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11/03/2011

CMT Music Fest 2011

We all know by now that this is months behind but time got the best of me and I just kept getting further and further behind on EVERYTHING. I'm super sorry as I know how excited you all are to read about my experiences at this year's first annual CMT Music Festival!

As you all know by now (and if not, browse through my blog and you will know) that I tend to listen to a variety of music that doesn't stick to a specific genre. Growing up I was primarily exposed to country. My first "celebrity" crush was Billy Ray Cyrus (there must have been something about that mullet...) and I definitely had an "Achy-Breaky Heart". Nowadays I tend to stick towards top 40 and indie rock music but being a true country girl at heart, I always end up tuning into the country stations every now and then and get a taste of the new and the comfort of the songs I grew up with. And despite what most people think, today's country isn't as "twangy" and "whiny" as it may have been in the past and it has actually become quite popular with younger generations.

The CMT Music Festival, hosted at Burl's Creek Park in Oro Station Ontario this past August was a perfect cushion to fall back on. The three day festical was packed full of top country talent, thousands of campers and sunny skies. Country Music  Television, better known as CMT, along with major sponsors (e.g. Budweiser, Nashville North,  and Best Buy) threw together an incredible weekend for all who attended. Well organized, professional and with very few flaws, they pulled off an event that is going to keep people coming back year after year. While it's only in it's infancy (this was their FIRST festival after all), the entire weekend went rather smooth from all levels.  The stage was sturdy, the beer tent and food vendors were plentiful and the the weather was beyond anything anyone could have asked for. The even staff, volunteers and security were friendly and knowledgeble without being cocky and forceful (trust me, I've met my fair share). Overall, as a lover of music and a guest to the event as a reviewer, I had a great time and look forward to next year's extravaganza.

...

I do have to admit though, if I had ANYTHING to complain about, and I ANYTHING, it would have to be the Porta-Potties. I know I know, it's a festival, what do I expect? Let's just say I was happy to see a real toilet (with toilet paper!) by the end of the weekend!

-Taryn and Dianne

10/11/2011

Listen to Me: Buddy Holly

Although I'm sure a lot of you have no idea who Buddy Holly is, I am 100 per cent sure you've more than likely listened to his music or a cover of his music at one time or another. Holly  may have only  been successful for a short time before his untimely death in a plane crash in 1959, it has been said that he was pioneer of rock and roll.

Listen to Me: Buddy Holly is a compilation CD with a variety of musicians coming together to sing tribute to one of the great musicians of the past. From Lyle Lovett, Jeff Lynne and Ringo Starr, to The Fray, Zooey Deschanel and Cobra Starship. If you think about it, most of these artists would be an odd combination when it comes to most situations but as they are coming together to celebrate the life and music of a singer it almost seems fitting.

These artists manage to capture the essence of Buddy Holly while adding their own unique touch and making it their own. It's interesting and enjoyable to listen too even though I was unfortunate enough not to be around in the 50s when he made his debut and met his tragic end. CDs like this are a great way to introduce music from the past to people in the present. It's hard to get kids and even people my age to listen to music that was not from their generation (or in some cases even their parents generation). Using popular artists from today and mixing them with artists from the past generation allows people to get a taste of what music was like in the past while listening to artists they know from today!

10/05/2011

Would you be a Mermaid or Whale?

This poem with the photo attached has been going around Facebook today and it's inspiring so I thought I would share with you so more people can read.

Reading through the comments though, it's a little bit controversial because nobody ever fails to bring up the fact that "obesity is bad". Yes I know that, you know that...the whole WORLD knows that. There is an epidemic happening and it's the fat syndrome. I'm not condoning that being fat is the best thing in the world because yes there are health issues to consider, but what I am supporting is loving yourself. I can relate to being the "fat" girl all throughout elementary, middle and high school. I was the one guys would talk to briefly but would never look at as girlfriend material and the one the popular girls gave the "pity" look to (oh yes, I saw those looks girls, I'm hard of hearing, not blind). I struggled (and still do now) with self-image and self-esteem issues and that's why this poem really got to me. It's about loving who you are. It's about accepting yourself the way you were made and accepting that it's okay to be you.

I am still a bigger girl and while I try and eat healthy it doesn't always happen. I am also somewhat active Most people judge before they know the circumstances and that creates friction. The girls (and guys!) end up feeling like outcasts because they aren't "normal", society pokes fun at them instead of helping them find a solution, and in the end the situation usually goes from bad to worse in a matter of minutes.

Embrace yourself and embrace who you are and you'll be able to achieve anything you want. If that means losing 50 lbs or giving yourself a makeover, so be it. Do what YOU feel is right, now what society makes it to be.


]

A while back, at the entrance of a gym, there was a picture of a very thin and beautiful woman. The caption was "This summer, do you want to be a mermaid or a whale?"

The story goes, a woman (of clothing size unknown) answered the following way:

"Dear people, whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, seals, curious humans), they are sexually active and raise their children with great tenderness.
They entertain like crazy with dolphins and eat lots of prawns. They swim all day and travel to fantastic places like Patagonia, the Barents Sea or the coral reefs of Polynesia.
They sing incredibly well and sometimes even are on cds. They are impressive and dearly loved animals, which everyone defend and admires.

Mermaids do not exist.

But if they existed, they would line up to see a psychologist because of a problem of split personality: woman or fish?
They would have no sex life and could not bear children.
Yes, they would be lovely, but lonely and sad.
And, who wants a girl that smells like fish by his side?

Without a doubt, I'd rather be a whale.

At a time when the media tells us that only thin is beautiful, I prefer to eat ice cream with my kids, to have dinner with my husband, to eat and drink and have fun with my friends.

