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THE HOTEL LOBBYISTS
Eazy-E, Bone Thugs, Big Tymers, you name it: the bitches-n-money ghetto-rap is slamming the minute I crack the door. Jordie Dammet, bassist for bar-rock goodboys The Hotel Lobbyists (and sideman for country boozer, Shiloh Lindsey), is boot-...
A Seven Inch Mixdown - Myelin Sheaths, Cosmetics, La Corde, The Orpheans
A Seven Inch Mixdown by Rene Milord: First up is an Albertan band called MYELIN SHEATHS with a disjointed, noisy, poppy, post-punk EP. It’s kind of sloppy, perhaps better live? Hozac Records 047 (at Pat’s Pub, May 6) Next up ...
Celebrating the Music of Vic Horvath
Victoria singer-songwriter Vic Horvath hailed from Calgary but settled in BC’s oceanside capital (a move they discuss in the song “Shiney Shotgun”). After a couple of years of performing, touring and popping out the odd single, they finally released
Review: Mercy Mercy by The Glorious Sons
New single by The Glorious Sons a catchy summer hummer.
Neil Young's Harvest Moon given new life in B.C. jazz star's latest album
Victoria's Maureen Washington lays it all on the line in her new album, which remembers her husband
On the road with Cambridge
Cambridge has been prominent in the Vancouver punk scene since late 2005. Tour is nothing new to them; this is their second cross-Canada run. The first one went quite well up until a breakdown in Brandon, Manitoba caused them to miss some s...
Cracker
Cracker Sunrise in the Land of Milk and Honey 429 Records Since the early 1990s, and most famously with 1993’s platinum selling Kerosene Hat, Cracker has been providing an interesting take on contemporary alternative country (think ...
Marble Rye CD release party Friday May 8th
Marble Rye CD release party Friday May 8th w/ The Matinee and Analog Bell Service The Railway is a decent room to watch a few amazing local bands tear it up. Even with a totally irrational layout that makes it appear packed to the gil...
Critical Comments
Critical comments by various curators and interviewers of artist Brandy Saturley
DJ
Music von Frankenstone
VIctoria Musicians Stage Tribute to Gord Downie
Victoria musicians stage tribute to Gord Downie. Proceeds benefit Cool Aid Society and BC Cancer Agency. Interview with Lola Parks. Show organized by James Kasper of Mighty Speck Records.
Tanya Tagaq at the Farquhar Auditorium Sept 18, 2024
Guests at the Farquhar Auditorium are in for a special experience on September 18. Tanya Tagaq, Inuk throat-singer, composer, actor, author and activist, opens the venue’s fall season. Tagaq performs qiqsaaqtuq, with the Victoria Symphony, and sivuniti
Victoria Book Prize Finalists Annouced
Celebrating 13 years, the Victoria Book Prize Society is pleased to announce the finalists for the 2016 City of Victoria Butler Book Prize and the Bolen Books Children’s Book Prize.
Memorial Arena left a capital legacy
Despite a shaky start and a history of missteps, the Barn on Blanshard had plenty of good times - See more at: http://www.timescolonist.com/memorial-arena-left-a-capital-legacy-1.9377#sthash.DfPdmRdo.dpuf
Summer & The Sinners � Can�t Keep a Good Girl Down
Let me preface this review by saying I’ve known Summer since she was barely out of her teens and coming out to sit in or jam at various venues I was playing at around Victoria BC. I’ve watched her career with great interest and she has ...
Robert Wise: Obituary
WISE, Robert Allan Born March 30th 1949, Victoria, B.C. An ideas man, designer and sculptor, Bob died at home on October 22nd, 2010 with wife Valerie and dear friends Tom and Shelley Lietaer at his side. We asked our close friend Jane Wrigh...
Still Blue CD Review
Bill Johnson contributes eight originals to his Still Blue, each one a fine example of a contemporary blues song, not merely a retread of a familiar 12 bar theme, and each sung in his evocative voice. The variety of approaches, from the sne...
Haren Vakil at the Gage Gallery, Feb 16 2021
http://www.artopenings.ca/haren-vakil.html
Interview with The Delirians
Interview with The Delirians done in June, 2012 by D'Arcy Briggs Ska Fest: When and where did you guys meet? When did you decide to form the band? Delirians:  Most of us, like many other bands, grew up in the punk rock scene, ...
Finding Home: Paintings by Marnie Faunt and Karen Kaiser
Preview: http://www.artopenings.ca/kaiser--faunt.html
The Arrogant Worms tap fans for new album funds
Trio aims to raise $20,000 for first album in 8 years.
Passion of R&B highlights next Willows free Concert
Passion of R&B highlights next Willows free concert Brandy Moore and the Nightcaps perform Aug. 9 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in Willows Beach Park CHRISTINE VAN REEUWYK / Aug. 2, 2018 10:30 a.m. / ENTERTAINMENT / LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT Brandy...
Singer never forgot Victoria upbringing
Bobby Faulds would probably have loved his comeback gig at CFB Esquimalt this Saturday. Although he’ll only be there in spirit — the Edinburgh-born entertainer died Oct.
Pointed Sticks Day!
December 19th was officially Pointed Sticks Day in East Vancouver. The release party for the band’s return album on Northern Electric, Three Lefts Make A Right was a buzz event, rockin’ the house with 2 Shows at the fabulous Rio Thea...
Nomeansno at the Royale Banquet Hall
Nomeansno at the Royale Banquet Hall April 3rd By Allan MacInnis Tom Holliston of Nomeansno is a baseball fan, so it was fortunate for him that the band’s recent Japanese tour - only their second in their 30 year history - took plac...
Album Review: The Drastics - Waiting

The Drastics are an amazing band to see live! While as a live band they usually count on improvisation to really nail the live experience, this album stands up to their live performance, if not makes it stronger. 

