Ah, Gay Xmas, AKA Pride … its just around the corner. To support fellow members of the Queerio community is always a good thing when getting ready for our once a yearly celebration. In my opinion, you can never start getting ready too early. Here are a few gems worth shares, tweets and likes for your fellow Queerios! You may have started wondering where you are going to get your a custom T shirt, a new hair cut, or who might be looking for volunteers for the Pride Festival. I also consulted with my resident fashionista, Cee from The Art of Wor on tips for Pride 2012 and on “what to wear.”

***Note-This deal is on with FabFind.ca ($69 for a Professionally-Applied Set of Eyelashes at Rouge Nail Bar ) for those of you living in Montreal for TODAY only Click HERE for more info

I first heard about eyelash extensions a few years ago from a friend’s beauty store and couldn’t quite get the concept around my head. How could it be possible to manually apply, lash by lash, extensions that stay put for not only days, but weeks?  Since then eyelash extensions have grown in popularity. Packed with a hefty price tag, I never felt the need for them. On average it costs $250 per set, you also have to ensure that the person doing it is using all the right equipment: best lashes, glue and stickers to protect your eyes from getting said glue in them.

Thankfully, I found this all at Rouge Nail Bar.

When I arrived at the location on Crescent Street, a lovely Marie-France greeted and asked me what length of lash I’d prefer; extra long to make a bold statement or something au natural. I chose somewhere in the middle. She then had me lie down and explained everything. She’d be putting stickers just under my bottom lids to ensure I wouldn’t get glue in my eyes. When she first applied the stickers I wasn’t so sure. But, she was extremely gentle, so I quickly relaxed.

The hour and fifteen minutes it took to apply my new falsies felt more like 30 min. And during that time Marie-France and I chatted about everything under the sun, err, lamp I should say. She told me that the equipment is really expensive, hence why they’re so costly. But most of all, it was the special glue. This special glue that’s approved by health regulators and is hypoallergenic, costs a whopping $200 per bottle. Add a box of lashes for $60 and you can turn 40 clients into the next Kim Kardashian. Though, this is definitely not something I’d recommend doing at home. Marie-France took a three-day course on how to apply them and it shows!

As she removed the stickers, she told me to be patient (this was a little hard), while she dries the glue. Then, she asked me to open my eyes. One of them got stuck together, but she assured me that it’s normal and gently pulled the lashes apart. She then reached for the mirror and showed me my fabulous new falsies. I couldn’t believe my eyes. They looked beautiful.

It immediately instilled a quiet confidence in me. I couldn’t recommend this experience anymore. The only slightly inconvenient step is to make sure not to get water on your lashes for the first 24 hours. And to solve that I wore giant aviators in the shower. It worked just fine. Whether you’re going on vacation, getting hitched or looking for a pick-me-up, this is totally something to try. I have to say that I am completely in lust with my luscious new lashes!

Originally a jazz quintet based out of Sherbrooke, PQ, Misteur Valaire has not only carved a ridge in the era of digital music but their simple, yet calculated portfolio of compositions will fill the crevasses of your heart in all the right places.

Prodigious childhood training and a passion for music, Misteur Valaire’s orchestral arrangement bursts in hues of pop, modified percussion lines, and skeletal shadows of electro-pop. An inexplicable bonanza of artistic soundness and cold classic experimental jam theory, this group is eye-bogglingly fun times. Indicated by sensational stage organization and role mastery, all five members impress with both traditional and electronic instrumentals.  Machinery aside, there’s no mistaking the street savvy, five-one-four mastery on latest record Golden Bombay, and with features including collaborations with Bran Van 3000, Gigi French, and Beni BBQ there’s no doubt la belle province has hit a pocket of bold, space-binding magic, yet again.

I caught up with the boys at CMW and got the low down on all things ‘Qualité‘ et al.

As a group of young jazz musicians, how did you evolve to become Misteur Valaire?

“One by one we just decided to integrate some electronic stuff .  We started with buying little machines and one by one we bought synthesizers and made the sound move.  Gille and I actually went to boy scouts together and when we were 16 we decided to start experimenting with some electro stuff.”

Had you always hoped to branch into the English community?

“Ya. But it wasn’t really like that. We don’t compose music with the goal of targeting some kind of market. We just wanted to play all around the world and it was a goal to do as many shows as possible.”

What does it mean to you to be nominated for Best New Group at this years Juno Awards?

“How exciting eh? We didn’t expect it but we think it’s great! I don’t know exactly what it means but we haven’t always had the chance to play in and around Canada outside of Montreal, so it’s a really good thing for us to be able to play in more in new places.”

How has the web helped build your fan base?

“It’s actually been the basis of our career. We launched in 2007 exclusively on the web for free. There weren’t any records for sale in the stores and two years after that we were selling over 45, 000 times that. It’s given us that chance to launch golden Bombay and after we did launched it, we started selling records in-store and both really started to take off.”

Watch Misteur Valaire’s impromptu street performance of “Ave Mucho” in Brussels:

Alas, the week-long incredible music festival (gong show?) known as Canadian Music Week has come to an end and what better time than now to reflect on the good, the bad and the mind blowing. The lovely ladies of Pink Mafia joined forces and took the city by storm to bring you the very best of the week. It was was non-stop amazing live music, great people and a lot of nights way past our bedtimes. Shouts out to the staff/volunteers/every soul that made this week possible, your hard work is much appreciated. Canadian Music Week, you’re the best!

