Live Acts, the ones I loved and the ones I look forward to

Is it New Year's yet?

Well we're still in that "Year in Review" part of the calender, and I've enjoyed writing these articles.  I am quite excited for Joel Plaskett tomorrow night here in Victoria, and using that as inspiration I've decided to list the live shows from the past year that I really enjoyed, and an act I really want to get out and see.




Mangan and his band at

Alix Goolden Hall

Dan Mangan at Alix Goolden Hall was a really great show.  It was awesome to see him live, after reading reviews of his shows across the country.  Every review seemed to be positive, and it was quite obvious why.  Musically the band could not have been any better, and the fun they shared with the crowd really gave the concert an intimate feeling.  You would be hard pressed to find someone that didn't like Mangan live.



Christina Maria at Lucky Bar

One performance I won't forget from this past year was Christina Maria at Girls with Guitars 2.  Although the majority of the crowd had left, it didn't seem to faze her.  Her performance was amazing.  If you left that show early, you missed out.  It's hard to keep everyones attention in a bar, especially a half empty one, but that's exactly what she did.

Christopher Arruda was brilliant to watch.  We got to see a set of his at Lyme Aid 5 in Victoria, and he was great to see in action.  It was a good set, and it really made me want to see a show that is his own.  With a band and a Grand Piano, I think this guy would blow some peoples minds.

The Malahat Revue at Sugar Nightclub
(Photo Courtesy: Jonathan Taggart http://www.jonathantaggart.com/)

I would have to say there wasn't a show I went to this year that I didn't like.  But I can't very well write about them all again here.  So the last act I'll mention that I enjoyed is The Malahat Revue.  A ridiculous group of musicians got together and played as though they've been a super-group for years.  The fact that they biked from show to show made it all the more awesome.  The best part?  Jeremy Fisher said recently they have some news coming in the New Year, possibly another tour?

And finally an act I am anxious to see.  I am going to Ontario to visit the family in June, and I've just realized that the dates line-up with North by NorthEast.  Although I won't be in Toronto that entire time, I am really hoping The Ruby Spirit will be playing a night I have available.  I really enjoyed their album this year, and have been curious to see their live show.  They really intrigue me and I think it would be quite a spectacle.

Of course there are plenty of other artists I would like to see in the New Year, but I'm even more curious to know what you will be seeing?  What artists did you love from this past season?  Let me know all about your favourite live acts guys, and thank you so much for reading!

Santa photo courtesy blogs.smarter.com

More Stuff I liked

The Island SoapBox Christmas party will never go
for "discount" Santa again...

Well I am on a role now, two posts so close together!  I felt I would just extend my thoughts from yesterday.  2010 was a pretty awesome year for music.  The longer I have to think about it, the more great music I remember!  I enjoyed getting your responses yesterday, I love hearing about what music you like, and what you are looking forward to.  Here are a few more of mine.

I am becoming a fan of Canadian Hip Hop more and more everyday.  I really don't know much about it, and I don't have a ton of artists I listen to, but the ones I do I really enjoy.  Shad is one of those artists.  After seeing him on "The Hour" a few years back, I was intrigued to hear his music.  I've been a fan ever since, and this year's release of TSOL is some of his strongest.  I listened to this album a ton.

Jon Janes approach to the music industry has made me a huge fan in a short amount of time.  "The Mountains and The Trees" is the name of Janes folk act.  For anyone who pre-ordered his 2010 release I made this for you, the East Coast musician sent the album and a hand written note to each individual.  Minimum Wage Lovers is a tune I really love from this record, and the whole thing is a great listen.  With constant touring (Including a tour with Zachary Lucky coming up!), Janes is always working hard to be heard.

I don't know what to say about 100 Blows from "Henry and the Nightcrawlers" except for, it's awesome.  I wasn't sure what to expect when I hit play, but my ears immediately reaped the reward.  It's an album with a great beat, a really fun listen, and it has certainly peaked my interest in this group of individuals.  It was probably my favourite surprise of the year.

An artist who really caught my eye this year, and who I think will continue to grow and have a huge 2011 is Steph Macpherson.  Her talent was quite obvious the first time we saw her, and over the past year she has only gotten stronger.  It seems the timing is right for the B.C. artist to make an impact, and after a big 2010 I would expect no less from her moving forward.





That concludes this go round.  I hope to here more feedback from you guys.  What albums you thought were great, what artists you think we should pay attention to, and what you're digging in general?

*Santa picture from comedy-zone.net 

December Musings from atop Island SoapBox

The economy may still be in the dumps, but 2010
was a great year for music

I don't know how many of these will come, but I do know that I'm going to have to get in on these "year in review" style blogs.  I've decided for this one I'm going to list a few albums from the past year that I really enjoyed.  Please leave any feedback, and list anything that you enjoyed from 2010.  Happy Holidays!

Jeremy Fisher's Flood was an album that I was extremely excited for all year.  I was pumped to review it, and was utterly thrilled to sit down and interview him.  The album is dynamite.  Even with my excitement, it exceeded my expectations.  For an artist who seems to enjoy more success every time he takes his next step, Flood might be a major jump.  I gotta believe there will be nominations in 2011 for this great spin.