Interview with BLACKWOOD KINGS

Blackwood Kings are one of the newer bands to emerge from Vancouver Island's ska and reggae scene, but these boys are bringing a whole new groove to the island. Their sound is hard to pin, but something totally all their own. We got a chance to talk wi

Thousands of dollars of musical equipment stolen from Vancouver practice facility
Over 19 guitars and plenty of other musical equipment has been stolen from a number of Vancouver punk bands. “They used a crowbar and pushed through to force the door open,” said Billy Bones of Vicious Cycles, one of the bands who practiced in Gour
IN SEARCH OF THE SOURCE OF THE TALE: AN INTERVIEW WITH TUOMAS HOLOPAINEN OF NIGHTWISH
“You shouldn’t start telling a story if you don’t have a story to tell.” From his seat in the lunch room of Vancouver’s Orpheum Theatre, Tuomas Holopainen leans forward and speaks into the digital audio recorder resting on the coffee table in fr
Bison BC Tour into Europe
From Feb 26th to Mar 21st Bison BC toured Europe. They hit eleven different countries in twenty-four days and played a show every night. I’ve heard somewhere that Europeans love metal so I’m sure it was a crazy good time, and did great ...
Yvonne Blomer: the City's Poet
Yvonne was interviewed for the Sept/Oct 2015 issue of YAM magazine, where she discussed her role as Victoria’s Poet Laureate.
Start Your Weekend Off Right with Everybody Left
A review of Everybody Left's Season One (2009 - 13) compilation album.
Dichotomy/The New Values/B-Lines/Defektors
August 14, 2008 Honey Lounge I was shocked at how many people filled Honey Lounge to see the B-lines and the Defektors off on their tour of the West Coast, especially since the club is usually reserved for dancing college kids. The nig...
BISON: Locking Horns with Blades of Metal
Over a pitcher of Molson Canadian at the Princeton Pub, while a startlingly able roots-rock ensemble hosts the open stage night behind our table, we ask Bison’s vocalist-guitarist James Farwell how he feels about his band’s recent signi...
New LP "Until Tomorrow" by The Wilderness Reveals the Kingston Band’s Deeper, Darker Side
When The Wilderness took the stage at Skeleton Park Arts Festival in the summer of 2019, they were met with uproarious applause. People got up from their lawn chairs and their picnic blankets to dance and sing along in the late afternoon su...
Victoria Jazz Orchestra Honours Heart of Music Scene
Known as the heart of Vancouver's vibrant jazz scene, saxophonist and pianist Ross Taggart let a national legacy of impressive musical contributions, along with an unmatched sense of humour. On Sunday, April 15 the Victoria Jazz Orchestra and special gue
THE BICYCLES – OH NO, IT’S LOVE! Fuzzy Logic
CD REVIEW The Bicycles’ Oh No, It’s Love is not the kind of record that warrants a large, wordy review filled with pretentious journalistic nit-picking. The fact of the matter is simple: Oh No, It’s Love is filled to the rim with h...
Barbara McCaffrey at The Chapel Gallery
Barbara McCaffrey is a conceptual artist who uses fibre arts to express her ideas and experiences. She skillfully manipulates the materials at hand. Visit the webpage here: http://www.artopenings.ca/barbara-mccaffrey.html
LAUNCH PAD THEATRE CO'S 2017 - 2018 SEASON
Launch Pad is pleased to introduce our 2017 - 2018 "A Kingdom for a Stage" Season
Testing Metal with Grant Truesdell of Unleash the Archers
On the evening of the band’s record release party at The Red Room, Factory Worker Media met with Unleash the Archers guitarist Grant Truesdell in the building’s old vault to discuss challenges to songwriting, community-building, and navigating the roi
Carollyne Yardley at Deluge Gallery
Plastic is everywhere, explains Yardley in her introduction to Becoming Plastic. “It’s in the depths of the oceans and at the highest of mountaintops,” she says.
Hawaiian Bibles / Ford Pier / Bel Riose / Invasives
ANZA Club - Sat.May.24th I was in a bit of a funk as I made my way down to the ANZA club, already half-cut and looking to have my shit saved by some good ‘ol rock and roll. And with tonight’s amazing lineup, I was sure to have the ...
Randall McGinnis at Xchanges Gallery.
Xchanges Gallery Is delighted to host PHOTOTEXTRINUM by Randall McGinnis in its physical space September 4-20, 2020 Randall McGinnis at Xchanges Gallery. COVID measures are in place. The artist can welcome four visitors to the gallery...
Cadence Weapon: Afterparty Babies CD Review
Cadence Weapon Afterparty Babies Big Dada 4/5 Canada doesn't produce a whole lot of hip-hop in general, let alone the sterile mall haven of Edmonton. As such, the sophomore album from Rollie Pemberton (aka Cadence Weapon) is going to ...
Sun Wizard, Adelaide, MINTO and The Stumblers Inn
The Railway Club, May 15th, 2009 The signature choo choo train circled the ceiling of the Railway Club as Sun Wizard took the stage on May 15th. The first of four Vancouver bands, Sun Wizard warmed up the crowd in their third performanc...
It Ain’t Easy Being Subhuman
The venue shift for the Subhumans May 15th gig - from the Anza to the Ukrainian Hall (805 E. Pender) - returns the band to the scene of the famed 1979 Rock Against Prisons benefit, which also included Tunnel Canary, AKA, the female-fronted ...
Alone with Trees, Grant’s solo show at the Gage Gallery
Alone with Trees, Grant’s solo show at the Gage Gallery, presents a unique vision of BC’s coastal landscapes. Drawn in by the lush colours and flowing textures, the viewer must interpret the subtext of these surreal environments. Visu...
Album Review: Sticky Fingers - Caress Your Soul

