"The Barking Eye"

2011 Final Year for Freq`s Music Planet

2011-02-23T13:31:00.000-08:00

After creating both the Musician's Central forum 10 years ago on Soonet and Freq's Music Planet forum the past 7 years, I've run out of time to maintain the site with all the music projects I've been currently involved with. To some the site has been entertaining while to others, it's been a thorn in their sides but for me, it's been a labour of love. To have had 2 forums exist for a total of 10 years these days is a long shot but it happened and I'm proud of that. Alas, for me though, I have so many other things I want to attempt and experiment with which leaves less time to dedicate to forums. I will most likely stop the Barking Eye blog also at the end of 2011 too just because interest in it has not been very strong. Freq's Music Planet on the other hand has had a great increase in traffic these past 3 years which makes this venture all worth while, however it`s time to move on as the saying goes. I do have other media projects in the works, one being a local music distribution site but I'm not sure yet if this is going to fly. I'm still working on the legal side of that. ;-) I have been tossing the idea of a recording studio too. Right now I have my own studio "Screaming Mosquito" but I'm considering the expansion of it to do other peoples projects. Again, not sure yet.

Right now, writing and recording original music of my own and others is my main focus and I want to dedicate even more time to that but also my graphics company Barking Eye Productions. Those 2 things are my love these days. At the end of 2011, I will decide on whether to fold this blog and the forum or pass it on to someone else. I have not given it much thought at this time. ;-) The forum gets roughly 50 to 80 hits a day which is pretty good for a forum that is not really advertised. It's just time to try other things. I will let everyone know of the forum's future when the time comes at the end of 2011.

The world is suppose to end in 2012 anyways so you won't really miss this blog or forum anyways.. HA! ;-) Still expect the same pile of goop for the remainder of the year though. :-)

Glen The Freq Thomas

The Return of "Wishbone"

2011-02-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

It's been a long few years for local rockers Wishbone since trying to get a fan base built in good old Sault Ste. Marie. Through a number of member changes in the band since the recording of their debut
CD "Making Wishes, Breaking Bones", the band hopes that 2011 will be a positive change for them.

The concept of the band was developed by singer/ guitarist/ song writer Dennis Duguay who is the main song writer in the band. He constantly writes material but he also has vision of how his material should be laid out. That is not to say other members in the band cannot contribute or even add their own material. What I mean is that Dennis writes a song that makes it easy for the listener to visualize what he's singing about. Without a doubt, the reason Wishbone has forged through so much good and bad is simply the focus of Dennis. He wants to climb and build to reach his dream, just like the rest of us. ;-)

Over the past few years the band has experienced many ups and downs, and some have cost the band in both it's reputation but also in members in the band. Of course, this happens to many bands in the business but for a band that had some great momentum on their side, the hard luck really took a chunk out of the bands forward motion. That, hopefully will change for 2011 as the band gets ready to embark on new shows and a new CD for this coming year. With all of that, even more music for yet a 3rd album is also ready developed by Dennis and Chris. Yes, returning to the drum seat is yours truly |O|, Glen Thomas but also new lead guitarist Tony Kajnar. After recording both Wishbone albums, I decided to part ways with the band because of internal problems within the band. After a year or so absence from the band and happily involved in my own projects, Dennis contacted me and asked if I would be interested in a reunion of the band or what is more appropriately called a rejuvenation of the band. Having a great love for the music and the musicianship in Wishbone, we had a meeting, talked over the problems and the future of the band and brought in my guitarist from my band Flat Stanley to fill the position of lead guitarist. The addition of Tony on guitar adds a great dimension to the band and his focus and love of original material will help Wishbone gain new ground this year. Of course, this also marks the rebirth of the rhythm section of Glen Thomas and bassist Chris Smith who are showcased on both Wishbone albums
and a few live videos on Youtube. For me, that is one of the positive parts of returning to the band. Being that Chris and I both play multiple musical instruments especially drums and bass, this is a definite plus. The other positive is to play live all the original material I had a part in creating. With the addition of Tony Kajnar on guitar, brings a new depth and variety in the musicianship, a balance between members on a personal level, but also more focus on the music during the writing process but also in our live shows. Tony is a very dedicated musician who I'm sure will help Wishbone achieve positive results this year. The clock is ticking and we shall see if this all pans out well for the fans first and foremost but also for the band. We are all pumped in the band, so let's all hope for the best. |O|

What's coming up next for Wishbone? Well, at this stage of the game we have a 2nd album already recorded and ready for pressing and will hopefully release it soon. The album has changed titles a few times but Dennis has now retitled it "Wishbone - The Kill". Expect to hear some of this material live soon. You may have heard a few songs off the album but soon you will hear all of it. On the gig front, venues have been asking about the band so look for us live soon around town when we have finished preparing our live show. We are also hoping for a spot in this years upcoming Rotaryfest for 2011. Again, we will confirm all news and shows as we get things organized.

As you might expect, band member changes always affect fans but we're hoping you like the new lineup but also the partial return of the old lineup from the original Wishbone recordings.

Just a side note. The graphics I crreated for Wishbone are for promotional use. These do not reflect the actual 2nd album cover at all. I just enjoy creating graphics for projects I'm in whether they are used on posters, CD's or just for website promotion. Speaking of websites, Wishbone has a new website online where you can hear tracks from both albums but also view photos and videos of the band along with graphics I come up with.. Please visit our new website below and feel free to spread the music of Wishbone around.

Official Wishbone Website: http://www.myspace.com/wishbonemuzic

If you are interested in buying a CD of Wishbone's first album,
email us here wishbone_muzic@yahoo.ca

All graphics are Copyright 2011 Glen Thomas (Barking Eye Graphics).

Music Industry Crisis - A Must See For Musicians and Music Lovers

2011-01-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

My friend Brian sent me the link to this documentary film Music Industry Crisis "Before the Music Dies" about the state of the music industry. I watched it and can easily relate to this being that I'm a musician. This film which is broken down into 13 parts shows how the music industry has become all about money and not about the "creative" artist anymore. It also talks about the fall of radio programming and how it has turned it's back on the "true" artist. This film is a must see for musicians and music lovers alike who feel their tastes are not being met by local radio and the music industry and why this has happened. It also brings up MTV who basically helped kill creative music and spawned the "Barbie" image of entertainers you now see these days. Enjoy this film but most of all, if you like it and care about music, you'll pass this around to as many people as you can.
Thanks...Glen "the Freq"

Music Industry Crisis Part 1
Music Industry Crisis Part 2
Music Industry Crisis Part 3
Music Industry Crisis Part 4
Music Industry Crisis Part 5
Music Industry Crisis part 6
Music Industry Crisis Part 7
Music Industry Crisis Part 8
Music Industry Crisis Part 9
Music Industry Crisis Part 10
Music Industry Crisis Part 11
Music Industry Crisis Part 12
Music Industry Crisis Part 13

New "Chris Belsito" Album "Revelation Come Late"

2011-01-11T10:48:00.000-08:00

Here's a little plug for local artist Chris Belsito. His new album has just been released. I purchased the album from the Rad Zone, one of the few supporters of local music left in this city.

Chris Belsito’s "Revelation Come Late" 2011.

The 12-track CD was produced by Miguel Gauthier at Stereo Soul Studios. The album features a wide array of sounds and styles. In addition to Chris, the album features performances by Craig West, Ed Young, Jay Case, Lindsay Pugh, Frank Deresti, Rachelle Risling, Dan Kreutzweiser, Brian Holmes and Miguel Gauthier. The biggest sound difference to me on this album is the addition of piano. Chris decided to stretch outside his normal realm of acoustic guitar to add this new dynamic to his music. Chris has always had a dark tone to his sound so adding piano seems to blend nicely with his writing style. Another added change is a little more rasp in his vocals, something not heard on earlier recordings. Could this be a Tom Waits influence? The CD is available for download on iTunes (or many of your other favorite download sites) and can be ordered online from IndiePool. It is also available by order through HMV, Chapters, and many other chains. In addition, if you live in Sault Ste. Marie, it is available at the Rad Zone and Case’s Music.

Official Website

http://www.chrisbelsito.com/

Track listing is as follows:
1. Room 702
2. Candy Counsel
3. Blueprints
4. Best Silhouette
5. Strange Logic
6. One by One
7. Silence Breaks My Heart
8. Catatonic
9. Canopy of Stars
10. My Driver Comes
11. Curve of the World
12. Can I Change Your Mind

Important Updates From "The Barking Eye"

2011-01-11T09:58:00.000-08:00

Many people have messaged me personally on various topics including some I've written about on the Barking Eye Blog and one of them is "why they can't comment" on this blog. The reason is quite simple. When I started this blog I had it open so that anyone could comment.   That was short lived as almost immediately, idiots with verbal attacks started flooding the comments. Yes, these comments were from local musicians and readers that really had nothing to say that was worthy of posting. So, because of a few bad apples, the forum is heavily screened.   Those on my friends list on Facebook and Myspace know how to get a hold of me and you can comment via email OR you can comment on links to this blog that I post on Facebook. I'm sorry but to keep this blog positive, it's best to keep comments on track, without hostility.

Next, I have had a ton of responses to the project I mentioned about a website to sell local artists music.
Yes, I have been looking at grants to start such a site but also a main server computer base for such a project for all the material from local bands. This is not an easy business to start so I want to make sure I'm not getting in over my head with this. I am making sure if I do follow through on this that it will be a safe and secure site for local musicians to sell and promote their music.   Suggestions have been rolling in since I posted the article and all of these are welcome. A few have commented on the single song format I mentioned in the main article. The reason for single song downloads is that it allows artists that just can't afford a full blow album of tracks, to sell a single song they might have recorded. Yes, full albums will be be made available but one song at a time. This is no different that "CDnow". I have looked at access to downloading an entire album in ZIP and FLAC formats but I'm still not convinced on it. High quality MP3's seem the most logical. Single song formats seems the easiest but it also seems to help the "little guy" sell a single song if that's all they have to promote. Some artists never get to the full album stage. I hope that makes sense. Details of the progress of my venture will follow in future posts. Stay tuned. ;-)

I must clarify for some that "The Barking Eye" is a simple blog dedicated to my thoughts and opinions about the local music scene. Some stories may be about current artists and some are from our cities past music scene. The topics I write about are ones that interest me. I apologize if they don't interest you. ;-) Some feel I should be talking about more current topics and more mainstream artists. I've also taken heat for not writing about Lop Lops and a few other bars or artists. First, let me say that there are bands and musicians in this city that never get written about and there are some from the past that put out music that again, never got written about.  Forgotten bands and lost music. That alone, interests me to search these artists out and talk about them. As for venues like Lop Lops and others, I will simply say that they are always in the media spot light and so are their regular artists. I want to promote those that the media seems to ignore, miss or forget about. Lop Lops has been great for many local artists as have some of the other bars but there are artists that just can't get their feet into these establishments and again, those are the ones that interest me. Please do not take my blog the wrong way. I love to support local talent but I'm really after supporting the underdog. Other blogs like Sault Metal Scene have the underground metal scene covered and I'd like to in some way shape or form help the other local music styles find a voice in local media. ;-)

Lastly, whether my comments or opinions tick you off or make you think, they are still my opinons so all you have to do is take them with a grain of salt as the saying goes. If you disagree, that is fine. If you enjoy what I talk about, that is fine too. Everyone is entitled to an opinion and so I voice those on my blog and forum.  That does not mean you have the right to attack my opinions on my blogs or forums.
It also doesn't give you the right to message me, phone me or email me with your displeasure. You can simply start your own sites and voice your opinions there. I don't have to hear everyones responses
because, like I mentioned earlier, these sites are about what's on my mind at the time and not about getting into verbal attacks or back and forth bickering. In other words, I'm not into debating. ;-) That is not the purpose of this blog nor will it ever be. ;-)

Stay tuned
Glen "the Freq"

Website For Local Musicians to Sell Their Music

2011-01-07T17:23:00.000-08:00

For quite a while now I have pondered the idea of creating a website to sell music by local Sault Ste. Marie musicians. True, we have had some support with The Rad Zone and CD Plus in selling CD's we've created but with CD Plus now gone, an online site strictly for local artists to sell their music seems like a logical next step. I have been researching this for some time and I've come to the conclusion that selling music via the MP3 format online in single songs would be best. For the past few months I have been researching how I could achieve such a site, using Pay Pal, or credit card payments per song but also the ability to download full albums. Over the next while I'm going to talk with some local musicians to see if this is something they might be interested in contributing to with their music. Right now, local bands are basically selling their music by word of mouth, or like I mentioned earlier, through a few local stores. Yes, you could put your material on "itunes" or similar sites but I'm talking your home town and giving local fans easy access to buying the material. Right now, I'm researching online storage for such a venture and the cost to get this going. This is just an idea I've been working on and I won't say for sure if it's something definite, but a few I've mentioned this to, sound interested. The music has to be strictly local musicians but that can also be ones that have relocated. The focus has to be on the local scene. On top of all of that, finding a way to advertise to the city of Sault Ste. Marie is also a task and like any advertising, it costs money. Finding a way to promote such a site so local folks can first of all find the site let alone download music is a task in its self. I will keep you posted if I take the plunge on such a site or not. I still have more research to do.

Glen "the Freq"

Attack of the Garage Bands - "Machines Dream"

2011-01-06T16:34:00.000-08:00

2011's first edition of "Attack of the Garage Bands" starts off this year with local prog rock band "Machines Dream" who have been working hard recording their debut album. Craig West (pictured right) the band's vocalist, bassist and second guitarist was nice enough to let me invade the band's rehearsel and recording lair which is situated in an attic space of a beautiful old war time house. Craig West has been a staple in the local music scene for many years and an accomplished song writer. In this new band, Craig also handles the engineering duties for this project. I talked a few hours with him and got the low down on the gear and some of the software the band uses to record which is the basis of this topic.

The first thing I noticed about Craig's studio is the atmosphere it has. The attic is roughly 3 room sections but with an open concept and every corner has something related to music. I could just tell it was a great place to create music. One area in the central room is dedicated to the main recording rig, computer and monitor speakers. Around that are guitar amps, keyboard area and a jam space for the everyone to stand. In one smaller room off the main one is the vocal room and on the other end is the drum area. Being that the band is all about progressive rock, the guys seem to address technology with open arms. With that said, I noticed that electronic drums were being used for the album. The kit which is a Roland TD4 set, just relays the midi data to the recording computer in which Toontrack's Superior Drummer 2 software takes over and supplies the sounds. This process eliminates the headaches of trying to achieve drum sounds from a real acoustic kit which can be a nightmare in some situations but also loud and uncontrollable in a small room. Craig says electonics are easier to record and control in their situation. Superior Drummer is quite popular amongst home studio engineers as there are unlimited combinations of drum sounds and editing you can use. The sweet thing about this software is that you can also control mic bleed in toms, snares and cymbals to help create room ambience from tight jazz situations to huge Led Zepplin sounding drums. You also get plug ins like EQ's and Noise Gates to help dial in your drum sound. Real drummers record the "samples" used by the software but it's the band's drummer playing his parts on the Roland kit that triggers these sounds through Midi. Understanding MIDI confuses many but if you just keep in mind that MIDI is control data being sent and received by hardware such as keyboards or electronic drumsets and not an actual audio sound, you will have an easier time grasping it. That sent data then triggers sounds in the software which in Craig's case is Superior Drummer. This modern technology using software products like Superior Drummer or keyboard software synths like Native Instruments is the wave of the future. The physical keyboards or electronic drums are just controllers of the software on your computer. No sounds are needed from these physical hardware devices. You just play them, it sends the data to the computer and the software and you have rich full sounds without the hassles.

The main computer rig "Machines Dream" uses is Apple which is running Logic Pro software. This is the software that allows all the multitrack recording, effects and mixing. There are so many programs to choose from and we all have our favourites but Logic Pro is a great program. The interface that brings all the sounds received by the mics and line ins and brings them to the computer is called the MOTU 828. This converts analog audio sound into digital. There are many combinations you can use to achieve this so do a lot of research and find out what suits your needs. MOTU is only one brand name. Craig tells me that some of their songs were recorded live off the floor as ghost tracks where as others were done in stages. Where tracks off the floor were used, layering of other instruments and vocals were added later. Some of the ghost tracks were so good they were actually kept and used on the final versions. He also mentions that the entire band writes together for the most part but there are a few ideas that were created on his own.

Main vocals are recorded in a small room off the main room like I mentioned earlier. The microphone used is an Audio Technica AT4033 which Craig says was formerly used in a blues club in London England and sent over to him by a personal friend. Instruments are recorded with SHURE SM57 mics and a few pencil condensor mics. Shure SM57 are an industry standard for studio and live situations. They are great on snare drums.

I noticed a group of speaker combinations in Craig's studio which included pairings of house speakers but the main recording rig utilizes Berringer Truth Monitors that handle roughly 150 watts of playback power. In reserve, Craig has a set of Tannoy 6.5 inches, and a KRK system with a sub. Many studios use multiple speaker setups just to help make sure the recordings sound good on a variety of systems for example, car, home and ghetto blaster set ups. Also used in Craig's studio are Berringer Ultragraph Pro Equalizers with the main rig. Equalizers are a much needed device in home recording. Do your homework on these before you buy.

Craig let me listen to numerous tracks the band has been working on including "Everyone Says Goodbye" which has some edgy guitar happening in it, "Mad For All Seasons" (previewed on their Facebook pag) and "Traping Stars For Solitude" to name a few. My first impression was the dynamic factor of the music. There is a lot of depth to their music. My impressions of what I heard were simply that no one locally sounds like them and that's a good thing. Their influences to my ears are from bands like Alan Parsons Project and Pink Floyd for starters. Finding an audience locally might take a bit of time but in my opinion, the local music scene is due for a change and you never know, "Machines Dream" might be leaders in the direction people may want to explore. I know for me, their music is a breath of fresh air over what is out there currently. The musicianship is top notch and the material is well thought out and well written. I wish more bands took the care in writing as these guys seem to be doing. Another key fact to this bands recordings are that they aren't afraid to use layers of instruments. Keyboards are featured heavily in a lot of the music but acoustic and electric guitars also have magical moments. The bass and drum parts remind me of Pink Floyd and cradle the songs beautifully throughout some of these 8 to 10 minute epics. The material is very experimental and it appears to me they are trying to give each instrument a chance to shine in each composition while not taking away from the lyrical content. Yes, I like to call their efforts "music that makes you think".

I'm not sure when the album will be completed but I do know you won't be disappointed by the product and I know first hand these guys are puting a lot of time and effort into this judging by the tracks I've heard. Thanks to Craig West for letting me pluck his brain for this article, letting me visit his studio,but most of all letting me hear the original material of the upcoming Machines Dreams album.

The idea of these articles for my topic "Attack of the Garage Bands" is to simply help those starting out in music to get into writing and recording their own material but to also give some insight into what certain bands use gear wise and software wise to aid you in building a home studio of your own.

Glen "the Freq"

Flashback Attack # 3 !!!!!!

2011-01-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

Starting 2011's Flashback Attack series is a killer local band that consisted of some of the Sault's most stellar musicians all wrapped up in really nice, neat suits. Yes, the band that should have had a stronger following but slipped through the holes in the local music scene were known as "Big Suit". The band consisted of guitar greats Jay Case and Brian Oja who also handled most of the vocals, drummer powerhouse Ed Yound who also sang and local bass player legend George "the Rav" Ravlich. George would later be replaced by Frank Deresti on bass. The band came from a number of defunct bands like Crankshaft and The Crank Shop. Big Suit's mission was to play all original rock material on their gigs but like most local acts find out, that doesn't get you a lot of gigs so the shows were few and far between. I had the pleasure of seeing the band live a few times and they were an extremely tight band with no lack of music chops.The band wrote and recorded one CD simply called "Big Suit" , released May of 2005 at a release party show at the Galazy Cinema from which their killer tune "Big Man on the Motorway" quickly became a fan
favourite. The band's song also made it to an "extreme video" release for snowmachining and or downhill skiing. I have no listing of the actual title. Big Suit officially went on hiatus in 2009 but do get together for the rare reunion show. Band members are spread out into other projects these days but rumours have it they had written enough material for a 2nd album. Time will tell if they release this material. All links to their old website and sound files are long gone and officially dead. Posted below is a video presentation of the band's song "Big Man on the Motorway". ENJOY!

New Song "One Finger Groove" by Glen the freq Thomas

2011-01-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

To start the 2011 year off on a song writing note, I have recorded a new song called "One Finger Groove" that will be free to download at the link below for a short time. The tune is a rock song with just a taste of prog thrown in for good measure. Just click the play button to listen to it and if you like it and want a copy, just hit download. It's all free.

