always be an elder statesman now - not a bleeding deacon. Moe worked on Snakehouse by The Cliks (Episode 39) who are touring with The Cult these days. Back to The Populars - the set was too short for my liking so I will get The Pops into the studio to do a live at IndieCan soon. Dave (guitar and vocals) and Ernie (drums) are both from northern Alberta so the worlds largest trailer park stories may or may not continue through the interview, once I get them in Studio. Next door at The Legendary Horseshoe another band with Edmonton roots, SAM HELL (Episode 55) were going at about the same time and they were bummed they couldn't catch the whole Populars set. www.myspace.com/thepopulars Digital Release Jan. 29, 2008; Retail Release - April. 22, 2008

DEARLY BELOVED were live at IndieCan on Episode 25 (listen here), still promoting You Are The Jaguar and damn, that was a good time in the studio. We got to the heart of where some of those great songs came from but we also had some fun with Nina's new handle, "Rock Tigress" too. We laughed, we cried, we hurled.

RepoRepoRepo the sophomore offering has the "In your face" attitude we have come to love and expect from Dearly Beloved. The opening song "Candy Coated" has the tag line, "Say my fucking name, Say my name, Say my name." It has rock anthem appeal but has a not-so-subtle message for FM Radio programmers who can't play the damn song, unless they have their finger on the "Beep" button, constantly on guard. It's a rude and precautious way to kick off this phase of their relationship with the music industry but guess what, they didn't write the songs for the music industry so too fucking bad Mr. Man. The songs are for music fans. Management meetings won't decide on this records fate, nor will focus groups or analytical software; Music fans will be the only vote that matters.
As I told Rob Higgins after the set and I am telling you now, this is a show that belongs in an arena. As a musical act there is nothing missing - the musicianship is sound, the songs are top notch and a hint of theatrics in the presentation make this a rock show. Sorry, no colourful adjectives because if you remember what a rock show is, no more need be said.www.dearlybeloved.ca Digitally Available Now; Retail Release March 18, 2008

SECONDS APART A new signing to the Management Trust, Seconds Apart was discovered in Winnipeg as Indy Nose Bone. RJ Guha (Kindling Music) couldn't talk enough before the show about how a band can go as far as they did with a band name as bad as this is a testament to the talent these hard rocking lads really have. They drove into town from "Winter-Peg" where, as they reminded those of us who were bitching about the cold, it was -49 degrees where they come from. Commercial radio in Winnipeg has already put this band on the map. They made their mark on Toronto by closing the night with a drop-D bang! So why did they decided on Seconds Apart for a new band name? In Winnipeg, no matter where you are right now or where you are going to be, you are only Seconds Apart from those close to you. And soon, Seconds Apart will be close to you! That's the official story anyway. Maybe they are having some prairie fun with their new Torontotopia management. http://www.secondsapart.ca/SEE ALL THE PICTURES FROM FEBRAURY 15, 2008

THE JOYS from London Go Gold and then some!

It is a big deal for us to see Indie success stories and being at the Legendary Horseshoe Tavern to celebrate with London's The Joys as they received their Gold Record was a must for IndieCan. Also on the bill were The Free Press, The Rockafellers and Voyd. The place was packed and the feeling was electric. The Rockafellers and Voyd were new to me and a pleasant treat. The Free Press I have seen every where on the Toronto Indie Scene with the posible exception of in the showers together. These guysjust won't quit. They keep coming at you and their performance has now brought some dynamics and theatrics to the fold. Too bad about the hair - sorry guys, just kidding!!!!

Back in the spring The Joys came to T.Dot to do a Toronto Independent Music Awards show and be our guest on IndieCan Radio. The place: The Pocket Studio, The Engineer: Mike Turner (Fairground, Our Lady Peace) and in Archie's hand was the master of their new three-song single. The Joys played "Soul on Your Sleeve" for us and performed the others in a once-only unplugged fashion which can be heard on Episode 42 - it wasn't lost on The Joys that IndieCan was the first to spin their record and it certainly wasn't lost on them that they owe it all to their devoted fans. New music with a pure old fashion rock 'n' roll is taking it on the chin at almost every level - Satellite Radio has a pop leaning, commercial radio is stuck on the tried and true winning-formula of the same old play list and College Radio can be hard to create momentum in because they are all so autonomous. But music fans have said it loud and proud - so long as their wallets are the votes that count, Rock 'n' Roll is here to stay - It will never die.