This sounds like the clash between the end of the two-tone era with the sharp sounds of The Jam, The Clash, and the reggae influence from groups like Katchafire and 10FT Ganja Plant. The production is pretty smooth and really makes the album an above a

Thoughts of Phil Anselemo
On a laconic Friday afternoon, Absolute Underground gathered to quiz an icon - Phillip H. Anselmo. He is one of the few stars who have remained 'underground' while courting success with top-sellers Pantera and Down. Through smaller projects such as Superj
Blues king Jack de Keyzer prepares for back-to-back shows in Westport
Award-winning Canadian blues king performs the Blues at The Cove series, January 17 and 18.
Notes From JDF
Parts 1-5. An account of surfing in the Juan de Fuca (JDF) region on south Vancouver Island. No beaches are named in this book. With photos and contributions from Rivermouth Mike, James Murray, Danny Amato, and Bob Kemp, there is a special focus on the na
The Amazing Journey of a MISSA artist
How MISSA afforded an opportunity for a local artist to exhibit her work in New York and the events that flowed from it. Metchosin International Summer School of the Arts (MISSA), local artist MaryLou Wakefield, Master Printmaker Dan Welden, Southampton
Glorywhore Finds the Beauty in Sleaze.
Glorywhore is a great name, and when playing with HookerPop, it's awesome. In the first week of the New Year, I went to the Princeton to check out Glorywhore. What I got was a petite Suicide Girl, Maiwan, with her incredible scratchy growl ...
SPONTANEOUS LAYERS: ASH WILSON AND TAYLOR ROADES COLLABORATION
YAM talks to artist Ashley Wilson about her collaboration with photographer Taylor Roades.
Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles
Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles Wartime Love Song Steeped in sweet melancholy and lyrical charm, Wartime Love Song, the second album by Corbin Murdoch and the Nautical Miles, enchants its listeners with an extended-concept love so...
Two shows, one night.
Two shows, one night. By: denis maile I shouldn’t write this review. I didn’t know it was going to happen. I didn’t plan on hitting two shows, I didn’t plan on writing about my night, and I didn’t even plan on getting drunk. ...
Aztec Releases The Best Indie Rock Album Of The Year With Stitches
Aztec Releases The Best Indie Rock Album Of The Year With Stitches
Stolen Organ Family Band - ALBUM REVIEW
The Stolen Organ Family Band Horse Treats (Indie) It pays to have an open mind in this business of writing about music and putting it to press, especi...
Pete Kohut interviewed by Sheila R. Alonzo
Pete Kohut interviewed by Sheila R. Alonzo
Minto CD Review
Lay it On Me Self-distributed Waa-BOOM! With an album title ripped from frontman Ryan Hoben’s muscleman tattoos, indiefolkrocksters Minto punch it open with sludgy dirge, “New Bones” – formerly a chooglin’ alt-country number i...
GWAR – Oderus Urungus Does Not Smoke Crack Well With Others
GWAR – Oderus Urungus Does Not Smoke Crack Well With Others Oderus Urungus is not the sort of intergalactic barbarian warlord who minces his words. I spoke with the leader of GWAR recently, and between copious puffs on his crack pipe,...
Avril Lavigne Appointed to the Order of Canada
Napanee native recognized for exceptional contributions to Canada and humanity.
White Lung/Crystal Antlers/Fucked Up
White Lung/Crystal Antlers/Fucked Up @ Richard’s on Richards September 7th 2008 The sparse crowd was bewitched by the androgynous shrieking of White Lung’s Mish. As our ears would testify, there may have been no sound check and we we...
White Lung/Abe Vigoda/Vivian Girls
White Lung/Abe Vigoda/Vivian Girls Biltmore Cabaret April 29th 2009 One unassuming day last summer, I went to the Astoria to see a girl band that was on a label I really love – In The Red. They were called the Vivian Girls, and they ...
Orrie Tetoga Falesau (1988 – 2019)
Victoria hip-hop artist Orrie Falesau, known also by his stage name Orilla, has died. he was 30 years old. According to a GoFundMe page setup to support his partner and family, Falesau died in his sleep. Born in the South Pacific island nation of Tuvalu,
Gage Gallery in Bastion Square
Gage Gallery Artists Collective is MOVING to 19 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC. V8W 1H9 Gallery re-opens on June 29, 2021. Laura Feeleus and Elizabeth Carefoot present Vivid Connections, June 29 - July 18, 2021. See interviews with ...
MOTORAMA
I entered Pat's Pub on Friday March 12th in the year of our lord 2010 to experience Motorama for the first time. There were three bands in the evening and Motorama opened. When I say opened, I mean OPENED. This power trio of punk dug int...
Around Town Finding the Fun Side of Sin City
The Times Colonist attended a preview of Sin City the Improvised Serial and spoke with several cast members about the exciting Vegas 1961 setting, and the thrill of performing improvised theatre.
An Unveiling: The VIS!
We are excited to share that for a month or so our team have been secretly working on something pretty fantastic – and it’s now ready to share with you! Say hello to Sunset’s new Interactive Virtual Stage system, a game changer for local speakers, t
Karen Kaiser at Gage Gallery
http://www.artopenings.ca/karen-kaiser.html Artist in Attendance: April 20, 22, 30 and May 4 from 11:00 - 2:00 April 25 and May 9 from 12:00 - 4:00 Wonderful whimsy abounds in Karen Kaiser’s NEW WORKS. Using loose flowing brushwo...
Cannibal Corpse/The Faceless/Neuraxis/Obscura
April 10th, 2009 Cannibal Corpse/The Faceless/Neuraxis/Obscura Croatian Cultural Center By Marcell Fraser Easter Weekend: there could be no more appropriate time to witness a death metal show such as this, and the more than solid bill...
Ska Fest Memories #1