Download the new song "One Finger Groove" by Glen "the Freq" Thomas at the link below.http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_6594807

New Year 2011, New Stories, New Music

2011-01-03T11:17:00.000-08:00

First, Happy New Year to all Barking Eye followers out there in internet land. I know updates on this blog are not regular and probably won't be just because I have so much on the go but I do hope you hang in there for the topics I do post. Lots of stuff is in the works for the coming weeks and months so please be patient.

Coming in the next few weeks are:

1. New Episodes of "Attack of the Garage Bands" featuring the band "Machines Dream"
2. New music news on local artists Kalle Mattson, Mike Cliffe, Glen Thomas, Jim O'leary and more.
3. News of a possible local music scene download site for local bands only may be in development.
4. Show case on a few local photographers that cover musicians featuring Brian Tremblay, Donna Hopper and a few others
5. A history of some of the local music venues that have come and gone over the years
6. A story on why Sault Ste. Marie Ontario has no true rock radio station
7. Flashback stories on local guitarist Frank Adamo and the long lost album he released many years ago and also the band "Big Suit" and their only CD release.
8. Plus lots of other insight and gossip around ye old music scene involving new bands and band break ups.
9. The truth surrounding the rumour that Basswerx Studios is now making a trial run with recording.
10. Story on sound systems and why local bands have faultered in using them.

Stay tuned!!!

Glen "the Freq" Thomas

The Sault's Prog Rock Scene???

2010-11-20T18:54:00.000-08:00

First, what is Prog Rock? Well, it's short for "progressive rock" and quite simply it's music that in most cases incorporates songs with odd time signatures, technical structures with many parts, extended lyrical story lines, extended instrumentation just for starters. Of course, that is not always the case and there are prog songs that are short. Some prog rock music is based on concepts like for example Rush's 2112, or Queensryches Operation Mind Crimes. Bands that you may or may not know as prog rock are "Yes, Rush, Saga, The Jelly Jam, Platypus, Marillion, Dream Theater and many more. My favourite band Porcupine Tree has introduced prog rock to a new generation and is amazingly popular at this point in time.

So, what does the Sault have to offer in prog rock music? Well, to be quite honest, not much, HOWEVER, there are a few bands that have ventured into the prog rock arena locally. Recently I came across the band "Machines Dream" that will be making their live debut November 27 at Lop Lops. The members of this band are as follows, Keith Conway: Guitar, Vocals, Ken Coulter: Drums Brian Holmes: Keyboards, Bass, Craig West: Bass, Guitar, Vocals. Machines Dream has invaded Facebook and here is a bio snippet from their site.

"Three of the four members had played together before, in 2008 at a one-off Christmas show, performing a bunch of covers by bands such as Roxy Music, Pink Floyd, Gary Numan, and others.

In early 2009, bass player and vocalist, Craig West recruited the other band members to work on a nice little solo album.
Craig, along with drummer Ken Coulter, keyboard player and bassist Brian Holmes, and guitarist Keith Conway began free-jamming, writing material together, and having a rather fun time in doing so. They put out an EP as Craig West Band. But it wasn't prog enough!  So screw the solo album! They renamed the band 'Machines Dream', feeling that it reflected both their sound, and their collaborative process. The group perform songs they have written, in addition to dedicating time in each performance for pure improv, creating new prog as they go."

On their Facebook site they have a song preview for a song called "Mad For All Seasons" from what appears to be an EP they have set to release. The problem folks is that Facebook does not allow linking to videos and some music audio files you post on it so promoting these types of media are useless with Facebook. So, I can't post a preview of the song here. I have sent a message to one of the band members about a possible link to the song from another source.  With that said, always consider the option like Youtube for video and audio in addition to Facebook or better yet, just use MySpace for your bands main page. It allows everything to be linked.   The song posted is quite good and the sound is also on the money. Style wise, there is a flavour of Porcupine Tree but only a taste. They have PT as an influence which is how I became interested in this local band.  Here's a link to their Facebook page but if you're not a member, you won't be able to view much. Actually, there isn't much to see on their site yet anyways. Facebook is very limited at this point in time. http://www.machinesdream.com/
Another prog rock band is the duo of Mike Cliffe and yours truly, ME! I won't go into a long bio of the band but I will simply say that Mike and I have a common love for technical music and we always like thinking outside the box of mainstream music.   Our song "Dog's Breakfast" (preview video below) has odd time signatures and a little over the top musical expression with a little edge thrown in for good measure. Cliff and I and a few others will be involved in a project in the near future that involves a Disney connection. ;-) No details yet but when things are set to go, you can be sure I'll post about it here.   In the meantime, Mike and I have another song called "Evil Tuba" that will be released to the public soon. As always, free for your hearing consumption.

For me progressive rock, jazz and jazz fusion have always influenced my own playing and musical tastes. I will be honest in saying that basic rock, metal and country, although enjoyable to listen to, is not what I want to do creativity wise or playing wise on drums. It bores me in a lot of ways. Prog rock stretches your imagination and most of this type of music has a depth that modern radio friendly music just doesn't have.  My own solo music also has a prog vibe to it just because it's what I grew up listening to. It kind of gets in your blood. :-) When writing prog music the challenge is merging the parts to make it sound smooth and somewhat seemless. Progressive rock kinda died in the late 70's because some bands just started to stick whatever parts they could together to make these epic songs
and it just failed.   The idea of prog rock in my opinion is to take you on a journey but there has to be some type of depth. In my own case, I like to throw a little humour in for good measure.

My own songs "The Drones" has that sarcastic humour. An instrumental tune I wrote called "Crab Apple Orchard" was also written with prog intent.

Mike Cliffe & Glen Thomas - Dog's Breakfast (Video)

I'm just touching the surface of the local progressive rock underground scene. If you have any info on prog rock bands hiding in Sault Ste. Marie, drop me a line. I'd love to hear about you and your music.

Attack of the Garage Bands "Riverin"

2010-11-18T16:27:00.000-08:00

Yes kids, we have yet another installment of the "Attack of the Garage Bands" series. The purpose of this topic is to touch base with local bands that do their own home recording and the tools of the trade they use. It also gives people a chance to hear music from local musicians and support their efforts.

"Riverin" is a two piece band featuring Matt Hicks and Matthew
Clement. Matt and Matthew record their music in their own basement recording studio known as "QuarterTone Studios". The music of Riverin is what I call experimental but you can definitely hear influences of Nine Inch Nails in their songs. The production on their music is quite good and we will discuss what they used to obtain this quality along with their writing process for their material.

After a few messages back and foth between the band, here is what the band uses for gear but also the procedure they use to create their unique brand of music.

Matthew: "Well Matt and I both write the music. We start with an idea (either big or small and on any instrument we use) and just keep bouncing other ideas back and forth until we have a song.
As for gear in the studio, we use M-Audio BX5a Deluxe monitors, M-Audio Keyrig 49 MIDI Controller, M-Audio Fast Track MKII Audio Interface, Apex usb mic (soon to be replaced with the M-Audio Lunna II), Sony MDR-V150 Studio Monitor Series Headphones, Epiphone SG Special, Fender Squire P-Bass, Fender Squire Strat, Rotosound strings, and Ernie Ball Super Slinkies. Westbury 5 piece (Matt's drums), with Sabian B8s (14" hats, 14 & 16" crashes, 10" splash, 20" ride, 18" china, and an Ice Bell). With the hardware in my studio (QuarterTone Studios), I use a 2.6GHz processor, 160 gig 17" iMac with 3 gig memory, and a 13" MacBook Pro with 160 gig hard drive, 2.53 GHz processor,an 4 gigs of memory as a mobile studio. For software I use Apple's Logic Pro 8 Studio on both Macs. I also use FXpansion BFD2. First thing we do when recording, are the drums, then guitars in that order. I have been using BFD2 a lot recently because of the different plug-ins available instead of Logic. After that Matt and I go through our other tracks, consisting of bass, piano, synths, and strings. We spend the majority of our time working on synths, and keys coming up with as many different textures as we can. Then the very last thing we record, is vocals. I do my mixing, adding of plug ins and other effects. Then I go to WaveBurner (a part of Logic Studio) and do the mastering."

The guys tell me they are looking to expand to a full basement recording studio in the near future. This is always a good thing since it gives you full control over bigger and better projects. Many bands are investing in their own studios and registering their own personal "Indie" record labels. I know in my own case, my label is "Barking Eye Productions" but their are other local ones like "Murderous Butterfly Music" and Wishtunes. The new breed of garage bands want full control and that goes from the writing and recording right down to doing their own graphics and promotions. That's what makes the garage band scene so great in my opinion. These musicians achieve full creative control and their music actually gets noticed.

Here is a short bio of the band Riverin:

Formed in 2009, in Sault Ste. Marie Ontario, Riverin consists of two former members of Dirty Virgin. Matt Clement and Matt Hicks met in 2006 when Hicks joined Dirty Virgin. After
a few years off and on with Dirty Virgin, Clement left while Hicks stayed in the band for a
while later. Hicks and Clement remained in contact and decided to start a project together.
They wanted to make an original sound, with an original feel. Putting together elements
from their heroes, Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, Motley Crue, Guns and Roses, among
others they formed Riverin. The music contains elements of the standard instruments such as
drums, bass, and guitars and others like piano, synthesizers, orchestral pieces, and other
various instruments that the guys wanted to put together to create an original sound. The
bands EP RIVERIN, which was recorded at Hicks’ QuarterTone Recording Studio in Sault Ste.
Marie, is almost finished, and will be released soon. The band is looking for members to
fill out the roster and get the band on stage.

Please support this local band by visiting their official Myspace Website below.
http://www.myspace.com/riverinonline

Now, for a chance to listen to the "Riverin" brand of music, check it out below.

Blackmeat Powder

2010-11-13T16:58:00.000-08:00

Blackmeat Powder is a heavy rock metal band based out of Peterborough Ontario Canada featuring
Blain Konkle - Vocals --- Sully McMahon - Bass --- Brad Davidson - Drums --
- Rob Bowler - Lead and Rhythm Guitars --- Paul Tikkanen - Lead and Rhythm Guitars.
(Paul Tikkanen is not in the photo above)

Here is a brief bio from their website:

"After a failed attempt to resurrect another band and not wanting to lose momentum or the musical bond they had formed, Sully McMahon, Blain Konkle, and Rob Bowler walked away from the project, and started their own band. since that time, they've been recording in rob's apartment, affectionately known as the argyle abyss, losing things, relaxing, drinking beer, and laughing. they started looking for a drummer and finally found one in Brad Davidson, an old friend of the guys. last, but not least, they brought in another guitarist, Paul Tikkanen, to bring the edge to the band, that final piece of the Blackmeat Powder puzzle. hopefully by Christmas 2010 they will stumble thru the empties with the first Blackmeat Powder cd for all to hear!!! "

Paul Tikkanen is a local Saultite that left the city years ago to follow his musical dreams in original music. He had his own band "Tikkanen" for a number of years and released a very solid debut album with that band. After that, he was in numerous projects before taking a 13 year hiatus. He returns in

this new band "Blackmeat Powder" that have been rehearsing for roughly a year and are working on both original songs and covers. They recently posted videos on Facebook but unfortunately, those vids can't be linked to news blogs like this. They are reportedly doing a show soon and hopefully, I'll have vids from it to post them on The Barking Eye In the meantime, you can visit their official Myspace page at the link below to get a taste of the band.

The band definitely has roots in classic rock and metal. http://www.myspace.com/blackmeatpowder

Here are song samples from the band. One song is called "Mulletboy"and it reminds me of Rush's "I Think I'm Going Bald". It's also got a little humour in it which reminds me of the writing style of the band Max Webster. Listen to it and other tunes at the link below.
Music by Blackmeat Powder

Paul and I spent some time in our youth writing music in a band called "Thansis Colle". At the time, no one wanted to hear original material and I remember doing a gig where we actually had the plug pulled on us because they hated what we were doing but honestly, that band was a highlight to my career and to this day I love the music we created. Paul is a very talented guitarist and definitely has a style that is unique. At the time we were together, no one sounded like him and that really got me interested in playing drums in his band.

Stay tuned for vids of "Blackmeat Powder" as soon as I get them. ;-)

FLASHBACK ATTACK #2!!!!

2010-11-08T00:05:00.000-08:00

Dale Corcoran on the left - Tim Harrington on the right (band-"Vandl")

I have a solid installment for Part 2 of the Flashback Attack series brought to you by The Barking Eye Blog. One of the most talented musicians locally in the past few decades has been bass player Tim Harrington. Most these days may have heard his name but have no idea of what Tim has done. I'll give you just a brief history. Locally, Tim became well known as the the bass player for the band "Riggy Zomba" that featured local singer Dale Corcoran, guitarist Chris Lloyd, keyboardist Howard Bertolo and drummer Augustino DeMartinis. This band would later become the well known touring act Vandl with a few member changes along the way. Tim would later play bass for Lee Aaron, Aldo Nova, The Works and a band that should have made it but didn't called "Wall of Silence".

"Wall of Silence" put out one album called "Shock to the System". The album is quite good and production is killer but unfortunately it was released in the doom year 1992 when grunge rock sent many melodic rock bands to their early graves. "Wall of Silence" was one of them. The album is worth a listen if you can find it but today is your lucky day because some sweet lovable music lover has posted most of the album on Youtube so sit back and enjoy a few tracks from the album that includes the solid bass playing of local artist Tim Harrington. Other band members include Brian Malone lead vocals, Jim Huff guitar, Stuart Zaltz keyboards and Scott Lucas drums.

As a special bonus for all those doubting the old Freq about Tim being with Aldo Nova, I've added 2 videos that include not only one local Sault musician named Tim Harrington but a second local talent in videos with Aldo Nova. The other being keyboardist Howard Bertolo who played with Tim in the band the Works and Vandl. Now if that wasn't enough I've added some ultra rare 1991 live footage of an Aldo Nova show featuring Tim Harrington along with Phil X.

Here is the track listing for the Wall of Silence Album - "Shock to the System"

1. Shock to the System

2. Edge of a Heartbreak
3. It's Only Love
4. Last Nite
5. Blood Is Thicker Than Water
6. Addicted
7. Prove Your Love
8. Skin and Bones
9. Stop the Rain
10. Nobody's Hero

And now, a few songs for your listening pleasure.

Wall of Silence - Shock To the System

Wall of Silence - Addicted

Aldo Nova - Medicine Man

Aldo Nova - Blood On The Bricks

LIVE FOOTAGE of Aldo Nova with Tim Harrington and Phil X on guitar 1991
"Fantasy"

New Videos from 4 Local Artists

2010-11-07T20:57:00.000-08:00

The first batch of videos are from the local band called "Cherry Crush" featuring musicians;
Taryn Bugyra - Vocals
Jules Cote - Vocals, Guitar
John Amendola - Bass, Vocals
Justin Marandola - Drums

The band has more of a dance music style than a rock one which is what I thought they were going to be but none the less, the band is good. I'm sure they'll be quite popular once they have a few more gigs under their belts. Here is a taste of the band via videos from their Youtube group. The vids really show how strong Cherry Crush is vocally with Jules and Taryn sharing lead.

Cherry Crush Youtube Videos

Next, we have a new video by Sonny Boy Mick. Sonny Boy Mick is local singer/ guitarist and former Saultite, Steve McPhail. The song is called "Nobody's Better Than You" and it can be viewed at this link. "Nobody's Better Than You Video". The song and video are well produced and the music has a very folk rock flavour to it. I did a write up on Steve a while back so you might want to check the archives on the Barking Eye for that.

From Sault Ste. Marie Michigan we have a few live videos from the band "The Hixx" featuring the merging of members of the old band "Mama's Boys" and "Hogan's Goat". The band plays classic rock with a taste of country thrown in. Local guitar great and owner of Grooves Music, Gary Hatch plays lead guitar in this band and some lead vocals on the second video. The band has been playing steady over the river. Check out a video of "the Hixx" doing the Cars song "Let's Go" here >> "The Hixx - Let's Go Video" and also the band doing the classic C.C.R song "Born on a Bayou"

Last, we have a video by Mike Cliffe, local guitarist and songwriter. This is a video Mike created for the song "Dog's Breakfast" that he and I recorded a little while ago. The song is an instrumental experimental tune in the style of 70's Prog rock. View the video at this link.
Dog's Breakfast Video by Mike Cliffe

Enjoy!

Glen "The Freq"

There Were Four

2010-11-02T10:51:00.000-07:00

Local singer/ musician Dale Corcoran, who now lives in the U.K. has a new project in the works and it is called "There Were Four". This is a Beatles Tribute act but one that showcases the Beatles solo work and also a renunion that never happened to the real band. "There Were Four" are currently rehearsing and recording demos for their promotional ads and will hopefully be touring soon. The band apears to be managed and promoted by Accent Entertainment based out of the United Kingdom.

The lineup of the band is as follows:

Dale Corcoran as Paul McCartney

Shaun Friedrich as John Lennon

Glen Knowler as George Harrison

Max Frudd as Ringo Starr

Here is a small description of the project from information found on their official Facebook site.

"Just to let you know a bit about what we at "There Were Four" are all about. We are not your typical "Beatles Tribute" band, we are a large scale production show, featuring the solo careers of each of the Beatles, culminating in a "reunion that never was". It is shaping up to be one of the most unique and professional shows on the theatre circuit. We are looking forward to bringing some joy and happiness, as well as "Beatle memories" to as many people around the world as we can.

Peace and Love

From The Cast of "There Were Four"

I've heard a few of their demos that are posted on their Facebook page and they sound pretty good and Beatle-ish. Hopefully the will have a complete website done soon with video and audio samples. The samples available on their Facebook site cannot be linked to this site so for now, you all have to suffer to hear them OR you can become a fan on their site and get a taste. :-)

Glen "the Freq".

The Fall of Another Great CD Joint :-(

2010-10-31T04:35:00.000-07:00

As one of CD Plus's employees Darren put it, "it's the end of an era". After serving our local Soo community for well over 10 years, the franchise known as CD Plus has closed it's doors in good ole Sault Ste. Marie along with other communities, leaving all us fans of rare and obscure music and movies to fend for themselves. Some may not remember the excellent CD shop known as Mr. Disc back in it's day but they were with owner Todd Gordon, the leading CD establishment specializing in getting the public rare material to sink their teeth into. I LOVED that store but with the internet, piracy and used CD's selling so cheaply, Mr. Disc closed it's doors some years ago. To fill that huge void, CD Plus made it's appearance in 2 locations locally but was later merged to the Cambrian Mall location as a single outlet. Jake and the great staff there were the best and my own experiences with the staff and the material they could get for me were nothing shy of excellent. I think Jake spent more time researching rare music and movies at home than he did at work so he could be on top of the game when dealing with customers at work. You got to know the staff so well that in my own case, they knew my tastes and any new release by artists I loved were already ordered and sitting there waiting for me. It felt like I was on cruise control. They also promoted my own bands by letting us sell our CD's through their shop and put up posters. My biggest enjoyment was buying old monster movies from them as Jake was on top of classic horror, sci fi and monster films. All that is gone now, leaving us huge music and movie collectors like myself to deal with crappy square box jungles like Walmart where you can't special order anything but worse, nothing underground in the way of music is presented. I can only say that I am stunned by CD Plus pulling the plug on our local store and wish Jake and staff the best. Many thanks to all of them for feeding our addictions with truly rare media. I've not talked to Jake yet but I hope that maybe, just maybe, a new independent CD and DVD joint might arise from one of these employees. You just never know. We can dream can't we? :-) Until then, thanks for all the great service, friendships, movies and music. Best of luck to all of you.

Glen "the Freq".

Wishbone's 2nd Album Preview

2010-10-05T16:45:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a year easy since I recorded drum tracks for Wishbone's second album which was supposedly called "St. Misery". I've heard it may have changed and I've also heard that they're recording Wishbone 3 and abandoning Wishbone 2. These are rumours of course. The fact is that it took me a lot of effort to get a copy of the album the band and I worked hard on and recorded. I also recorded their first album plus did all the graphic work for it, their website and tons of other promotional things. Like many bands, we had a bad divorce and getting a "deserved" copy of Wishbone 2 was not happening even though I had easily earned it. So through my own connections I finally got a copy. I present you 5 songs from the 12 song album that if the band does get their shit together and release it properly like the first album, it will be worth a listen. Personally, I'm proud of the material and how it turned out and the band played a lot better on this offering than the first. So here's a taste of the long awaited Wishbone 2 album which at the time I recorded it, was called "St. Misery".

The Messenger by Wishbone

Johnny Fisco by Wishbone

Race For Time by Wishbone

Devil's Dancing Shoes by Wishbone

Highwire by Wishbone

Enjoy!!

Glen "the Freq"

Flashback Attack !!!

