Posts Tagged ‘st vincent’

The Singing Lamb’s 12 Days of Lists – Day 12: Melody’s Best Albums of 2009

December 24th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

Green Go - Borders

Green Go - Borders

Like I’ve mentioned before, music in 2009 kind of kicked 2008’s ass. Personally, it was really difficult to narrow lists down, so much so that I’ve created separate categories at the bottom, just because I didn’t find it fair to categorize some with the other. For example, putting the Dark Was the Night or Friends In Bellwoods compilations in my list just wouldn’t be fair because it’ll kick everyone else’s ass. But regardless, what I’m trying to get at was 2009 was a good year and kind of shines a light of optimism as we head into 2010. Good job, everyone! Here’s my best of 2009 (in no particular order or rank):

The Balconies – The Balconies

If you didn’t guess this one by now, you clearly don’t read this blog enough. I don’t think I’ve shut up about The Balconies’ debut album since August, when I picked it up at one of their shows. This Ottawa trio’s self-titled debut album is packed with pop-rock punch from beginning to end, arguably one of the catchiest records of the year. Definitely the most exciting new band of 2009; I can only imagine the good things that are ahead for the Balconies in 2010.

May I Suggest: “300 Pages”, “Battle Royale”, “Ghost Fever”

Dan Mangan – Nice, Nice, Very Nice

Dan Mangan, I find, has been a hit or miss this year – either you love him or you find him utterly boring. But what some has perceived as dull and unexciting, I see as simplistic and quite amazing. Sure, Mangan isn’t breaking ground on anything new; his acoustic singer-songwriter card is quite common among the sea of music we drown in today but there’s a reason this particular album has risen above the rest, even winning him Artist of the Year at this year’s XM Verge Music Awards. The combination of that distinctive voice (seriously, how do you not love that voice) and phenomenal songwriting is really a combo to be reckoned with; Mangan produces some of the most heart-warming, cheerful and comforting tunes of the year. If this album was a person, it would be like an old friend that you’d want to cuddle up on a couch with a cup of cocoa with and just talk for hours with.

May I Suggest: “Robots”, “Sold”, “Tina’s Glorious Comeback”

The Dirty Projectors – Bitte Orca

Like I mentioned on my “Best Shows of ‘09” list, I wasn’t able to fully appreciate Bitte Orca on record till I saw them live in July, and again in November. But man, when I finally got into this album, I really got into it. The meticulous instrumentation, including the use of female vocalists Angel Deradoorian, Amber Coffman and Haley Dekle as the band’s secret weapon instruments, creates musical masterpieces within every song. There is something innately original about the Dirty Projectors and that’s why I love them; only this band can pull off what they pull off – a unique brand of Mariah Carey-esque vocals backed by rhythmic perfection, sharp riffs and exceptional song structures.

May I Suggest: “Remade Horizon”, “Stillness In The Move”, “Two Doves”

Green Go – Borders

Out of all the albums on this list, this was the one I probably listened to the most throughout the whole year. Ever since January, I developed a school-girl crush on Green Go and their music. Refreshingly energetic, Green Go’s music was definitely some of the most fun times I’ve had this year. Borders is chock-full of synths, beats, hooks and some of the best lyrics to scream along to, whether you’re in a car, a bar, or just your own bedroom (there are others out there who do this, right?). As I already mentioned, Green Go, hands-down, hottest band of the year and there will always be a place in my heart for these guys; words can’t even explain how happy they make me. If this album was a perfect ice-cream sundae, it would be topped with a disco ball instead of a cherry.

May I Suggest: “Put On Your Specs Boy”, “You Know You Want It”, “Ghosts Of The Future”

Jenn Grant – Echoes

Am I the only one who feels that this album is completely underrated? Jenn Grant’s second album Echoes is a beautiful collection of songs of heartbreak, captured in the moment. Not only are these songs relatable, but they literally reach over the headphones and Grant’s voice weaves a thread between herself and the listener, making it an intimate affair when you hear a song like opener “Heartbreaker”. Musically, Grant’s instrumental arrangements are impeccable, offering many layers that need multiple listens to truly appreciate and understand. Honestly, Echoes is an album that I’m shocked didn’t more lists this year. You guys are missing out.

May I Suggest: “Sailing By Silverships”, “Blue Mountains”, “Heartbreaker”

Phoenix – Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

This is the album that mainstream media and I agree on. Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix is just pop at its best and you can’t deny it. Regardless of your knowledge or opinion of the band prior to this album, once you’ve listen to this album, you’re immediately a converted-fan, and if not, you’d at least leave humming a melody or two. I mean, how do you not fall in love with hit singles like “Lisztomania” and “1901”? If “1901” is car commercial-worthy, its catchy shit. But don’t get me wrong, the rest of this album is just as addictive. Bon travail, Phoenix.

