Interview with Matt Blais !! :)

BSK-hey how goes it?

Matt Blais

good boss how r u

BSK-I am doing great

Matt Blais

ok, fire away

BSK-Shweet man! .. First I want to know what you beginning in music was and if you can tell me about
your journey with Calgary music.

Matt Blais
Essentially, when I was young I didn't even think about being a musician. I was really into animals and wanted to be a marine biologist. When I saw the movie Free Willy, I wanted to be just like the kid and that kid had a harmonica. So I begged for one. That was my first musical instrument.

Matt Blais
Obviously I didn't talk to any whales with it but, years later when I started really listening to music, I discovered guys like Bob Dylan and Tom Petty who were song writers and they played harmonica. I thought it would be pretty interesting to give that a try. So I learned guitar and started a few bands. I wanted to play live even though we were terrible, but, we got better and better and eventually people were asking US to play gigs instead of us begging them. That has grown into the career I have today. It was all very gradual and accidental.

BSK-I love harmonica! I have been messing around with my Honers for a while . My favorite song of yours is " Goodbye sunshine"  The harmonica in the song is great! What was your inspiration for that track?

Matt Blais
Thanks! I'm pretty proud of that track. It came out of some tough times with band members and stress of trying to get things going in the face of adversity. It's definitely a song about naivety and loss of innocence. Goodbye to the rosey glow and hello to the harsh reality of this business. I've gotten bluesier as my career has grown and I thought that genre was the perfect vehicle for that theme and those words.

BSK-Do you have any big plans for the future with your music?

Matt Blais
Of course. I think the life of a musician is all about "big plans." In a week I head down to L.A to take part of MusExpo - We're hoping some great things will come out of that. A new music vid is in the works. I'm writing again, which is nice. So a new record is in it's seedling phase. I always have plans to tour. Basically, a whole bunch of smaller plans create the ultimate big plan.

BSK-I am stoked for ya man! that sounds like we have a ton to look forward to  as I usually have local musicians reading this blog do you have as an established musician in Calgary any advice for up and coming artists?

Matt Blais
The advice that's worked for me is "never be satisfied."  Knowing that you can always get more out of yourself, be it emotion or creativity, will always propel you forward. The desire to make each show more entertaining for the audience will get you the gigs you want. No artist should ever be too comfortable.

BSK-Sounds great to me , Always push yourself  is there anything you would like to say to the readers before I get to my last question?

Matt Blais
I suppose just, thanks for reading, thanks for listening and keep supporting the artists you love.

BSK-Right on! and now my favorite question ! What would you do in a zombie apocalypse ??
Hahaha, excellent question.  I think I'd be the kind of person to always keep moving. Gather a small group of trustworthy people with diverse skills and bounce from resource to resource. I'm not sure but I think could survive for quite some time . . .but then again everyone thinks that . . .until they get bit.

BSK-great answer!! Thanks for the interview man!! It was really fun!
thank you sir!

Matt Blais
it was indeed
BSK-Cheers man! it will be posted today ! thanks again!

Live shows this weekend!!!

I have missed out on some updating for shows but not this weekend !! Tons of shit to go and check out!
Fuck the snow!

Tonight!!
Steve McQueen Band is playing at the Kings Head Pub ( and tomorrow night too) here is the fb link for more info! Here.

The Bloody Hells are with The Escorts at Dickens for Punk rock'n'roll attack on Friday, March 28!
THE BLOODY HELLS, THE ESCORTS, THE ATIVANS and MASS CONTROL $7
First band 10 PM. link is Here.

Mr. Furious is playing Big Al's in Forest lawn and Sadly this is the bands final show together So if you are a Fury fan you should probably go! Link Here

Tomorrow!!

Scotty Bernier and Tanner James Holth are hosting the open jam at The Ship and Anchor on 17th ave. info Here

For those wondering about all ages venues I guess there is one at The Golden Age club, I hope it turn out well because they have a good line up tomorrow. The Best in Brutality Tour will be shaking the fuck out of that place!! more info Here

The Blind Beggar is Hosting Ruth Purves Smith, The Fast Nationals and Kill your Radio. info Here

The Press Gang is having their CD release party!!! The Stetson Stage on Macleod trail. With Bloated Pig, A War Within and Frightenstein !!! Sure to be a killer fucking show!! 

And last but definitely not least is a show at my old stomping grounds Sidelines in Dover!! With 4 fucking awesome bands!! PERVCORE!! WORLD CLASS WHITE TRASH!! STATUE OF DEMUR!! FROM ANOTHER TIME!! info Here 

Get the fuck up and go see some shows and support local music!! Cheers!! - BSK

Up and coming Photographer to keep an eye out for ! - Elizabeth Joyal.

Elizabeth Joyal is a local photographer with great promise. Here are some of her shots!>

Check her out on the link above and shoot her a like! - Cheers! -BSK

News :)

So for the last little while I have been off and busy coming up with new things and some decisions I have made are that I will more than likely be managing bands again and also be putting on shows under the name ALTCitY ProduCtionS .. We will have some more to say about that soon :) Also I will be announcing our newest promotion member very soon!! .. We are just working out the details and life shit :P .. Spring in very fuckin promising and summer is quite figured out .. sorry I cannot say much about that yet but I can say wicked interviews are coming very soon and since I missed the band of the week this week I have some great things to make up for time lost .. Cheers! -BSK

Zeb's CD Reviews

Ghost Notes - Cowpuncher (Soaring Eagle Records)

I have yet to see this band preform live but a buddy of mine picked me up their new disc and I love it. It's a great mix between country and rock. For a good time with your buds or just relaxing at home it's a great listen. Essential Tracks - Back of Vans, Bridesmaids, Country Maiden Check out some tracks here

Where Do We Go From Here - 36? (Self-Produced)

Fronted by Taylor Cochrane this psychedelic band pleases all your senses. Witty catchy and great musicianship on this. It's almost like being high without the drugs. Also a great live band to see if you ever get the chance. Essential Tracks "Soul Searching" and "Head First"
Check it out Here

Miss Grizzly - Miss Grizzly (Self-Produced)

I've stumbled upon this gem recorded by the one and only Casey Lewis at Echo Base studios. A very progressive rock album with noticeable influences such as Coheed and Cambria and Black Sabbath this upbeat EP grooves and riffs you through 5 tracks and I'll be making my way to see them as soon as i can. Essential Tracks "Road House" "Go" and "Find A Way"
Check It Out Here


The Floor Is Lava - The Heart Set (Self Produced)

I had the joy of meeting these young lads last weekend while gallivanting out on the town. This indie art rock band has a real upbeat surf sound to them. They've informed me they are working on a new album so keep an ear out for them. Essential Tracks "I'm Not James Bond, But I've Seen His Movies" and "Sticks and Stones"
Check It Out Here

Sysko's Band Of The Week!! - Black Earth!

