Reviews

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The British Columbians

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Eccodek

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Jane's Party

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Knotted Cord

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MAZ

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Meeko Cheech

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Metal Mother

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The Nix Dicksons

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NN

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The Pointillists

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Pomegranate

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Ramune

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Rhoneil

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Vesely Couture

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Young Galaxy

!earshot's print and web features


February 2012

Josh Hyslop Josh Hyslop: A Cold Wind
Don’t let the title fool you. With one of the warmest voices around, Joshua Hyslop will invite you to slow down and listen. By Shelley Gummeson

MythsMyths of Vancouver
Vancouver's MYTHS create scary soundscapse of fantasy, light and sound. Techno-witch-rave, you might say. By Scott Wood

January 2012

The Best of 2011
The Pack A.D. By The Pack A.D.
By Romi Mayes
By Jason Raso
!earshot chart toppers The Pack A.D., roots artist Romi Mayes and jazz bassist Jason Raso offer up thier picks for the best of 2011.

By Marc 'Oxide' LaCasse
By Chris Hibbard
We also get !earshot writers and radio programmers to to weigh in on the best of 2011 as well.

Gordie Johnson of Big Sugar. Photos by Kandiss Bradley Book Review: Retromania
Pop Will Eat Itself: Is Pop Culture just going around in circles? Writer Simon Reynolds looks at a pop culture that increasingly feeds off its past. By Dan McPeake

PhiloceraptorPhiloceraptor Attacks
Philoceraptor are invading the Vancouver music scene with the dedication of a missionary. By Scott Wood

December 2011

The Best of 2011
The Pack A.D. By The Pack A.D.
By Romi Mayes
By Jason Raso
!earshot chart toppers The Pack A.D., roots artist Romi Mayes and jazz bassist Jason Raso offer up thier picks for the best of 2011.

Gordie Johnson of Big Sugar. Photos by Kandiss Bradley Big Sugar: How Sweet It Is
Big Sugar hits the road with a new batch of songs and a will to rock. By Shelley Gummeson

MGMTMGMT: The bigtime is calling
Success was already in the cards for MGMT when they sat down with Scott Wood

Barb Wire Dolls 13 Lucky Songs
We begin our look back at the Best of 2011 with a playlist of 13 tracks that start with Celtic and end up at death metal. By Andy Gronberg

November 2011

The TwelvesThe Twelves: Having It Both Ways
Brazil's The Twelves switched from guitars to turntables but that doesn't mean they can't rock out. By Scott Wood

Romi Mayes Romi Mayes: Unscripted
With her new album Lucky Tonight Romi Mayes digs deep and reveals her rock roots. By Shelley Gummeson

October 2011

Hyacca -  Next Music From Tokyo Next Music From Tokyo
One man's passion is a boon for adventurous music fans as the Next Music From Tokyo tour brings Japan's underground to Canada. By Magnus Thyvold

Ohbijou Ohbijou and the City
Ohbijou's Casey Mecija is worried about her city but, hopefull about the future. Metal Meets paves the way. ByScott Thomson

Scotland's Paolo Nutini Paolo Nutini: When Words Don't Work, The Music Steps In
This Reporter Finds That Braving The Thick Scottish Accent of Paolo Nutini Is Well Worth It! By Scott Wood

Outer Bridge Ensemble at the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival What a Strange Trip: Saskatchewan Jazz Festival
A great line-up, a casual atmosphere and strong performances make for a great time. By Jim Dupuis

September 2011

Austra Austra: Feel Her Break
10 Questions with Katie Stelmanis, the woman behind 2011 Polaris Prize nominee Austra. By Scott Wood

Leslie Alexander The Word's the Thing : The Leslie Alexander Interview
Leslie Alexander is on the road with her buddy Jenny Allen and riding high in the strength of her latest album, Nobody's Baby. By Jim Dupuis

Jason Raso The Jazz Head and Funk Heart of Jason Raso
Jason Raso embraces his jazz leanings and begins a new musical chapter with The Red Arrow. By Shelley Gummeson

Who should win? 2011 Polaris Prize: Who should win?
!earshot's got some ideas about who should win the Polaris Prize this year and who shouldn't. What about you? By Anne-Marie Brugger

August 2011

Leslie Alexander The Word's the Thing : The Leslie Alexander Interview
Leslie Alexander is on the road with her buddy Jenny Allen and riding high in the strength of her latest album, Nobody's Baby. By Jim Dupuis

Jason Raso The Jazz Head and Funk Heart of Jason Raso
Jason Raso embraces his jazz leanings and begins a new musical chapter with The Red Arrow. By Shelley Gummeson

Switchfoot Switchfoot: Hearts on Their Sleeves
Tim Foreman Discusses Charting New Territory and The Questions We All Have. By Scott Wood

Milo Aukerman of The Descendents at Yonge & Dundas square North By Northeast: A Field Guide
650 bands and 40 films is a big deal. Scott does his best to check it out even if he could have stopped at the Descendents and been happy. By Scott Thomson

Polaris Music Prize Who Deserves to Make the Polaris Shortlist?
Now updated with the new short list. The Polaris Long List of 40 will soon get cut to 10. Who should make the cut? By Aaron Levy and Anne-Marie Brugger

Chad VanGaalen (photo: Jeff Thornburn) Chad VanGaalen Can't Get Enough
With a new record, film and musical side projects and a new found love of the Rolling Stones, Chad VanGaalen is on the move... By Matthew Ritchie

July 2011

Milo Aukerman of The Descendents at Yonge & Dundas square North By Northeast: A Field Guide
650 bands and 40 films is a big deal. Scott does his best to check it out even if he could have stopped at the Descendents and been happy. By Scott Thomson

Matt Costa Matt Costa: Making the Dark Side Sound Just A Little Bit More Cheerful
Matt Costa Counts the Rats in The Alley Behind The Commodore Ballroom. By Scott Wood

The Wailin' Jennys The Wailin' Jennys or (Folk Vixens?)
The Wailin' Jennys have raised their voices and creativity to capture some celestial enchantment with their new album Bright Morning Stars, By Shelley Gummeson

Polaris Music Prize Who Deserves to Make the Polaris Shortlist?
Now updated with the new short list. The Polaris Long List of 40 will soon get cut to 10. Who should make the cut? By Aaron Levy and Anne-Marie Brugger

Chad VanGaalen (photo: Jeff Thornburn) Chad VanGaalen Can't Get Enough
With a new record, film and musical side projects and a new found love of the Rolling Stones, Chad VanGaalen is on the move... By Matthew Ritchie

June 2011

Bruce Cockburn Bruce Cockburn's Restless Spirit
Bruce Cockburn continues to make tradition as he releases his 31st album Small Source of Comfort. By Shelley Gummeson

Okkervil River The Words and Music of Okkervil River
Will Sheff on writing, composing, dreaming and stealing. By Scott Thomson

The Faint No Dessert for the The Faint
The guys from The Faint are Best Buds with Conor Oberst aka Bright Eyes, have gossiped with a star of TV's C.S.I., but really admire UK electropop act Ladytron. By Scott Wood

The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year.