While you arer listening to the above mentioned show, check out these great pictures of all four bands at The Horseshoe. FYI, a gold single in Canada is 5,000 units. The Joys have no record deal or distro-deal and they have now sold over 14,000 records off the stage. As I was asking the band "what does it take for an indie band today to go Gold" and they struggled with cliché rhetoric like, "hard word," "believing in yourself," "having a product people can get behind," sometimes what is needed is a more down to earth approach as Ken Ross, The Joys bassist and newest member put it: "It takes a hell of a lot of people buying your record!"

With it's origins in Vancouver, Concerts for a Cause is now in Toronto. February 28th will be the second in the series featuring THE AVENUE and EDEN ANTS. In January CFAC (Toronto) #1 featured Howl (pictured to the right), Sadie May Crash, Ketch Harbour Wolves, The Miles and The Avenue. Read all about CFAC # 1

United Steel Workers of Montreal, The Cockroaches and The Unsettlers played La Sala Rosa January 5th, 2008 to a packed house. The Unsettlers and The Cockroaches opened to what will go down in history as one of the great nights of tirmeless music in Canada. A full report is foound below. To feed your hungry heart, here are some great photo galleries of USWM from 2007

Canadian Music Week. Click here to catch the WeeWerk gig at The Silver Dollar

Canadian Music Cafe. Click here to see the show at the Rivoli September 2007

The United Steel Workers of Montreal, La Sala Rosa, January 5, 2008
Kerosene and Coal, replace a bass and Emile Bertrand

Everyone could feel that something was happening tonight as I worked my way through the line up the winded up the stairwell, past the cantina and into the Sala Rosa dance hall. The United Steel Workers of Montreal were giving fans a sneak preview of their new video to the song "Emile Bertrand" which quotes the line "Kerosene and Coal…" the current full-length CD's title. Now before we gush over Gern and Co. which we will, there were two great bands opening up the show, both deserving of some attention.

The Unsettlers @ La Sala Rosa

The Unsettlers warmed up the already full house of La Sala Rosa. B.W. Brandes fronts this Wild, Wild West orchestra that sports a garbage can drum kit, a Schroeder piano (a la Peanuts), clarinet, the weirdest accordion and pedal board rig I have ever scene. OK, in the interest of true and full disclosure, it's the only accordion/pedal board rig I have ever scene. There were also lovely and talented background singers in dresses and cowboy boots, loud hailers, cap guns and few other props and instruments to boot.

B.W. and I have chatted on Myspace. I had some idea of what to expect. This troupe has some real talent. The Tom-Waits-like Cabaret show captivated the packed house and B.W. and his posse were gracious and truly moved by the warm reception. I don't think they expected it or were ready for it, but they earned it and the crowd reaction may only have sunk in for them days later. I hate get all preachy here, but hey - Unsettlers, if you had brought CDs with you, you would have sold 200 of them. There is an old adage that when opportunity collides with preparation, success occurs. This was an opportunity. The music was polished, the performance was sound - that's a big part of preparation, but you kind of have take care of the business end of things, the commercial end of things, is what I am saying here.

The Cockroaches

When The Cockroaches were unleashed on the crowd they made La Sala Rosa feel 1955 again. This rockabilly trio might not all be of legal drinking age everywhere in North America but they have the spirit of early Rock 'n' Roll in them to such a degree it makes you wonder if they weren't cryogenically frozen decades ago when they fell off the Buddy Holly/Jerry Lee Lewis caravan. Stand-up bass, big-ass Guild guitar, simple drum kit and three strong voices belt out some great in-your-face old school that had the crowd roaring. From my perch stage-left leaning on the speaker columns it was great to see the crowd swaying to the music, dancing and laughing. Of the Blake on Bass, Spider on Drums and Dale on guitar trio, we spoke with (Eddy)Blake and Dale after the set and we'll be sharing their comments with you in an upcoming radio show.