2010-10-01T22:48:00.000-07:00

Yes, if you haven't noticed already, I enjoy digging into the archives of our local music history and presenting many artists that most have not heard of, or haven't heard of in a long time. I decided to create this section of the Barking Eye blog to showcase those long forgotten musicians who helped develop the local Sault music scene. Please pass this page on to your friends as we reflect on
some very talented individuals who continue to write, record and perform music.

First on the list is guitarist, singer, songwriter Steve McPhail. It's been a long time since Steve has played the local music scene but there was a time his band Edison Slave, or Bedrock were common names throughout the local scene.   Edison Slave enjoyed a long loyal following here and I'm sure most fans miss them.   Steve hit the road with Bedrock but it wasn't too long after he was in the band "Total Stranger" with musicians from outside of the Sault. Total Stranger went on to record 4 albums and toured throughout Canada. I was lucky enough to see "Total Stranger" on 3 or 4 passes through the Sault on their tours. Now a days, Steve plays in the band "Sonny Boy Nik" (http://www.myspace.com/sbmmusic).   The song I present today is from the first self titled "Total Stranger" album. The track is called "Things You're Missing". It was released around 1985 if memory serves me correctly. Steve sings lead vocal and plays guitar on this song.

"Total Stranger-Things You're Missing"

Second, we have Frank Rodi, an extremely gifted guitar player who still has many fans around the Sault. Frank is also a solid vocalist and song writer but it's his guitar playing that got people's attention. Frank played in numerous local bands in the late 70's and 80's but he eventually found songwriting and original material to be his main focus. The Frank Rodi Project was basically Frank, his material and a selection of guest musicians who helped him create and record his music.   How do I know this? Well that's easy. I was the drummer on 2 of Frank's first recordings with the "Project".   2 songs were done during the first sessions. One called "Jimmy" and the one I showcase today on this first Flashback Attack installment. This song is called "Candy".   These 2 songs are more commercial sounding as Frank was shooting for a Journey/ Boston flavour at the time.   The musicians on this recording are as follows: Frank Rodi - guitar and lead vocals, Gigi Micelli on backing vocals however he sings lead on the song called "Jimmy". Both have similar voices. Bass duties were Dama Chandamo, keyboards Tony Bafone (I'm not quite sure on his name) and me, Glen Thomas on drums. We rehearsed the 2 songs in my basment one night and recorded the next day at the now defunct Satelite Sound Studios. All I can say is that is was a lot of fun. The last local band Frank was part of before moving away from the Sault was called "Holy Diver". Frank still records today and you can visit his website at (http://www.myspace.com/rodiproject). Here now, is the song "Candy" by the Frank Rodi Project. Time frame on this tune eludes me but I'll say late 80's early 90's.

"Frank Rodi Project - Candy"

Now for a really rare treat. Third, we have local vocalist Paul Pozzebon.   Paul back in the 80's was one of the Sault's finest rock singers. Paul was hired into a later version of my band Driver and we took 2nd place in a battle of the bands at the Back Door bar many years ago. We were the only Canadian band in the show. From there, Paul and I connected again in a band called "Hostage" and we recorded a song called "Too Much".   That song is rare but not as rare as the one I present today. Paul was always busy writing and recording and I just happened to find this ultra rare recording of his song called "In the City".  Guest musicians on this recording are not known to me. It's been too long and there is no references to go off of.   It does sound like Frank Rodi on guitar but that's a guess. It is Paul singing on the track. He is the one that gave me this song almost 2 decades ago.   Paul was right into Judas Priest at the time and you can hear a little of that influence in this song. After the band "Hostage" folded, Paul just vanished and I have no clue where he went. He seemed to have dropped from the music scene altogether. I will say honestly that probably only a handful of this recording exists today so enjoy one of the Sault's finest rock singers, Paul Pozzebon and his song "In the City" here on the Barking Eye's Flashback Attack.

"Paul Pozzebon - In the City"

I hope you enjoyed the first addition of this series. Stay tuned as there are more rare tunes coming soon.

Glen "the Freq"

Mike Cliffe - Glen Thomas Project

2010-09-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months local guitarist/ song writer Mike Cliffe and I have been working on music material that we are releasing at random for anyone who cares to listen to it. Mike and I have mutual friends but oddly have never met. Our music creations together happen purely through the internet. If Mike has an idea, he sends it to me and I add parts or if I have a suggestion, he retools the idea. It's been a fun experience. We use similar software that allows us to exchange sound files which we place in our own specific software. It sounds more complicated than it is. The result is the ability to create music with other people without ever leaving your own house or moving one tiny bit of gear. I LOVE IT. Mike and I have musical tastes that are what I'd like to call "out of the box". This simply means, it's not your normal sounding music. Mike and I have a common theme in our individual original music that requires a listener to be open minded as this "stuff" is not always like the warm fuzzy music you hear every day on the radio. It is what you might call "abstract art". We have done a few songs together with more in the works and we've also included another online artist "Karin Beckerus" for vocals and keyboards on a song called "Bad Regime". Karin has written tons of material and also enjoys collaborations with other musicians.

Our newest song is called "Dog's Breakfast" and features Mike Cliffe on guitar and guitar synths and me, Glen Thomas on drums, bass and keyboards. The song is based on an idea by me for a prog rock song with an old 70's flavour. We wanted some odd time signatures in it and some tempo changes. A lot of prog rock songs back then sounded like a bunch of short stories tied together to make one giant song. This is kind of that idea but squashed into a 4 minute song. The guitar riffs are Mike's creative edge as I suggested he try and come up with some tight machine type rhythms for a certain part. Mike spends a lot of time writing so he can come with an idea in the blink of an eye. It's uncanny. :-) We attained the machine type rhythm by having the drums and bass follow the guitar riff for each picking part Mike did. Sure, we could have made it even tighter like todays "perfect" sounding music but honestly, we wanted to attain some realism here. ;-) To soften the edge just a bit but add some growl, I played keyboards over top of this part using some great Native Instruments software that produces one of the best sounding Leslie "Deep Purple" like organ sounds you can buy without dropping thousands of bucks on a real one. |O| Mike added some underlying guitar synth sounds in the background to help blend the parts together and again, give it the 70's prog rock feel and sound. Neither Mike or I know how the finished product is going to sound as we put it together.. We just send ideas back and forth and see if they work. We add and subtract parts and see what clicks or for the most part, sounds interesting together. ;-)

We hope you enjoy the music we create and we do understand if you don't "get" what we're doing. Creating this music is just a lot of "brain candy fun" for Mike and I and if it's not your cup of tea, that's totally fine. Most music in the progressive rock style has to find it's audience and it's not always easy. If you like what we're doing, let us know as there will be more music coming soon.

Here is the link to our 2 latest songs.

Dog's Breakfast - Mike Cliffe & Glen Thomas
http://www.reverbnation.com/tunepak/2897543

Bad Regime - Mike Cliffe, Karin Beckerus & Glen Thomas
http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/song_4671010

Beatlemania On Tour - The Beatles Experience Sept 15-2010

2010-08-31T01:06:00.000-07:00

Ok. This is a bit confusing but from what I understand, this particular tribute band is called "The Beatles Experience" and the tour is called "Beatlemania on Tour". Not to be confused with the actual Tribute act "Beatlemania" that played here last winter. I think I have this correct. There are soooo many Beatles Tribute acts out there and I've listened to quite a few and I'll say that some are just bad.   The original "Beatlemania" was great but that branched out into a franchise with numerous bands of the same name, touring the world. I saw the original which is by far the best. Another good one is "Rain" which again has a long time history of a top quality show.   The band that's coming here in September is ok. Not the best. Their videos on their site don't do them justice but if you like the Beatles and their music then September 15 at the Kiwanis Theatre at 8 p.m. in Sault Ste. Marie is for you. Tickets are $39-59.   I love the Beatles so I'll probably venture out to this show.
You can visit the the bands website here. http://www.thebeatlesexperience.net/   I always hope Tribute acts "look and sound" like the originals but lately, most have given up looking like them. Kinda sucks really ;-)
The one thing that is cool is that this Paul McCartney plays a left handed bass like the original Paul. That is rare.   See ya there

Freq :-)

Errol Monchka - Local Artist Showcase #1

2010-08-30T23:23:00.000-07:00

Born in the heart of the great Lakes, Sault Ste. Marie Ontario Canada where he resides with his son Noah. Errol Monchka has made a career illustrating commercial illustration. Being able to create an array of styles, this talent has been a great asset to corp. art directors. Being able to illustrate extreme photo realism to powerful graphics, there is no end to the direction Errol has been able to enter. When assignments slow down, you can usually find Errol working on some amazing self promotional work. Presently Errol has been working on illustrations for Play Station and has raised the bar for digital creations. Errol states, "I believe artists should constantly challenge themselves to create better work every piece they create." "Don't be afraid to push the limit of your skills." Errol is always willing to correspond with fellow artists to discuss everything from airbrushing, digital art, to marketing. Feel free to contact Errol anytime.

Errol's work has been viewed by many local Sault folks as they pass the Wardlaw gas station on Wellington Street West. The entire building was airbrushed years ago. Before that, he airbrushed the interior of the old Eastgate bar in florescent coloured murals that stood out with the aid of black lighting. His paintings took up entire walls in the bar. His most famous piece is one of the Edmund Fitzgerald ship that was lost in a tragic storm. This print can be purchased online ..."HERE".

Errol for a time was involved in airbrushing T-shirts with famous music and film stars as the theme. I saw a few when he first did them and they were stunning. He recently did this one of Bon Jovi below.

One of my personal faves of Errol's work is this one below that took Errol nearly 5 years to complete.

More local artist showcases are coming soon, so stay tuned.

Glen "the Freq"

Attack of the Garage Bands "Tym Morrison"

2010-08-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

Here is another installment of Barking Eye's "Attack of the Garage Band" series. This time around, we feature local guitarist/ singer/ songwriter, Tym Morrison. The focus of this series is to showcase what local musicians use to record their original music which means, the gear, techniques, software, etc. Tym is a well established local musician who basically crafted his music himself playing all the instruments himself and or programming drum parts or using drum samples. Here is a run down of what Tym used throughout his recordings.

Tym Morrison:

1. I didn't have a lot of gear at that time but this is what I had when I recorded the solo project CD in 2006. A Peavey classic 50/50, Peavey Rockmaster, Peavey stereo cab, Roland gp8, Alessis Microverb 4, Alessis Midiverb 2, my computer with the Soundblaster Platimun card, Shure sm58 and sm57, Silvertone Acoustic 6 string.

2. I usually lay down keyboards and drums first ported from Fruity Loops (http://flstudio.image-line.com/), then once in Cakewalk (http://www.cakewalk.com/), I lay down the guitars next, then bass and lastly vocals.

3. Most songs I write on guitar first, but for example, the "Only Linux" song I came up with, I did the drum beat first and wrote the guitar riff around it.

4. I did all my recordings in my apartment. I was working on many songs at the time, and still have many unfinished yet partially recorded projects from even before that time that I need to finish lol. I still record everything the same way now. I like the creative control of not having to pay someone else by doing it at home.

5. Cakewalk Music Creator, Fruity Loops 3 (I now use the latest version) Sound Forge, Music Match (to convert to MP3). That's all the software I used back then , and I use a lot of the same software now, but I always check out other recording software. I like Cakewalk and continue to use it because I'm so familiar with this software.

6. All drums are sequenced in Fruity Loops, but I use my own drum samples that I got from an old site years back called "16bitsamples.com", where I found lots of cool stuff. I downloaded tons of drum machine wav files and ended up using all these maple kit wav file recordings.

7. I did everything myself and at one time, I had considered getting a singer for the project, because my voice was not that strong back then, but I'm glad I did it myself.My voice should be a lot stronger on my next CD.

8. This first Cd was a learning process for me. I know now that good microphones are key, in quality recordings. Also, compression is important to get good volume levels. But this was my first time trying to record a CD, and it didn't turn out too bad. I have better microphones and gear now and the next CD will be much better, but I'm content with my first attempt. Practice makes perfect.

www.tymmorrison.com Tym's CD, and many other recordings

www.cavemanmorrison.com

Note: Like Tym, I use Music Match software to convert my wav files to MP3's however, the Music Match software company was absorbed by Yahoo and is now defunct but you can still use older versions of the software here. Older Music Match Software

Tym and his band are in a transition period as they change drummers but he is always around the local music scene doing acoustic shows when his band is not playing.

Big thanks to Tym for the input on his music creation. Stay tuned for more of the "Attack of the Garage Band" series coming soon.

Glen "the Freq" Thomas

Stolen Music Gear Alert...!!!!

2010-08-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Local musician Josh Norling had 2 of his saxophones stolen from outside of the Solo Trattoria Restaurant
yesterday. Please read his personal message posted earlier today on Sootoday.

"To whom it may concern, My name is Josh and I'm a musician. I was performing at a benefit last night at Solo Trattoria, and just before I left the gig my friend's car was broken into and two of my saxophones were stolen. I'm a music major in university and performing with these saxophones is how I make my living. If all the SooToday.com readers could keep a lookout for an LA Sax tenor and soprano saxophone in a Reunion Blues gig gag I would greatly appreciate any information. Also if any pawn brokers, and music stores could keep an eye out for them and notify the authorities. Thank you. I can be reached anytime at 1-705-919-4133, I can also be reached at 759-1556.
Sincerely,
Josh Norling"

Musician theft unfortunately has been a growing problem in the local Sault area and a number of people I know including myself have experienced the horror of having your prized instruments ripped off. Simply put, if a thief wants your stuff badly enough, they will get it and that doesn't matter if it's in a bar, house, car etc. You can take precautions and yes folks, there is insurance for musicians. Here are a few things to know.

1. Be aware that normal household insurance will normally only cover $2500 worth of music gear. If you want more covered, like myself, you must pay extra for it and it must be on it's own insurance policy.   This only covers gear that normally stays in your house. If you want to use certain gear on gigs, then you will need insurance that covers your gear on tour.   The world insurance leader for musicians is "Lloyd's of London" (http://www.lloyds.com/). Even our local Musician's Union has insurance plan info through this firm.   Of course, if you want to play, you've got to pay. Most insurance for your gear is based on the dollar worth of your gear. For example, for every $100 worth of gear you pay $2. Serial numbers and descriptions (photos of the actual gear) are all pluses when getting insurance but also for record keeping. REMEMBER....House insurance will cover your instruments "IF" you get and pay for a separate policy but the gear can't leave the house. This is very important. Car insurance is also tricky as it will only cover so much so you have to be clear with your insurance broker on your intentions. Bottom line is, you can't replace a good quality instrument as no 2 instruments are alike.   I have insurance policies on my gear and it costs a fair amount but then again, I have quite a bit and most gear just stays at home.   It's best to be safe than sorry.

2. Bars and Venues you play will normally "NOT" cover stolen music gear as these businesses have no clue what you own and yes, you could lie about what you have. I've had friends get their entire stage of gear stolen with no insurance.   They got nothing!!!   Be aware of this ok?   The insurance companies want "proof" of what you own and if you have no proof of your gear, you're up the creek without a paddle. Create a manifest list of every nut and bolt and serial number of all your gear down to the last wire along with photos and descriptions and present it to your insurance company but also give a copy to your local police.

3. Take tons of photos, copy all serial numbers, write down accurate descriptions of your gear right down to the scratches and dents in your gear. All this leads to proving ownership of your gear. If you have no serial numbers on the gear, get an engraver and create one in a spot not noticeable to the public. If you have microphones, engrave the inside core of the mic, for guitars, engrave the wood behind the pick guard, for drums, engrave the inside of one lug on each drum. Try anything to get a serial number on your stuff if there isn't one already but even add one as mentioned just in case.

4. It is nearly impossible to get music gear back because in most cases, the people that steal it either leave town or keep it in their own house for years or dismantle it and use the parts or in most cases, sell it off to someone else. There is some hope as a few people I know have had their gear found and returned. One found his guitar on Ebay and quickly notified authorities.   One person I know, who had his guitar registered, was called by Toronto police when his guitar was found in a Toronto pawn shop. Cops always check the pawn shops for stolen gear.   His guitar was returned.

5. NEVER leave stuff in your car. You're asking for it to be stolen. If you leave it in your car, you're advertising it for a quick grab and take.   I've known numerous musicians who have suffered loss from a car break in.   Just don't leave it in a car, it's that simple unless you have someone you know stand there keeping an eye on the car. When loading your gear up at night, "NEVER" leave your gear moving vehicle unattended. Always have a spotter. If you have a Cube Van like me, back the truck tight up against a wall so as to not give access to the back draw door of the truck if it's full of gear. If they can't reach the lock, in the center of the door, you're protected.   I have heard of one instance where the thieves used a rolling car jack to jack the back of a cube van up at the back wheels, and roll the truck forward to access the back door of the cube van and steal the gear, but that to me was someone scouting the bar where this band played. Most thieves aren't walking around with a 3 ton car jack. ;-)

6. For quick one night gigs, have a used instrument that you know you won't miss if it gets stolen.   I always have 2 cheap drumsets I use for gigs I feel might have a potential theft problem. If you're doing a top gig and you need to use your best gear, don't leave it out of your site or if at least have a spotter.

7.   Never leave small things on stage like mics, capos, harmonicas, tuners, pedals, cymbals etc. You're asking for it to be stolen. You must remember thieves come in all shapes and sizes and yes some are employees in the establishments you play. Don't trust "ANYONE" in a bar. Things can be taken quickly and people you don't know hanging around your stage could be scoping your gear. Always be observant of strangers near your stage. When you're not at the bar and your gear is there, you're relying on the employees to keep an eye on your gear but the fact is, they they have their own job to do and they can't watch your stuff 24/7 so there is opportunity for thieves to steal during the day while the business is open and you're not there.

8. Always file a police report on your stolen gear. If you don't, you're an idiot and deserve to have your gear ripped off. After that, check the pawn shops, EBAY, used antique stores, local music stores, Customs, online sites that sell gear locally but also talk to people who work at the bar you played in. Find out if anyone saw someone suspicious. Yes, even check people you know, ask the question, who do you trust?

9. Cover your stage gear with black sheets.   This is a simple thing and what it does is hide what you or your
band is playing.   You'd be surprised how much you notice people uncovering big black sheets on a stage then just a person grabbing a guitar pedal.   It's like a giant flag and even bar employees can notice someone moving sheets to get to your gear.   Sounds stupid but it actually works.

It is unfortunate when a friend or fellow musician loses their gear to theft.   We all go into a unity mode and we want to get the persons responsible. In the case of Josh, the musician experiencing this today, music is his income and definitely a huge part of his life.   Musical instruments are not cheap to replace and musicians become one with the instruments they have developed their craft with. It's like getting stabbed in the heart.
I've had gear stolen and some of that were cymbals. My favourite cymbal to be honest and someone in our local community now has it in their possession without my permission. ;-)   It's a horrible experience and not one I'd wish on anyone.

Keep an eye and ear out for Josh's saxophones.    The good thing about this theft is that their aren't many sax players around so if it shows up in pawn shops, music stores etc., it will hopefully flag some awareness.

The Sault Music Scene on Facebook

2010-08-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

I came across this site a long time ago called "The Sault Music Scene" that features, for the most part, bands that played the old "Zombie -a- Go Go" non alcoholic bar that use to be on Gore Street in good ole Sault Ste. Marie. This site also features bands that use to play that bar when is was called the Centennial. Upstairs, there use to be a bowling alley and downstairs was a hall that many many bands played over the years. I girl named Anita and her sister leased the main floor to start the Zombie - a - Go Go bar which ran for quite a while. I played there quite a few times with a band called Driver and with a band called Spy vs Spy. I have nothing but fond memories of the shows there along with the owners.. There is a massive history of local bands that have played within the walls of that old building (said to be haunted ;-) and a lot of it is showcased on the Sault Music Scene's Facebook page. Over 300 photos of bands and posters of some of the Sault's most interesting music acts are posted on this site. The site was started by local drummer Don MacDonald who also graced this old establishment. You can join the Sault Music Scene Facebook page by going ........>"HERE"< Check it out, you won't be disappointed. You may just remember some of these old bands. ;-)

New Local Band "Cherry Crush"

2010-08-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, local guitarist/ singer Jules Cote has another band ready to hit the local bar scene. You may remember Jules from past bands Bangers and Mash, and Johnny Lunchbox. Advertised as a dance band, Cherry Crush features Taryn Bugyra (vocals), Jules Cote (vocals, guitar) , John Amendola (bass, vocals) and Justin Marandola (drums). Tayrn was in a band with Jeremey Salatuk (Wishbone) years ago that I believe was called "The Chosen". Definitely a solid vocalist. Jules is also a very talented musician and this pairing alone is worth checking out Cherry Crush. Taryn is the owner of the local bar Foggy Notions so I'm sure their first gig will be there. They are presently advertising on Facebook so if you want to join the Cherry Crush network of fans, visit the "Cherry Crush Facebook Page"

Northern Raceways a Concert Ground?

