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3/26/2010

Evanescence song goes Platinum


“Bring me to Life” from the Grammy Award winning band Evanescence has been certified platinum. The single was released on July 18, 2006 and was from their debut album Fallen on Wind-Up Records.
Released in April 2003, Fallen has sold over 15 million copies worldwide. Evanescence received two Grammy Awards that year for Best New Artist and Best Hard Rock Performance for Bring Me to Life.
Amy Lee, the front woman of Evanescence, confirmed recently that Evanescence is going back into the studio to work on their third album with renowned Grammy Award winning producer Steve Lillywhite.
“I can’t explain how excited I am to make this record,” said Amy Lee. “Over the past year and a half these songs have become the center of my life, and I can’t wait to hear what they grow into in the studio. I think our sound is evolving into something that will surprise people, in a very good way. I feel, as always, that growth can be an incredible, limitless thing if you let it. I never want to make the same album twice.”
Their new album is slated for a Fall 2010 release.
Posted by: Taryn McElheran

Photo courtesy of Wind Up Records

100 Monkeys at Tattoo Rock Parlour


March 14, 2010 was the first time I’d ever stepped foot into The Tattoo Rock Parlour on Queen St. West in Toronto. The lighting was low, the music was loud and the crowd was just right. There were no mosh pits, no dirty drugs, and no crazy fans trying to push to get to the front. The overall vibe was cool, laid back and the excitement was through the roof. Every single person in the room was waiting for 100 Monkeys. The band that hails all the way from L.A., who I’m fairly sure hasn’t had any Toronto or Canadian (besides Vancouver) dates since their creation, were the one thing they were all waiting for. The anticipation was high.
And you could feel it.
Now, we all know that 100 Monkeys aren’t exactly mainstream, nor will they really ever be. With their unique sound and stage presence, this is one band that you won’t see win a radio award for most played song.
Nonetheless, they are the most original, unique and inspiring group of musicians I’ve heard in a very long time.
The band consists of five members: Jerad, Jackson Rathbone (yes ladies, he IS the one and only Jasper Hale as seen in the ever popular Twilight), the two Bens (Ben G and Ben J) and finally Uncle Larry. Each of the guys bring a distinctly different personality to the stage but somehow manage to co-mingle and become synchronized as one when it comes to their music. It’s something that can’t be described. I was impressed beyond belief and frankly, once the music started, you forgot who Jackson was and you just heard the music.
I was blown out of the water. Their music on their current CD Grape (Seedless), as well as their former EPs, do not do them justice. Don’t get me wrong, the music on the CDs are fantastic but they have this aura on stage and it’s unbelievably compelling and alluring. Their stage presence is in a league of its own and even when you could see the exhaustion in their eyes, they still carried on as if they had all the energy in the world.
With the set list including Ugly Girl, Gus, Looker, The Monkey Song, Wings On Fire, and Orson Brawl , they played a wide variety of songs that made you want to dance and sway to the music. Ben G has an an incredible voice that’s powerful and magnetic, while Jerad’s suave style gives him that cool edge. Jackson’s personality and voice wouldn’t be considered as normal but all the same it was extremely charming. Ben J is quiet and laid back, but don’t let that fool you and Uncle Larry, who was adopted as the “Monkeys Uncle” was yet another element in this very unique band.
What caught my attention was the fact that they alternated instruments for each song. You would find Ben G playing the lead guitar one song, and next he’d be on bongo and chime duty. Jackson was all over the place playing guitar, bass, drums, keys, and finally the trumpet. There was no end to the talent that seeped out of this group. If counted correctly, by the end of the show there were eight different instruments - yes, eight.
The final thing I’d like to point out about themselves as a group, is their improv skills. At every venue they perform at the band asks the audience what they should sing about, and who should sing it. The topic this time around? Dental floss. Jackson was chosen to sing the blues about dental floss. With not even a minute to spare, he started belting out a song that went on for a good five minutes. I think that anybody who can do improv, and do it well, has talent. To be able to do it in front of an audience, and create music to go along with the words, is pure genius. I think that it was one of the best parts of the night!
Overall, the night was a success. Maybe the success at this year’s CMW showcase will show them how passionate their Canadian fans are and will prompt them to do more shows in the Great White North!
For more information about the Tattoo Rock Parlour or 100 Monkeys please visit the following links:
http://www.tattoorockparlour.com
http://www.100monkeysmusic.com
http://www.myspace.com/these100monkeys

