Getting to know Treelines

These guys are awesome. Straight up. Their new E.P. comes out on Canada Day. Awesome-er.
Together since 2008, Treelines released their first full length (Self-titled "Treelines") in 2009, a 10 track album that rocks front to back. Distinctly Canadian, lyrically awesome, it's an album you can play skip-free. "Canadian Airlines" one of two songs available free to download from that first album (www.treelinesmusic.com), leaves you wanting more immediately. The song reads almost like a story-book, piano, drums, and guitars colouring in the pages. After purchasing the rest of the album, it's 9 more entirely different story books. July 1st is already a great day to party. Now we have one more reason. "Young Man" the bands newest release, a 6 track E.P. is available Canada Day. If it's anything like the first full length, you can play it directly after the National Anthem. The band was kind of enough to answer some questions for The SoapBox. You're Welcome.

The SoapBox:
Your first album was so good, the listener can really relate with the music quickly, and north of the border, can take heavy Canadian Pride in the music. How do you follow that up?
Treelines:
The intention of the first record was never to come across as 'Canadian' or anything, it just sort of turned out that way, which I suppose makes sense considering all of us have grown up here. Matt's lyrics are something we can definitely all relate to, but he definitely didn't make any specific effort to give the songs a wintry Canadian feel. However, we`re definitely humbled that it comes across that way, and we're happy that our 'Canadian' imagery is something that people seem to identify us with.
Similarly, this EP wasn`t written with an aim to turn out any certain way; we just tried to write what we think are good songs. As a result of having a solid lineup through this whole writing process, it's also more of a cohesive album, rather than just a collection of songs.

SB:
How will it compare to your first album?
TL:
Musically it's definitely a little more upbeat overall, but lyrically it's pretty similar in style. The title track 'Young Man' (which can be downloaded for free on our website) is a pretty good indicator of what to expect.

SB:
How does the band feel about music sharing, and the availabilty of music online these days? From the outside looking in, with free downloads and $2 CDs, it would appear that Treelines has embraced this culture. Do you think it results in more fans, both at home and at shows?
TL:
I definitely think that it does. These days, as an artist I think you pretty much have to accept that people will be getting your music for free no matter what, and I think that if artists stopped fighting it, it could work in everyone's favour. I've always felt that anyone who wants to buy an album, either to support the artist or just to add to their collection, is going to buy it regardless of whether they downloaded it or not, so I don't see the 'risk' of offering it inexpensively or for free. Although I believe that recorded music is a valuable form of art, I'm such a huge fan of live music that I see a recording as more of a vessel for getting people out to live shows to connect with them that way. It's cyclical, especially for newer artists. If no one has heard your music, who will come see you play, if no one sees you play, who will support your next album, etc.

SB:
Canada Day seems like a great day to release a record, how did you guys choose to do that?
TL:
Well, originally we were talking about a June release, but as I'm sure any artist can relate to, production of the record kept getting pushed back. We really had no specific date in mind, and more than anything didn't want to rush into it for no good reason, so we just figured that July 1st was a logical choice. That being said, we also just thought releasing it on Canada day would be pretty sweet.

SB:
I’ve noticed a few shows posted after the album drops, can Treelines fans expect more tour dates to follow?
TL:
Absolutely. Right now we're just finalizing the details of CD release shows all over BC, but they will be posted on our website within the next couple of weeks.

SB:
Not everyone could sit in a van for months on end with the same dudes, how do you guys manage to do it?
TL:
Matt and Steve are brothers, so they've pretty much got it figured out. Those two and I all live together, and Ryan is just the most easy-going dude ever, so it's really not hard. We've all been friends for years so getting along just comes naturally.

SB:
What is the food of choice on the road?
TL:
It depends who's behind the wheel. Ryan likes candy, Matt likes McDonlads, Steve's pretty much down for anything, and I like vegetables and am not huge on fast food, and I get mocked for it at every opportunity.