Zachary Lucky is an awesome dude I had the pleasure of meeting on one of his many tour stops in Victoria over the past year.  A very chilled out personality who just wants to play his music for you.  You can't help but want success for the passionate singer/songwriter.  Come & Gone might be Lucky's jumping off point.  It was an album that totally blew past my expectations.  Recorded in Yorkton, SK, this is a record any fan of music can really enjoy.

A band that certainly can't complain about 2010 is Island SoapBox favourites, Treelines.  "Summer Song" was named CBC Radio 3's "R3-30 Song of the Summer" shortly after the band relocated to Vancouver.  The boys used the second half of 2010 to set up shop in Van City, and have done nothing but build momentum with their release of Young Man.




That's it for this post.  I'll get another one out soon, including a short list of acts I think you should watch out for in 2011!  Who are your artists of choice? Any albums that really blew you away this year?

Ruffle your Feathers this Holiday Season

Look, it even comes with a handwritten note.

I've got another Christmas tune here for you guys that I quite enjoyed.  Lucky for me Katie Schaan let me know about The Ruffled Feathers, and their free Christmas song "The Highest Mountain".  Great tune to add to the holiday collection!

"Our First Christmas" Tis the Season to listen...

Light Organ Records has arrived on the scene in time for Christmas 2010.  Giving us "Our First Christmas" An album featuring all sorts of local acts, and all sorts of Christmas songs that don't suck.

I'm not sure what it is about traditional Christmas music, but I've never really enjoyed it.  So when Christmas music comes around that I do enjoy, it is all the more exciting. This way I can feel more in tune with the season, and less like a Grinch!

You can tell right from the first note it's a seasonal listen.  Bells jingle and "Fa la la, fa la la" is sung perfectly by Adaline & Frederick.  The song "Let's stay inside" is a wonderful start with a great BC feel.

The Zolas actually have one of my favourite songs on the album right up next simply called "Snow".  Admittedly this is a group I don't know much about, but the after hearing this jam and really, really liking it, I'm going to check more of them out!

As usual, I won't go through every track here with you guys, but there is one more I really enjoyed.  The Fugitives put forth "Christmas at the Office Party".  It's a very enjoyable acoustic diddy, and it contains my favourite line on the album.  "Christmas, fuck yeah...fuck yeah".  I mean how good is that?  Toss in a little Harp for good measure and you have me sold.

It's great to see Light Organ Records giving us more access to local content.  This is an excellent Christmas album, and a great way to introduce yourself to some bands you may not have heard yet.  I strongly suggest giving it a spin this holiday season, it is after all, Christmas music that doesn't suck.

Dan Mangan, need I say more?

 

Dan Mangan and his band playing at
Alix Goolden Hall in Victoria, BC



You can find all sorts of news and information on Dan Mangan these days.  Google his name and pages of articles and news appear.  The thing is though, none of it is negative.  You can't find someone saying a bad thing about the man.

Dan Mangan is an asshole.  Ok, that's obviously not true, but I thought I could make this article unique in a hurry (I'm just looking for hits, it's pure greed really ;).

Truth is Dan Mangan is a class act.  His care for both music and his fans is genuine.  The man loves to play and boy oh boy do people love to hear him do just that. 

Playing to hundreds of people in halls and theatres across the country has become the norm for Mangan. The success and attention brought on from Nice Nice Very Nice, his sophomore LP recorded in 2009.  The record becoming a favourite for many fans of Canadian Indie.  Add his live show, where years of touring and playing are evident, and there is a bona fide Canadian Star here.

As proud as he is of his latest works, the really amazing thing here is how confident and excited he is to get back in the studio.  You can hear it in his voice. Nothing but positivity surrounds his movement forward.

"Nice Nice Very Nice kinda exceeded everyone’s expectations in terms of where it would go, and how many people would latch onto it. I've had a lot of people ask me, "Do you feel like you have to live up to it?" I feel more like I’m ready to just blow right by it. I’m just excited to keep moving."

Fans of Mangan know how much work he has done to get here.  Always busy and seemingly always on the road, music is the mans life.  Even this interview he has mashed in to his day, working on a sandwich at the same time.  Although being busy is nothing new, having people to share the journey with is.

"If you are on your own, and you are having an off night, there is no one to lean on except for yourself. Whereas if you have that unit, if someone is having an off night, then everyone else lifts them up.  There is that team mentality of everyone getting their head in the game and playing a great show. The band that I have are just such amazing people, everybody is able to connect in the moment. It’s amazing.

For it to be that way you have to have the collective will of everyone there, and that doesn't always happen.  So I'm pretty lucky."

Besides the ability to pick each other up, this group of musicians is helping Dan take that next step.  These guys are the reason his confidence is so evident.  In the past, it was Mangans' dream to chase, and he would hire help to get there.  Now the dream is collective, and that energy is feeding the creative process.

"This time we are going in as a much more cohesive band, and the players are just fantastic.  I think my material has grown too, it’s probably some of my strongest and most honest work yet. So they're (the band) connecting with the material, and I’m connecting with them connecting with the material, and everything is kinda circulating. There is a lot of great synergy happening in that regard. I feel like now we are entering the studio with idea we wanna create something great.