May 2011

Chad VanGaalen (photo: Jeff Thornburn) Chad VanGaalen Can't Get Enough
With a new record, film and musical side projects and a new found love of the Rolling Stones, Chad VanGaalen is on the move... By Matthew Ritchie

Block Party Bloc Party: So Here We Are
Who Would Believe That These World Famous Indie Rockers Are All Shy Guys? By Scott Wood

Ryan Guldemond of Mother Mother The Brother in Mother Mother
Eureka reveals more layers and more depth and serves as Ryan Guldemond's Coming Out Party. By Aaron Levy and Brad Van Haastregt

My Son the Hurricane Level 3 Storm Warning
My Son the Hurricane releases their biggest storm yet with You Can't Do This. By Shelley Gummeson

The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year.

April 2011

Ryan Guldemond of Mother Mother The Brother in Mother Mother
Eureka reveals more layers and more depth and serves as Ryan Guldemond's coming out party By Aaron Levy and Brad Van Haastregt

ShundaK ShundaK is Still Yo Majesty
Expressing herself with renewed focus, fierceness, and faith, ShundaK is ready to rock the mic like never before. By Shelley Gummeson

Tambura Rasa Tambura Rasa: On The Wild 'Silk Road,'
Ivan Tucakov Has Traveled the World Looking For Different Styles of Music, But Vancouver Was the Right Place for This Band to Fit It All Together. By Scott Wood

Marissa Paternoster of Screaming Females Shreddin' at South by Southwest
SXSW is the place to be to see just about everything important happening in music this year. By Kat Dornian

April 16 is Record Store Day
Tune in to CJSW 90.9FM Calgary on April 15 and 16 for special coverage. Listen online at http://www.cjsw.com

The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year.

March 2011

The Boombox Saints Bustin' Outa the Box with the Boombox Saints
The Boombox Saints have infused the slow burn of soul into their hip hop roots on their new EP - Bringin' The Boom Back: Based on a True Story. By Shelley Gummeson

Lykke Li Waking Up Lykke Li
Scott Wood Catches This Swedish Indie Superstar Napping Backstage (before She Was Famous)

The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year.

February 2011

Tokyo Police Club Enter The Secret Brotherhood of Tokyo Police Club
Intimacy, Battle Scars, Chatting Up Females and the Inevitable Backlash. By Scott Wood

Mastodon Krystle Dos Santos - Femme Fatale
Krystle Dos Santos leaps back to the future with an ambitious new project called Fame Fatale. By Shelley Gummeson

Allison Brown Dr. Pinkham's Medicine Show
Allison Brown and friends take their Medicine Show on the road for a heaking dose of old-time folk, gospel and country. By Steve Marlow

Kill City Kill City - One More Time
The Stooges Iggy Pop and James Williamson reunited at the height of punk in 1977 to make Kill City. Now Williamson is making it better. By Scott Thomson

The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year

January 2011

Kill City Kill City - One More Time
The Stooges Iggy Pop and James Williamson reunited at the height of punk in 1977 to make Kill City. Now Williamson is making it better. By Scott Thomson

Mastodon Mastodon: Shaking Hands With the Great Shambling Beast
Drinking, Star Wars, Superfans and Metal Gods Metallica. Mastodon's Bill Kelliher talks to Scott Wood

Picks and Pans The Best of 2010
!earshot's writers and radio hosts from across Canada of offer up some of the best of the the year

December 2010

The Black Lips 10 Minutes with the Black Lips
Scott Wood Takes a Second Bite at the Proverbial Apple. By Scott Wood

Frank Turner In the fast lane with Frank Turner
Two records and opening slots with Green Day and Social Distortion. It hasn't been a bad year for the English singer. By Scott Thomson

The Flatliners The Flatliners Grow Up
Richmond Hill's The Flatliner's keep on moving up and onward. By Scott Thomson

Social Distortion Just like 17 Again: Social Distortion Live
Social Distortion w/ Frank Turner and Lucero at the Kool Haus in Toronto, Oct 23 By Scott Thompson

November 2010

Little Dragon Little Dragon: Meeting the Gentle Beast
Little Dragon Talk About Swedish Metal Bands, Pitchfork and Evolutionary Psychology. By Scott Wood

Sandro Dominelli Setting the Groove with Sandro Dominelli
Sandro Dominelli parlays the rhythm and flavor of the streets into an award winning album called The Alvo Sessions. By Shelley Gummeson

Ernesto Cervini How Many Drummers Does it Take...? The Ernesto Cervini Interview
Leading from the back. Drummer Ernesto Cervini comes out from behind the kit... a lot.. By Dustin Ellis

Against Me! Against Me! Against the World!
Watching every move with Tom Gabel of punk rockers Against Me! By Scott Thomson

October 2010

King Khan Midnight In The Church of King Khan
Scott Wood invades the chaos that is King Khan and His Sensational Shrines!