For a video of The Dental Floss song please visit my YouTube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xK7elYie_cY
Written by: Taryn McElheran Originally posted March 15, 2010 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

photo courtesy of Taryn McElheran

Indie Pick - Bury the Bully


I came across this band Bury the Bully (originating from Toronto) while driving to another band’s show with one of my friends. We had talked about them once before but I never really gave them a listen until that night. After hearing a few tracks, I quickly snatched up their CD lifedeath&wonder from her and ever since then, I’ve been listening to it on a regular basis.

Now, I’m not entirely sure what made me tune into their unique style, but I knew what I liked, and I definitely thought there was something special about Bury the Bully. It’s hard to decide why I like them exactly but it’s probably a tie between the lyrics and the lead singer, Rich McPherson’s, sultry voice that hooked me. I’d be lying if I didn’t say I’m a sucker for a sexy voice and lyrics that actually mean something other than a mash-up of random words and phrases.
With their sound reminding me of Jimmy Eat World and Jack’s Mannequin, but still uniquely their own, I feel that they deserved to be heard by more than just my ears. They’re not like any other band I’ve come across in awhile and their lyrics are solid and have great meaning. There’s been one too many times I’ve listened to a band and wondered what the heck they were saying and what’s the purpose of their words.
Bury the Bully’s first album has been out since 2007, but rumour has it that they will be releasing their sophomore album sometime in 2010!

Intrigued? Check them out at their myspace: www.myspace.com/burythebully

Their first album lifedeath&wonder is available on itunes.

Written By: Taryn McElheran
(Originally posted on Mar 1, 2010 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

photo courtesy of Bury the Bully

Beauty Review: David Babaii for WildAid


As well as David Babaii for WildAid hair products being all-natural, these beauty products are healthy for the environment and healthy for you. With too many ingredients to list, I narrowed it down to the following: rich Cupuacu butter from the South American Amazon, super volumizing volcanic ash from the Vanuatu islands of the South Pacific, Blue Algae, and Polynesian White Ginger, just to name a few.
Their products are free of sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, and animal products. And of course, free from all animal testing.
When I first used theHydrating ShampooandConditioner, and the Bohemian Beach Spray, I was amazed. It left my fine hair light, soft and clean. There’s no definite way to explain it, but instead of the residue that some shampoos and conditioners leave behind after washing, David Babaii’s left my hair feeling super clean and healthy.
I’ve always had issues keeping my hair looking healthy instead of it greasy and unkempt. Finding products that don’t weigh it down has always been a challenge for me. From what I find working in retail, I’ve noticed that the majority of people stick with a shampoo that they like (if they ever find it). I have to switch mine up almost every time because I find something wrong with it.
I was pleased when the shampoo and conditioner left my hair feeling soft and luxurious. The smell is pleasant and the lather was nice and rich. Just by feeling the texture of the shampoo and conditioner you can tell it’s natural compared to a lot of the other brands out there these days. The color was neutral and texture thick. You only need squeeze the size of a quarter to get enough lather.
Now for the Bohemian Beach Spray , I found it a little overwhelming. It works fine for me at first but by the end of the day it left my hair a little greasy. When I used it on my natural curls though I thought it was more manageable and kept the curls from going frizzy.
Overall, the products have definitely impressed me. Being the animal lover that I am, it pleased me to see the effort and commitment that has been put towards WildAid. With actress Kate Hudson on board with this great cause, let’s hope more companies will follow suite and leave animals out of the picture.
For more information on David Babaii for WildAid please check out the website www.db4wildaid.com
To purchase the products mentioned and for others please visit The Shopping Channel
Written by: Taryn McElheran (Originally posted Dec 2009 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)
photo courtesy of The Shopping Channel