We women, we gain weight because we accumulate so much wisdom and knowledge that there isn't enough space in our heads, and it spreads all over our bodies.
We are not fat, we are greatly cultivated.
Every time I see my curves in the mirror, I tell myself: "How amazing am I ?! "

(The girl on the picture is French model Tara Lynn)

9/26/2011

Suicide - My Thoughts on Recent Events

I realize I have multiple posts (they're coming!) to catch up on and am falling a little behind, but there's something that I need to discuss with you guys as I feel that it's become super important in light of recent events. A week ago now the city of Mississauga, and more specifically my community was struck with a huge tragedy. On the morning of September 16th, the police were called to the scene of an apparent suicide attempt by a 16-year-old boy who jumped over the Mavis-401 overpass and was then struck by an oncoming car. Not even two hours later they discovered the body of a 17-year-old girl in a near by park, strangled to death. The boy died two days later; They were best friends.

Although nothing has been confirmed by officials, it's been said that this had been a murder-suicide. The boy had been struggling for months with depression and was at an all time low. His best friend was trying to help him by telling her parents and school officials at Mississauga Secondary, but in the end it cost her her life. It was said he loved her as more than friends, but she didn't feel the same (only as friends), and maybe that's what pushed him over the edge.

I may not have known these two students of Mississauga Secondary School, it was tough finding out what had happened and having it happen so close to where I live, work and walk every day. It saddened me completely that this young teen felt that he had no escape from his life and therefore decided to end  his life and that of his best friend's.  I can't say I personally know what he felt, but I do understand bullying was a part of his life and it was most definitely a part of mine. It's crazy at how other people can justify bullying as a part of kids growing up, but never do they realize the implications of what these kids are going through. Yes, most grow up, have kids and have a normal life, but then there are some who don't want to live to see another day.

I realize this post is a little morbid but I want whatever readers I have out there to understand that there are others who have gone through what they're going through now. There are people out there who want to listen to you and help you in whatever way they can. Go to your best friend, your best friend's parent, even a stranger. Heck, I'll listen and lend a shoulder if you need somebody to talk to. Life sucks a lot of the time but you just have to make do with what you got, hold your head high and take the high road. Life is precious, YOUR life is precious and I don't want to see more kids end it because they don't think it will get better. It will, your childhood is just a moment in time. A time to look back and say to yourself "I overcame that".

I woke up this morning to find that an 11-year-old in Pickering took his life a few weeks ago (Sept 6). All because he was bullied and mugged last year while at school. A child, not even a teenager, who felt that it was better to give up than to face people who bullied him at school every day. On top of other tragedies in his life and suffering from Muscle Dystrophy. Two days later a 17-year-old boy killed himself in Hamilton also due to being bullied. I'm at a loss for words right now. I guess the only thing I can say is this: To the bullies, are you happy now? Are you satisfied that the kid you picked on so often felt so low that the only choice he felt he had was to kill himself?

So I ask you this, if you or someone you know is being bullied, PLEASE seek help. Talk to somebody, school officials, the parents, other friends etc. If your a kid or teen and feel that there is nobody who can understand you, call the Kids help line, they're there to listen.

This happens more than you think. Teen suicide isn't preventable but it can be avoided. First thing to do is stop the bullying.

If you're feeling sad, depressed, thinking about ending it, call. There are people out there who will listen to you without conviction. They want to help you.

Kids Help Line: 1-800-668-6868

Toronto Distress Line: 416-408-4357

Survivor Support Program: 416-595-1716

Taryn


**The information about the murder-suicide, and the 11-year-old from Pickering came from The Toronto Star articles as well as the the two phone numbers**

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1059479--disabled-pickering-boy-took-his-own-life-after-he-was-mugged-and-bullied?bn=1

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1056471--the-other-student-in-mississauga-murder-suicide

9/10/2011

Let's Go to the Ex! Food, Fun and Marianas Trench

I always look forward to August because I know that the Canadian National Exhibition is once again holding up fort at the Exhibition grounds in Toronto. The Ex is virtually a staple of Ontario summers and a family tradition to many. There is always something for everyone and everyone has fun no matter what age you are. I've long grown out of the rides (...well, I will go on them, I just can't find anybody else who wants to go with me - heh), but I thoroughly enjoy walking the grounds, taking in the sound, the music, the shopping and the overall atmosphere.

We all know that the CNE is technically just an over-zealous version of your typical small-town small fall fair, but we also know that it`s so much more than that. It's a multi-cultural, family oriented gathering for people all over Ontario and Canada to get together to share memories and create more.  I enjoy the time spent with friends, remembering our childhoods, eating deliciously bad food (aka deep fried "cola") that we'd never get away with on a regular day and listening to great music at the bandshell.

One of the main things I love about the Ex is the talent they schedule every year. Whoever is in charge of scheduling has a great mind and knows that in order to please a large variety of people, you need to be able to have a wide variety of talent on stage. They also are smart enough to know that kids, teens and young adults will also be the majority of the attendees when it comes to these events. I for one love the shows, the outdoor atmosphere and the fact that the stage isn't too big or gaudy.

Marianas Trench has been around for ages. I first heard of them when I was nearing the end of my high school career...and yes, that has been awhile ago now - thanks for reminding me. I remember hearing them sing a capella and I was floored. Their vocals were incredible, in tune and pleasing to the ear. Lead vocalist Josh Ramsay showed power and range that you really don't see in many singers these days. When Myspace was popular, I remember spending hours talking back and forth with Mike, their guitarist and having the most random conversations.  And as much as I love who they've become, and how successful they've been when it comes to their music and song-writing, I miss those times. I miss being able to talk to them at a show for a half hour, I miss them recognizing you instantly and giving you a hug.

As you have probably guessed, I've seen Mtrench in concert quite a few times. And ever since I saw them play at the Commodore during Juno weekend in 2009, I've kind of been comparing their shows ever since. Their show in Vancouver was beyond amazing. The vocals were perfect, their stage presence was impeccable and their overall performance was beyond what most bands do. I will admit that mtrench hasn't had some great performances, but then again, no band is ever perfect - that's life. And with Josh having vocal troubles sometimes, it's completely understandable. The show at the Ex on August 21st, wasn't as good as the show in Vancouver but it was pretty darn close. I was able to remember those times in the past and just have fun. They were fun, the music was catchy and their new music was inspiring. I know for a fact they work their asses off to get the fans what they want and I am proud that they are able to do so still. Even though their new music is becoming more mainstream, I am still an avid fan and I hope they stick around for more great music.