If you read my rants and listen to IndieCan Radio you know that an IndieCan - United Steel Workers love affair if firmly entrenched. This show put USWM over the top as the most watched indie band in Canada for IndieCan Music. We've seen them ourselves in three provinces and sent droves to see them in other provinces.

This isn't main-stream music and if you don't dig it, you'll never get it and that's OK by me. But if you're into it, USWM becomes part of you. It's "Brother Where Art Thou" with hockey sticks. It's Blue Grass Punk. It's I don't know - I am not the first writer that struggled to find words that sound like them. But it's not just the sound. It's the sincerity. It's the willingness to do their thing - come what may. The Steel Workers have a humble connection to storytelling and performance that honours those who have come before them as well as a quiet confidence of knowing they belong and play second banjo to no one.

Keep an eye out for the posting of their video Emile Bertrand which was officially launched at this event. It's a tasteful tribute to a small part of Montreal history. It really captures the personality of the band members and Emile Bertrand is one of those few perfect songs that I defy anyone to dislike. On a sad note for me, this video was the last official performance of Roger Dawson, the sassy punkabilly stand up bassist who has now moved on. He had a look and style that impacted the band. Time will tell if it was profound enough to be known as USWM's Roger Dawson era.

His replacement, thrown into the flaming baptism after a worthy warm up, is the now two-timing Eddy Blake of The Cockroaches. A worthy replacement no doubt but in the crowd we could notice some opening night jitters. In his set before with his Cockroach mates, he owed the songs, the audience and the venue, twirling his bass, climbing up on it and tossing himself and his instrument all over the stage without missing a lick. Blake was a shadow of himself in his opening USWM performance. He held the line but his personality never really cut loose. It will take time for Eddy to find his Steel Worker persona but I am sure it will all work out.

What a great way to start the year - a night to remember that will go down in indie lore and Montreal infamy.

CANADIAN MUSIC SHOWCASE, fusing art and industry

Megan Bonnell

Mark R. Keeler, Ph,D.

Celebrating the collaboration of Canadian independent music, the first Canadian Music Showcase stands as a shining example of entertainment events and a spotlight on the music Canada brings to the world stage.

Ryan Lister brought to life a most innovative showcase of Canadian music talent. This event brought to the stage a splendid mixture of acoustic and rock from some of the hottest names on the indie scene.

With rising stars like Opus Road, the mesmerizing vocals of Megan Bonnell and the uniquely eastern flavour of Ketch Harbour Wolves combined with newcomer Matt La Fontaine, the show fused the best of established and upcoming talent that offered a rich and vibrant cross-section of entertainment.

Ketch Harbour Wolves

Ryan Lister, an upward mobile Toronto actress, launched the first Canadian Music Showcase to give artists the opportunity to promote their talent and allow them to form relationships with entertainment labels and media.

Held at the Gladstone Hotel on October 30, 2007, Ryan offered a great evening open to industry insiders from Canada, United States and the United Kingdom. Not content with music alone, the Canadian Music Showcase also highlighted the

Opus Road

stunning works of photographer Cailin Jones and artist Arpad Szoke to give the event a superbly Canadian touch.

Industry insider, Raquel de los Reyes, of Kings Entertainment Canada, was present at the event and noted "this event, and showcases like it, does wonders for artists in particular and the industry in general. I am looking forward to more great works from Ryan."

Overall, Canadian Music Showcase scored a flawless victory and delivered an event of remarkable caliber. Combining the collaboration of sensational Canadian talent and the warm and intimate ambiance of the Gladstone Hotel made for a memorable event.

THE WEAKERTHANS with guests JENN GRANT

The Phoenix Concert Hall -- Toronto November 8th and 9th

Jim Bryson joins the Weakerthans line up of Stephen Carroll, Guitar, Pedal and Lap Steel, Jason Tait--Drums, Greg Smith, Bass and singer John K. Samson who was proudly sporting his C'mon T-Shirt (Ian Blurton of C'mon produces The Weakerthans for a pretty much sold out tour. My good fortune included scoring a pass for the first of two sold-out Phoenix Concert Hall nights in Toronto and hanging out a bit back stage for day two.SEE PICTURES FROM NIGHT ONE HERE!