CD Review: The Show Must Go - Hedley


Returning for their third consecutive album, titled The Show Must Go, British Columbia’s Hedley ditches their known edgy-pop vibe for a more traditional pop. Something Hedley fans can be familiar with but something that’s also a little bit different than anything else they’ve done in the past.
Lead singer Jacob Hoggard goes back to his Canadian Idol days in a sense, using his raw vocals that got him noticed and into the final three back in 2005. He uses his unique and powerful vocals to make his mark on all the new songs on the album. He channels his uniqueness and turns it into something that everybody can’t help but love.
The first two colourful tracks on the album are their first and second singles off the album. Cha-ching and Don’t Talk to Strangers helps the band vocalize their views about the commercialization and obsession with fame these days as well as the ever popular “cougars” – those obsessive older women who love to seduce the younger generation of males.
All songs have a steady beat and strong instrumentals. Guitarist Dave Rosin has amazing finger skills on the guitar and improves every time I hear him play. He has a way of engaging the audience every single time he picks up a guitar. I can’t help but smile when I hear him play.
Other songs boast an almost reggae like sound. Songs such as Friendsand Shelter have a lighter drumbeat and a stronger emphasis on the guitar. The lyrics are upbeat and happy but come with a message of friendship and being there through anything.
No CD wouldn’t be complete with out a few power ballads and Amazing and Perfect are just that – power ballads. Both leave you with chills and a realization that everybody can relate to the songs more than they care to admit. Perfect is one of my favourite songs and I must admit, I often have it on repeat!
The last song I would like to mention, purely on the fact that it’s unconventional in today’s music world, is called Sweater Song. Pretty much written in one big grouping, the song portrays the story of a musician going away on tour and leaving his sweater behind for the one he loves. The song itself lacks a chorus, bridge or anything else that resembles the traditional structure of a song.
All in all this is the best album that has yet to be released by Hedley. It’s soulful, the lyrics are full of compassion and love, and the overall powerful sound is almost overwhelming – almost.
Seeing Hedley grow up throughout the years has been somewhat of an honour. Seeing them go from a band struggling to get out of the shadow of Canadian Idol and touring non-stop for months on end to producing a third album and headlining in their first stadium tour in the spring of 2010. It always amazes me what musicians/bands can accomplish when they set their mind and give all their heart.
Hedley’s new album The Show Must Go is available everywhere and on itunes.
For more information on Hedley and their up-coming tour across Canada please visit: http://www.myspace.com/hedley
♫♫♫♫ (out of five)
Written by: Taryn McElheran
(Originally posted on Dec 10, 2009 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

♫ (horrible) ♫♫ (meh) ♫♫♫ (it’s okay) ♫♫♫♫ (worth the buy) ♫♫♫♫♫ (must buy)