2010-08-12T08:09:00.000-07:00

For many years since the closing of Northern Raceways (originally 5th Line Speedway), the rumour of this great stretch of property being a concert ground has been circulating. Why you ask? It's easy to understand. This area is perfect in size for holding concerts plus it's away from the city to cause any noise problems and most of all, it has 2 access roadways to easily funnel traffic in and out.   There are a few snags however. There are people that live near this track and the noise of stock cars pretty much angered them to the point that when talk of a concert ground surfaced years ago, they went on record as saying NO to any concert ground being built. There was also a concern of property damage from concert goers. Another plus if this was to become a concert area is the fact there is a campground just down the road. It's a KOA campground and it would surely benefit from people camping there from out of town for certain events. Of course, if you weren't a concert goer, I'm sure the concert volume would discourage you. :-)

Over the years, I have mountain biked back where this old racetrack use to hold weekly events. I was also there in the hey day of racing at this track.   I submitted photos a few years ago to a Canadian racing publication dealing with "Ghost Race Tracks" around Canada and mentioned that this Northern Raceway track lay asleep, waiting for something to bring it to life again.   Some of those photos are below.   The grand stand is still standing being that it is a metal framing but the wood planking is rotted. Tons of trees have grown through the grand stands but the drag strip and racing oval still remain. Putting a huge stage in the middle of the oval with refurbished grand stands and tons of parking area along with room for food venues can easily be seen if you were to walk the area.   It's a gold mine sitting, waiting for development.

So why has it not been developed? It's puzzling since there is a lot of industry up in that area including our local city dump. There are trucking firms up there and for the most part, a handful of residential homes. Those I do believe are the key to the problem.   I do know since I was a kid, some of those homes have been bought up for businesses so it looks like one by one, houses are disappearing. Could this be the wait? When the houses are gone, then a concert ground be built? I don't know.   It's prime property so almost anything would benefit.   None the less, every summer since the U.S. Castle Farms concert grounds closed, rumours have flown about this Northern Raceway track becoming a concert ground.    I personally think it would be a great thing.   Imagine giant music festivals here? Headliners?   There's so much room that you could easily get top name acts.

There are just no definite facts on these concert ground rumours. This has gone on for decades really and nothing ever happens. Each season, the trees grow bigger and the grand stands of this old raceway dissolve a little more.     Maybe, something will happen now that we see big name acts are playing our local Essar Center and the need for more space and parking come into affect.    Only time will tell.

Below are photos of the grand stands, track area and parking areas as they now are after years of being forgotten. The grandstands are huge and the old track is a 1/4 of a mile oval.   In the satellite photo from top to bottom is racetrack property. There is actually more not shown at the bottom of the photo. Left to right, the track property is about an inch to 2 inches on either side of the oval. More so on one side than the other. This is massive property for a concert ground.   Take a ride out there sometime and see what I'm talking about. The photos don't really give you the total image of the property size.    Just think of the possibilities.. ;-)

KISS Makes Good

2010-08-12T05:32:00.000-07:00

Out of all the controversy, canceled shows, battle of the bands and all the hoopla, one photo says it all and it's this one posted on the Rad Zone site. True, there are some great photos from the show and even video of Tuesday night's KISS concert at the Essar Center but to me, this is the photo that tells it all. Local boys "Garden of Bedlam" got to play their dream concert after some tense moments of show cancellations by KISS. After all the bands participating in the contest to win an opening spot for this KISS show, beating out over a dozen bands, there was a time it was all for nothing for Garden of Bedlam when the much hyped KISS show was cancelled, but this past Tuesday, Garden of Bedlam were given their chance as the rescheduled show actually happened. I'm sure there is a lot of envy from the other local bands that participated and lost the chance to open for KISS but I'm sure there will be other chances.

Congrats to Garden of Bedlam on their chance to open for KISS, but also to KISS for keeping their word. ;-)

The Freq

The Mile Wide Grey

2010-08-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

I've decided to preview 6 songs by my cousin's band "Mile Wide Grey". The band is simply 2 guys enjoying the art of making music without following any rules in song writing. The band started in the mid 1990's and proceded to release 2 albums before 2000. The first album was called "What's True is Changing" and was released in 1996 by the label "10GEV Records". My cousin Chris and I exchanged CD's at that point as I had just released an album with the band Rainhorses. It was pretty cool to hear that another family member was into the music thing like myself and we both enjoyed talking about each others album. My cousin Chris and his band mate Brian were playing small clubs in the New York area at the time, doing sets at 3AM in the morning for no money. The thing is, they loved it and it was never about money. The band later put out a 2nd album called "Superior" in 1999 with a change in writing style but again with very unique results. I found that I really enjoyed their music as at times they had a comical slant to their writing. I just got the impression they didn't want to be taken seriously yet, their song topics always caught my interest. They did get some cool sounds happening in their recordings and they weren't afraid to experiment with different instruments and sound effects. 2 piece bands don't seem to be as rare these days with bands like the White Stripes or the Black Keys around like they were back in the 90's but that's what my cousin wanted to dol. I will admit, I'm not a fan of watching a 2 piece band live but music wise on recordings, I do enjoy it.

My cousin Chris and his brothers use to come visit my family from southern Ontario back when I was a kid. We always had a great time especially out at my uncles camp on Lonely Lake. Chris and his brothers were what you'd call "brainiacs" and very interesting to hang around with. ;-) Chris in his youth was a singer in the Saint Michael's Choir which is noted for it's long history and tradition of excellence and high standards in musical achievement. Let's just say that you don't just walk in and join this choir. ;-) This choir is know around the world. As my cousin got older, he was bitten by the rock music bug, and like many of us, our lives became partially dedicated to creating and playing music.

My cousin Chris and his friend Brian have kept their band "Mile Wide Grey" a slight mystery in that they only use their first names and there are only 2 photos of them. It's all part of their plan. In 2008 after a long hiatus, rare tracks appeared at their record labels site for a free download and I was lucky enough to grab them. No 3rd album was produced for these songs but I have a few of them now, along with a few from the first 2 albums for you to preview. It's difficult for me to describe their music but I do love it. Their record company describes their music as follows:

Each and every song is the world short circuiting while driving through the desert.
Each and every song is a love song.
Each and every song is graffiti scrawled by a rabid sophomore in the bathroom at an AC/DC performance.

Here is a review of their 2nd album "Superior".

"Local SLACkers Mile Wide Grey, slap happy apathy rock. Noise pop from THE underground. The Mile Wide Grey is guitar/vox and drums humming w/ plenty o’ reverb particles. Looking-down-a-staircase guitar lines with plenty o’ tasty overdubs. T-shirt and jeans vocals often bolstered by treated background choruses (whispersville on #5, answering machine style on #1,#3,#7) #9 is sad like the HAL-9000 singing “Daisy”#11 is a linear accelerator solo live-mic. Quantum radio activity. -Aunt Bea Factory".

Here is the Mile Wide Grey Discography

"What's True is Changing" 1996

Track Listing
1. lardass
2. scratch
3. ffr
4. people I saw once at cbgb
5. Bombastic Interview
6. Green Coat
7. drift drift drift
8. marginal zero

"Superior" 1999

Track Listing
1. S. & the Drone
2. El Dorado
3. Bird!!
4. Bad Aspect Ratio
5. Cool Now
6. Loose-Fat/Paper Cup
7. The 9:30 Silence
8. Menuet in G
9. Parking Meter, Expired
10. Attention: The Beam is Coming On

Rare "Mile Wide Grey" Tracks were released as a free download. 2008.

Below are 6 songs by my cousin's band "Mile Wide Grey".

Full Moon Lightnin' Wins Best DVD Award

2010-08-02T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true. The movie "Full Moon Lightnin', directed and produced by filmmaker John Gardiner that documents the journey of the Floyd Lee band featuring local guitarist Joel Poluck, has won best DVD of 2009 in "Living Blues Magazine". Just so you know how big of a deal this is, Living Blues Magazine has been around since 1970 and has been a leader in blues music journalism. This is a great accomplishment for Joel and the Floyd Lee Band. I still find it hard to believe that Joel (from Sault Ste. Marie) started out playing Van Halen and Steve Vai guitar riffs and then throughout his life absorbed so much of the blues music culture. That to me is true dedication.
Congratulation to all involved with this film. If you haven't seen it, slap yourself first and then go buy it or rent it. You won't be disappointed. Please visit the official website of "Full Moon Lightnin'" ... >>"HERE"

News Breaks and Stories Coming Soon

2010-07-28T16:28:00.000-07:00

After a weeks holiday it's time to update what is coming up on The Barking Eye.   First, I have contacted the bands "The Blackberries" and Greg from "The Billy Bastards" for info about their recording technique for the material they release through their sites.   Hopefully they send me the goods soon ;-) Also, the long over due showcase of local singer Dale Corcoran along with artist/ graphic designer Errol Monchka.   I am still waiting for George from Crank Sound Distribution for time to get an interview happening. This is his busy season and we'll have something for you when his schedule opens up.

Numerous recent metal music news stories can be read at Rob's ""Sault Metal Scene" and for that reason, I won't repeat those stories here. Sometimes it's unavoidable as a lot of artists in the Sault crossover different styles of music. There is enough features to satisfy everyone throughout the numerous local forums.

News Breaks and Rumours:

The old Eastgate Bar has been sitting idle for what seems like years and a recent article on Sootoday says the bar has had an offer placed on it. Rumours are that the building may be a seniors home or something to that effect. I'm sure if this falls through, the building will be demolished but you never know.   I do believe the city now owns the property because of unpaid taxes.

Rumours have been going around again about the old stock car track on 5th Line possibly being a concert ground.   When this rumour flew 10 years ago, the neighbours pretty much shut that idea down because of the noise factor. I'm looking into this again and will hopefully find the details if this is just talk or a possible entertainment facility.   When the Castle Farms concert grounds shut down years ago, there was interest in recreating that concert vibe via the stock car property which now sits vacant. Every few years this rumour surfaces and it would be cool if they did in fact develop this property for entertainment.

Local Band CD's coming soon.

Wishbone has recorded their 2nd album. No release date announced yet. They are currently rehearsing with new drummer T.J. Case.

Garden of Bedlam are also set to release their latest work and will be featured as the opening act for KISS this August.   Having their CD finished and printed for this show would be a stellar achievement and in my opinion an absolute must for the recognition and sales. I hope they can pull it off. Can you imagine the exposure? ;-)

That's it for now.

The Freq

Rotaryfest Mainstage Lineup for 2010

2010-07-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

Well, here it is folks, the mysterious main stage list of entertainment for this years 2010 Rotaryfest. I hope it was worth the wait. ;-) I'm glad that Rotaryfest is continuing with the Jazz in the Park series. It's good to hear other styles of music and if you're a fan of Dock's jazz night, you'll see a lot of familiar faces Thursday at Rotaryfest.

Friday sees repeat performances by some of the Sault's most popular bands including Mustang Heart who have easily been together for a decade. This band features the great talents of Marci and and Dama Chindamo on vocals and bass, Adam King on guitar.

Saturday features the debut of Huckster to the main stage who have just released a CD called "Designed for Real Life" along with Buffalo Alice making their first appearance. Also Saturday is the Bruce Springsteen Tribute act "Glory Days" featuring hometown musicians Serge Trembley (lead vocal/ guitar) and Paola Erme (drums).

The Stage
Location: Clergue Park
Thursday July 15, 2010 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM

JAZZ IN THE PARK
6:00 Bob Jenkins Band
7:00 Sault Swing Band
8:30 Jeff Holmes Jazz
9:30 Jazzy Goodtimes

The Stage
Friday July 16, 2010 6:00 PM - 11:30 PM

6:00 Obsession
7:00 Brass Tax
8:00 Thin Ice
9:00 Mustang Heart
10:00 That's Chester

The Stage
Saturday July 17, 2010 2:00 PM - 11:30 PM

2:00 Huckster
3:00 Cover Fly
4:00 Buffalo Alice
5:00 Spyder's Web
6:00 Catfish Hunter
7:00 Boogie Fever
8:00 Bone Yard
9:00 Glory Days- a tribute to Bruce Springsteen
10:30 Cheesie Smurphy

Rotaryfest 2nd Stage Line up Announced (Kinda ??) July 16-17 2010

2010-06-29T10:18:00.000-07:00

Every year the Second Stage drama gets stranger than the previous one. Why? I have no idea. None the less, some of the acts were announced today on their official Facebook page. In an even more puzzling move, some acts will be announced at later dates as the event closes in. That's either to wait confirmation of the acts or to hide the identity of certain bands so as to not cause riots or, hanky panky, or a possibility of headliners from out of town? Whatever the reason, it's odd but this is the Sault and you kind of expect things like this. I'm a little bit disappointed in the lineup as it seems to be a repeat of a previous 2nd Stage lineup but there are a few new acts one being Garden of Bedlam. |O| Anyways, here is the lineup for this years event.

Friday July 16th

5:00 - Craig West Band http://www.myspace.com/craigedwinwest
6:00 - Red Monkey http://www.myspace.com/reddmonkeymusic
7:00 - The Great Bloomers (Toronto) http://www.myspace.com/greatbloomers
8:00 - Kalle Mattson http://www.myspace.com/kallemattson
9:00 - To Be Announced Friday July 2nd!
NOW CONFIRMED> The Wooden Sky (Toronto) http://www.myspace.com/thewoodensky

Saturday July 17th

1:00 - Blues Harvest http://www.myspace.com/bluesharvest
2:00 - Catherine Taddo http://www.myspace.com/catherinetaddo
3:00 - Greg McLaughlin
4:00 - Porter http://www.myspace.com/theporterband
5:00 - To Be Announced Saturday July 3rd!
6:00 - The Wild Turkeys http://www.myspace.com/thewildturkeys
7:00 - To Be Announced Wednesday June 30th!
CONFIRMED! > Amanda Rheaume (Ottawa) http://www.myspace.com/theamandarheaumeband
8:00 - Big Wheel & The Spokes http://www.myspace.com/bigwheelandthespokes
9:00 - To Be Announced Monday July 5th!!!!
10:00 - Garden of Bedlam http://www.myspace.com/gardenofbedlam

Clusterfolk Concert July 24

2010-06-28T07:58:00.000-07:00

Clusterfolk
Saturday July 24th 2010
Bellevue Band Shell
Queen Street
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

The following info is from the Clusterfolk Facebook page with a list of the artists performing.

"Clusterfolk is a local folk music festival, an initiative started by Matthew Corcoran and Jessica Sebastiano in February 2010. The festival is a celebration of local talent and the coming together of music lovers, a non-profit (that means FREE for you! but we will be taking donations!) opportunity to see and hear great music and meet some people over common ground. Expect to see input from local visual artists, as we believe in the importance of different art forms coming together to support each other, and the interconnectedness of art."

BAND LIST:
The Pine Cones
Wojtek
Jordan Flesher
Shannon Moan
Deter
Bear Arms
Annie Metheany
James Watterworth
Johnee Rae Whalen
Hannah Clement
The Blackberrys
The Missy Maes
Isaac Rendell
Redd Monkey

SPEAKERS:
Tyler Knoch
Manda Hohmann
and possibly more TBA.

And FACEPAINTING by Janna G.

Contact clusterfolkfestival@gmail.com if you'd like to talk to us.
WE ARE UNABLE TO TAKE ANY MORE BANDS, SPEAKERS OR BOOTHS SET UP. SORRY FOR THE INCONVENIENCE, BUT HOLD ON FOR NEXT YEAR. :)

The 2nd Annual Secret Stage July 16

2010-06-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Ok. I never heard about the 1st Annual Secret Stage, :-) but I do know about the 2nd Annual Secret Stage show coming July 16/ 2010. :-) The show will be held at the popular Bottoms Up Lounge on Queen Street. This of course is the same night at Rotary Fest so it adds to the city wide affair. I think it's a great idea to have pockets of entertainment around the downtown area and not just in one location.
The line up of artists include;

5pm - Sasa Jurko
6pm - Isaac Rendell
7pm - Johnee Rae Whalen
http://www.youtube.com/user/JohneeRae
8pm - Brian Tremblay
http://www.myspace.com/briantremblaybuffaloalice
9pm - Jim O'Leary
http://www.myspace.com/jimo39leary
10pm - Hannah Clement
11pm - Kylie Precepa
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ifGDp7Zz_qo
12am - Joseph Kargi
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joseph-Kargi/127944927244511?v=info&ref=ts
1am - Al Wood & Lindsay Pugh
http://www.myspace.com/alwoodmusic

Attack of the Garage Bands (Segment 1) "Sykotyk Rampage"

2010-06-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

The concept of the "Attack of the Garage Bands" thread is to show how local bands create their music and the technique and gear they use to record it. Over the years I've noticed that no 2 local bands record the same way and that each tries to accomplish a product that is unique yet at the same time, attempt to capture the band's signature sound and energy as best as possible with the resources available. There are so many local bands recording these days that I thought it would interesting to start a thread showcasing how these bands achieved their goals in recording.

I recently saw the local band Sykotyk Rampage play at the KISS Battle of the Bands contest where they offered up their brand of Sykotyk "muzyk". You could see that the audience didn't know what to expect
from the band and watched with curiosity as the band kicked out 2 of it's original songs. I can easily say they are local garage rock pioneers and that night stood out as being the most original sounding. This band has released over 20 albums. Yes kids, over 20 albums and a new one on the way. What does that tell you? It tells me these guys love music and creating it, and that nothing will stop them from blessing the world with it. ;-)

I've known guitarist/ vocalist Dirk Becker since our days in highschool so when I asked him if he wanted to take part in this "Attack of the Garage Bands" thread, he jumped on it and contributed all the info below, so enjoy this article on how they create their "punkish, Zappa meets the Ramones, Sykotyk rockisms" from one of the true pioneers of local garage rock. ;-)

"Creating music for Sykotyk Rampage has basically been the same since its inception in the 80’s, we just plug-in and start crafting music. All the lyrics and music are created as we play, and recorded live. No editing out guitars, lyrics, mistakes...it all happens for a reason, no redo’s no overdubs, just us creating live music as we have done for 30 years.

The Sykotyk Rampage band members are;
Paul Becker drums and vocals
Shane Kokis guitar
Dirk Becker guitar and vocals
And we did have Brian Cattapan as bass player but he has moved to Sudbury,

We each have a shure vocal microphone that has a noise gate between 45d/60d. The main vocals for the songs are created by the Drummer Paul as he plays drums and sings at the same time – an amazing feat just in itself…let alone creating the music and lyrics at the same time. Occasionally I will sing a song, but mostly it is Paul’s creativity that drives the direction of the song and music. One of the guitar players, Shane or me, will start a “riff”…rhythm then we just flow through the creative process; from one new mantra right into another usually with numerous changes of genres. We have played together for so long now that it comes natural to “know” the inflections and dynamic changes of each other.

The drums, guitars, vocal microphones and if we have a bass player they are all routed into a 12 channel peavey non-powered sound board. There is a vocal effects off-board compressor/noise gate system. The sound board is the mixer for recording, it takes a while to set the tones, peaks, vocal effects, and levels but basically they are set the same for each session. We usually play once a week, either as a recording session or an actual band practice if we are going to play somewhere.

The drum kit has 6 dedicated drum microphones
Snare, kick, tom left, tom right, floor toms, and 1 cymbal overhead, they are all tight to the sound resonant zones. The kick and overhead have direction covers to cut background noise. Each microphone is level separate, with the kick having a high peak zone, and the cymbals and high hat at low peaks. On the kick and right toms a small amount of effects usually running at level 1.

The guitar amps- crate 2 12”speakers 150watt, and Ibanez 150 watt 4 10” speakers stack
external mic’d 6 inches from the speaker. On the sound board they are at peak level 1. point 2 flat tones, no effects, .5 gain
Shane and I are both using a zoom pedal systems between amp and guitars.
Guitars are a telecaster, and a hagstrom swede.

Bass amp is direct out to the board, that way there is more control over tones and volume peak levels.

Recording is into a computer that is running a program called Gold Wave (http://www.goldwave.com/), and is recorded in stereo. Volume and gain levels from the board are levelled in the computer by an analogue metering system. Tones are metered by a digital graphic control.
Basically I just set it up and we play and record live, we may play 10 or 15 new songs in a 3 hour session, 5 are junk, 5 are good, 5 are amazing. I take the songs chop them to length, equalize them and that’s it…what you hear is raw Sykotyk Rampage, all music and lyrics created and recorded live. Recording the way we do, we don’t actually “write” the music, ever. We will then take a song and learn it after it is done, learn it for when we play live. With a song catalogue in the thousands, so many songs have not been released; we could pump out an album a month, which I don’t have time to do. The songs that go on the albums are just random, from a few recording sessions. We actually think of an album name then find the songs to fill it from the recording catalogue.