Sold out shows have a magical quality to them. Reasonable ticket prices ($25.00) have humane quality to them. For music enjoyment and all around concert experience, this type of venue is where it's at for me. I will continue to avoid The Air Canada Center or any other venue named after a sponsor that extorts me for north of $100 a seat for bad sound. Sure, I took my son to Copps Coliseum to see Elton John (floor seats -thanks to my friends Mark and Carole) and To the ACC to sit in the rafters to be at Bob Dylan. You couldn't really call it "seeing" Bob Dylan or "hearing" Bob Dylan - but we where there. As parents when it comes to the education and culture of our kids we can part with money without a second thought - youth have to know where music came from. But the Eagles are going to have to pay their bills with out me from here on in, if you know what I am saying.

Back to the happy place of the Weekerthans show: Toronto was treated to special guests, The Jenn Grant Band who are touring her Orchestra for the Moon CD and teasing audience with some new stuff too. On the Thurday, Jenn Grant fan, Ron Sexsmith came on stage to sing a duet with her. The whole band was tight as can be, the crowd weren't just patiently waiting for the headliner - they were into it and as guitar player, Kris Pope said, "It's nice to come on stage and see the place isn't filling in - everyone who's coming is already there and they're into it."

As you know, since my recent trip to Halifax POP Explosion I am having a love-affair with East Cost music and it would be nice to see music challenging potatoes as PEIs biggest export. I do love my potatoes but this Orchestra for a Moon CD goes down just as smooth, gives you that warm and full feeling -- and there's less calories. Jenn will be a guest on our radio show soon and we'll talk about her multi-artistic talents and how her song Dreamer has been picked up by TV. The woman does her own CD artwork, makes her own swag and I don't know what else. Hey Jenn - Do you do web sites? I could use some help here.

Now back to the Weekerthans: I interview a lot of up and coming bands and influences can't help but coming up when we talk about the creative process. The Weekerthans are one of these bands, humble as these lads are; already have legend status amongst the aspiring musical community. Have you been to their web site (Oh look, a hyper link)? There's a karaoke section you can sing along to "Psalm For the Elks Lodge Last Call" and "Reconstruction Site." It seems the fans were practicing. There was a lot of singing going on in the audience which included a little Winnipeg bashing, but in a "it's OK, we, know, we've been there" spirit. What's more Canadian than taking pride in making fun of ourselves?

Drowning Girl, winner of the nationals for the 2007 Canadian Radio Star National Songwriting Competition for their song “Dead or Alive” are Live at IndieCan with Andre and Joe for Episode 61 of IndieCan Radio. Click on the Radio to GO to the SHOW.

TORNONTO INDEPENDENT MUSIC AWARDS Rock the PHOENIX

Go to Gallery Congradulations to all of the organizers, volunteers and nomineers for this years TIMAs. The music was diverse, the crowd was electric, the prizes have evolved nicely into relevent, career building tools such as publicity and recording time and it was a great night of entertainment. As one presenter put it, "Other North American cities would die to have a night like this, recognizing their cities emerging talent. The city of Toronto is a big (sometimes cold) city but the music business is a small town and it's always heart warming to see the willingness to "treat thy neighbour like thy self." Visit TIMA for for winners and highlights and think about planning now to attend next year. Rock on Toronto! October 4th at The Phoenix (click yellow to gawk at Rock Pics) was a night to remember in deed. IndieCan will be bringing more commentary and pics so come back soon, and as always put your 2 cents worth in at myspace or Facebook.