Movie Review: New Moon

The first Twilight movie, brought a visual to what fans have been dreaming about for years after reading Stephenie Meyer’s world renown books that have caused millions of crazed female fans all over the world. With that being said, every single girl out there is now in search of a perfect “Edward” to their “Bella”. The second instalment of The Twilight Saga: New Moon, unfortunately, is based on heartbreak and trying to forget the memories of what would never be.
Bella Swan finally came to love her life in Forks, Washington. She had friends, she was a senior at Forks High School, and most importantly, she had Edward Cullen. Edward is a vampire – but that’s beside the point. He was the one person she could love with no restriction and the one who knew her inside and out. But all that changed when an incident during her birthday party at the Cullens made Edward realize that Bella doesn’t belong in his world.
Edward left Bella and her world just fell apart. New Moon> follows Bella’s trials and tribulations of life without Edward and the hope she finds when her new best friend Jacob Black, played by Lautner, comes to her rescue. But even Jake has a secret that Bella doesn’t know about – at least for the time being.
The fan-girl in me enjoyed the movie whole-heartedly. I have been a big supporter of the Twilight books before they became a world-wide sensation and the movies have been able to bring the ideas in my mind to life while leaving my imagination to wonder what the next two and final instalments will bring to the mystical world of Bella and Edward.
The first time I just enjoyed it. The second time, I began to notice a few of the technical and acting flaws that had critics cringing.
The acting itself by the lead characters Kristen Stewart (Bella) and Robert Pattinson (Edward) was better this time around than in Twilight. In the first movie I cringed at how cheesy the dialog was and at how obvious that some of the quotes were just plucked out of the book and placed in the script. Stewart herself was pretty much void of all emotion and Pattinson seemed like he wasn’t comfortable with his role as the desirable Edward Cullen.
This time around, although Stewart was still a little void of emotion, she played her character a hell of a lot better. So much so I started to actually believe her to be the part of Bella Swan, not that actor seen all over the tabloids. She impressed me a great deal more than I had anticipated.
Pattinson – who’s still as desirable as ever – seemed to be a lot more comfortable with his role than in Twilight . His emotions seemed raw instead of well-rehearsed and well-suited for his brooding vampire character that is madly in love with a mortal girl.
Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black) had very little screen time in the first movie, but the second one and onward he’s a major part in the love-triangle between him, Stewart and Pattinson. Although the 17-year-olds acting skills could be better, he definitely has potential in becoming a great actor.
As for the rest of the cast, the acting is quite solid; even though their roles in the film were insignificant, seeing as they barely had any screen time. Let’s just say I’m excited to see what they do with Eclipse when the Cullen characters, as well as the wolf-pack, become more of a significant part in the film.
Director Chris Weitz, known for his award-worthy CGI affects in The Golden Compass, did a much (let me emphasis MUCH) better job on the second movie than first director Catharine Hardwickdid in Twilight. His interpretation was a lot stronger and his vision a lot clearer than that of Hardwick’s style.
While saying that though, there were definitely a few moments that had me wishing that Summit Entertainment hadn’t skimped out on the special affects – and we all know it was Summit not the director’s choice, whether you want to believe it or not.
The most noticeable affect that had me thrown off was the water scene when actor Kristen Stewart (Bella) jumped off the cliff into the ocean. While the jump was solid the water itself wasn’t. It didn’t look real to me and that just seemed weird. The affects of the wolf pack themselves was actually pretty impressive. While they could have looked a little more realistic than they were, they still gave us the impression that they were lifelike.
To sum it all up, New Moon was definitely a movie for the fans. Technically it could have been better, but the story was strong, as was the loyalty of the fans. Something tells me it could have been the worst movie of 2009 (which it wasn’t…by far) and it still would have generated a whopping $140.2 million at the box office in its opening weekend.
So now that “the wolf’s outta the bag”, the countdown has officially started for The Twilight Saga: Eclipse, due out in late June of 2010.
☺☺☺ (out of five)
Written by: Taryn McElheran
(originally posted on Dec 1st, 2009 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

☺ (not worth anything) ☺☺ (maaaybe rent-worthy) ☺☺☺ (theatre worthy –at least once) ☺☺☺☺ (must see) ☺☺☺☺☺ (must see if your life depended on it)