The lone issue I seem to have lately with the band is that Josh never seems to come out and greet the fans after their shows. I can't pinpoint one time I've witnessed this because I've seen it numerous times. Maybe it's just my experiences but I've had a friend who's tried to meet him countless times and each time he's disappointed her as well as many others. Some see it as stand-offish and I see it as a little snobby. Again, maybe it was just my luck in the situations but I have heard other stories when he's been the most sincere person there is. I've seen that side of Josh and I love it, but I've also seen the side where he stands on the other side of the barriers smoking (...maybe THAT'S why you're having vocal troubles Josh? Just a thought...) and ignoring the adoring girls. The entire band is sweet natured and very humble so I just hope that what I've witnessed on numerous occasions was just flukes and because he was having bad days...Don't worry Josh, I still love you but I just had to say what was on my mind!

Taryn

P.S. Keep your eyes open, I have another review of the TDSB show at the bandshell and my second day at the Ex coming up soon!

9/07/2011

Blink 182 Rocks Toronto August 17th

 Photos Courtesy of Savannah Miranda

It seems like Blink-182 has been around for as long as I can remember. I think the first time I'd ever heard of them was during a talent show in middle school when my fellow classmates stood up to perform "Adam's Song" in front of the entire school. I must admit, at the time I began listening to them because my girly crush at the time was in the band, but even today, 15 years later (yet another hint as to how old I am really getting - haha), they are still a band that I will occasionally fall back on.

The show itself was like no other that I've been to this year so far. A lot of the shows I've attended were geared towards the younger crowds as they either a) haven't been around long or b) are focused on that of a younger generation. Blink has been around for quite some time now and a lot of their "young" fans have grown up and are living their own lives. The average age at the Molson Amphatheatre on August 17th was 25 or older. There were of course people of all ages but when I looked around, everybody seemed to be in my generation.

Molson Amp, Aug 17, 2011. Photo Courtesy of Savannah Miranda
A friend approached me about going to the show with her as she couldn't find another companion who was able to go on such short notice. I can never say no to a concert (and I thank her endlessly for taking me with her) and so I agreed because we always have fun when we're together! To be honest though, when she mentioned the show I was more excited to be seeing My Chemical Romance more than Blink 182. MCR was probably one of the first "punk" bands (if you want to call them that) that I ever listened to. I was a country girl growing up and then I was all about the Boy Bands for the longest time. They were the opening to more music and a wider variety than I was used to.

Now I know this is supposed to be a review of the show but since I only knew about 10 per cent of all the songs that were performed, it's kind of pointless for me to go on about something that I don't know all about. So I guess I will talk about the vibe of the entire venue. This show at the Amp was probably the first one I'd been to there since 2005. I'd forgotten how much a huge venue like that could fill so easily and how much more fun it seemed than just going to a show at the Air Canada Centre. The open concept, the amphatheatre shape and the full crowd just made everything seem so much more intimate - even with 15,000 people in the sold out crowd. It was a full out rock show. Fist pumping, people smoking weed everywhere, and everybody singing to the music they knew so well. I know you see that at every concert you go to, but this time (to me at least) it was a little different than what I am used to.

Molson Amp, Aug 17, 2011. Photo Courtesy of Savannah Miranda
I guess my only complaint of the evening was the sound quality. The last show I went to at the Amp we were in the pit and I was a little tipsy (no use in denying), but I do remember it sounding better. I am going to put the blame on the placement of where we were sitting (great seats btw) but we were to the far left of the stage and the speakers were directed towards the front so the sound ended up being muffled. And being somebody who is hard of hearing to begin with, I just had to go with the flow and bob my head to the beat. The songs I did know the words to I sang along, but with most of the music, I just listened and enjoyed viewing people singing to their  favourite band.





Check out Blink-182's website on news of their album, which gets released on September 27th, 2011. 
















Molson Amp, Aug 17, 2011. Photo Courtesy of Savannah Miranda

9/06/2011

Mat McHugh to Play at the Drake Hotel Tonight Sept 06

photo courtesy of Mat McHugh
Okay ladies if you're willing to open your ears, you need to check out a very sexy Aussie man who goes by the name of Mat McHugh. When I was listening to his EP what came to mind was a mixture of Michael Buble and Maroon Five. I know it's a little bit of an odd mixture but with his smooth vocals and likable lyrics, it was hard not to put two and two together. *random thought* After I finished listening to more of his music, I also found that he sounded a little like 100 Monkeys when they did they're slower songs. Maybe I'm crazy, but maybe not.

The acoustic guitar is subtle but very well played and the vocals are nice. I like the nice, relaxed feeling I got when I was listening to the music...and after the stressful end of the day I had, that's saying something for sure!

He's also the front man of the Australian band The Beautiful Girls, which also has a similar sound to what he is doing with his solo work and tour. His EP "Go Don't Stop" was released in June of this year with the expected release of his full length album to follow.


“I want to contribute to the musical landscape in 2011 by making something more about feelings and
emotions than it is about musical cleverness,” McHugh says in his biography.

If you feel like learning more about Mat or his band Beautiful girls check out their websites:

http://www.matmchughmusic.com
http://www.thebeautifulgirls.com
http://www.facebook.com/matmchughmusic

Be sure you check Mat McHugh and The Beautiful Girls out!

8/29/2011

Busy Busy Busy!

Wow...August has been insannnnnnnnnnnnnnnnely busy and I am super excited to tell you guys all about it! I realize I haven't been as fast as I normally have been but that's because I've had so much to do and so little time!!