Black Earth is my band to show you this week!
A great Alternative band that you may or may not have heard of that is just great!
Erika, Anthony J, Steve and Tyler make up the band and really kill it! I first found this band because Anthony plays in one of my favorite bands in Calgary Deluge!! And if you know me then I have probably mentioned them before! the two bands share a song called runaway knight that Anthony wrote and has performed with both bands you can check it out with all of the other songs that they have here.
Black Earth has a great post punk sound with killer female vocals and a very strong guitar and drum backing that really compliments the vocals! check them out and shoot the a "Like" they deserve it!!

Cheers!! -BSK

Interview with Jen from Windigo and show info for Palomino show! .. Band of the Week gone crazy! :D

I planned the band of the week to be Windigo but I ended up with a lot more!!

Ok so I got to meet Jen from Windigo and chat about some rad things and some up and coming things like them playing the Palomino anniversary show March 29th here is the event :)

And here is what we chatted about!!

BSK-would you be down for a quick interview?

Jen -for sure man. ask away!

BSK- First thing is can you tell me about yourself a little bit and how you got into music and eventually Windigo?

Jen-lol this is definitely the condensed version of this answer...

I grew up listening to a lot of classic rock albums with my dad (The Beatles, led zeppelin, Supertramp) and that interest eventually turned down a folk-ier path leading me towards more stuff like bob Dylan and John Prine, I just thought the acoustic guitar was something I was really interested in. so my parents bought me one I was probably 10, and I stared to learn some basic chord formations and wrote some pretty basic songs. I was very shy when I was young, so it wasn't really until high school when I started performing music and taking music lesions. all through high school I did a bunch of royal conservatory vocal exams and I was teaching voice lesions but I definitely preferred writing music and playing it. Eventually I convinced a couple friends of mine to play guitar and drums to some songs that I had written and members of the band changed until eventually the Band was called high quill. High quill was around for a year but eventually broke up and then Chris asked me to join Windigo.
BSK-Rad! .. So I was wondering if you had plans to do some recording any time soon?

Jen-We just did a bunch of live off the floor demos with our friend Eric Andrews. we have plans to use the demos as the very first step in pre production for our next album, so were going to go through the songs and essentially strip them down to what we like and what we think would be cool to add or what we should change or do differently.  we don't know when we will be recording the next album but plans are definitely underway.
BSK-I am going to do my best to make it to the show at the Palomino on the 29th for the show! I am sure it will be all kinds of awesome! .. Anything to say about the show?

Jen-Yay! I am really excited to play, our Friends The Ashley Hundred are some of the nicest most talented musicians I know and their album is awesome, you might even see our bands play a song at the end as one band if you're lucky!
BSK-that would kick ass!!  .. next question is a bit of a toughy for some .. What do you think of the state of the Calgary music industry and how it stands today? What would you change if you could?

Jen-hummmmm

I think the Calgary music scene for some has been hard to break into. There are a lot of existing clicks, and by that I mean bands who only play shows together. I think there is new amazing talent popping up everywhere, and we feel like our success with the music scene isn’t about stepping on peoples toes to get ahead of them we would rather make friends so we can share our knowledge and experiences and grow the community.
There are way more resources available to Calgary musicians now that help them out especially now that the Alberta Music office has opened up.
If I could change anything about the Calgary scene I would hope to see more all ages venues available.
BSK-you basically took the words out of my mouth  lol I love the scene but the cliques can be tasking but after you get past that point you are usually fine on your own .. and yes the all ages venues are depleting because there is no revenue coming in for the venues so they tend to fizzle away.. so my notorious last question that I ask is .. What would you do if there was to be a zombie apocalypse?

Jen-Oh man, probably contact my band and family and friends to make sure they were ok. Pack the essentials and head to the mountains. Weapon of choice, crossbow.
good plan! Well thanks for chatting! I had a great time! .. Keep in touch and I will hopefully see you on the 29th.
Cheers!

E.P review - No More Moments - "Hot and fresh"

No More Moments 
I am sure you have heard of them by now but if not these past band of the weekers are fucking killer punk rockers that oh so often play live shows throughout the Calgary punk and metal scene. I recently talked to Carlin of no more moments and he sent me to his bandcamp site for the band because they have just released some new tracks!! I listened to them a ton last night and it brought me back to the day of NOFX, Black Flag and chillin on the porch getting loaded and talking about music all day in the sun .. So needless to say i love these tracks! Thanks Carlin!! to check it out for yourself the tracks are right here>http://nomoremoments.bandcamp.com/ 

-BSK

Catching up + Band of the week! - The Promethean Labyrinth!!

Ok so just to catch up with y'all , I have been pretty with life things that keeps me pretty occupied. But I will still be doing band of the week, Interviews and model reviews along with some show and album reviews.. But sadly until I actually figure out a new way to get my show list for the weekends they might not be on here for a couple weeks :( But anyway I would love to do this weeks band of the week for The Promethean Labyrinth  .. < Click the link and like the page! You may have already heard of the psychedelic progressive metal band and if you have here is a reminder :D Their webpage for some music is here on soundcloud!! Check them out!!! Lead singer Maria Joaquin Created all of these! Look him up for more of his killer artwork!!

Cheers-BSK

Band of the week!- Raleigh

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!!

Cheers! - BSK

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!