WEDNESDAY MARCH 9th

Rouge @ The Gladstone Hotel- Words & photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver

When I originally attended the Proud FM showcase, I had no intention of reviewing Rouge.  However, something happened while I was there.  This all girl 3-piece began playing their bubbly electro-pop and it was so infectious that I couldn’t help but grow over the course of their 30-minute set to love it more & more.  Even as they were experiencing some technical difficulties, they took it all in stride and commanded the stage with such style, grace and presence.  For me, I got a very Katie Stelmanis vibe from them, which is nothing but absolutely wonderful.  Given that these girls played an earlier timeslot (9:30PM) and had an entire room moving, goes to show that they have a bright future ahead of them.

Creature @ The Gladstone Hotel- Words & photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
I have had the opportunity to see Creature a couple times now and each time I’ve really enjoyed them. One of the very first times was at a NXNE showcase at the ElMocombo.  This Montreal group always plays very fun and energetic pop songs, so I knew I was in for quite the show.  But something was different from every time I had seen them.  As the group launched into their set, the two leads (Kim Ho and Lisa Ivy) seemed over-the-top and almost disingenuous.  As they were trying to make group interactions, it seemed like it was just part of the whole stage “show” rather than part of what they felt like they wanted to do.  Also, it seemed like their sound had evolved into the annoying bratty cousin of the Scissor Sisters.  Which sucks because I love the Scissor Sisters.  Overall, this performance made me hit the “Do Not Like” button for them.   So sad.

Gentleman Reg @ The Gladstone Hotel - Words & photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
Sometimes I think Toronto doesn’t know what it has because we’re currently sleeping on a legend.  His name is Gentleman Reg.  All throughout the night, he was wandering around The Gladstone selling merchandise and interacting with fans.  I was so sad to see that when he finally when on, the room was nearly empty.  I felt like we had been invited to Reg’s own private listening party.  It was raw and real and honest.  He opened up by saying something along the lines of, “You can buy my merch at the back, I’d really like to make rent.”  Then mentioned he would also liked to get signed.  His set was filled with intensity and maturity.  My highlight (and my friend Cody from The Little Red Umbrella as well) — when he dedicated Stevie Nick’s “Wild Hearts” to him.  As I said on Twitter that night, GIVE THIS MAN A RECORD DEAL!

Mother Mother @ The Phoenix- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

My week got off to a rough start but with rain boots and umbrella in check, I headed over to the Phoenix for some Mother Mother who’s new album EUREKA is out March 15th. Rococode and Whale Tooth(who were joined by Scott Farmer from the Russian Futurists) were both fantastic. It could have been a combination of the wasted dude behind me falling asleep and using my back as a pillow and the music of Birds of Tokyo leading up to Mother Mother but I wasn’t totally blown away, although everyone else seemed to be eating it up.

THURSDAY MARCH 10th

Cadence Weapon @ The Opera House- Words by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
I have been diggin on Cadence Weapon for a bit now. So getting the opportunity to see him live, I jumped on it. He had a really great swagger on stage, mentioning that he wasn’t used to playing for an all ages crowd & relied mostly on newer material, such as tracks like “Come on James Brown” and “Jukebox”. The tracks themselves were danceable and had amazing beats. Cadence though seemed under impressed with the audience telling everyone to “dance and act like they were at a hip hop show”. Once he said that, it seemed to garner a reaction with the crowd as everyone got to moving. However, I did hear someone in the audience near me say that Cadence’s performance sucked. Well, sorry you didn’t like it bro. Sucks to be you. Seems like you’re the only one.

Behind Sapphire @ Toronto Institute for the Enjoyment of Music - Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

After a solid 8 hours I was up and at them for some interviews, panels and brunch with Buck 65. Ok, well it was more Richard Terfry sitting at the table beside me, but still. I made my way over to the Toronto Institute for the Enjoyment of Music for some really cool living room sessions. Hands & Teeth, Paper Lions, Allie Hughs, Rich Aucoin, The Wilderness of Manitoba all took turns throughout the week but it was Behind Sapphire’s awe-inspiring raw performance that stole my heart.

The Balconies @ Sonic Boom- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

Next stop: Sonic Boom who seemingly booked every single incredible band for their in-store series. They did a nice job of mixing genres and giving a perfect little taste of each artist. James Vincent McMorrow, Sandman Viper Command, Bombay Bicycle Club, Dinosaur Bones, Humans, Pkew Pkew Pkew, to name a few, shared the three-day bill with J Mascis and provided you with a better way to kill time between shows than having a smoke. The Balconies rocked that basement hard and while Jacquie Neville admitted they hadn’t played in a while you’d never be able to tell.

Brett Caswell & the Marquee Rose @ Sneaky Dee’s - Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

The Audio Blood showcase started on a sweet note with Charlotte Cornfield then Huron, Sandman Viper Command and Teenage Kicks kicked (ha!) the night into overdrive. My socks were officially knocked off by Brett Caswell & the Marquee Rose though. I began my obsession with Brett Caswell & the Marquee Rose after seeing them at the Juno Decade party for the 90s and even though they were the house band they totally stole the show. These are musicians who love being musicians and their energy fills the room until it swells. They pulled out all the stops with a Harry Nilsson cover and a horn section that somehow made their incredible sounding music even more incredible.