May I Suggest: “Lisztomania”, “1901″, “Lasso”

St. Vincent – Actor

Imagine smashing a guitar over a fairytale-esque Disney movie – the result you’d get is St. Vincent’s second album Actor. A brilliant collection of part whimsical, part intensely dark songs that only Annie Clark can master, Actor’s aesthetic reflects Clark’s signature style of heavy guitars paired with an angelic voice. Taking off from where her last album Marry Me left off, Actor is the perfect soundtrack to a twisted Disney classic of some sort and each song is hypnotic, compelling and as addictive as a poisonous apple that Snow White can’t put down.

May I Suggest: “Actor Out Of Work”, “Marrow”, “The Strangers”

Timber Timbre – Timber Timbre

Hauntingly captivating and the record of the year that got me through those dark, rainy days, Timber Timbre’s self-titled album is seriously an exquisite piece of work. Fantastically sombre, every track on this record is chillingly personal and intimate. As our guest contributor Lauren Schreiber put it, “Taylor’s talent is otherwordly…”

May I Suggest: “Demon Host”, “Magic Arrow”, “Lay Down In The Tall Grass”

Think About Life – Family

Albeit, Think About Life will always be a live-over-record band for me, Family was still a phenomenal album and definitely worthy of being one of the best albums of 2009. Bursting with oomph and energy, Think About Life’s second album is made for dancing, singing along to and yes, is occasionally mosh-pit-inducing. The main point of Think About Life’s music is to just enjoy life, live in the moment and party like a rock star and that is all you can do when you listen to Family. Combining clever samples and original melodies and instrumentation, this band pulls off some of the most entertaining tracks of the year that I never thought could be pulled off.

***

Honourable Mentions:

The Wooden Sky – If I Don’t Come Home You’ll Know I’m Gone
The Wilderness of Manitoba – Hymns of Love and Spirits
Evening Hymns – Spirit Guides
Bruce Peninsula – A Mountain Is A Mouth
Great Bloomers – Speak of Trouble
Tegan and Sara – Sainthood
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – It’s Blitz!
Young Galaxy – Invisible Republic
Ruby Jean and the Thoughtful Bees – Ruby Jean and the Thoughtful Bees
Patrick Watson – Wooden Arms

* Note: I didn’t include The Rural Alberta Advantage’s Hometowns and TuneYards’ BirdBrains because I consider them 2008 releases. Also, The RAA was on my “Best of ‘08” list.

Best EP of the Year: (tie) Sports The Band and Everything All The Time
Best Soundtrack of the Year: Where the Wild Things Are (by Karen O & the Kids)
Best Compilation of the Year: (tie) Dark Was the Night and Friends In Bellwoods II
Best Video of the Year: “All Yr Songs” – Diamond Rings
Best Triple Album of the Year: Joel Plaskett – Three
Best Instrumental Album of the Year: Bell Orchestre – As Seen Through Windows

(Diamond Rings – “All Yr Songs”)

***

Till next year! Happy holidays, everyone!
xoxo

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The Singing Lamb’s 12 Days of Lists – Day 5: Christine’s Top 10 Albums of 2009

December 17th, 2009 | By: Christine Morasse

anni rossi

Anni Rossi

I’m not a serious music critic and probably never will be. I think with my heart, so here’s what my heart liked this year:

1. Andrew Bird – Noble Beast

I once heard Andrew Bird mention how, for him, music is just another language to communicate in.  The notion is ever so present on Noble Beast; Bird successfully blends the music and the words together in a magical way, combines them to make your body and brain dive in complex sensations.  Noble Beast makes me want to live in Andrew Bird’s brain, among the giant rodents and whistled G chords.  Another masterpiece by Mr. Bird, nothing less.

2. Neko Case – Middle Cyclone

I spent so much time trying to find the right words to describe Middle Cyclone. All that comes to mind is “Wow”. Neko Case’s latest solo effort is every bit as passionate and brilliant as the critically acclaimed Fox Confessor Brings the Flood and does not disappoint. It’s a more layered album that carries you through a vast range of emotions, from the sweetness of the title track to the exhilarating feel of “This Tornado Loves You”.

3. St. Vincent – Actor

Annie Clark’s movie-like second LP is grandiose.  Grandiose in the proper, literal meaning of the word, of course.  If sometimes a bit over the top, Actor is an impressive collection of songs. The dramatic trumpets, the voice layering and the ever so violent guitars leaves you breathless with images of Victorian drama filled with blood, prince charmings and dark eyed nemeses.

