Happy New Year

The year 2011 is coming to an end and its a bittersweet feeling for me. Rock was dead in 2011. Pitiful. Due to the lack of original and unique new rock bands that have not emerged and also due to my favourite bands taking forever on new material, rock was chewed up and spit out. This has caused me to develop a taste in other genres of music. Therefore, I have some interesting plans as to what I'd like to cover in my blog for 2012. Perhaps some reviews in the reggae or electronic genres? Maybe some jazz and adult contemporary? Yes, you read that correctly.

If rock doesn't make an impact in 2012, then let December 23rd be doomsday. Happy New Year :)

Senate-First Hit

If you haven't read my post on Senate, please do. After, please absorb as much of their music as possible. On December 30th, I discovered via the Senate myspace that the band is scheduled to have a reunion show on January 19th, 2012. However, it isn't a Senate reunion, it's a First Hit reunion. My understanding is that Blake Johnson and company formed First Hit before Senate. Therefore, each current and former member will play material from both Senate and First Hit. It should be a great show and it's too bad that it's in Florida.

You can visit the First Hit facebook page here. They have posted one particular song called "Two Stars" which apparently is an old song written during the First Hit era. To be honest, when I saw the brief video that Blake posted on his Youtube account, I assumed it was new Senate in the works. Never-the-less it has the trademark Senate sound. Wait...no it has the First Hit sound. Sigh. Anyways, it's good music! Hopefully either band has a new album for 2012.

Eternalism Release Date

The Panic Division will release their fourth studio album, Eternalism, on February 7th, 2012. Their official website has clips of a few new songs. It's going to be a great record! Cheers to Colton for working so hard on the next chapter of the Panic Division. BUY IT!

Neon Indian

Over the last three years, I have made an effort to develop a more eclectic collection of music. Among those selected artists was a band called Neon Indian and this band definitely stands out on my playlist. Neon Indian helped launch the "chill wave" genre of music which has also promoted similar bands like Com Truise and Purity Ring. As of December 2011, the band has released two studio albums; 2009's Psychic Chasms and 2011's Era Extrana.

Normally I wouldn't be listening to music comprised of electronic beats and machine produced rhythms but the ambience of Neon Indian's music creates such a unique sounding atmosphere. I had the pleasure of seeing them perform in Toronto on October 18th, 2011 and honestly, it was a great show. It was a show that attracted a real artsy crowd and I'm glad I experienced it. Here is a list of my favourite tunes:

Deadbeat Summer

Terminally Chill

Should Have Taken Acid With You

Psychic Chasms

Local Joke

Polish Girl

Hex Girlfriend

Unfortunately I can't upload a video clip of one of their songs due to Blogger being a piece of shit. Listen to Local Joke HERE

Single Review: "Heavyweight" by Our Lady Peace

"Heavyweight" is the first single from Our Lady Peace's upcoming 8th studio album (title TBA). After watching video clips of the band in the studio and reading reviews of this single on iTunes, this song appears to be the sound many OLP fans were waiting for. According to Raine Maide, the Clumsy/Spiritual Machines tour triggered quite the catalyst in their creative approach to the new record.

This single combines many elements of Clumsy and Gravity, which is a great blend. Mazur's fuzzy guitar sets an eerie atmosphere, especially when Maida's distorted vocals hits during the verses. The chorus contains an anthem like sound with a tight rhythm section and gang vocals, with the bridge offering an acoustic breakdown and a guitar solo that progresses into another heavy sounding chorus. Good stuff.

The consensus is obvious; this is the OLP sound that has been absent since the release of Gravity in 2002. Our Lady Peace wanted to ensure that change was made on this record and so far, it seems those ambitions were fulfilled. Now the question is, will the record be just as good or even better then Heavyweight? Time will tell. The band is finishing up the record in LA and the final product should be released in March 2012.

Rating: 4.8/5 (Random, I know)

Album Review: "Neighborhoods" by Blink-182

        After watching the 1999 classic “American Pie”, I was in a state of nostalgia. The “American Pie” franchise (American Pie 4 hits theatres in April 2012 – it looks amazing) captured and mirrored the lives of all high school and college students. They were incredible films...minus the third instalment. Why am I talking about films? Well, in AM1, Blink 182 made a cameo during the live internet screening of Jim’s unfortunate “accident” with Nadia in his bedroom. Not only were they in the movie, but a lot of their music was featured in AP 1 & 2. Therefore, Blink 182 and AP is a perfect combo. After discovering “American Reunion”, it got me excited because it reminded me of high school and yes, I listened to Blink 182. Seeing as there will be a new film in the AP franchise, why not listen to Blink’s latest album ‘Neighborhoods’.