The newest album “Bella Disgusta” was thought of on the beach by Brian and Paul back in 2009. The last album “22” was called that by Shane for the only reason that it was our 22nd album. We have a double album with completed songs, “Genius Mushrooms with Thoughts of Intellect” which will be released in September; we thought of a theme and ideas for it then just made the music. It’s in post production right now.

Well that’s how Sykotyk Rampage makes Blues Chinese Metal Crash Punk consistently for the past 30 years and always thinking of new ways to give people brain tumours with our own version of garage rock!"

Big thanks to Dirk Becker for the input on his band's recording process
To listen to or buy music by the band, click the following link. "Sykotyk Rampage Music"

Glen "The Freq"

Reverbnation - A Promotional Music Site for the Independent Musician

2010-06-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

If you've not heard of Reverbnation, it is a free website that independent artists can use to help promote and sell their own music. I've been a member for years and it gets better all the time. Reverbnation offers free space to upload your songs with a free player for people to use. No installation. Just click the song and it plays. . You also get space for videos, photos and graphics PLUS you can customize your site. What's even greater is that your music is showcased around the world and if that wasn't enough, your music is charted with other artists around the world. What that means is that your songs climb the music charts as you get more plays. You can listen to other music from bands every where and you can add them as friends to follow what they are doing musically. You can also post dates you or your band are playing, add a bio and the best part, use "Widgets" that will enable you to post your music on other sites like Facebook, Blogger or Myspace and so much more. Did I mention you get all of this for............"FREE"??? Lots of local bands are just beginning to see the bonuses to using Reverbnation. If you're a musician with original material, sign up now and start showcasing your music around the world. The very first song at the top of your list of songs will be the one that enters the Reverbnation charts. You can only have one song in the charts at one time but you can rotate your selection with other songs if you wish. It's simple to do. Just drag a song that you want in the charts to the top of your list and it will enter the charts by the end of the day. To go up in the charts people must play your song. Check out this great site at the link below.

http://www.reverbnation.com/

Barring Any Snowfall, KISS at the Essar August 10

2010-06-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

I'll believe it when I see it, but it has been announced that KISS will do their make up gig at the Essar arena August 10 with opening act Garden of Bedlam. Hopefully that is confirmed. ;-) Garden of Bedlam won the local Battle of the Bands to open for KISS back half a year ago but then the KISS show was canceled due to snow or something to that affect. I won't be going so let me know how the show goes.

Glen "The Freq"

Some Rare Local Sault Band Videos

2010-06-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

For the longest time I have searched for rare recordings and videos of local Sault bands or bands from other areas featuring local musicians. No easy task since video has really only been popular for the past 2 decades. In the 70's, film was the media and today, hard to transfer to digital without proper gear. None the less I have found a few from various online sources. You might consider this a bit of a history lesson ;-).

First video is ultra rare. It's a video of the extremely popular local band called "The Reggulars" who were leaders of the new wave somewhat punkish bands to become big draws in the early 80's. Unfortunately, this video's sound is really low and you have to crank it. This was filmed at the old Victoria House Bar that is now gone. The P.A. system is mine ;-)

The other popular new wave style band that was extremely popular was called "The Vox". Again, early 80's. I remember selling their drummer my very first drumset and them playing a concert in the Memorial Gardens parking lot area many years ago. They were a fun band and I do believe did some recording. Very hard to find material. Here is a video of them at the Zombie A Go Go, the local home for many bands of similar styles. This video was performed there. You could always tell the Zombie A Go Go by the back wall painting and it's visible in this video. As for my old drumset, I bought it back and it's in my basement. ;-)

One of the most popular guitarists in the Sault was Keith Danby. He played in numerous bands before moving away but he is still playing and I recently connected with him through a mutual friend. I first met
Keith when he was with a band called "The Drive" and further through local bass player Dan Boden for
a few band jams. I think the last time I saw him was when Arnill's Music first moved to Queen street.

After Keith moved most of us just heard of him playing in a band called "Jack Wrabbit" and that was it.
Keith has numerous videos of his music projects over the years on his Youtube channel but I picked this video because it shows Keith's history which includes some of the time he was growing up in the Sault.
It's funny how I remember him playing Van Halen licks in the music store but also playing Rush tunes,
like Spirit of the Radio and 2112, but I do.

Another find is this video of Sonny Boy Mick. Most locals won't know this band as I don't think they've made appearance here BUT, the guitarist and lead singer is Steve McPhail, long time Saultite and member of the old band Edison Slave and yes.........Bedrock that use to play the local scene in the late 70's and early 80's. Steve also worked with the road band "Total Stranger" who put out an album that I have somewhere in my collection. I saw them a few times live back when the Royal Hotel was a music scene staple here. Steve continues to play and last I heard had joined forces with local drummer Paola Erme who left the Sault years ago. I believe they are now both in Sonny Boy Mick.

Lastly, this is the band Human Disorder featuring local guitarist/ singer Jason
Talifer and local drummer Joe Laverne back a few years. I have one of their albums. It's truly heavy if you're into that sort of thing. I admire the tightness of the band but I've never been a fan of the cookie monster vocal "thang".
Still, there is no denying this band had talent. This is a rare video just recently posted so enjoy.

That's it for now.. Enjoy

Glen "The Freq"

Another Music School in the Soo?

2010-06-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

This is interesting. Guitarist Mike Davies has set out on his own to start a music school. Not much to add to that except that it will be located near Bawating Highschool. I will post details as I get them. ;-)

Local Bands Are Hungry To Record

2010-06-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

It has never been easier to do recording of original material than it has been these past few years. The market is simply swamped with recording software, computers, and harddrive recorders to help you create your own music at a reasonable cost.   Many of the Sault's bands are presently recording in various ways and the results are all quite interesting and impressive.
Options are vast for recording and it all depends on your budget, skills, drive to accomplish this task and most of all, focus.    The entire recording process is a long one and it has to be planned out in a lot of detail. If you've got the money and really have your material worked out then it's probably best to visit a few of our local recording studios where for the cash, you pay an engineer to do it all which keeps your focus on playing the songs and paying the bill at the end of the project without major headaches. The other extreme is to buy a simple multitrack recorder from your local music store, plug in one mic, and record. There are so many options and steps to recording that like I said, you have to plan out what you want to do. Most bands find it economical to just put out an EP which is basically 4 to 6 songs with minimal artwork. This way, it keeps the cost down, the time to record to a minimum and it's a cost effective way to shop your music around the country for interested record labels.    Right now, 4 local bands have used Stereo Soul Studios here in our local community recently. These bands are Wishbone, Garden of Bedlam, Sense of Truth and Big Wheel and the Spokes. There are more obviously but these are either in progress or recently completed.    These bands decided to take the route of using a studio to keep the most focus on their own playing but also to get the product done by experienced professionals.   There is cost for all this ease of pressure and it can run into the thousands of dollars, but if you've got it, spend it. It's worth it.   Others like to do things themselves like me for example ;-).   This list is long with some bands that have done their own projects on their own gear in the Sault.. Bands like Stifflers Mom, Mike Yurich, Sykotyk Rampage and others like The Billy Bastards, Catherine Taddo, Big Suit and my own band Flat Stanley have gone a different route and adapted to using our own studio or recording gear to record the music we create. With this method however, there are giant learning curves depending on the hardware and software you use.
In most cases, that method is computer based with specialized software.    This is where the headaches start and you begin to see that writing the song was the easy part. |O| The entire concept of home recording is quite simple really. It's to 1. save money 2. have full control 3. allow the freedom to record anytime you want at any time of the day or night 4. satisfaction having created your music entirely yourself 5. To learn more about the recording process by the way of hands on experience.   Sure, there are more reasons but I think it's safe to say, these are the main ones at least in my opinion they are.

One of the main problems getting starting is "where to start".   In today's world of technology the easiest place to start is on your basic home computer.   Your computer has the ability to record no matter how old it is.   Think of it as a giant tape deck.   If you have a sound card in your computer, and a single mic with the proper cable and or adapter, you can use that single mic and computer to record your music ideas. True, the more you spend on software and hardware, the better chance you get of putting out a quality product but honestly, I've heard bands record on the basics and get amazing results.   You have to remember, you're creating a demo of your work and it's the music that counts. Production is always second.   Production only helps but it's not the selling point.   Remember that. Most people who listen to the music have no clue on why things sound the way they do. They're only interested in music and lyrics.

Now, computers come in drastically different configurations but they will all record at some level. It's your budget that allows you a chunkier computer with more functions. I originally started recording on reel to reel tape which seems like the dark ages now but at the time, tape was all you had.   I then moved to a simple Pentium 120 computer with a simple sound card and a microphone.   I utilized the music player that came with the computer which is software based and I also used the simple recording software that also came with the computer and operating system.    I just put a mic in front of me with an acoustic and sang. I just made sure the mic was between my mouth and the guitar so I could achieve volume balance between the 2. It's primitive but it works.    As I learned recording back in my reel to reel days, I learned to "bounce" tracks" which is a process by which you take one or more tracks and record them to one track freeing up those previous tracks with stuff on them. Make sense?. Most reel to reel tape decks were either 2 or 4 tracks.    With today's computers, you don't really need to do that but still, I have used it on occasion even on my computer.

Software is the biggest headache in recording these days. The market is swamped with so many products that just reading the reviews on them can drive you totally insane.   It is best to just download the demo versions of say 4 or 5 programs and experiment.   That's what I did. Demos are normally free and allow you a chance to get familiar with the product. You may not get all the features with the demo or the ability to save your project but you will get to try the product and see if it fits your needs. That's what I've done along with many other local musicians.

One of the basic FREE recording programs out there that I have used along with numerous others is one called "Audacity" http://audacity.sourceforge.net/   It's a very simple basic multitrack recording software program that will get you started into the world of recording. It's small in size and does a ton of cool things and it will keep you happy for hours. Did I mention "IT'S FREE" !!! I suggest anyone wanting to get into recording, try this program for a short time because after that, the programs become a little more mind bending. ;-) Start with the basics ;-) I've used this program for demo use and recorded many songs with it including one called "Glen Thomas - Massive Machine" which you can hear by clicking the link. It's just a demo idea recorded for possible future use.. It's not perfect and it's not great but the fact is, it's presentable. I use Audacity still if I have a quick idea I want to record in a few seconds without the bells and whistles.   Local band "Browbeat" has also used it on their song demos as have many others.   Download it, READ the info and experiment but most of all have fun with Audacity..

The next step in computer recording is moving up to the big boys of home recording. These software programs include
1. Cakewalk - Sonar
2. Digidesign Pro Tools
3. Steinberg Cuebase
4. Propellerhead Reason
5. M-audio Pro tools

These are just 5 of the most popular but there are 100's out there. I personally use Cakewalk's Sonar 8.3 at the moment and have been getting great results.    Local recording studios and other basement dwellers use a light version of Digidesigns Pro Tools as most couldn't afford the pro studio versions at 12 grand and up. ;-)
As you get into these heavier programs, you can still use the single mic concept however, how that signal gets into the computer will now vary due to some of these software requirements.   What happens now is a little bit of expense. You have to purchase an interface for some of these software programs that take analog signal and convert it to digital. Also, in the case of recording drums, you want the ability to have each drum on it's own track for editing purposes. You will need an interface that allows multiple mic inputs but also one that has the ability to keep those drum sounds separate once they're in the computer. A company called MOTU makes some great products for that. I own one and love it.   It allows me 24 tracks of analog signal to be recorded at one time. That's 24 instruments at one time but the key is that it keeps them on separate tracks once they're in the computer. ;-).   That is more than you'll ever need in a home studio situation. Again, you can still use the single mic setup with these software programs but you now have the ability to expand your horizons if you get a matching hardware interface.   This interface is either a plug in card for your computer OR a stand alone rack mountable system that runs cables to a matched card that you put into your computer.   Yes, it's a bit complicated and in most cases, getting the hang of the software is even worse. It takes years to get a good handle on achieving a solid sound recording.   Learning the computer and the software is only part of it. Mic placement, types of mics,   how the room sounds, and so much more have to be learned or experimented with too. So many variables can affect your recordings at this stage..

How far will all this get you?   It's up to you. There is a hugely popular band called "The Black Keys" that have used a basic recording rig and have produced absolutely great albums both in music and in sound by doing what we local musicians are doing. Basic rig and technique with a whole lot of experimenting. You just have to remember one thing. You will not achieve the exact sound of major recording acts ok?   You have to be realistic but that said, you can easily put out a product that sounds great where you can hear everything in the song and yes, it will appeal to almost anybody but most of all, you will created something unique. It's up to you how far you want to take it.   My advise is this.   Try and master each step you take in recording. When starting basic, do more than one project with it.   Try and achieve better results with each song.   It will happen and you will learn so much from it.   Don't just do one song and abandon the software.   They all have more features than you'll ever use in one song and it's best to learn the most before moving on because it only gets more complicated as you get into heavier software. ;-) Next, be your own critic. Do multiple versions of the same song.   See if you can improve or change it to make it stand out more.    I can't stress this enough.   Most importantly, play to a click track.   This will keep all you music parts in time and it will make your project sound tight and together and not loose and sloppy.

Listen to the local band "the Revue" on their basement recordings below. Simple recording but the songs sound great and complete.
http://www.myspace.com/therevuetheband

Glen "the Freq"

Basswerx Recording Studio Update

2010-06-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

I have just recently talked to Scott Kennedy, owner of the Basswerx Recording Studio and here is a brief update. Scott tells me the studio is approximately 80 percent done and they are taking their time to make sure everything is done correctly. He also told me that a new website and Facebook page is in development to promote the studio. They want to keep everything low key until they are ready, which I respect.
The building they bought was completely gutted and studio plans were designed by a professional. Those plans alone I know cost quite a bit. To save money, Scott and partner Steve Cardiff both did most of the work themselves which included 100's of hours of drywalling, wood working, wiring, you name it. I've talked to Steve and Scott in the past and they told me about the specialized walls and ceilings in this studio that were apparently extremely difficult to hang. The term for these walls is called "floating". This is a process where sub floors and walls are built inwards of existing walls and floors which helps sound proof the rooms. Special materials are used (sound proof vinyl, foam or sponge) between the existing walls of the room and the new inner walls. There are a number of products used. This all helps the room dynamics and soundproofing qualities. Basswerx's old website had photos of the early process of the construction but have been taken down now as the new website gets developed. Scott tells me that they will let everyone know when they are ready to go and knowing Scott, it will be big. The studio is based on Pro Tools software and Scott is a certified tech with this software. As for the hardware, no word but with Pro Tools, computer wise it will be Mac. Right now, Scott and Steve have major dollars invested in this venture and it will be a pro series studio. I was told when they started this project that this studio will cater to professional recording acts along with local acts.

That's a brief update.

Glen, the Freq :-)

Coming Soon in the Coming Weeks

2010-06-03T16:07:00.000-07:00

I will be doing a story about Crank Sound Distribution in the near future featuring it's owner operator George Ravlich. He and I have talked via email and will connect when his schedule eases up over the next few weeks.

I'm also working on a story about the Soo's state of the art recording studio "Basswerx" that has been under development for the past few years. I've seen photos of the building renovations and I'm amazed at the work Scott Kennedy and Steve Cardiff have done.

I'm also going to do a thread on what gear and techniques local basement and garage bands are using for recording their demos and CD's and I hope to preview one song from each band to show the results they've achieved. It will be called "Attack of the Garage Bands".

Stay tuned.

Glen "the Freq" Thomas

Updates on Rotaryfest 2nd Stage and Musicians on T.V.

2010-06-01T14:07:00.000-07:00

First, I have been notified that the Rotaryfest 2nd Stage picks for entertainment are behind schedule and no
word on who is or isn't playing as of yet. Also, I received an email from Craig about the T.V. show featuring a local band and it is slightly delayed while his business relocates downtown. I was informed that my band Flat Stanley will have a meeting as soon as things are up and running. I would imagine all bands that submitted will be informed also.

Glen "the Freq" Thomas

Local Drummer Showcase # 2

2010-06-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

Dan Nystedt is an interesting drummer that really reminds me of the drummer in the recording act, The Black Keys. Dan has an unusual animated style and plays loose most of the time but it always suits the band's music. I love his playing. Dan was a neighbour of mine as a kid and use to listen to my bands practice through my basement window. I didn't know he became a drummer until I saw his band "the Revue". When I did see this band I immediately loved them and their music. They were the hottest original act in town at that time but like most bands, it's hard to maintain that momentum and the band splintered apart. Dan is a very talented individual who along with being a creative drummer, is also a film maker who is presently doing a film on our railroad.
http://www.myspace.com/therevuetheband

Bob Clarke is without a doubt a Sault Ste. Marie drumming legend. I heard about him as a kid long before I ever touched a drumset from my brother who was also a musician at the same time as Bob. In the 60's Bob was part of the band The Amen who also became hugely popular and went on to record 2 original songs that focus on Bob's drumming skills. Bob went on to tour with the Canadian band Jackson Hawk who were nominated for a Juno. Later on in life Bob played in numerous local bands and that's when I first saw Bob play. He has definite jazz chops and an absolutely killer blues shuffle. Bob and many of his fellow musicians took part in the extremely successful "18 Forever" concert back in 2007. His photo was taken from that event. Bob is noted for his tasteful drum solos and even those are legend throughout his years playing in Toronto area with The Amen.
http://www.garagehangover.com_The Amen with Bob

Mike Lilley is without a doubt one of the Sault's top drummers. In his youth, Mike was notorious for asking a ton of questions about drumming and music in general. Yes, he drove me nuts. |O| I've known Mike since he was a kid and also know his dad Colin who is also a fabulous singer and musician. Mike played in numerous local bands before leaving the Sault to become a teacher in the Windsor area. Mike has recorded a few projects and even drummed for a touring Kiss tribute band years ago in full makeup. Mike is one of only a few local drummers to take on the technology side of keyboard sequencing while he plays drums on stage.

Cliff Alloy is a drummer that has an extremely loose jazzy style who loves to experiment during live performances. He is also the most animated drummer I've seen in town. There are times I wonder
if he even sits down when he plays. ;-) Cliff's playing can be heard with the killer local band "Big Wheel and the Spokes". They have 2 albums out and recently did a short Ontario tour. He is also a fan of drum collecting and over the years, had some nice kits Cliff also took my place in the Huckster band after I left last year. He is a very tasteful player that is easily at home with jazz, blues and some funk. Cliff and his
band Big Wheel and the Spokes are a must see.
http://www.myspace.com/bigwheelandthespokes

I first saw Mike Oakley play back in the 70's when he was part of the Lakeway Highschool band playing songs from Movies and TV shows like Mash and Rocky. It wasn't until I saw him play at a school show when his playing and drum solo totally influenced me. I knew at that point I had to get better on a drum kit. Mike made this beat up old Ludwig/ Premier mish mosh kit sing for that show. I had just started playing and I was trying to absorb all I could from local players but Mike impressed me so much with his playing on that gig that I never forgot it. Over the years, Mike has been in numerous bands but gone in and out of drumming for many personal reasons. Whenever he makes his return, he always has a good solid rock band in front of him and kicks with solid rock drumming. Some may remember the WFO band. Cool solid rock band. Mike is also a great singer and one of the few local lead vocal drummers around. His present band is Sneaky Pete and will be out soon from what the word is on the streets. Mike and I have talked drums many times over the years and shared the stage a few times in Battle of the Bands in past years.
Sneaky Pete on Facebook

Local Drummer Showcase # 1

2010-05-31T08:50:00.000-07:00

Probably the biggest influence to my own local drumming career is Alan Lukala. Alan is one of a few local drummers that can actually say they have over 3 decades of music experience in the field of drums. Alan can easily read drum music notation faster than most read the English language in print. His talent in rock, jazz, and latin is second to none amongst local drummers. Currently, Alan teaches periodically through the Music Depot music store and only does a few shows a year mainly in jazz settings but also stage productions. The drumset in his photo was custom built for him to his specs. Alan studied with Canadian drumming great Rick Gratton and studied drums for many years in the Toronto area before moving back to the Sault. Alan is easily one of the best players around.