4. Camera Obscura – My Maudlin Career

“No need to convince me that you’re a catch, I bought my ticket I’m sold at last” Obviously. My Maudlin Career is Camera Obscura at their best and Tracyanne Campbell’s lyrics at their wittiest. The arrangements on the album take their vintage pop to another level with the syrupy trumpets of “Honey in the Sun” and vividness of “French Navy”. What more can I say, this album makes me feel all fuzzy inside. (In the best way possible)

5. Language-Arts – Where were you in the wild?

They (“they” being the team of experts in my head) say that every year you should have one of those definite “wow” moments. Language-Arts were my “wow” moment of Oh-Nine. Every track sounds new and exciting. It was like a breath of fresh air in a gloomy month of October. The vocals are quirky and the music reminds of old Why? albums and Dylan at the same time. It’s stunning. The album was self-released by the Vancouver band and is their first full length. I can’t wait to hear more.

6. M Ward – Hold Time

In addition to Monsters of Folk’s wonderful first album, M Ward found some time to treat us to some of his blissful/gloomy guitar folk. With collaborations with Jason Lytle, Lucinda Williams and the “she” of She and Him Zooey Deschanel, Hold Time made me sway with a cheesy grin on my face. With songs like “Shangri-la” and “For Beginners” taking you back to 2006’s critic favourite Post-War and fully showcasing Ward’s deep vocals, Hold Time never gets old.

7. Anni Rossi – Rockwell

When the man who discovered Scout Niblett sends another of his protégé into the music world, you have to open your ears and take in the sounds. I saw Anni Rossi open for Camera Obscura and Noah and the Whale earlier this year and I was blown away.  Most of the songs on this album consist of voice and viola and the simplicity of it all gets you all hooked up (cue Broken Social Scene). Oh, and she covers Ace of Base’s “Living in Danger”. She’s quickly been labelled as the “next Regina”, but don’t let the people fool you, Anni Rossi is considerably different from everyone’s favourite Russian girl. See her Handheld Shows sessions here and here.

8. Iron and Wine – Around The Well (B-Sides and Rarities)

Sam Beam found his way to the very center of my heart this fall (so did Sarah Harmer but that’s another story and I couldn’t find a good enough reason to put her in my top something of 2009, everything seemed too far-fetched). This two disc collection of b-sides and rarities is perfect, if only for “Communion Cups and Someone’s Coat”.  It suits the hard-core Sam Beam fan and the Iron and Wine newbie.

9. Amy Millan – Masters of The Burial

Beautiful covers, simple melodies and great lyrics. What more can you ask for, really? Mandolin. But that’s also on there. “Ghosts weren’t meant for bleeding”; your honor, I rest my case.

10. The Rural Alberta Advantage – Hometowns

Technically this is allowed, right? The RAA’s formerly self-released debut album was re-released on Omaha, Nebraska label Saddle Creek and I’ll admit it, I was a bit late on the RAA ship. I blame it on teenage drinking and my reluctance toward everything Albertan. I don’t think I need to say how great and refreshing The RAA are, but I’ll mention it for good measure, The Rural Alberta Advantage are the next big thing.

***

Honorable mentions go to Jenn Grant for Echoes, Arts and Crafts newcomers Still Life Still with Girls Come Too (yes I really did like the album, and not only for the clever title), Dirty Projectors, Ohbijou with the beautiful Beacons and the always wonderful Julie Doiron with I Can Wonder What You Did With Your Day. There was also a great number of fantastic francophone albums this year, but that’s the subject of another post (hint hint). Be sure to watch out for The Luyas’ new album, due out some time in early 2010. Alright, bye bye 00’, hello 10’. I’m ready. (Someone please wake Fiona Apple up, I’ve been wishing for a new album since 2006, I’m about to move on with my life now.)

Zut Alors, 2009
Christine

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The Singing Lamb’s 12 Days of Lists – Day One: Leah’s Top 9 of 2009

December 13th, 2009 | By: Leah Robinson

Neko Case

Neko Case

I don’t know how the rest of you are feeling, but the arrival of December hit me like a giant sack of alarm clocks, sending all those projects and to-do lists I’d put on the back burner into a rolling boil. As I’ve been scrambling to tie up loose ends and reflect a little on the past year—honestly, I was just getting used to it being 2009—I’ve compiled the following rather self-indulgent list of the earcandy that I’ve been gnawing on for the last 365 days or so. The significance of the number 9, if you were wondering, is not great—it merely reflects an aversion I have to even numbers (and thus, top 10 lists) and I felt it was appropriate, given that we are bidding farewell to the 9th year of the new millennium.