SB:
How do you find touring BC and Canada?
TL:
We always have fun, we've been fortunate to play with some great artists and great friends and to have met many great people so far. That being said, Canada can be pretty cold in the winter... Matt had to get the inspiration for the song 'Canadian Airlines' from somewhere.

SB:
Best/Worst part of being on the road?
TL:
The best part of being on the road is first and foremost just having the opportunity to play music. Being able to share your music with others is definitely something very special. I personally have always found it funny when artists have much to complain about when it comes to being on the road. The second I step into our van knowing I get to drive somewhere, spend time with the best group of dudes ever, meet new people, and play music, I just feel overwhelmingly fortunate. I suppose if I had to pick one thing to complain about, it would be the occasional lack of an opportunity to shower in the morning.

SB:
If you could open for any 2 acts right now, who would they be?
TL:
There are countless artists that we'd love to play with, but The Weakerthans or Sloan would be unreal.

SB:
What does the band like to listen to on the road? Some of your fav artists?
TL:
We all have somewhat different taste in music as far as what we listen to while driving, to name a few of our favourites:
Matt L: Spoon, The National, Joel Plaskett, The Hold Steady etc
Matt K: Attack In Black, Gaslight Anthem, The Weakerthans (the other dudes aren't around to answer but I can definitely say that Ryan loves Mew, and Steve loves Strung Out)

SB:
Who would the band consider influences?
TL:
The Weakerthans, Sloan, Attack In Black.. again, we all sort of come from different musical backgrounds, so it's difficult to pinpoint one specific sound that we draw influence from.

SB:
What are you looking forward to most this summer that is non-music related?
TL:
Cliff jumping, camping, boating, no socks, cut offs, barbecues, pilsner, hammocks, hanging out at our house.

SB:
My girlfriend and I only just moved to BC last summer, where is the 1 spot we absolutely have to check out?
TL:
If you're in Victoria, grab swim shorts and drive out to the Sooke pot-holes. You won't be disappointed.

SB:
What do the Canucks have to do? :)
TL:
Hire Matt Lockhart as their GM and try again next year.

You can stay up to date on Treelines very easily, they update their www.twitter.com/treelines often, as well as their website www.treelinesmusic.com where you can find all their merchandise and music (currently their are 3 free tracks available). You can listen to their entire first album on the website as well. If you do, make sure you have a couple bucks available, you will want to buy it. So on July 1st, in between back bacon breakfast and moose meat poutine for dinner, I suggest cracking your beer in one hand, and "Young Man" in the other. Raise the beer to your friends "Happy Treelines Day".

Vancouver Island getaway at Dolphins Resort

Well Campbell River rocks. That is the impression I'm leaving with, and it entirely has to do with Dolphins Resort (www.dolphinsresort.com). We stayed two nights, taking advantage of the weekend package special. Full Breakfast both mornings and a three course dinner on Saturday evening. The dining area has maybe 15 tables, probably less, and is exactly what you would expect from a fishing resort with such a history. A beautiful wood fireplace sits in a stone wall, the other walls are typical log cabin, with pictures of treasured catches lining them. One wall is just windows and the entranceway, a spectacular view of the ocean and nearby Quadra Island. The service is top notch, friendly and attentive. I over heard some locals at dinner calling the restaurant "One of the best kept secrets in Campbell River". We can only imagine. The food was spectacular, delicious and fresh. Every course of dinner was great, most of it is local and organic, and we could not have been any more happy each and every time we left the restaurant.
We stayed in the Beach House, as the name suggests, you can't get any closer to the water. The cabin sits directly at the end of the resort dock, windows lining the ocean wall. A spacious and very private deck offers a hot tub, and endless opportunities to spot wildlife swimming by. A large King Size bed, and beautiful stone fireplace occupy your lounging area of the cabin. A modern kitchen and bathroom are the perfect finishing touches.
At night, the hot tub is so peaceful, it's almost a shame to turn the jets on, drowning out the sound of the surf. You definitely have to just enjoy the warm bath and crashing ocean on this deck, the sounds of nature are marvellous.
We were there for R & R, but if you are looking for many ways to fill your days, the area has more than enough. Ocean activities surround you, Mt. Washington is not far off, and there are plenty of hiking trails, one only a 5 minute drive from the resort.
Dolphins Resort is a great experience, with great staff and an exceptional location. If you're looking for a weekend activity on Vancouver Island, I strongly suggest this wonderful resort.