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

CHEERS!! -BSK

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.

Doc. 

Blake.

Kaires.

Have a great Valentines day! now go and get your rocks off!! ;)

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!

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!

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!

Sadly..

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

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

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!

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 !!
 

Sysko's Band of the week - Half Chance Heroes

Half Chance Heroes
I had heard about these guys before and believe that I once saw them live when they were starting out but they were recently brought to my full attention by my buddy Paul Husband and I have been listening to them all day and they have been hitting all the right buttons for me!! The ska/reggae / rap punk sound that I love from bands like Iration, Dirty Heads, Sublime and 311.. and the song on their page ( click the name ^ to check the website for tunes) "Boy with a toy" has me reminiscing about The Transplants :) And The song "Last December has a party punk sound that would fit perfectly in a raunchy college comedy movie :D Check them out for yourselves because they are on tour but you can see what they are up to here on FB >Half Chance Heroes!

This weekends shows!!

This weekend's Shows

First I am starting with today because there are some rad things going on.
 Unleash The Archers is releasing a pre-production demo for you !
Click the links to check it out.
TONIGHT!!

No More Moments, Triton, After The Prophet tonight at Tubby Dog

Calgary Beer Core Thursdays w,Samsara and Paint The Damage.

Scott Bernier, Johnny Dont and Cult Mustang at VERN'S.

Tanner James Holthe and his band are playing The Gateway w, The Federal Lights.

FRIDAY!!

Puttin On The Foil, A War Within, Jiffy Porne and Difficult Brown @ The D.

Vile Insignia, Druidus, Blackrat and Display Of Decay @ VERN'S.

Magnetta Lane, Million Dollar Fix and Broken Therapy @ Broken City.

Still Steppin w One Forty @ Lord Nelsons

Border Crossing is hosting Mr Furious.

SATURDAY!!

Shark Infested Daughters, Krepitus, Zipgun Wizdom, DETHGOD, Druidus @ The D

METZ- The Republik

Vanuary : Mancub, JENNY, Spliff Troll , Solid Brown and MUF DVR @ Palomino

SUNDAY!!

(A show that I hope to make it to ) Rockets and Dinosaurs/ DELUGE / Ghost Factory and The Ampheads at Broken City! All ages!

DIE plays Morgans pub!

Now get out and support music FFS !! :D Cheers!! - BSK

Sysko's B.O.T.W - Secret Broadcast!!

Secret Broadcast  Is my band of the week!
I have been listening to these guys for a long time and would love to tell ya how proud I am of them!
The first time I heard of them was from Xposure on X92.9 in 2007 or8. And was blown away by how they have taken the indie Alternative scene by storm and how they have given their all into their art!
This is a tune/vid that I love from them.

They are working on bran new stuff and I cannot wait until it makes it to the airwaves!
This here is a treat for ya of the new work they are coming out with soon !
new song pre view ! Click the link to check out the preview!
Calgary boys done good! Cheers to S.B ! - BSK

ArtiSaNs , A little writing about Art and its connection to local music and history.

Calgary Artisans 2014 +

by Brad Douglas Kidd A.K.A Sysko Kidd

(This is what I have been starting to write over the holidays :))
I have not put real feeling into a lot of my talks about outside music and art but I beleive that this can possible effect our art and community, you can agree or dissagre . I believe that the Calgary music community has been falling apart like raggs for some time and every once and a while someone steps up to patch it back together the best way they can .
I can remember when I started involving myself in the industries the same feeling of dissasosiation between bands, venues, artists, etc in the art and music industry but loving everything about all of it! . the plan I had at first was to help but my plan had changed to promoting , then to running shows then to managing and finally blogging about our local scene that is visualised by the arts/music communnity world wide .. the thought I had after taking a step back and noticing the dismay thay have towards us is the reason i have been tanasius about sacrificing 5 years of my life and time i could have spent on other things than helping a scene that has had many of people like me retreate when they fail.
I watch what happens because I care about what people do in the system but for what they contribute to a larger good. eg, we cannot all play at local venues and plan a future while knowing that everyone that is at the show are local and have seen you play a thousand times.. It is time for the musicians and artists to be able to come together and show people what this part of our city is capable of! I am not the only one that will say the same things .. there are many of us .. so what I project is another collaberative that can help everyone in music in calgary connect to others through not just a biased recording studio but a company that will help put calgary on the map by having a program to have av students , law studends , art and music students along with buiseness students apply to involve themselves into the change that we look for. finding investors and marketors accross canada to run something that we run on our own under the right laws for the right people that will take a chance on something amazing for the city we love. the city that has endless talent to create something amazing in which we can all be cogs in a mass machine that we can refurbish and renovate so that we can be proud of it massively.
The vision is to expand on what we have and turn a city that we love into what everyone is looking for through sacrifice .. Help , recognition, beleif and respect earned..
Every one like us is looking for something that cannot be explained but we follow it to its bitter end through the trials and tribulations we devoutly go through in the greater good and follow the dream through signs given to us by the universe .. that being said I beleive that my place is to help unite and progress our local music and arts industry so that we can all become what we dream to be.
The goal I have may seem strange due to everyone having their indeferences, stress, home lives and family but though a planned intergration we can help everyone through empathy love and knowledge instead of greed, self importance, Antistructure, sabatauge, hate and manipulation.... Sounds pretty crazy hahaha yeah I know but I will try anyway knowing the HUGE! chance of failure is there.
True dreams can only be acheived if you put your neck on the line and I know that there are others out there looking for change who do not know how to do it!
I am but just one person looking for change and need some help. I do not know everything I should or probably never will but I do know that this sacrifice of my life will become something I will never outlive because a journey will always be followed by another just like me and those who beleive that art of any kind is important to mind, soul, body, continuity of man and the greater good of man itself.
History tells us that artists and artisans have forever been the the standpoint of evolution from every thing from the articulation of fire building to architecture of the pyrimids in eygypt, the strutures in pumapunku bolivia, cave drawings in ancient cave spanning the globe, the lourve in paris and the greatest in my mind to reprisent the history of man the smithsonian. this is all art and is an expression of humanity as a whole. so when you think of words and life you have to know that this our existance and artists are out future and past.
My respect for artisans and loyalty to the art surpasses me in many ways but I know that it is in everyone of us to help create something new , beit music,art,beauty,conversation,thought or experimentation of human nature.
Some call it alternative but I call it evolution.
Calgary and its artisans can become anything they want knowing that it may change the lives of others and create something that can inspire greatness in others the way great people have done before.
I love you Calgary .. Do what you can to make things the way you need or want them to be!
Cheers! - BSK