1. Neko Case – Middle Cyclone

From that long ago first listen to the song “Letter from an Occupant” I was struck by the force of nature that resides in Neko Case’s chest. And even more than my addiction to the delicious sugar-pop she creates with The New Pornographers, I’ve become hooked on her solo material which, laden with animal desire and natural imagery, is delivered in a dynamic voice whose power is unmatched in music today. Fox Confessor Brings the Flood, Neko’s 2007 release, blew me away and honestly deserves a spot among the top records of the decade. Needless to say, Middle Cyclone was highly anticipated by all, and it did not fail to deliver. From the glorious ruckus that is “People Got A Lotta Nerve” to the naked vulnerability of its title track, Middle Cyclone alternates between making me run through the house punching and twirling through the air and breaking my heart.

2. Camera Obscura – My Maudlin Career

As much as the lyrical content of Camera Obscura’s newest album matches Tracyanne Campbell’s love-affair with all things melancholy, it also carries the joyous sonic qualities (ahhh those horns!) that I’ve come to love from this band. It’s the bittersweet juxtaposition of the shadows of life and the joie on My Maudlin Career that glues my finger to the repeat button. A beautiful rainbow sorbet of icy-sweet flavours, every track (well, almost every track—perhaps I’ll exclude a certain song about a boy whose name starts with a J) on this album is a favourite. I mean, it even makes my three-year-old niece do some elated prancing around the room.

3. Amy Millan – Masters of the Burial

Now, I must pause to mention that there is just something about Amy Millan’s voice that I will never get over. It posesses this spark that has the power to make one die a little inside and then subsequently be revived as though by a gulp of fresh air (if you really need a specific example please refer to Millan’s breathy line, “this scar is a fleck on my porcelain skin” from Stars’ “Your Ex-lover is Dead” and you will know what I am talking about). While a fan of her first solo release Honey from the Tombs, I feel like Masters of the Burial is a much more cohesive album; the gentleness of Amy’s song-writing style and her voice are the through-line that makes even her cover songs sound like originals. Directions: Listen when in need of lullabies to soften the ears and put the mind at ease. Best when enjoyed with tea and good company. And maybe some biscotti.

4. The Dirty Projectors – Bitte Orca

a)      Do you hear those sounds? Those are girls, singing.

b)      Why isn’t this band more famous?

While their debut release floated a bit off of my radar, Bitte Orca has me head over heels for the astonishing harmonies and poppy guitar riffs that are The Dirty Projectors’ specialty. Perhaps one of the greatest strengths of this band lies in how versatile they are, easily sliding from the bravado that is “Cannibal Resource” to the softer tones of Angel Deradoorian on “Two Doves”. I hereby mandate that it become part of everyone’s Saturday morning routine to blast a little of this sextet’s energetic sound through some big speakers. The world will be a better place for it.

5. Think About Life – Family

Without a doubt, Think About Life threw two of the craziest shows of my entire concert-going year. From these experiences I’ve learned that it is physically impossible to stand still while their ridiculously catchy retro-synth-dance-pop-whachamacallit tickles your eardrums. Every single track on their sophomore release, Family, screams DANCE! SING! ME-OWWW! Brought to you by a bunch of crazy geniuses from Montreal (yeah I know, something in the water), this is the album that will make even the blackest hearts love music again.

6. St. Vincent – Actor

St. Vincent a.k.a. Annie Clark a.k.a. Polyphonic Spree and Sufjan Stevens collaborator has created her own oeuvre of solo work that pairs songs of Disney-esque sweep with often times eerie reverb and mad guitar work. This style resulted in the brilliant collection of tracks that were released on her debut album Marry Me, and has spilled over onto her 2009 release of Actor. The dark imagery of Clark’s lyrics conveyed in her crystalline vocals is both chilling and addictive. I can’t tear my ears away.

7. Sunset Rubdown – Dragonslayer

Even though Sunset Rubdown’s latest release came in the form of an 8-song EP, this little gem deserves a place on my top shelf because, to put it simply, it is awesome. Definitely going for quality over quantity on this one, I would venture to say that this is my favourite Sunset Rubdown album, ever. Containing one of the best songs of the year and Bucky Award nominee for best lyric, “Idiot Heart”, Dragonslayer is captivating from beginning to end, capturing all the elements of Sunset Rubdown that I most love and distilling them down to one perfect little package.

