Raleigh
Our band of the week is a special one who is interesting in it's own way .. mostly instrumental but mixed with a couple of different singers. I love how they remind me of The Temper Trap and Modest Mouse sometimes :) Laid back tunes for sure . I would click the link to find out for yourself because all I Do not need to tell you that they are great .. you will find out on your own :) If you want to relax this is your band!!
AltCitY Calgary < facebook page link
Started By Brad Sysko Kidd and Joined by Others to bring to you some of Calgary's Music and Art industry by sharing our knowledge and experience Through Interviews with local talent, Show reviews, Band Of the Week from many genres spanning from Punk , Metal and of course Alternative. Along with other Alternative attributes this city has to offer about Art, Modelling, Tattoos and more! Artists helping artists is all we are about!
Welcome to our Look at local Calgary awesome!!
Monday, 24 February 2014
Thursday, 20 February 2014
Interview with David Khan of Scythia!!!
Dave
so I'm down for an interview
BSK
I have some questions written up for ya i just got to grab another brew and a smoke and we can get down top it?
Dave
yeah totally... get comfortable
Brad
K all good to get this fucker going! First off since you are based in Van and my readers are mostly from here in Calgary would you tell us a bit about the band ?
Dave
No we are based out of Calgary now
Moved here back in late 2012
Brad
my bad but very cool!!!
Dave
Anyways, the band started in 2008 in Vancouver as a light hearted jam band with a buddy in university. However once we started writing tunes things got more serious. We began gigging lots... too much for a home city but we didn't know or care
we eventually recorded our first album in 2009 to be released in 2010. After that we followed it up with a western Canada tour.
The line-up changed at that point as the university friends weren't looking to be full-time musicians... So we had to recruit some new musicians. Since that time, there have been another 3 releases and 7 tours
Brad
Where did you go on tour?
Dave
During the first tour, we travelled throughout BC/AB including way up north like Fort St John. The other tours have brought as far east as Quebec City and as far south as Portland, Oregon
Brad
What was your favorite spot you hit?
Dave
That's a hard one to answer because it all depends on the context and vibe of the tour. We played Noctis in 2012 here in Calgary and that was an unbelievable show. The professionalism, organization and interaction with fans/media was of the utmost quality.
In the east, Montreal has always been a great spot for us. Really cool place with actual METAL venues (i mean pillars of skulls and dark artwork) and lots of talent.
Brad
I have to say from being from Norse and Celtic descent myself I fucking love your tunes! I have a love for this kind of music.. When and why did you decide to go the way you did?
Dave
To be honest I am still trying to figure out where the inspiration came from. I've always had a fascination for medieval imagery.. Musically the inspiration for folk stuff actually came from listening to a lot of progressive metal.
Brad
some of your songs remind me of Amon Amarth or Enisferum which is rad! .. So what do you have planned for the upcoming tour ?? Ireheart told me you have a tour coming up!
Dave
yeah man! We are doing a one-week scorcher down to the USA and back to support the new album. Later this year we are heading over the pond to go play Europe for a few weeks. In 2015, we are confirmed as co-headliners for a major South American Metal Festival... Unfortunately, i can't drop more details than that at present.
Speaking of Amon Amarth... I was just listening to Twilight of the Thunder God on repeat
Brad
I am sure we will hear more when you do have more info to give .. So for my last question .. and think about this .. I know it may have something to do with swords haha .. anyway what would you do in a zombie apocalypse ??
Dave
We would clearly fetch our army of bears to guard our fortress (just outside Rocky Mountain House) as we sharpen our swords and wait for the gratuitous slaying to begin!
Brad
best answer yet! haha Thanks bro! keep me posted on shows! Cheers!
Dave
no worries.. thanks for the interview!
so I'm down for an interview
BSK
I have some questions written up for ya i just got to grab another brew and a smoke and we can get down top it?
Dave
yeah totally... get comfortable
Brad
K all good to get this fucker going! First off since you are based in Van and my readers are mostly from here in Calgary would you tell us a bit about the band ?
Dave
No we are based out of Calgary now
Moved here back in late 2012
Brad
my bad but very cool!!!
Dave
Anyways, the band started in 2008 in Vancouver as a light hearted jam band with a buddy in university. However once we started writing tunes things got more serious. We began gigging lots... too much for a home city but we didn't know or care
we eventually recorded our first album in 2009 to be released in 2010. After that we followed it up with a western Canada tour.