Now, I still have to write about Jackie Valentyne and Marianas Trench at The Ex  last Sunday (Aug 21), but let me tell you about the weekend I just had.

I literally did four straight days of amazing music. I was fortunate enough to win all-access guest passes to this year's "Dellspot End of Summer Party" which took place in Bala, Ontario. This year included bubble machines, milkshakes and bouncy castles as well as performances by the one and only These Kids Wear Crowns and Marianas Trench!

After that very loooong day, I packed up the car and my mom and I went to the very first (and hopefully not the last) CMT Music Festival! Yes, that's a huge difference in musical genres, but I must say I am a country girl at heart! Day one (friday night) consisted of Blake Shelton (yeah, you know, the hottie from the new TV show The Voice?), and Lady Antebellum. Day two was full of incredible acts like Tara Oram, Dean Brodie, Ronnie Dunn, Sarah Evans and Rascal Flatts! Sunday unfortunately we didn't stay the entire afternoon (we were just too damn tired) but we did manage to catch The Good Family do the "Sunday Morning Gospel Brunch" before we decided to pack up and head home!

Tomorrow I will be heading BACK to the Ex to spend some time there during TDSB Day (even though I'm not a student anymore) and we'll also be catching JRDN, Stereos, Shawn Desman and Down With Webster to end off the evening. I promise to keep you all updated!

Thanks for reading,
Taryn

8/24/2011

Rest In Peace Jack Layton

Courtesy of MartinHo
News spread fast about the passing of NDP Leader Jack Layton. And grief spread just as fast, if not faster. Jack may have been the opposition to get Canadians believing change could happen, but he was also a family man, a community man, a lover and a fighter for all things good. He was also a survivor of prostate cancer. Not even a month ago he announced he was temporarily stepping down as he found out that another kind of cancer had appeared that was different from what he had beaten before. It took a turn for the worse though as his body didn't respond to treatment and on August 22, 2011 Jack Passed away surrounded by family.

Even if you weren't an NDP supporter, you knew who Jack was. You knew what he was about and you knew how passionate he was about youth and his community. He made a believer out of me and many other young voters who didn't believe Canadian politics could be changed.

To young Canadians: All my life I have worked to make things better. Hope and optimism have defined my political career, and I continue to be hopeful and optimistic about Canada. Young people have been a great source of inspiration for me. I have met and talked with so many of you about your dreams, your frustrations, and your ideas for change. More and more, you are engaging in politics because you want to change things for the better. Many of you have placed your trust in our party. As my time in political life draws to a close I want to share with you my belief in your power to change this country and this world. There are great challenges before you, from the overwhelming nature of climate change to the unfairness of an economy that excludes so many from our collective wealth, and the changes necessary to build a more inclusive and generous Canada. I believe in you. Your energy, your vision, your passion for justice are exactly what this country needs today. You need to be at the heart of our economy, our political life, and our plans for the present and the future. 


Jack you will always be apart of the legacy of great Canadians who set out to change the world. You were the best Prime Minister we never had and an amazing person. Even tho I never met you, I felt like you were a close relative. With your heartwarming smile and soulful speeches, it was hard not to like you - even if you rooted for the other team. 


Forever in our hearts.



My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world.
All my very best,
Jack Layton

REST IN PEACE JOHN GILBERT "JACK" LAYTON <3

8/23/2011

Q&A with The Good Brother's Bruce Good

With the exciting weekend of the CMT Music Festival looming (it's next weekend!) Bruce Good and his family have been in the music business for over 40 years (his sons, a little less). I had the opportunity to chat with Bruce, who is well-known for his musical talents in the Good Brothers, and The Good Family. He's also in another band with his family members called The Gospel Bluegrass Bunch. This traditional bluegrass band, with a hint of Gospel music, will be performing on day three of CMT Music Festival's festivities on August 28, 2011.


Here's what he had to say:


Taryn: First off, could you tell me a little about yourself and your family?
Bruce Good: We are actually a combination of members of two well-known groups from Canada. One being members from the Good Brothers who have been around for 40 years and then members from a band called The Sadies  who have been around for about 15 years. The tie-in is that two of the four members of The Sadies are my sons. I am Bruce Good, they are Travis and Dallas Good. Myself, Travis, Dallas and their mother Margaret originated a group called The Good Family. We used to do shows on occasion when the Good Brothers and the Sadies weren’t working.


Then later Travis and Dallas cousin Darcy Good and my brother Larry Good also joined in on this musical adventure and thus became the Good Family as it is today!


T: And to readers who have never heard of The Good Family, what would they expect to hear if they were to ever see you live?
B:  That’s where the interest comes from this. The Good Brothers and the Sadies are very different. The Sadies have a high energy leading towards country-rock. You can’t even call it country-rock. It’s been known as surf punk country blues rock. And you can combine that with the more traditional sound of the Good Brothers and the Good Family, and you’ll get bluegrass and straight on rock.


T: I know you've been around for quite some time and have probably performed at many music festivals. Do you think that festivals have changed over the years?
B: It depends on what festival you’re playing – they are very diverse sometimes. I’ve watched festivals grow. For example, There’s a festival called the Havelock Jambouree. We’ve watched it grow from 300 people to 30,00 people. We’ve watched the stage grow from a flack block, to a full on stage. Yeah I see festivals change mainly because I’ve been around so long and I’ve seen it change. And then there is the fact that you play one one weekend and one the next. They are all the same but different. Whether it be the stage, or the music, or the genre of music that’s been played.


T: How important are festivals like the CMT Music Fest, to musicians? New and experienced?
B: I think they are really important for many reasons. They are important for the fans to see that kind of music and support those kinds of shows.  It gives new bands experience they need later on in their careers. We [The Good Brothers] are doing a show on Sept 8th with The Sadies. Opening our shows are six of Ontario's premier country bands. And this is sponsored by the CMAO [Country Music Association of Ontario].  And this gives a performance opportunity for a showcase of six of Ontario’s up-and-coming country entertainers.
 