We've had plenty of awesome bands come through our festival, and here are just a few memories from some of the artists we've had come by.

A passing of the torch for Victoria's rock music history archives
Royal City Music Project co-founder Glenn Parfitt wants valuable cultural material preserved
Swank – Campfire Psalm CD Release
Friday June 6, 2008 @ the Railway Club Expectations were running high for this CD release. Swank’s epic new CD/Karaoke DVD release Campfire Psalms has been greeted with banner press all around. Punters filled the Rail early, imbibing...
Live Review: Sleep and Black Wizard
Sleep and Black Wizard, Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver February 7th 2015 While there has been much to enjoy with the spate of band reunions in recent years, (how many fans have had the renewed opportunity to witness performances by Carcas...
Ira Hoffecker presents Transitions at Fortune Gallery
Ira Hoffecker presents Transitions at Fortune Gallery
The Laundry Room at Goward House
Preview: http://www.artopenings.ca/laundry.html
Pj Kelly ~ 'Frontier' : Review by Debora Alanna
Review by Debora Alanna: Pj Kelly's current show, 'Frontier' @Polychrome Fine Arts gallery - Victoria BC
Do Tell - YAM Magazine
I was recently interviewed for the "Do Tell" section of YAM Magazine (Sept/October, Style Issue). For editing purposes, the full interview was cut short, the link provided is the full interview.
Fake Shark Real Zombie
Fake Shark Real Zombie at Biltmore Thursday October 16 I missed opener The Green Hour to attend the fundraiser at Pub 340 for the guys in The Hotel Lobbyists. A tragedy of that scope has not hit the Vancouver scene in many years and the ...
Six Degrees of Separation: A New Generation of Canadian Artists @ Claire Oliver Gallery
Six Degrees of Separation: A New Generation of Canadian Artists Curated by Noah Becker Claire Oliver Gallery 513 West 26th Street New York, NY 10001 October 14 through November 13, 2010 Over the course of the last decade, the glob...
The Jolts Interview
Who are you? Joey Blitzkrieg: Vocals and guitar Dr. Dylan Danger: Guitar Lector Kurrentz: Bass Matt Von Dander: Drums Mikey Screwdriver is our roadie, mediator and leads a double life as the Death Rider. Dwight Lightning does all ...
Things Are Getting Hairy: Bison BC prepares for Dark Ages
“We weren’t necessarily going for an animal name,” Bison BC co-guitarist/ co-vocalist James Farwell tells me when I ask about the name Bison. “We’d tossed around these Godawful made up words - ‘what looks good in a good metal fo...
Orit Shimoni Bitter is the New Sweet
With her fifth album release on April 1 and Western Canadian tour dates throughout April, Orit Shimoni’s Bitter is the New Sweet opens up an exciting new chapter in the life of one Canada’s most brilliant and lyrically impactful vocalis...
PARLOUR STEPS: Nothing Ambiguous about Determination
It always does me proud to discover a local band making quality music that's true to the landscape of this varied terrain. Rocky, cool, stormy, eclectic, thoughtful and laid back, these words only begin to describe the Parlour Steps sound. ...
Luxury Residence
Review of geode inspired work by Charine Barber seen at the Sooke Fine Art Show.
Courage and Compassion: B.C. Healthcare Heroes
B.C. Healthcare Heroes: Their Stories and Portraits One Week Only at the Gage Gallery (Feb. 15-20) Twenty portraits and twenty stories. The exhibition “B.C.’s Healthcare Heroes” showcases healthcare workers’ stories and portraits in British
Space race: Performing arts groups face dwindling venue options amid rising costs
It may have weathered the pandemic, but Victoria’s performing arts community is increasingly homeless in a city where property values continue to rise
Bel Riose
Rah Rah, Library Voices, Bel Riose & Bash Brothers The Railway Club Wednesday, February 18 2009 I’m glad I took the night off work this last Wednesday for a little Bel Riose eardrum shakeup at the Railway. In the process I discov...
Get Lucky with Tom Holliston!
I’ve always thought that someone should rhyme “Erik Estrada” with “vagina dentata” in a song, and it occurred to me, when I came late and awestruck to the solo output of songwriter and Nomeansno/Hanson Brothers guitarist Tom Holli...
LiveVan Review - Kill The Elite Tour (Kataklysm, Aborted, Archspire and Death Toll Rising at the Rickshaw Theatre)
The ‘Kill the Elite’ tour has been mercilessly trampling its way across North America, and with tonight’s show including Vancouver’s newest international extreme metal export Archspire and being headlined by Canadian legends Katakly...
Artist inpires others to deal with grief, trauma
The article talks about how I found my artist, and how letting go really does heal.
Camille Miller CD Review
Camille Miller Somewhere Near the Truth Independent Camille Miller’s voice is the centerpiece of this recording. A finely honed instrument that's passionate, soulful, and downright riveting, without being overbearing. Camille's song...
After 52 years, Doc MacLean rambles on
Acclaimed Delta blues disciple and storyteller extraordinaire plays The Cove Inn, November 14.
New "Saskadelphia" EP by The Tragically Hip
A time capsule of early nineties Hip.
SEPULTURA – 30TH Anniversary Tour (w/ Destruction, Arsis & more) Live Review and Photo Gallery
To understand the resurgent popularity of thrash metal among a new generation of fans one need look no further than Brazilian thrash stalwarts Sepultura.
The Amazing Journey of a MISSA Artist
MaryLou Wakefield, a local Victoria artist, came away with a life-altering experience last summer. It changed her perspective on what she could achieve as an artist— with courage, curiosity and the willingness to take a risk. Here is her story.
Maureen at Christmas
It was a windy and wet Thursday night at Habit Coffee & Culture on Yates Street at the Atrium in downtown Victoria when we spoke with the lovely Maureen Washington – Jazz singer, mom of five, vocal coach, and mentor.
Album of the Month: July, 2013