For some reason, this review had to happen. Oddly enough, this morning (December 14th) I downloaded Blink 182’s ‘Enema of the State’ and ‘Take Off Your Pants and Jacket’, released in 1999 and 2001. Both are classic albums and will definitely be reviewed in the coming weeks. But here we have Blink’s first album in eight long years. ‘Neighborhoods’ is the bands comeback album. After reuniting in 2009, Mark, Tom, and Travis all agreed to put effort into a new record. When I heard the news of their new album, I was sceptical because the band, both individually and collectively, were very different eight years ago. Every Blink 182 record had the youthful, rebellion, punk-kid, emotional vibe to them and that’s why they stand as a timeless collection of relatable recorded teenage angst. Much like Alice in Chains and Nirvana catered to the angry grunge fans of the early 90s, Blink 182 was the voice of teenagers and young adults who were marginalized in numerous social settings. They had a song for every social subculture; nerds, jocks, sluts, innocent choir girls, punkers, artsy students, and other “cool” kids.

Here on Angel & Airwaves’ new album...oh, shit. Sorry wrong band. Wait. Nope, it’s Blink 182. Okay, clearly ANA had an influence on a good portion of the sound on ‘Neighborhoods’. However, that is beside the point. I’m over it. All I can say is that it’s a different Blink album. Their sound is refined and polished, yet if you try real hard, you can still detect the class Blink power chord progression. Seeing as their 2003 self-titled record was thematically darker than its predecessors, this is the perfect follow-up. The band is older and it really shows. As a 24 year old, some of the lyrics are relatable. In my own subjective mind, the lyrics tell the classic tale of a quarter-life crisis. It’s easy to compare one’s life to the subject matter of ‘Enema of the State’ or ‘TOYPAJ’ (drinking, partying, getting laid, etc) but these lyrics challenge the listener. ‘Neighborhoods’ causes your imagination to acknowledge and reflect on your life in the now. Everyone’s neighbourhood (Canadian spelling) was once infested with kids. The kids became teenagers, then young adults, then finally, the memories of a past generation. Within those eras of your youth, multiple events occurred that helped you transform into whoever you are now. This may seem cheesy and bullshit but it’s true.

The song “Heart’s All Gone” sticks out like a sore thumb. It’s the most old-school sounding Blink song on the record. It has a fast drive and punk hook; a definite homage to the genre and their roots. As mentioned above, the sound has been really refined. ‘Neighborhoods’ uses a wide variety of guitar effects and new instrumentation. Once again, Tom’s newly default ANA writing style was utilized in Blink 182. Although much of the record sounds like bonus tracks of an ANA record, the songs are well structured and ambitious. *Sigh* I’d be lying if I said I thoroughly enjoy this record. I appreciate the musicianship and altered sound but how you can recreate “Mutt” or “Dammit”? Maybe that was a conscious decision from the band. There really isn’t a point in reproducing the same sound, especially after eight years of inactivity.

‘Neighborhoods’ is definitely the product of a band who has hit the peak of their creativity. The album itself may not reignite the nostalgic feeling of making-out with a chick at 16; however, hearing Mark and Tom sing in unison is all you need. Yes they’re still punk but the low baritone voice of Mark and high-tenor of Toms defines Blink 182’s sound. It may not appeal to all fans but it’s worth a listen.

Tracklisting

1. Ghost On The Dance Floor

2. Natives

3. Up All Night*

4. After Midnight*

5. Snake Charmer*

6. Heart's All Gone*

7. Wishing Well*

8. Kaleidoscope

9. This is Home

10. MH 4.18.2011

11. Love Is Dangerous

12. Fighting The Gravity

13. Even If She Falls

Rating: 5.5/10



2012 RN'R HOF

On December 7th, 2011, the Rock N' Roll Academy listed their inductees for the 2012 Hall of Fame ceremony. Among were the many inductees (and the only ones I cared about) were the Beastie Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and finally.......Guns N' Roses. Holy shit.

What a line-up. It's going to be a great ceremony because each one of these inductess DESERVES the recognition. Now the question on everybody's mind is "Will the original line-up of GN'R perform?" I wish I could answer that but unfortunatly there's still some uncertainty in the relationship between Axl Rose and Slash. Honestly, they should get over themselves, champ it out, and give the world what they want. The ORIGINAL line-up (Axl, Slash, Duff McKagan, Izzy Stradlin, and Steven Adler) will definitely represent the true GN'R family. Also, to be fair Gilby Clarke and Matt Sorum should be included as well mainly because they were such intricate replacements during GN'R's popularity in the early 90s.

Time to rock and fuckin' roll.