T: Do you have any favourite festival memories that you feel has helped shape you as a musician?
B: I remember playing a festival with Roy Orbison. In a small way we befriend him while on tour and I think we were playing a festival in Owen Sound and we had just gotten to know him a little bit. He came down to our dressing room after our performance and he complimented us on our show. To be complimented by him is one of the greatest accolades  for us I guess. It was great to hear him come and comment on something we worked so hard on.

Also, touring with Gordon Lightfoot and learning  big - I was going to say little - tricks of the trade. He was the one who always encouraged us to be original as impossible. We’d probably be doing less if he hadn’t told us to be original.


T: What can fans look forward to hearing when they see you next Sunday with The Gospel Bluegrass Bunch?
B: We will most definitely pepper our show with gospel but it won’t totally be gospel. Because Gospel is very important part of bluegrass, and bluegrass was always an important part of our [The Good family’s] lives so we know a lot gospel songs. If they are coming to hear The Sadies or The Good Brothers songs they will be disappointed.


Here's where we get a little off course from festival talk and I asked him about a few things that a good friend of mine mentioned to me. She just happens to be a fan of music from the 70s and I was interested to hear what he had to say!


T: A friend of mine mentioned that The Good Brothers played in Northern California in the early 70s. Were you ever involved in the Haight-Ashbury scene?
B: We were on the fringe of Ashbury. It was 1971-1972. It was still happening. We were doing hippy folk music and that was when we were involved with the Grateful Dead and Jefferson Airplane. Yeah we were down in Cali those days. It was a great experience. That’s where we recorded our  very first album with James Ackroyd.  It was an experience with a capital E.


T: You also signed to Columbia records in the 70s. What is your opinion on record labels then vs. now?
B: Record labels to day are struggling with the internet and downloading. It’s a completely different ball game than before. Plus there are so many indie labels out there as well. These indie labels probably carry more weight compared to the major labels and the talent pool is a lot greater. People are being signed all the time, but very few people are breaking the big brink.

As for the music, to each their own. I like certain types of music, as you do. I think everybody likes their music and favourites. I don’t like where music has gone as recording, and tuning voices go. It doesn’t sound real and using synths and getting different sounds. To me that’s getting far beyond the sound of real music. I like hearing real music and real voices...Tell it to Neil Young, Johnny Cash. Their voices have never been changed, never been enhanced, never enriched,  and never tuned.


T: My mom mentioned she used to see you guys perform at The Kee to Bala in Muskoka, and you've also played the legendary El Mocambo in Toronto. Do you ever go back to play these venues? Do you think it's important to remember these roots?
B: Yes we do. The last time we played at the El [Mocambo] was at a fundraiser for someone, which was a little over a year ago. It’s been awhile since we’ve played the Kee, but we have some great memories






Well, that's it! I hope you learned a little bit about somebody who you didn't know before! Bruce was easy to talk to and had lots of stories to tell. It's always a good thing as a writer to have somebody who is so willing to talk and share his past experiences with somebody he doesn't even know!


Thanks Bruce! 

8/11/2011

Bear with Me!

I am in a bit of a rut at the moment - a writing rut that is. Words just don't seem to want to come to me...which is definitely NOT a good thing!

Don't worry, I haven't forgotten about the site though! I just thought I'd let you know that I'm still out there, I am just trying to find a way to say what I want!

My Warped Tour Article will FINALLY be up ASAP...I PROMISE.

Then I have more than a few things coming up that will be posted soon too! First off next week we have the Blink-182 and My Chemical Romance show at the Molson Amphatheatre, then soon after that there is the kick off of the wicked awesome Canadian National Exhibition (aka the CNE or Ex!) and that includes a review of the fair as well as the Marianas Trench and Down With Webster show!

And hopefully (I'm still waiting for confirmation/declination), I'll be heading up north to catch a weekend of AMAZING country music at the CMT Music Festival at the end of August!

See...lots of things planned and stuff to do...so I'll be back with a vengence VERY soon!!

- Taryn xox

7/22/2011

100 Monkeys spill Bananas all over Toronto

100 Monkeys on July 9, 2011 at The Mod Club, Toronto
The first time I ever heard of this band was because of Jackson Rathbone (yeah, you know, the actor who played Jasper Hale in the Twilight Saga? Him). I'd be lying if I said I didn't start listening to 100 monkeys because of him but after seeing them perform during Canadian Music Week last year, it's been a while different story. Their eclectic sound may not appeal to the average crowd but there is just something about them that makes you want to listen.

If somebody were to ask "What (or who) do they sound like?" I wouldn't be able to give you a definitive answer. To be honest they're not exactly like anything or anybody else I've heard. With a mix of blues, funk and old fashioned rock and roll, each and every song they have is different to the core. And while the songs may be different, they make you want to dance and move to the beat. Their energy is riveting and it's hard not to follow suit.

The Ruby Spirit
The opening acts were probably my least favourite moments of the night. Which, if I am to be honest, is weird because I'm usually one to find a new band to listen to in the opening act sequences. Not this time! The first band, The Ruby Spirit, were definitely a talented bunch (nobody can deny), but they kind of reminded me too much of Lady Gaga and Blondie combined. While the lead singer's voice was powerful and strong, she just seemed to be trying way too hard. I think if she just forgot about everything and just sang that her performance would have impressed me a whole lot more then it did.


As for the second act, Bleeding Horse Express, I was not impressed at all. While the male lead showed a little more personality then his female counterpart, he seemed to spend more time silently reassuring her that everything was fine. And in the meantime she barely looked out into the crowd. It's almost as if she'd never done this before in front of a large group! (And by large group I mean barely 100 people). They were lacking the connection with the crowd and the rest of the band and it definitely didn't appeal to me. But I do like to keep it positive and the instrumentals were definitely good. So if you tuned out everything else and just listened to the beat and the guitars you'd have enjoyed their set!