PERFORMANCES AT POLARIS GALA SHOW OFF GREAT CANADAIAN TALENT

Grant Lawrence of CBC Radio 3 hosted the Gala which would award one Album $20,000 based on artistic merit alone - not on sales, genre or any block voting that some other awards are criticised for. The performances all passed by too fast. There were some great indie moments. I find the illusion of wealth and glitz that many feel a need to spin onto Canadian music is unnecessary. Canadian music stands on its artistic merit. And although it is tragic that there are too many Juno award winners that can't afford their own car, I think it's better to talk about the reality of music life than be so ashamed that we glitz up the truth. An ever-growing segment of the music consuming public is far too sophisticated to buy into pretentious packaging anyway. So, less rant, more example: Leslie Feist couldn't make it. She was performing in London England. Some presenter that will remain anonymous declared "Leslie sends her regrets as she is performing in the "blah-blah-blah" theatre to a capacity crowd tonight," to which the audience ewwed and awwed appropriately. In a written statement from Leslie Feist, she stated, "…I wish I could be there with you tonight in Toronto. As I write this, I am preparing to perform in a venue so small you could fit 5 of them in The Rivoli." Spin - reality. I found the honesty more enduring, personally.

Peter Nema couldn't be happier with the outcome. He loved the Patrick Watson peformance. Pictured above, The Besnard Lakes were Pete's runner up. Read more of what Pete had to say about this years Gala

Another totally charming indie moment was New Brunswick's Julie Doiron who from the stage, took her 15 minutes of spot light to say, "I've never been to an event like this. Thanks - I've loved all the performance I've seen."

Maybe "le cream-du-la-cream" indie moment was the acceptance speech from the Montreal Alt/Rock band Patrick Watson who won the $20,000 prize for their Secret City Records/Fusion III effort, "Close to Paradise." "We creamed our Budget rental van on our way to a gig, which we thought was covered by insurance until today when we got a bill from them for $16,000. Now we can pay it."

Indie Can tips our hat to Steve Jordan, founder and Executive Director, all of the worker-bees and the deserving 10 nominees. It was a good night for Canadian music. I do have some reservations about art and competition but I think the organizers and judges have their heart in the right place. I also doubt that I am the first to recognize that the prize is an embarrassing low amount of money considering that an average size band really need to be netting $300,000 after expenses every year for each band member to earning the average industrial wage. That said, POLARIS is on the right track - Patrick Watson couldn't pay off that pooched van with a trophy and a hand-shake.

IndieCan cogradulates all 10 music acts for being recognized this yes. Three cheers to Patrick Watson for winning.

See more pictues from Wendy Rombough and Pete Nema by CLICKING HERE. Be sure to visit POLARIS to hear and read about all the nominees and the selection process.

Holy Krief; This isn't The Dears - Patrick Krief's CD Release party shows a new side to Krief - a vulnerable side with '70's-esque Jam-band quality, as Patrick's new band takes to the stage along with The Danielle Duval Band and Seedy Easy. THE RIVOLI, August 30, 2007

Let me hear the interview with Patrick Krief Show me pictures of the night with Krief, Danielle Duval and Seedy Easy check out other kick-ass pics by Pics by Pete Nema

Patrick Krief's musical life didn't begin when he was asked to play guitar for THE DEARS and clearly it won't end there either. I most recently saw The Dears as Saturday Night Headliners at Hillside Music Festival. They held an appreciative audience in an "audience in the headlights" trance. From 2000 until now they have released 6 CDs. The Dears hold an undisputed and permanent place in Canadian music history. From the outside looking in, it would be easy to think that being guitar player for The Dears would be all or more of a music career that anyone should ask for.

But Patrick has always had these musical ideas that compel him and Take It Or Leave is a starting point. About 30 songs were considered for the EP, 14 were tracked and "I didn't nail them all so 7 is the number that made it to a CD" says Patrick. All instruments on the EP are played by Krief. His band is made up of George Donoso III of The Dears as well as bass player Andre Bendahan and Roberto Piccioni on Keyboards. His self released EP sold out 1000 copies on Maple Music in a snap. On the eve of this review, August 30th, 2007 Krief entered into an agreement to licence the recording to SunnyLane Records. "Only a few of the songs we do live are from the record" foreshadows Krief, giving me the impression that plans for a second solo record are already under way.