Karkwa Karkwa Takes the Prize
Sept 20, 2010: Karkwa's Les Chemins De Vere wins the 2010 Polaris Music Prize. Featuring new photos. By Scott Thomson

Holy Fuck Holy Fuck! a chat with Graham Walsh
Holy Fuck hits the road with a new expanded lineup. By Dustin Ellis

Efterklang The Sturm Und Drang of EFTERKLANG
These Danish wizards of the Cut-and-Paste Iivite you to get lost in the landscapes of their music. By Scott Wood

September 2010

Karkwa Karkwa Takes the Prize
Sept 20, 2010: Karkwa's Les Chemins De Vere wins the 2010 Polaris Music Prize. By Scott Thomson

Women Taking Music Back
Calgary's Women Exercise their Independence. By Aaron Levy

Frazey Ford The Soulful Side of Frazey Ford
The Be Good Tanya's Frazey Ford reconnects with two of her great musical loves - old time folk and soul music with her debut solo album Obadiah.. By Shelley Gummeson

The Gaslight Anthem Up from the Basement with The Gaslight Anthem
Success hasn't spoiled the punk cred of The Gaslight Anthem yet. By Scott Thomson

August 2010

Calvin Harris 10 Minutes in the Shitter with Calvin Harris
UK DJ Calvin Harris gets cornered in the men's room by !earshot's Scott Wood and gives up the goods on Kylie Minogue, Dizee Rascal, Cathy Dennis and the Spice Girls. By Scott Wood

July 2010

Polaris Prize Shortlist Announced
Some previous winners, some Quebecois artsits and some new faces grace this years Shortlist

Brian King of Japandroids A Field Guide to North by North-east
Three nights, a hell of a lot bands and too many hipster mustaches push our writer to the edge. By Scott Thomson

The Horrors The Secret Horror of The Horrors
Scott Wood invades The Horrors' dressing room for an interview, gets an invitation to go thru their Dirty Laundry - And this is what he found! By Scott Wood

Mary Kastle The Mary Kastle Interview
After two EPs, jazz pianist Mary Kastle is ready for the big time with a jazz and pop flavoured full-length debut. By Jim Dupuis

 

June 2010

Caribou Great Northern Caribou Learns To Swim
Dan Snaith finds musical epiphany while mastering front crawl. By Ane-Marie Brugger

Gallows Gallows: The UK's Unstoppable Punk Upstarts
Scott Wood talks with "Daddy Gallows" himself, Laurent Barnard, and he reveals when not to listen to the great Kate Bush. By Scott Wood

Adam Thomas w/ the Mike Turner Quartet The Adam Robert Thomas Interview
Adam Thomas, one of Vancouvers busiest musicians, has a new CD out just in time for the Jazz Festival season. By Jim Dupuis

Son of the Hurricane The Eye of the Hurricane
They say size doesn’t matter, but it does with My Son The Hurricane. By Shelley Gummeson

May 2010

Kinnie Starr The New Pornographers: An interview with Carl Newman
Everyone, even Dan Behar , is joining Carl Newman on the road with the New Pornographers this summer By Scott Thomson

Bat for Lashes Bat For Lashes: Somewhere Between Myth and Legend
Natasha Khan went to New York to find the myth and found an unexpected alter ego. By Scott Wood.

April 2010

You Say Party! We Say Die! Drummer Dies Suddenly
YSP!WSD! drummer Devon Clifford passed away on Sunday, April 18th after collasing on stage two days ealier at a show at the Rickshaw Theatre in the band's hometown of Vancouver. The cause of death has been reported as a massive brain hemmorage caused by congenital defects. Emergency surgury was unable to save his life. Devon was 30 years old. See the report in the Vancouver Sun for more details.

Daniel, Fred and Julie Old and New with Daniel, Fred and Julie
Daniel, Fred and Julie took an old songbook, added some new, yet traditional music and created a little bit of un expected magic. By Scott Thomson

Kinnie Starr From Jet Back to Albino White: Gentleman Reg
Gentleman Reg and Scott are both crossing thier fingers for Courtney Love's musical redemption. By Scott Wood

Frank Turner The Elizabeth Shepherd Interview
Elizabeth Shepherd did it all - producer, composer, arranger, pianist and singer - when recording her new album Heavy Falls the Night. By Jim Dupuis

Elizabeth Shepherd Living In Harmony with Company B
Old school is new again as sextet breathes new energy into the 40's ear stylings of the Andrews Sisters. By Shelley Gummeson

Everything is coming up Frank Turner.
English punk-turned-folkie Frank Turner didn't trade in his punk attitude when he took up the acoutic guitar. By Scott Thomson

March 2010

Kinnie Starr Starr Power
Kinnie Starr continues to challenge herself as an artist with the release her 5th album A Different Day - and she has a special challenge for all of us. By Shelley Gummeson

Frank Turner Everything is coming up Frank Turner.
English punk-turned-folkie Frank Turner didn't trade in his punk attitude when he took up the acoutic guitar. By Scott Thomson

DJ Tiga Dj Tiga: Canada's Most Sophisticated Superstar
The DJ just wants to rock. By Scott Wood

Playlist for 2009 - Lo-fi Countdowns/ Pseudo-Scary Animal Names by Bruno Mazzotta

2009 in Review

Another great year in music has come and gone, Time to take a look back, take stock, remember the good, try to get past the over-rated, highlight some over-looked gems. But first we have some playlists the capture the year in music (from a personal viewpoint)...

Best of 2009 Playlists


Lo-fi Countdowns/Pseudo-Scary Animal Names
By Bruno Mazzotta
The Shit that Hit in 2009
By Andrea-Jane Cornell
Grandfathers In The Ground/ Locket Full of Losing/ Inter-provincial Pen Pals
By Tara-Michelle Ziniuk
Vibe Line
By Prymtym

Picks and Pans 2009


Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more.Here some hosts from across the country weigh in.

Jazz on the Rocks
The Kitchen Sink
Jazz Notes
Pirates of the Carribean
sHIFT Radio
Scott Thomson


Top 200 of 2009

February 2010

John K. Samson John K. Samson Strikes Out on his Own
The Weakerthans frontman is stepping out with a new solo release - the first in 10 years. By Scott Thomson

Brandi DisterheftAnother Side of Brandi Disterheft
Young Canadian bassist walks in the shadows of giants with a new New York anthology. By Jim Dupuis

Ali MilnerAli Milner — Courting the Flame of Success
With a hot new album, BC's Ali Milner is ready to win over fans with her golden voice and warm spirit. By Shelley Gummeson

Secret Mommy Who Is Secret Mommy?
Andy Dixon Is Out There, Somewhere, Hunting For Sounds For The Next Secret Mommy Record. By Scott Wood

Picks for 2009 - Jazz on the Rocks by Shelley Gummeson

Playlist for 2009 - Lo-fi Countdowns/Pseudo-Scary Animal Names by Bruno Mazzotta

2009 in Review

Another great year in music has come and gone, Time to take a look back, take stock, remember the good, try to get past the over-rated, highlight some over-looked gems. But first we have some playlists the capture the year in music (from a personal viewpoint)...