8. Dark Was the Night: A Red Hot Compilation

I’ve already broken the rules once by including an EP on my list, so there’s really no harm in also throwing in a shout-out to this amazing compilation, because it deserves it. I usually enjoy compilations for compilation sake—that is, I enjoy hearing new songs from certain artists, even if they aren’t hit singles or chart-toppers. Rarely does a compilation, however, manage to combine so many (two discs full!) of great artists’ tracks and be as unbelievably cohesive as Dark Was the Night is. Bravo to the guys at The Red Hot Organization for facilitating such great musical collaboration and harnessing pop culture in the fight against AIDS. Containing new favourites including, but not limited to, Feist and Ben Gibbard’s cover of “Train Song”, Justin Vernon and Aaron Dessner’s “Big Red Machine” and The National’s “So Far Around the Bend” this album is all kinds of wonderful.

For more information on the The Red Hot Organization and its endeavours, visit http://www.redhot.org/

9. Dan Mangan – Nice, Nice, Very Nice

From pounding back insane amounts of coffee to lubricate the creative writing process, to having intense Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em-esque robot wars in alley ways (if you have no idea what I am talking about, please refer to the latest video accompaniments to Dan’s “The Indie Queens are Waiting” and “Robots”) to winning the XM Verge Award and storming CBC Radio 3’s Bucky awards, 2009 was a busy year for Vancouver native Dan Mangan. Still on tour, Dan is traipsing across the world in support of his sophomore effort, Nice, Nice, Very Nice. This album is like an old familiar blanket: it slips comfortably around the shoulders like it’s the most natural thing in the world. It might even have some of those electric heating pads for extra warmth. The chorus of “Robots,” a true chorus in that there are many voices singing the refrain, contains undoubtedly one of the best phrases of the year: “robots need love too, they want to be loved by you……”

And there you have it—a list of albums that makes me weak in the knees. Here’s to wishing for giant helpings of snow and big sounds in the New Year. Be kind to each other.

Peace,
Leah

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Let’s Chat: St. Vincent

August 18th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

Annie Clark a.k.a. St. Vincent

Annie Clark a.k.a. St. Vincent

The Singing Lamb: So have you been in Toronto this whole weekend?

Annie Clark: Um, no; well sort of. We went to Hamilton yesterday to play; we played a show last night.

And then you came back here?

Mhmm.

That’s a tad random!

Yeah, well I’m flying back to New York tonight so it is a little random.

How do you like Toronto?

I really like Toronto. I haven’t spent enough time here but every time I come the crowds are great and really warm and I always manage to find good food! And actually, I have a number of friends who are from Toronto so I feel like there must be something in the air here.

Where did you eat?

I got taken to a place by Bob who works at my label; I don’t remember what it was. It was good though! It was around, oh what was that place I played at? Not Lee’s Palace but…

The Horseshoe?

Yeah, the Horseshoe!

It’s a good venue, but it can get a little stuffy near the end sometimes.

Oh yeah.

I don’t know if it was like that onstage but…

No! I walked offstage and my shirt was soaked in sweat, so yeah it was pretty hot up there!

How would you describe your live show to someone? Say, if you had to sell it to them or something.

Oh man, I hope I’m never in a position where I have to sell it! Or I have to pass out flyers on the street saying come see me play; I hope I don’t have to do that! I don’t know. Let me think about that…I have no idea, I’m sorry!

That’s okay! What’s more nerve acting: playing a show or recording an album?

Both are nerve acting in their own ways. Mostly live is just exciting and you get caught up in it. I don’t get terribly terribly nervous anymore, performing live, especially when I play with the band. It’s like you’ve got four other people who are there and are going to do their best and just kind of support you if you falter. But recording an album I think, there’s just generally a slow burning amidst pressure whereas it’s sort of like a rollercoaster ride. I think anybody who’s made a record will tell you that one day you’re in love with it and you think, “Ah, this is great and wonderful and such a contribution to music,” and then the next day you’re like “Oh my god, this is awful!” You’ve got to give the label their money back because this is bad! But you kind of trudge through it; it’s as much of an emotional exercise as much as it’s a musical one, I find.

How do you think you’ve grown from your last album?

I think I’m a better arranger, I think stylistically I’m a bit more refined. The first record was sweet and enthusiastic but a bit more theatrical, in sort of a cabaret way that’s not really where I am anymore and I think I’m a better guitar player than I was when I made the other record. Hopefully I’ve just improved upon everything.

Do you remember the first time you played a guitar? What was it like?

Yeah, actually. I just kind of fell in love with it, I couldn’t put it down. Because I’m such a fan of music before I actually picked up a guitar at 12, it was like unlocking some sort of mystery, like “Oh, this is how people do it!” I mean at the time, I was only vaguely approximating anything that resembled music but you almost can’t believe when you learn one of your favourite songs on guitar you’re like “What? This is how they did this?” and you’re still kind of like “It doesn’t sound exactly like they do!” but you also have the thrill of it that’s like you think you sound a lot better than you do and it makes you work and play and play more.