It's certainly going to be a different sounding album.  I’m so proud of Nice Nice Very Nice, but it's a couple years old now. I'm feeling like I have more to say in my career and my body of work.  I have more to say and I wanna say it. That's where I'm at now."

The Vancouver based singer/songwriter is hoping to release the record in the fall of 2011.  The group takes all that positive energy into the studio this month.  With the nominations and awards already piled high for Nice Nice Very Nice, there is no reason to think next years release could take this Canadian act from star, to Superstar.

SWAIN: You should listen to it

Back to Nan-town we go, and it's another great effort from Christopher Arruda.  SWAIN, is his latest works, a 7 song E.P. serving as a footnote of sorts to his debut full length.

I was lucky enough to chat with Arruda a while back, just before releasing this album.  He had mentioned how proud of it he was, and he had a lot of positive things to say about it.  Now I can see why.

The album starts with a tune called CJ Somers, and I really feel like this was the perfect song to start the album with.  Arruda and his vocals shine on this track.  It really feels bare to me, as though he is laying it all out in front of you right off the hop.  This is me, take it or leave it, and I love it.

As Arruda mentioned last time we spoke, there are no drums on the album, and it does move along at a slower pace.  I don't think this takes away from it in any way though.  It actually showcases the Nanaimo artist and his talents even more-so.  With smooth vocals ever present and some beautiful guitar and keys, this album is a thought provoking gem.

My favourite track is "We'd be good men".  Something about the guitar right off the hop really sucks me in, and there is something about this song that just strikes me as being so raw.

To be perfectly honest, the first time I played this album through, my reaction wasn't much more than "meh".  Maybe I was in a bad mood or something that day, because every time I play this album out now, I enjoy it more and more.  And if you have ever had the privilege of seeing Arruda live, you know the passion he brings with his music.  That passion is very evident on this record.

Arruda has had one hell of a year, and he doesn't seem to be slowing down.  With a second full length in the works as well as a move to a Canadian Metropolitan area, it looks like we are only going to see more from this talented singer/songwriter in the future (check out his new website to see what I'm talking about).

During this time of year, when the days are short and the skies are grey, this is the kind of album you need to get your thoughts going.  Lie back, close your eyes and push play.  SWAIN takes care of the rest.

Connecting with Jeremy Fisher

My latest addition to the Vinyl collection.  As luck would have it,
this was the very first Flood record Jeremy signed (Too bad I
didn't have a sharpie, and it was rainy and windy outdoors).

I think there are very few situations for a musician where forgetting the lyrics can go over well.  For the 50 plus people that packed themselves into the Spiral Cafe in Victoria on Monday night, they can all attest to witnessing this anomaly.

Jeremy Fisher played the first night of his Canadian Tour at the Craigflower Rd. coffee house to a sold out crowd.  It was a huge honour for Island SoapBox to sit down with the now Montreal-based artist before the show.  Arriving in Victoria to kick off his Canadian tour only 2 days after capping his American tour with Lights in Buffalo, NY.  Fisher was tired, but excited to be back on Native soil pushing his new album Flood, in an ever changing industry.

"It feels good to get it out you know, it's been a couple years since my last record.  It was a long time in the making and I did a whole bunch of other things while I was making the record.  So it definitely feels good to have it out.  At the same time it’s a daunting task to get out and tour and promote it.  So I'm tired but I'm happy.

It's different releasing a record now than it was three years ago. Very different.  I mean there are no stores anymore that sell records. Most people don't buy CD's.  It's a much quieter sort of affair. But I don't mind that.  I kind of like music to leak out there and you know find its way.  It's not a huge amount of pressure on release day and I kinda like that, but at the same time, the excitement of it being in the record stores, and it being a real thing out there in the real world, like a physical item.  I miss that aspect cause I grew up with it.  There's a part of me that feels a little bit sad that that's not the way it is, but everything changes."

For fans of the two-time Juno nominee, one of the more exciting things about this last record was the fact that Fisher worked with producer Hawksley Workman for the second consecutive album.  After thoroughly enjoying the process the first time around, the two were equally excited when their schedules synced up, and recording Flood together was possible.  For Jeremy, the quality of work that Workman brings, has been a real motivator.

"It's definitely important. One of the reasons I like working with him is I respect his abilities as a songwriter, performer, player.  You know when I'm working with him, and I'm in the studio with him, it makes me want to try and be that good.  Be the best I can at whatever I'm doing at that moment, so that's probably the best part of it (working with Workman)."

There is a definite vibe around Fisher throughout the entire night.  He carries himself with a very calm demeanor, answering questions thoughtfully and openly.  He also has a ton of charm.  Telling stories of picking food from dumpsters, and forgetting his lyrics during parts of his set (fans sung the lyrics to him so he could pick himself back up), these were things that actually made the show more enjoyable.  Not to mention the man can flat out play, and his voice filled the room amazingly.  It's a very human connection with Fisher, and it's clear that fans eat that sort of thing up.

Connecting with fans on a personal level is just how Fisher gets down.  From telling the Cafe a story of his manager actually walking out of his own show (due to a not-so-charming lyrical issue), to creating his own music videos, these are just different ways he shares.  Although creating a video and writing a song may sound entirely different, Fisher says the inspiration comes from the same place.