Another amazing local drummer is Ed Young and yes, another of the over 3 decades playing drums club and still going strong. My first introduction to Ed was with a band Spring Hill Jack (sp) at Algoma University back many decades ago. Ed is not only a great drummer but also guitarist and song writer. He has been a staple at Tom Wall's Music as a teacher. Ed can easily be called the hardest working drummer in town and currently plays in numerous bands like Blues Harvest, Buffalo Alice along with numerous side projects like Big Suit and more. Ed also worked for the Ayotte Drum company many years ago.
http://www.myspace.com/bluesharvest

I first heard Jimmie Chiverelli at last years Rotaryfest 2nd Stage when his band Kalle Mattson followed my band on stage. The first thing I noticed about Jimmie's playing was how in the pocket it was which seems to be a lost art amongst local drummers lately. Jimmie is also a very dynamic player that plays for the song rather than himself. I later found out Jimmie is an avid Bruce Springsteen fan along with his drummer Max Weinberg. Jimmie and his band Kalle Mattson are currently riding high in popularity and doing a lot of touring around Canada. (Jimmie photo courtesy of Donna Hopper)
http://www.myspace.com/kallemattson

Ric Datson is simply the Sault's most recognizable drummer. Yet another member of the over 3 decades in the music biz drummer club, he shows no signs of slowing down. He currently plays in the country rock band "Boneyard" and also the classic rock band "That's Chester". Ric is also a local music historian and works for our local museum keeping great info on the Sault's music history amongst other things. Ric's drumming has always been explosive and is noted for his big finishes to songs. Although his music roots are now in rock and country, I first met Ric when he was playing in the semi punkish band Youth in Asia many decades ago.
That's Chester on Facebook

I only recently met Kev Riain when his band and my band were competing in the KISS Battle of the bands held some months ago. His band Sense of Truth are in the final stages of recording and releasing an album and I'm looking forward to hearing it. Kev's playing is definitely solid and he has a ton of energy behind the kit but he also has dynamics which like I mentioned earlier, seems to be lost with many local drummers. His playing at this show that included a ton of players easily stood out and his personality did the same. I don't know much about Kev or his playing, though I like what I hear so far, but I do sense (no pun intended ;-) Kev will continue to grow as a musician. Expect good things from Sense of Truth. (photo courtesy of Curtoneil.com)
http://www.myspace.com/senseoftruth

Lastly for this first segment of the Local Drummer Showcase #1 is yours truly me, Glen "the Freq" Thomas. I will simply say that I love playing all styles of music and will never say no to attempting a style of music. Researching and talking about local music has always been a love and I will always attempt to throw something online for others to read. Drum wise, I'm part of the over 3 decades club and continue to play and record to this day. I've recorded albums for Rainhorses, Patrick Stewart, Wishbone, Huckster and currently play in my own band Flat Stanley which is celebrating 10 years together this summer. My favourite music is Jazz and Progressive Rock. Drum wise, I love playing jazz more than anything. I'm an avid music gear collector and built the kit shown in my photo. I also play other musical instruments and love writing and recording my own music in my home studio.
http://www.myspace.com/the_freq

Stay tuned for "Local Drummer Showcase #2"

Glen "the Freq"

From Riggy Zomba to Vandyl

2010-05-30T23:25:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular local bands around in the late 80's was a band called "Vandyl" featuring Dale Corcoran on vocals, Chris Lloyd on guitar, Tim Harrington on bass, Howard Bertolo on keyboards and Augustino on drums. I should say that this was the line up for the band "Riggy Zomba" that later changed it's name to "Vandyl" when it set out on the Ontario band circuit. In the photo above, left to right is, Howard, Chris, (Augustino's replacement ?) Tim and Dale. The band changed drummers a few times along with guitar players before nailing a very solid performing lineup. The last drummer I saw with the band was by far the best but not from the Sault. Also, replacing Chris Lloyd on guitar was another out of town player. I don't recall his name but do remember he had a nicname that he went by. "Squid" maybe? |O| The band vanished quickly after a few years of touring and the members splintered into various touring acts but seeing the band Vandyl at the old Victoria House in the Sault was always a highlight. Why the name change?   Dale told me that it was because the agents didn't like the Riggy Zomba name. Personally, the agent goofed as I think it's a great name, and so did Dale but Ontario music agents were not too swift back in those days. ;-) Vandyl use to play songs by Europe, Judas Priest, Honeymoon Suite, Max Webster just to name a few. This was the glam rock days so there was big hair and spandex a plenty but also solid musicianship and showmanship. When the band was called "Riggy Zomba", they didn't really catch on around the local venues but did open for the heavy metal band Anvil. I never saw the show but actually have the poster with a Riggy Zomba poster with it. Collector's piece??? Ya never know. |O| Once they did the name change and started touring, the band tightened up and were a band that probably could have made it had they stuck with it.

When the band split, Howard and Tim joined with Canadian rock bands "The Works" but also Aldo Nova for a tour and Tim did a stint with Lee Arron if I remember right.   Dale went onto perform in numerous tribute acts which he still does.   The last time I talked to Chris Lloyd was decades ago and he quit the band to do something in customs, border security and Augustino became a hair dresser and then vanished from the Sault almost overnight. The other members I have no clue but I do think the last drummer is with a band called "the Joys". I could be wrong on that. ;-)

Now, here's a really RARE treat.   This recording that I'm going to spring on you is so rare that I'm not even sure Dale from the band knows it exists but, being a collector of some local band goodies back in the day, I came across this "ORIGINAL" song by Vandyl in my good ole box of cassettes in my basement.   This is probably the only original song the band wrote. It was the only one I ever heard the band play live.   The song is missing the intro but contains most of the song. The style is similar to the band Europe, but also bands like Honeymoon Suite and Loverboy.   This original song is called "Teenage Rebel" and to top it off, this is a LIVE recording of the band. ;-).

Enjoy this rare yet kinda dated sounding original song by "Vandyl".

Note: Stay tuned for some info on Dale's new project in the near future.

Glen "the Freq"

I Love Surprises :-)

2010-05-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

Once in a while you receive something from someone that just puts a smile on your face just because it brings back a bunch of memories. A fan of my band Flat Stanley gave me a few rare recordings of us during a sound check at a local bar called "Smack Daddies". Although not flattering in any way, they are fun to listen to and it helps old people like me remember what our old song list was like. One thing about my band Flat Stanley is that we like to experiment with music. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. In this recording, it obviously doesn't work but it was an experiment and failures happen. My singer hates swearing on the mic so during this song, he'd turn his head and swear off mic |O|. Also, he loved fiddling with guitar leads during sound checks and the ending of this song is full of that. I remember we use to play a song off Geddy Lee's solo album and that tanked pretty bad live. Yes, it sucked. We just couldn't handle half of the experimental stuff vocally. Every band has it's embarrassments. ;-) Other songs my friend gave me were "Grace to Grace" by Geddy Lee which we're brutal on, "Lost and Found by Honeymoon Suite which sounds ok for the most part and lastly "Too Much" by the Dave Mathews Band, which again, like the 9 Inch Nails cover, isn't flattering but it shows that we did put some work into attempting to make it work.

If you have a video or recording of your band doing the "wrong" material like my band and aren't afraid to shake your head and laugh, let me know and I'll post it. I will post a few more of my band Flat Stanley's failures soon just for shits and giggles. ;-) It's easy to post a vid or recording when you perform well, but I want to put a spin on it and show the flubs and imperfections. We all have them. ;-)

Tuned Down and Out

2010-05-25T09:06:00.000-07:00

Over that past 10 years I've created a few music forums and sites observing local musicians and their music and commenting on the good and or bad that these artists do.   Yeah, I know, if you don't have anything good to say about anybody, don't say anything at all. Sorry, I'm just not into the bury your head in the sand style of media. I'm not saying it's wrong. I'm just saying that there is always a story to tell and every aspect should be looked at and told, good or bad.

I have looked at hundreds of local band videos over the years and even more recently as local bands jump on the Youtube band wagon for showcasing themselves. When you watch a lot of these videos in repetition you start to see a lot of similarities between a lot of the local bands but you also see a lot of flaws or what I call shortfalls. Believe me, my own bands and music have their own short comings too so I'm not just picking on others.

What I have noticed is how many local bands tune their guitars down from their normally designed pitch, which is A440, the standard pitch for most guitars.    Yes, I know, rock guitarists always strive to get the the heaviest sound possible and tuning down appears to these players as achieving that, but you also lose massive amounts of clarity. With it, the bass and vocals also have to come down in pitch to match. What happens is that the guitar sounds start to sound similar with all these bands. In my own opinion ;-) the sound becomes a drone like sound comparable to the low note on a set of bag pipes. Listening to an albums worth of tuned down guitars, just becomes, boring and quite frankly, sonically annoying.    I look at some of the pioneers of music like Led Zepplin, Rush, Black Sabboth, Pink Floyd and more and can't believe the clarity in their music over some of this tuned down material you hear today. In my own love of music, I prefer bands that experiment with tunings, but always keep the designed pitch the norm. Some players like Stevie Ray Vaughn tuned a half step down (a single fret position) on their guitars to enable the use of extremely heavy gauges of strings for big tone. By using heavy strings, it makes it hard to bend the string, so tuning a half step down, you enable flexibility in the string to bend it. That said, there's really not a lot of bending in today's rock music to compare with Stevie's technique of bending. Still, I can honestly say I'm sick of the tuned down sound.    Like I mentioned earlier, when watching local band videos, some of these bands are tuned so low that the strings are hanging off the guitar fret board and at that point, losing clarity.
A few years ago, a band called Big Wreck hit the charts and what I liked about their first album was that each song experimented with a different tuning.   They weren't the first to do this, but they reminded me of Zepplin when they use to experiment with tunings.   The bottom line is that it just makes the music sound more interesting.

My other hang up while watching the local bands vids and their originals is the lack of the "hook" or a definitive groove. Maybe I'm old and that's not important anymore but sheesh, legends were made from those 2 key points. Also, the use of the basic boring bar chord is just so dull to me.   I constantly nag my own band about over using bar chords.   It's like the hammer on for guitarists.. I find it boring unless Van Halen is using them. Have you ever seen a chord chart for guitar or piano? There are TONS of interesting chords you can play yet most bands, especially local, focus on the extremely basic ones.   Yes, we all use them but is it too much to ask to use them sparingly?    Listening to Jazz and classical music opens the door to amazing chording which in turn will make your music a bit more interesting.   Something has to change because I just find the original music in our city is slowly repeating itself and on every repeat, something else seems to get lost or eliminated. Is it music in general that's losing it's luster? It's possible. I guess the term stagnant should be used.   My other observation is the lack of good lead guitar work. In some cases, guitar leads are non existent but when they are there, most aren't very good.   This is actually music wide not just local. It's sad to say but Nirvana killed the guitar lead. There is also the opposite view where over playing during a guitar lead ruined music which I can also agree with. Somewhere in the middle is the sweet spot but it seems no one wants to try and achieve it anymore.

Drums are also losing their luster in the local music scene.   Where are the dynamic players?? In these local vids, the drummers are beating the crap out of the kit. There is no dynamic at all. Dynamics are what makes each player unique so without it, drummers start to sound alike. Don't get me wrong. There are good drummers out there but unique ones, not really.    I watched a lot of local bands at the KISS Battle contest a while back and only 2 stood out.   That's 2 out of a ton of bands. The rest sounded like clones of the others which I found really odd. Of course, that again is my own opinion but the bottom line is that the rest of them all sounded like they were stamped out of the same mould. That is what bothers me.   When you take away aspects of music like dynamics, tuning or even inventive chord patterns, you're left with some pretty dull, uneventful music. To add to that, vocal harmonies are not longer popular with local bands taking away yet another tool to be unique.   You're left with something so basic and bland that it feels like musicians have not evolved or learned a thing from their music history.

I guess I'm just discouraged by what I hear locally. There are popular bands but none to me fit the bill as being unique or innovative. I don't mean that as an insult but more so as an eye opener. Maybe being unique is harder to achieve these days OR it's magical and only happens once in a while. I'm not sure but I hope to see and hear something new soon as it's getting pretty dull.

glen "the freq"

No KISS For You, Soo

2010-05-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

It's apparent to me that the band KISS is not coming to the Sault without 1. a lot of money being waved in their faces no matter how much interest from fans there is 2. A lot of begging and crying 3. that Sault snow weather belt vanishes completely or the Sault moves closer to the equator. |O|

Everybody is writing about this and it's getting tired fast. Instead of wasting our time on KISS coming here, let's try and get some other acts here that actually want to play here that can fill an arena. The perfect scenario would be to have KISS at Runway Park where 1000's more could attend but for some reason, the Essar is the focal point which is stupid since a summer outdoor show would be best. As for the KISS Battle of the Bands show, welllllllll. In my opinion, it was a farce from the get go. It seemed odd that after this show, the radio stations sponsoring this Battle went amuck with firing people, changing formats and what not. Is it all related? I'm not sure but everything seems kinda connected. You know me, I love to read between the lines and come up with conspiracy theories HA! None the less KISS still hasn't played here and the winner of the contest Garden of Bedlam have hopefully moved on without this farce affecting them too much.

I looked at the KISS tour schedule and there is space to add a few shows just before the Toronto date but why not just add the Sault date there in the first place if they had any intentions on playing it. Who knows?

Did I mention their latest album is horrible? Wow. I'm not really a KISS fan but that's a pretty lame album, but then again, most of their newer albums are. It seems the original lineup wrote the strongest music.

So, stop holding your breath for KISS and try and focus on more deserving acts to play the Sault. The list is long.AC/ DC would be cool. RUSH would be awesome. Paul McCartney, Porcupine Tree, Sarah McLachlan, Alanis Morissette, etc. Think people. :-)

When the Soo Was "Swamped"

2010-05-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

Back in the late 90's early 2000 a band of 3 friends put together a bar band to try and get their feet wet in the local music scene in Sault Ste. Marie. The musicians had played in various other bands prior to "Swamped" but this new band was to venture into original material. The band played the Nicolet on occasions playing modern rock and some classic rock material and were generally well accepted. Swamped also played a Queen Street show and if I remember correctly, played on the corner of Dennis and Queen Street along with other bands placed in different spots on Queen street. The drummer Jeff Pennet played in the country rock band Marshal Law for years and after Swamped, drummed for me in a band called Route 69 while I played bass. Jeff is what is known as a south paw drummer and set's his kit up rather oddly but it's a tribute to his dad who use to setup the same way. The band went on to record an EP but for some reason, 2 songs from it ended up in my collection of tapes with no label unfortunately. I've recently contacted Joby, singer/ guitarist for the band and he is going to give me the entire EP but until then, I have converted the 2 songs I have to video and did a quick logo for it just to at least let you hear these 2 songs. The band Swamped also played the Rotaryfest Parade one year and I actually filled in on drums for Jeff as he had a prior engagement. We just played a bunch of old rock and roll covers but the band started to get a following as a party band during it's short life. As with many bands, the recording process seemed to end the life of Swamped and only these handful of recordings remain. I asked Joby for photos but as of yet, he's not found any so all that we have is a part of the music. These recordings are horrible quality from an old tape so hopefully Joby gives me the released version of their album soon and I will edit the music on the vid.

Here are the members of Swamped:
Josh St. Amour - bass
Jeff Pennet - Drums
Joby McClelland - Vocals, Guitar

Swamped - "On and On Again"

Swamped - Walking the Tightrope

Mega Band "RUSH", In the Soo????

2010-05-24T16:11:00.000-07:00

Yes boys and girls, there was a time when mega stars "RUSH" use to play the Memorial Gardens back
in the 1970's. Rush played here a few times and all I can tell you is they were LOUD. By the time their album Moving Pictures was released, Rush never returned to Sault Ste. Marie. I would love it if they would but their stage production is so massive these days, I highly doubt they'd fit in the new Essar Center. Anyways, here are 2 rare photos I have of Rush at the Memorial Gardens back in the 70's. Rush was noted for having thick shag carpet on their stage back then. Unfortunately it's not shown in the photos. These 2 photos were submitted by me to Duane Roy who is writing a book about the concerts at our old Memorial Gardens. Duane wrote a book about the Castle Farms recently.
"Castle Stories: A Rock and Roll Scrapbook" was released in mid-November. Published by Alloways Printing in Blind River, the 294-page softcover book boasts more than 300 photos and memories of concerts, including Judas Priest, Metallica, Ringo Starr and The Police, presented between 1976 and 1993 at the former concert venue in Charlevoix, Mich.

Looking for local Original Band For New TV show on SooNews.ca

2010-05-22T17:22:00.000-07:00

"We're currently looking for a local band with a commentary sound and original material to be host of a new tv show for next fall. The show would be taped in our studios (new studio downtown) over a few days in the summer. If you're interested please e-mail me at craig@soonews.ca.

This is a post from my old Musician's Central forum. It's been mentioned on other forums as well. Interesting idea to say the least and at least it sounds like an original idea by Sault Ste. Marie standards. ;-)
Hmmm. A Freq-ish T.V. show would be fun...;-)

Crossbreed - The Delta Hurricane Cometh

2010-05-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while everyone get's involved with something that in the end, doesn't pan out. The band "Crossbreed" was one such project for me.   "Crossbreed" was the brainchld of guitarist/ singer Mike Kienhoffer (Conan), bassist Bob Hollingshead, and little ole me Glen Thomas back in 2001.    The band was an all original music blues, rock band formed out of various side projects we'd all been in years before like "The 2nd Hand Band", "Big and Tall" and "The Kingtones".   Throughout the bands existence, over 30 songs were written and recorded in various stages of completion. Everyone contributed to the music of Crossbreed but Mike lead the way in number of song ideas.   The band recorded most of the material on hardrive recorders, mainly off the floor but also a few were done via multitrack.   The unfortunate story of this band is that personal health and tragedy in my own life ended the band but what's even worse is that the best versions of Crossbreed's music were lost due to equipment failure of the recording device. Various backups were made throughout the process but not one finished version exists.   What these recordings DON'T show is how tight the band really was. These versions are basically the test drafts of the writing process as we wrote the material.   There are some really crude recordings done with a single mic that show
the bands ability to ad lib and come up with ideas also and I may post those if I can improve the sound.

The band was scheduled to play the local Blues and Jazz Festival back in the early part of 2001 but the promoter of that show ended up sinking his own ship because of bad business dealings so Crossbreed was sidelined for the show along with many other acts.   Crossbreed continued working on originals in the basement until we were asked to play an outdoor fund raiser.   On this occasion, Crossbreed played it's entire library of original material along with some cover material.   Unfortunately, the show wasn't recorded but the response to the music and the band was a great feeling for all the hard work we had put into the project.

No video or photos exist of the band. Only these rough demos. Sometimes you never think of taking pictures of certain things as you figure they'll always be there. The band garnered much interest back in it's day but then I became ill and the band, it's name and it's music faded from the woodwork. It took me well over 8 months to get well and all my music projects were retired at the time or in Crossbreeds case, finished altogether. I had thought of regrouping the band for some live shows but with the changes in music tastes since the band's beginnings and venues not really catering to our style of music, I'm not sure there would be interest. We'd probably die a fast death. ;-)    Still, with it's vast collection of more than 30 songs sitting in a basement box of tapes, it might be an interesting quest to pursue. Maybe Crossbreed should breath again. I'm just not sure. We shall see.

Crossbreed was a great bunch of guys who loved jamming and recording but most of all writing material. It's sad that my own problems in my life laid the band to rest but maybe it was meant to be.   My only wish is that I had the best versions of the material to showcase.     In the meantime, I have made a few videos of our songs using the graphic I had designed for the band years ago.    You can now listen to 6 ultra rare songs from the local Sault band, Crossbreed.

Crossbreed is one of many local bands that most people didn't even know existed so enjoy this rare taste of Crossbreed's long lost music. If you like what you hear, please pass the music on to your friends with our blessings for listening to it.

Glen "the Freq" Thomas

Crossbreed - I'm On Fire

Crossbreed - Fields of Grey

Crossbreed - Time

Crossbreed - Creole Moon

Crossbreed - Roll On

Crossbreed - The River

Coming Soon

2010-05-18T19:31:00.000-07:00

1. "Swamped", the band you didn't know existed and the music they created that local media snubbed.

2. Video Interview with Flat Stanley

3. "Rush" in the Sault?

Substance Abuse Amongst Musicians

2010-05-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

Substance abuse has always been a huge problem amongst musicians and yes, the problem plagues some of our local musicians too.   It's a growing problem that not only ruins the lives of these musicians but it really doesn't help the music they create.   Some say chemicals help stimulate the creative side of the brain when writing material but if that is in fact true, what is the cost?   I personally see no gains at all but I do see a lot of personal destruction.

My own life was surrounded by some that were alcoholics and drug addicts.   My own father fell to alcohol and finally took his own life. My stepfather too had his problems with alcohol but won the battle in the end.   I've also lost a few friends to drug abuse. I'm not going to sit here and preach the rights and wrongs of what this stuff does to you because simply put, I'm not a scientist or researcher. I don't have the ultimate facts. All I can do is let you know what I've experienced in my own life.