What was the first song you learned?

I think the first song I learned was one that my mom taught me, I think it was “Puff the Magic Dragon” because she was a hippie and she knew a few chords on guitar so she taught me that but the first song I think I learned in a guitar lesson was Jethro Tull’s “Aqualung”.

Cool! I read that your recent album Actor was inspired by soundtracks, especially Disney ones – what’s your favourite Disney soundtrack?

It’s probably a toss up between Snow White and Sleeping Beauty.

Why?

Well both of those are fairy tales unlike, say 101 Dalmatians or something and I’m a sucker for that mixed choir and orchestra in a giant room sound. The heavy vibrato voices are very moving to me, so probably those.

Do you feel like you achieved that on your own album?

I think I did my best to approximate it. If I wanted to replicate it I would need a mixed choir and giant room and an orchestra! But next record…look out!

In your past two album covers, you’ve used photos of yourself. I was wondering if there was a reason why.

I think the idea was to not give a whole lot away about what the music should sound like or would sound like so I intentionally went for a placid, almost non-communicative facial expression. The third record’s going to be like a giraffe and a squirrel playing tennis though, it’s not going to be my stupid face on the goddamn cover – sorry, please don’t print that, don’t print the cursing!

That’s fine! Were there any other ideas for album covers?

Bowie always put his face on the cover, like Dylan, you know it’s always some kind of iconic photograph and I was just trying to emulate the 70s.

Well it works! And finally, if you were a singing animal what would you be?

I always liked deers. Deers? Deer…what’s the plural of deer? Is it deers?

I think deers only because there’s a band called the Dears…

I know, but isn’t that d-e-a-r-s?

Yeah…

Well yeah, I would say a dear.

Why?

I just like them! Bambi! Yeah, I have a soft spot in my heart for Bambi.

I don’t really remember that movie; I saw it when I was young.

I just remember the flames killing Bambi’s mother! Right? Didn’t that happen?

I think so!

Hmm, tragic. And Thumper! I loved that movie, actually! That was a good one. I’ve got to re-watch that. Check it out again! I’m sure it would be entertaining.

Definitely!

For more St. Vincent,

MySpace

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News Update!

May 26th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

One Hundred Dollars

One Hundred Dollars

I apologize for the lack of updates lately; I’ll try my best to keep you guys up-to-date more often! In fact, if someone could find me a job [desperate plea alert], I promise I’ll update the site every day! It’s a challenge, Lamb readers, but if you can do it, I’ll owe you big time. [Okay; enough begging] But for more Lamb news every day, make sure to follow me on Twitter! Some updates are random and useless (e.g. “My legs apparently don’t work today; I tripped three times on the street. One woman gave me the deepest look of concern.”) but many of them are actually music-related (e.g. “Rock Plaza Central @ Sonic Boom tonight (7 pm) – see you there! Oh, and Dog Dag tomorrow @ Soundscapes (6 pm); crazy!”)!

Also, congrats to Jordan W. for winning a pair of tickets to Slim Twig and a copy of Contempt! Thanks to everyone who entered! There are still two contests running, so don’t forget to enter those!

Here’s some news!

The aforementioned St. Vincent show at Lee’s Palace is going to be at the Horseshoe now. So mark that down – Horseshoe, not Lee’s! Which also means you better buy your tickets before they sell out. You can stream St. Vincent’s recent show in Washington, D.C. now on NPR.

One Hundred Dollars will be playing “their only full band show in Toronto for the summer” on June 12th. Opening for them will be Deep Dark Woods and Jason Benoit; definitely not a show you’ll want to miss out on! Tickets go on sale this Friday for $8.00. This show is 19+.

1990s recently canceled their June 3rd date at the Horseshoe, along with several other tour stops due to “unforeseen circumstances.”

The Witchies will be opening for Sunset Rubdown at Lee’s on July 10th. Tickets are on sale now for $13.00. This show is 19+.

In addition to opening for Camera Obscura at Lee’s in June, Anni Rossi will also open for Micachu at El Mocambo on July 14th. Tickets are on sale now for $12.00. This show is 19+.

Other Show Announcements:
The Lemonheads @ Lee’s (July 4th, $20.00, 19+)
Peter Murphy @ Opera House (July 11th)
The Charlatans, Hatcham Social @ The Mod Club (September 23rd)
Electric Prunes, Love, Sky Saxon @ Lee’s (August 14th, $25.00, 19+)
Company of Thieves, Blackie Jackett Jr. @ Drake (June 2nd, $10.00, 19+)
Man Man @ Lee’s (July 13th, $15.50, 19+)

Yeah Yeah Yeahs have a new video out for “Heads Will Roll” (from their latest release, It’s Blitz!). Watch here.