CD Review: CKAS- Faber Drive


When Faber Drive (FD)’s first single G-get up and Dance hit the airwaves, there were more than a few sceptical fans out there (a.k.a. Facebook ) who felt that the band changed their sound and became a little more mainstream than they’d wished. Before they had even heard the album most were critisizing and judgmental - which, to be honest, pissed me off.
It irritates me when I hear people judge something before they know whole story, or have heard the whole album. I understand people have opinions, but at least keep them to yourself until you’ve had the chance to hear what they’ve got! Every band/writer/musician has a right to grow and expand their horizons, so what makes FD any different?
What most fans don’t understand though is the fact that like every band, while wishing to some extent to stay the same, also need room grow and test the waters to create new masterpieces. It’s exactly what FD did, and I am happy to say they’ve succeeded in creating a fantastic new album that any artist would be proud of.
With a mix of new and old, FD created a sound that was unique to them but are also able to please their old and loyal fans while bringing in new. With songs like By Your Side, You and I Tonight and I’ll Be There, listeners will be able to enjoy their more traditional sound – if you care to call it that.
But on the opposite end of this musical spectrum, songs such as their first single G-get up and Dance, or Give Him Up and Just What I Needed you’re able to hear the experimental sounds when they use the synthesizer, and keys to produce a different vibe. I think it’s the use of these instruments - to an extent - are what most fans aren’t used to when listening to the new tracks.
Overall, you can tell by just listening to the new music and lyrics that they have grown up as individuals and as a band. Going through a few ups and downs as well as the switch-up of some new members has given FD the strength to create a great album with some powerful tunes and memorable music.
Being a follower of Faber Drive for quite awhile now, my expectations were high because I knew they could do it – and they did! I’m thoroughly impressed and I can’t wait to hear these new songs when they hit the road in November/December to promote their new album.
Can’t Keep a Secret is available in stores across the country as well asitunes
For more information about Faber Drive’s new album and tour dates, visit: http://www.myspace.com/faberdrive

♫♫♫♫ 1/2 (out of five)
Written by: Taryn McElheran
(originally posted on Nov 17, 2009 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

CD Review: 1UP - Illscarlett


For those who are comforted by things that are familiar, Illscarlett fans will be happy with the band’s brand new album 1UP!

Although there was new music and new lyrics, the overall sound of the band has stayed the same as heard on 2007’s All Day With It and 2006’s EPdemic EP. In that fact I was happy to hear that they stayed true to themselves, I was a little bored sometimes and found myself either fast-forwarding through a song or skipping entirely.
The reggae beats that are so familiar to their sound intertwines through the whole album mixed with a solid drumbeat, steady voices and acoustic guitars. It’s their familiarity that brought me to listen to their new album but also had me tuning them out, to a certain degree.
Their opening track and single “Take it for Granted” is a song I seem to have heard more than once these days, which isn’t good for a band whose set on setting themselves apart from the rest. But nonetheless I moved to the beat and would find myself singing the chorus hours later.

“Funky Rep.” and “Milkshakes and Razorblades” are definitely dance worthy and as a person who enjoys the slower songs, appreciated the tracks “Sorry”, “Can’t Sleep”, and “Freezing”. I think I’ve always been keen on any song that uses an acoustic guitar as an instrument of choice.
This Mississauga, Ont. band co-produced their new album with Grammy Award-winning producer Robert Carranza (Bjork) in Los Angeles after working on All Day With It in the same city with producer Matthew Wilder (No Doubt, Natalie Imbruglia).
Let’s hope that with IllScarlett’s meaningful lyrics and funky tunes will keep the loyal fans satisfied and new ones knocking on their door and buying their album.
1UP! can be found on itunes and in stores across Canada.
to get more info on Illscarlett please visit: http://www.myspace.com/illscarlett
♫♫♫ (out of five)
Written by: Taryn McElheran
(Originally posted on Nov 15, 2009 at www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