1st post of the new year finally :)

So now I am back from the AltCiTY vacation and will be back a ton more than last year! I plan to be around a lot more often to bring you as much local news about shows/bands/artists and models. That said I have to do a year end show review for 2013 by talking about the last show I went to on new years eve! The stetson hotel put on a punk vs metal show that was to say the least fucking awesome! I got to see tons of bands! 10 for 10 bucks! that and a bunch of friends! .. To be honest it was NYE so yeah I was a bit out of it nearing the end haha but I made sure to make it for Pervecore! I love that band so it will be my band of 2013 this year! I have a plan to interview them all soon so stay tuned for that!.. In other news the A.C hq the "Doungeon " is now up and ready for in person interviews and general horseplay and hanging out :D it has taken some time but the place is looking great and we will be having a party sometime in the near future! .. so for now, CHEERS! come back soon -BSK

P.s We plan to make some new merch to be given away and sold at some shows I have started to plan to keep an eye out and stay tuned for some new AlTCiTY swag :D

Vacation and new shit for 1014! NYE!

We have been taking a break from posting over the holidays .. you know , because we have to do the drinkin and family stuff too .. But we will be coming back next year like a mothafucka with some great new shit for you all! Sneak peek you get now is that we will be doing a couple of NYE show reviews from both me and Zeb that will be ready for when your hangovers are somewhat gone! I hope you all had a wicked Xmas or whatever yall ended up doing :) .. Cheers to a new year!!

Punk show vs Metal

10 BANDS for 10 BUCKS AFTER THE PROFIT PERVCORE FRIGHTENSTEIN ELECTRIC REVIVAL THE RIGORMORTITIONS A WAR WITHIN CITIZEN RAGE BLACKEST SIN THE ATIVANS CADAVOR DOG This is where I will be - BSK Hit up the Stetson by Anderson station to come chill and ring in the new year with me and many others!!

Interview with Josh of SKYMIR!!

A little past due but here is the interview with Josh from Skymir !!!!
Actually I just freed up some time tonight .. so yeah I am down for sure!
Josh Bell-Surette
Sweet, sounds great !
Brad Sysko Kidd
Right on! .. well as usual I like to have a smoke and crack a brew before I put together some questions .. sound good?
Josh Bell-Surette
That's fucking awesome hahaha
Brad Sysko Kidd
hahaha k back! wanna get this goin? My hands are freezin so don't mind my slow typing
Josh Bell-Surette
Yeah for sure man !
Brad Sysko Kidd
K first up is , How did you get into playing music and what was your biggest influence?
Josh Bell-Surette
The funny thing is is I start really wanting to play guitar through guitar hero, I got really good at it and had been into metal for a while at that point, I think my biggest influence has got to be pretty hard to nail on the head but megadeth and the faceless have got to be up there for sure.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Haha I still have pretty much every guitar hero for ps2 but my cords are missing  .. Some people see it as a gateway and some see it as a poser way to learn but I believe it can be a great gateway! .. What was your scariest time playing a show?
Josh Bell-Surette
Probably our last show we just played, we opened up for gypsy hawk, trollfest and alestorm, it was very nerve racking watching professional musician set up do their sound check and then having five minutes to set up and just start playing basically as people are flooding in, and playing in front of some great bands
Brad Sysko Kidd
Great bands for sure!! ..That would be a bit intimidating but you get to learn more and more every show you play  ..
What would be the best place for you to ever play outside of this city?
Josh Bell-Surette
I'd really love to go and play in Quebec I heard it's an awesome place and their music seen especially metal is just wicked
Brad Sysko Kidd
You know of any venue out there that you may have heard of for the people who may read this and look to tour that way?
Josh Bell-Surette
I have no clue about the venues over there to be honest but if someone who reads this can gets into one do it up !
Brad Sysko Kidd
They can comment if they know one  What would you consider your passion for your future in music ?
Josh Bell-Surette
I am very passionate about lots of different types of music not just metal, I've always wanted to do my own solo project, probably something progressive in nature, but I still am very passionate about what we do in Skymir, we can't really be label at least that's were I stand, we each bring some sort of different influence and we all contribute to the music itself,
Brad Sysko Kidd
Well to the last question ... What would you do if the worlds lights shut out and the only weapon you had was a truck and some ammo enough to last you 2 weeks with no food?
Josh Bell-Surette
I would find myself a camp of weak people and drive my truck right through it firing at all of them, two weeks of ammo is quite a bit so it's probably worth the food for it anyways
Brad Sysko Kidd
Probably one of the darkest of answers I have gotten .. Fuckit .. what would you do in a Zombie Apocalypse??
Josh Bell-Surette
Hey you gotta do what ya gotta do, I would head over to one of my buddy's houses that near by and pick up some guns then I'd probably wanna get out of the city as fast as I could so find a big truck some I could mow people off the road with that can carry the people I need, get into the mountains up high so it's hard for the zombies to reach you, hard for them to get to the game you need to survive if your up that high anyways, or I could go the other way and just kill and take everything from everyone, I watch to much walking dead and zombies
Brad Sysko Kidd
Fuckin eh dude! Thanks for the interview dude!!!
No problem at all thank you! Cheers

Happy Holidays from AlTCiTY Calgary!!!!

Hello! Brad here.. I am not much for the holidays but I send my love and energy to all of our readers all the time and send thanks for our first year of having amazing people reading and sharing our page with many people !! The people involved are very happy to have you read about what we can say about the industry we are trying to help! Thank you! To all of those interviewed or featured keep it up and we love ya!! for the readers who have been so loyal keep posted for more in the new year because I am working on some great things for you! Have a ton of fuckin turkey , get really drunk and go to any of the numerous shows that are playing on new years!!! get your yuletide on and support local music!! Happy Holidays and have a great time!! -Cheers!! Brad Sysko Kidd out.. Talk to you soon!