The line-up changed at that point as the university friends weren't looking to be full-time musicians... So we had to recruit some new musicians. Since that time, there have been another 3 releases and 7 tours
Brad
Where did you go on tour?
Dave
During the first tour, we travelled throughout BC/AB including way up north like Fort St John. The other tours have brought as far east as Quebec City and as far south as Portland, Oregon
Brad
What was your favorite spot you hit?
Dave
That's a hard one to answer because it all depends on the context and vibe of the tour. We played Noctis in 2012 here in Calgary and that was an unbelievable show. The professionalism, organization and interaction with fans/media was of the utmost quality.
In the east, Montreal has always been a great spot for us. Really cool place with actual METAL venues (i mean pillars of skulls and dark artwork) and lots of talent.
Brad
I have to say from being from Norse and Celtic descent myself I fucking love your tunes! I have a love for this kind of music.. When and why did you decide to go the way you did?
Dave
To be honest I am still trying to figure out where the inspiration came from. I've always had a fascination for medieval imagery.. Musically the inspiration for folk stuff actually came from listening to a lot of progressive metal.
Brad
some of your songs remind me of Amon Amarth or Enisferum which is rad! .. So what do you have planned for the upcoming tour ?? Ireheart told me you have a tour coming up!
Dave
yeah man! We are doing a one-week scorcher down to the USA and back to support the new album. Later this year we are heading over the pond to go play Europe for a few weeks. In 2015, we are confirmed as co-headliners for a major South American Metal Festival... Unfortunately, i can't drop more details than that at present.
Speaking of Amon Amarth... I was just listening to Twilight of the Thunder God on repeat
Brad
I am sure we will hear more when you do have more info to give .. So for my last question .. and think about this .. I know it may have something to do with swords haha .. anyway what would you do in a zombie apocalypse ??
Dave
We would clearly fetch our army of bears to guard our fortress (just outside Rocky Mountain House) as we sharpen our swords and wait for the gratuitous slaying to begin!
Brad
best answer yet! haha Thanks bro! keep me posted on shows! Cheers!
Dave
no worries.. thanks for the interview!
Monday, 17 February 2014
Band of the week -BigCity!!
BIGCITY Is our band of the week !!
I got turned onto this band not that long ago and really like them! The female vocals are really great and positive sounding :) I have been listening to their tunes on the website (link at the top) quite a bit and it puts me in a killer good mood! They are playing a mix of funk , Alternative , Reggae and Beach rock!I highly recommend them for chill mode! Find them here for upcoming shows, https://www.facebook.com/BigCityYYC
I got turned onto this band not that long ago and really like them! The female vocals are really great and positive sounding :) I have been listening to their tunes on the website (link at the top) quite a bit and it puts me in a killer good mood! They are playing a mix of funk , Alternative , Reggae and Beach rock!I highly recommend them for chill mode! Find them here for upcoming shows, https://www.facebook.com/BigCityYYC
Friday, 14 February 2014
Valentines Day for the ladies with Hazzardous Materials :)
Erin from Hazzardous Materials Was super awesome to send me some pics for my Vday post for the ladies! These are for you to look at you sexy shmexy girls!!
Ryan.
Travis and Zuri.
Ryan.
Travis and Zuri.
Blake.
Kaires.
Have a great Valentines day! now go and get your rocks off!! ;)
Wednesday, 12 February 2014
Interview with Jesse L of World Class White Trash
Interview with Jesse of World Class Whiten Trash
Jesse-Ready whenever dude!
BSK-k i will pop up some new questions here and msg you soon and get this done !
Jesse-Fuckin rights! Stoked man
BSK-we can start now .. i have a smoke and a brew goin.. we can rock this freestyle!
Jesse-Fuckin eh man, fire away!
BSK-World Class White Trash!! .. I have heard the reason behind the name .. but give me your take on the name.
Jesse-Well I love the name! A lot of people see the name and think we're some kin of punk band, but then get blown away by our music, but to me it's a lifestyle choice. Being white trash with class really, not a whole lot of class but it's there... Sometimes hahaha
Plus it just rolls off the tongue you know?
BSK-Oh I know I love your shows! there is a bit of white trash mixed with a bit of class even if it is growly hardcore metal haha .. I just watched Disposable Soldiers and thought about where the idea came from for the song .. you have anything to add about that one?