By 8:15 p.m. (It was an early show as it was a Saturday night - a.k.a. club night), the boys of 100 Monkeys it the stage. BY 8:16 p.m. they had their fans rocking out.


Jackson playing guitar
One of their greatest appeals to me is how they like to switch it up - literally. They share the vocal spotlight and the instruments evenly while keeping the crowd entertained with their jokes and flirty "Canadian girls are hotter" routine. While singing favourites (of mine at least) like "Orson Brawl", "The Monkey Song", "Dirty Girl", "Wing on Fire" and songs by the late great William Bell, they also kept it fresh by singing new tunes off their new album Liquid Zoo and by doing improv! Yes, improv people! They took a moment about 3/4 of the way through the set to get suggestions from the audience as to what they could sing about. Two minutes later and after multiple "great" suggestions, they chose the theme of "I'm so easy." So for the next four minutes or so they (with Jackson on vocals) made up an entirely new song off the back of there heads. It's not often you see musicians do something like that and it truly shows you the talent this band has. 


And yes, while I was smitten by Jackson's quirky good looks and southern charm, it does not cloud over the fact that I can recognize talent when I see it. While there music may be a little avant garde, anybody who walks out of their show, walks out a fan. I know I did.


Jackson playing Drums
Later days!
Taryn


*All photos courtesy of Zebraprintsky's Miss Jenny Ellis! My photos didn't turn out so swell (stupid dark club haha), so luckily I have such an awesome concert mate who allows me to use hers!






















Annnnnd one more picture just because he is just so adorably awesome. Seriously, his southern accent is to DIE for! 


At the signing table after the show! <3

7/18/2011

Canada D'eh 2011!

Phew! Sorry it took so long to get S.C.E.N.E. stuff up! Time sadly just got away from me!

Anyways, I have to say that Canada Day has got to be one of my favourite days of the year. I am 100 per cent proud to be Canadian and I love seeing so many people come together to celebrate a great nation's birthday! I realize (as is it is almost always the case) that events like these always seem to be a great deal when you are younger. I remember always going to the Glen (a neighbouring small community) to eat pancakes for breakfast, participate in the rubber ducky races and the annual Canada Day Parade. As I grew older I recall playing baseball (I could be wrong - I have a HORRIBLE memory haha). As I grew older we toned it down quite a bit but now that I am obviously of age that I can do whatever I please, I have always tried to find some kind music event to attend on this special day. These events are great for two reasons: 1) These events are usually free (unless you went to EdgeFest!) and 2) They showcase amazing Canadian talent to celebrate the day!

 After spending the day relazing and getting ice cream at Murphy's in Streetsville, my step-sis and I eventually ventured to City Hall in Mississauga to take part in Canada Day festivities. Celebration Square is officially open after what seemed like years of construction and it was time to make use of it! And from what I heard, Mississauga celebrations were the biggest Canada Day celebrations outside of Toronto! And I can see that happening as it was packed with THOUSANDS of people by the end of the night!

Luckily I was once again able to catch These Kids Wear Crowns rock the stage. Decked out in Canada flags, Justin Beiber t=shirts and quirky outfits, they sang to a patriotic and excited crowd. As I saw them only a week before I thought I wouldn't be as interested but they sure know how to entertain a crowd and keep them entertained. Singing  fan favourites "Jumpstart", "I Wanna Dance With Somebody", "Oceans" and "Skeletons" to name a few, they were extremely successful in pumping the crowd up and getting them ready for the rest of the night.

The only thing I would have to say that I disliked was the sound quality. While I'm not sure if it was because I was extremely close to the sound system or because it was just poorly executed, I just didn't seem to be able to hear it as good as it could have been. Take note Mississauga!

Next to take the stage was Fefe Dobson. She's been around since I was in high school (which in the music world is sometimes deemed to  be a lifetime) and she's never really appealed to me all these years. With her new album Joy though, she has converted me - sort of. Although her performance was okay, her stage presence was a little awkward. To me it seemed a little forced. I also didn't like the fact she was late - for her own performance. I don't know the circumstances (could have been a bathroom emergency for all I know) but to me that was far from good musician etiquette.

(By this portion of the night, the crowd had multiplied by the thousands...just so you know)

Lastly, the one and only Shawn Desman hit the stage. While I have listened to Shawn since I was in high school (yes I'm bringing it up again - going on seven years later now) I had never really gotten the opportunity to see him perform live before. Well, unless you include the time he sang the national anthem at the Jay's game. I was thrilled when I heard he was in the lineup! While he mainly played new songs to the wild crowd, he did manage to go back down memory lane and play a few old favourites (which I gladly sang along loud and proud to). The overall performance was upbeat, energetic and extremely exciting. Oh, and not to mention the spectacular dance moves.

I have to say though, the best part of the night has to have been the fireworks. Tuned to music, these pretty fireworks lit up the sky and provided amusement to people of all ages. It seriously brings the kid out in me every time so I can only imagine what everybody else was feeling!

Proud to be Canadian!
-Taryn

7/14/2011

The Little Black Dress/The Artist Life @ S.C.E.N.E. 2011

I am combining these last two as they were my my final two shows I caught during this year's S.C.E.N.E. The great thing about the GTA and Niagara music scene (or so I think anyways) is the fact that everybody knows everybody. You see so many bands become friends after playing countless shows together, touring or meeting other musicians through friends of friends. And The Little Black Dress and The Artist Life are no exceptions - they are great friends!

I had originally heard about The Little Black Dress through two different outlets - a friend and another band (well musician really), Jesse Labelle. I am always willing to check out new music, and The Little Black Dress was definitely worth checking out.  I was instantly impressed by Dan Sadowski's unique voice and the tunes in general. I also liked the fact that the lyrics weren't as childish as you tend to find a lot of indie-pop bands to be. I find that these indie-pop bands tend to have a younger following and so the music is geared a little more towards them then the general public. The LBD's lyrics are honest and they aren't afraid to sing about sex and real life.