Zeb's 2013 in Review

Well it's that time of year where everyone makes their lists on what was what of 2013. Here are my top 5 favorite local albums released this year, 5 favorite local songs and 5 up and coming bands to watch out for in 2014

Top 5 Local Albums (In No Order)

~ The Evidence - Potiental (Progressive Rock)(Self Released).

Follow up to 2011 Currents. Casey Lewis and company release what they call a homege to Queen and their best album to date. Recorded at Echo Base Studios by Lewis himself this album has the typical Evidence feel but it feels like their is new life back into the band. Essential Tracks 'Lies','The Difference' and 'Again & Again'
Listen to it Here

~ Tanner James - How to Ruin Your Life With Women (Folk)(Self Released).

Former Nix Dickson's frontman spreads his wings and flys solo for the first time. Instead of party rocking and loud guitars Tanner strips down to the basics and digs down into his country roots . Recorded by Lorrie Matheson at Arch Audio. This concept album about the girls who got away and the ones that end up better off that they left. The names aren't changed to protect the identities of any of these ex lovers. Essential Tracks 'Blue Eyed Girls','Dear John Letter to My Fair City' and 'How To Ruin Your Life With Women'
Listen To It Here

~ Jenny - Love and Politics (Folk/Punk)(Sudden Death Records).

Jenny hit the big time and while opening up for Joey Shithead of D.O.A. last year, sparked interest in the legendary punk rocker. Recorded with producer Steve Kravac (Blink-182,MXPX, Less Than Jake) in L.A. Their first label release is more polished then the previous releases but shows the band has strong songwritting and a future in Canadian punk rock.
Essential Tracks 'How Far Can This Thing Go?' 'I Think I Like You ft. Dylan S. Keating' and 'The Middle'
Listen to it Here

~ DELUGE! - The Quiet Things (Indie Rock)(Self Released).

Vetran's in the Calgary music community, DELUGE! relese their sophmore album The Quiet Things. After having their single "Anatomy of Me" played last summer on X92.9 The quartet went into Echo Base Studios trying to make the best album they could. It's full of pop punk melodies and tongue in check lyrics. The standout track on this is 'Art School' featuring Aislinn Grant. Frontman Dave Drebit's first Duet. Essential Tracks 'Anatomy of Me' 'All I Could Do' "19 Years'
Listen to it Here

~ Rockets and Dinosaurs - Angry Gnarly Love (Self Released)

2012 Xposure winners release their first full length album. Recorded at Taylor Sound it's jam packed with Pop Punk melodies and teen angst and semi dirty lyrics. You'll be humming some of these tunes for days on end. Essential Tracks 'Unloveable' 'Knockin Knees' and 'Malarky'
Listen To It Here



Top 5 Favorite Local Songs (In No Order)

~ Black Earth - Boss Fight
~ Jenny - I think I like You ft. Dylan S. Keating (Love & Politics)
~ Hair of the Ghost Town Gentlemen - The Beggining (Single)
~ Won Over Nothing - Self Destruct Button
~ DELUGE! - All I Could Do (The Quiet Things)

Top 5 Bands to Watch in 2014 (In No Order)


~ Mudd. (Funk/Rock)
~ Set and Stoned (Rock)
~ Black Opus (Rock)
~ Won Over Nothing (Hip Hop/Rock)
~ Aberdeen (Rock)

Sysko's Band Of The Week! - Black Earth!

Band of the Week! - Black Earth
Like them! Like them! .. Some good friends of the Calgary music industry who rock like no other in their genre..I have to say many thisngs but I am sure it will speak for itself in the below link to their music that they graciously put out for you to hear! The vocals are awesome! The whole band will rock you! My buddy Anthony J who I previously interviewed is on the drums! Listen for yourself with this link !!

listen here! >

Interview with Jesse Lafeber of World Class White Trash!!

Interview with Jesse L of World Class White Trash!!!

Brad Sysko Kidd
I am all good to go !
Jesse Lafeber
Brad Sysko Kidd
lemme have a smoke and get ready then I will be down quick.
Jesse Lafeber
Gonna do the same thing!
Brad Sysko Kidd
K dude I am good to go!
Jesse Lafeber
right on man, fire away!
Brad Sysko Kidd

Well first I want to know what you have to say about the work you are doing with World Class White Trash!
Jesse Lafeber
well, that kinda depends on how you define work hahaha as far as new songs, we have some cool ones were working on right now, should be ready to bust em out pretty soon. also, were in the process of recording a new album called blood sweat & the beers, andy has all his drum tracks done, so once those have been edited iim gonna get in there and start throwing down bass tracks. it never really feels like work though, you know what I mean?
Brad Sysko Kidd
Well put about the work part .. As long as you love it, It will never feel like work.  How long have you been involved in playing music, What was your start?
Jesse Lafeber
gotta go way back here.... I remember when I was about 11 or 12, my dad bought a bass guitar for my brother, saw him playing it, said hey I can do that, and been in love ever since. first song I ever learned, long before I actually listened to it and realized what I was playing was cowboys from hell actually hahaha
Brad Sysko Kidd
That my friend is not a very easy song to play at that experience! Where do you see yourself going in the future with music / WCWT or even life itself ?
Jesse Lafeber
honestly, I haven't really been thinking much about that. as far as world class goes, were all in it to win it so, and we have a couple solid opprutunities on the table right now, so were just gonna work on pushing ourselves as hard as we can to make something of it. that's a huge part of my life, other than that though I just wanna live and be happy anyway I can, maybe try and get a side project going outside of wcwt, I have a solid job so, you know just gonna live life.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Any words to say to the readers who may be interested in coming up in the local scene? I know that it can be complicated for some people to start contacting people and jumping into " The music scene" without knowing the local crowd?
Jesse Lafeber
all I can really say, get out there, meet people. making friends is really the easiest way to get into or start up a band. other than that, just stay motivated, keep positives, and good things happen
Brad Sysko Kidd
What would be your greatest influence ? If you could name one that changed your life?
Jesse Lafeber
Heavy metal man, its always been the thing that's been there, anytime ive felt down and out, or super stoked, those moments are always fueled by metal. biggest influence in my life for sure, and if I had to narrow it down from there, it would be pantera.
Brad Sysko Kidd
K now for the obscure questions .. and I am going to flip it up A bit and not ask the Zombie question .. If a stranger was at your door saying that he was a prophet and he had news for you and your loved ones but the only way he would spread the truth about your future was that you made him a peanut butter and jelly sandwich .. what would you do? Keep in mind there are zombies outside.
Jesse Lafeber
id probably let the dude in, and make him a pb and j sandbitch hahaha, definitely would want my story told
Brad Sysko Kidd
hahahaha Sandbitch .. nice! IO am going to call this pt 1 of this interview because I unexpectedly have to go .. But we will chat again soon
Cheers dude! and thanks for the chat!!!!
Jesse Lafeber
sounds good man, fuck thank you my friend! its been a pleasure!
Brad Sysko Kidd
No worries bro! talk to you soon!
Jesse Lafeber
hell yeah brotha!
Cheers!