Artist Spotlight H.W. (Hazardous Wastes)

It's been a while, so here we go again.
This time around we are talking Boston Hip-hop artist Joshua Decosta, or H.W.(Hazardous Wastes). Now I know what you're thinking, "I thought you were on a Canadian kick...". Well I was, and still am, but this talented artist contacted me, and now I must spread the word.
His music is excellent, the beats catchy, and the lyrics are personal. You know he believes in his own music, and as the listener it seems easy to relate with.
"I've been writing since 2001 and performing since 2004, I have grown quite a bit over the years and I am just starting to really enjoy my music." Lucky for us, with H.W. starting to enjoy his own music (and why wouldn't he?), we can look forward to more, and it only getting better from here. Especially lucky for those of us living North of the Border.
"I love playing Canada, way more then performing in the states, it just seems like people respect and are more responsive to hip hop out there. So having a good rep is very important to me. If I could just tour Canada I actually might." What can we say Mr. Decosta, people love us ;) Seriously though, H.W. has upcoming tour stops in Canada (www.longlivehw.com), and is an active member of the www.twitter.com/joshhw community. The opportunity to see any act live is always great, and a true test of how good that act really is.
"The best part about performing is playing for a crowd that doesn't know you, and throughly enjoys your music by the end." With confidence like that, one can imagine the live act is quite enjoyable, and a great night out for a fan of hip-hop.
For fans in Toronto, May 24 you can circle on your calender, as Josh will be making a stop at Rancho Relaxo. If you are a fan of TFC, you may have an issue before the concert even starts.
"My favorite team is The New England Revolution! I live for soccer." Well nobody is perfect right? The revolution make a visit to BMO Field May 22nd. On enemy soil, perhaps Mr. Decosta won't make too much of a scene, but you can bet the same won't be said when he takes the stage during this tour. The tracks and albums are FREE on his site, and the show is coming to Canada, there is no better time to hop on the band wagon for this indie talent.

Album of the Month/Week/Day

I thought you all deserved a treat, so I have come up with this :) Said the Whale and their album "Howe Sounds/Taking Abalonia" from 2008.
This group takes pride in their music and in their country, and in return, Canada takes pride in the group. With a moose and evergreens front and centre on the bands website (www.saidthewhale.com), Canadiana is on display. The music, is no different.
There is no better album going to match the happiness of Spring. Crawling out from
Canadian Winter (although most of us had a pretty easy go this year), this is a listen that will bring a smile as big as the sun (in fact listening to the album may be even healthier than a good dose of sunshine, forget vitamin D!).
The album uses different sounds, and skipping between genres at points, (including bubblegum folk (”The Light Is You”), thundering hard rock (”Last Tree Standing”) and gentle ukulele ballads (”The Real of It”). It truly is a treat, impossible to tire of, because you're not sure what you will hear next.
It makes sense that the band has such diverse talent. Recently during a "twitterview" ;) the band listed Phoenix, Gord Downie, and Jay-Z as artists the group collectively enjoys.
Of course the band released "Islands Dissapear" last year, and the hit single "Camilo(The Magician)", which grew the bands fan base even larger. This is also a very good album front to back, but I think fans will agree, listening to "Howe Sounds/Taking Abalonia" makes you like the follow up even more.
With the band touring almost non-stop, fans get plenty of chances to see the group perform, and a great mix from recorded albums, as well as songs yet to be recorded. The energy from the songs definitely makes its way to the stage, as the performance is fun to take in, knowing the band likes playing the songs as much as the fans like listening.
Perhaps the difficult part for the group now, is whether they can continue to put out top notch albums, one after the other. With so much touring, you wonder how the band has time to write at all. Yet all they do is record great tracks, one after the other. Something tells me that Canada has plenty more to look forward to as "Said the Whale" evolves, let's all enjoy the ride and grow with them.