Beyond the Lighted Stage

Rush released a documentary DVD entitled "Beyond Lighted Stage" in 2010 and it is fanastic. The documentary showcases the history of the band accompanied with photos, live performance, interviews with each band member, past and current producers, record label executives, radio DJs, and testimonies from artists such as Trent Reznor, Gene Simmons, Jack Black, Kirk Hammett, and Zack Wylde. I really recommend watching it if you're a die-hard fan or not. It really puts the bands legacy into perspective and makes you respect their lenghty career and musicianship. Why they haven't been inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame is beyond me. Let's hope for 2013.

By promoting this DVD, it also allows me to personally recommend two Rush albums; 1993's 'Counterparts' and 2002's 'Vapor Trails'. Both albums are heavy and riff driven. I'd really like to review them one day, however, my music vocabulary and sense of sound really need to be refined before I attempt to critique such great pieces of music.

OLP #8

To coincide with my previous post, here is a video of OLP in the studio.

Heavyweight

New single from Our Lady Peace. It reminds me of the Spiritual Machines era and believe me, that's a good thing.

Album Review: Zebrahead - "Playmate of the Year"

Release Date: August 22, 2000

Producer: Howard Benson

 

     Back in 2000, Zebrahead’s “Playmate of the Year” was the ideal summer Southern California album that had teens and young adults’ rock out and dance in their Randy River clothing while sipping on a Vanilla Coke. The overall sound is great; it’s a vibrant record that uses its production quality to its full advantage. With the target audience of 13-20 years in mind (aside from obvious Zebrahead fans), “Playmate of the Year” fits nicely between Blink 182’s “Enema of the State” and Sum 41’s “Half Hour of Power” on the shelf. Once again, Justin Mauriello and Ali Tabatabaee provide a killer singing/rapping dynamic as they perform songs about ex-girlfriends, house parties, failed relationships, and society observations. Well really, what else is there to talk about when your primary audience is in high school?

 Strengths on this record are “Now or Never”, “Wasted”, and “Hell That Is My Life” because they have the classic ZH sound. Mauriello’s vocal range is very impressive but at the same time can be annoying. “I’m Money” and “Livin’ Libidio Loco” are examples of whiny vocals and songs that are just plain ridiculous. I understand ZH likes to have tongue-in-cheek songs but these suck.

Hey, it’s a decent record in its entirety. This is a record I’d play at house parties because it create a relatable atmosphere. It has the pastiche of an American Pie movie soundtrack and will always have elements of a timeless sound.

Rating: 6.5/10

New Panic Division

Alternative synth-rockers, The Panic Division are back with a brand new record. Their fourth album, "Eternalism" will be released in early 2012. As of now, please visit their newly designed official website http://www.wearethepanicdivision.com/ and listen to samples from seven songs off the upcoming album.

Tracklisting

1. Marching Tide

2. Silver Rings

3. The Miracle In You

4. The Labour of Love

5. Shut Up and Leap

6. No Power Great Enough

7. Too Young To Fall

8. Melody Ave

9. Bleed

10. Lifeline

11. The Heart Is In Bloom

12. Fireflies

13. Easier



New Years Eve 2011 & OLP

If you have NO plans for New Years and live in the Toronto/GTA and Niagara region, may I suggest heading over to Niagara Falls to see a FREE concert???

Niagara Falls New Years Party!


Ring in 2012 at Canada’s largest FREE New Year’s Eve extravaganza

Date: December 31st 2011
Times: Starts at 7:30 PM, Televised Live by Global at 10 PM EST.
Location: Queen Victoria Park
Price: Free
Hosted by: ET Canada’s Cheryl Hickey and Rick Campanelli, beginning at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Global.

Featured Artists: Stephanie McIlroy, The Sheepdogs, Keshia Chante, Our Lady Peace, and the headlining act will be Simple Plan. Click here for more info.

I saw a commercial for this on Global TV in Toronto. It was a nice verbal tribute to OLP given by fellow stage entertainers The Sheepdogs, Keisha, and Simple Plan. I'm really glad OLP is recognized as more then just a veteran act but a legendary act. Let's face it, OLP has been a Canadian rock staple since 1994 and they deserve this attention and recognition.

Richard Patrick 2011

Richard Patrick is the lead singer of Filter. After the debut of "Short Bus" in 1995 and "Title of Picture" in 1999, Filter was a major success throughout the late nineties in North America. After deciding to pursue rehab after a disatrous 2002 tour in support of "The Amalgamut", Filter went on a hiatus. In 2008, a sobered up Patrick returned with Filter's 4th album "Anthems for the Damned" and 5th album "The Trouble with Angels" in 2010. After Patrick reformed the band, Filter has attained considerable success in regaining their fan base from the nineties. Filter has headlined and co-headlined many smaller venues in 2011 with the likes of Saliva, Chevelle, and Bush.