"The way it feels to get a song idea, or a video idea, the idea to rearrange the furniture in your living room, it's the same feeling. It's just the feeling of making something new.  Taking what you already have, and going out in the world and taking pieces of experiences and distilling them into art.  Technology has come so far in the last few years, now a total hack like me can make his own videos.  It was something that I always wanted to do.  All of a sudden it became available to me, so now I'm doing it."

One of the many side projects fans loved in the past year was the Malahat Revue.  The Canadian Super group (consisting of Aidan Knight, Said the Whale, Hannah Georgas & Fisher), toured over 500 West Coast KM on bicycles, playing to packed houses throughout Southern BC, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.  Fans couldn't be the only ones that really enjoyed it, as Fisher told me there would be exciting news regarding another Malahat Revue tour coming sometime in the New Year!

As the 10 year vet worked through his set, fans mostly nodded along, a few singing under their breathe, but everyone was smiling in the intimate setting.  Fisher was having fun, and it spread through the Spiral Cafe like Wildfire.  The ability to laugh at himself and roll with the punches saved him from time to time, and most certainly added to the experience for most.  For a guy who has been at it for over a decade with ever-growing success, it's still that basic love of music that keeps him going.

"Sometimes I'm very aware of the fact that I do it as a job.  You know and that's really weird.  It's a weird thought to have when you're up there.  The key is to never really let it feel like a job in the way a job can feel mundane day after day, night after night or whatever it is. 

I think the main reason I do it is just because I love the feeling of playing the guitar in particular, singing and especially performing."

The love and enthusiasm he shows for music is evident both in the interview and especially on stage.  Jeremy Fisher has plenty of tour dates left as he makes his way across the country (Miss Emily Brown is opening for him, and she is awesome!).  It was an incredible experience to be able to sit down with the talented musician, and one I won't forget.  The even better part though, it doesn't take media credentials or interviews to connect with Fisher.  You are part of the conversation the minute you become a fan, and it's that connection that makes this Canadian talent as loved as he is.

Lyme Aid 5 a great night out

Well I know it was a few days ago now, but I'm on Island Time here :) Victoria Events Centre was the stage for a great fundraiser helping support Jean-Luc Giroux, a Victoria local, and his battle with Lyme Disease. The bands and the venue were both fantastic, and it was a night that did not disappoint.

Ellisa Hartman started off the night with her super catchy tune "Smitten". It was a good crowd right from the get go, and Hartman made everyone realize in a hurry they had made a great choice for their night out. It was good to see her play, as the day before I helped Cyler Parent out on a photo shoot with Ellisa. She was just playing a few songs for the camera, but she was so awesome that I couldn't wait for the show! She is a great act to get out and see, and a fantastic way to start the night.

Next up was Christopher Arruda. I was extremely excited to see the man play live, and he exceeded my expectations in a big way. He played his keyboard the same way a mad scientist would concoct some sort of test tube Armageddon. He really commands attention and has a great voice. The show was only half over and I think we were ready to call it a winner.

Here is a surprise, Steph Macpherson was on the bill (We just can't seem to get enough of her!).  Katie Schaan and Vince Vaccaro accompanied her on stage, as well as Flugelhorn (I most certainly had to ask what type of horn it was) player known simply as Olivier.  It was yet another fantastic performance. I don't know what to say any more to be honest. Schaan and Macpherson were absolutely brilliant throughout the set, and Vaccaro added that perfect touch. It was the set of the night for sure.

A 50/50 winner was announced before Lindsay Bryan closed the evening with her set. In the true spirit of the fundraiser, the winner of the $58 dollars was kind enough to donate it back to the cause. A class act.

It was my first time really hearing about Lindsay Bryan. She has a great voice, and she had some great support on stage. She was funny and dropped a few F-bombs, which I always find humourous. I would have liked to see Lindsay play somewhere else in the line-up. Not to take anything away from the Victoria talent, but after a set like Macpherson's, you could really see the experience gap in Bryan's. Definitely a raw talent to keep an eye on.

It was obviously a very successful event. It showcased a lot of local talent, and raised some funds for a good cause. Another shining Example of local music doing good in the community.

100 Blows... It's a good thing

I gotta be honest, I'm getting spoiled over here with people sending me music.  This latest gem showed up in the mailbox a couple weeks back.  Vancouver's Henry and the Nightcrawlers are responsible for 100 Blows, their debut full length.  I have one word for it. Fun.

The group is led by Henry Alcock-White, who wrote and produced the album.  There is something unique about his voice that really adds to the fun of the album.  It engaged me immediately, and really struck me with a sense of wonder.  It's another case of music that I would not have listened to on my own, but am I ever glad that I did.

I keep thinking I have a favourite song on the album, but it changes every time I listen through.  It's a 9 song effort (plus an "edit" version of On a Week Night, making 10 total), and it's another listen that won't tempt that "skip" finger.  Right now, my favourite tune has got to be Fan the Flames.  I love the bass groove off the top, and singing along with the chorus makes me a highway rockstar.

This has got to be one of my favourites of the year.  It really does zoom by, and intrigues me as to what the group will get up to next.  They are currently on tour and have the big Record Release party scheduled in Vancouver on Saturday November 27th, at the Billy Bishop Legion Hall.  Picking this album up won't disappoint, and if you are in Van City on the 27th, the party would be a dynamite place to grab it.