5000 Page views!! .. A Thank you too our supporters!!

So for the amount of time that we have been blogging that is since July under the name AltCiTYwe hit 5000 page views today! That was my goal and we hit it before schedule soThank you everyone who has been involved in B.O.T.W , Show posts, Random blogging and every interviewee that we have talked too! Cheers to every contributor !! I am soo proud of everyone that is involved in the Calgary music and counterculture scene and will be around for a long time bringing you anything that I can to support you back!! This is something to cheers to! Thanks again and here is to thousands more!!! Brad Sysko Kidd loves ya! Keep on rockin and have a wicked weekend!

Song Review - The Promethean Labyrinth - Immortals

Album review - T.P.L And the new album - Song -Immortals.
I got a sneek peek at one of the new Promethean Labyrinth songs and this is what I have to say!
The first thought I had was at the first 20 seconds of the first track and it was , Fuckin eh! The voice on the track reminded me of a mix between Kim Shattuck, Amy Lee and a divine sprite had some kind of love child with a perverted demon who was nice sometimes. The drums were dead on and the vocals are killer!!
So today is the day they release the album publicly so go to the above link to the band and please check it out! They sound soo fucking great!! Like the page!! ;)

Brad chats with Carlin Blackrabbit of No More Moments!!!

Interview with Carlin Blackrabbit of No More Moments!!!

Currently working on a 7" to pass on to the masses!!

Wanna get this going?
Carlin Blackrabbit
Ok

Brad Sysko Kidd
No problem dude  just a little busy myself. So first question that I have to ask and have wanted to for a while is, How did you get into music and how hard was it coming from where you are from to break into the music industry?
Carlin Blackrabbit
Networking has been big part of this band. If we play a show with a band we don't know it's mandatory for us to bro down with them. Also with networking I worked in the bar industry for a couple years, and i just met bands and promoters along the way. Without the help of Dickens Pub the band wouldn't be where we are today. Chris Hewitt, the owner gave us that chance. So networking is important, and cherish the people you meet too.
Carlin Blackrabbit
Networking has been big part of this band. If we play a show with a band we  know it's mandatory for us to bro down with them. Also with networking I worked in the bar industry for a couple years, and i just met bands and promoters along the way. Without the help of Dickens Pub the band wouldn't be where we are today. Chris Hewitt, the owner gave us that chance. So networking is important, and cherish the people you meet too.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Sorry I was a out like a light by 2am haha .. anyway to keep this going what is your biggest influence with your music?

Carlin Blackrabbit
It's always going to be apart of me. I never wanted to do anything but play music. I suck at most everything but music. It's what I know, and I'm proud to called myself a musician.

Brad Sysko Kidd
I am sad to say that I have never got the chance / privilege to see you play live  But Is there anything coming up that me and my readers would be able to hear or see?

Carlin Blackrabbit
We got a few shows line up to end off the year. No More Moments will be playing Dickens with The Escort; sex punk done right and Nosis; stoner rock, and they are all the nicest dudes ever. A portion of the door will go towards toys for kids on Christmas. Copsickle will be playing with The Motherfuckers at Tubby Dog dec 28th. It's a free show and all ages are welcome.

Brad Sysko Kidd
Can you give us some insights into what is next for you and your band? Something that people do not already know

Carlin Blackrabbit
I'm planning on doing my own label. There's a lot of bursaries and grants out there for First Nations. I want to release all my own music and own 100% of it. A personal goal would be to own a all ages venue. I always have something brewing.

Brad Sysko Kidd
That sounds like a very great idea!! If you ever want some help you know how to get ahold of me  .. So anyway I come to my final question.. It is our most popular .. What would you do in a zombie apocalypse?

Carlin Blackrabbit
Forsure man, I'll need help with people like you. If a zombie apocalypse broke out I would do what Bill Murray on Zombie Land did and by mimicking zombies to survive. Oh and I heard chain mail helps too
Brad Sysko Kidd
hahaha he did play a great role in that movie lol .. Well thatks for the interview dude! I hope to see you sometime soon! Cheers!
Carlin Blackrabbit
Thanks for supporting the scene.
Brad Sysko Kidd
No worries dude! It is something that I cannot shake but I see mass worth in it!!

Show review -Shark infested Daughters!

The last time I posted a show review for the D , I didnt get a chance to say anything about the bands because I did not watch the bands very much. I mostly spoke of the D itself seeing as that was the reason I was there. This time I am talking about the bands. Shark Infested Daughters was fucking awesome! My girl had a great time headbanging her head off! We are both in 2-3 different types of pain today from last night hahaha .. Even with a more intimate crowd the place was mashing! Touring bands As The King and PunkerSlut rocked like no other! I was seriously glad I went!! If you ever get the chance go to a S.I.D Show it is fuckin great! Most of you probably have .. but when they are following a band like Punkerslut they went as hard  as they could!! I am amazingly happy and very hungover! haha Thanks guys!! Cheers! -BSK

Here is a link to the show .. All the links to the bands are on the page! Show some love!!

https://www.facebook.com/events/325883320890850/

Cheers to all the bands who made my neck hurt like shit today!! :)

Interview with Anthony J of Black Earth and DELUGE!