Each month we pick one record to hold the title of "Album of the Month." This month we take a look at Early Reggae by The Revivers.

Illuminations: Songs Towards the Light
Review of Ensemble Laude's Winter concert, 2014.
BISON HAVE HORNS
For those unknowing, Bison are Vancouver’s currently-reigning champions of The Riff, trafficking in mercilessly heavy, sludgy, and addictive sonic terror. Think discarded beer cans peppered with shotgun holes, full-size back-patches, pall...
Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas at Madrona Gallery
http://www.artopenings.ca/yahgulanaas.html Summary: Over the past two decades, his artworks have toured the world in solo shows, and been collected by major international museums and galleries.
At 90, Jerry Bryant's not feeling blue
Jerry Bryant celebration concert with the Island Big Band
Langford Musician Shares Legendary Link
Retired music teacher played in 1970s rock band Troyka
"For Darcy" Fundraiser Concert hopes to raise money for local family & research towards multiple sclerosis
Lowest of the Low headline this fundraising concert, September 3 at The Creekside just north of Kingston.
Absolute Underground #85 - XXX-MAS Issue!
Oceanside85 has a new Darksynth album out Absolution and in here to spread the synth gospel to the masses
Local musicians join 'Music Across the Border' to benefit the United Way
If you’re from Kingston (or anywhere in Ontario, really) and you’re a music fan (or even if you aren’t), chances are you have heard of the two local musicians who will be featured in tomorrow night’s international telethon in suppor...
Studio Robazzo Re-Thinks Modern Design
"Whether they're designing visual identities, wooden coasters or stage sets, Studio Robazzo's eco-design approach is about changing our perceptions of what's possible."
Victoria`s Filming Boom Benefits Locals
Times Colonist interviews Kirsten Van Ritzen about her acting roles in television movies filmed in Victoria in 2015.
The Wilderness opens Evergreen Recording Co.
Kingston band turns old farmhouse into modern recording studio just north of the city.
ENGLISH MOTETS
ENGLISH MOTETS The Gesualdo Six / Owain Park · Hyperion CDA68256 The Gesualdo Six hardly need a review of this their debut CD: within days of its release around Easter it was top of the iTunes classical chart. The CD is a collection of E...
Art House
The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria welcomes Nuu-chah-nulth artists to Family Sunday; a buoyant community day with hands-on activities for learning about art, place and home.
Artists making more from merch sales is music to rapper Cadence Weapon's ears
Merchandise sales are essential for touring artists, and a new program will give them a bigger slice of the pie.
The Rebel Spell and the Subhumans- Political Punks Unite for a Cause
When I last interviewed Vancouver punks the Rebel Spell, I was surprised to discover that, long before the band had formed, their singer and principal lyricist Todd Serious knew the Subhumans’ Gerry Hannah. Stepha and Todd were living in ...
The Castaways host Benefit
The Castaways host a Benefit Concert to raise money for the Grant Road Manor fire victims. It was a great success, they raised close to $800.00.
Union Club President's Ball
Dear Kim I personally wanted to thank you and the troupe for such a fine fine evening on Saturday. Grace and I have had nothing but rave reviews about everything including how much everyone really enjoyed the dancing. The snake routine in the library was
Scatterheart: Redefining the Rainbow
There aren’t a lot of modern rock bands running around spouting an ethos of love, harmony and goodwill toward one other. In a market where the gloomy, aggressive or just plain aloof is king, you wouldn't think these kinds of happy cuddly ...
LAL bring their Spectacular Tour and workshop to Kingston
The Toronto-based, Bengali-Bajan duo have been holding down Canada’s underground DIY music scene for decades.
PHOTO GALLERY: WACKEN METAL BATTLE, VANCOUVER – FINAL ROUND
Top-notch performances from all five bands at the Rickshaw Theatre for the final BC round of Wacken Metal Battle 2015 on Friday. The winners of Vancouver’s first four qualifying rounds (Bushwhacker, Unbeheld, Medevil, and Resurgence) performed along wit
The Wrecktals – Speaking their mind from time to time.
The Wrecktals – Speaking their mind from time to time. An interview with bassist Christoph Leon by Denis Maile of The Skinny DM: How did you come up with the band name? CL: As a reminder to never take ourselves too seriously, re...
Focus by Brad Nugent March 1967
Focus by Brad NugentBrad Nugent
Skeleton Park Arts Festival announces 2024 lineup
Kobo Town, Status Non Status and Kington's Sadaf Amini among artists to perform for festival's 19th year.
Press reviews
Bluegrass fans were treated to a lively and fun evening Friday night, Nov. 4, at Char's Landing. Bluegrass Fever tore through an eclectic repertoire, consisting of traditional American tunes like Sweet Sally Brown and Fly Around My Prett...
The Tragically Hip Unveil Anthology 'This Is Our Life'
A deluxe, hand-crafted book-and-record box set edition will be available through Genesis Publications, limited to 1,000 copies
Tim Hicks announces Kingston concert date
Country star brings his Campfire Troubadour Tour to the Isabel on November 16.
Members
Lance Gooderham Ian Gibson David Harris Doug Cunliffe
Interview with Marcus Geard and Glen Pine of THE SLACKERS