Island SoapBox recommends Katie Schaan and her album "Close to Me"

Island SoapBox was lucky enough to sit down with the talented Victoria musician just last month, and with her album release just around the corner, it's a great time for more recommended listening.

Close to Me is the name of Katie Schaan's debut album.  Admittedly it's a more "Poppy" spin than I usually go for, but Schaan's talent pulls me right in.  Her voice is smooth, and the music behind her changes quite a bit keeping you interested.  I'm not sure what it is, but I think her voice would lend itself to Jazz quite nicely (that's my random one-off).

One of my favourite things about the album is it hooked me from the first note of the first song "You".  It's amazing what that first impression can do for you, it really sets your mood and expectations in a hurry.  The way her voice sounds, along with the first riff instantly put me in a great mood with positive expectations.

I think it's a dynamite debut effort.  The album shows a great range in the Vancouver Island Singer/Songwriter talents, that at the very least will create an interest to see her live show. She has a tour starting up soon in support of the 9 song effort.  With her charming personality as well, I imagine these will move nicely for her.

Making music is what Katie loves to do, and doing it for herself is her absolute passion.  It's an exciting time for both Katie and her growing fan base, and there's no reason to think this isn't the first of many Katie Schaan album recommendations.



**Island SoapBox looking to hear from you.  I'm wondering if you like the album recommendations? Do you find them helpful? Or perhaps you would like to comment on something else?  Essentially with the Album Recommendations I'm hoping to generate an interest and that you will go check it out!  So basically I'm asking, is it working? :) Comment below or feel free to email me. Thanks all

Island SoapBox Movember

Ok, so I've figured out how Island SoapBox will participate in Movember, and in true West Coast fashion, I'm announcing this November 5 :)

It's really quite simple.  For every follower Island SoapBox gains on Twitter this month (Also all comments below will garner donation), $0.25 will be donated to Movember.  Where I need your help is sending in suggestions and pictures for who the money should be spilt up amongst!  Send in your favourite staches and I'll get them up on the blog.

As of November 1, there were 618 Followers, so that's the number we'll consider 0 :)  As of November 14, 644! Thanks everybody!

Feel free to post links to your own personal Movember pages at the bottom.  This should be lots of fun, thanks for participating guys!

It finally happened, Christina Maria sits down with Island SoapBox

Christina Maria is simply all about music.  Through and Through.  I had tried to catch up with her on a previous trip to Vancouver, and we thought at one point that it was going to happen, but it just didn't work out. So I was more than happy to catch up with her last week at the "Girls with Guitars 2" show at Lucky Bar.  She was dead tired from her final Peak Performance Project report, her music video shoot (involving rigorous arm wrestling!), prepping for her Trans-Atlantic trip and subsequent record release tour, oh and she's hungry and still needs to get dressed for her show.

Still she is all smiles as she sits down for the interview.  She may be tired but her passion for music is as fiery as ever.  It's very clear that music is her life, she spends little time doing anything else.  When I asked her what she liked to do outside of music, after much thought and deliberation, it was "Sometimes in the winter I like to knit." with a bit of a smile and shrug.

When you are managing as many things as Christina is, it certainly is important to love what you do.  She is in Zurich, Switzerland releasing Straight Line to her European audience right now.  An album that she is extremely proud of, having worked so hard on it.

In the hectic fashion that only indie-rockers seem to be able to keep up with, Christina Maria hadn't even practiced with her band in Zurich prior to flying in last week for her tour starting October 28.  You can see she has some nerves about it, but you also hear the excitement and the confidence in her voice.  She is sure the show and tour will be great.

Now fans on this side of the Atlantic have been lucky enough to have been listening to Straight Line for a while now.  It's a fast 21 minutes, an EP that is quite fun and shows some serious range.  It's also cool because she worked with several producers across the country putting the album together.  Spreading the love is something that really worked well for Maria.

"I like working with other people. I'm so ADD that I can't, I just can't do one thing. I like to move around and do lots of stuff. I do like collaborating with a producer as opposed to doing it myself, cause there is always that element of, someone bringing something in that you would have never thought of and I really like that. It makes me like the music more, when there is something a little bit different then I would have done."

Christina has been doing quite well in the Peak Performance Project.  Reviews of her Red Room show were quite good and she finished 4th in the online voting portion.  Her live show must be helping this along.  The performance she put on at Lucky Bar was brilliant, pure Rock Star.  To see someone so confidently & completely own the stage through the entire set is quite a treat.  I had not been to one of her shows before the Peak Project, but I can't help but think it's paying dividends.

It's a project she has nothing but good things to say about (get a free copy of a song worked on with another Island SoapBox favourite Steph Macpherson here!).  The Surrey-born musician credits the program for things like helping her identify and reverse weaknesses that she may not have been aware of, and really creating a community and network amongst the participating bands & artists.  In Canada, where Christina finds it hard to find support as an emerging artist, she says more events like The Peak Performance Project could really help.

"There are so many artists in Canada that are super awesome, so I think it would be great if there was more support. I just went to Toronto and there was just so much talent over there. I just notice that there is not enough support for the artists in Canada, that's why it's so amazing that the Peak Performance Project exists. More stuff like that would be great."