Interview with Anthony J From Black Earth and DELUGE!

Anthony J
hey man i'm online so whenever you wana do this!
Brad Sysko Kidd
we can do this now dude !  lemme have a smoke and grab a pint!
Anthony J
sounds good.
Brad Sysko Kidd
k im good ! Lets do this! I have always wondered about how you started with music and what you plan to do! Can you give me some insights ?
Anthony J
I started music when I was 15. I grew up loving Meatloaf and Tom Petty so I really wanted to play guitar, but my parents wouldn't let me. Sooo I bought my own guitar after working at my first job a the public library. I joined my first band at the same time with my two friends, and we all not only started a band together, but learned how to play our instruments at the same time, so you can imagine it was awful at first.
Brad Sysko Kidd
It always seems to be but when you persevere like you have , that is when you know that you are going places.  .. Just for our readers can you tell us what you have been up to lately in music? I am as you know a huge fan of DELUGE! .. But can you say anything about your other projects?
Anthony J
Well Deluge was funny because I didn't (and still don't) consider myself a real drummer, but I played a little for fun. A couple years ago they lost their drummer and since I knew them from high school they asked if I would drum for them, so I basically learned how to play the drums while in Deluge. I am just now starting to feel comfortable behind a kit. Right now Deluge is working on a new album and is recording next month. Black Earth is also currently in the studio. I don't have any other project on the go right now, except maybe I'll bust out an acoustic set one of these days. I have a bunch of acoustic song I've wrote but I've been to nervous to play them live.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Stage anxiety can be a bitch when it is solo ! What are you looking for in the future?
music wise or anything else?
Anthony J
right now I love what I'm doing and I love both my bands. I couldn't really ask for cooler people to have around. I'm working hard on discovering what makes a good song. I'm not super interested in becoming the best at my instruments, I just want to get really good at writing songs.
Brad Sysko Kidd
When you think of writing songs where do you get your influence from?
Anthony J
Well at first it was horror movies, but more recently I've just been dwelling on the past while I'm at work. Now I really like to write about days gone by.
Brad Sysko Kidd
What would your ideal show be? Local or any place else?
Anthony J
Right now I love touring, so my ideal show would probably be in a pub in a small mountain town like Ferrnie. We've played a couple great shows there, where the crowed is just in the mood to party hard. In Calgary I like playing Dickens, Verns, and The Broken City the most. The bands on my ideal show would probably be The Shotgun Dolls, The Evidence, and Forbidden Dimension.

Brad Sysko Kidd
I miss watching the Evidence! They are rad! I gotta go brotha but I have to say that I have listened to your music to the point that it would become sort of creepy hahaha .. Lastly I have to hit you with the ever so popular question ..What would you do in a Zombie apocalypse ??
Anthony J
haha I would find myself a gun and take my motorbike down to mexico.

Brad Sysko Kidd
Thanks for the interview dude! We gotta get together for a drink sometime soon!

Anthony J
totally man! Thanks so much!

Brad Sysko Kidd
no problem dude! I will post this asap. please repost! Cheers!!

Interview with Maria Joaquin of The Promethean Labyrinth and new art work in the works!!!

Interview with Maria Joaquin of The Promethean Labyrinth and new artworks!

and Now he is working on some great art that we will be chatting about!!
BSK- I have some questions rattling around in my head.
 first I want to ask about your art both music with Promethean Labyrinth and the wicked awesome art that you have recently been sharing! Where dose the inspiration come from?

MJ-With TPL, all the themes and ideas all revolve around science and wonder. Like sci fi prog metal.  Or at least I like to think so. And will most likely continue down that endless road.
As far as my recent art ventures, lately it has been space themed and I'm looking forward to diving into those ideas more. The but I love the raunchy stuff too. A lot of it comes from watching horror movies like Clive barkers hell raiser, as a kid. At the risk of
Sounding like an idiot, lately a lot of them kinda draw themselves! I don't know how to explain it. It's like I get into a trance. But a drug free one
BSK-It looks amazing to me and the detail and direction seems to be getting more and more impressive! How long normally will it take you to draw out one of your pieces ?

MJ-Awe shux! That's very kind of you!
It depends. It seems to take me too long. About 8-10hours. Which I think is overkill, but I'm still trying to get the hang of things. So I take my time. Most are only 14x11". But it's tough to fill the whole page! With more time and confidence I would like to do bigger projects.

BSK-Personally I am an artist .. but I do not have the patience for the work that you do haha . Did you go to school for art?
MJ-I don't know how I get them finished!
Nope. All self taught from collecting art being involved. YouTube videos. Things like that.

BSK-Well done dude ! I am more inspired by people that are self taught  Have you thought about what you might do with them? I saw that you will be selling prints!

MJ-Thanks!
I do plan on taking classes in the future.
I'm not sure. I started doin them to do them, releasing the demons if you will. But I've been gettin a lot if positive feedback and people interested in buying them. So we'll see.

BSK-Well I hope that this will help get those demons out to those who may want to purchase them! do you mind if I post some of them for reference?

No not at all!
Sharing is caring!

BSK-fuckin eh! . final question ... What would you do in a Zombie apocalypse ?

In a zombie apocalypse ?
I would probably be one of the first to die!
I'm terrified of zombies.

BSK-The first one to say that! haha yeah .. I would like faint and be eaten or someshit! haha .. Thanks for the interview!! that was rad! I will post it very soon!

MJ-Hahahha
My pleasure!
Cheers! .Brad Sysko Kidd

Russ Gauthier from False Flag/Lordosis/ Visceral Trance and BSK chat about Lots of things! Check it out!