Best of 2009 Playlists


Lo-fi Countdowns/Pseudo-Scary Animal Names
By Bruno Mazzotta
The Shit that Hit in 2009
By Andrea-Jane Cornell
Grandfathers In The Ground/ Locket Full of Losing/ Inter-provincial Pen Pals
By Tara-Michelle Ziniuk
Vibe Line
By Prymtym

Picks and Pans 2009


Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more.Here some hosts from across the country weigh in.

Jazz on the Rocks
The Kitchen Sink
Jazz Notes
Pirates of the Carribean
sHIFT Radio
Scott Thomson


Top 200 of 2009

January 2010

The Artist LifeThe Artist Life are moving up
The Artist Life are on a roll. Can anything stop them. By Scott Wood

2009 in Review

Another great year in music has come and gone, Time to take a look back, take stock, remember the good, try to get past the over-rated, highlight some over-looked gems. But first we have some playlists the capture the year in music (from a personal viewpoint)...

Best of 2009 Playlists


Lo-fi Countdowns/Pseudo-Scary Animal Names
By Bruno Mazzotta
The Shit that Hit in 2009
By Andrea-Jane Cornell
Grandfathers In The Ground/ Locket Full of Losing/ Inter-provincial Pen Pals
By Tara-Michelle Ziniuk
Vibe Line
By Prymtym

Picks and Pans 2009


Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more.Here some hosts from across the country weigh in.

Jazz on the Rocks
The Kitchen Sink
Jazz Notes
Pirates of the Carribean
sHIFT Radio
Scott Thomson

Top 200 of 2009

December 2009

You Say Party! We Say Die!You Say Party! We Say Die!'s World Domination
You Say Party! We Say Die! have exploded out of Vancouver to take on the world (except for the USA). By Scott Thomson

Lawrence BlattThe Musical Science of Lawrence Blatt
Lawrence Blatt combines a love of music and science to create the soundscape of light. By Shelley Gummeson

Youth Brigade Esser Will Dazzle You With Pop Perfection
Scott Wood goes on a smoke break with UK indie pop prince Ben Esser.

2009 in Review

Another great year in music has come and gone, Time to take a look back, take stock, remember the good, try to get past the over-rated, highlight some over-looked gems. But first we have some playlists the capture the year in music (from a personal viewpoint)...

Best of 2009 Playlists


Lo-fi Countdowns/Pseudo-Scary Animal Names
By Bruno Mazzotta
The Shit that Hit in 2009
By Andrea-Jane Cornell
Grandfathers In The Ground/ Locket Full of Losing/ Inter-provincial Pen Pals
By Tara-Michelle Ziniuk
Vibe Line
By Prymtym

Picks and Pans 2009


Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more.Here some hosts from across the country weigh in.

Jazz on the Rocks
The Kitchen Sink
Jazz Notes
Pirates of the Carribean
sHIFT Radio
Scott Thomson

November 2009

MetricBeating Like A Hammer: On The Phone with METRiC
Scott Wood gets on the phone with Jimmy Shaw from New Wave Indie Superstars Metric in Toronto.

Ari NeufeldTaking Flight with Ari Neufeld
A stomp box and a guitar powers this Okanagan musician to new heights . By Shelley Gummeson

October 2009

Fucked UpFucked Up takes the Polaris Prize
Ever since its inception, the Polaris Prize has had the stigma attached to it of playing it safe and familiar. So what happened this year? By Scott Thomson

Sista J of Souljah FyahSouljah Fyah are Tasting Their Dreams
The accolades keep piling up for this Edmonton reggae band including winning the 2009 Canadian Reggae Music Award for best band. By Shelley Gummeson

Gaslight AnthemThe Gaslight Anthem on the Road to Success
The hard work of constant touring is starting to pay off for Gaslight Anthem. And that means a bigger bus, bigger venues and even more time on the road. By Scott Thomson

September 2009

Tim Baker of Hey Rosetta!Hey Rosetta! has it's eyes on the prize
Making the Polaris Prize shortlist has vaulted Hey Rosetta! into the big time. By Scott Thomson

Young & SexyYoung & Sexy
It Started As A Botched Romance, But Became Something Beautiful. By Scott Wood

Bria SkonbergKeeping It Fresh - The Bria Skonberg Interview
As just 25, Canadian jazz trumpeter Bria Skonberg has been performing on stage for over 20 years. By Jim Dupuis

Jazz on the Radio
It's a non-stop all-year jazz festival on c/c radio. Listings for jazz programs on the radio, streaming live and by podcast. Compiled by Magnus Thyvold

August 2009

Hillside FestivalHillside Festival 2009 - Field Notes
The Hillside Festival is one of Ontario's premier summer music festivals and pretty much a guarenteed good time. By Scott Thomson

Dana Wiley BandAlley Chat with the Dana Wiley Band
The Dana Wylie Band takes most things in stride, including midnight ice cream in a Prince George back alley. By Shelley Gummeson

Brigitte ZarieYou Must Remember This - The Brigitte Zarie Interview
Former Torontonian and now New Yorker Brigitte Zarie has the David Letterman band at her back and a bright future ahead of her. By Jim Dupuis

July 2009

NXNENorth By Northeast 2009 - Field Notes
Social Studies or Music Appreciation? You can learn about more than just music at North By Northeast By Scott Thompson

Jean-Christophe BeneyThe Jean-Christophe Beney Interview
Montrealer and saxophonist Jean-Christophe Béney was raised in a musical family but took his time before settling on music as a career. His fifth album, released on his own label, is coming out this fall. By Jim Dupuis

Youth Brigade Youth Brigade
A new documentary chronicles three decades of the Youth Brigade and BYO Record. By Scott Thomson