Jesse-Well Nate and I are pretty close, and have touched on the subject, but it's definitely an anti war anthem of sorts. He could certainly elaborate on that, I know though he puts so much into his lyrics, and it shows in that one, along with songs like insomnianna, and counting headstones.
BSK-What do you think would be the future of not just your band but many bands in your situation. you are known but what would you say to up and coming bands looking to portray the same kind of political and social directive you tend to portray.?
Jesse-Well as for the future of world class, just taking it one step at a time. We have our new album coming out this spring/summer, and then a possible tour. As for other bands, just bring it, put everything you have into the music you make, and just write songs that resonate within yourself. I think if it comes from the heart, then people will like it. That's how I view music anyways. I think that's part of the reason were so well known, our music resonates with not only the metal heads, but all kinds of people too.
BSK-I have been privy to your music an I fuckin love it ! I gotta ask how you guys worked on your stage show and presence?
Jesse-We haven't really worked on it! It's something that just comes naturally, we all just kinda feed off each other, and as a result the energy we have on stage is nuts. We love being on that stage together, so it just comes naturally
BSK-That is fuckin rad! .. So for the sake of change I always have some personal questions I ask and this one is fun! haha .. What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?
Jesse-Rob a gun store, then proceed to the nearest liquor store while slaying zombies, steal all the lucky lager they have, build a tree stand an start slayin fuckin zombies hahaha while drinking said luckys
BSK-hahaha perfect dude!!
Jesse-Fuck yeah dude hahaha
BSK-Thanks for the interview dude!! I will post this as soon as I can
Jesse-Sounds good bro, fuck it's my pleasure. Thank you my brother!
BSK-no worries man! cheers!
Jesse-Ready whenever dude!
BSK-k i will pop up some new questions here and msg you soon and get this done !
Jesse-Fuckin rights! Stoked man
BSK-we can start now .. i have a smoke and a brew goin.. we can rock this freestyle!
Jesse-Fuckin eh man, fire away!
BSK-World Class White Trash!! .. I have heard the reason behind the name .. but give me your take on the name.
Jesse-Well I love the name! A lot of people see the name and think we're some kin of punk band, but then get blown away by our music, but to me it's a lifestyle choice. Being white trash with class really, not a whole lot of class but it's there... Sometimes hahaha
Plus it just rolls off the tongue you know?
BSK-Oh I know I love your shows! there is a bit of white trash mixed with a bit of class even if it is growly hardcore metal haha .. I just watched Disposable Soldiers and thought about where the idea came from for the song .. you have anything to add about that one?
Jesse-Well Nate and I are pretty close, and have touched on the subject, but it's definitely an anti war anthem of sorts. He could certainly elaborate on that, I know though he puts so much into his lyrics, and it shows in that one, along with songs like insomnianna, and counting headstones.
BSK-What do you think would be the future of not just your band but many bands in your situation. you are known but what would you say to up and coming bands looking to portray the same kind of political and social directive you tend to portray.?
Jesse-Well as for the future of world class, just taking it one step at a time. We have our new album coming out this spring/summer, and then a possible tour. As for other bands, just bring it, put everything you have into the music you make, and just write songs that resonate within yourself. I think if it comes from the heart, then people will like it. That's how I view music anyways. I think that's part of the reason were so well known, our music resonates with not only the metal heads, but all kinds of people too.
BSK-I have been privy to your music an I fuckin love it ! I gotta ask how you guys worked on your stage show and presence?
Jesse-We haven't really worked on it! It's something that just comes naturally, we all just kinda feed off each other, and as a result the energy we have on stage is nuts. We love being on that stage together, so it just comes naturally
BSK-That is fuckin rad! .. So for the sake of change I always have some personal questions I ask and this one is fun! haha .. What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?
Jesse-Rob a gun store, then proceed to the nearest liquor store while slaying zombies, steal all the lucky lager they have, build a tree stand an start slayin fuckin zombies hahaha while drinking said luckys
BSK-hahaha perfect dude!!
Jesse-Fuck yeah dude hahaha
BSK-Thanks for the interview dude!! I will post this as soon as I can
Jesse-Sounds good bro, fuck it's my pleasure. Thank you my brother!
BSK-no worries man! cheers!