Ted Heagle of SunnyLane told me that the live experience is nothing like the EP. What an understatement. Roberto (keyboards) works in an HMV which started playing the EP in the store and Roberto jokes that he could hardly recognize the pre-recorded version as being the songs he's been rehearsing and performing.

First - about Take It Or Leave, it's a great record to drive to or unwind to. For those of you who recall me going on and on about The Barzin My Life In Rooms EP, it has some of those same soul enriching qualities. It's not disposable music. By that I expect that people who like it will play the shit out of it and be telling their friends about it.

So, yeah, get the CD or listen on myspace if you're not sure. But the live show is something you must see. If you go to as many shows as I do, you know that some are forgettable, some are worth the trip and remind you why music is important and a few, a very few are shows that you will never forget. The live show has an early to mid-70's jam feel to it, giving you "from the heart" performances that transcend any need to talk about the quality of the musicianship and song structure. In fact, I assure you, if I got trapped into articulating either of the aforementioned qualities, I missed the point. The point was that these performers laid something genuine on the line in both a vulnerable and reckless way and isn't that what Rock 'n' Roll is all about?

I am telling you to see this live show and if you want to have an extra hit of satisfaction, bring someone you know who is lost in the time warp of their vinyl collection of Cream, Hendrix or Grateful Dead. You may renew their faith in live music. Listen to the August 30th interview Now - joe chisholm - info@indiecan.com

TAKE ME BACK to HILLSIDE FESTIVAL in July 2007

CRUISING AROUND HOT SUMMER STEETS IN TORONTO

METAL QUEEN MUSIC FEST 2007 saw a ton of great talent peak out with Revolver, Crash Kelly, The Mud Men and Edwin. Rockers started to fade as the night went on. I would say that the peak crowd hit mid-afternoon. By the time Edwin came on it was like a private party. But Edwin's band were troopers and put on a fabulous show, treating the crowd to some I Mother Earth sprinkled in with "the newer stuff." The small and devoted crowd cryed for an encore and the true professionals that they are, they came on and satisfied. Look for more commentary and pictures later this week. See the star-studded gallery of pictures now. Still not back to work, well here's some more

RCD MUSIC Showcases great straight ahead rock and roll at the Riv on a monthly basis. If unpretentious toe-tapin rock is up your alley you're assured you'll get your $6 worth at this monthly event. Shawn Kelly debuted his side-kick project Kelly's Heros, Galore, who's song The Amanda Effect is getting more rotations on XM Satelitte Radio than my old 45 did (does anyone out there get that reference... OK, I'll come up with something from this century next week). Down the street at Healey's The Toronto Independent Music Awards were showcasing and The Joys were working in a new bass player. Gawk now at all the rock 'n' rollin' pics .....

The Art Community Set up Camp on Queen to Raise Money for CAMH

Art and Music were on display at The Rivoli on Queen street to raise money for The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health as Pop With Brains 10 packed the room for their monthly showcase. The Dunes, fresh off their UK tour were back to headline to share some of thier new tunes with Toronto as well as deliver on hits that have found their way to Much Music rotation and radio air play. Modern Boys Modern Girls (hear them live and interviewd on Episode 17 of The Toronto Indie Scene) opened. Oh The Pretty Things and The Germans were on the bill and, as always, Pop With Brains hosts Eden Ants gave a rambuctious set as well. The Dunes are working on a new video and camera crews were on-site. The band has invited all attendees with camera phones or digital photo/video camera who took shaps to send them to the band. Your pictures may be in the Dunes video.

SEE PICTURES FROM POP WITH BRAINS 10 Now! Oops. this link wasn't working but it is now... Also, check out the Pop With Brains hyperlink above.