Tank DoucetteChasing the Blues with Sherman “Tank” Doucette
The blues are alive and well in the hands of Sherman Doucette, who is ready to rain down the power of the blues on you and yours. By Shelley Gummeson

If it is Loud, you'll find it here
If you like metal, industrial, punk or any other kind of loud, heavy music, we can help. Here is a listing of loud or heavy shows and campus/community radio across the land. Compiled by Magnus Thyvold

June 2009

Dinosaur JrDinosaur Jr takes it back to the beginning
Twenty years after a bitter split, Dinosaur Jr's orignal line-up has put the bad blood behind them. By Chad Arnish

Olga OsipovaUs3 - Still Kickin' It
Sixteen years after releasing the album Hand On The Torch, producer Geoff Wilkinson of Us3 is still around and running toward the future. By Shelley Gummeson

 

May 2009

Cadence WeaponCadence Weapon Deals with Separation Anxiety
On the release of his new pay-what-you-want mixtape Cadence Weapon considers the new business of music. By Scott Thomson

Coco Love Alcorn Joyful: Coco Love Alcorn
It's a Joyful world of family and friends for Coco Love Alcorn. By Jim Dupuis

Olga OsipovaOlga Osipova: Freedom to Sing
This Russian artist followed her musical passion to a new life, a debut album and a BC Interior Music Award. By Shelley Gummeson

 

April 2009

Shane Phillip : Music in the Eye of the Beholder
Musician Shane Phillip and painter Dave Oram take both music an painting out of the studio and bring them to the live stage.
The Raw Bleeding Heart of Dave Oram
By Shelley Gummeson

Programmer Profile : Eclectricity : Eclectic and Personal
Montreal's DJ Solespin ranges all over the musical map with a show that is both a form of creative expression and a rockin' good time. By Magnus Thyvold

Expanded Listings of Experimental and Avant-Garde Music Programs
An expanded list of experimental and avant-garde music programs available over the air, online and by podcast across Canada.

 

March 2009

Devining Miss Brown
Divine Brown digs into the memory vaults, adds a little shoobe do wop, and comes up an unforgettable soul contender. By Shelley Gummeson

Programmer Profile : The Rib : Experimental Music
As a musician, composer, student and DJ, Robyn Jacob of The Rib on CiTR makes experimental music the centre of her life. Plus experimental show listings across the country. By Magnus Thyvold

 

February 2009

In The Swingfood Mood with Tape Five
Tape Five, a multi-national nu-jazz act, will become the movie to the sound track in your head. By Shelley Gummeson

The Marc L'Esperence Interview
The Man Who Sees Music: Marc L'Esperiance is a producer, photographer, sound engineer and more, By Jim Dupuis

Weirdoes & Movie Stars: Bazooka Goes Bonkers In the O-EIGHT
Bruno Mazotta bring us one more playlist of great tracks to sum of the musical year of 2008

2008 in Review

Top 200 of 2008

As the new year comes in, it time to look back at the musical year that was...

The '2008 Best of...' Playlists

The year-end playlist for friends and family is an annual tradition for many music lovers. !earshot takes a look at what a few of our friends and family from the music obsessed world of c/c radio are cooking up this year.

Weirdoes & Movie Stars: Bazooka Goes Bonkers In the O-EIGHT
By Bruno Mazzotta

Fader in the Key of Simultaneity
By Andrea-Jane Cornell

Meat's Sweet Treats
By Luke Meat

Picks and Pans 2008

Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more...
New Shit
Jazz Notes with Jim
The Church of Noise
Jazz on the Rocks
I Am Collecting Beautiful Things
Nasty Jag Sound Crew
Canada Post-Rock
The Kitchen Sink


January 2009

Way After Party with the Pack A.D.
With their newest album, Funeral Mixtape, The Pack A.D. have recorded the soundtrack for the end of the lives. By Tara-Michelle Ziniuk

The Unstoppable Jane Bunnett
Facing emotional bankruptcy and financial hardship, Jane Bunnett digs deep and turns out her most ambitious and electrifying project to date. By Shelley Gummeson

2008 in Review

Top 200 of 2008

As the new year comes in, it time to look back at the musical year that was...

The '2008 Best of...' Playlists

The year-end playlist for friends and family is an annual tradition for many music lovers. !earshot takes a look at what a few of our friends and family from the music obsessed world of c/c radio are cooking up this year.

Weirdoes & Movie Stars: Bazooka Goes Bonkers In the O-EIGHT
By Bruno Mazzotta

Fader in the Key of Simultaneity
By Andrea-Jane Cornell

Meat's Sweet Treats
By Luke Meat

Picks and Pans 2008

Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more...
New Shit
Jazz Notes with Jim
The Church of Noise
Jazz on the Rocks
I Am Collecting Beautiful Things
Nasty Jag Sound Crew
Canada Post-Rock
The Kitchen Sink

!earshot Top 200 of 2008
For January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008
TW  Artist - Title - (Label)
1 Black Mountain
In The Future - (JagJaguwar/Scratch)
2 Chad VanGaalen
Soft Airplane - (Flemish Eye/Sub Pop)
3 Crystal Castles
Crystal Castles - (Last Gang)
4 The Constantines
Kensington Heights - (Arts & Crafts)
5 Wolf Parade
At Mount Zoomer - (Sub Pop)
6 Plants And Animals
Parc Avenue - (Secret City)
7 Women
Women - (Flemish Eye)
8 Elliott Brood
Mountain Meadows - (Six Shooter)
9 Jason Collett
Here's To Being Here - (Arts & Crafts)
10 Islands
Arm's Way - (Anti)
View the full !earshot Top 200

Specialty Charts #1s
Electronic Crystal Castles - Crystal Castles - (Last Gang)
Hip Hop Cadence Weapon - Afterparty Babies - (Upper Class)
International Dubmatix - Renegade Rocker - (7 Arts)
Jazz Rabnett 5 - Leopardism - (Ropeadope Digital)
Loud Fuck The Facts - Disgorge Mexico - (Relapse)
Folk/Roots/Blues Old Man Luedecke - Proof Of Love - (Black Hen Music)
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December 2008

Double-Teaming with the Mobius Band
Scott Wood can't figure out why everyone doesn't know about indie electronic rockers Mobius Band, so he interviews them!