I have provided a very in-depth and detailed interview with Richard Patrick conducted through the "San Francisco Bay Area Concerts" blog. Click HERE. It's really interesting to see how Richard Patrick views new artists, record label management, artist creativity, and even the uncertainity of financially sustaining both his professional and personal life. RP is a real artist. He does NOT sugar coat anything when describing certain elements of the music industry.

In all honesty, I assumed Patrick,43, was in an unfortunate state where he could not financially continue Filter due to lack of support and record sales. His Facebook and Twitter accounts have been really focused on promoting Filter's music and merchandise. But then again, can you blame him? Every artist does that. In August of 2011, he even commented on how "The Trouble with Angels" only sold 16,000 copies. After their 2011 Fall Tour with Chevelle and Bush, album sales have majorly increased. Check out the article, it's great.

Hey man...expect NEW Filter in 2012.

Anticipated 2012 CD Releases

Here is a list of albums I can't wait to purchase in 2012:

Our Lady Peace - Title TBA (early 2012)
The Panic Division - Eternalism (early 2012)
Alice in Chains - Title TBA (early 2012)
Rush - Clockwork Angels (early 2012)
The Offspring - Title TBA (Who the hell knows 2012)
Stone Temple Pilots - Title TBA (Late Summer 2012)
Senate - Title TBA (Late Spring 2012)
The Cranberries (Yeah man! February 14th, 2012)
Filter - Title TBA (Summer 2012)

Monarchy of Roses

"Monarchy of Roses" - the latest single from the Red Hot Chili Peppers...

Album Review: "Adhere" by Senate

Released: September 2010
Producer: Blake Johnson

 As I’m listening to “Break in the Middle” by Senate, I truly don’t know how to begin this album review. I have a very interesting history with this band and fortunately, my interest in this band has increased tremendously. I discovered Senate on Breaking Benjamin’s myspace page, specifically under their “top friends” list. Out of curiosity, I clicked on Senate’s myspace page and had a listen to their material. At the time (January 2009), Senate was a five piece band that had both a singer and rapper and their sound was comparable to bands like 311 and Zebrahead. The first song I heard was “Traded” and after that, I was quite intrigued to hear the rest of their material. They had a fresh sound that I hadn’t heard in a while and I really liked that about Senate. However, as time went on, I forgot about them and my interest dwindled. Fast forward to early 2010 and after going music shopping on iTunes, I stumbled upon Senate. To ensure they were who I thought they were, I visited their myspace page and was relieved. “Traded” was the first song I previewed on iTunes and once again, my interested returned. Am I ever glad I purchased this record. Now that you have the back story to my fanship towards this band, let’s begin the review.

“Adhere” is a solid debut record. That fresh sound I had heard once before is in every song, along with high-energy guitar riffs, solid rhythmic foundations, and impressive vocal harmonies. The only thing that has changed is the disappearance of their rapper, although it hasn’t posed any major or minor threat to my interest in Senate. The production on this record is fantastic – courtesy of vocalist / producer Blake Johnson, who also owns a recording company called Clarkstreet Recordings. The album definitely has a summer vibe with songs such as “Icarus”, “Trascend”, and “Let Go”, which sounds like an ode to 311. At times, “Adhere” even gets a little heavier with “How Long”, “All My Life”, “Lock Down” and the addictive “Chasing Second Chances”. I really tip my hat to these guys. Senate is a band who enjoys playing shows and writing songs they enjoy listening to.

Don’t be fooled by the inactivity of their myspace. I, too, was a little frightened that they succumbed to “RIP – New Band” category. Let’s face it, in today’s music industry, new bands are lucky if they sell enough records and draw decent crowds to financially record new material. Up until April 2011, Senate remained inactive. I don’t know the reason, but as previously mentioned I assumed it was another new band that bit the dust. Senate is not well known in North America. In fact, they only appear to be popular in the state of Florida. Never the less, Senate has enough of a fan following to keep plugging away. For you Senate fans out there, rest assured, Blake Johnson has been posting short videos of studio updates on what will be the sophomore Senate record.

This appears to be more of a band biography then a record review of “Adhere”. Even so, if you like alternative rock – bands such as 311, Zebrahead, and Third Eye Blind, you will dig Senate. Look out for a new Senate record in late 2011/early 2012. In the meantime, enjoy their debut album. http://www.myspace.com/senatebandonline

Rating: 8/10

Yo Hello Hooray

I'm really digging this tune: "Yo Hello Hooray" by USS (Ubiquitous Synergy Seeker). USS proves to be yet another band that has refined the genre of rock n roll.