Yukon Blonde @ The Great Hall- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

I didn’t plan on leaving the previously mentioned showcase because the bands were all so amazing and it was a great crowd of people, but I’m glad I dipped to see Yukon Blonderemind me why I love music so much. I can’t say I’m in love with the venue only because it always sounds so muted to me but they played through a great set. My favourite moment was when Jeff Innes asked for the vocal assistance of Jacquie Neville (The Balconies) Mike Denby (Make Your Exit) and Lowell Sostomi (The Great Bloomers)  on ‘Fire’. Amazing.

FRIDAY MARCH 9th

Audio Blood Party @ Toronto Underground Cinema- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

Because they throw the best parties in Toronto, we headed over to the Toronto Underground Cinema for the Audio Blood day party. As if the sheer joy of watching their mega ultra roster of bands alone wasn’t enough, we got to wash it all down with some St-Ambrose brew and snack on band-flavoured chips courtesy of The Galley. Yes, BAND flavoured. Dinosaur Bones have never tasted so good! The space was awesome, and so were the bands: Dinosaur Bones, Brett Caswell & The Marquee Rose, The Balconies, Sandman Viper Command, who’s videos were also being shown on the big screen. Neato!

Girl @ Revival- Words and photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
When these guys walked out onto stage, the first thing I noticed were the matching suits and RayBans.  All I could think was “Oh dear God, this is going to be terrible”.  In fact, it wasn’t.  What I ended up getting was entertained by four guys from Montreal who were playing very catchy indie pop.  As I was telling a friend of mine later, it reminded me of The Killers.  He said that was a terrible comparison.  But I pleaded, “No – remember The Killers first album and how catchy and wonderful it was.  How you just wanted to sing along with every song.”  That’s the kind of Killers stuff I’m referring to.  For playing to an almost empty room, they took it all in stride, playing for the audience.  With supreme confidence and a great sound, these boys should do well.

Gabby Young @ Revival - Words and Photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver

I think one of the biggest highlight and surprises of the week for me (personally) was Gabby Young.  Playing at the early time slot of 8:00PM, hardly anyone was in the room.  She came out onto stage with her vibrant red hair, a jacket made up of gigantic puff balls and told those in the audience to come a little bit closer.  I honestly had no idea what to expect, as I hadn’t heard of her before.  But as soon as she started singing, I completely blown away.  She had so much range and so much energy.  Her brassy attitude reminded me of one part Amy Winehouse, a little bit Regina Spector and a whole lot Kate Bush.  Just brilliant.  Promoting her new album, “We’re All In This Together” — she began singing a song of the same name and dedicating it to Japan.  She is definitely one of the artists to watch in 2011.

Maylee Todd and Pegwee Power @ Revival – Words and Photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver

Maylee Todd is the most adorable performer you ever did see.  So I hopped at the chance to see her and her band perform and was not disappointed.  Armed with her strap-on harp, leopard print jump suit and with her band each all colour coordinated, they started off their set sultry and jazzy.  Her vocal range is killer and her band accompanied her so well on each song, making each journey seem dream like. Beautiful performance.

The Pack A.D. @ The Bovine Sex Club- Words and Photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
I have seen The Pack A.D. three times now and I have never been disappointed.  You would think that with only two people in the group, they wouldn’t be able to achieve the loud and heavy sound that most full bands would.  But let me tell you this, this Vancouver duo of Becky Black and Maya Miller assault your eardrums in the best possible way with blues driven, serious rock & roll.  The two have such a way on stage (it reminds me of Jack and Meg White of the White Stripes) with their playful banter and how they say, “Should we play this song?” and they just know exactly what the other is thinking.  They are heading back into the studio soon to record a new album, so if you have a chance see them live soon.

Berlin Brides @ The Painted Lady- Words and Photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver
I had been recommended this group by a friend of mine.  So I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I thought I’d check them out.  It seemed like they had a bit of a following to begin with, which was awesome.  The songs themselves seemed alright.  Sometimes they sang in French, but 80% of the time in English.  But it seemed like their show (all in all) needed a bit of fine-tuning.  The girls in the group seemed super enthusiastic but at times, the show seemed a little lacking.  It could have also had to do that the stage they were on was teeny tiny.

Middle Brother @ The Opera House- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

The only show I was truly bummed about missing was J Mascis with Kurt Vile and James Vincent McMorrow as I’ve heard through the twittersphere it was intense, but the decision was made to stay and hang with Dawes, Deer Tick and Delta Spirit’s super group Middle Brotherinstead. They were joined by the rad-ass Jonny Corndawg who was celebrating his birthday. I thought this show was going to be a revue but the awkward breaks in the night with no real changes on stage tripped me up a bit. It was still exactly what good ol’ American rock n’ roll should be.

The Meligrove Band @ Sneaky Dee’s- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

How does such a talented band that works so hard still seemingly go unnoticed? Ugh! I’m just going to continue to give their documentary to everyone I know for birthdays/anniversarys/bar mitzvahs. It’s their loss and our gain because we can continue to have these little moments with them in small venues where everyone is havin’ a time. Meligrove packed the room and literally every single person was singing, dancing then to end the set jumping and shouting along with ‘Ages and Stages’. As if that wasn’t enough awesome, Make Your Exit took the stage after and continued the love-fest with the crowd and had everyone signing along to ‘Leave This Town’. I woke up the next morning with blown eardrums and no voice.