Regina Spektor has not one, but two new videos out! Watch “Laughing With” here and “Dance Anthem of the 80s” here!

Apostle of Hustle’s Andrew Whiteman was recently on Exclaim! TV’s Garageland. Watch here. Also, don’t miss them at the Music Gallery this Friday; tickets are still on sale for $22.00. This show is all-ages.

And last but not least, the Polaris Prize long list will be announced on June 15th this year, followed by the short list on July 7th. The Polaris Prize, just as a reminder, is an annual prize that is given out to the album, that’s decided upon by a jury, who is believed to have been the “best album of the year”. Along with the title, the winner also receives $20,000 and some bragging rights. Eligible candidates must’ve put out a record between June 1, 2008 to May 31, 2009. Past winners included Final Fantasy – He Poos Clouds (2006), Patrick Watson – Closer Than Paradise (2007) and Caribou – Andorra (2008). The winner this year will be announced at a gala celebration in Toronto on September 21st, 2009. Who do YOU think should be nominated?

Happy listening!

Musically,
Melody

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News Update!

May 20th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

The Dirty Projectors

The Dirty Projectors

It kills me that I have to pass on TV on the Radio and The Dirty Projectors in June, but I’ve sworn off the Sound Academy since my last excursion (with some exceptions, of course). Bad news is that I’ll miss TV on the Radio for sure, but good news is that the Dirty Projectors will return later that month for a show at Lee’s with Skeletons on June 24th!

Other show announcements:
Abe Vigoda, Talbot Tagora @ El Mocambo (July 22nd, $10.00, 19+)
New York Dolls @ Lee’s (June 30th, $29.50, 19+)
Fake Problems @ Sneaky Dee’s (July 7th, $10.00, 19+)
Bowerbirds, Megafaun @ Sneaky Dee’s (July 14th, $11.50, 19+)
Four Year Strong, Set Your Goals, Fireworks, Swellers, Gravemaker @ Reverb (July 18th, $16.00, 19+)
The Datsuns @ Horseshoe (July 20th, $15.00, 19+)
White Lies @ Phoenix (September 26th)
St. Vincent @ Lee’s (August 8th, 19+)
Underworld @ Kool Haus (August 11th)
The Rural Alberta Advantage @ Horseshoe (July 30th, 19+)
Tokyo Police Club, Winter Gloves @ CNE Bandshell (August 29th)

Ruby Coast is slated to play at the Horseshoe on June 20th; most likely as part of NXNE. No Age has also been confirmed to be playing at Lee’s on June 19th for NXNE.

St. Vincent recently released a bonus track to her latest release, Actor. To listen to “Bicycle”, click here.

Another new Regina Spektor track has been released from her upcoming album. “Blue Lips” can be streamedhere. Far will be released on June 22nd.

An Horse has a new video out for “Camp Out”. Watch here.

And last but not least, congratulations to Gonzales for officially breaking the record for longest concert! Read more about it here!

Happy listening!

Musically,
Melody

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News Update!

April 13th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

Olympic Island Fest!

Olympic Island Fest!

Time flies by really quickly. It just felt like yesterday that I had begun my year at school and now, I’m faced with the horrifying week leading up to my final exams. So most of our staff will be busy studying their asses off instead of dancing their asses off at shows and writing about it for the next two weeks. We will still be covering International Record Store Day on Saturday though! For now, bask yourself in this ocean of news from the past weekend!

Last night, I had heard that the lineup for this year’s Olympic Island Fest was going to be announced this morning. Now I sit here with a presale ticket ordered for the July 11th show – that’s how impressive it is.Broken Social Scene have returned to headline the festival for the first time in two years, with other performers including Explosions in the Sky, Apostle of Hustle, Beach House, Thunderheist and Rattlesnake Choir. Presale tickets can be purchase here OR here right now!

The Water, a short film directed by Broken Social Scene front man Kevin Drew, is based on the song of the same name by Feist, and stars the songstress alongside Cillian Murphy. And although it hasn’t gotten the best feedback from viewers (read the comments on the link provided), I personally found it quite beautiful and an admirably job well done on Drew’s part. Watch here and let me know what you think!

Metric, who will be at the Mod Club tomorrow night with Holy Fuck, have a new video out for the first single off their new album Fantasies, “Help, I’m Alive”. Watch it here.