Monday, 10 February 2014
Sysko's Band of the week - Statue of Demur
Statue Of Demur
I have know these guys for quite some time now and they are a very specific type of group! Heavy metal that kicks hard as fuck and kills the crowd! The band is only part of an ever growing group of peaple both bands and fans that are inter connected in a great way. Although a little bit secular from the rest of the scene here in town True North Hardcore has been working hard to take the heavy metal industry out of downtown and into the hood . I used to run shows with them at Shooters bar and grill in Dover and now they are back to the new bar that has taken its place .. Sideline sports lounge located in the same place that the great stage tha Shooters once had is going to be holding these guys and many others on the weekends to bring back the metal scene that the place once stood for .. So head to Dover on the corner of 26st and Dover ridge drive on the weekends to rock the fuck out and get a taste of ghetto metal!
I have know these guys for quite some time now and they are a very specific type of group! Heavy metal that kicks hard as fuck and kills the crowd! The band is only part of an ever growing group of peaple both bands and fans that are inter connected in a great way. Although a little bit secular from the rest of the scene here in town True North Hardcore has been working hard to take the heavy metal industry out of downtown and into the hood . I used to run shows with them at Shooters bar and grill in Dover and now they are back to the new bar that has taken its place .. Sideline sports lounge located in the same place that the great stage tha Shooters once had is going to be holding these guys and many others on the weekends to bring back the metal scene that the place once stood for .. So head to Dover on the corner of 26st and Dover ridge drive on the weekends to rock the fuck out and get a taste of ghetto metal!
Thursday, 6 February 2014
Alternative Model - LilMissPUKfce
LilMissPUKefce
Is a fuckin awesome local model who shoots in many different ways and has mad experience! Model, Cam girl, Actress you fuckin name it and she has it! I was turned on to her from a friend who did some work with her and I loved it! Black Ace photography who I have mentioned before got some great shots of this hot tatted up little alternative princess who could probably seduce you and then kick your ass all within minutes!
Is a fuckin awesome local model who shoots in many different ways and has mad experience! Model, Cam girl, Actress you fuckin name it and she has it! I was turned on to her from a friend who did some work with her and I loved it! Black Ace photography who I have mentioned before got some great shots of this hot tatted up little alternative princess who could probably seduce you and then kick your ass all within minutes!
You will have to click the links above to see more! She has a ton of work!!!
Check her out and visit Black ace for more awesome shots like this! Cheers! -BSK
Tuesday, 4 February 2014
Zeb's CD Reviews
So I'm trying something new this year, I'm going to start doing CD reviews for local albums. So if your band has some new material coming out let me put it in my ear holes and I'll write some nice things about it if I like it.
To play somewhat of a catch up for awhile there might be some older releases I will be reviewing as well as anything i come across.
Back Door Charm by The Rumble (Punk)(2013 self released)
The Rumble was a band that I came across by mistake. They played not too long ago at Tubby Dog with 36? They gave a great live performance so i took time to invest in some tunes. Their 3 track EP Back Door Charm is too short once you start getting into it, it's over but the three songs are a great mixture of old school punk and classic rock vibes. Hammering drums and slick guitar riffs and even a harmonica is thrown in for a song. Keep an eye out for these young gents and check out the album here
Bump- The Tontos (Indie)(2013 self released)
An excellent combination of indie rock and 50's rock reminiscent to the AM radio I grew up on as a young lad it's like Modest Mouse meets Buddy Holy. This album is a smooth listen and very enjoyable. With 18 tracks this is a solid full length that keeps your interest the whole way. You can't help but smile while you listen to it. I have yet to check out this band live but i'll be making sure to next time they play. Check it out here
One More Life - Black Earth (Rock) (2013 self released)
I don't know what I love most about Black Earth to be honest, is it the catchy guitar riffs, the hard hitting drums,groovy bass lines, the beautiful voice of the equally beautiful Erika Leah or the fact that this EP includes a Foo Fighter cover. It's probably all of the above. These songs are goddamn catchy and you'll probably sing them for weeks. Check It out here.
Monogamy and Land Ownership - Chairface (Punk) (2013 self released)
Chairface was a band that slipped right under the radar. This being their most current release and could quite possibly be their swan song as the band has taken a hiatus since releasing it in November. This is a pop punk masterpiece with angst lyrics over top of poppy riffs but still powerful enough to kick you straight in the teeth. Check it Out Here
To play somewhat of a catch up for awhile there might be some older releases I will be reviewing as well as anything i come across.