Throughout my own music career in the Sault, I've watched some fabulous musicians be eaten up by the drug culture that seems to always go hand in hand with the music scene.   It's actually so much broader than music but at some point, the music scene got blamed as being the worst for it.    I've always had an extreme hatred for drugs and alcohol.   Anyone who knows me personally or has played in any of the bands I've had over the years knows that to be true.    Nowhere in my personal life will you find alcohol or drugs.   When you see a family member self destruct and while doing so, ruin the lives of others, it's a strong signal that none of this stuff is good.    I'm a quick learner ;-)   Growing up I was amazed at how much alcohol took over my dad.   You could see it taking over him and as it did, you saw the chain reaction envelop the people around him.   For me, I had the will to never fall into the dark hole of alcohol.   The label "social drinker" just puzzled me and upset me.   Even to this day people come up to me and say, "oh, you don't drink? " Like I'm the abnormal one.   I also here the "I just drink to be social" line a lot.   You don't need to fill your body full of chemicals to be "social".    Sadly, a lot of my close friends are falling into the alcohol and chemical trap and the cost is so great that only when you're on the outside of the picture looking in, do you see it.   Some of these close friends are musicians.

I've never understood why so many people just don't say "NO" to all this stuff. You're taught that it hurts you. You're taught it can ruin your life. You're taught that recovery is very slim in most cases, yet, people still fill their bodies with it.   Is it that there is an abundance of simple minded people that just can't understand that or are there just that many people set on killing themselves?   Is there nothing else in this vast world that you could fill your life with that doesn't involve alcohol and drugs? Honestly, is there nothing??? I've never had a problem with saying no to it but as I've gone through life, this seems rare amongst so many others.   I'm also not into the excuses blaming one's childhood as a reason for taking this stuff.   You're taught to not use it and you're taught the consequences, so why even try it? Once you've crossed the line of "trying it", you're no longer following logic.

Over the years in bands I've had to play on stage with musicians that just have to have alcohol and chemicals in their life.   They feel it makes them a better player. It really doesn't but they seem to believe it. If there is a gain, the loses are always far greater.   There is no balance with this crap because in most cases, it causes a negative that harms health and judgment and or other people (family, friends, work). There is also the "craving" factor where it becomes apparent you "need" to have this in your system. People have always asked me why I'm so serious when I play on stage. It's simple. I am extremely focused and while I'm on stage I listen to my own playing and making sure I play the best I can but I also focus on the playing of my fellow bandmates.   I enjoy giving 100 percent during my performance. This is my love and this is my natural high. I enjoy the strive to become a better player and performing the best I can. I rarely achieve a perfect performance but that's always my goal.   When bandmates are under the influence, it affects my own playing.   Having a good time playing live is me trying to achieve a solid performance out of myself but also the band.   Some bands I've been with (not my own personal bands) have been on the floor drunk while playing and I've not stayed long in that environment.    These particular bands never understand why I would leave just because of that.   That's how lost I think these people are. They don't realize they're making a mess out of themselves and that I want no part of their self destruction.    This has happened recently with a band I was playing with.   It's not funny and it's not enjoyable to watch a bandmate falling down drunk in a bar or get so wired on chemicals, he forgets he's playing an instrument.   How can this possibly be enjoyable for an audience to watch? The fact is, it's not.   It's a false illusion. What you are doing is killing yourself for an audience. Slowly but surely, you are ruining your life in public view.   That's the way I see it.   True, it may not be in a single nights performance, but over a month, a year, 2 years, etc... it's self destruction and you're letting an audience witness it. For me, I would rather my epitaph say I was a good musician rather than "he died of self destruction".

In my opinion, creativity is in all of us and it's up to the individual to find it and bring it out if that's what they desire.   Creativity is a "natural" part of being human and it should be brought out in a way that doesn't require chemicals. Alcohol and chemical consumption is not part of human existence. It is ironic though that a human created alcohol and the chemicals that destroy 1000's of lives each year. It makes me wonder if these creators died by their own invention.

At this moment in time, 2 of my friends are being overtaken by chemical and alcohol abuse. It's a dangerous step as their personal lives have hit rock bottom. My point will always be that these abuses will never lift you above rock bottom at these times in your lives but the alcohol and drugs will bury you in the floor of the bottom you have hit. Yes, I am blunt in my hatred for booze and drugs.   I don't have to have tried them to know the damage they've caused.   I have lived around it and believe me, that's the clearer picture.

Eventually the human body burns out from such abuse and it usually leaves a wake of destruction around the individual that abused his or her life OR in some instances, they die alone.   The ones with will power sometimes find a way out of the hole but lots of people give over their freedom to addiction.   They simply give up, saying they can't fight it anymore OR they give in thinking this lifestyle is fun and chant the death line, " I can handle it". The plain fact is you can't handle something that overtakes your mind and your body. That's the logic.

I am worried about these people in my life as they seem to be on a course of self destruction. A few of us are concerned and will intervene soon. We have to. These people are our friends but most of all, have so much yet to give in their lives.

glen "the freq"

Patrick Stewart - The Agawa Canyon Guitar Man

2010-05-17T13:17:00.001-07:00

I first met Patrick Stewart around 1997 in good ole Sault Ste. Marie. Patrick was selling life insurance at the time but as a sideline, he was a singer/guitarist looking to record his first album. My bass player at the time introduced him to me and we connected a bit over the next few months. He would show up at my band's gigs and ask to come up and sing a few songs and we had some good times. He was doing his own solo shows around town trying to build an audience, which he did. He was a strong singer and solid acoustic folk guitarist. The most enjoyable part of Pat's original music was his ability to tell a very clear story. His lyrics drew you in so easily that you felt you were on the same journey he had ventured to get the inspiration to write a particular song.

Patrick was now set to record his first album in 1997 but he had no experience with the recording studio. In true Sault Ste. Marie fashion, producers always seem to come out of the woodwork to volunteer to hopefully do good or in some cases, make a mess of the entire process. Recording for this album would be done at Satellite Sound Studios (now long gone). There was no doubt that Patrick wrote some strong songs and could have easily gone in and done his album with just himself and an engineer and had a project to be proud of at a minimal cost. I also believe that if you're doing your own album just as a demo or to sell locally, you don't really need a producer to control every aspect of the album. In Patrick's case, it was a signal for disaster.

At the time Patrick started recording his album, he had musicians lined up to perform on it along with a producer. He also had a graphic artist for the album's sleeve design. At the time, I was enjoying my own bands and playing around town when one day, I got a desperate call from Patrick saying that things weren't going well and asked if I would play drums and percussion on his album. I said absolutely, I'd love to. As it happened, the producer he had hired in good faith was running way over budget and he and the producer were locking heads at the direction of the project. Strange how some think they know how your song should be. It had gotten ugly and Patrick's spirits were sinking fast. When I got there, my bass player was in tow and we simply told Patrick to play his songs the way he always did in his solo shows and just get the engineer to press record. My bass player and I also said to just have fun and let what happens on tape, happen. The album process picked up speed and for the new batch of musicians, it was an absolute pleasure performing on the remainder of the album. The last song on the album "Maggie Malone" was the entire band just goofing around in one corner of the studio having a blast. Once the album was finally recorded and we listened back to it in the control room, we realized we had a beautiful piece of folk music created.

With the album complete, Patrick set out to perform shows but he also wanted to find a unique way to promote his album. He came up with a brilliant idea that to this day still puts a smile on my face. Patrick decided to approach the Agawa Canyon Train folks and become a singing linesman. They LOVED the idea. Patrick dressed up as a train linesman in vintage clothes and sang a 15 minute set in each train car throughout the trip to Agawa and back. To do this with some kind of amplification, he bought a small P.A. system on wheels that he could sing through and plug his acoustic guitar in yet have the ability to roll it from train car to train car. The audience ate this up like gang busters. He was a huge hit with the tourists and sold tons of copies of his album. He did this for 2 years until he was burnt out from playing and singing. That was a lot of singing especially during the hot summer months but it was worth the effort.

Patrick went on to play out of town and as quietly as he came into the Sault music scene, he mysteriously faded away. I've not heard from him in 10 years and there isn't a sample of his music anywhere that I can find on the internet.

Patrick was a super sweet guy that always had a story to tell. I'll always have fond memories of ordering Mrs. B's Pizza with the band while recording his album at Satellite Sound and then after a session going over to the Stonewalls bar to unwind after a night of recording with the entire band and engineer. Listening to the album as I write this today is a real treat. ;-) It's a shame this album was only done on cassette as there are some beautiful songs on here that should be redone on CD. Probably one of the best songs on the album is "Autumns Turning". That is my personal favourite. It's basically just Patrick and his guitar, a mandolin, harmonica and a backing vocal. It's got this haunting sound to it that makes it stand out from the rest of the album. Great song!!! Another personal fave is the song "Saskatchewan Moon". It was fun to play drums to but it's just an enjoyable song to listen too and it has a fun groove to it.

I really don't know what became of Patrick as some musicians only cross musical paths once or twice in a life time and never see each other again. I do hope he's still playing music as he does have a great gift. For me to be able to let you hear a few tracks of this wonderful album, I had to convert copies of the cassette to digital format which has limited sound quality just because I have a crappy tape deck but at least you will get a taste of the music of Patrick Stewart. I have created an album preview video with segments of each song for you to hear the music and view the album art.

Here is the song order of Patrick Stewart's One Road album.

1. Fee For the Fiddler
2. Whiskey Bay
3. Saskatchewan Moon
4. Autumn's Turning
5. Your Back Pocket
6. About A Train
7. Come Back Home
8. Herself Surprised
9. Piers
10.When She Flies
11.Maggie Malone

Musicians involved were as follows:

Patrick Stewart - Lead Vocals, Guitars
Rick Deevey - Guitars, Mandolin, Whistles, Vocals
Glen Thomas - Percussion, Drums, Vocals (Tracks 3,4,5,7,10,11)
George Ravlich - Bass
Jim Young - Guitar, Mandolin, Harmonica, Vocals
Rick Datson - Drums (Tracks 1,6)
Pierre Schryer - Fiddles
Mike Case - Banjo
Kelly McGillivray - Vocals

Michael Yurich - Catching Up

2010-05-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

There are few musicians in Sault Ste. Marie that have the talent of Michael Yurich. It's that simple. He is a master of guitar, piano and vocals and on top of that I would almost say a music historian as you could talk hours about bands and their careers with him.. He has played in the Sault for years but also across Canada with many bands. During those Sault years, his bands were top draws in our local bars and even today he is remembered for his talents and the bands he had.   His blues rock country band "The Vikings" were well known here, packing bars with their vast variety of music. Mike was in charge of his bands in both sound, style and material. He also knew how to get gigs and he rarely went a weekend without playing. How do I know this? Easy. I spent 2 years playing and touring with Mike in the Viking band. ;-) In my 30 years as a musician, I've never learned as much about music as I did playing in the Viking band with Mike. Throughout those 2 years we worked pretty much every day. We'd work full and partial weeks and toured on both the U.S. side of the border and Southern Ontario. He simply found the work, and we followed.   Mike set the tone for songs and how they were to be arranged. All we had to do was learn our stuff and show up. It was all done for us. You might call it a band on cruise control.

As a musician, I was in awe of his playing.   To watch him have a guitar strapped around his neck and play some great stuff and then walk over to the keyboards and play some boogie woogie piano line and then yank out a harmonica and play that all in the same song while punching out vocals was absolutely impressive. In all the time I worked with him, I respected him and what he was doing. Not everything was rosie but I will say that I left that band a far better musician with a respect for many more styles of music. Mike recently showcased his talents for the wonderful local concert "18 Forever" where he was a backup musician and soloist for a number of the bands participating. That show alone was a blast to see.

Mike's new album "Catching Up" is a bit mellower than some of the material we use to play in the Vikings band but his talent is easily displayed on this CD. Mike is like many musicians doing their own home recording these days. The album contains 10 songs that range between jazz and blues and it also contains songs I did with Mike on stage many times which are "World of Silence" and "Constantly Blue" both being crowd faves at our shows. I remember us arranging these songs in his old apartment on Woodward Ave. back in the day. Mike's lead guitar playing is extremely melodic on this CD and the interplay between that and his singing is a true strong point on this album. Filling in the spaces of a song with beautiful guitar riffs is Mike's trademark. Mike gave me this album a few years ago and it was in my player for a while. The only negative thing about the album is that it uses electronic drums and drum machines which actually surprises me because Mike is a huge fan of drummers and real drums. This album is not for everyone only because blues and jazz seem to turn people off these days but it's a great way to hear a solid Sault musician who opened the doors for a lot of other musicians in this city. I hope those musicians gave this CD a listen in support.

Now, the unfortunate part is that the change in music over the years makes it hard for talented players to keep up to the pace. You have to adapt and evolve in some ways.   The music scene did change and has continued to change and not all for the good. With that, Mike relocated to Sarnia last I heard which is actually a regular stomping ground for him.   I just know Mike will play guitar until his last breath. It's probably his most loyal friend and it's got him out of tough spots throughout his life. ;-)

Here is the track listing for the album Catching Up.
1. Catching Up with the News
2. Close the Door
3. Singing the Blues
4. Constantly Blue
5. Didn't Say Goodbye
6. I know
7. Walk Away
8. World of Silence
9. You're No Angel
10.Into the Light

I see no signs of this album for sale on line but I'm sure it's in some of the local Sault CD joints. Definitely try the Rad Zone as they are amongst the biggest supporters of local talent.

Here is Mike playing "Constantly Blue" from the CD, live, a song I did with him many times in the past and he still sings and plays it beautifully. Enjoy

The World's Greatest Drummer in the Sault

2010-05-16T10:18:00.000-07:00

Many may not know this and might not care but many years ago, the one, the only Buddy Rich and his Swingin' Big Band graced the stage of the White Pines Auditorium back in the 1980's.   Who is Buddy Rich you ask?
Buddy is said to be the world's greatest drummers and if you do a history check on him and read articles of other famous drummers, you know this to be true. One just has to listen to his vast music contributions or even watch videos of his stunning playing with his band to get what people are talking about. Buddy Rich is said to have been a true natural on a drum kit. Having started to play at the age of 2 in a Vaudeville stage act, he quickly became a jazz music icon with almost supernatural talent. His technique on the drums eclipses most drummers to this day. With his orchestra he was able to focus on and hear every instrument playing on stage and knew if certain musicians weren't pulling their weight. His mind was able to grasp all these players performances plus give a stellar one himself. You can see him doing that on some videos when he's looking around at his band members.. He ran his bands strictly and was easily a perfectionist. Many of us discovered Buddy Rich on his many visits on the Johnny Carson show back in the 1970's.    For me, it was a ritual of sorts as when I knew he was on, I'd have my old Sears hand held tape deck recording his performance off the T.V. speaker. No multitasking systems back then. I would then try to learn some of what he did.   For any drummer, just to learn one small thing by Buddy Rich was a challenge.   It is said that drummers around the world are still trying to figure out some things he did and I've even read artilcles by the famous drummers Dave Weckl and Steve Smith who state this.   It is also said Buddy took many of his drumming secrets to his grave.

I was so lucky in my life to have seen Buddy Rich perform HERE in Sault Ste. Marie back in 1980.
Buddy was at his peak in popularity at that time but as a drummer, he was always at his peak. I've just never seen anyone play that consistently in my life before or since seeing Buddy live.    My seat was so close
to the front of the stage that I could see him clear as day.   Yes, I wish I was dead center but I had great seats none the less. The first thing I remember about the show was the power of his band when they kicked into the first song.   It shocked the hell out of me.   What a force of music.   The audience was in awe almost immediately. I couldn't take my eyes off that stage as for me and I'm sure a lot of others it was like a religious experience. Yes, we were in front of the god of drums. ;-)   During his band's performance he featured numerous members in his band as they had their solo spots. Buddy himself was featured in 3 absolutely stunning solos and all 3 solos were drastically different.   Most of us can barely come up with one |O|. During the performance though, Buddy stopped his band in the middle of a song to actually tell the person running the spot light to focus on the musician soloing and not just him.   Buddy was upset that the spotlight focus was always on him.   You could tell he was ticked off but anyone who knew about Buddy's history, knew he would let you have it if you ticked him off or weren't doing something right. Like I said, he was a perfectionist.   The show was truly amazing and the aura of that show has never ever left me. It has inspired me to this day and Buddy's playing still inspires me like 1000's of others.

What saddens me is that Buddy died too soon.   One of his final series of performances was with Frank Sinatra and he had not lost his stride one bit.   He was still amazing in a live video of this show even though he was physically frail.   Buddy had so many heart attacks and heart surgeries in his life and none of that affected him or his playing. It actually made him up his performance.   He was inhuman.   It is said that after his 2nd heart attack, he was back on stage only a few days later, ripping up the drums.

What angers me about the younger generation of musicians is that they never seem to research the history of music.   Many people love drummers like John Bonham, Neil Peart, Dave Weckl and more but don't realize how much these people ripped off Buddy Rich's licks. Some have even taken credit for something that was clearly Buddy Rich.   One of these is Tommy Lee of Motley Crue who did the spinning drumset thing.   This is a Buddy Rich gimmick that was done a bit more crudely but it was still Buddy Rich.   His drumset rolled to the side where as Tommy Lee's rolled foward. Still, it's Buddy who did it first.   Buddy did this for a fun thing as he didn't need gimmicks with the talent he had. Some have said John Bonham had the greatest bass drum foot for what he used to do. He is great BUT Buddy did all that long before Bonham.   My key point is research your music history and see where your favourite drummer or musicians influences take you. Buddy Rich had his influences but the difference is that Buddy was a leader and an innovator. It is stated in the book " Traps, the Drum Wonder: The Life of Buddy Rich" by Mel Torme that Buddy Rich was the greatest drummer to have ever drawn breath. To the many thousands of people who saw him live, you know this to be true.   I am happy to say that I saw him live and I agree with Mel. ;-)

The ticket shown above is my own from 1980 and it's one of my most prized possessions.

Glen "the Freq".

Brian Tremblay - Photosynthesis

2010-05-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

Brian Tremblay is a successful Sault business man, photographer, writer, father and musician. His musical roots come from his total love of the Beatles and their music. His music career actually started around the same time as mine. Actually, we were in a few bands together in our highschool days playing Knack songs and tunes by The Cars. His original goal in life was to be a broadcaster and he did do that for some time but along the way, he was bitten by the photography bug and has excelled at that throughout his life. I remember Brian having a dark room for photography in his mom's home. Throughout his musical career Brian has had his ups and downs with the local music scene just like we've all had, but at one point, he quit altogether. BUT, music has a strange way of pulling you back in and that happened with Brian. In the early years Brian wanted to do something unique with the creation of a "tributes style" show band but at the same time wanted to make money at it. That is very hard to do in the Sault. He found out that the Sault doesn't take kindly to change nor does it really give you a chance to explore that far from it's center ground. With growing frustration, he quit. I had long talks with him about the music scene saying you have to do it for the love of it first and if money happens, great but if you're out for the money first, the Sault isn't the place to be music wise. Well, I'm not quite sure his opinions have changed but he did throughout all of his hard work discover the freedom and pleasure of writing and recording his own music. Brian has already released one album "Road Hockey" locally and he just released "Steel Man" his follow up album.

Brian just seems to love writing and I can only assume that it gives him a freedom that doing cover material never gave him. I can relate to that. ;-) Steel Man is an album of memories for Brian and even myself because I know some of the topics he's singing about because we both lived pretty much in the same area.
Brian and I have been friends for years and have experienced similar things musically. Brian's music surprises me in that I don't hear his Beatles influences in the music but again, the lyrics I do relate to. Some songs from his first album related to growing up playing street hockey or when milk was actually delivered to your door every morning in glass bottles. Yuppers, I remember those days. I'm old. |O| Milk tasted so good back then. ;-) His songs are almost a history lesson on life in the Sault in the late 60's early 70's. Brian's new album "Steel Man" has some darker subject matter which include, dealing with bouts of depression but also upbeat songs of his teenage years and the love in his life. After listening to all the samples on his promo site you can tell his music has grown since his first album but he also keeps a light hearted fun approach to some of his songs too. The title track "Steel Man" is about his dad Ted who passed away some years ago. I knew his dad and I'm sure he'd be proud of what Brian has accomplished.

Brian has been involved with guitarist/ engineer Rusty McCarthy who helped him out with the production side of his albums and all the hard work shows in the final product. Brian's live band is Buffalo Alice and some of his original material gets played at their shows. This year, Brian's band finally hits the Rotaryfest main stage so his music will hit a wider audience. His wife Lynn, a great singer in her own right, is also in the band and contributes to his albums.