Brad Sysko Kidd
Lets get this goin shall we? I am ready.
Russ Gauthier
Sure man, lemme grab another beer first haha
Ok ready
Brad Sysko Kidd
wicked haha yeah i had to grab a brew too hahahaha
k getting it started I gotta ask what it was that got you into music in the first place?
Russ Gauthier
Hey good question! I think it really came down to getting into Nirvana. Kurt Cobain was a huge influence on me and his sloppy playing was easy to reproduce at a young age haha no offense to him of course, he had a way of playing that was sloppy but noone can get close to the emotional response his vocals and guitar playing demanded.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Great response ! Nirvana knew that they sucked at first and that is what made them great!
What would you say about the Calgary music industry when it comes to playing bars or any other show?
Russ Gauthier
Well im from a smallish town in Ontario and ive heard of bands NEVER getting paid for a gig there. So its nice to actually get paid decently for a gig here, but thats usually IF you bust your ass trying to pack the place. Really makes me think how important advertising can be. If noone knows your playing...do you even exist? Haha tree falling in the woods type shit. Overall I love lots of the metal made in calgary and it can be a friendly and unfriendly place all at the same time. ive been hailed by some as a great guitar player, but ive also been told on an internet forum "if you wanna be like dimebag darrell, why dont you step in front of a 9mm?" No joke.

Brad Sysko Kidd
Thats fucked up to say to someone! . I have worked in the industry here and yeah I agree with the level of diversity and condasention between bands , but no one should down talk anyone because on their style !
On another note, What would you say to upandcoming bands if you had the chance?
Russ Gauthier
I would say be careful of small victories. Partying can get out of hand QUICK and take the whole band with it. Keep your head down and fuckin giver!!
And if that doesnt make any sense to anyone haha.... Dont stop working until youve really got what you want. Its easy to feel like youve "made it" after your first few shows
Brad Sysko Kidd
What is it like working with more than 1 band?
Russ Gauthier
it can be super intense when all three bands have gigs in the same month. I also dont really practise much drums at home other than recording demos in my little studio at home, so Lordosis and Visceral Trance give me that drum workout/practise I never seem to get on my own time. But thats probably also due to the fact that guitar is my main priority. Ive been playing for 15 years now and False Flag is a return to taking the instrument seriously again (after meggido broke up in 2010) as well as new experience doing the vocals myself.
Brad Sysko Kidd
I have been to both Lordosis and Visceral Trance shows but I have never been out to see False Flag yet . anything you want to say about you guys?
Russ Gauthier
Sure man, False Flag is the result of me not playing guitar much for a couple years, watching my bro Kris in Lordosis play an 8 string (after pushing him to get one for Lordosis). It drove me nuts in a good way only being a "drummer". So all of the frustration you hear in False Flag's sound is coming from a real place (the other side of that frustration comes from other personal problems that dont need to be discussed haha). All in all False Flag is about turning the most ugly parts my personality into a positive thing. Getting out that anger and frustration in the most healthy way. By screaming LOUD about it.
Brad Sysko Kidd
Fuckin EH! .. Now we come to the ever so diverse and popular question ... What would you do in a Zombie apocalypse??
Russ Gauthier
Hahah! Thats the best question yet! Hmmm I think id definately arm myself with a shotgun or rifle, a machete for sure, and as much food as I could carry and meet up with Kurt, bass player from Lordosis. Dude is a killer sniper and the ultimate survivalist. Im not as prepared as some people so id definately stick to the "strength in numbers" approach. Maybe pull a Land of the Dead and take over a tall building for shelter?
Brad Sysko Kidd
Great chat with ya dude  A great interview ! You are a very talented man! I am going to wrap this up but is there anything else you might want to tell the readers and friends?
Russ Gauthier
Hey thanks for the killer interview bro! And the kind words! I dont have much other to say than dont be an elitist douchebag when it comes to music,  Smoke Weed! And support your local metal (and rap) scene! Stay tuned for new False Flag, Lordosis and Visceral Trance music in 2014!!
Brad Sysko Kidd
 Cheers!  Thanks for the interview!

Syskos Show Review - The New D!

So last Friday I went down to the new D where I had never stepped foot before and Oh Shit! What a show! Not only did I run into a ton of old friends but got to finally meet some of my FB friends! The place in my opinion is a lot better than the old place down on 7ave. The Place was very well built for sound and the flow of the bar was just fuckin awesome . I did get a little confused what to do because the place stretches out to a bunch of different places to hang out. The best thing I think was the sound in the place! Fuckin'ell it was good! if you were standing at the bar or other areas it sounded like they just had the radio on just loud enough .. you go up to the stage where the bands are playing and you can rock your ears right off! To rap this up I highly recommend heading down to the D @222 7st S.W anytime ! It rocks!-BSK

This weekends shows! :D

It has been a while but I finally have your weekend shows list!
Tonight!
Across the sound is playing at Lorn Nelsons.
https://www.facebook.com/events/410030932452932/

Thrasadactyl/Satoru/Samsara are playing at the D
https://www.facebook.com/events/164158607116213/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Friday!!
Not Calgarian but pretty rad anyway is Killswitch Engage and LAMB OF GOD!@ The Big 4 building if you didnt already know. ;)

and Testament @ BMO Center.


Falling Down Fest @Verns Starts 
https://www.facebook.com/events/647447088633559/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Blackrat CD release with Gatekrashor / Fornication and The Cadavor Dog
is going on at Lord Nelsons!
https://www.facebook.com/events/1381386588761189/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Saturday!!
Men with beards !
https://www.facebook.com/events/463949667057131/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Hang The DJ @Dickens pub
https://www.facebook.com/events/545928502158620/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

BLANKFEST! III@The Blind Beggar
https://www.facebook.com/events/225731990918093/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

WAKE / Ghetto Hawk and FTFG are playing Tubby Dog on 17th
https://www.facebook.com/events/511839815573399/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Punk vs Metal round 7 
https://www.facebook.com/events/1379286312314914/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Mammoth Grove, Picture the Ocean, Brave the Weather @ The Palomino 
https://www.facebook.com/events/1430192337196679/?ref_dashboard_filter=calendar

Have fun and support local arts!!! Cheers! -BSK