SATURDAY MARCH 12th

The Zoobombs @ The Baitshop- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

After a quick chat with Shad, we headed over to The Baitshop (which is easily one of the best spaces in Toronto) for the Scion + Musebox day party with Russian Futurists, Dinosaur Bones, Diemonds and show-stealers The Zoobombs. Holy hell! Despite the tragic events over the week in their homebase Japan, they came out like pros and slapped the crowd in the face with their super-charged funk/psych style rock n’ roll. We had such an awesome time at the show that we caught them again later that night for an even better set at The Comfort Zone. Seriously, Zoobombs, you’re the best!

Diemonds @ The Baitshop- Words and Photos by Amanda (Ama) Scriver

Diemonds are a staple in the Toronto metal (glam metal) scene.  It’s no wonder either because they put on a hard rocking show.

The Indies @ The Royal York Hotel- Words by Kate Masewich photos by Courtney Lee Yip

Awards shows aren’t really my thing but I was curious to see what it was all about. The sandwiches were delicious. But seriously though, the acoustics in the Ontario Room were tight and each artist had stunning digital visuals. Hannah Geroges got the short end of the stick with a shortened set, but at least I got to watch the talented singer/songwriter do her thing at all.

Everyone and their mother was talking about seeing Bombay Bicycle Clubduring the week for their first North American performance and since I didn’t make it in time to Lee’s for the Dine Alone showcase the night before I was super stoked to see them (Even if it was at a MuchMusic video dance party). They absolutely didn’t disappoint and I’m quite sure that they’re the reason my temporary horrible mood disappeared. So, thanks guys for being so amazing!

Hollerado looked like they were ready to play dodgeball but instead celebrated Dean’s birthday with a high-energy, crowd adorning performance. They nabbed the Favourite Video of the Year award for the too good video ‘Americanarama’.

Shadtook home the award for Favourite Urban Artist of the Year and a little piece of everyone’s heart with his easy charm and brilliance. I really wanted to leave and see Neon Windbreaker at El Mocambo but there was a rumor that Janelle Monae was going to come to the stage via tightrope…she didn’t because that actually would have been ridiculous, but she was spot on as always. Unfortunately I couldn’t see a thing as the room was packed and the world’s tallest men were having a convention in front of me, but she sounded fantastic.

Janelle Monae photograph courtesy of Kayely Luftig

SUNDAY MARCH 13th

Bathurst @ Parts & Labour – Words and photos by Courtney Lee Yip

I didn’t think it was possible to still be alive at this time in the game, but my broken body was hauled over to glamtown/Parkdale to see a nice quiet band from the burbs who played an easygoing acoustic set. KIDDING! Bathurst was LOUD and AMAZING. A blend of pop-punk that encapsulates what it means to be writing in CAPS LOCK! YES!

Modernboys Moderngirls @ Hard Luck Bar – Words and photos by Courtney Lee Yip

We’ve been meaning to see these Toronto studs for ages and we finally got our chance last night. Truly no better way to end this week’s hellrace festivities than with the more than enjoyable set by Modernboys Moderngirls. I’m gonna go out on a limb here and describe them through showing you their album cover from their album I Might as Well Break it.

Kind of a cop out for a writer, but bear with me here. MBMG: Heavy 50′s influenced rock and roll with soul, that makes you want to get it on and dance/drive right off a cliff into adrenaline-filled oblivion. Am I right fellow jivers?

Charles F of Winter Gloves took the 20 Qs leading up to their badass tour from Montreal (Sept 4), to Montreal again (Sept 25), then New York (Rochester, NYC and Brooklyn), Baltimore (Oct 4), and even Orlando (Oct 10). Alas there is no scheduled Toronto Date at this time, but Montreal is a nice weekend get away. Think about it.

1. What is your dream of happiness?

Sugar.

2. Blonde or Brunette?

Brunette, not many blondes in Montreal. Oh wait… Blonde, not many blondes in Montreal.

3. What is the quality you like most in a woman?

Negotiation skills.

4. What do you fear most?

My mom.

5. 808s or 909s?

808s !

6. What’s your biggest regret?

I should have answered “There’s nothing like a real drum kit” at question 5.

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

It was the Master Mariner (Brighton, UK) before the manager robbed the place and ran away.

8. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

My glasses

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you’d like to see perform?

Julian Casablanca, Elliot Smith, Jimi Hendrix

10. What is your favorite decade in music?

2000′s for the rebirth of Garage music and Indie culture. The Strokes saved the world.

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

Blind, couldn’t live without the music!

12. How old is too old?

When you’re not impressed anymore.

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Producing my favorite bands in the south of France.

14. Who’s your hero?

Agent Dale Cooper (Twin Peaks).

15. What’s your favourite colour?

Red !

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

Kings Of Leon, Use Somebody

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Madonna. Better taste in clothes.

18. What’s your most hated vice?

Asking for directions to systematically not follow them.

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

Really ? Oedipus or Kurt Cobain ?

20. What are the top three live shows you’ve seen in your life?

1-Beck  4-Radiohead  3-Spoon

You knew it was going to be a special kind of night.  The weather held up, the humidity was getting guys and girls alike to strip down to barely nothing and the epic bill of Chromeo/Holy Ghost were playing at the Phoenix.  I remember I have been trying to see Chromeo since their last tour, I even had tickets too – but then I ended up having to sell them and not go due to family commitments.  Well not this time, this time I was going to experience it all.

