The Arkells

I took a chance and went to The Arkells' show. Going into it I had just listened to their songs maybe once each, they were cool, I liked them. BUT, after the concert finished, I was a converted hardcore fan. Great energy was never lacking. A really cool local band from Hamilton, it's great to discover some people that actually love their music and love to perform. An awesome light rock band, their songs are filled with killer guitars. The only down fall is that each song is a little similar, there's not tons that seperate them but that may just be because of my new ears!
Download, Ballad of Hugo Chavez, John Lennon, Tragic Flaw

Misery - Maroon 5

I don't think any words could describe my excitement about this single release. A long awaited event, Misery has lived up to my high standards for Maroon 5. An upbeat, soulful and happy song. I cannot wait for the video!
ENJOY!

Lissie - When I'm Alone

A wonderfully passionate and mellow song with a visually alluring video. Illinois native this girl may start to take the world by storm. Lissie's voice is about as natural is it can get and it is beautiful to hear.
Check out her cover of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance and Kid Cudi's Pursuit to Happiness

Said The Whale

An old find that was recently revisited, Said The Whale is a beautifully complete Canadian band. What strikes me about their music is their connection to their country. With songs like B.C. Orienteering, Out on the Shield and Emerald Lake AB, Canada is written all over their music. Songs about discovering nature and the land this band is extremely plesant and easy to listen to. From upbeat Camillo (the magician) to mellow and slow Curse of the Currents a connection is felt and emotion is put into every song. A great addition to any Canadian Playlist, this band makes me proud to say that Canada makes great music.
They're playing a free show this friday at Yonge Dundas square with K-OS and Sloan, I can't wait!

Tokyo Police Club - Champ

Being from Toronto I had my fingers crossed for this new release from Tokyo Police Club. This album has a grounded sound and is a perfect example of indie rock-pop. Great guitars and drums hold this album together as well as the original and often cute lyrics. A downfall of their other album is avoided this time, each song has its' own sound and can stand on its' own. Dave Monks, the lead singer has kept his recognisable voice which is a relief. This is a great, easy, effortless listen for indie rock fans, definetly check it out! A great album to rock out and relax to.
Four Lambs out of Five!
Download : Favourite food, Wait Up, Bambi, Gone, Big Difference

LIGHTS - Second Go

Cute music video from LIGHTS. A great song and a fun, colourful video!

Future Breeds - Hot Hot Heat

For me this was a very anticipated release for the summer from Hot Hot Heat. Being a huge fan of their previous work (Talk To Me Dance With Me, Bandages, Middle of No Where) three years seemed like way too long. Their sound on this new release, Future Breeds felt like a more mature brother of their previous cd's. Simliar, but yet different. Energy isn't lacking in any song, especially in one of my favourites, Imploisonatic. Drums, guitar and keyboard come together to create an upbeat pop/rock. Steve Bays' voice is still the same, the loveable and instantly recognizable sing-talk. It might take many listens to be able to hum these ones and know them well, but every listen will be enjoyable. Lacking the "stuck in your head" element you may not be singing these songs all day, but you will be thinking about them, and wishing you were listening to them. A groovy, rock, electronic soundtrack, this is a summer must.
Download : Imploisonatic, JFK's LSD, What is Rational?, Times A Thousand