As for supporting this talented Canadian musician, you can rest assured of your investment.  Her recorded goods are in fact good, a ticket to her live show is a great night out, and her work ethic is second to none.  She is on a Straight Line to the top, so you might as well hop on the bandwagon and help push her a little closer.

It's "Flood" season, An Island SoapBox album recommendation

When I woke up this morning ready to write my latest recommendation, I had to stop myself.  It was necessary to take a moment.  You see I am already a big Jeremy Fisher fan.  I bothered him via Twitter about a month back to see if Island SoapBox could review his album.   I was incredibly excited when I received a message back from him and an email from his PR person with a link to the album.

So when I went to start, I had to really ask myself "Is this really that good, or am I just way too excited about the whole experience?".  I think the answer is quite obvious, it's both.

Flood is terrific.  If you enjoy Fisher already, then you can pick this album up worry free.  If you don't know much about him, then pick this album up and see what you are missing out on, but be warned you will be buying up all his stuff soon after.

Furthering the diverse musician's development is his working relationship with Hawksley Workman. This is the second straight time Workman has produced for Fisher, and he credits Hawksley for really pushing him to be a better artist & musician.  For a man already so talented, it's an incredibly exciting thing for a fan to hear that drive to always be better.

The album starts with "Shine a litte light", the single in which Fisher released yet another DIY video earlier this month.  You never know what's going to happen when the very first song is the single you have already heard (especially if you really like the single).  This might be my favourite thing about the album, there is no drop off.  Every song is as good as the last.

It's 11 tracks, featuring all sorts of different instruments.  I'm not sure what it is about it, but "Alison" is definitely my favourite track on the album.  It kinda hops along and is just really fun to listen to.  The same can be said for the entire album though really, and it's an album that seems to grow on you with each spin.

There is no reason to think this album won't get some serious attention.  With two juno nominations to his credit already, Flood should conjure up some major interest.  With a Canadian tour starting in Victoria (!!) in November, now is the time to pick up this album and check him out.

Girls with Guitars 2 a success!

Christina Maria owning the stage during "Girls with Guitars 2"
Photo Courtesy: Cyler Parent (his cell phone :)

Well the night finally came, and it was a great hit!  Katie Schaan, Ellisa Hartman and Christina Maria (who sat down with Island SoapBox and an interview is coming shortly!) played beautiful sets.  Lucky Bar was the perfect venue with great sound and service.  Surge Ahead can definitely count this event as another success.

Katie Schaan opened the night.  With a good crowd from the get go, and more spilling in as the set went along.  For a crowd busy buying drinks and finding their friends, they seemed to pay attention to Schaan.  She had some good banter and recovered quickly from a broken string incident, going back stage and emerging with Christina Maria's feathered guitar (we're still not sure if Christina knows this).  Ellisa Hartman held the crowd over with some stand up comedy.

Luckily Ellisa stuck with her musical set and didn't take the stand-up any further when she took the stage next.  She's a really great act to listen to.  Her guitar playing was captivating and her voice is smooth.  The only thing we noticed was her slower stuff in the middle was so soothing it kind of tired us out.  There is no doubt that Hartman's talent will have her playing many shows in the future.

A woman who is playing a ton of shows right now, whether they be here or abroad is Christina Maria.  The Victoria crowd spilled out as the two local singer/songwriter's acts had finished up, which was probably the biggest mistake they could have made.  It's no knock to the other two acts, but Maria owned the Lucky Bar stage like we had not witnessed all night.  She may have had the smallest crowd, but she had the most people paying attention.  It was a pure "Rockstar" performance, super fun to watch and over before you know it.

The best news all night was from Surge Ahead's Richelle Newson, who said there is already a third "Girls with Guitars" planned early in the New Year.  They are doing a great job getting talented artists and great sponsors, and there is no reason to think that will change next time around.

You can check out some video of the concert over at Magmazing Music, run by my friend Adam Lee.

Girls with Guitars 2, it's here! (Well basically :)

Island SoapBox is proud to be covering "Girls with Guitars 2" at Lucky Bar, coming Tuesday October 19. Three incredibly talented singer/songwriters will take the stage that evening, and Island SoapBox wants you to know a bit more about them before you come out and see them!

So this is the final preview piece, as the show gets underway tomorrow night!  Lucky Bar downtown Victoria will be the place to be for any fan of the singer/songwriter.  You’ve already had a chance to learn about Ellisa Hartman and Katie Schaan, and I’m sure you’re looking forward to learning about Christina Maria! Well lucky for you all, that piece is coming soon, as Christina has been kind enough to sit down with Island SoapBox before the show.  

That of course brings me to the point of today’s post.  I want you all to have the chance to ask Christina anything you would like to know!  You can leave a message at the bottom of this post, you can also send me an email, or hit me up on twitter!

Both Ellisa and Katie both mentioned being excited about playing with Christina, and I myself am very excited for both the show and the interview.  She’s a very talented artist, who calls many places on the globe “home”.  She is currently involved in the Peak FM Performance Project (the one I keep telling you all to vote in, you can until Midnight Monday!).

