Call & Response: Nitin

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
November 20, 2009
nitinNitin is a Toronto-based house/techno DJ/producer who has been moving up the international ranks thanks to his new Silent Scales EP on local underground label No. 19. Renowned producer Osunlade lends his popular touch to Nitin's new track which has been played by some of the biggest names in electronic music.

Nitin is part of an amazing underground tech house movement going on in the city right now. Quality events are being put on by people dedicated to making every night count - and top international talent are pouring into this scene.

Nitin is DJing three big events this week alongside M.A.N.D.Y. (last night), Audion (aka Matthew Dear from Detroit), and Cassy (from Berlin). I spoke to Nitin about these big gigs, his influences, and his neighbourhood.

Call & Response: Young Galaxy

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
November 11, 2009
Young GalaxyMontreal four-piece Young Galaxy first got my attention a couple years ago when I heard their song "Outside The City". Singer/keyboardist Catherine McCandless' haunting vocals and lyrics really got to me, as did the unique groove. The band seemed destined for the kind of indie stardom Arts&Crafts specializes in when the Toronto label released their self-titled debut.

I was surprised to hear recently that their second album Invisible Republic was self-released (with help from distributor Fontana North). Even without A&C backing, Young Galaxy will surely turn heads once again with a wider variety of sounds and moods on the new set of songs.

Their cross-Canada tour ends Friday with a show at the Horseshoe. I spoke with singer/guitarist Stephen Ramsay about their new album, the break from A&C, and I get his opinion on the Montreal vs Toronto thing. There's also a contest!

Call & Response: VLSONN

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
November 6, 2009
vlsonn dj photoRepresenting East York, VLSONN is an electro DJ/producer who's on the path to success. Although he's still flying under most people's radars, this guy has some great-sounding analog grooves rockin' on his Myspace page.

He's caught the attention of Craig Hill, head honcho of local label YYZ Records (home to great Toronto acts like TMDP and Madrid). VLSONN headline's Craig's Rollin' & Scratchin' party tonight at Supermarket.

I spoke with VLSONN about his productions, his dream remix project and the simple things in life.

Call & Response: Olenka & the Autumn Lovers

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
October 29, 2009
olenka & the autumn loversI first saw Olenka & the Autumn Lovers open for Megan Hamilton earlier this year at the Rivoli. They were great - a cheery collective playing an eclectic mix of folk, alt country and waltzes.

Olenka Krakus and her band of merry musicians released a couple EPs and their self-titled debut full-length in 2008. They're wrapping up an Eastern Canadian tour this week and play The Garrison tonight with Toronto favourites The Wilderness of Manitoba.

I spoke with Olenka about loving autumn on tour, the eclectic nature of her music, and writing lots and lots (and lots) of songs.

Call & Response: Todor Kobakov

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
October 22, 2009
Todor KobakovTodor Kobakov is a talented Bulgarian-born, Toronto-bred pianist, keyboardist, composer and arranger who graduated from the University of Toronto's music program at the age of 20. Aside from performing with and arranging for several high profile bands, he also submitted a fantastic string quartet remix for Radiohead's "Nude" remix contest.

Similar to Solo Piano by Gonzales, Todor's debut album Pop Music (out now on new TO label 88 Calibre) is mostly classical piano pieces played using traditional pop song structures. He gets vocal help on two songs from Emily Haines and Tunde from TV On The Radio. Those celeb guest spots might initially attract folks to this album, but the beautiful piano playing should seduce them to stick with it.

I'm looking forward to seeing Todor perform his new songs at an intimate venue on Shaw Street this weekend. I spoke with him about his musical childhood, his new album and the unique nature of his upcoming shows.

Call & Response: Shout Out Out Out Out

Posted by Gary
Filed in Music
October 15, 2009
shout out out out outI think Shout Out Out Out Out are one of the best Canadian rock/dance hybrid bands ever. When I see them play live I can't decide whether I want to dance or just jump up and down. I'm not alone. Last time I saw them play Lee's Palace, the crowd at the front looked more like a mosh pit than a dance floor.

Their latest album Reintegration Time is full of analog synth goodness, guest vocals by the likes of Cadence Weapon and production that almost makes you feel like you're at one of their shows.

But it's all about seeing them live. I can't wait to catch them this weekend at Wrongbar w/ local electronic duo TMDP. I spoke with bandleader Nik 7 about how four bass players and two drummers came together, making bad choices, and being on fire. There's also a contest!