Random Thoughts with a new Mountain Bike

I'm trying really hard here, can you tell? Recently I purchased a used mountain bike ('04 Kona Cindercone), and I am incredibly excited to get riding. I am planning on making my XC racing return May 22nd in Nanaimo as part of the Island Cup Series. Having said all that, it's funny because I have no front wheel or seatpost yet, so even riding at this point hasn't happened (good thing I'm planning on racing already). Also, while running new cables, I have nothing to cut them with, and I managed to ruin one of the four. The rust is thick folks...
When it comes to putting the bike together, I am trying to do everything as cheaply as possible. This sport can get expensive FAST, so I'm really trying to ease back into it. I'm also having to read many product reviews, and see what is what in the world of mountain biking. 2002 was my last season of riding, I'm trying to figure out what has changed since then.
One thing that hasn't changed is the fact maintenance will increase the life of your bike and components. It sounds simple, yet goes to the wayside all to often. I'm really going to take an interest in all aspects of bike maintenance, there is pride to take in the fact you keep up your own ride.
I am told there is no lack of local trails to hit up (Mt. Work being the go to it seems), so training will have to begin very shortly. I look forward to attacking singletrack again. It's been too long since I've ripped through the dirt, trees whizzing by, blurring your peripherals, you swear you can hear the knobs of your tires grabbing at the ground, and earth is the smell that fills your nose. That is what I can't wait for.
If you have any riding/training/maintenance tips, drop me a line please!

Road Trip Mix Tape

Hello all,

I thought since it was the New Year, with everyone planning their road trips this year, I would release Vol. 1 of the Mix Tape Specials. Check it out, give it a listen, love it, hate it, could care less? Let me know, and make a mix tape of your own while you are at it!

Track Artist

1. One Track Mind (Feat. Joel Plaskett) Classified

Luke Boyd, or better known "Classified" has been at it for a while now, and it's hard not to get hooked on the beats. I know this song came out early last year, but it still has me hooked, not to mention, who doesn't want to listen to a hip hop artist from Halifax? The final piece of the puzzle for this tune, hooking up with fellow East Coaster Joel Plaskett. The two sound great together, the song is super catchy, a great way to start a road trip tape!
From the Album "Self Explanatory" 2009

2. Natural Disaster Joel Plaskett

This might be a little slow for a road trip, but it's Plaskett, and I'm arguing just about any of his tunes are great in the car. Joel has been doing his thing since the early 90's, and his fan base grows each and every year. Last year's release of "3" launched Plaskett into the Stratosphere, so I thought I would offer up something from a previous album, to show this was of course no fluke.
From the Album "La De Da" 2005

3. The Day We Hit the Coast Thrush Hermit

OK, I'm sure you are onto me by now. It's a Plaskett threesome! Thrust Hermit released a few albums and a few EP's throughout the 90's, and this March they announced a 6 show tour, with shows in Halifax, Peterborough, Ottawa and Toronto. Giving these band mates nearly 10 years to mature themselves as musicians, these upcoming shows should give fans a truly great, musical experience. I picked this song because it's 6 and a half minutes long, you can get between some cities in that time.
From the Album "Clayton Park" 1999

4. Lemon Meringue Pie Jeremy Fisher

Well I've finally left Joel Plaskett behind, only to hit you with another Plaskett story. I woke up this morning and read Jeremy Fisher is heading out to Halifax to work with the East Coast Music Award Winner. It's pretty much the perfect combination if you ask me. Fisher has a great voice, and the music always seems to carry joy with it. He also has a really cool video for his 2007 single, "Cigarette" from the album "Hello Blue Monday", on YouTube, which is completely homemade. This tune isn't that stereotypical road trip song either, but I think it's perfect for the really scenic parts of your trip, where you can picture the slow motion movie montage of it in your head.
From the Album "Let it Shine" 2004