"Girls with Guitars 2" promises to be an excellent night out.  Sponsors will be giving out prizes, the bar itself is a great venue, and the talent on stage is first rate.  Come out, grab a beer and watch some live music.  How often does that disappoint? 

Island SoapBox would like you to meet Katie Schaan

Island SoapBox is proud to be covering "Girls with Guitars 2" at Lucky Bar, coming Tuesday October 19. Three incredibly talented singer/songwriters will take the stage that evening, and Island SoapBox wants you to know a bit more about them before you come out and see them!

You know when you meet someone, and it's clear from the get go that they have an abundance of energy? That's my first impression of Katie Schaan. She was more than happy to meet with me in the morning of Thanksgiving Monday. She seemed genuinely excited about everything, and I'm sure she puts this enthusiasm to her show as well, I can not wait!

To be so excited makes sense. "Girls with Guitars" was her creation. Finding it tough to get the same sort of attention that other bands were getting, Katie saw the potential in having a night featuring strong local female talent.

"It was something I had been thinking of doing. Richelle (Newson) started working with Surge Ahead right around when we did the first "Girls with Guitars". I had been wanting to put together a show that showcased female performers. It looked like a good opportunity to be like "Hey Richelle, this would be some good practice for you, do you want to do this together?" and she just jumped right on board, which is really, really cool. It’s just really exciting. It's something that's always been really important to me. I've had a hard time being a girl, especially in Victoria, being a musician. Not that people aren’t supporting or encouraging, but there just aren’t really as many of us as compared to the boys, and we all play acoustic guitars and keyboards. You can’t really put us on a bill with a lot of the guys cause we're all sorta mellow and sing songy. So I wanted to do something that was "Everybody take a look and see what the girls can do, cause we can play too". So I'm excited to be doing another one. And Christina Maria, who is one of the top 20 Peak Performance Project members, is coming over to play, which I am so excited about, she’s amazing. And Ellisa Hartman is just the sweetest little girl, she’s super endearing and wonderful to watch, so it'll be good."

Besides "Girls with Guitars", Schaan also has a tour and an album release coming up. It's funny, because as music fans, I think we enjoy when an artist shows they can play within different genres. But at the same time it seems more difficult for the artist to sell themselves, if they don't belong to a certain genre.

"There was some debate as to whether or not I was going to release it until the New Year. I kind of live in this limbo land between Indie music and pop music and it's kind of hard to fit in either side. There was some debate as to whether I would add a few more tracks before I released it, but I’ve decided to just release it and maybe record a new EP in the New Year that’s closer to one side or the other. I’m hoping to have it before I go on tour in November, but we'll see.

It was a long process, I started working on it, I guess almost 3 years ago now, and my ex bf was producing it.  So when we broke up that obviously wasn't going to work anymore. So I had to find a new producer and it ended up being the best thing that could have happened to me. It’s been a really positive experience having worked with Adam Sutherland producing it. He was just so encouraging and so fun to be in the studio with. It's gonna feel good to have it in my hands for sure."

It may be her first tour, but the Victoria artist has put her own twist on her merch table. "Katie-made hats and scarves knit from Vancouver Island Cowichan Wool".

"It'll be my first tour, so that’s very exciting. Steph Macpherson is going to be coming with me for some of the dates on the mainland, and I'll be doing some of them with other artists, some of which I know, some of which I don’t know. I’m playing at the Duncan Garage with two artists I had never heard of before, and who are nothing like me, so we'll see how that goes. I’m sure it'll be fun, and playing at the garage is always fun.

It's a little bit scary but I'm really excited. And because it’s my first tour I’m only really playing in cities where I know people, or have friends and family and stuff who I know will come out. These are the people that have been like "When are you coming to play music for us?" so it’ll be really good.

Knitting is coming along slowly but surely. I was over in Vancouver for the last week playing for the last Peak showcase (with Macpherson), so there hasn’t been a lot of time for knitting in the last few weeks. Yesterday I had to play a little bit of catch up, but I think it'll be good, it’ll get done... I hope."

Her enthusiasm shines through the entire interview. You can feel the jitters and the excitement as she talks about them. Schaans' passion for music is evident the whole time, it's clear this is what she wants to do whether it's her own, or along side someone like Macpherson.

"Honestly I would take any excuse to play music. I don’t care who it’s with, or what genre we're playing or what instrument I’m playing, I just want to be making music. So it's extra exciting to be playing with someone like Steph who is seeing a certain amount of success these days.  Yeah I love it. I love it almost as much as singing my own stuff."

That full fledged love will shine through Tuesday October 19, when Katie hits the stage again for "Girls with Guitars" at Lucky Bar.

A blog about the office today, at Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

Well I felt compelled to write up a short blog about this spot.  I hiked in with Tobias to get some work done, found a great spot to set up shop, and work away I did! Do I ever wish I could do this full time :)

It is so nice down there.  So calming and really inspiring all at the same time.  There were tons of jellyfish (this video shows how close to shore they were coming) swimming around, I saw some seals out in the distance, there was even some fish jumping around the surface.  Felt nice to work in the sun like that, even Tobias didn't complain much.

It was the perfect spot to write up a "Girls with Guitars" preview piece.  In the meantime, check out Ellisa Hartman, as she is currently featured here on Island SoapBox!