I've known Brian for decades and one thing I love about him is that he's not afraid to voice his opinion. I respect that. Some just beat around the bush with what they want to say but Brian lets you know what's on his mind without flinching. Hmmmm. Kinda like me ;-) Some frown on that but Brian is still recording and performing and most of all, doing it his way, while others have faded away. That's gotta mean something. ;-)

Brian's music can be found on the CDbaby website at the link below. You can buy his albums or individual songs. Be sure to check his band out at the Rotaryfest concerts this July.

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/BrianTremblay1

In Memory of Robin Campbell

2010-05-14T08:03:00.000-07:00

To Many, Robin Campbell was the Sault's answer to Sanford and Son or junk collector Eustace Haney
on the Green Acres t.v. shows.   Robin was the ultimate collector, pack rat and smiling flim flam man.   He was quite the character yet to most of us, he was a wonderful person, eager drummer and singer, good friend and father, but most of all, someone that just lit up a room when he walked in. I knew Robin for decades and enjoyed many hours of talking about cars, drums and life in general.   Robin had the knack for finding gold mines of rare musical instruments in his travels and getting them dirt cheap.   Of course he always wanted to make a huge profit so you had to know how to bicker price when dealing with Robin.   If he liked you, he'd cave on price as long as you stayed and talked with him a while. :-) For years, Robin drove a van that was full top to bottom with used music gear to sell or trade.   When he found something you might need, he would pretty much drive to your house and start his mobile auction at your door step. He use to make me laugh when he'd come to my home because as he was talking the sale of the stuff he had, he would be scanning your yard, garage or basement for stuff he wanted to buy from you even though it wasn't for sale.    I owned a 1964 Corvette years ago and he tried his hardest to trade stuff for that car.   He loved cars. Robin use to drive an MG car if I remember correctly but he had so many that I'm not sure of the model.   One of the last and Robin's most favourite drumsets was his Rogers cutting board finish drums.   They were mint and he bragged about them so much. The kit was beautiful. I last saw that drumset in Robin's new garage that he built but sadly didn't enjoy long.

Robin use to visit so many bands on a weekend and each bar he visited loved it when he got up and sang. He had a huge fan base. I always let Robin up to sing a few songs of which one of his faves was the Chuck Berry classic "Johnny Be Good". The place would go nuts. To a younger crowd you might shrug your shoulders now a days and not think twice about this person singing but Robin had a giant personality that touched people more than anyone I've known since. True, you may not have had the chance to have known him very well, but bring his name up in a conversation with older musicians and they'll know who he was instantly. He was one of a kind.

Robin eventually retired the van and started a flea market on Bruce Street.   Sadly the building is long gone and is a vacant lot now but at the time, It was huge.   I have great memories of that place because it was a watering hole for musicians even though Robin was selling everything under the sun. He still had a corner for music gear.   My favourite vision of Robin is going into that shop and seeing him sitting next to his antique fridge (1940's) and him sucking back a pop. He loved soda. He drank a lot of pop in his final years.   Robin's business moved onto Queen Street for a short time and then one more time to Wellington Street.

I knew at the time he was moving his shop around that he was on hard times financially but he was still chipper and he always seemed to hide his disappoint from you but if you knew him like me and a few others, you knew something wasn't right. Around the time he moved his shop to Wellington Street, I had my own flower shop with my wife on upper Wellington Street and we'd visit each other every other day. Instead of trading music gear, we were trading flowers and nick nacks |O|. One day, I went to his shop and it wasn't open.    I thought it was strange but never thought too much about it but asked fellow musicians what was up. No one knew.    Less than 2 weeks later, Robin was dead.    Rumour has it he went in to the hospital complaining of stomach pain. He needed an operation and during the operation found out he was full of cancer.   I'm not sure if this is true or not but I do know he was fine the last time I saw him which was 2 weeks before his death.   Robin was in my store chatting up a storm like he always did. To say it was a shock was an understatement.   To go from laughing together one day and then never seeing him again a few
weeks later was a shock.

His store and the items in it were liquidated and a lot of us musicians were there for that. It was a sad end for such a sweet guy.   I still have an eerie feeling when I think about being their during that sale of his property. Most of us musicians didn't buy a thing.   In my case, like many others, we were there to pay our respects like we always did at his store when he was alive.   The building was broken down and just crammed full of stuff.   It's just a haunting memory for me. Seeing his old desk empty was heart breaking.

Robin's funeral was attended by many musicians as almost every musician at that time knew him.

It's been a long time since his death and I can probably speak for most musicians that knew him that we're
all missing him in our lives in some small way.   When I walk into a pawn shop or music store and see some old used music gear, a thought of him always pops into my mind and I just know he's looking down over my shoulder trying to bicker the price. |O|   I have an old Broadview Snare that he gave me that I still have. It's broken with no skins on it. It's rare.   He wanted a fortune for it when he first got it but then one day, he just
gave it to me and smiled and said have a nice day.   I never fixed the snare and it remains in that same condition because in a way, it reminds me of him.   He always tried to sell you broken stuff and this snare just makes me smile |O|.   I miss him.

glen "the freq"

Where Are They Now?

2010-05-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

I'm looking for info about these musicians and bands of the Sault's past music scene.

Keith Danby - guitar Dan Boden - bass
Armstrong - drummer
Screwge - band
Old Hat - band
Undercover - band

The Mike Cliffe Experience

2010-05-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Who is Mike Cliffe you ask? Mike is a guitarist/ song writer from Sault Ste. Marie. He is in my opinion one of the more unique song writers in our area. To my ears, Mike's writing is truly experimental and all about expression. He doesn't stick to one style nor does he seem to want to bite into what is mainstream music. I first connected with Mike's music on the Revernation site where tons of independent artists like Mike and myself showcase our music. He has easily 50 songs on his site that range from rock to the ultimate edge of bizarre.   I can honestly say I've not heard anyone like this locally. For me, the outer edge of creativity whether it appeals to the masses or not, appeals to me. Experimental music has always been part of my life.
Listening to Mike's music just keeps me wondering what he'll dream up next.   I've mentioned to Mike that his music should be a score to a movie which is my own objective when writing music.   Mike's music is not for everyone but I don't think that bother's him at all. He is a writing machine and I think deep down that if you like just a part of what he's doing, he's happy with that but the bottom line, he's a writer just for pure enjoyment.    Mike is one of the many independent musicians writing songs but also recording their material within the walls of their own homes these days. With full control and enough gear to get the job done, the freedom to write and record on home computers has never been easier.

Recently, Mike asked me to do a drum track for a song of his called "Bad Regime".   It's an interesting concept in that we aren't playing in the same building.   He recorded his guitar track to a click track on his software and then sent me the sound file and the speed settings of the song. All this was sent via the internet. I then loaded his guitar part into my computer using my own software and set the speed to his settings. I then recorded my drum parts. I then send my drum sound file back to him and he places it in his computer as he will be putting it all together.   He also has a female singer from over seas doing keyboards and vocals on the song.   If it works great, but if it doesn't, it's still a unique experience to try.   I've done it with other players and the results are quite cool. ;-) One thing about Mike is that he is constantly listening to new artists and their music and passing his findings on to others. There isn't a day that goes by without a Mike Cliffe recommendation popping up on Facebook of some new artist he likes.   Being that I love new music, I always make an effort to check his links out.

Mike's influences are similar to mine which are the, Jeff Beck, King Crimson (Robert Fripp), Hendrix, Zappa arena of music.   His music is out there but if you want to hear something outside the box, give Mike's music a listen. Visit his website at the link below.

http://www.reverbnation.com/mikecliffe

YES, We Have a Musician's Union

2010-05-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

For those interested, there is a musician's union here in Sault Ste. Marie. The exact title is the American Federation of Musicians or AFM. Here are the details.

Local 276, American Federation of Musicians

Sault Ste Marie, ON

Chartered: January 1st, 1918

PO Box 641 Stn Main

Sault Ste Marie, ON P6A 5N2

Phone: 705-254-2210

Fax: 705-253-2140

Email: afm276@soonet.ca

Email 2: dragonslayer52ca@yahoo.ca

Office Hours

10:00 Am to 3:30 PM SatBy Appointment Mon thru Fri @ 254-2210

Dues if Paid Annually: $125.00
Dues if Paid Semi-Annually : $75.00
Local 276 Initiation Fee (one-time): $10.00
Federation Initiation Fee (one-time): $65.00

Why do you need the union? Well, I'll tell you from my own experiences which is only a part of what they do.

For years I played with bands that did shows in the United States. Playing in the U.S. is not as simple and loading your bongos in the truck and going to a U.S. bar and play. There is red tape, and a lot of it. The AFM is experienced in understanding that red tape and helping you through it so your gigging over the border can be fun and hopefully stress free. In the days I was playing in the U.S. (pre 9/11) the AFM got my band members P2 entertainment visas to legally play in the States. These forms dealt with contracts with venues but also background checks and equipment rosters along with tax info and more. AFM did a thorough job of making sure you were totally free and clear to play and receive money from your gigs. Bottom line is that you need experience in dealing with jobbing in the U.S. or other countries for that matter and you don't want the headaches of trying to do it yourself. You're in it for the music, not the politics. Yes, some have done it themselves and I've known a few that tried and they lost a ton of money and didn't get to play in the U.S. At the time I was using a P2 visa, which was for over 6 years, our paperwork was complete and clear within a months time where a band I knew doing it on their own still had not heard a word after 6 months. You can't book gigs over the boarder if you don't know if you can get across in time. Being part of the AFM let me focus on my job at hand which was managing my band and playing music.

The AFM can help you with information on contracts along with copyrights. They will also explain things until you understand what you're getting into. ;-) All of this does come with a cost and that is union dues. It's a yearly fee and if you're gigging steady, get involved. You won't regret it.

glen "the freq"

"Northern Heartbeat" the Lost Album

2010-05-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

Buried in the archives of our local library is a very rare and forgotten album by a group of Sault musicians called "Northern Heartbeat". This album was compiled and recorded in April of 1998 for what was called the Sault's Homecoming which brought back many Sault folks that had moved away, back for a festival. It was a huge undertaking to put this project together but it did happen and it was a great success. Unknown to almost everyone was the production of an album for this festival which was to be a compilation of original music by local artists. The theme was to have material related to the Sault or Algoma region. Many musicians either submitted songs or were hired to record new songs for the album. I was part of this and recorded drums for 4 new songs. The producer of this project was folk singer song writer Patrick Stewart. It was recorded at Satellite Sound by Bob Macleod and all the graphics were done by Rick Deevey. Rick's paintings are also featured on the inner liner of this CD. Visit Rick's site here. Rick Deevey's Art and Music Site

The album contained 18 songs plus a 19th song hidden at the end of the CD which only a handful of people knew about, including me. ;-) The album was completed on time and was ready to be sold at the Homecoming event but then it quickly vanished and as far as I know, the album was never made for public sale. Why you ask? There lies the mystery.

Rumours went around that a person on the Homecoming committee wrote a song for the album but was infuriated with how the song turned out. This person only wrote the words and had no musical background but left it in the hands of the producer to make a song out of it. This person heard the song after the album was printed so by then, it was too late to change anything. This person ended up sacking the entire album because their song didn't turn out the way they imagined. They never once came to the sessions so there was no way to anticipate the outcome. This is the story I've heard but no matter what, the album just vanished. Somewhere in Sault Ste. Marie there are boxes of this album with an inch of dust on them. How was the album? Overall, it's pretty sappy and dated in sound but there are moments that do shine. My memory of it is the enjoyment I got out of playing with musicians I never had a chance to play with prior to that album. It was also one of the last projects Satellite Sound did on that scale before closing.

Recently, I revisited the music on this album as it appears I am one of the few that has a copy. A keyboardist on the project Eugene Gassi asked me to give him a copy of the song he wrote for the album. Like I said, there are good and bad moments on the album but the work involved was something to be proud of. This was done at a time when the music scene was hopping locally. It was quite the melting pot of musicians on this disc.

Producer Patrick Stewart had his own album out at the time called "One Road" which I also took part in and he was sneaky enough to slip one of his songs on the Northern Heartbeat album as a hidden track. The only way to hear this song was to play track #18 and continue to let it play after the song ended. After 43 seconds silence, a race car sound is heard and then Patrick's hidden track starts to play. BRILLIANT! I came across the track by accident when I first heard the CD on my home stereo. In my opinion, it's one of the better songs on the album.

You can find a copy of this album at your local library apparently, if you feel you are interested in hearing it. I've seen it advertised on the Library site. I may post the hidden track by Patrick Stewart in a later post.

glen "the freq"

The Rad Zone

2010-05-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Always a great supporter of local musicians and music collectors, Len and the staff at the Rad Zone are always interested in the local music scene. You will see Len at the Rotaryfest 2nd Stage events helping to sell products of Sault musicians. They always have a spot on their shelves for locally produced works. The Rad Zone also carries collector books, comics, rare LP records and some collector toys along with it's vast CD selection. They also deal in used stereo equipment. I recently purchased some JBL speakers for my recording studio there.
If you are looking for hard to find items, they do order material in. Len found some ultra rare recordings of a band I love called The Easybeats. ;-) Check out the Rad Zone in the Wellington Square Mall.

New CD's by Some Local Bands

2010-05-13T06:01:00.000-07:00

First on the list in the new CD "Spin" by Big Wheel and the Spokes. Featuring the talents of JAY CASE ~ guitar, vocals, CLIFF ALLOY ~ drums, backing vocals, FRANK DERESTI ~ bass, backing vocals. The music is a smooth merger of jazz, blues and funk.
I immediately hear influences of "The Meters" in a few of their tunes who are among my favourite bands. ;-) There is also a James Brown influence. The album was recorded live off the floor at Stereo Soul Studio here in Sault Ste. Marie. Another sweet addition is a horn section on the album. Big Wheel and the Spokes are embarking on a short summer tour so check them out if you can. They presently tour as a 3 piece.

Listen to a few tracks off their new and past albums on their official site below.
Big Wheel and the Spokes

Next on the list are local rockers "Wishbone" who's second album should be coming out any day now. The title was supposedly "St. Misery" but rumour has it that may have changed. No word on the new title yet. The 2nd album was recorded in late 1999 and early 2010 at Stereo Soul Studio in Sault Ste. Marie. Their first album "Making Wishes Breaking Bones" garnered pretty good interest and sales and sold well over 400 copies in a short time last year. While that album was still warm, Wishbone decided to go back in the studio to nail down a follow up. The new album contains a better variety of songs and easily shows the band experimenting in new directions. Song's like "The Messenger" and "Dream the Dream" are destined to become fan favourites judging by the band's performance of these songs live at last years Rotaryfest. Wishbone has undergone a few member changes in it's history but for the sake of the music, both of the albums recorded were done by this line up. DENNIS DUGUAY guitar and vocals, GLEN THOMAS on Drums and vocals, JEREMEY SALATUK on guitar and vocals, CHRIS SMITH on bass and vocals. Yes, I'm the drummer on these 2 albums :-) You can listen to 3 new songs off the new album on their myspace page or you can also visit the Wishbone Tribute page at the links below. Wishbone is probably one of only a few local rock bands that are not in the metal style. I like to call that "old school" rock. ;-) Influences range from Big Sugar, Thin Lizzy, Gun's and Roses and even Blue Rodeo yet, in their music, it's hard to see that but it's there. :-)

The Official Wishbone Site
Wishbone Tribute Site

Wanted: Old Drumsets

2010-05-13T05:11:00.000-07:00

I am on the search for old drums or drumsets in any condition. For years I have been restoring drumsets as a hobby but also for Christmas Cheer. I'll fix kits up and pick a family to give a drumset to who really can't afford one just to help get their kids into music. I'm also into collecting drumsets of special interest. These kits can just be that they have a unique finish, or hardware or even sound. Most of the kits I collect are pre 1970's but I will consider any kit and at least have a look at it. I am always looking for Gretsch and Slingerland drums in any condition but also Ludwig, Yamaha, Coronet, Stewart, Hoshino, Leedy, Tempo, Star, etc. If you have any old kits or pieces lying around, let me know. We'll wheel and deal. If you're scrapping something, let me know first. I may be interested.

Message me here ;-)

glen "the freq"

Rotaryfest 2nd Stage

2010-05-12T07:54:00.000-07:00

It's Rotarfest time again and what better way to celebrate the Sault's arts than by showcasing original music and artwork this July. Submissions are now being taken for this years line up which will be held on July 16th, 2010. Visit the web site to enter the show. You will see two sections on the right side of the official Rotaryfest 2nd Stage site. One for artists, and one for musicians. If you're a musician, you must submit 3 to 5 original songs, including a photo and a short bio.
It's a well organized event and normally sound is provided by Crank Sound Distribution. They also supply the drumset. Deadline was May 7 2010 but last year they extended it a bit so I'm sure they'll do the same this year. Word has it Scott Kennedy is apparently not involved with the 2nd Stage duties this year which will put a damper on things. He's been involved for years with Rotary.

My own band Flat Stanley entered. Hope to see you there.

Remembering Rainhorses

2010-05-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

It was 1994 when I got my first taste of the local folk rock band Rainhorses led by singer/guitarist/songwriter Chris Belsito. The band had an interesting sound, almost gloomy in their first originals. The band recorded their self titled album with guitarist Brian Oja, Paul Blair and a few other musicians that their names escape me.
Brian and I were good friends at that time so when the Rainhorses lost their practice space, I rented them my basement for a while. Their drummer at the time decided to leave and I became their drummer. George Ravlich became their bass player after Paul moved out of town shortly after recording their debut album.
Rainhorses went on to play some great gigs and record some wonderful music. Some these include opening for Great Big Sea, Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, Colin James plus showcases at festivals like the Northern Lights Festival in Sudbury. The band recorded an album called "August Mask" and a later album called "Turbulence" that sadly never got completed. Some songs were recorded for it however and are posted on
the official Myspace site. Rainhorses combined folk rock with some interesting rhythms and harmony vocals to produce a very unique sound for a Sault band. The music was easy to listen to but had a deep lyrical center based on Chris's writing. Some compared our music to Blue Rodeo, Hemingway Corner and even Crosby Stills and Nash which was a huge compliment. Rainhorses wrote a ton of songs, some never seeing the light of day but they exist on tapes that were recorded in my basement. Some of these songs are now on the Rainhorses Reverbnation site and are FREE to listen too.

I left Rainhorses after doing an outdoor show at Cornfest here locally, searching for more of a progressive rock band to fill my creative bug but as years have passed, I realized I made a bad error in judgment. We all make mistakes but I feel now that Rainhorses could have gone on to bigger and better things had we all focused a bit more. We all just seemed to be searching for something better never realizing that we had the perfect situation right under our noses. Live and learn. I still get people asking about that band via the internet and yes in person and I hope one day, Rainhorses regroups for a show or 2 or even to record more music. You never know. Until then, enjoy the sounds or Rainhorses on these 2 sites.

The Official Rainhorses Site

The Official Rainhorses Reverbnation Music Site

The Ravlich of Oz

2010-05-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

Local sound guru George "Rav" Ravlich and his merry crew from Crank Sound Distribution have been doing wonders for the local play "Wizard of Oz". Reviews of the show and the audio have been great. George has his hands in almost everything sound these days with top gear and techs you can't go wrong. Apparently George had some nice lighting effects for the Wizard show. None the less, George has been a staple in the upcoming Rotary Fest 2nd Stage productions and hopefully he'll be doing it again this year. I'll let you know ;-).

The Latest Phat

2010-05-11T13:24:00.001-07:00

Returning once again to the good ole Soo are Jason Talifer and Joe Laverne of the band Phatstick. It's been a while since this band has played local ground but they never disappoint when they do play.
Their debut CD still graces my player from time to time and I'm still not sure why these guys just didn't hit the U.S. to try and make it. Sorry, but Canada just seems to be a bit shy on grasping good talent. None the less if you can find their CD, BUY IT! It's one of my favourite local band CD's. Phatstick will be performing at Foggy Notions May 28th.

Case's Music Changes Ownership

2010-05-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

After a decade of serving our local musicians, Mike Case has turned the helm over of his music store to Jay Case and company. Mike has been and continues to be a well respected music icon in our local community but years of health problems have led him to pass the torch of his well established music teaching school. It is still in the family name and also in good hands as Jay Case will surely continue the Mike Case tradition of quality music lessons. All the best to Mike, Jay and family on their new ventures. ;-)

The Barking Eye

2010-05-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

"The Barking Eye" is a news blog to help promote music in my local area. It's a simple blog that will hopefully help people become aware of local bands, who they are, what they're doing and the music they create. From time to time I will have video interviews and original music showcases. I will also feature some info on local graphic artists from time to time. I wanted to create a very basic info site, that was easy to control and update. This site will deal with all styles of music in our local area which ranges from country, rock, metal, jazz, etc. Stay tuned as the site develops.

Glen "The Freq" Thomas