5. Ulysses Franz Ferdinand

This single was released in January of 2009, so why not bring it back again this January? Let's face it, you can pretty much grab any tune off this album, and it's perfect for the road. Some will argue that they sound the same in and out, but I like that sound.
From the Album "Tonight:Franz Ferdinand" 2008

6. 19-2000 Gorillaz

I've always really liked this album. There is something to it, that I don't find on "Demon Days". The groove and the way the beats fall, I find the album is almost hypnotic. This song just comes out of Franz Ferdinand nicely, and I feel is a good representation of the entire album. The group has sold over 15 million records, and is currently working on their 3rd studio album. Not bad for a "virtual band".
From the Album "Gorillaz [UK] 2001

7. The Way I Am Ingrid Michaelson

This song has a stand-up bass off the hop, so I am on board. This New-Yorker has a great voice, the vocals will keep you interested, and the music behind her invokes thought and reflection. At 2:15, it's a perfect tune to give everyone a chance to get a drink, enjoy a bit of silence, and reflect on the journey so far.
From the Album "Girls and Boys" 2007

8. I Feel It All Feist

1, 2, 3, 4... Remember that one? I love Apple. More East Coast talent here folks. Her music is interesting, it incorporates a lot, and her voice really sounds unique. This is an upbeat jam, great for the car, and her singing comes out of the previous song quite nicely.
From the Album "The Reminder" 2007

9. Dropkick Queen of the Weekend The Dudes

The Dudes... I really wish I was musically inclined, just so I could help name a band. I heard the name and loved them without hearing a note. Thank God they're good. These guys have been around since the 90's, but the Calgary group blew up when this single released across the country. Weezer, The Flaming Lips, Joel Plaskett and Thrush Hermit are some influences for The Dudes.
From the Album "Brain Heart Guitar" 2006

10. What'cha Know About Donavon Frankenreiter

Hang on, that's not Jack Johnson? Get out of here, that's Jack Johnson. Well at least his name would be easier to say or spell if that were true. Having said that, bringing up the famous Mr. Johnson does mean two things, Mr Frankenstenier can play guitar and sing, well. Of course the two are friends, they both surf, and they both make kick ass music.
From the Album "Donavon Frankenreiter" 2004

11. You Ain't Shit Daniel Wesley

This is the only other guy on the list that I know surfs. After recently seeing Daniel Wesley play an acoustic performance, I quickly realized a theme with Mr. Wesley. The BC native likes to tell stories of Costa Rica, surfing, and he mixes in quite a few songs featuring, maybe, what BC is best known for. After saying all that, the guy can sing, he's personable, and this is a great tune for a car sing-a-long.
From the Album "Outlaw" 2006

12. No Sleep Sam Roberts

There is not much that is needed to be said about Sam Roberts. Six-time Juno winners, their music is proudly Canadian, and known coast to coast. The song has a great beat to nod along to, and a great reminder of our multi-cultural country.
From the Album "We Were Born in a Flame" 2003

13. Comme des Enfants Coeur de Pirate

Yes, Sam was just warming you up for a 3 minutes worth of francais. CBC Radio 3 fell in love with Beatrice Martin, and the rest of the country has followed suit. Recently this song was voted "Best reason to learn french" as part of the 2009 Bucky Awards (where Martin was also crowned "Sexiest Musician 2009"). She's obviously dealt with some pretty public issues, but she doesn't try to hide from anything, and her voice will carry you through, whether you know the language or not.
From the Album "Coeur de Pirate" 2008

14. The Old Prince Still Lives at Home Shad

After possibly nodding along for the last 5 minutes mostly clueless to what's actually being said, you can continue nodding, but you might as well smack that smile on, ear to ear. This tune is catchy, it's funny, and it's half done. The London Ontario native started releasing albums in 2005, when he won some cash to record. Although this is a lighter song, Shad is an artist who uses music to communicate his views.
From the Album "The Old Prince" 2007