photo courtesy of Sony Music Canada

'Beside You' Tour hit up St. Catharines

All I have to do is think back to the Reverb in Toronto on a cold December night back in 2006 to remember the way things used to be. When the main band on stage had no more than forty people in the audience and the music was beyond amazing. When their bone-chilling harmonies and heartfelt lyrics filled the dreary club and make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end. But even then, when nobody even knew who they were, I could tell that Marianas Trench were going to make a name for themselves.
On October 6th, 2009 at the bar formerly known as Big Buck’s in St. Catharines, the same band I witnessed in 2006 along with opening acts, Montreal’s The New Cities and B.C.’s Carly Rae Jepsen, played to a sold out crowd in a venue that was entirely too small for the occasion.
Overall my experience was mediocre compared to other shows. To kick things off, the evening started off on a series of delays. Doors opened over an hour late which pushed the show to start an hour later as well. Seeing as it was all-ages and it being a school night, numerous parents (and kids) were not impressed.
The venue itself is oddly shaped and has the main stage situated in a corner and not enough space for a crowd. Suited more for a lounge type bar, it wasn’t appropriate for this type of show. Having been to this venue for previous events like Scenefest, I knew coming into this that it wasn’t going to be comfortable. Since I arrived later than anticipated, my friends and I were forced to be situated in the 19+ area with a poll as our view.
But alas, the show must go on –and it did. Although the view wasn’t exactly ideal, it’s a good thing my ears were in fine working form.
The first time I heard Carly Rae Jepsen sing live was on a Canada-wide tour with the top three finalists of 2007’s Canadian Idol. She was youthful and innocent with a bucketful of potential. Seeing her perform almost two years later, it was nice to witness her growth as a musician and to hear her own songs opposed to those written by others.
Her voice can only be described as eclectic. The best way I can describe her style of music and lifestyle is Boho-chic. Her laid back voice is refreshing and can amuse anybody who listens to her. It’s soothing and easy to listen to but can also get you on your feet to dance. She keeps the crowd going and excited with random stories and talk as she advances with her set.
With three singles (Bucket, Sour Candy and Tug of War) on the radio and a fresh sounding new album, the third runner up of Canadian Idol is slowing gaining momentum on the Canadian charts. I look forward to hearing more of what she’s got.

The New Cities
were a relatively small, unknown band from Montreal until they got their break touring with B.C.’s Hedley in 2008. The six member band plays music with an intense electric-pop sound and a beat you can’t help but dance and sing along to. With songs like Hypertronic Superstar, Leaders of the Misled and radio popular Dead End Countdown, they had the crowd dancing and singing along to lyrics about Hollywood stars, life and drama.
The lead singer, David Brown’s voice is something that can be heard in multiple
I found myself getting into the music just as much as anybody else. The benefit of not being able to see the band is being able to pay more attention to the music. It’s a big plus to see that a band can still sound good without playing up their stage presence. From past experiences though, I knew for a fact that The New Cities members were always energetic to the very end of their set and always knew how to pump up a crowd. Their French accent always added to the charm and made everyone fall in love with them as well as their music.
Another perk to being in the 19+ area was being close to the VIP section. I was able to get a good look at the band and get a feel for who they were. From the beginning of the night Marianas Trench gave me a different vibe from the rest. I felt that even though they were upbeat and happy onstage, offstage they were a little cold and a little distant. Through my observations and past experience with the band, their mood really depends on the day. I was a little thrown off when the lead singer, Josh Ramsay refused photos with young fans. Fans are what make the band, so why refuse them?
As for the music I wasn’t disappointed. The uniqueness of Josh Ramsay’s voice mixed with the rest of the members can only be described as amazing. I have never heard a group of guys sound so in sync with each other. Ever since I heard them for the very first time at the Reverb I have never been more impressed with another band’s vocals as I have been with them. Whether they sing a capella or with music they always sound their best – even when the sound system at the venue wasn’t exactly up to par.
Their pop-rock sound has been dominating the airwaves and with their sophomore album climbing up the charts they are in no way slowing down. Their singles Cross My Heart, All to Myself and their newest, Beside You along with other album hits like Celebrity Status and Sing, Sing, Marianas Trench is gaining new fans all the time while keeping current fans in complete awe.
For more information on Marianas Trench: www.myspace.com/marianastrench
For more information on The New Cities: www.myspace.com/thenewcities
For more information on Carly Rae Jephson: http://www.myspace.com/carlyraemusic

Written by: Taryn McElheran
(originally posted on Nov 15, 2009 on www.sugarcainentertainment.com)

Faber Drive, The Latency and Shiloh at the Ex!


Every time I step onto the CNE grounds memories of past years always flood back to me. From the cheerful music, boisterous laughter, colourful signs and merchandise to the sweet smell of Tiny Tom donuts and great entertainment at the Bandshell that concludes the day is something I’ve always loved.