Electrifying Melodies from the Cellar: Melody Diachun
Melody Diachun pulled together some talented players and eclectic influences to together put a stellar album. By Jim Dupuis

HiSciFi Rules! : Programmer Profile
Irma Arkus' HiSciFi stakes out the entertainment high ground for science fiction. By Magnus Thyvold

Endangered Ape! I think even the band was surprised with how much local buzz this punk rawk group generated.

2008 in Review

Top 200 of 2008

As the new year comes in, it time to look back at the musical year that was...

The '2008 Best of...' Playlists

The year-end playlist for friends and family is an annual tradition for many music lovers. !earshot takes a look at what a few of our friends and family from the music obsessed world of c/c radio are cooking up this year.

Weirdoes & Movie Stars: Bazooka Goes Bonkers In the O-EIGHT
By Bruno Mazzotta

Fader in the Key of Simultaneity
By Andrea-Jane Cornell

Meat's Sweet Treats
By Luke Meat

Picks and Pans 2008

Looking back at some of the best, the over-rated, local surprises and more...
New Shit
Jazz Notes with Jim
The Church of Noise
Jazz on the Rocks
I Am Collecting Beautiful Things
Nasty Jag Sound Crew
Canada Post-Rock
The Kitchen Sink

November 2008

Sir James Galway Just Wants To Be A Good Flute Player
I was going to use a band. Why not get the hottest Latin band around. - James Galway World renowned classical flutist joins forces with Tiempo Libre to get his mojo working with some Cuban rhythm

Calexico charts is own course
Calexico's Joey Burns talks about the bands new album, Carried to Dust

The Revenge of Oppressive Copyright Legislation
Copyright reform that has a lot of people worried is expected to make a post-election comeback

Programmer Profile: There's live and then there's LIVE: Live from Thunderbird Radio Hell
Vancouver's best up and coming bands have been playing live on Live Thunderbird Radio Hell for more than 20 years.


October 2008

Chromeo: Two Boys From Montreal Conquer the World
Chromeo's Dave-1 and P-Thugg teach the advanced class on the '80s.

Strings Attached: The Eliana Cuevas Interview
Eliana Cuevas is standing the Latin jazz world on its head

Brother Blood: The Neville Brothers
From Be-Bop to Hip-Hop the Neville Brothers of New Orleans have done it all and are still going strong

Programmer Profile: Urban is a State of Mind : Droppin' Science and the Mix
When you are not at the centre of the universe, sometimes you need to try harder. That's hip hop in Lethbridge..and that's not a bad thing.


September 2008

Plants and Animals Want to Control Your Mind
Canada's Darwinian indie darlings thrive on evolution.

Vampire Weekend: Not Quite What You Expect
It is not goth; it's sunny indie pop you can listen to with your mom

No Women in Women?
Four guys from Calgary who get serious and make a serious impression

Programmer Profile: The Winnipeg Natural Funk Company
With a Funk show, you can get the party started anytime


August 2008

The Constantines: Constantly Productive
Bryan Webb and co. have been together for nearly a decade and, thankfully, they show no signs of stopping.

Birds of a Feather: Shearwater
Austin band is on the road supporting their fourth album Rook.

The Resurrection of Rebel Emergency
After getting caught in the crossfire of tragic and unbelievable circumstances, Rebel Emergency are back with a new look, a great sound, and an eye to the future.

Programmer Profile: Jazz on the Rocks
Jazz has become a life passion for Shelley G.



July 2008

Rebecca Jenkins-Renaissance Woman
Rebecca Jenkins re-imagines the standards and crafts a new chapter for herself.

Programmer Profile: SLEIZURE and Bass Behavior Radio
There's lots of electronic music on campus radio.




June 2008

Boys Noize: Believe The Hype!
Alexander Ridha only wants to make timeless, underground, club music. Success is incidental.

God Made Me Funky - In Full Effect
From the wedding circuit to the Juno circuit, God Made Me Funky takes their cue from the people

Programmer Profile: Noise Anoize!
Luke Meat likes to get under your skin with a little noise.



May 2008

The Alexis Baro Interview
Cuban-born award winning trumpet player Alex Baro plays the way he feels.

The Rhythm of Shane Philip
Coastal pied piper gets everyone doing the subterranean groove.

Programmer Profile: I am Collecting Beautiful Things
Chris White at Windsor's CJAM is determined not to repeat himself all year long.



April 2008

Tommie Sunshine: Born in the U.S.A.
Scott Wood finds out that Tommie Sunshine makes dance music for the hard-working people.

Ronnie LeBlanc and His Magic Hat
After an acrimonious break up of An Acoustic Sin, Ronnie Leblanc has returned to form with new confidence and energy.

They Don't Have It In This Town ... or Do They?
Can jazz thrive in a small town? !earshot regular Jim Dupuis looks around his hometown of Kamloops to find out.

Programmer Profile: Blowing Up the Lakehead
It takes two long nights of the soul a week to the people of Thunder Bay their metal and punk.



March 2008

Altering Musical Laws with Tom Terrific
Jazz flutist and saxophonist Tom Keenlyside has seen international success, done sessions for pop stars and now runs his own label.

Girl Talk: Making Top 40 Safe For Everyone Else
This month Scott Wood brings us an interview with Girl Talk and his mash-ups on crack.

Times New Viking Make Some Noise
Up-and-coming Ohio trio care more about out-rocking the headlining band than buying expensive guitars or whining about politics.

Programmer Profile: Home Game
Home Game on Victoria's CFUV is just one of many c/c radio programs specializing in Canadian music.

The Legend of Bob Wiseman
A look at the recent history of a multi-media artist who started out in a country-rock band.



February 2008

The Brad Turner Interview
Brad Turner has no trouble defending the importance of the jazz trumpet.

Christine Fellows: Be blunt; be brief; be gone
Keeping the album relevant for the digital age.

Introducing Flosstradamus:
The Future Beckons The Heartland's 100% All-Natural DJ Team.

If you missed it last month, take a look at our Picks and Pans for 2007 where we seek out some of the hidden gems of the year:



January 2008

The Secret Origin of a Champion
Scott Wood talks with the Montreal DJ who named himself Champion to make a joke about being the best.