This interview also appears in issue #51 of Absolute Underground.

New York’s The Slackers have been combining ska, dub, reggae, and rock n’ roll for over 20 years. The Hellcat Re

The Wilderness make strange on new single
Chris Koster pitches in on production of. "Strangers I Used To Love," out January 31
Mike Kammerer returns to Fortune Gallery until Feb 11, 2022.
Preview: https://www.focusonvictoria.ca/palette/173/
Joey Chaos and The Ghosts Release Single
Joey Chaos and The Ghosts have released their new single, “Fear.” The first in a series of recordings to be released in the coming months, the song is gritty and compelling. A mixture of 90s rock n’ roll and 80s new wave, their brand ...
Go Ghetto/Bike/Scatterheart/H.B @ The Railway, Saturday July 5th
Yowza! Saturday night was a melting pot of birthdays, friends, and 4 of Vancouver’s finest bands all under one small jam-packed roof. Getting over the ridiculous layout of The Railway takes some time getting used to if you’re not a regu...
BLACK MOUNTAIN CD Review
BLACK MOUNTAIN In The Future Jagjaguwar When I hear Stephen McBean’s slowly-picked A-minor guitar intro for “Stormy High,” I’m almost tricked into thinking it’s a cover of “Hell’s Bells,” but then the swing-time Black...
Paris is What Women Want
Photo of Andy Telfer singing to an audience member
Interview with Dusty from the Hits
We have lots to talk about because The Hits have been one busy band. First off, can you introduce yourself and the band and their instruments. Why no bass? Alright, well, I am Dusty and I hit stuff really hard and sing a bit, Lou Slips...
Interview with Chris Demakes of LESS THAN JAKE

For people who don’t know much about your band, you were on a major label for a while, Capitol Records, right?&a&l

Last Plague / Hezzakya / Simian Rue
Royal Unicorn Cabaret April 25th, 2008 A pointless evening, overall; I came for Black Betty – Black Betty did not come! Ana was sick. They were replaced by the comparable, admirable Hezzakya, with huge double-stacks of amps-amps-amps ...
How I unearthed a long-lost Toronto prog rock album
Martin Springett's The Gardening Club is cosmic Canadiana at its best, and his story is a CanCon prog rock version of the Searching For Sugar Man saga
Saanich elementary students draw attention to local ecosystem with art
Grade 4/5 students attending McKenzie Elementary produce poems and pictures for Swan Creek bridge
Angela Verbrugge: The Night We Couldn’t Say Goodnight (Gut String) A review of the debut album from the Canadian vocalist
Angela Verbrugge: The Night We Couldn’t Say Goodnight (Gut String) A review of the debut album from the Canadian vocalist
Album Review: The Beatdown - Walkin' Proud
The Beatdown Walkin' Proud CD - LP Stomp Records - STMP099   The Beatdown have become masters of their craft! Their 2010 debut album saw the group carry on the work put down with One Night Band and carried into into garage rock terri...
The Upsidedown / The Dandy Warhols
Dick's On Dicks, Wed.June.18th With the 2008 Vancouver International Jazz Fest getting under way, the illustrious Commodore Ballroom is pretty well taken for a month or so solid at this time every year. As such, I was not so much surpris...
They Might Be Giants: Wynn Gogol writes book on songwriting
Wynn Gogol has been involved in enough recording sessions over the years to know what works in a studio setting and what gets in the way of musical momentum.
Interview with Heads Hang Heavy
Interview with HHH was done in June, 2012 by D'Arcy Briggs Ska Fest: When and where do you guys meet? When did you decide to form the band? HHH: We all met through playing in other projects together. For example, our drummer, Pher, and Ch...
How to Gather Family Stories
My great grandmother was a school teacher. She raised five children in small town Alberta. When she reached the point of near exhaustion, she would grab a book and a blanket. Then she’d tell her husband she needed a break and she’d disa...
VFF Review: Apology
The Apology follows the story of three women who were taken into sexual slavery during the Japanese Invasion throughout Asia in WWII by the Imperial Army
(Album Review) Angela Verbrugge: The Night We Couldn’t Say Good Night
"This is a stunning debut album for Angela Verbrugge. Simply stunning!", Toronto Music Report writer Raul da Gama raves.
The 21-month battle to save Lucky Bar, one of Victoria's best-loved live music venues
Lucky Bar owner Dylan Pitcher was on the phone from inside his Yates Street nightclub Tuesday, chatting while he rapidly ticked the final items off his “maybe one day” list of renovations. Replace baseboards? Check. Install new oak tabletops? Check
Valley unveils recent releases during North American tour
Valley brought their ‘Water the Flowers, Pray for a Garden’ tour to The Ale House on November 7
Beck
Perhaps more so than any other artist of his generation, Beck is a master of mutation, reinventing himself with each tour and album. Recent Beck tours have featured lavish, gimmicky stage shows, including life-size marionettes and kitchen t...
Red Hot Lovers – s/t
The Red Hot Lovers had their cd release party and last show ever on the same night. Talk about rock stars. I would be worried about doing that based on the fact that you might end up with a box of cds in your closet. Hopefully this doesn’...
Focus February 1967
Focus by Brad Nugent
Margo Cooper and Elizabeth Carefoot at Gage Gallery
A lively Spring tonic awaits visitors to the Gage Gallery in early April 2021. Margo Cooper and Elizabeth Carefoot present a vibrant series of abstractions titled Eccentric Deliberations. The artwork of this talented duo is eccentric in the best possible
Bad Fortune brings Kingston music lovers great fortune
New indie folk duo release debut single, Muscle Memory.
Video keeps levidrome front of mind
Video by Lola Parks keeps levidrome front of mind. Victoria boy's word continues to gain momentum online. Lucky Budd, father of Levi Budd, campaigns to get "levidrome" in the dictionary.
How did D'Arcy ska?