Arriving at the Phoenix, Kelly and I walked mid-way through the set of Brooklyn’s own Telephoned.  Currently signed to A-Trak’s Fool’s Gold imprint, Telephoned were simply put – a cover band.  While they took recognizable songs and mashed them up, I felt like I was trapped in a Korean karaoke lounge with a friend who had potentially brought their own CD of beats. It got me head bobbing, but it wasn’t exactly mind-blowing.

Next up was Holy Ghost!, also hailing from Brooklyn NYC, who laid down the perfect groundwork for the evening.  Complete with synths, cowbells and the occasional symbal crash, Holy Ghost brought their disco-ladden and new wave sound.  Maybe it has been the touring with LCD Soundsystem, but they were channeling some serious Hot Chip and LCD vibes in this set.  The only complaint I would have to say about the Holy Ghost set was that it seemed so short.  In the blink of an eye, it was all over.  That’s when you know you’ve been completely wrapped up within the music.  You don’t even realize you’re there anymore.

I will make this comment about Chromeo, they don’t have any quasi-celebrity hang-ups about them. Dave-1 from the band came out into the crowd several times prior to the show actually starting to check out Telephoned and Holy Ghost, without too many ladies bothering him.  Since he was standing beside me, I got to listen in on one of these conversations.  It consisted of music, Toronto and just general chit-chat. But as soon as the clock struck, 10:55PM – he dashed away.

Without further adieu, Chromeo took to the stage launching into their new single, “Don’t Turn The Lights On” from the album Business Casual.  The strobe lights show was intense (especially for someone who is epileptic, like me!), but I managed to find a safe haven where I could still see the stage without getting killed by the lights.  Dave-1 and P-Thugg definitely know how to give a crowd what they came for, pulling out all the classics from their previous album “Fancy Footwork” like “Tenderoni” and “Bonafied Lovin”.  The Phoenix was one big sweat pit of bros, hoes, and fans alike. The set was danceable and funkadelic.  Gave an awesome preview of the album to come.  Personally, I had not seen Toronto go that hard on a Tuesday night in awhile.  I’m so happy this was my first Chromeo experience.

Photos by Kelly McElwain

Electrofunkadelic duo Chromeo have been been tearing up the Canadian music scene for years. “Fancy Footwork” sounds like smearing on cherry red lipstick and running out the door in 5 inch heels, while “Night by Night” is the 80′s theme song for an unwritten action movie.   They’ll be hitting up Metropolis in their hometown, Montreal on July 31rst and the Phoenix, in Toronto, on August 3rd. To find out more about tour dates and getting tickets, take your ass HERE. But first, P-Thugg was nice enough to take the 20 Qs below.

1. What is your dream of happiness?

My dream of happiness is to live a full life, work as hard as I can and die with enough good “god credit” to spend my time in heaven jamming with Rick James, Roger Troutman and all the rest of my idols which aren’t dead yet so I’m not going to name them, it’s back luck.

2. Blonde or Brunette?

Brunette

3. What is the quality you like most in a man?

Loyalty. Can’t really explain it because I’m going to sound like I’m giving a moral lesson, but that’s very important.

4. What do you fear most?

Dogs.. All animals actually.

5. 808s or 909s?

808s. Nothing against 909s or 909 based music though.

6. What’s your biggest regret?

Wow, metaphysical question… I’m not too sure, I don’t really regret anything. I’d rather try and fail than regret something I didn’t try. Maybe I regret not listening to my high school french lessons… I was more of a math and physics guy.

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

Blizzarts in Montreal. Dave and I spent years going there every friday and it’s still open today. They make the best Irish Car Bombs in town.

8. What¹s the one thing you can’t live without?

7up soda and my talkbox.

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you¹d like to see perform?

Roger Troutman, Rick James and Fleetwood Mac. Actually it would be great to see them perform together, right?

10. What is your favorite decade in music?

Well I’m actually right in between 2 decades that I equally like. 70s and 80s, but I don’t like the whole 70s and I don’t like the whole 80s, so here’s a new decade I created, from 1976 to 1986… That’s my favorite decade, it’s still 10 years and covers much more material than just 70s or 80s. Best of both worlds.

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

Oh that’s easy, go blind, completely blind any day before loosing hearing. At least I could carry on with music, look at Stevie! (no pun intended)

12. How old is too old?

No age is too old, as long as you have style and grace. You don’t become old you just become vintage. Vintage is good.

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Family, kids, hopefully still producing or dabbling in music. I can’t wait to become a father, I’m going to be like Joe Jackson (rip) and make my 27 kids form a band.

14. Who¹s your hero?

My new hero right now is Muhammad Ali. I Just saw a documentary on him, and he’s such a cocky, confident, funky dude. I love watching old footage of him just taunting journalists or other boxers, a true legend.

15. What¹s your favourite colour?

My favorite color is Green, my sign is Leo, my favorite fruit is grapes, my favorite pastime is going to the movies.

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

Well that’s an wide subject, but if I really had to choose one right now it would be

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Madonna of course, although I enjoy quite a few Metallica songs, Madonna takes over especially with her first album. Jellybean Benitez’s production is amazing.

18. What¹s your most hated vice?

Drugs. Ruining people’s lives and your own for 30 minutes of high time…Don’t like that.