The Laila Biali Interview
Is the jazz world's loss going to be the pop world's gain or can she straddle both worlds ... ?

The Black Lips Interview
An interview gone wrong... Tune in to what Scott Wood has to share.

!earshot Picks for 2007
We asked a few programmers and music experts what they thought of the music of the year just past. Here are their tips from these programs on some of the best releases and best local releases, the most over- and under-rated records of the year and more.



December 2007

Catching Up With Campbell Ryga
Campbell Ryga talks about his new album with PJ Perry and lays some bird droppings and hockey cliches on jazz columnist Jim Dupuis.

Himalayan Bear Sings of Laughter
Chet guitarist shows a different face to the world with stunning side-project.

The Weakerthans - Topics are specific, but themes are universal
Guitarist Stephan Carroll isn't worried that a little local colour with confuse the band's international audience.

Ghislain Poirier: The World is His Playground
Former Campus Radio Wizard Takes It to the Big Leagues.

Program Profile: Melodies in Mind
It's a folk show with a difference. Two hours packed with live performances, interviews and more.

!earshot Picks for 2007
We asked a few programmers and music experts what they thought of the music of the year just past. Here are their tips from these programs on some of the best releases and best local releases, the most over- and under-rated records of the year and more.



November 2007

Caribou: The Great Migration
Dan Snaith's music and career are always on the move. He seems to be on tour forever too.

The Jillian Lebeck Interview
Jim Dupuis discusses jazz, Beatles tunes, and even Michael Jackson with yet another westcoast rising star.

Introducing DESPOT
The rapper with a Napoleon Complex is making his mark.

Program Profile: Rebel Vibez
Toronto based radio program focuses on Canadian reggae scene.

Holy Fuck's Unbroken Social Scene
A cohesive new record shows shows the band evolving its sound and finding a new focus.



October 2007

Another West Coast Lion: Amanda Tosoff
With Still Life, young west coast jazz pianist and her quartet are making their mark.

Genghis Tron: Revenge of the Nerds
It's hardcore. It's electronic. And more than the sum of its parts.

Program Profile: The Judy Adams Show
The freedom to range widely and explore genres is one of the great things about campus/community radio.



September 2007

Revelling in the Gloom: Lightning Dust
Lightning Dust finds Black Mountain-eers trading psychedelic rock for Goth.

The Choir Practice Sings Out!
Is the world ready for an indie-pop choir? It seems so.

The Carol McCartney Interview
Canadian jazz vocalist Carol McCartney skats and solos with a stellar cast on her new record, A Night in Tunisia..

Tricks of the Trade: Capade
An interview with Nikola Tucakov from Capade.

Program Profile: Bluegrass
Nelson, BC's Pickin' n' Grinnin' celebrates bluegrass.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
Bryndis is back from the flood to share the highlights of the annual FolkFest 2007, new releases, and more...


August 2007

120 Days of Sodom
Norwegian band 120 Days has come a long way from their days living on the streets of Oslo.

The Christine Jensen Interview
Canadian Jazz saxophonist Christine Jensen is another product of Nanaimo, BC's flourishing school jazz programs.

Mango. Avacado. Salsa.
Victoria's country vixen Carolyn Mark has a recipe for success.

Program Profile: The Mich Vish Interracial Morning Show
CFRU's Mich Vish Interracial Morning Show mixes it up in more ways than one.


July 2007

The Cape May
Haunted Landscapes and High Stakes Poker Games.

P.J. Perry, LL.D
Although he’d rather be fishing, P.J. Perry, Canada’s newest jazz doctor, reflects on his fifty years (and counting) in jazz.

Program Profile: Vancouver Metal
CiTR's PowerChord has been pummelling the airwaves for two decades.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
Listen in to what Bryndis has to purr and hiss about this month.


June 2007

You Say Party! We Say Die!
From Abbotsford to the world, YSP! WSD! are on a roll.

These Melancholy Robots: Shout Out Out Out Out
"Our lyrics are the way they are, but in between songs the message is clear. It's party time."

No Luck Club: From History to Hip Hop
No Luck Club chart their own history heritage with hip hop

Program Profile: Canada Post-rock
Post-rock, skateboards and new records are part of a day in the life of Lethbridge's John Pantherbone.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
Bj�rk and Arcade Fire perform in Vancouver. Is there anything to hiss about? Listen in to what Bryndis has to say.


May 2007

Presenting Cadence Weapon
"Not everybody's gonna like you, but you've gotta keep making music. No matter what."

Book Review: A Certain Respect for Tradition: Mark Miller on Jazz: Selected Writings 1980-2005
Jim Dupuis reviews the latest offering from Canadian Jazz writer Mark Miller

The Greg Lowe Interview
Winnipeg Jazz Guitarist Greg Lowe's eighth album, Guitar and Bass Sessions, features two bass players and a batch of familiar classics rearranged and made new again.

Program Profile: Hop the Fence - Independent Music and Interviews
Many radio shows like CHUO Ottawa's Hop the Fence incorporate interviews and music to get the inside scoop on what makes musicians tick. Plus listings for more shows that give you more than just the music.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
The Book Of Lists, Panda Bear, Frog Eyes.and Jarvis Cocker: Bryndis casts judgement.


April 2007

The David Lee Interview: Ornette Coleman and the Battle of the Five Spot
David Lee's new book takes a close look at one of the turning points in the history of jazz

The Battle of the Five Spot: Ornette Coleman and the New York Jazz Field
Jim Dupuis reviews "The Battle of the Five Spot: Ornette Coleman and the New York Jazz Field"- a book by David Lee that looks at Ornette Coleman's New York debut at the Five Spot Café jazz club and the effects it had on the jazz community.

Julie Doiron
Julie Doiron has crafted a chart-topper with her latest release Woke Myself Up. Bridget Arsenault reports.

The Salads: We're Good For You!
A bit of maturity hasn't slowed down the party rawk of the The Salads.

Program Profile: Deconstructing Dinner
In the tradition of Fast Food Nation and Supersize Me, Jon Stienman takes a close look at the food we eat and where it comes from.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
"Purrs" will, of course, reflect my opinions on what is absolutely necessary to own in your music collection, or just something I think is pretty worthwhile to check out. The "hisses" will be for those acts I feel are overrated or disappointing. I will also include the occasional customer feature, interview, or whatever else musical I can find to fill the page. And as always, the hyperbole will flow and the f-bombs will drop.


