T.O. festivals roll out killer lineups
Two of Toronto’s best summer music festivals were rolling out the lineups this week, and, things are looking very good. We’ll start with the two-day Arts&Crafts festival Field Trip. This weekend shindig on June 7 and 8 came about as a way to celebrate the indie record label’s 10th anniversary, but apparently something went very well indeed as it is back for another year. The lineup is stacked with Arts&Crafts talent including headlining act Broken Social Scene as well as Kevin Drew pulling double duty, The Darcys and Reuben and the Dark. Additional performers include The Kills, Interpol, Constantines and many more. Hydra, Leslie Feist’s new side project, is also scheduled to performer, so expect to see her playing with BSS as well. Here she is from last year’s rendition.
The other big deal this summer is the Toronto Urban Roots Festival. These guys have big hopes for a world-class festival at Fort York and Garrison Commons and they’ve went out of their way to book some amazing acts. Last year, despite a slap down from mother nature, the festival had a good deal of success. This year, the lineup looks even better. Although this is apparently only the first wave of announcements for the three-day festival, we’re happy with the likes of Gogol Bordello, Violent Femmes, Andrew Bird, Jenny Lewis and Steve Earle in addition to a bunch of young T.O. talent such as Born Ruffians, Hollerado and Strumbellas. TURF is also expanding their after-hours club series, in addition to some other added features. Check out Dawes from last year’s TURF.
Kathleen Edwards not retiring
There were frowns aplenty from the Canadian musical masses this week when, in a Facebook post, beloved roots rocker Kathleen Edwards seemed to let it slip that she was retiring. Turns out, she’s in a rut. Hey, who hasn’t been. So it’s good news in a way. She’s an incredibly talented musician, and you can’t just bottle that stuff up and put it on a shelf. She’ll be back. Hey, if you have a good song idea, or wish to offer up some words of encouragement, send her a tweet @kittythefool. Until then, check her out below performing “Soft Place to Land” from her latest album, Voyageur.
The highs and lows of Dallas Green
Renowned singer and songwriter City and Colour (a.k.a. Dallas Green) got some good news this week as his latest album The Hurry and the Harm achieved Platinum certification in Canada, his fourth album to achieve the standard. This, on the heels of coming up empty at the Juno Awards nominations and his subsequent decision to back out of performing at the Juno Awards ceremony. Not that there is a connection. Still, in a world where Hedley and Robin Thicke get piles of nominations, you’d think there would be some room for nod to one of the country's most talented artists. Just saying. Remember this performance from 2011, with Neil Young in the crowd. Come on.
Wow, these guys are really different
Toronto band Weaves has announced the release of their highly anticipated debut album. On April 1, the self-titled six-song EP will be released via Buzz Records. Apparently, the band is all offended by the “polite and humble sounds that are representative of the status quo in Canadian music.” Which, you know, ridiculous, and a pretty poor way to get attention. Yet, here they are. The lead single “Buttercup” was produced by David Newfeld of Broken Social Scene. Listen below, let them know how bold, wild and different they really are via twitter @weeaves. Look, they have two Es in their Twitter handle, take that status quo.
Synth-tastic mixtape
According to Chartattack.com, “electro-god” Digits has released a new mixtape available for download absolutely free. Shake Your Body Down is a groovy litte number heavy on the synths with an old timey, vintage feel. Check it out, it’s infinitely dance-able and a fine way to spend the afternoon. Did I mention, it’s free? Apparently, you can also make a donation. And, if you like what you hear, Digits plays live in Toronto on Feb. 28 at Encore Studios.
Shelling out for a new album
Toronto rockers Odonis Odonis have announced the release of their sophomore album Hard Boiled Soft Boiled via Buzz Records. The album follows up their debut Hollandaze, and is said to feature two distinct styles of music: one, heavier, more industrial and influenced by bands such as Ministry. The other, more melodic and dreamy. Think New Order, and Cocteau Twins. The album will be released April 15. Check out their cover of Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire” below.