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

Roger Troutman, the talkbox king, has a tragic story. He was killed by his brother (who killed himself on the spot) out of jealousy. He had such a great career, perfected the whole talkbox thing and made it an art. It’s weird because I feel I have something to do with the death of my own idol. Just a little while before he died, something like 2 weeks before, I wanted to get in touch with Roger and I got the contact for his brother Larry Troutman by mistake. I talked to him on the phone and he seemed a bit angry that I wasn’t looking for him. Maybe all the years of Roger being in the spotlight and the jealousy pilled up slowly and I was the trigger… It was literally 2 weeks after! Hopefully it’s not all my fault.

20. What are the top three live shows you¹ve seen in your life?

Bootsy Collins at the Metropolis in Montreal, what a memorable show… I was 16 at the time and I remember him starting the show with a cape and his back to the crowd for a complete song as the intro. He turned around during the second song and people lost it. I have a picture with him from that show. I followed him to this hotel to get my bass signed, which I also still have up on my wall.

Kanye West, in 2005 I think, and it was at The Forum in London. That was back when John Legend was playing keyboards for him. I think that’s the last true hip hop show I saw. Just pure energy and hunger. The crowd was really into it and throwing the typical English “Booooo” sound around, which is a sign of appreciation.

Steely Dan at the Montreal Jazz Festival a couple of years ago. I went alone with Dave’s father and we had a grand time. I couldn’t believe how good Donald Fagen still sounded and how much attitude and sense of humor he has. Their band was really tight and the drummer they had was incredible. Sounded just like the record, no Motifs or Phantoms on stage.

A while back we put up a Guide to the Best Festivals in Toronto and Montreal this summer. It took a little while to get the full shoot up with it, but here it is.

Kira Crugnale took the snaps, and made the sexy photo spread. click the photo below to see it in all it’s glory.

Credits:

Photographer: Kira Crugnale

Hair: Caitlin Cullimore

Makeup: Ashley Koehler

Stylist: Andrea Leigh

Assist: Mica Le John

Produced By: PinkMafia

Do you remember when there was a Jungle Room at every Rave? Probably not, it’s a post 30 thing. In any case, a couple years ago we were all wondering when Dub Step was gonna come back. And by comeback, we mean when it was gonna stop being a gross underground gutter punk thing in nasty goth fat pants, poo dreads and street dogs doing crank in stinky warehouses. Then we saw Diplo insert the Dub Step tip at CiRCA in between A Milli remixes. And there it was. Half time DnB + double time Hip Hop. Heavy bass. We waited with baited breath for our unnamed hero to emerge from the wreckage of those fat pants and take it mainstream. And just as the fixed queer uptown assholes who never could make the jump from 90s hip hop to electro almost ruined the resurgence of dub, from the ashes rose Rusko. And we’ve been thankful ever since. Finally O.M.G is the dubby album every owner of a vagina has been waiting for. And bonus just in time for the summer. -Anna Von

Rusko is to music what Bowzer is to Mario Land: a threat to your life and his shake-shattering moves make you sweat beats. With the release of his debut album O.M.G.! (Mad Decent Records), the Leeds-born DJ/producer is the coveted king of dubstep. O.M.G.! is fifty seven minutes of raw, thrash banger fun.  Cover to cover it carries rarities from dancehall to chillwave, and the production makes triganometry look like apple sauce.

Leading track and epic single, “Woo Boost” nails the classics of his genre and the mélange communion of hip hop, reggae and techno rampage through the echos of house music.  A lyrical overture, and hands down THE top track of the album, “Hold On”, features Dirty Projectors leading lady, Amber Coffman. Synergy, right? “Rubadub Shakedown”, adds to the fang-gushingly braises, fall-off-the-bone delicious, never-wash-that-t-shirt sort of awesome first side.  Dope friend repertoire aside, the album is way detailed. Cruise control and Lead foot. Horns, woodwinds and whole lotta fuzz.

Jazzy “Dial My Number” recklessly drops the bass momentum, numbing seamlessly with signature grime lathered, “I Love You”.  ”Kumon Kumon” pinches Jungle roots, and the vibe totally has an ironic touch. Popular ghetto rapper, Gucci Mane throws down on a B side and as the album’s finale, “District Line” lands you safely in a pool of neon oblivion.  A nostalgic toast to the dobbington and the dance floor, O.M.G.! is an instant classic. Just shy of experimental, Rusko goes beyond the surface of his reigning territory, challenging the boundaries of his castle.  With a summer packed full of festivals, he returns to Toronto August 14 and Montreal August 15 for Hard Fest. Let’s Rumble, yes?

Off the island of Montreal, next to the famous fun-park “La Ronde,” Piknic Electronik is located in a miniature island-paradise getaway. Piknic Electronik is one of those few summer-long events that puts Montreal on the map. A friend of mine who is a party maniac invited me last summer to join her in this “Piknic” experience. She made it sound like a dream come true: a club atmosphere in the afternoon, with the sun baking on your bare-back (because most people are in their bathing suits) and fruity alcoholic beverages in everyone’s hands- unfortunately, I never had the chance to go. At the time, I figured that she was overexaggerating this phenomenon in the ungodly hour of the afternoon.

When I arrived on its opening day on Sunday, May 24th, I was astonished by how accurate my crazy raver friend was. For a whole year, I thought it was just the hard-alcohol talking- it was unbelievable how true every word she said was.