March 2007

Jazz Music, Jazz Club, Jazz Label: The Cory Weeds Interview � Part 2
Cory Weeds is helping to keep the west coast jazz scene sizzling with his jazz club and label.

Uffie: Attack of The Damn Crazy Brat
Innocent looks don't stop Uffie from being a lightning rod for controversy.

Program Profile - Dig Your Roots: Creative Jazz
Five national live concert broadcasts celebrate new and adventurous Canadian jazz talents.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
"Purrs" will, of course, reflect my opinions on what is absolutely necessary to own in your music collection, or just something I think is pretty worthwhile to check out. The "hisses" will be for those acts I feel are overrated or disappointing. I will also include the occasional customer feature, interview, or whatever else musical I can find to fill the page. And as always, the hyperbole will flow and the f-bombs will drop.


February 2007

Jazz Music, Jazz Club, Jazz Label: Cory Weeds Interview
Earshot's Jim Dupuis thought he was too busy, until he talked with Cory Weeds of the The Cellar who is helping to keep the west coast jazz scene sizzling. Part 1 of 2.

Final Fantasy: Falling in Love with a Video Game Character
Polaris Prize winner Owen Pallet, a.k.a. Final Fantasy, didn't set out to court acclaim but by following his own strange vision he's found it anyway.

Purrs & Hisses from Meow Records
CFUR Music Director Bryndis Ogmundson now has her own store, Meow Records. She shares her thoughts about music, the people who buy it, and how it does on the charts.

2006 Picks and Pans
We asked a few programmers and music expert what they thought of the music of the year just past. Here are their tips from these programs on some of the best releases and best local releases, the most over- and under-rated records of the year and more.


January 2007

!earshot top 200 of 2006
The entire top 200 of 2006 and closer look at the top 10 albums of the year from Pink Mountaintops to Cat Power to Tokyo Police Club to Destroyer and more. And annual top 20s for Electronica, Folk/Roots/Blues, Hip hop, International, Jazz and Loud.

2006 Picks and Pans
We asked a few programmers and music expert what they thought of the music of the year just past. Here are their tips from these programs on some of the best releases and best local releases, the most over- and under-rated records of the year and more.

The Jodi Proznick Interview
This month Jim Dupuis finds out that fat cats are inspirational and there’s a whole lot of ways to define foundation when he chats with Vancouver bassist Jodi Proznick.

Robert Pollard Gone Solo
Iconic Indie-Rocker Launches on a new Journey... Kind Of.


December 2006

The Two-Wheeled Obsession of Nich Worby
Ex-Majestics Nich Worby decided to strike on his own, but missed playing in a big band. So he got all his friends together and hit the studio.

Matthias Lupri: Catching the Vibe
Jim Dupuis talks to Matthias Lupri and gets the scoop on the vibes, scary movie music and flower eating cats.

The Best of 2006
We take an early look aback at the musical year 2006. It not too early to see who shined (did someone say Beck) and who disappointed.

Programmer Profile- Tell the Band to Go Home
Folk, Roots, Blues - Tell the Band to Go Home is a land where the songwriter and the performer are king.

Inbox(1) - Nate Query
A Decemberist for December.

Inside the Chart
CJSW Music Director Derek McEwan steps in to make some pointed observations on Beck, Mastodon, The Be Good Tanyas, DJ Shadow and the rest of this month's chart denizens.


November 2006

Turntablism: Recognizing the Art
Most people recognize that turntablism is a vibrant creative art form. Too bad the CRTC doesn't see it that way.

Coco Goes Real Good With Sugar
Coco Love Alcorn has a cross-country tour to promote her new CD Sugar. Before heading out she talked with Earshot's Jim Dupuis about dinner parties, good parenting and Anne Murray.

Programmer Profile- World Music - Pandemic Pulse on Nanaimo's CHLY
Host Thalie keeps the focus squarely on the music, plus listings for more World Music shows all available online.

Inbox(1) - Les Georges Leningrad
Besides being totally awesome, find out more about this titillating trio.

Inside the Chart
Check out this month's column for a chance to win a fantastic Decemberists contest.


October 2006

Coco Goes Real Good With Sugar
Coco Love Alcorn has a cross-country tour to promote her new CD Sugar. Before heading out she talked with Earshot's Jim Dupuis about dinner parties, good parenting and Anne Murray.

Programmer Profile- Ian Cochran's Searchin'
From Monk and Mingus to Shipp and Frisell, Searchin' explores the non-bop sides of jazz.

Inbox(1) - DSD
Meet the most charming swedish-keyed fiddler and hurdy gurdy man ever, Derrick Denholm.

Inside the Chart
Find out why the world needs a new music store.


September 2006

The D.D. Jackon Interview
Jazz pianist/composer D.D Jackson talks to Jim Dupuis about his new CD, living in New York, and the soundtrack to Grease.

Programmer Profile- Punks and Mods
Mods and rockers, punks and more rul the airwaves every week on Punks in Parkas on Winnipegs UMFM 101.5

Inbox(1) - Big Old Eyes
Senile in the fog telling grand old lies. No one left to blame but them big old eyes!


August 2006

Tokyo Police Club
Toronto's Tokyo Police Club are getting some attention with the debut A Lesson in Crime.

A Week at the Vancouver international Jazz Festival
Earshot's jazz interviewer Jim Dupuis had no time for interviews this month as he was in Vancouver at an auditory and visual smorgasbord that the locals call "the jazz festival".

Programmer Profile- Folk, Bluegrass and Country
Nancy McCormack's Small Towns and Big Dreams

Inside the Chart
Bryndis tackles the problem of aging in the music 'biz'...

Inbox(1) - Helen Spitzer
Coming soon...


!earshot audio features

A collection of short interviews featuring musicans and samples of their muisic. Only on !earshot online.

 

[!e]

The print version of !earshot comes out every month in the back of Exclaim! magazine. You can find free copies of Exclaim! (and !earshot) in newsstands, shops and live venues across Canada.

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