As previously mentioned, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs performed on Saturday Night Live this past weekend. Here’s the end result. “Zero” was definitely better to hear live, but overall both performances appear to lack the energy and enthusiasm that we’ve all become so accustomed to. Not their best show, but still great to watch if you’re a big fan of the trio. And also, “Maps”? Really? You couldn’t have chosen something from Show Your Bones?

Listen to Animal Collective’s Remix of the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s “Zero” here!

Immaculate Machine will be at the Drake Hotel on April 30th, but potentially without female vocalist Kathryn Calder. As mentioned on the band’s MySpace page, Calder won’t play many of the out-of-town dates but will certainly be present for the May 8th show in Vancouver. So basically, don’t expect to see Calder at the Drake.

The Decemberists, with opening acts Heartless Bastards will be making a stop at the Kool Haus on August 3rd.

In support of his upcoming album Yes!, k-os will be playing a free show at the Kool Haus on May 9th – well, sort of. A donation (to the David Suzuki Foundation) is suggested for this show and in return, attendees will recieve a free copy of Yes! It’s Yours (a remix companion to Yes!).

Can’t wait till May 9th? k-os will also being throwing an album release party at Wrongbar tomorrow night. Doors will be at 8:00 pm and DJs will include DJX, DJ P-Plus, DJ Fase, Lil’ Jaz, DJ Barletta, Mikey Apples, DJ Dalia & Numeric.

Peaches, who will be in town supporting her new album I Feel Cream on May 20th at the Phoenix, has a new video out for her single, “Talk To Me” - watch here. Also, if you visit her site right now, you can watch a mini-documentary of the electro-rock-shocker.

Gentleman Reg will be playing two free shows in Toronto in case you miss him opening for A Camp at the Mod Club on June 1st. First, he will be at Sonic Boom this Saturday, as part of Record Store Day. He will also be back in June, performing on the South Stage of this year’s Pride Toronto celebrations.

The Pack A.D. will be at the Drake Hotel this Friday, but if you miss out, they will also open for The Hanson Brothers & Potty Umbrella on April 25th at the Horseshoe.

Japandroids, Still Life Still and the Two Koreas will be at El Mocambo on May 9th.

In addition to a show at the Mod Club on April 27th, Anni Rossi will open for Camera Obscura at Lee’s on June 27th.

Gomez will be at the Phoenix on May 29.

Headlights will open for Lonely Dear at the Rivoli on May 8th.

Casiotone For The Painfully Alone and Crytacize will be at the Boat on July 8th.

Randy Bachman will be playing a free show at Yonge-Dundas Square on June 5th, as part of the Luminato Fest.

According to last.fm, Attack in Black, Julie Doiron and Kathleen Edwards are slated to open for City and Colour at Massey Hall.

St. Vincent has a new video for the fantastic new single, “Actor Out Of Work” - watch here.

Time for some library talk:

Firstly, The Toronto Zine Library will be holding a fundraiser this Saturday at 69 Buy the Pound. This fundraiser will include a vegan bake sale and performances from We Were Former, Tonnn and Andre Theriault. Go and support our local zines!

Secondly, are you happy with our current selection of music at our public libraries? If not, read this article and make some suggestions!

And finally, as a sneak peek of what’s to come at this year’s NXNE, event man extraordinaire, Dan Burke has planned a kick-ass line up at the Silver Dollar and Velvet Underground including bands such as Zoobombs, Red Mass, CATL, The Golden Triangle, The Two Koreas, The Sedatives, “PIZZA PARTY” DJs, Teen Anger, Hexes and Ohs, and Revolvers. More details on these two shows and many more coming soon! NXNE lineups will officially be announced next month so watch out!

Happy listening!

Musically,
Melody

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News Update!

February 20th, 2009 | By: Melody Lau

St. Vincent

St. Vincent

Just a few pieces of news for everyone today!

The Thermals will return to Toronto on May 3rd at the Horseshoe, with guests Shaky Hands.

St. Vincent will return in May with a new release (finally!) entitled Actor. Here’s the tracklisting for the album:

Actor:
01 “The Strangers”
02 “Save Me From What I Want”
03 “Neighbors”
04 “Actor Out of Work”
05 “Black Rainbow”
06 “Laughing With a Mouth of Blood”
07 “Marrow”
08 “The Bed”
09 “The Party”
10 “Just the Same But Brand New”
11 “The Sequel”

For more information and a look at the album cover, click here!

Fever Ray (also known as one half of The Knife) will be making a tour stop at the Phoenix on May 25th.

Also stopping by at the Phoenix will be King Khan & The Shrines, with guest Mark Sultan on May 12th. For those who missed out on their in-store at Sonic Boom a while back, I suggest you just pay and see them – they’re worth it.

That’s all for today!

Happy listening!

Musically,
Melody

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