In the "How did blank ska?" feature, we'll get into just how our organizing team got into ska and reggae music. This first edition features our merchandise coordinator, D'Arcy Briggs

Gord Downie rejected offer to become a hologram in his final years, bandmates say
Gord Downie wasn’t interested in ever becoming a hologram musician.
Fired Up! Annual Show and Sale May 28-29, 2022
Preview: http://www.artopenings.ca/fired-up-2022.html
Fleshgod Apocalypse, Krisiun and Kataklysm, 13th January 2014 The Underworld
With the Christmas and New Year festivities well and truly over it’s time to shake off the January blues and for our first gig of the year we are once again heading off to The Underworld in Camden. On tonight’s bill there are death metal acts from thr
The Pack AD / Cadaver Dogs / The TVees / Valerie Graham
The Pack AD / Cadaver Dogs / The TVees / Valerie Graham ANZA Club June 20th, 2008 Dave Bertrand So we swagger in with our free stamps and I'm feelin' good – old friends in the house, old friends at the bar, fist of beer; I enjoy the...
ELDORADO Suitcase
Redcat Records Some say country-rock died with Gram Parsons premature passing in 1973, casual fans say it’s when the Eagles sold-out and recorded Hotel California, but almost everyone can agree that just as quickly as it came – it w...
Album Review: 10ft Ganja Plant - Shake up the Place
10 Ft. Ganja Plant Have already earned the reputation for making some of today's best reggae beats as well as having stellar production, and this album carries on that tradition.
Review: Canadian Guitarist West Coast Comerford happy to play blues
A story on west coast Canadian blues guitar man, West Coast Comerford. Comerford has played in many blues bands out of Victoria, including the Rockin' Devils, All Them Blues Band and Uncle Wiggly's Hot Shoes Blues Band. The piece was published on Digita
Denise Tierney at the Chapel Gallery May 6-15.
Preview: http://www.artopenings.ca/denise-tierney.html Denise Tierney at the Chapel Gallery May 6-15.
Rain or shine, Kingston’s Skeleton Park Arts Festival was a roaring success
JUNO Award-winning band, Kobo Town makes a return to Kingston
Starlight Pops presents "What's Love Got To Do With It?"
Join Starlight Pops Choir for their spring concert featuring the music of Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Jackson 5, Otis Redding, The Pointer Sisters and more. Also featuring the Starlight Pops Combo.
Unknown Soldiers (Doors Tribute)
When the band hit the stage I had to catch my breath. The resemblance between Pete Bowman and Jim Morrison is rather scary. It isn’t only visual, but vocal! You could really believe you were at a Doors gig. Bowman is a rare performer, he ...
Vancougar - “Canadian Tuxedo” CD/LP release party
w/ The Tranzmitors / Master Apes / Los Tycoons The Biltmore Cabaret July 11th, 2008 Mmmm! The Biltmore, with its refurbished red booths, red lights, cavernous mystery – once the most depressing waste of space in Mt. Pleasant, it is...
Trish Shwart at arc.hive September 14-29, 2024
After three years and completing the paintings, she realized: “ I was documenting my grief over the current unfolding environmental disaster.
In the House with CADENCE WEAPON (and his Fridge Full of Condiments)
I'm a white rocker, born of Abbotsford. All through high school I associated rap music with delinquents farting bass out of Honda Civics and punching people. But time passed, and at SXSW in Austin this past March, I stumble upon the Canadia...
“Fergot Mu' Biscuits:” On the Deathstar Tour with The Pack A.D. (Part One!)
These gals...crazy. Vancouver to Toronto for a single gig. Fly home. Immediately pack the tour van. Cross the border at night. Drive 15 hours to a poorly attended Monday night show in Denver. Who does that? The Pack A.D., mofo, that's who....
Jazz Sextet Continues To Groove
She’s been at it for 35 years, but Toni Blodgett’s love of jazz continues to fuel her band’s unique blend of what she calls “more traditional” music. What it really means is her group has access to a vast repertoire of jazz tunes and has develo
Anion Tape Review
Find someone who thinks tapes aren’t cool and I’ll shove my Sony Walkman up his bum. Tapes are still rad and this Anion tape is no different. It’s red in colour and resembling the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles soundtrack cassette tape ...
Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra charm hometown crowd