In the past few years, I have seen amazing Canadian bands perform in front of hundreds of people. Bands such as Hedley, illScarlett and The Trews have performed on the Bandshell, gaining new fans and reigniting the old. On Aug. 30, three more great Canadian acts hit the stage.
The Latency, four boys hailing from Maple Ridge, B.C., were the first up and they didn’t do it quietly. Despite their young age (18-19), they weren’t shy and definitely knew how to work the audience. With their upbeat stage presence and near-perfect vocals, I felt their abilities as seasoned performers. I was impressed by their control but also by their ability to enjoy the crowd. A prank pulled by Faber Drive was handled rather well considering they had many fans holding signs such as “Ryan I’m 6 months pregnant”, “I love The Latency Stereos” and “Virgin Rock.”
With their charming personalities and boy-next-door good-looks – add on a few tattoos to for good measure – they are every girls dream. I think their looks add onto the appeal of being such a young band. Any band with great music is amazing on its own, but a band (especially a young band that generates a lot of young fans) that is good-looking as well is an added bonus. The more girls they have to swoon over them, the more popular they become.
As the pop/rock genre dominating the airwaves these days, their songs were pop-tastic but not the cookie-cutter you’d expect. I found that the songs were catchy to those in their tweens/teens but relatable to those who were my age (23) and older. I found their sound was sweet but not sickly, and overall, they have the potential to be a great Canadian talent in the future. With their first album just released in stores, I believe The Latency have a decent career ahead of them.
Up next was B.C.-born, Saskatchewan-raised, Shiloh. This girl may only be 16 but she has vocals that would impress anybody. I was fortunate enough to see her for the first time in Vancouver and I was blown away by how well she could control her powerful voice. Her performance at the Ex however was a little less perfect. From the husky sounds and lack-lustre actions on stage, she seemed to be battling a cold. Despite the obvious difficulties, Shiloh fought her way through to the top and gave a performance that anybody would be proud of.
Trying to edge away from the stereotypical pop image, Shiloh infuses a bit of ska and an edgy rock sound. With songs like “Operator” and “Alright”, she is a perfect role-model for all those teens out there who are insecure about who they are and what they’ll become.
Despite my age, compared to the majority of the crowd, I found myself rocking out and enjoying the music just as much as anybody else. You can’t ignore good music and meaningful lyrics and even though she is almost six years my junior, I still had a good time.
Up last was the much anticipated Faber Drive. I have been a fan of Faber Drive ever since they were known as Faber and were the no-name opening act for Hedley back in 2005. Though there were ups and downs, and multiple changes with some of their band members, in the end it was well worth it. Original members, lead singer Dave Faber and bassist Jeremy Liddle, are now flanked by newcomers, guitarist Jordan Pritchett as well as the drummer Andrew Stricko.
It’s been a while since they’ve released new music but have relied on their loyal fans to keep the momentum going. With their recent single “G-get up and Dance”, and an expected early November release for their sophomore album, Faber Drive is regaining their touring experience and having a blast. Although performing all old favourites, minus the new single, the crowd was pumped and excited to see their favourite band performing again.
One thing sticks out about the band is Faber’s voice. It’s unique in away that you can’t name another singer out there that have his distinct sound. With backup vocals of Liddle and Pritchett, they always manage to harmonize and produce something wonderful.
The one thing I liked about this show and the others I’ve been to this year with Faber Drive is the fact that I know all the words. It’s always a good sign when you can hear the audience sing along and when they stop singing, the audience continues. It gives me chills knowing so many people love them enough to know each and every single lyric to every song they have. I was pleasantly surprised when all the members except Faber left the stage to sing the original acoustic version of “Tongue Tied” called “It Ends”. The rawness of his voice and the electric guitar combined made it to be a great song. It definitely was one of my favourite moments of the night.
With the new song being released, and the album coming up, I am looking forward to see what they have in store for the future. They have gotten some bad reviews of the new song saying they’re becoming too main stream, but I believe they have a few tricks up their sleeves that will have old and new fans a like coming and rocking out once again.
For more information on Faber Drive: www.myspace.com/faberdrive
For more information on Shiloh: www.myspace.com/shilohofficial
For more information on The Latency: www.myspace.com/thelatency
Posted By: Taryn McElheran
(Originally posted on www.sugarcainentertainment.com in Sept of 09)