Back Door Charm by The Rumble (Punk)(2013 self released)
The Rumble was a band that I came across by mistake. They played not too long ago at Tubby Dog with 36? They gave a great live performance so i took time to invest in some tunes. Their 3 track EP Back Door Charm is too short once you start getting into it, it's over but the three songs are a great mixture of old school punk and classic rock vibes. Hammering drums and slick guitar riffs and even a harmonica is thrown in for a song. Keep an eye out for these young gents and check out the album here
Bump- The Tontos (Indie)(2013 self released)
An excellent combination of indie rock and 50's rock reminiscent to the AM radio I grew up on as a young lad it's like Modest Mouse meets Buddy Holy. This album is a smooth listen and very enjoyable. With 18 tracks this is a solid full length that keeps your interest the whole way. You can't help but smile while you listen to it. I have yet to check out this band live but i'll be making sure to next time they play. Check it out here
One More Life - Black Earth (Rock) (2013 self released)
I don't know what I love most about Black Earth to be honest, is it the catchy guitar riffs, the hard hitting drums,groovy bass lines, the beautiful voice of the equally beautiful Erika Leah or the fact that this EP includes a Foo Fighter cover. It's probably all of the above. These songs are goddamn catchy and you'll probably sing them for weeks. Check It out here.
Monogamy and Land Ownership - Chairface (Punk) (2013 self released)
Chairface was a band that slipped right under the radar. This being their most current release and could quite possibly be their swan song as the band has taken a hiatus since releasing it in November. This is a pop punk masterpiece with angst lyrics over top of poppy riffs but still powerful enough to kick you straight in the teeth. Check it Out Here
Sysko's Band Of The Week!! - Leave The Living
Leave The Living,
First off I have to say that these guys are from Red Deer but play here in town a fuckin ton and I had to give them a special B.O.T.W because they kill! Heavy as fuck Metal that I rock on my headphones when I work out pretty much every time! I have known of them for a while but still have not been able to catch them live but believe me the next chance I get I will be there with my thrashing shoes on ready to rock the fuck out! Vocals -Justin Shadows I have met a bunch before but didnt get to stick around for them so do not be like me and check them out whenever you can!
First off I have to say that these guys are from Red Deer but play here in town a fuckin ton and I had to give them a special B.O.T.W because they kill! Heavy as fuck Metal that I rock on my headphones when I work out pretty much every time! I have known of them for a while but still have not been able to catch them live but believe me the next chance I get I will be there with my thrashing shoes on ready to rock the fuck out! Vocals -Justin Shadows I have met a bunch before but didnt get to stick around for them so do not be like me and check them out whenever you can!
Monday, 3 February 2014
Half Chance Heroes Show review!!
Half chance Heroes show review!!
It was an interesting night at Morgans pub last Wednesday with half chance, I had a fucking blast! I just put them up as band of the week and got invited to the show by the band and the manager who is awesome! I went with my roommate and some interesting people including fellow blogger / Dj / Dead pretty , Jager Valen :)
The set was Sick and I wish you could have been there because the show had me walking away with a wicked smile :D You have to check out the album! If you like 90's punk/college rock with a little bit of Sublime mixed in. I had a killer time and will be rocking their shirt and cd for quite some time!
Some people were even moshing on the dancefloor to songs that honestly are not a thrash song haha
Lead singer and keyboardist Damian really surprised me with his showmanship despite being behind a keyboard :)
Click the link on the name to check them out because you will not be disappointed !!
It was an interesting night at Morgans pub last Wednesday with half chance, I had a fucking blast! I just put them up as band of the week and got invited to the show by the band and the manager who is awesome! I went with my roommate and some interesting people including fellow blogger / Dj / Dead pretty , Jager Valen :)
The set was Sick and I wish you could have been there because the show had me walking away with a wicked smile :D You have to check out the album! If you like 90's punk/college rock with a little bit of Sublime mixed in. I had a killer time and will be rocking their shirt and cd for quite some time!
Some people were even moshing on the dancefloor to songs that honestly are not a thrash song haha
Lead singer and keyboardist Damian really surprised me with his showmanship despite being behind a keyboard :)
Click the link on the name to check them out because you will not be disappointed !!
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