She's all Hart...man

Island SoapBox is proud to be covering "Girls with Guitars" at Lucky Bar, coming Tuesday October 19.  Three incredibly talented singer/songwriters will take the stage that evening, and Island SoapBox wants you to know a bit more about them before you come out and see them!

Ellisa Hartman is one of those fine acts.  The 23 year old is a whole lot of talent.  Although she is in the beginning stages of her musical career, she certainly doesn't lack musical experience.  A self-described "band geek" in high school, Hartman has learned all sorts of instruments ranging from Stand-up bass to Saxophone. The guitar though, not surprisingly, is home sweet home for Hartman. 

"My father was a musician, he was a guitar player, bass player. You know when you're a kid you look up to your parents, and my dad was my hero. I'd sneak dad’s acoustic guitar out of the bedroom and try and play it when I was a kid. I taught myself how to play.  I think musicians can generally play more than one instrument, but we all have one we can play the best. It's the one I actually feel I can play with confidence."

Although Ellisa has recorded an album (Arbutus), and played with some great acts, she is still breaking into "the industry".  The music takes care of it self, writing songs are a "piece of cake" when compared to the business side and getting those songs out there. 

"It’s hard to find the line between being confident and being arrogant. I think you need a little bit of ego to do certain things, like get up on stage and sell your soul.  It’s definitely a game, you gotta play your cards right for sure.
It's hard cause you are your own promoter, and for me that’s tough. "Hi, my name is Ellisa and I'm a really awesome guitar player and you should let me play in your bar". It's a really uncomfortable thing for me to do, and I’m sure I'm not the only one.
I’m having a hard time trying to reach out to other musicians, it’s definitely not always quite as welcoming as I would like it to be. I think if we all did form a strong community, everyone would benefit from it."

Well perhaps Girls with Guitars is just what Hartman needs at this point.  Surge Ahead is showcasing just what this province has to offer, extremely talented female musicians who deserve the stage as much as anyone else.  With a talent pool so deep, the Vancouver Island talent is thrilled at the opportunity.

"There are so many talented girls all over the island, it's humbling for sure. There is a lot of great talent out there.  I think it’s a great idea. Surge has been really awesome and good to work with.  It's great that people are looking out for the small local musicians that are out there. And Lucky Bar is a really nice venue as well. Definitely looking forward to it."

Away from music, she is an accomplished diver, having strapped on the Oxygen and dove into the ocean depths in several continents.  It may be surprising to some, but Hartman says although the waters here may be colder and murkier than other places, it's some of the best in the world.

"The diving here is probably the best I've seen and I've been to Asia and Central America. The life here is unbelievable, it's just amazing."

The Scuba Diving here may be some of the best in the world, and I'm willing to bet our music scene isn't far behind.  Tuesday October 19 will be an opportunity to see the great talent that is developing right here in our own backyard on full display.

"It's the only thing I'm really good at, you know what I mean?  Everyone has that one thing. That's music for me.  I want to be a musician."

When Hartman takes the stage and strikes that first chord, cheer loud and let her know she's already there.

Island SoapBox recommends "Music of my Youth"

Well Island SoapBox is heading south of the border again, staying on the west coast though.  Mike Peralta hails from Garden Grove, California, and his acoustic album Music of my Youth is a recommended listen.

It's not the same sort of acostic sound I usually dig, it's a little "grungier".  The best way I can really describe it, it is an awesome rainy day listen (not in a depressing way).  It gets your brain moving.  The kind of sound that sorts your thoughts for you. 

Peralta has a soothing voice that really pulls you in.  Coupled with basic acoustic guitar playing, the songs are very simple and sincere.  It's a great showcase of Mike's storytelling, allowing you to really follow the story of each track.

The album flows quite nicely.  It seems to be the perfect length.  The pace doesn't change a whole lot throughout the 12 tracks, the Orange County native did a great job of not trying to do too much.  It's just a guy and his guitar, I really like that.

I can see this album getting a lot of spinning time during this upcoming rainy season.  When the weather turns sour and you're looking for a source of inspiration, Music of my Youth may be the west coast medicine you seek. 

Aged to living room perfection...

So there she is, our sweet "new-to-you" floor model record player.  Pretty excited about it, but I don't have a lot of experience with vinyl.  It was a bit of a process to get this baby working, but she spins like a charm now, and with a fresh coat of paint, it looks pretty nice too!

So this brings me to the point of this blog.  I want to know what you guys think of records? Anything and everything!  What are some of your favourite records?  Maybe you think record players are dumb, and wonder why people still spin them?  Do you have a funny moving day story about one of these bad boys? This particular player had the original manual, and was dated 1976.  What year is yours from?  Feel free to comment below, or email me, feel free to send pics and I will post them!

I only have four records right now (well six, but the two John Denver one's will be making their way back to a thrift shop :).  They are:

Frank Sinatra - My Way
Dean Martin - I can't give you anything but love
Gordon Lightfoot - The Way I Feel
Great Lake Swimmers - Lost Channels + Bonus Live at Trinity St. Paul's 7"

All comments/emails by Oct. 6 at 11:59 pm will be entered to win an autographed album, and a CBC Radio 3 T-Shirt!
Tell me your vinyl stories people! :)