Saturday July 14th, 2007 at the Silver Dollar was an action packed night of great rock and just enough mis-adventures to keep people hopping. I SPYS. COBRA COBRA COBRA, COLOURBOOK, THE VESTALOYNES, MIXYLODIAN, THE DISRAELIS and HOLLERADO were on the bill. I know what you're thinking - "that's a lot of music for one stage. Thanks to Hollerado for inviting me out. Here's some pictures, inside, outside and around the corner, SATURDAY Picture Gallery @ The Silver Dollar

As the Canada Day sun set on Downsview Park the day grew cooler and crowd grew deeper as Multi-platinum selling 54-40 packed the joint tocapped off what might be the best day of music IndieCan has had all year. Matthew Genovise, Vanderpark, Afternoon Zero, Trophy, from Toronto, Pat The White from Quebec City, Cory Lee from T.Dot/Van, Rally Car and Faber Drive from Vancouver and The Rock Star House Band (from your TV) set the stage for this "the place to be" event. Did I mention it was free. Not the rides or beer tent, of course, but 12 great hours of music.

Don't call us industry. IndieCan means music fan. TEAM INDIECAN had a blast, interviewing bands, organiziers and fans, mingling in the crowd, back stage, talking shop, talking to the crowd from the stage or face-to-face, helping out any way we could (which included putting Rally Car up for the night - ask us about our "adopt an indie band program"). It was exhausting, sometimes stressful, too many friggin' names to remember, over stimulation and the best fun anyone could have without risking infection. Speaking personally, there is no where I would have rather been. For those who were there, you know what I mean, for those who were "at the cottage" you'll have to live with our commentary. CLICK HERE for more 54-40 pics.

Coming very soon: Photo galleries of each band, a radio episode devoted to Rock The Park and "A tale of three Van-bands" I will look at this day in the life for Rally Car - DIY indie, Faber Drive, indie label courted by major label and 54-40 indie, major, DIY and now calling indie label True North Records home. This is a fabulous opportunity to continue the never tireing question Dave Cool got us started on - WHAT IS INDIE?

Also: Why after meeting some of the Rock Star cast I don't have the same contemptuous "you're nothing more than Karaoke wankers and I can't believe people watch that shit" attitude. Not that their future hangs on my opinion. I won't start watching, but I will tell you what I like about them and what I think indie artists can learn from these poser survivalists.

FABER FANS WHO WAITED ALL DAY FOR FABER DRIVE WERE NOT DISAPPOINTED

GIVE ME MORE FABER, MORE DRIVE....

PAT THE WHITE PICs	RALLY CAR PICs	MATTHEW GENOVESE
IMAAGI PICs	ROCK STARS PICs	AFTERNOON ZERO
TROPHY PICs	VANDERPARK PICs	CORY LEE PICs

LOTUS CHILD? DONT GET HUNG UP ON THE NAME, MAAAAN

I looked forward to Vancouver based Lotus Child's first trip to central Canada - I fully expected the Ontario/Quebec music fans to embrace them. The band name has a magnetic attraction to bad press. The first review I read was an Edmonton writer who hated the name, loved the music. Grant Lawrence, CBC Radio3 host, "I hate this band name but I love the band." Oddly enough, I knew that nobody out here would get hung up on it - OK, they're from Vancouver and they're called Lotus Child - which one's the vegan? who really cares? Let's hear your music.

Personally, I was more interested in the CD title - GOSSIP DIET. "As a people we are preoccupied with and we consume a diet of gossip" says singer Zack Gray. "But also the 'Diet' was the general assembly of the estates of the former Holy Roman Empire so the title represents a government that functions on little more than gossip."

If you look at your music collection and ask yourself, what's missing? - what do I not have? - GOSSIP DIET might be it. The sound and song writing sensibility is strong enough to be commercial without fading into the "so five minutes ago" trash can. Gossip Diet is enduring and deep in great pop/art songs like Archaeologist, Lids and The title track. You could buy this CD for your parents. You could put it in a time capsule for your kids.

On this night the setting was Kensington Market's The Boat and you guessed it - Zack, the "hippiest" of the bunch couldn't believe Toronto had a tie-die-cool neighbourhood like this. Lotus Child was on a bill with Fury & The Mouse, Personal Circus and Stone Fox. Tom Dobrzanski, keyboards, vocals and manager just got call hours before the show that BC Music had approved their tour grant so some of the trips costs would be recouped. So good news, Lotus Child will be back and if you missed them, your chance will come. And BC Music - money well spent. If lyrically you find Lotus Child a bit heady, their live performance comes from the h