Victoria’s Tequila Mockingbird Orchestra recently played Upstairs Cabaret here in their hometown of Victoria with locals Compassion Gorilla and Carousels opening up. There was a strong sense of community and no shortage of dancing at the ...
MUSIC WASTE 2008:
Pub 340 - June 5th, 2008 MUSIC WASTE 2008: The B-Lines / Dead Ghosts / Get Well Bomb / The TVees Pub 340 - June 5th, 2008 Dave Bertrand For the first time in many moons, I really made the effort to make it out on time for the openi...
Interview with Rocky Mountain Rebel Music
Interview with RMRM done in October, 2012 by D'Arcy Briggs Ska Fest: So first off, RMRM have become known as one of the region's best ska, reggae, and party bands. What were some of the original ideas behind the group and how would yo...
The Legendary Downchild Blues Band announce The Longest 50th Anniversary Tour
Grand OnStage presents the acclaimed, JUNO Award-winning band at Kingston Grand Theatre November 10
Rough It Up by One Drop
Sadly, this is One Drop’s final album. There’s worse news, too. One Drop has kicked the can for the last time. Yeah, the band has disbanded after a six year experience. Hopefully they’ll get back together sooner or later, as this five...
The Bronx/ A Textbook Tragedy/ Battle Snakes @ Richard’s on Richards
The Bronx/ A Textbook Tragedy/ Battle Snakes @ Richard’s on Richards April 1st 09 By: Denis Maile My night began with me trying to scalp my ticket out front of Richard’s. I had only just found out that day that I would be on the g...
Still Blue Reveiw
Bill Johnson has made a fantastic release that we highly recommend.
Samantha Dickie at the Victoria Arts Council Gallery.
Samantha Dickie presents A Moment in Time September 10 - October 31, 2021 Victoria Arts Council Gallery, 1800 Store Street, Victoria. BC. V8T 4R4 Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 12:00-5:00 Artist Talk: Sunday, October 17 @ 3PM, VAC Gall...
JP Maurice on CBC Music
BIOGRAPHICAL INFO A pro boxer will tell you that success in the ring hinges on the belief in your own abilities. Belief which endures a pounding heart or a weakened knee. Belief in oneself even after being knocked down to the canvas o...
“The ultimate mixing of business with pleasure.” Whitehorse going strong after more than a decade on the road.
The genre-jumping duo prepares to tour their “most country album” with a stop in Kingston June 2, 2023
Joshua Watts at the Victoria Arts Council Sept 9 - Oct 30.
Joshua Watts at the Victoria Arts Council Sept 9 - Oct 30. Review: http://www.artopenings.ca/joshua-watts.html
16 years in, The Strumbellas keep on believing
A quick Q&A with the JUNO-winning band ahead of their sold out show in Kingston on February 23.
Behind The Canvas: Michael Abraham
From http://artperspective.org Our profile series 'Behind the Canvas' this week with Canadian artist, Michael Abraham. We have been following Michael's work for more than a decade and he continues to evolve, playing with scale, texture and expanding fro
Arts group challenges community to get creative
Reports on Challenge Crisis with Creativity community art project created by Gage Gallery to help people during Covid 19
The Tragically Hip Named 2024 Record Store Day Canada Ambassadors
Live recording of Kingston band’s 1993 show at CBGB's available for the first time on vinyl and cassette format on record store day, April 20
Jon and Roy at Sugar Nightclub
Zoubi Arros heads up Zoubi And The Sea, which balances folk, funk, jazz, and pop, along with a healthy dose of sexy during their incredible cover of Queens of the Stone Age’s Make It Wit Chu.
Jo-Anne Silverman at Gage Gallery, 19 Bastion Square
Jo-Anne Silverman at Gage Gallery, 19 Bastion Square NEW LOCATION - 19 Bastion Square July 20 - August 8, 2021 http://www.artopenings.ca/joanne-silverman-21.html

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Alternative Blues-Punk from Victoria BC
Adrian Chmil "Adream"
Head-turning ringer who loves dramatic music from Victoria BC
Niels Petersen Band
from Victoria BC
Niels Petersen
from Victoria BC
West Coast REACH Association
Utilizing music & the other performing arts for social good
722 Cormorant St. Victoria BC
Open / Operational
Thursday Night Jam at The Loft
Cancelled - no jam. Drummer's head wouldn't fit through the ...
229 Gorge Road East Victoria BC
Closed / Inactive
First Metropolitan United Fellowship Hall
Large hall in the First Metropolitan Church Building.
Open / Operational
Club Alhambra
Photo credit Niels Petersen Located in the Bedford Regency ...
Closed / Inactive

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