Starting at 2 o’clock in the afternoon, the subway doors open and an army of party-dressed, pierced and tattooed “Piknicers” stampede towards their long-awaited Sunday home where they are welcomed with open arms, electro music and beautiful people into this island resort.

Photo: Piknic Electronik Archive: 2009

Accessible by bike, metro, car or even boat, Piknic Electronik is the complete opposite of Alcatraz prison- according to the website, it is “unifying, positive and family-oriented.” Not only can people bring food and alcohol with them- as long as their is no glass- but there are wonderful venues for delicious alcoholic beverages. I had an “Amarula Mango”, two of them actually, they were out-of-this world.

According to one of the founders of Piknic Electronik, Nicholas Cournoyer, “Piknic Electronik was created to bring Montrealers’ together on a hot summer day. We wanted to have a place where people could bring food and drinks, enjoy nature and dance to electronic music.” Cournoyer’s goal is to popularize the world of electronic music by having an outdoor showroom for artists to share their talent with the Piknicers.

Photo: MSTRKRFT Piknic Electronik Archive: 2009

The whole event was out-of-this-universe, never before have I seen such large amount of happy people dancing and sweating away in the scorching sun on a church/lazy-Sunday afternoon. People were sprawled out and sitting on towels, on grass and on benches laughing, eating and sharing love among themselves- creating memories that will linger forever in the mind. One person I spoke with told me that during the summer, the only reason she gets through the week is to come relax and vibe at the Piknic.  The atmosphere is so welcoming, making this place such a hot-spot to make new friends, meet people of the opposite sex (and hook up on the dancefloor or in the bushes) or simply just to have a personalized spiritual experience by enjoying nature and dancing until the point of exhaustion.

This area is like a natural-habitat for humans, a small space surrounded by water, plains of grass, forest areas and waterfalls! Yes, Piknic Electronik isn’t only a place to drink, smoke, and enjoy all the eye-candy, but it is a place where one can just become one with nature. I spent a good hour dunking my legs in the water and meditating on a rock inside a small waterfall, greeting the passing people as they came and went.

Maybe it’s the summer talking, but I haven’t realized how many beautiful women lived in Montreal until I came to Piknic. Everyone was half-naked. Woman were walking around in bras or bathing suits and most men were shirtless. Almost everyone had a tattoo and it was so interesting just observing all the different types of designs and art-work on people’s bodies.

Photo: Piknic Electronik Archive: 2009

The partying was intense. People were vibing, shaking to the electro beats, smiling and raving. I was amazed at how a club-like atmosphere in the afternoon is so different from ones at night. For one, the men weren’t “alpha-males” competing with each other over woman and defending their “territories.” Everyone was doing what they wished and acted or dressed in whatever ways they wish- and were accepted my the general tribe of Piknicers.

For Lucie Lebel, this was her first time performing at Piknic Electronik. “I have been coming here for a few years and I am so excited and nervous to play here today.” For Lebel, all she wants to do is excite everyone with her music and get them “dancing and kissing on the Piknic floor.”  Cournoyer believes that the ideal thing to do with friends in the summer would be to sit around, have a few beers, enjoy the beauty of nature and to celebrate life with dance: and that’s what Piknic Electronik is. A place where no matter who you are, how you look, or where you come from, you can unite as one spiritual, sexual, holistic being- just looking to enjoy the world and share it with others.

Words: David Adelman

Piknic electronic is every Sunday until labor Day long Weekend at Metro Parc. Metro stop: Jean Drapeau, $10 to get in. For more info on this summer’s lineup, CLICK HERE.

I am a proud Canadian. It is a distinct pulse that runs through my veins where ever I travel to, be it in the True North Strong and Free or even in the Land of the Free.  Quite recently, my free spirit has travelled with me to Montreal, “Room to Make it Real” and Atlantic City, “Always Turned On”.  Walking through both downtown cores, equally provided excitement and oh la la, but the air in both places felt very different from one another.  The air in Montreal is filled with the sound of Assassin’s Tango played on a solo violin with the smells of cuisine from all over the world dancing around each other.  The air in Atlantic City, smells like succulent seafood, sweet and fresh with the compliment of fried dough.  As I hear the sound of my gladiator sandals tap the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, simultaneously recognize the sounds of my 5 inch heels clack along Montreal’s rue Crescent.  It’s amazing, only an hour plane ride away and the salt air that clings heavy on my tanning skin, makes me feel as though I am at least an ocean away.

Like Pandora’s Box, both skylines tantalize the eye as to what’s to come.  Just waiting to be discovered and experienced, a playground for all your senses.

The sign of Atlantic City holds true that it is a city that is “Always Turned On!”

When I lived in Montreal, a million years ago, I worked at a tiny spot called Jai Bar and on Sundays they did a night called NEON. It was mostly just me behind the bar, a local DJ named Tiga on decks and a few guys who threw the night, one of those guys was John Hatz, and that little Sunday night went on to be one of the most influential dance music party’s since the rave days in Montreal.

This Friday, NEON is turning 11 years old, and they’re throwing a big bash with Toronto’s JFK (MSTRKRFT) and St. Mandrew alongside local, DJ Cherry Cola at Studio Just For Laughs 2109 St. Laurent Blvd. Founder John Hatz looks back on over a decade of NEON and shares a little wisdom on what makes a banger from a dud.

Knee Socks Beat Cleavage:  How did the idea for NEON come about? What was it exactly that made you want to start throwing parties?