While nearing the end of the night we ended up in the small bar Mikado (which while it was on the "main strip" I still managed to get lost), to catch this great band. While the stage was small and the lights low, Dan and the rest of the guys still managed to have a great time. I loved the fact that Dan was barefoot on stage. It just made me feel like he was comfortable on stage and ready to have a great time while not worrying about cramped toes!

You can check out these guys on facebook, and twitter as well as pick up their EP on itunes! Great songs, great band and I had a great time watching them live! They're one to watch out for!

Now, in and around the same time, The Artist Life took to the stage at L3. The L3 is probably the venue I have visited most whenever I am in St. Kitt's and it's probably one of my favourites in general. I love the overall feel of the place and the atmosphere is always inviting. I was excited to finally be stepping back into the bar after quite an absence!

I had listened to TAL for quite some time thanks to an East coast friend (*cough* Thanks Nelle!) but I had never gotten the chance to see them perform live until this night. Their set was full of high energy, sweaty boys and a captivated crowd that seemed to enjoy the music just as much as they enjoyed creating it on stage.  Sticking to songs mainly off their recently released album Impossible, they definitely kept the full crowd at L3 entertained.

Their new album itself is rather enjoyable and reminds me of Blink 182 mixed in with their own unique twist. I find myself listening to it as much as I can. It has most definitely become one of my favourite albums for the summer of 2011!

You can also find TAL on myspace, facebook and twitter and you can also pick up their new album Impossible on itunes and in stores!

U.S.S. at S.C.E.N.E.fest 2011

The first thing that comes to mind when describing U.S.S. is crazy. Up until this year's S.C.E.N.E.fest I had only ever heard of their crazy antics they got up to while on stage. This two man band has insane amounts of energy and they definitely know how to pump up a crowd. Ash (vocals/guitar), and Human Kabob (vocals/dj) have a unique blend of techniques that create an amazing combination of alternative and rock.

While I have never listened  to their music beforehand, I was definitely enthralled.  I was amazed at the consistency and their ability to get everybody pumped up for a good hour or more. And even though I didn't know any of the lyrics, I found myself repeating a lot of what they sang.

Headlining the Marketplace stage this year, they are definitely starting to create an impact on the Canadian music scene.  With their constant touring, exposure on the radio and their two album releases, they are starting to become more and more well known. It makes me proud to hear great Canadian talent on the radio and making themselves known to greater audiences.

If you haven't heard their music I suggest you look them up now! And then you need to find out where they are performing near you and then check them out!

You can find U.S.S. on their website, facebook and even twitter!

That's it for now!

-Taryn

These Kids Wear Crowns @ S.C.E.N.E.fest 2011

Anybody who has gone to smaller shows and festivals and talked to the band knows it's no easy task to be a struggling musician. Their constant self-marketing, and endless touring can sometimes be tiring and super frustrating - but it can also pay off. These Kids |Wear Crowns, a once small town band from Chiliwack B.C., got an amazing opportunity to appear and compete to win top prize on MuchMusic's Disband and totally rocked it. It seemed for once a small town band's hard work had finally paid off. Finally getting noticed on a national scale, these six guys are working their butts off to impress music critics and fans a like. And while it took me awhile to warm up to their album, after seeing them live, I started to hear a whole different tune.

One of the many things that draws me into TKWC is their constant energy. Not going to lie, I am a sucker for bands who look like they are truly having a good time on stage. It is too often these days where bands will just stand there and sing. What's the point of paying good money and going to a show and seeing them stand there, when you can do that for the price of a CD at home? These guys are all over the stage, especially front-man Alex Johnson. At this year's S.C.E.N.E.fest that took place on June 26th, they definitely made it worthwhile to check out. Having seen them perform at Canadian Music Fest a few months earlier I already had high expectations and I was definitely not disappointed. Full of energy, excitement and fun, they rocked out to a full set and a great crowd.

The exceptional thing is they performed their high energy set on very little sleep (less so then the expected for musicians) all because of a mishap on their way from Montreal to St. Catharine's. As they explained on stage (and after their set to Zebraprintsky's Jenny ellis and I), they were on their way from their show in Quebec when their tire blew on the van in the wee hours of the morning. And if that weren't bad enough, their spare tire didn't fit and they had to wait until 8 a.m. before they could find a replacement!

"I take a cab 30 minutes back to our van, I put it on the van and we got here with 20 minutes to spare," said Alan Poettchker (vocals/guitar), during an interview with Jenny Ellis at S.C.E.N.E. 

It's a good thing they made it on time!

One of my favourite parts of the sets (besides the obvious fun songs and dance tunes), was their cover (and recently released single) of "I Wanna Dance with Somebody". The Whitney Houston song is a classic to begin with but their twist on the song is fresh and really makes you want to dance. I honestly turn up the radio every time I hear it and to see it live is just that much better. Other songs performed were a mix between songs off their new album Jumpstart as well as off their first self-titled EP. Favourites included "Skeletons," "Jumpstart" and "Break it Up".

On a final note, I would like to mention how much I love the fact that the vocals are split up between Alex and Alan. When I first listened to their music (before seeing them live) I had thought that Alex was the only one singing the main vocals. It was nice to find out that they shared the role, bouncing back and forth between the two of them. It's definitely worth it as they both have unique, and awesome voices!








Check out the interview Zebraprintsky did with Alex and Alan below!!



(I love their spirit and how super sweet these guys were...they were so willing to talk and just hang out! Wicked band vibe right there!)

You can check out TKWC on all social networking sites like myspace, facebook, and even twitter!







7/11/2011

S.C.E.N.E.fest 2011 Wrap-up

First off, I want to say sorry for lagging behind these past few weeks! I've let the reviews build up and finally they are starting to go insane!

So I attended the wonderful S.C.E.N.E. Music festival in St. Catherine's on June 26th, and it couldn't have been a more perfect day. For the first time in six (yes six) years there was not a cloud in the sky and the rain (finally!) stayed away! The weather was perfect, the music was plentiful and the people were peaceful - well almost.