15. Listen Steph Macpherson

Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay must be all to familiar for Steph Macpherson. Calling Victoria and Vancouver both home, Macphersons' "Listen" is about winter on the Left Coast. This woman can flat out sing, the song rips along behind her wonderfully, and for someone on the road as much as her, she had to land a song on a road trip mix tape.
From the Album "To You" 2009

16. Ain't No Rest for the Wicked Cage the Elephant

Time for another sing a long! The 2008 single was certainly the most successful from the album, and the Kentucky natives do a great job on the entire album with guitar riffs that keep you hooked, and Mathew Shultz vocals are interesting, and fun to sing along with.
From the Album "Cage the Elephant" 2008

17. Ishmael and Maggie The Trews

You need the "Friends and Total Strangers" album this time around. The recently recorded semi-acoustic set (The band called the tour Acoustic, however Electric Bass was used the whole time, so that's how I feel about that). Having said that, The Trews headlined the show with Daniel Wesley, and they were phenomenal. Getting away from the heavy electric that usually accompanies the vocals, this time around The Trews really sound clean and rich. Did I mention another East Coast band?
From the Album "Friends and Total Strangers" 2009

18. Black Day in December Said the Whale

The first thing you see when you visit the bands website is a moose, front and centre, top of the page. These guys are as Canadian as they come, knowing all about the road trip. This tune runs along at a great pace, and reminds us of Winter on the Pacific. Touring almost non-stop, Said the Whale is known to be a real treat live.
From the Album "Islands Disappear" 2009

19. Sick as a Dog Brad Sucks

Well I just thought this band name was funny, who knew the music would be catchy. A self described "One man band with no fans", the music has qualities to it that make you want more, but wonder why you want more? It's diverse, it's good, and it's free. This guy has taken a very cool run at the music industry, check out his website and story.
From the Album "I don't know what I'm doing" 2003

20. Soft Shock Yeah Yeah Yeahs

It seems every time I hear something about music, somehow this bands works its way in there. This album does the same thing the Gorillaz album did to my brain, somehow I become entranced when listening to it. Once again this was a tune that I thought went great with the last one.
From the Album "It's Blitz" 2009

21. Disease (08/03/08) Allison Crowe

If your destination is still a ways, don't panic. At just over eight minutes, you have time. Allison crashes on the piano in this one, which is great to listen to, almost venting your anger for you. Just don't drive like the song. She can sing as well as she tickles the ivory, and her music really is a treat to listen to. She is another artist giving her music away, taking on the industry slightly different than most. The idea is for the free music to be shared, so share we shall, on the road no less!
From the Album "Little Light (Originals)" 2008

22. Crazy Game of Poker O.A.R.

I told you not to panic. It really doesn't matter what version of this song you have, you're probably looking at 9 minutes, plus. This particular version runs nearly 13. These guys are fantastic for road trips as well, easy to sing along with, great to yell along with, and you're hard pressed to find someone that doesn't like their music. Since 1997 they have been pumping out studio material, not to mention all the live music. If you haven't made it yet, this song will get you there.
From the Album "Any Time Now Disc 2" 2002


That's it folks! Let me know what you think. Make your own play list! Tell a friend to make a play list. It's a great way to expand your listening.
peace

World Junior Hockey Championship

Canada makes final!

Am I the only one out there who actually doesn't give a hoot? This tournament is boring, TSN pumps it, and they do a good job of packaging the whole thing, but Pierre McGuire and that big headed screaming guy are awful. Every play sounds like the end of world is on the line, and it is the most exciting thing ever. In fact (Photo: Courtesy Canadian Press) as human beings, our eyes were actually created for this very tournament, and the goal that puts Canada up 13-0 (or even 6-1 in a WORLD semi-final).

I'm not arguing these kids aren't great hockey players, and in a lot of cases they are future NHL'ers, I'm just saying it's getting a little out of hand. I'm a little bit embarrassed watching the tournament, and constantly beating teams into oblivion. The competition needs to be much more level, before this tournament is truly as exciting as it's advertised.