John Hatz: Well Tiga & I co owned a small record shop called DNA where we were into minimal techno, electro house & new school electro – which was Dopplerefekt, DMX Crew, David Guetta, Hell, Anthony Rother, Kittin & The Hacker etc. We were at the end of minimal hard techno + after hours where things had become a little boring (in our opinion) & formulaic, there was no glam, no conversation, no songs – everything seemed to dark & ominous, we wanted something where people could dance on bars + get drunk again, so NEON was born. We teamed up with long time friend & designer Justin Dallegret, who came up with the name I Love NEON & we started doing events. Since we were all graphic designers & visual artists we tried to build something around this new sound that integrated visuals + motion graphics, something that had a different look each time you went.  We did some small nights with Thomas Von Party & Tiga DJing and one day the sound we were all into just blew up internationally and NEON got hot – since then it’s been on. Over the years Tiga dropped out of the company to devote time to his own music career so Mark Dillon stepped in to take over bookings.  Over the next 10 years we worked and produced some great events. In 2008 – we merged with HIGH FOOD – another local promoters & started doing live acts as well as parties, then last year we hit our biggest amount of shows to date, doing 50 shows – this year we’ll do 80.

KSBC: How has it changed in over a decade?

JH: Wow – when we started I didn’t have email – that gives you a huge idea right there, things came and went – genres, people, bars, clubs, concert halls, pretty insane. It has changed a lot and not at all – full cycle from minimal to maximal & back with the sounds. With Facebook & Twitter, cell phones & texting, everything is direct to client now, and people know things a lot faster since the source is the internet not little music shops. When a party is good – people text each other + it gets better – when you have a lemon, people text each other and tell them to stay away – I think the biggest difference besides how the music has changed is that, how the “fan” can really influence the outcome of an event because of how many people that one person can reach.

Photo: Lucas Shumacher

For us – we’re still operating under the same mandate – makes sure the room looks sexy + the sound is good – use interesting venues + work hard, and people will still come & they still do – 90% of our events are still sold out or close to selling out. People come to our events to dance & forget about life, that  will never change, and as long as theirs that one constant – we’ll keep on going strong.

Photo: Lucas Shumacher

KSBC: What are some of the best NEON moments you can remember from the past  11 years?

JH: Wow, so many, was a fun ride, but the best moments were watching a room fill up, hearing your favourite DJ, listening to Tiga play for hours… My ultimate favourite night was TIGA + JORI HULLKONEN in 2002 at the old sat, Jordan Dare at Voyeur & NEON 2001- present, most of all the music, we’re fortunate to have been there for the beginging of many musical movements, we witnessed RAVE, MINIMAL TECHNO, DRUM N BASS & ELECTRO.

Hearing Waldorf’s FASHIONIST on a dance floor for the first time, hearing FISHERPOONER’s first album, hearing MISS KITTIN’s Stock Exchange, all first moments I will never forget, great soundtracks & even better memories…. Lastly I’ve met some of the most interesting people ever, that I would have never gotten to meet if it wasn’t for NEON. For all that I guess Im pretty lucky. Why do I still want more?

KSBC: If you had unlimited resources, who would be your dream artist or dream NEON?

JH: Aphex Twin, Jeff Mills, Autechre, I would take chances on old school artists more, now that times have changed a lot of people don’t know who they are but they shaped everything…. Also would do more visuals – more physical transformations to the rooms, create a crazy physical environment where people could interact with art & technology. Really fuck with peoples heads to make the experience as surreal as possible. Again people come to events to forget, to take a few hours off  & dance, so I would just do more of the same but do it top top quality + having unlimited resources would mean I would not have to compromise on my vision.

KSBC: What’s next for NEON?

JH: Not sure – tough question, we’re doing more real live shows & would like to be viewed as a legitimate show promoter & not a club promoter, also would like to integrate art & design more into each event, something were not doing as much as we used too. I would like to work on our festival,  I would also like to put NEON on the road & do packages for other markets. Generally I would like to re define NEON & find its new direction, to be honest I don’t know – but these things just happen when they happen. The natural progression is to simplify & generalize the events, but Im sure Ill find a much more complicated painful way to grow.

All photos by Karel Chladek from 2010, photos by Lucas Shumacher from NEON’s of the past.

Vancouver’s You Say Party! We Say Die! Are touring across the Great White North as I type this. They’ve been gracious enough to do a Tour Diary for us as they traverse their home country after a month in the USA! USA! USA!. As a side note, they take really nice photos and even if the first post is a day late (apparently there is no Wi-Fi north Barrie) it was worth every minute we sat here nail-biting yesterday. Please enjoy liberally.

Becky, Krista and Sharlene Chiu from MTV doing a cooking show at Trevor (our manager) and Maude’s place in Toronto.

Henri Fabergé becomes a mic stand for Mac of Makeout Videotape, who opened the show at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto and will be touring with us all the way back to Vancouver.

Kip from the Horseshoe is a great sound guy who we’ve had the pleasure of working with many times. It was great to come back after several years; probably one of the best shows we’ve ever played.

Lake break somewhere on Highway 17 during the long drive from Montreal to Sudbury where we were spending the night. Nice to be back in Canada after nearly a month in the US.

Enjoying a low-key Easter Sunday night off with our friends from Sudbury at the Townehouse. Had some great pizza next door at the Laughing Buddha earlier.

We love Ramone! He lets us crash at his place whenever we pass through Sudbury. Good dog.