We (my fellow friend ZebraPrintSky's Jenny Ellis and I) kept to the main stage to check out The Johnstones. These guys have been around for quite some time now and I swear, every time I see them live they get better and better. Not to mention they seem to appear younger as well...do we have a case of Benjamin Button here?? Needless to say, they were definitely a great kick off to the day!

Between sets on the main stage we checked out some of the War Child Busking for Change sets. I first spotted Courage my Love in the hallways at the Fairmont Hotel during Canadian Music Week and I was pleasantly surprised when I got to see them during the festival. They may be young but they have some pretty amazing voices and supporting a great cause is even better. They were definitely a hit on the old Court Room steps outside the Market Square!

Next up was KO. To be honest, I had never heard of him up until that day but it was definitely a surprised to hear his music. While not altogether my taste, he does a mix between rap and rock and he does it very well. There's something about his lyrics (taken from his own life experiences) that make the songs real and raw. He may be singing about drugs, alcohol and getting into trouble, but his lyrics are meaningful and more than a few people can relate to his past. Pretty sure I even smelled a joint or two light up at one point! Jenny (Zebraprintsky remember?!) interviewed KO later on during the day and he was nothing but humble, friendly and willing to talk. He was enjoyable to talk to in front of and behind the camera and it was nice to see that!

After KO was the wonderfully addictive These Kids Wear Crowns. Getting their big break on MuchMusic's Disband, they have been slowly making a name for themselves for the past year or two. With their funky pop-rock vibe and super stage skills, these guys definitely had the crowd rocking. I personally enjoyed their version of "Dance with Somebody", the ever popular hit by Whitney Houston. It was definitely a fun song and honestly just made you want to dance! Jenny caught up with Alex and Alan from TKWC later on to chat about S.C.E.N.E. and their crazy trip to get there! Again, super nice guys who looked like they were having a great time!

In between another lull we caught Dean Richards and Ian Blackwood from The Artist Life on the War Child stage singing acoustic to raise money. These guys are super fantastic and extremely talented.

Then it was time for The Reason to hit the stage. I've only listened to them a handful of times but they are extremely talented. They definitely had the crowd riveted and continued to rock out the S.C.E.N.E. crowd as did their successors before them. They have a distict rock sound and it was awesome to hear them perform live.

We arrived late (went wandering down the streets of St. Kitt's to take in the scene) for Silverstein but they put on a great show as well. Screamo-type music (sorry but true) hurts my ears (I'm partially deaf to begin with haha) but I have to say that when it comes to Silverstein I can always make an exception. There's just something about their music that is different to me than all the rest. They have a great mix between actual vocals and screaming and it's not too overpowering. They were definitely a great addition to this year's Scene.

Finally it was the much anticipated set for U.S.S. If you have never heard of them I highly recommend you look them up. Their unique take on dj'ing and singing puts a different twist on what you hear today on the radios. The two man band (who go by the names of Ash and Human Kabob - no lies) are so friggin' full of energy it's utterly insane! For their entire set (especially Human Kabob), they were all over the stage, into the crowds and even standing on their heads. It`s only something one can witness in person to actually believe. I can fully understand now why they are so popular!

To end off the day (which went by WAY too quickly if you ask me) we made our way to Mikado to see The Little Black Dress. These Toronto boys may have been squished onto a small stage with low lighting but they still managed to put on a great show. The mix between pop and rock has them fitting in perfectly with the scene in St. Kitt`s. I thoroughly enjoyed their set and I was glad to finally get to see them live after many missed chances in the past.

The last of the night was the much anticipated (for me anyways), The Artist Life! Again, I've heard of, and listened to their music for quite some time now but I've always managed to miss them (whether it be in Toronto or at SCENE). They have a wonderfully awesome band and they play extremely well together. Their music off their new album reminds me of a mix of Blink 182 and something else. They honestly have a great album and I totally recommend checking them out if you haven't already!

In between these main sets we got to experience the overall atmosphere of the festival. It's always overrun with the teens trying to see their favourite bands and the hardcore people who come every year but it's also a mix of everybody who just loves the music scene. I love the way the streets fill with people who are just there to have a good time. It's not often where you can pay a mere $35 dollars and get into numerous venues for as many times as you want to catch some great tunes. Although there was a venue that got shut down due to rowdiness (to what extent I never found out) and there was also a massive mosh pit that caused some ruckus at Barracuda Pretty, everything was mainly calm!

Needless to say, while it was a long day I was super thankful for the sun, the amazing music, the awesome people I got to meet and the coolest chick I got to spend the day with! Til next year folks!

-Taryn

We also managed to catch Mean Tangerine, Mookie and the Loyalists





7/09/2011

Warped Tour Preview 2011: IllScarlett

Illscarlett at Tattoo Rock Parlour During Canadian Music Week 2011
Holy! This date has creeped up on us rather quickly I must say! Next friday, July 15th, Warped will make one of only two stops in Canada this year at the International Centre in Mississauga (yes people, that`s still Arrow Hall). Craazy times, I swear. It seems that the older you get the faster time flies!

Anyways, I would like to mention today that a beloved Canadian band who has been around for quite some time now, has been touring with Warped Tour since the beginning of this year`s. They are incredibly spunky, full of energy and not something you hear every day on the radio.

Mississauga natives Illscarlett are fun, hyper-spastic, and know how to make the crowd go wild. Wherever they go, you're bound to find crowd-surfing, weed-smoking, music-loving people who know how to have a good time! Currently working on their new album, set for release sometime this year, they are steadfast in making something that everybody will enjoy listening too.

If you know what's right, you will already know who they are! But if you don't and are going to this year's Toronto Warped Tour, I highly recommend taking time out of your schedule to see these Canadian rockers as they hit the stage!

If you want to find out more about Illscarlett you can catch them on myspace, facebook and twitter!

Check out their video for Life of a Soldier (a personal fave) down below!: