FM 90.1【言樂坊】

恭喜發財!

2007-02-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

Oh maaan... It's been a pretty busy couple of weeks. But, I have got to take some time to wish you a prosperous and exciting Chinese new year. May happiness comes to your door in the year of the boar. Gong Hei Fat Choy! I can already smell the roasted pigs coming... (oh, how ironic...)

MP3 for your listening pleasure:

1. Gorillaz - Hong Kong
2. No Luck Club - Chinese Head Tax Meshup

美國樂團: Red Sparowes

2007-01-29T17:41:00.000-08:00

May 23, 1958: Mao Tse Tung initiates the Great Leap Forward, his second five-year plan for the People's Republic of China. In addition to imposing impossibly high quotas on mainland farmers (to produce both grain in their fields and shoddy steel in their backyard furnaces) the Chairman insists that the countrys four greatest evilsrats, mosquitoes, flies and sparrowsmust be exterminated in order to maximize production. Villagers are instructed to scream and bang pots and pans to keep the sparrows in flight until the birds die of exhaustion. Soon, the sparrow population is drastically reduced, leaving no natural predator for the countrys locustswhich proceed to decimate Chinas crops. The result is possibly the worst famine in human history. Between 1958 and 1961, as many as 43 million Chinese die of starvation. Meanwhile, local government authorities falsify agricultural reports in order to avoid Maos often senseless wrath. Soldiers are dispatched to villages to find grain that the peasants are accused of hiding. Thousands of villagers are tortured and murdered in the search for grain stores that never existed. When they run out of bark and grass to eat, peasants in some provinces resort to cannibalism.

The Chairman: Where is the grain? The people deceive their country. Relieve them of the ravages of the sparrow, and they welcome the havoc of the locust. What guidance will they accept, if not Mine? What punishment shall I mete out, if not everything at My disposal?

The Proletariat: How is it that our Leader cannot see us starving? Why do we continue to toil in vain? Is not revolution in the hearts and minds of the people? If political power grows out of the barrel of a gun, perhaps we are harvesting the wrong crops.

This is an exact quote I found from the myspace page of the L.A.-based post rock/atmospheric/metal band Red Sparowes (formed by members of heavy metal bigwigs Isis, Neurosis, etc.) The band debuted in 2005 with an astounding release "At the Soundless Dawn" and is now on tour in support of their sophomore album "Every Red Heart Shines Toward the Red Sun". The album is said to follow the story of Great Leap Forward 大躍進, a fanatic period of rapid industrialization led by Chairman Mao that has been told on many movies and books. Regardless what your sentiments are towards the Cultural Revolution, I highly recommend you catch this band live. They will be playing at the Pat's Pub in Vancouver on March 20. Trust me... this time you might want to bring your ear plug.

"Every Red Heart Shines Toward the Red Sun" (2006) Tracklist:

1. The Great Leap Forward Poured Down Upon Us One Day Like a Mighty Storm, Suddenly and Furiously Blinding Our Senses
2. We Stood Transfixed in Blank Devotion as Our Leader Spoke to Us, Looking Down On Our Mute Faces With a Great, Raging, and Unseeing Eye
3. Like the Howling Glory of the Darkest Winds, This Voice Was Thunderous and the Words Holy, Tangling Their Way Around Our Hearts and Clutching Our Innocent Awe
4. A Message of Avarice Rained Down Upon Us and Carried Us Away Into False Dreams of Endless Riches.
5. 'Annihilate the Sparrow, That Stealer of Seed, and Our Harvests Will Abound; We Will Watch Our Wealth Flood In.'
6. And by Our Own Hand Did Every Last Bird Lie Silent in Their Puddles, the Air Barren of Song as the Clouds Drifted Away. For Killing Their Greatest Enemy, the Locusts Noisily Thanked Us and Turned Their Jaws Toward Our Crops, Swallowing Our Greed Whole
7. Millions Starved and Became Skinnier and Skinnier, While Our Leaders Became Fatter and Fatter
8. Finally, as That Blazing Sun Shone Down Upon Us, Did We Know That True Enemy Was the Voice of Blind Idolatry; and Only Then Did We Begin to Think for Ourselves

um... i guess they are trying to show off their literary prowess with these titles. :)

樂團官方網頁: Red Sparowes
樂團 Myspace: Red Sparowes

日本樂團: Boris + Michio Kurihara

2007-01-21T17:24:00.000-08:00

Released by Portuguese label Pedal Records, here's the latest offering from heavy rocker Boris - a collaborated effort with Michio Kurihara. Some pretty wild guitar riffs I must say.

"Rainbow" (2007) Tracklist:

1. Rafflesia
2. Rainbow
3. Starship Narrator
4. My Rain
5. Shine
6. You Laughed Like a Water Mark
7. Fuzzy Reactor
8. No_1 Sweet No _1
9. ...and, I Want

樂團官方網頁: Boris

趣事推介: Têtes à claques

2007-01-20T21:40:00.000-08:00

When I saw these couple days ago, my jaw dropped. Têtes à claques is an internet-based tv show from French Canada (more precisely... Quebec). It sure looks pretty funny. Watch and you'll see what I mean. It's about time we mortals learn some Français!

官方網頁: Têtes à claques

展覽: Germaine Koh @ Centre A

2007-01-17T20:50:00.000-08:00

For almost a year, I used to ride the 160 bus to work five times a week. Everytime the bus go pass the intersection between East Hastings and Main St. (and continues on to a nice little bank called Pigeon Park Savings), there are always rolls of street people lining up at the return-it depot waiting to cash in on the empty bottles they've salvaged from the dumpsters. Reflecting on this poverty-riden neighbourhood, Germaine Koh has created an art installation, currently on display at Centre A until Feb 16.

藝人官方網頁: Germaine Koh
展館官方網頁: Centre A

最新一Gig: Live @ Videotage

2007-01-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

For more details, please visit Lona Records

加拿大樂團: The Bicycles

2007-01-12T22:26:00.000-08:00

Toronto's five-piece The Bicycles are Matt Beckett, Drew Smith, Randy Lee, Dana Snell, and Andrew Scott. Their musical influences largely draw from the 80s from the Beach Boys to the Monkees. Their debut album "The Good The Band and The Cuddly" proves that catchy songs always have a place in our hearts (...or on the dance floor). Check out some their tunes, and you can feel the hugs and kisses coming through.

"The Good The Band and The Cuddly" (2006) Tracklist:

01. BBBicycles
02. Australia
03. I will Appear for you
04. Gotta Get Out
05. All Over Again
06. Ghost Town
07. Touques & Longjohns
08. The Defeat
09. Luck of Love
10. Paris Be Mine
11. Cuddly Toy
12. Randy's Song
13. Please Don't Go
14. Sure Was Great
15. Homework
16. Pomp & Circumstance
17. 2 Girls From Montreal
Bonus. I Know We Have To Be Apart

藝人/樂團官方網頁: The Bicycles
藝人/樂團 Myspace: www.myspace.com/thebicycles

香港藝人/ 樂團: D:ve

2007-01-12T20:53:00.000-08:00

D:ve aka Clive is, all in all, a minimalist. Since 2005, he has released a string of EPs. The most recent memory was "Deconstructed Piano", a 3-inch CD-R issued by Hong Kong's Lona Records in 2006. Judging just by the title, I swore I could have guessed that it was a John Cage tribute album. But I digress. His latest release comes in the form of a free online album that is named "O". The entire ablum is available for download at Rain Music (the label is also responsible for bringing us the Japan electronic minimalist Cake on Cake). Listen for yourself.

"O" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Plunge 1
2. Fest:val
3. E:ne Kle:ne Nachm:ttagmus:k
4. Sunr:se
5. Organ:k
6. Bend:ng Shadow
7. Plunge 2
8. Ocean mot:on

You can download ALL the tracks at: Rain Music

藝人/樂團官方網頁: D:ve
藝人/樂團 Myspace: www.myspace.com/yixi

那些白色物體...

2007-01-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was dramatic. Today is ok. What's that white stuff at burnaby mountain you asked? That's 20 cm of snowfall! (most of it probably melted away in the sunshine this morning). And I think it's -16C outside with the windchill. OooKeee... I was off work last night and as usual I waited at the bus loop for the bus that normally comes every 8 minutes. I waited for an hour (silly enough...) in a lineup that eventually circled into an absolute tangled mess. I don't think the people know they are lining up at the right line or perhaps what they are lining up for. Anyhoo. It took me a total of 4 hours to get home from work. Today... much better.

MP3s for your listening pleasure again:

1. Lo-Fi-Fnk - "What's On My Mind"
2. The Radio Dept. - "The Worst Taste In Music (Extended)"
3. Swan Lake - "The Freedom"
4. Swan Lake - "All Fires"
5. Holy Fuck - "Safari" (live)
6. Cake on Cake - "My Melody"
7. Final Fantasy - "I'm Afraid of Japan"
8. Kama Aina - "Hotaru"
9. Cacoy - "Piracle Pa"
10. Bicycles - "Gotta Get Out"

Finally some canadian content! :P

加拿大樂團: My Dad Vs. Yours

2007-01-07T00:54:00.000-08:00

The familiar name My Dad Vs. Yours (oddly enough... some referred to them as My Dad) has been floating in the back of my mind for quite some time now, but it wasn't until now that I discover that they are indeed an instrumental (or post-rock, the operative words that I have been so accustomed to saying nowadays) band. Hailed from the capital of Canada, My Dad Vs. Yours' self-released sophomore album "After Winter Must Come Spring" was recorded in Montreal's legendary Hotel2Tengo studio.

"After Winter Must Come Spring" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Habla Paisano
2. Bellicose
3. The Harder We Work…
4. …The Behinder We Get
5. Tanz Mit Uns
6. No Farms No Food No Future
7. In My Arms We Shall Begin
8. Spinners

前瞻 '07

2007-01-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

As we look forward in 2007, here are some highlights you should not miss:

1. The Good, the Bad and the Queen
No. This is not the title of the next instalment of the People Mountain People Sea compilation. The Good, the Bad and the Queen combines the talent and experience of drummer Tony Allen (Fela Kuti), bassist Paul Simonon (Clash), guitarist Simon Tong (Verve) and Blur singer Damon Albarn. A lineup like that invites high expectations, but the first two singles, Herculean and Kingdom of Doom, are sublime. (The album is out Jan. 23.)

2. Acting the Part: Photography as Theatre at the Vancouver Art Gallery
Strike a pose: This comprehensive overview of the art of the staged photograph includes the work of Cindy Sherman, Lewis Carroll, Man Ray, Jeff Wall, Yasumasa Morimura and Wang Quingsong. Opens Feb. 3.

3. Blank is Beautiful: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi Klein
Also in March, Canada’s premier rabble-rouser will follow up No Logo, her bible for the planet’s anti-globalization movement, with a scathing critique of the international free market .

4. Do Make Say Think, Trans Am, Acid Mother's Temple @ Richard's on Richard (too bad not on the same date)
After a series of delays, Toronto's Do Make Say Think has finally decided to reschedule their long-awaited tour. They will (or at least scheduled to) be strolling through town on Mar. 5, after the release of their fifth full-length You, You're a History in Rust on the famed Constellation Records. Following closely is Washington, DC's post rock pioneer Trans Am, who will be appearing on stage on Apr. 24 supporting their latest Thrill Jockey release Sex Change. To top it all off, the latest incarnation of Japan's finest space/noise-rocker collective Acid Mother's Temple will be gracing our presence on May 9 to play us some tunes from their new album Have You Seen The Other Side Of The Sky?. I sure hope they can all make their scheduled appearance.

MP3s for your listening pleasure:

1. Trans Am - "Uninvited Guest"
2. Trans Am - "Outmoder"

Yippee 2007!

2007-01-02T00:32:00.000-08:00

Hope you had a good one in 2006. As you can see, the new year has given us some motivation to get off our couches and give this site a facelift of sort. We wish you a productive year ahead, and thank you again to those who have been so supportive over the year. Cheers everyone and see you in a bit.

And here are some of my music picks for 2006:

- The Yours "Abraham" Myspace
- Tizzy Bac "我想你會變成這樣都是我害的" Official Site
- Selfkill "雨停了之後" Official Site
- Lighthead - "No 3" Myspace
- Les Breastfeeders "Les matins de grands soirs" Official Site
- Swan Lake "Beast Moans" Myspace
- Hylozoists "La Fin Du Monde" Myspace

If you're interested, here's a roundup of almost all the "Best of" lists for 2006: Largeheartedboy

alrightee.

Taiwan: Post Rock on videos

2006-11-13T08:22:00.000-08:00

Click on video to see details.

and this is not post rock, but i thought i throw it up here...

Japan's: Envy

2006-10-13T22:40:00.000-07:00

Some of you would have already heard of this band from the song "I Chose Horses" on Mogwai's most recent full length "Mr. Beast". Envy is a Japanese atmospheric hardcore/metal/punk band. Their latest effort titled "Insomniac Dose" is released on Temporary Residency.

"Insomniac Dose" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Further Ahead of Warp
2. Shield of Selflessness
3. Scene
4. Crystallize
5. The Unknown Glow
6. Night In Winter
7. A Warm Room

Japan's: Yasushi Yoshida

2006-10-13T22:32:00.000-07:00

Yasushi Yoshida's debut "Secret Figure", released via Noble Japan. Full details here.

"Secret Figure" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Silent park
2. Parade for closure
3. Parade
4. Chair father
5. Octave of leaves
6. Dance piece
7. Remembrance in glass
8. Picture of three life
9. Family

Korea's: Denci Hinji

2006-10-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

Released in the Hermit Kingdom in 2001, Denci Hinji's "Day Is Far Too Long" is an inviting dream-pop/electronica album not to be missed.

Tracklist:

1. 치??
2. 흑??
3. 보??
4. Sad Song
5. 달??
6. 검??
7. 아스피린 소년
8. 구??
9. 통??
10. Marvelous Story
11. 가??
12. 오??
13. 누??
14. 해??
15. 잘??

*My apology for the song titles. I don't read Korean, and thus no translation is provided. If interested in purchasing the cd, head over to: Tube Music

V.A. Compilation: Lobo Three

2006-10-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

Released early this year by Taiwan's White Wabbit Records, this is the third instalment of the Lobo compilcation series. Like it's predecessors, Lobo Three is graced with stellar materials contributed by indie artists/bands from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, and Japan. Styles range from indie pop, electronica, garage, shoegazing, punk, to um... emo.

"Lobo Three (V.A.)" (2006) Tracklist:

Side A
1. Colorful - Two of the Who
2. Doodle - Runaway Train
3. Slow Burning Machine - I'm a Retard
4. 393B1 - The Ninja of Konoha (part)
5. Hindsight 20/20 - Eyes Contact
6. RICO - Moon Rock
7. Orange Grass - Artificial
8. Smol - Questions
9. Murmur - The Sorrow of Young Wanker
10. Diagonal - A Night in Mist
11. Denci Hinji - Aspirin Boy
12. cocoMu - Game Over

Side B
1. Indulge - The Two Lines of The Railroad
2. microcesmos - Flying Through The Cosmos
3. Ganache - The Old Man
4. Dolly's Pillbox - Bedtime Plus
5. Atombook - Melody on Mellow Day
6. Zibet - Swing Your Bodies
7. Yobbo - Flee
8. Nastyona - Cause You're My Mom
9. White Eyes - I Am Murmuring
10. BB Bomb - Punk Rock Girl
11. 12.3 - Narcissinm Beauty
12. Elf Fatima - 破浪

*Some of the above song titles are translation of actual titles.

Montreal's Shanghai Triad

2006-10-02T20:50:00.000-07:00

Montreal's trio Shanghai Triad. Classic!

Cyndi Seui (Thailand)

2006-09-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

Cyndi Seui aka Cesar B. de Guzman... an "Electronic Producer and Performer from Smallroom Music Label in Bangkok, Thailand... 5 years of intense werk life in Advertising music production, Music album, and his very own album.....Micro Bitz Life....Overall....Cyndi Seui is an imaginery faminent expressing her music in french and Japanese".

Check out her myspace for some samples. :)

News... and some not so new(s)

2006-09-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

~ Daman Albarn with the Chinese orchestra

ok ok... here's some newsbites to keep you happy:

> Daman Albarn (Gorillaz/Blur) is writing music for Chinese stage production "Monkey: Journey to the West" (directed by Chen Shi-Zheng). Albarn will make his live debut on Oct 26 in London, UK. (courtesy NME)

> Arab Strap announced break up... T.T (courtesy Pitchfork)

> Upcoming local concert highlights:
+ Mojave 3
+ Final Fantasy
+ Phoenix
+ Hylozoists
+ DJ Krush
+ Asobi Seksu
+ Andrew Bird & Cass McCombs
+ Pink Mountaintops
+ Ladytron ... Yo La Tengo ... Sufjan Stevens (all on same date)
+ Kasabian + Mew
+ New Pronographers
+ Bonnie Prince Billy
+ The Album Leaf
+ Decemberists
+ Bloc Party
+ ...and you will know us by the Trail of Dead
(check pollstar for dates)

bye for now...

uhm...

2006-08-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

Something is a bit wonky with my computer... check out this guy while I'm gone for a bit.

Documentary: Kid Koala

2006-08-17T19:05:00.000-07:00

A lovely little doc about DJ/turntablist Mr. Eric San aka Kid Koala, followed by a video of "Fender Bender" off of his 2000 Ninja Tune debut "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome".

"Kid Koala - 7 Minute Documentary" courtesy sadr

"Fender Bender" video courtesy sadr

Official site: Kid Koala (Currently on tour across North America and will be playing Vancouver on Nov 5!)

中國樂團: FM3 + 竇唯

2006-08-06T20:04:00.000-07:00

- Christiaan Virant and Zhang Jian of FM3

繼去年發行而驚動一時的 "Buddha Machine", 北京二人電子組合 FM3 今回延續他們的神化氣色並與同樣熱衷於實驗音樂的竇唯再次合作制成出一張名為 "后觀音" 的大碟. 這次是兩個音樂單位繼 2004年 "镜花缘记" 的再一次合作. "后觀音" 是由香港的 Lona Records 發行.

在多倫多的朋友,請留意 FM3 將會在9月30日於一個名為 "Night Swim" 的活動中與 Windy & Carl, Keith Whitman, Polmo Polpo 同臺演出. 詳情: Brainwashed.com

"后觀音" (2006) Tracklist:

2. 烏
5. 無
9. 吾
11. 悟

以下參考:

- FM3 Buddha Machine: FM3 interview with Boomkat
- 后觀音: Lona Records CD description
- FM3官方網頁
- 竇唯官方網頁

and i'll leave you with a video from "后觀音"...

- courtesy Lona Records

美國樂團: The Innocence Mission

2006-07-28T22:30:00.000-07:00

- Karen Peris of The Innocence Mission

一隊出道已久的組合. 他們 1999 的大碟 Birds of My Neighborhood 在月前得到 Badman Records 廠牌重新灌錄. 感覺格外清新. 喜歡 The Sundays, This Mortal Coil, 10,000 Maniacs, 或 Belle & Sebastian 的朋友請不要錯過.

"Birds of My Neighborhood (Re-mastered)" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Where Does The Time Go?
2. Snow
3. Follow Me
4. The Lakes Of Canada
5. You Are The Light
6. Birdless
7. I Haven't Seen This Day Before
8. She May Turn Around
9. I Was In The Air
10. July
11. Going Away
12. Green Grass, Red Tree

樂隊官方網頁: The Innocence Mission

英國樂團: Mojave 3

2006-07-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

隨著 Mojave 3 新唱片 Puzzles Like You 的誕生,最近去了樂團的網頁討論區驚喜地發現有不少華人 Fans 以中文留言. 看得頗為有趣. Here's the jist:

我是个中国女孩,疯狂喜欢莫哈纬3!!
I am a chinese girl,I love mojave3 deeply & crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!

my email:westlifebryan2004@hotmail.com
I want be everyone's friend!
(my english is a little poor)

噢噢噢
好兴奋～
我也超喜欢Ｍ３啊
这里的中国fan究竟有多少啊
是中国的回个声吧

I live and study in China. I haven't met a single person in the city where I live who loves dream pop/shoegaze. That's kinda weird when you see that the population of the place where I live is nearly 9 Million, if I am not mistaken. Most of the Chinese people I've met here( that includes about 95%) are all into mainstream pop or hip-hop. Surprisingly, I have come to know quite a few number of guys who love Post-Rock. That includes Mogwai, Explosions in the Sky, Do Make Say Think and the like.

China has a huge underground music scene with bands that have influences ranging from Joy Division, Bauhaus to Sex Pistols and even some Emo.

I miss Slowdive.

哈我也愛mojave3

馬來西亞小歌迷^^

I'm in Shanghai:)

In fact ,there're many people love shoegaze and dream pop music in my city:)

I had a shoegaze band 2 years ago.

I miss Slowdive,too.

hihi
I am a chinese girl too but from Hong Kong
nice to meet you
it's hard to buy M3's Album in mainland China
I suggest you buy them in Hong Kong

"Puzzles Like You" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Truck Driving Man
2. Puzzles Like You
3. Breaking The Ice
4. Running With Your Eyes Closed
5. Most Days
6. Big Star Baby
7. Ghost Ship Waiting
8. Kill The Lights
9. You Said It Before
10. To Hold Your Tiny Toes
11. Just a Boy
12. The Mutineer

樂隊官方網頁: Mojave 3 (North American tour dates announced!)

記錄片: Kokoyakyu: High School Baseball

2006-07-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

一部由 Kenneth Eng 執導,講述兩隊強弱懸殊的日本中學棒球隊,在四千多隊日本中學棒球隊中,競逐出線一年一度在大阪舉行的全國「甲子園」(Koshien) 棒球決賽. 有血,有汗,有淚.

官方網頁: PBS Point of View + 高校野球 Kokoakyu: High School Baseball

日本樂團: YMCK

2006-07-03T22:55:00.000-07:00

Haha! 今天介紹的是一隊相當不尋常的日本 electro-pop 樂隊. 她們的曲風與其他的日本電子音樂單位 (Cornelius, DJ Krush, Fantastic Plastic Machines, 甚至 Pizzicato 5, 等等) 有甚大的區別. YMCK 的音樂靈感往往像是來自一些已停產多年的"任天堂"電動遊戲. :)

據說她們的現場表現值得一看. YMCK 將於7月29日在"野台開唱"演出. 今年野台開唱的 Line-up 包括: Super Furry Animals, 相川七瀨, Mondialito, Caroline, 林一峰, Advantage Lucy, Tizzy Bac, Selfkill, 薄荷葉, 濁水溪公社, etc. (good stuff!)

"Family Music" (2005) Tracklist:

1. Fanfare
2. Magical 8bit Tour
3. Pastel Colored Candy
4. Darling
5. POW * POW
6. Interlude
7. SOCOPOGOGO(YMCK Version)
8. Synchronicitydemo
9. Tetrominon - From Russia with Blocks
10. Does John Coltrane Dream of a Merry-go-round?
11. Yellow, Magenta, Cyan and Black (Theme from YMCK)
12. Your Quest is Over

樂隊官方網頁: YMCK

台灣樂團: 橙草

2006-07-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

「 ... 聽覺是主觀的。愛聽音樂的人，各自在主觀的藩籬裡，低迴徜徉，探索邊界，或與同好相濡以沫。

人生的際遇卻比這複雜的多。那些值得雀躍的轉折，亟欲忘卻的傷痕，以及看似平淡卻伏流洶湧的每分鐘，交相沉積在回憶的行囊裡，與一句歌詞或幾枚音符暗通款曲。一旦正面撞上當下的某個場景或某種情緒，旋律便泉湧而出，在腦海裡狂奔繞圈。

也許是因為這樣，初聞橙草的音樂，很多人難以招架。說不上來是哪個和弦或哪段節奏的觸動，胸口開始澎湃，鼻頭莫名發酸。上癮之後反覆聆聽，諸般感動同樣沉澱成記憶的一部份，前方的漫漫歲月遂得到新的配樂相伴。

不管是鏗鏘的快板，還是深邃的中慢板，這三位樂手總能適切演繹搖滾樂最引人入勝的特質：直率與律動。對我來說，敘述橙草「不是」什麼，要比申說橙草「像」什麼來的容易：播放這張專輯，聽不到起伏貧乏的單調循環，也沒有投機媚俗的鼓點佈局，更不用忍受俗不可耐的吉他編曲。

〈奔跑舞曲〉有都會邊陲的速度感，〈And Go〉漂蕩黃昏巷弄的舒緩與惆悵，〈Rainbow 4AM〉是年少思緒的跳躍剪轉載自: 默契音樂 Silent Agreement

樂隊官方網頁影，〈Silvery〉帶我們回溯吉他搖滾穿國越界的美好時光，而〈沒說的話〉淡然傾訴咫尺天涯的無奈。旅程終了，拼貼路上信手拈來的照片，只見蒙塵的台北街道，彷彿有光，從磚牆瓦礫柏油間隙當中伸展，輕敲耳膜，在心底灑成一片。

如果你也是聽覺回憶的動物，這張專輯應該屬於你。 ... 」

"Rainbow 4AM" (2006) Tracklist:

1. 奔跑舞曲
2. And Go
3. Rainbow 4 AM
4. Silvery
5. 沒說的話

轉載自: 小白兔 White Wabbit Records

樂隊官方網頁: 橙草 Orange Grass

香港樂團: 粉紅A

2006-06-23T21:28:00.000-07:00

「 ... 粉紅A2006年6月發表最新專輯"她來了"承接首張同名大碟的電子流行元素, 加入潮濕的後崩結他成份, 發酵三年, 孕育出一次耐人尋味的經歷. "她來了"帶你從一片草原, 進入石屎森林, 穿過深啡色的深谷, 再飛上太空. ... 」

她來了 (2006) Tracklist:

1. 她來了
2. 愛情 I Know
3. 鞭鞭鞭
4. 今日特別長
5. 命帶桃花
6. 燒
7. 再見
8. 深啡色
9. 一切來得太快
10. 請坐

轉載自: Monitor Records

樂隊官方網頁: 粉紅A

書籍: Foreign Babes in Beijing

2006-06-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

Rachel DeWoskin 2005 的作品 "Foreign Babes in Beijing" (洋妞在北京). 很喜歡它的封面. 是一本講述作者在89民運隨後在北京當上京劇花旦的故事. 現在正期望 Alice Wu 根據此書所編導的電影.

本地 Band Sound: Embryos

2006-05-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

Show #1
日期: 6月3號 (星期六)
時間: 2pm
地點: Crystal Mall

Show #2
日期: 6月3號 (星期六)
時間: 7:30-9pm
地點: Richmond Night Market

For more details, please visit: Embryos

蘇格蘭組合: Boards of Canada

2006-05-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

來自蘇格蘭的電音組合 Boards of Canada 將於6月5日透過 Warp Records 發行新 EP "Trans Canada Highway". 所指的「加拿大橫貫公路」其實是本人以及許多加拿大人上班上學的必經之路. 往內陸進發,車外景色不知不覺從平平無奇的小市鎮變成壯觀純潔的自然景象. 多麼感慨...

Trans Canada Highway EP (2006) Tracklist:

1. Dayvan Cowboy (Video)
2. Left Side Drive
3. Heard from Telegraph Lines
4. Skyliner
5. Under the Coke Sign
6. Dayvan Cowboy [Odd Nosdam Remix]

樂隊官方網頁: Boards of Canada

溫哥華/香港樂團: 壞碑唇

2006-05-26T23:32:00.000-07:00

「 ...「搞三搞四」是壞碑唇繼2004年的「三姑六婆」及去年的「summer」單曲後第四張錄音室專輯,繼續由高眺、高尚又高傲的Yvonne擔當女主音,音樂都是由常常搞笑的電子怪傑Chris製作。但今次就加入了無賴、爛泥填詞人李峻一教你如何「搞三搞四」。今次重有一大班豬朋狗友一齊「搞三搞四」，有Seasons lee, the pancakes, 大頭佛等。

音樂方面都是以電子為依，和以往不同的地方就是加入了大量真樂器，與電子聲響互相穿插於bossa nova、 jazznova、trip-hop、new wave、drum & bass、80s retro，使人chill-out於動人心弦的，又句句鼎心鼎肺的音樂中。... 」

「搞三搞四」(2006) Tracklist:

1. 搞三
2. 慾海慈航
3. 少奶奶
4. short but sweet
5. 失蹤媽媽
6. 十四青春遁走
7. 飲杯茶，食個......
8. 保守秘密
9. 秋日下午的肢體語言
10. 阿二靚湯
11. 搞四
12. 可以去邊?

轉載自: 默契音樂 Silent Agreement

樂隊官方網頁: 壞碑唇 Vibration

台灣樂團: 12.3

2006-05-15T20:29:00.000-07:00

- Twelvepoint3

1. 屎脫
2. 小眼鳥
3. 前進流社會 - (上流美)
4. 星空歌
5. 彩虹的聲音
6. See u in the next life - 來生緣
7. 暖春
8. 笑得合不攏嘴

轉載自: Rockacola

樂隊官方網頁: http://twelvepoint3.blogspot.com

台灣樂團: Selfkill

2006-05-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

- Selfkill

「 ... 成軍四年，selfkill在台灣樂團圈一直是個安靜深沈的存在，往往連團名都沒聽過，卻在大大小小的表演場合驚鴻一瞥地發現他們－－正認真地製造著大塊吉他音牆。相較於音樂上的氣魄，他們私底下總是不太多話、青澀害羞。

令人不可思議的是，這樣沈默的selfkill，在音樂上展現同類型樂團難得一見的沈穩風範，雙吉他各自帶著獨特的音色奔馳，默契十足地鋪陳豐富旋律，高低起伏的音壓竄流耳畔，爽朗的鼓擊帶著令人振奮的彈跳力道，情緒從不流於過度鋪陳。

自從甜梅號、Explosions in the Sky、Mogwai走紅，後搖滾／吉他交響曲式漸漸受到聽眾喜愛，selfkill在這樣的風潮中，仍然不急不徐按著自己的步調前進，他們沒有強大的企圖心，也不在乎被類型化的標籤拘束。利用課餘時間，以有限的器材完成專輯的錄音混音，樸質不加修飾的音色有一份自在與安穩。

以充滿空間感的「Atonia」開場，前三曲抑鬱窒悶的聲音質感，像夏季雨夜特有的潮躁；第四首歌，直接、乾烈的聲音，彷彿突然抓起望遠鏡頭把遠方的景物硬塞到眼前，在專輯的中段突然安插這樣迴異編曲音色，實為非常有意思的轉折。；「太空號列車」的人聲恰如其分的展現了「人聲」作為一項樂器的角色。在「媽媽我考試考100分」中，轉為絕望的吶喊。

selfkill的初試啼聲之作，穩健地展現了獨特的協調性和旋律性。雨停了之後？問號之中充滿期待。 ... 」

「雨停了之後」(2006) Tracklist:

1. Atonia
2. Boiled Dream
3. Cake on Body
4. 小人國暴君
5. 遊樂園
6. roller-coaster rock
7. 太空號列車
8. 媽媽我考試考100分
9. 銀次在洗臉前陷入沉思

轉載自: White Wabbit Records

樂隊官方網頁: Selfkill

紐約樂團: The Hong Kong

2006-05-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

The Hong Kong 是一隊來自紐約的五人 Alternative/Pop Punk 樂團. 活躍於當地相當受歡迎的音樂會所, The Hong Kong 更曾與巨星級樂團 Luna 以及 The Raveonettes 同臺演出. 樂團曲風帶不小 Ramones, Jesus and Mary Chain, 及 My Bloody Valentine 的影子. 以下試聽. 慢用.

"Rock the Faces" (2003) tracklist:

1. Mazerati
2. Galaxies
3. Birds
4. Rock The Faces
5. Super Collider
6. Disappear
7. All That Empty Space
8. It's On

* * * * * * *

- Video of new song "Tongue-Tied" featuring Dean Wareham of Luna/Galaxie 500

樂隊官方網頁: The Hong Kong (more mp3 downloads)

May is Asian Heritage Month

2006-05-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

今個月是溫哥華一年一度的亞洲文化月. 不防看看你可參與一些什麼相關的活動: ExplorAsian 2006 Schedule

For more info, visit ExplorAsian.org

The Wonders of YouTube

2006-05-03T23:17:00.000-07:00

- "Envy" video feat. music by Elf Fatima courtesy IZK

- "Better" video by Audiotraffic courtesy teamblazed

- "Biological" video feat. False Alarm courtesy ahling1210

- "Disco Punk" video feat. Chasing Sparrow courtesy vanlo

- "沒自由的狗" video feat. 拾豆豆 courtesy garlico

- 熊寶貝和薄荷葉的小倩合唱椎名林檎的歌 courtesy pbear6150

- 陳綺貞 @ Macau courtesy leungkoochi

- "Love Song On The Radio" feat. Johnny Hi-Fi courtesy etubruce

- "My Sea" video feat. Sodagreen courtesy floralee

- "來不及" video feat. 陳珊妮　 courtesy huangjingjie

美國樂團: Dinosaur Jr.

2006-04-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

- stage rig of Dinosaur Jr's J. Mascis (courtesy: GuitarGeek)

為了添置一些新樂器,小弟過去幾個星期不停地在網上網下尋找心宜的奇異珍品. 當瀏覽到 GuitarGeek 的時候,發現九十年代美國獨立音樂先驅 Dinosaur Jr. (a la Sonic Youth, Pavement) 的 setup 尤其 off-the-chart 古怪.

"You're Living All Over Me" (2005) Tracklist:

1. Little Fury Things
2. Kracked
3. Sludgefeast
4. Lung
5. Raisans
6. Tarpit
7. In a Jar
8. Lose
9. Poledo
10. Just Like Heaven

樂團官方網站: Dinosaur Jr.

溫哥華歌手: Circlesquare

2006-04-20T19:42:00.000-07:00

各位久等了. 今天介紹的是溫哥華導演 Bienvenido Cruz 為 Circlesquare (aka Jeremy Shaw) 所制作的 "Fight Sound Part 1" music video. 請!

收看: "Fight Sound Part 1" video

下載: "Fight Sound Part 1" mp3

台灣樂團: 草莓救星

2006-04-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

剛過去3月25日那天是草莓救星近兩年來的首次公開演出. 復出首演中,玩的全都是新歌. 以下是一位樂迷對樂團舊唱片「太陽系」的評論.

「 ... 草莓救星來自台中，1998 年組成。成員包括：腊筆 ( 主唱 )、啟泰 ( 結他 )、ARNY ( 結他 )、昱人 ( 鼓 )、 DJ Tom (Turn Table 與聲音效果) 及 Tony ( 低音 )。

草莓救星是台灣獨立樂團公認寫歌超慢的樂隊 ( 他們自己也如此認為 )。初出道時創作的「自在」，一唱便唱了差不多四五年，可他們仍樂此不疲。經過多次現場表演後，2001年草莓救星正式開始灌錄其處女專輯「太陽系」，期間樂隊原來的低音手兼團長 Du Du 要去當大頭兵，其位置便由專輯監製 Tony 頂上，正式成為草莓成員。

草莓救星不但自嘲寫歌超慢，就連錄音都要慢工出細貨。團員們先在 Band 房商量及排練，精雕細琢好歌曲的起承轉合，怎樣唱怎樣彈，待一切採排好後才進錄音室錄音。專輯整個製作過程花了約 1年時間。直至去年 12 月終能順利推出。專輯合共有 8 首曲目，不過當中有3首組成了 Bad Dream 三部曲。因此，嚴格來說，只有 6 首歌。當然，「自在」也包括在內。

草莓救星的主唱腊筆擁有一把很少女的聲線。從她口中唱出「自在」那有關女性「姨媽到」的歌詞，實在非常匹配：「我不自在，這種感覺你們男人怎麼會明白？」哈，我當然不明白，但每次聽著，也不禁發出會心微笑；歌曲後段那些神來之筆的海浪聲效，更是抵死！

草莓救星也被樂評歸納為 Post-Rock 音樂類別。專輯內的開場純音樂「尖嘴」正有著從寧靜漸漸伸延至爆炸性，再回歸寧靜的後搖滾編曲格局，惟他們在電結他處理上比一般 Post-Rock 更花心思，帶點英倫 Noise-Pop 味道。「香煙」與 Bad Dream 三部曲都是甚具架勢的 Epic Ballad，尤其後者合共長達 15 多分鐘，卻前後鋪排層次分明，由緊湊搖滾轉折至最後的 Acoustic 曲式，過程一氣呵成，凸顯成員之間的合拍無間。實在很難想像一隊樂隊的處女作，已有如此成熟的大將表現。

點題作「太陽系」的編曲更是完美無暇。以混沌初開的電子音效作前奏，引入簡潔的電結他彈奏，全曲只用上 2 個和弦，卻能夠從簡單中表達深遠意境。至小提琴與手風琴一出，更有煽情傷感之效。這是一首無懈可擊的 Sad-Core 作品。完場曲「寂寞小公路」回歸平和的古典民謠曲調，又是另一種完美。草莓救星的「太陽系」，處處充滿著刻意經營的雕琢工匠氣息，卻又無從挑剔。如果 10 分是滿分，我會給滿分；如果五粒星是滿分，我會給五粒星。完美得可怕。

時間像地球自轉般不斷打圈，流逝，如果地球有一面鏡子，它看見自己在原地打轉，會有何感受？
地球有自己的軌跡，人類有自己的生活規律。放眼宇宙，整個太陽系，其實我們跟蜜蜂螻蟻差別不大，一樣的渺小。

去年在台北聖界 Live House 看過台中樂隊草莓救星的現場演出，現在回想，我的印象卻模糊了。因為那次我是為美國後搖滾樂隊 Explosions In The Sky 而去，暖場表演的草莓救星只是額外點綴。我只模糊記得他們那天唱了 Bad Dream 三部曲。那「自在」、「寂寞小公路」與「太陽系」呢？

記不起來了。其實我真的很想記起，那麼我跟草莓救星的關係，就可以早一點開始，回憶也可以長一點。

原來真有一個地方叫寂寞小公路，在台中的，草莓救星的主唱腊筆說。「真的有那個地方喔。對我來說充滿回憶，意義重大。前面的蟲鳴、風聲跟吉他、 Vocal ，也是到寂寞小公路同步收音。」我也很想親身去看看，雖然那裡沒有任何我的回憶，但，可以由現在開始擁有啊。

由現在開始，擁有並珍惜屬於我的回憶。「閉上我的眼睛，聲音愈來愈清晰。不知道是怎麼開始，不想要裝做不在意。讓我們一起製造一個太陽系，循著它走自己的軌跡。」地球在自轉中，同時也在公轉，循著太陽公轉，而非只是原地踏步。

我也想擁有一個屬於自己的太陽系，然後像地球一樣繞著它走，一步一步踏著，輕輕的似乎很堅強。漸漸地，一切不再那麼茫然。從無垠宇宙中，看見我自己，就在這裡，充滿意義地。 ... 」

"太陽系" (2002) Tracklist:

1. 尖嘴
2. 自在
3. Cigarette
4. Bad Dream
5. Bad Dream 2
6. Bad Dream
7. 太阳系
8. 寂寞公路

轉載自: SoulzZ

樂團官方網站: 草莓救星

德日樂團: Guitar

2006-04-01T08:10:00.000-08:00

- Michael Lückner + Ayako Akashiba

"Tokyo" (2006) tracklist:

1. Sunday Afternoon At Tamagawa River
2. Naoki
3. Red & White
4. Tokyo Memory
5. Ayako
6. Wash Me Away
7. Akiko
8. Sakura Coming
9. Maki

樂隊官方網頁: Guitar

Why Moz don't have time for Canada?

2006-03-30T18:33:00.000-08:00

為什麼 Morrissey 對加拿大歌迷這麼冷酷無情呢?

參考 1: NME article
參考 2: National Post Editorial

香港樂團: 儉德大廈

2006-03-20T17:30:00.000-08:00

- 328-342A Nathan Road, Kowloon

「 ... 儉德大廈，位處348 Disco對面。

那邊廂是狂亂起舞的慾望集結地，這邊廂的儉德大廈某單位，他們日出而息，日入而作，每天完事於白紗窗簾透射出晨光的一剎，就像是歇息於佈滿濃霧的清晨之中。

埋首於大廈裡，想像著森林和原野的童話世界，藏身於故事裡的夢幻，各自在森林的角落呼吸著冰冷的死亡空氣，細聽著大廈傳來的回音。

因此，他們為樂隊命名為【儉德大廈】。

不潮不爆不喪，走在深沉的聲音迴廊，聆聽無言靜夜肌膚相觸的性感纏綿 ... 內歛、哀愁、優雅、私密，如曠野的閃電，如越過森林的風；日與夜不同時份，帶來感覺不一樣的存在瞬間。

他們創作的音樂伸延出只此一家的完整藝術形態──魔幻的畫作、童畫般的歌名、低迴的氛圍，及精緻的封套設計。香港的另類音樂向來缺乏史記，但儉德大廈所成就的，絕對是本土音樂史一頁傳奇 ... 」

儉德大廈首張專輯《在森林和原野》(2006) Tracklist：

1. 湖邊的鹿
2. 戀愛中的蝸牛
3. 乾涸的池塘
4. 冰湖上的獸
5. 沼澤裡的斧頭
6. 善良的狼
7. 磨破的舞鞋
8. 發光的羽毛
9. 被騙的蝙蝠
10. 兔子寫的曲
11. 霧中的船

轉載自: MCB Forum

樂隊官方網頁: 儉德大廈

她來自波多黎各: Arturo En El Barco

2006-03-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

Arturo En El Barco (aka Angélica Negrón) 是一位喜歡以鋼琴與 Ondes Martenot 寫作的電音奇女子.

"Music for Students and their Friends" (2005) Tracklist:

1. Beth Dorris
2. Candy Tucker
3. Kyle Parker
4. Raymond Dotson
5. Lisa Mattes
6. Barbara Kelm
7. Candy Tucker (i am robot and proud remix)
8. Candy Tucker (phasmid remix)
9. Hello Beth (balún remix)
10. Bye candy (.tape. remix)
11. Beth dorris (text adventure remix)

樂隊官方網頁: Arturo En El Barco

香港組合: SnoBlind (雪瞎)

2006-03-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

Snoblind 是一隊由 Vincent & Regina 二人所組成的香港電子音樂單位 (think: trip hop, trance, glitch, etc.). 以下是 Snoblind 日前在香港 Tom Lee 的演出.

官方網頁: Snoblind

台灣樂團: 8mm sky 八厘米天空

2006-02-24T22:18:00.000-08:00

台灣最優美與低調並陳的獨立搖滾樂團。

當你抬頭望向遙遠的天際，你知道天空很大、太陽很高，站在遼闊的草地上冥想自己與地球圓周間的距離—如同下著雨的天空，伸出手掌感覺到它的潮溼與溫度。雖然天空依舊是遙不可及，可是你卻能撫摸到到它情緒。不到一公分的微小細膩，可是呼吸到的卻是大片藍天的氧。

8mm Sky，形容他們的音樂～就像"夏天的午後突然打雷"吧！從早期的Walking in the sun, song 1, the Sound Before Christmas到最近的新歌讓人由yo la tengo,18th dye,及天空爆炸的影像聯想，吉他爆炸減少了！取而代之的是愈來愈內斂的音符堆疊。2002年4月成軍，除了在聖界、地社外，也在夏夏叫、噗雌頌、野台、春天吶喊等活動參與演出，同年十一月，受邀擔任Explosions in the sky暖場團。2005年受邀擔任múm暖場團。

正式發表的the sound before Christmas和Daylite running necessary兩首歌曲，分別收入在蘿蔔一號(WWR,2003) 和電、棒、燙(Avex,2004) 之中；2002年十二月發行現場表演（天空爆炸暖場）VCD限量50張，現已絕版。

新專輯 "Finders Keepers" (2006) Tracklist:

1. we don't even shake hands
2. the Painter
3. finders keepers
4. something upstairs & something behind
5. so, let's go
6. her november diary
7. eli in tv
8. what if next autumn
9. check the other side
10. rocket no.7

轉載自: Silent Agreement 默契音樂

樂隊官方網頁: 8mm sky 八厘米天空

Centre A: China Trade

2006-02-24T19:55:00.000-08:00

Exhibition Date: March 4 - April 8, 2006

Chen Chieh-jen
Paul Mathieu
Song Dong
Sui Jianguo
Xing Danwen
Wang Tiande
Yang Fudong

Traveling to exhibitions in foreign countries and selling their work on a booming international market, Chinese contemporary artists are ideally positioned to observe the global impact of China’s economic revolution. At the same time, more and more international artists are making and showing work in China.

The artists in this exhibition use the tools of manufacturing and mass media to make art works that offer poetic reflections and humorous comments on our rapidly changing world. They remind us that behind the business and political headlines lies an economy of cultural exchange, from cooking to clothing to cell phone communication, that marks the personal, human side of globalisation, transforming the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

For more info, visit Centre A

雙響炮: March 4 + 11

2006-02-21T20:49:00.000-08:00

- Windfall

第一場
日期: 2006 年 3 月 4 日 (Sat)
時間: 6:00-10:00pm
地點: Good Luck Cabaret, 147 E Pender Street, Vancouver
費用: $10
演出者: Eigen, Abandoned Projekt, Larme, and Windfall

* * * * * * * *

- Embryos

第二場
日期: 2006 年 3 月 11 日 (Sat)
時間: 6:00-10:00pm
地點: Good Luck Cabaret, 147 E Pender Street, Vancouver
費用: $10
演出者: Embryos, Balls, Scar'let Ash, Traces of Nuts, and Flat Tire Pursuit

For more info, contact Nelson at 604-783-0303 or tinnelson@hotmail.com

京劇配樂: Stephin Merritt

2006-02-19T19:30:00.000-08:00

喜歡 Magnetic Fields 的朋友,相信也不會過錯 Stephin Merritt 將在3月14日發行的 "Showtunes". 這一張唱片將收錄 Stephin Merritt 為華裔導演 Chen Shi-Zheng 手下三部以「京劇」為元素的舞臺劇 [“Orphan of Zhao” (2003), “Peach Blossom Fan” (2004), “My Life as a Fairy Tale” (2005)] 所提供的配樂.

"Showtunes" (2006) Tracklist:

1. Theme From The Orphan Of Zhao
2. At Madam Plum's
3. Top And The Ball, The
4. What A Fucking Lovely Day
5. Auntie Toothache
6. It's Hard To Be The Emperor
7. Sounds Expensive
8. Red Shoes, The
9. Fan Dance Cha-Cha
10. Little Maiden Of The Sea, The
11. Ukulele Me!
12. Train Song
13. Little Hebrew Girl, The
14. Shall We Sing A Duet?
15. Song Of The Humble Serf, The
16. Collar And The Garter, The
17. Shall We Sing A Duet? Reprise
18. Sorry Wrong Show
19. Storks, The
20. In The Spring, When I Was Young
21. Ugly Little Duck, The
22. And He Would Say
23. World Is Not Made Of Flowers, The
24. Behold The Lowly Centipede
25. In China, Said The Moon....
26. Hail! Son Of Heaven

* * * * * * * *

Some earlier Stephin Merritt audio streams (courtesy It's Meaningless):

- Born on a Train
- The Dreaming Moon

For more info, visit Nonesuch Records

溫哥華樂團: Precious Fathers

2006-02-12T22:42:00.000-08:00

原本沒有介紹這隊本地 Post Rock 樂團的念頭,但因網友快樂牛郎最近問起,覺得有必要在這裡向各位作一個簡單的介紹及推薦.

記得自己第一次是在2004年尾在電臺聽到 Precious Fathers 的作品,一聽之下便喜歡上他們那節奏輕快旋律交錯的曲調. 自從去年看見他們為 Album Leaf 暖場,閣下便對他們的現場演出留下深刻的印像. 事實上, Precious Fathers 來頭真的不小. 四位成員來自多隊知名本地樂團例如: Destroyer, Loscil, The Battles, Sparrow, & Pink Mountaintops. 絕對值得一聽.

"Precious Fathers" (2005) Tracklist:

1. Prarie Train
2. Upset Frankie-Hustle
3. Gallant Foot
4. Past It Pastures
5. Snowshoes
6. Ant and the Pea
7. Red Norvo
8. Get All The Ribbons and Bring Them Back Here
9. Purple Mint

樂隊官方網頁: Precious Fathers (Currently on tour with Mice Parade)

挪威樂團: Serena Maneesh

2006-02-04T19:06:00.000-08:00

- Serena Maneesh

hm... 在3月24日那天,我將會有兩個選擇. 一,我可以花 C$39.50 + Tax 去看 Stuart Murdoch 與 Belle & Sebastian 一行十多人在 Commodore Ballroom 演出. 二,我可以花 C$13 + Tax 去 Richard's on Richard 看這隊來自挪威的 Shoegazing 樂團 Serena Maneesh. 有點不知所措... 我看這是時侯練習我的分身術 lor.

"Serena Maneesh" (2005) Tracklist:

1. Drain Cosmetics
2. Selina' s Melodie Fountain
3. Un-Deux
4. Candlelighted
5. Beehiver II
6. Her Name Is Suicide
7. Sapphire Eyes
8. Don't Come Down Here
9. Chorale Lick
10. Simplicity
11. Your Blood In Mine

MP3 samples courtesy - Buddyhead

樂團官方網頁: Serena Maneesh

上海樂團: 冷酷仙境

2006-02-04T00:57:00.000-08:00

周圣安(大提琴), 李佳(鼓/打击乐), 林笛(主唱/键盘/琵琶), 宋建丰(吉他), 苏勇(贝斯)

最近奇怪地從一套名為 China Rises 的 CBC 記錄片中得知這隊以中西合壁音樂元素見青的上海樂團. 一聽到主音林笛用手上琵琶奏出的旋律便認定他們是我下一個要研究的目標. 到目前為止,冷酷仙境已分別在默契及風潮唱片發行過四張專輯. 最新一張於2005年由半度音樂出版發行.

「魔境十日」(2005) Tracklist:

1. 诱惑之舞
2. 忏悔日
3. 福地
4. 手心里绝望的花
5. 绿草原深处的黄昏
6. 奴隶们
7. 摹仿剧场
8. 洪水
9. 守护
10. 循回

樂隊官方網頁: 冷酷仙境

經典 Post Rock 後搖

2006-02-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

認識我的網友,大概也會察覺得到小弟是一個嚴重到無可救藥的 Post Rock 迷. 最近無聊,藉此向各位介紹一些心頭好.

Young Team - Mogwai (...love Come On Die Young & Ten Rapid equally as much)

What Fun Life Was - Bedhead

Those Who Tell the Truth... - Explosion in the Sky

Finally We Are No One - Mum

Ágætis Byrjun - Sigur Rós

Slow Riot for Zero Kanada - Godspeed! You Black Emperor

Winter Hymn Country Hymn Secret Hymn - Do Make Say Think

He Has Left Us Alone But Shafts of Light Sometimes Grace the Corners of Our Rooms -Silver Mount Zion (phew...what a name!)

Sea and Bells - Rachel's

Crashes to Light, Minutes to Its Fall - Cul de Sac

Dots and Loops - Stereolab (a band so versatile...)

E Luxo So - Labradford

Spiderland - Slint

TNT - Tortoise

Tired Sounds of Stars of the Lid - Stars of the Lid

Liberation - Trans Am

The For Carnation - The For Carnation

Aerial M - Aerial M

Telegraphs in Negative/Mouths Trapped in Static - Set Fire to Flames (consists of members of Godspeed!, Fly Pan Am, and Hangedup)

The Blue Notebooks - Max Richter

A History of Sport Fishing - Thee More Shadows

Restos de un Incendio - Migala

Happy Year of the Dog!

2006-01-29T19:38:00.000-08:00

農曆新年快樂!!!

春季演唱會一覽

2006-01-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

- Arab Strap

溫哥華雨下不停的情境早已是見慣見熟. 在過去數十多日,此情更甚. 人人只好躲在室內避開烏雲. 但相信在短期的未來,我們會找到一個留在室內的更佳原因. 因為以下多隊知名樂團將在春季時分拜訪溫哥華:

- Jeff Tweedy (Jan 31)
- Rogue Wave (Feb 25)
- Supergrass (Feb 26)
- Animal Collective (March 2)
- Matt Pond PA, Youth Group (March 2)
- Akron/Family (March 4)
- Stereolab (March 7)
- Low (March 8)
- Isobel Campbell (March 10)
- Belle & Sebastian (March 24)
- Art Brut (March 24)
- Beth Orton (March 29)
- Arab Strap (March 29)
- Pink Mountaintops (April 5)

For more info, check with PollStar

Just Announced: SFUTA + CSU Band Show

2006-01-22T11:07:00.000-08:00

SFUTA + CSU 華賢社 Presents:
Static Explosion Band Show

日期: 2006 年 1 月 27 日
時間: 7:00-11:00pm
地點: Tom Lee Concert Hall, 929 Granville Street, Vancouver
費用: MEMBER $10; NON-MEMBER $12

For more info, see 活動網頁

P.S. Remember to vote tomorrow. :)

加國樂團: Destroyalldreamers

2006-01-18T22:49:00.000-08:00

- Michèle Martin (bass), Shaun Doré (drums), Eric Quach (guitar), Mathieu Grisé (guitar)

碰上這隊來自 Montreal 的四人 Post-Rock/Shoegazer 樂團其實是純屬巧合. 樂隊在 2004 年年尾在 Where Are My Records 旗下發表了首張專輯 À Coeur Léger Sommeil Sanglant. Exclaim! 及 Splendid 均給予正面評價. 以下試聽. 請自便.

"À Coeur Léger Sommeil Sanglant" (2004) Tracklist:

1. Zeta Reticuli Express
2. Orage
3. Victoire sur le Soleil
4. Facultatives imaginaires, en robe et en éclats
5. The sky was glorious for a moment
6. Destroy all dreamers
7. Swirling colours sink
8. Sombrer dans la folie
9. Ghost guitar in the shell

- courtesy Destroyalldreamers

社團活動: FCC 2006 好狗運

2006-01-17T22:16:00.000-08:00

Formosa Cultural Club 福爾摩沙文化社 Presents:
2006 好狗運

日期: 2006 年 1 月 27 日
時間: 5-8:30pm
地點: Alan Emmott Center, 6650 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby
費用: MEMBER $4; NON-MEMBER $6; AT DOOR: $7

For more info, see 活動網頁

CJSF Weblaunch Party + Indie Night

2006-01-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

CJSF FM 90.1 (the old site) Presents:
Weblaunch Party + Indie Night

日期: 2006 年 1 月 20 日
時間: 2-8pm (Weblaunch Party); 7:30pm (Indie Night)
地點: SFU Convocation Mall + Highland Pub
費用: Free (Weblaunch Party); $5 (Indie Night)

Acts performing include:
- Catlow
- Book of Lists
- Collapsing Opposites

For more info, see 活動網頁

香港樂團: Fruitpunch

2006-01-16T21:03:00.000-08:00

- Patrick & Leo of Fruitpunch

眼睛向電台的信箱一望,發現到期待多時的 Fruitpunch 大碟終於抵達了本拿比山上. 立即將外層的啡色紙皮袋除去,把樂團的十年結晶 Will It End? 放入唱盤中洗耳供聽. 聽起來,真的有不小 Joy Division 的影子. 一首接一首多變的歌曲. 配上樂團現時成員 Leo 與 Patrick 那出乎意料地大起大落的鏗鏘結他聲及那嚴肅的歌詞,整張唱片散發出一鼓憤世疾俗的感傷及幽暗淒涼的氣氛. 聽後幾乎也令我有點情緒失調. 正啊! Thank you Leo & Patrick!

最新大碟 "Will It End?" Tracklist:

1. Will It End
2. Our Future
3. Plastic City
4. Below the Line
5. The Last Scene
6. The Sound of Night
7. Game of the Few
8. No Feedback
9. Watch Myself
10. Please
11. The End

樂隊官方網頁: Fruitpunch (有歌曲試聽)

香港組合: My Little Airport

2006-01-12T22:53:00.000-08:00

- Nicole & P of My Little Airport

最近發現一段有關香港 Harbour Records 旗下二人組合 My Little Airport 的舊文章. 覺得有趣. 在此分享.

「 ... Are they the perfect Hong Kong indie band? Quirky and original enough to make it as indie, My Little Airport are catchy and easy-going enough to appeal to the populace. When their single "The OK Thing to do on a Sunday Afternoon is Toddle to the Zoo" toddled to number 10 on the commercial charts, they signed on for mainstream cred. And, to prove it, the eponymous album sold out in two weeks. But it's been a year since then and P (Lam Pang) and Nicole Au Kin-ying have popped up in two indie compilations and released the first single off a second album. With a song named "When I Listen to the Field Mice" how can the band be anything but indie...?

... The pair will be graduating this year from the Hong Kong Shue Yan College course in which they met. Last year they expressed doubt at being able to pursue music as their sole career and, despite their initial success, they haven't changed their minds: the industry may be slowly growing, but 'slowly' is the operative word.

"The scene is bigger," admits Nicole. "But it doesn't mean more people are listening to indie bands' music, especially in Hong Kong." ... 」

閱讀全文: BC Magazine

* * * * * * * * * * * *

最新大碟「只因當時太緊張」 Tracklist:

1. GiGi Leung is Dead
2. I don’t know how to download good AV like Iris does
3. 只因當時太緊張
4. 失落沮喪歌
5. 就當我是張如城
6. 白田購物中心
7. Leo, are you still jumping out of windows in expensive clothes?
8. 你的微笑像朵花
9. 春天在車廂裡
10. My Little Fish

樂隊官方網頁: My Little Airport

美國組合: Northern Song Dynasty 「北宋朝代」

2006-01-11T20:54:00.000-08:00

自從上月瀏覽 MCB Online 時留意到這隊中文譯稱為「北宋朝代」(Northern Song Dynasty) 的二人樂團,一直也在期待收聽他們最近在 All Is Number Records 旗下發表的首張同名專輯. 一聽之下,發現自己像走進了時光隧道,去了 Shoegazer 繁盛時代. 由出道已久的女唱作人 Jessica Bailiff 與 Red Morning Chorus 成員 Jesse Edwards 所組成的 Northern Song Dynasty 像是自己 all-time 心頭好 Slowdive 的化身. 不講太多. 以下試聽. 請啊!

Tracklist:

1. The Disappearance of Patrick Phillip
2. Seizures
3. Saving a Lost Soul from the Cold of the Night
4. Before
5. Those Days
6. Storm
7. Tromba D'aria
8. Circle Road
9. Changing of the Seasons
10. One Step Down

- courtesy All Is Number

德國人在北京: Blixa Bargeld 碧麗霞

2006-01-10T00:04:00.000-08:00

文/王寧

“北京正成為世界的文化中心”

北京，後海的獨門四合院，碧麗霞（Blixa Bargeld）坐在沙發上，燈光暗到有些肅穆，黑頭發、黑襯衫、黑馬甲、黑褲子，塗黑的指甲，配上他白皙的臉孔與削齊的長髮，依然是那著名的吸血鬼打扮。與以往不同的是，碧麗霞腳上穿著中國傳統的老頭布鞋，笑起來也很自在：“我穿黑色不是因為我想變得哥特，正好相反，哥特是我發明的，80年代後的很多藝術形式都是我發明的。”

這人說起話來有點大言不慚，不過作為德國最著名工業樂隊“倒塌的新建築”（Einstürzende Neubauten）主唱，“尼克•凱夫和壞種子”（Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds）前吉他手，碧麗霞還擁有更多頭銜：他曾為舞臺劇如《安迪》配樂，參演過電影《死神的七柱火焰》與《完全治療》，做過行為藝術“七千本書燃起的大火”，他最著名的癖好還有給世界各地自己住過的旅館廁所拍照，並編輯成書出版。這個西柏林的戰後一代有著旺盛的創作精力與靈感，而這正是由西柏林的特殊環境所賜：被封鎖的城市、匱乏的物資、東柏林的政治攻勢。在亞歷山大廣場廢墟上建起的新建築訴說著柏林的蒼涼，“倒塌的新建築”樂隊名也就來源於此：“這是我當時脫口而出的名字，80年代的柏林真的美好，總是有有趣的事發生，不過這些在牆倒之後也就趨於平淡，就像三藩市的落寞，”碧麗霞說。“現在的北京就像當年的柏林，總有有趣的事情發生，我的感覺是，北京正成為世界的文化中心。”所以，這個男人和他的中國夫人在北京租房定居，倒也真不奇怪。

如果你認為碧麗霞是來北京隱居，那還真不是他的本意，“我每天都在外面跑來跑去，一是想做一個自己的唱片公司，我來給這些中國的藝人製作，再就是我也打算和‘倒塌的新建築’在中國來個巡演，北京要演，上海也要演。”其實，碧麗霞在中國有一籮筐計畫等待實現，看他桌上攤開的《實用漢語》就可知道，擋在路上的僅是時間而已。

好像比起北京，你不太喜歡上海？

我知道北京人都對上海人有意見，我並不是說這個城市讓我討厭，只是那裏確實沒有什麼太有意思的東西。一切都循規蹈矩，在一定的體制裏，在上海的酒吧裏經常有女人找我搭訕，想和我幹點兒什麼，她們不是認出了我，而僅僅因為我是外國人。這事兒在北京就不會發生。

來北京有沒有人認出你，我的意思是在大街上。

幾個人吧，我是說中國人。在北京經常有外國人走到我的面前大喊：“Blixa Bargeld！你居然在北京！”不過最逗的還是我在“宜家”門口碰上的一中國樂迷，他走上來就跟我說中文，好像我在中國住了好久，或者根本我就是個中國人。

你在今年9月之前素食了30年，可是突然你開始吃肉了，這是怎麼回事？

我那時來了北京，吃的第一口肉就是北京烤鴨。和其他人相反，我素食是因為我以前不喜歡動物，可是現在我喜歡動物，所以開始吃肉了。說實話，我小時候開始素食的念頭很簡單：我再也不想跟我爸吃一樣的東西了，這和做音樂一樣，是一種小反叛。

所以你們用那些不是樂器的樂器也是反叛？

那是胡扯，事實是：我當時沒錢，買不起樂器。

你小時候是個朋克，這和西柏林的政治環境有沒有關係？

那是在我十幾歲最開始玩樂隊的時候，不過老實說，“性手槍”（Sex Pistols）這樣的樂隊我實在不知道到底好聽在哪，相比之下，我還是比較喜歡“降落”（The Fall）。與其說朋克是種政治的音樂，倒不如說，我是更欣賞當時的DIY精神，這改變了世界。

好像你不太喜歡把音樂和政治聯繫上……

也不是，我十三、四歲的時候還是德國共青團的成員，那個時候，就西德來講，西柏林的共產黨尤其多，和西德的其他地方不同，除了我們自己的頻道，西柏林還能收到東德的電視節目。我現在也信辨證唯物主義，是馬克思的信徒。

你自己下載音樂嗎？

恩，我每天都上網下歌，而且不是付費的，我喜歡用P2P軟體，這能讓我聽到好多新的東西。比如今天我正在看《Wire》今年的50張最佳唱片，沒聽過的我就一張一張下來，況且在北京我也只能這樣。荷花市場那一帶有一家唱片店，我在裏邊能找著我自己的音樂，他還能給刻我們的CD，這可真好玩。我估摸著過兩天他們還會在裏邊掛上我的畫像，哈哈。

祖咒的現場你去看了，覺得他像尼克•凱夫（Nick Cave）嗎？

那是個很牛B的歌手，他的現場表演更棒，不過我真的沒法把他跟Nick Cave聯繫起來。說到這裏，我在“迷笛”上看到一個叫AK 47的樂隊，他們真的很棒，是我最喜歡的樂隊。

覺得AK 47像是中國的“戰車”（Rammstein）嗎？

哈哈，我喜歡他們就像喜歡“戰車”一樣。

那你有多喜歡“戰車”？

我喜歡他們就像喜歡AK 47……

不過你知不知道戰車的主唱為什麼總是用捲舌音唱歌，那是故意裝出來的嗎？

不是，真不是。其實梯爾•林德曼（Til Lindemann）這個人是小時候把自己舌頭咬了, 他平時說話也那樣。我對“戰車”其實沒什麼偏見，但他們的歌詞實在太粗糙了。

前一段布萊恩•伊諾（Brian Eno）來北京做裝置，你見過他嗎？

我沒去看他的裝置，不過伊諾來北京的時候我還真見著他了，就在後海一帶。我坐在計程車上，突然覺得旁邊一輛計程車裏的人很熟，像伊諾，又不敢確定。直到我發現他旁邊坐的是大衛•托普（David Toop），才猛然意識到，靠，這不就是布萊恩•伊諾嗎？

你會不會像伊諾一樣在中國錄音？

我正在北京找好的錄音室，已經有幾個我覺得還不錯。如果我和“倒塌的新建築”一起在中國錄張專輯的話，我希望那是張純人聲的，我以前做過這樣的計畫，現在我想帶樂隊一起來玩。

最後，說說你這個奇怪的中文名字，這是個女人的名字……

其實Blixa就是女人的名字，如果你現在叫我的本名，我會覺得特別奇怪，我妻子也會叫我Blixa，如果哪天收到信上寫著我護照上的名字，天哪，那肯定是員警找我麻煩了。

轉載自SODACHI! Blog 「大帝国」 (我承認最近我是比較懶...)

官方網頁: Blixa Bargeld

* * * * * * * * * * * *

補充: Blixa Bargeld 將於2月4日在溫哥華的 Red Room 演出. For ticket info, check Zulu Records.

臺灣樂團: 絲襪小姐

2006-01-06T00:46:00.000-08:00

- courtesy 傻爛Q行星的寂寞運轉

由主唱小龜及貝斯 DuDu 於2004年初組成的絲襪小姐 (Miss Wa) 今年發行了他們最新一張EP: 我會在那裡跟你說再見. 這個 duo 算是今年最冷門又最小聲的一團. 如果不是在 Clockwork Toy 看見,我必然會錯過這張曲風偏向悲傷+清新+歐陸+民謠的 CD. 聽了可能會令人想起另一隊二人組合 My Little Airport. 兩隊分別也是以 "Quiet is the new loud" 為宗旨.

絲襪小姐官方網頁: Miss Wa

日裔畫家: Takao Tanabe

2006-01-05T22:37:00.000-08:00

- courtesy University of Winnipeg Art Gallery

坐落於市中心的亞洲現代藝術中心,將由一月七日開始展出日裔畫家 Takao Tanabe (高尾田辺)的抽像派版畫作品.

Banners & Banner Paintings 1969 - 1973
January 7 - February 18, 2006

Reception & Tea Party
Sunday, January 29, 2 - 5 pm
Free parking lot at 23 West Pender

For more info, visit Centre A.

台灣樂隊: 濁水溪公社

2006-01-03T13:07:00.000-08:00

台灣唯一享有行動與言論免責權的搖滾樂隊！
　　
濁水溪公社自1990年成立以來，一直是台灣最受爭議的樂團，十年來對台灣搞團青年的影響，幾乎不下於Sex Pistols對英國樂團造成的震撼。有人說他們是台灣音樂史上，在表演形式和歌詞音樂，都最具原創性、也是最具有政治意識的樂隊。在他們的作品中，以充滿反動顛覆意味的無政府主義為主旨，來傳達對社會現狀與政治的不滿；結合硬蕊、龐克、噪音、草根、民謠、那卡西等音樂元素，呈現出「濁水溪公社」獨樹一幟的「土台客搖滾」。

打開始就把「態度」擺在「音樂」前面，踐踏前人奉為規臬的「搖滾精神」，發表的宣言幾乎比歌詞還多，每場表演都以混亂收場。但諷刺的是，這支不把音樂瞧在眼底的樂團，卻是現在台灣玩團青年心目中最重要的團體之一。從今年1月19日舉辦的向濁水致敬演唱會就可以看出來，在台灣能夠被這種陣仗對待的搖滾樂手，除了紅螞蟻、薜岳之外，也只有濁水溪公社了。

有人說他們是台灣音樂史上，在表演形式和歌詞音樂，都最具原創性、也是最具有政治意識的樂隊。一起演出時排在他們之後的團一定會擔心台上台下一場暴動之後無法登台，現場演出不只吉他貝司還有斗笠蓑衣安全帽優酪乳大布條滅火器籃球便當…去看他們的現場演出絕對比看小劇場更勁爆刺激，當你以為他們只會惡搞沒什麼音樂內涵，他們卻做出了足以名列台灣音樂史十大的專輯。以道地犀利的台語歌詞，配上生猛的編曲和親切的旋律，從文字上的關心到音樂上的屬性，讓你不得不佩服起濁水溪公社，並以自己身為台灣人為榮。

新專輯『天涯棄逃人』裡，我們聽見樂曲編排的繁複性、歌曲的動聽旋律性，但是一切又這麼粗糙生猛，完全不像一般台灣樂團的蒼白貧血。有將花蓮慈濟師兄姐和西螺七崁安平蝦捲玉井芒果乾並列，既響應本土化又邁向國際化的『寶島風情畫』；有歡欣鼓舞勸眾向善拜請地藏王菩薩天羅神地羅神祈求保佑普渡眾生排解糾紛的『歡喜渡慈行』；還有不折不扣長達十一分鐘半的演奏曲『那魯灣協奏曲』，到最後三分鐘才出現的歌詞只是樂器的一種，其工業噪音與死黑氛圍令人不由得想化著屍妝穿著傳統服飾手拉手跳山地舞；還有以拼貼佛樂和雪中紅為始，以倒退嚕和念佛號為終的快樂勸世『牽亡曲』；更不用提抗議教育體制違背愛的責任青春酸甘甜生命被放棄虱目魚跳過岸的『安定的笑容』、中山北路走七遍還是找不到停車位的『迷魂陣』、深夜站在路邊吹夜風面壁思過的『笑虧世界』、串連麻將術語的詼諧小品『麻雀英雄』、黑暗社會有茫最美的口白歌『新生活』…。

轉載自博客來音樂館

樂隊官方網頁: LTK Commune

I Love Blogs 網誌攝影展

2006-01-02T20:36:00.000-08:00

UBC 等等主義研究社 Presents:
2006 "I Love Blogs" 線上集體攝影展

參加資格: 只要你擁有 Blog 就可以報名參加
參加時間: 2006 年 1 月 1 日至 1 月 20 日
參加辦法: 有意者請在 UBCLE BBS 的相關主題裡留下你的姓名以及Blog 位置，LE 將會盡可能的以最快的速度將你列入以下的列表中。
活動規則: 每天更新至少一張攝影作品，照片可以是自己拍的當然也可以是別人的作品。
（請表明出處以及尊重智慧財產權）

For more info, see 活動網頁

各位新年快樂! Happy New Year!

2006-01-01T23:06:00.000-08:00

- courtesy MoMA

... just a feel-good pic. Have a fun and safe holiday.

啾虎祭 Tiger Chewing Fest

2005-12-28T17:15:00.000-08:00

臺灣 music festival 主辦單位倒是比其他華人地區的 festival organizer 來得爽快. 在過去短短的幾個月,臺灣樂迷已經有機會目睹幾個有份量的音樂 festival (例如: 海洋音樂祭,草地音樂祭,野台開唱,因為獨立所以自由Rose Tour, etc.). 現在再來一個"啾虎祭" (Tiger Chewing Fest). 相比之下,香港的 Rockit 和中國大陸的 Midi 顯得尤其珍貴.

Confirmed acts include:

- 牙套
- 董事長
- 八厘米天空
- 錫盤街
- 濁水溪公社
- 橙草
- 薄荷葉
- 甜梅號
- 瓢蟲
- SnoBlind (HK)
- 四分衛
- Art of Fighting (Australia)

演出團隊數目多不勝數. 風格覆蓋 Post Rock, Punk, Electronic, Trip Hop 與 Indie Pop. 必能滿足朝聖者不同的口味. 分四天,三個舞台,從下午到凌晨,迎接新年... 臺灣樂迷真幸運.

For more info, click here. Happy 2006!

Charles

我們2005年最喜歡的中文唱片

2005-12-23T18:07:00.000-08:00

中國人佔世界人口的百分之二十五. 也可被形容為全球最有影響力的民族. 可惜在國際音樂舞臺上,中文獨立音樂每每是處於一個可有可無的地位. 事實上,在中文獨立音樂圈子中有許多很出色與獨特的樂團. 往往這些樂團的創作力與現場演出令人喜出望外,唯一的是混音制作總感覺有少許尾中不足.

Everyone has a Secret - The Pancakes (Download 越過高山)

Science of Love - Pixel Toy

Elf Fatima - Elf Fatima

Will It End? - Fruit Punch (Download We Want More)

Taxi room 的士房間 - Peppermint 薄荷葉

Sorry - Nipples 妮波寺 (Download Video Recording 1)

29 Minutes From The End 29跋 - Alok

天涯棄逃人 - 濁水溪公社 (Download Video 歡喜渡慈航)

Freddy & King - Oliver

白皮書 - Public Kingdom 14

只因當時太緊張 - My Little Airport (Download 只因當時太緊張)

来自VC的礼物 - 果味VC

优美的低于生活 - 声音碎片

硬蕊海灘 - Varo (Download Stolen Summer)

我不能悲伤地坐在你身旁 - 左小诅咒

给你一点颜色 - 崔健

找一個新世界 - 董事長 (Download 般若波羅密多心經)

Compiled by: Charles & Jack

不均衡的世界貿易 WTO Hong Kong

2005-12-20T21:16:00.000-08:00

- courtesy Aimer

最近幾年,不斷聽到香港政府官員以經濟理由向民眾施加壓力. 每次示威遊行,責備示威人士影響香港的信用評級,影響香港的國際聲譽. 試問如果不使用這種方法,那又如何揭穿社會上的不公義? 難道要人們因金錢考慮而對社會不平忍氣吞聲? 再加大多數示威者向來也是以和平的方法表達意見.

Some stats:

WTO widening the gap betweeen rich and poor since: 1995

WTO member countries: 148 (China joined in 2001... Shame on you)

Protestors detained (and recently released): 944 名示威者被捕

Protestors facing charges: 14 名反世貿示威者被起訴

To learn more, here's some resources:

What You Need to Know About the WTO Before the Hong Kong Ministerial

Our World is Not For Sale - latest articles

"World trade should work for the whole world" - Ed O'brien, Radiohead

signing off... Charles

年度十大外語唱片

2005-12-17T19:43:00.000-08:00

年近歲晚. 是一個做總結最好不過的時間.

回顧過去一年,不算是什麼豐收,又說不上是什麼干旱. 見到了許多老牌歌手/樂隊 (如 Echo & the Bunnymen, Teenage Fanclub, The Tears, etc.) 重出江湖浮沉樂海. 又看見了後起之士 (如 Arctic Monkeys, Bloc Party, Editors, etc.) 一出場升價十倍. 也看到了穩重形樂團 (如 Doves, Super Furry Animals, Sigur Ros, etc.) 繼續為我們誕下一籃子的驚喜.

經過初次小圈子推舉,以下是我們的十大(不分次序):

Particles and Waves - Cranes

Love Kraft - Super Furry Animals

Takk - Sigur Ros

Leaders of the Free World - Elbow

Some Cities - Doves

Silent Alarm - Bloc Party

The Golden Morning Breaks - Colleen

The Milk of Human Kindness - Caribou

Cripple Crow - Devendra Banhart

Before the Dawn Heals Us - M83

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Other great CDs that deserve your tender loving care and notice:

Strangers - Ed Harcourt (Download Sister Renee)

The Seven Autumn Flowers - Trembling Blue Stars

Cinder - Dirty Three (Download Great Waves feat. Cat Power)

The Campfire Headphase - Boards Of Canada

At the Soundless Dawn - Red Sparowes

Feels - Animal Collective (Download The Purple Bottle)

The Fire in Our Throats Will Beckon the Thaw - Pelican

The Lie Lay Land - World's End Girlfriend (Download Singing Under the Rainbow)

The Great Destroyer - Low

Kenotic - Hammock

Mi and L'au - Mi and L'au (Download Older)

OK Cowboy - Vitalic

Down in Albion - Baby Shambles (Video Stream Killamangiro)

Descended Like Vultures - Rogue Wave

Compiled by: Charles & Jack

P.S. There's a brilliant list of 2005 favourites by The Oh So Quiet Show as well as by Chinese Restaurant in the Forest. You should definitely take a look. Also, Matt Tong of Bloc Party published his top 10 CDs of the year over here.

馬來西亞樂隊: Furniture

2005-12-04T11:22:00.000-08:00

一隊本人近期非常喜愛的東南亞樂隊(除 Pure Saturday & Damn Dirty Apes 外).

他們玩的是不折不扣的實驗音樂. 主要骨干為: Post-rock, Electronic, 與 Dreampop. 你或許可在他們身上找到少許 Album Leaf 的影子. 樂隊月前在新加坡 BayBeats Festival 演出,並受到一致好評.

For more info: visit their official site Earsofa or read this article about the band or listen to their songs here

普選 200... 7, 8, 9, or never...?

2005-11-29T23:11:00.000-08:00

這邊箱無能政府剛被推翻... 那邊箱無良政府高高在上...

於12月4日,香港人將再一次上街爭取民主進展(實行基本法《第四十五條》與《第五十三條》):

For your reference:

基本法《第四十五條》
香港特別行政區行政長官在當地通過選舉或協商產生，由中央人民政府任命。
行政長官的產生辦法根據香港特別行政區的實際情況和循序漸進的原則而規定，最終達至由一個有廣泛代表性的提名委員會按民主程序提名後普選產生的目標。
行政長官產生的具體辦法由附件一《香港特別行政區行政長官的產生辦法》規定

基本法《第五十三條》
香港特別行政區行政長官短期不能履行職務時，由政務司長、財政司長、律政司長依次臨時代理其職務。
行政長官缺位時，應在六個月內依本法第四十五條的規定產生新的行政長官。行政長官缺位期間的職務代理，依照上款規定辦理

More info: 《基本法》45條關注組

回顧90年代 Shoegazing "望鞋族" - 第二回

2005-11-27T01:41:00.000-08:00

延續過去美好的回憶... more nostalgic shoegaze/shoegaze-sounding bands...

Telescopes - The Telescopes (the photo is their # untitled album... and i think they are touring for their new album now... catch them if you can)

Idylls - Love Spiral Downwards

Bloweyelashwish - Lovesliescrushing (warning: heavy distortion!!)

There's Always Someplace You'd Rather Be - Sianspheric

Wings of Joy - Cranes

Mezcal Head - Swervedriver

Transient Random Noise Bursts With Announcements - Stereolab (you think they are just techno pop eh... think again)

Among My Swan - Mazzy Star (always amazing!)

A Storm in Heaven - The Verve (their venture into shoegaze land before super-stardom)

In the Presence of Nothing - Lilys

Chrome - Catherine Wheel

Heaven or Las Vegas - Cocteau Twins (the definitive flag bearer of shoegaze/dreampop)

Doppleganger - Curve

Angel Pool - The Autumn

Leave Here a Stranger - Starflyer 59

Before the Dawn Heals Us - M83 (need i say more?)

FM 90.1 鎮店之寶... ?

2005-11-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

...haha

- courtesy SFU Peak Student Newspaper

Just Announced!

2005-11-23T10:23:00.000-08:00

本地華人英式搖滾樂隊 Embryos 將會在 Nov 26 (星期六) 在唐人街"夜上海"免費演出

I believe this will be their first show with the new lineup: Roy (vocal, guitar), Ken (guitar), Kevin (bass), Tim (drum).

其他演出樂隊包括: 全女班 Sanctuary & Euphonix

For more info, contact: Nelson @ 604-783-0303 or email: tinnelson@hotmail.com

Victoria Park is their canvas

2005-11-16T15:23:00.000-08:00

Rockit 3 除了是樂隊大展拳腳的地方,也是畫家的遊樂場.

For more info, click here

回顧90年代 Shoegazing "望鞋族"

2005-11-12T23:34:00.000-08:00

Anything remotely shoegazing, floaty, and fuzzy... try some of these, if you haven't already. Enjoy the bliss...

1. Souvlaki - Slowdive

2. In Ribbons - Pale Saints

3. Nowhere - Ride

4. Pychocandy - Jesus & the Mary Chain

5. Against Perfection - Adorable (this album is just amazing!!)

6. On Fire - Galaxie 500

7. Spooky - Lush

8. Everything Alright Forever - Boo Radleys

9. Copacetic - Velocity Girl

10. Honey Bee - Moose

11. Delaware - Drop Nineteens (the picture is their second release National Coma)

12. Whirlpool - Chapterhouse

13. Lesser Matter - Radio Dept. (influenced by many of the bands listed above)

14. Future Perfect - Autolux (that's right...)

I wish I had seen this a tad bit earlier

2005-11-05T14:38:00.000-08:00

妮波寺談日本

2005-11-05T10:08:00.000-08:00

台灣獨立樂團的希望在日本

這是再明顯也不過的事實。在台灣玩團的青年們，只有獨立樂團，才有機會受邀，一但變成大唱片公司旗下藝人，就沒機會了。

就我的經驗，發現我和東京、橫濱的日本人溝通，要比在中國上海北京的人容易。
我和日本年輕人的英文都很爛，但是我覺得還是有某種groove是通的，但是和中國人，使用相同的語言，但是就不知道到底真正的意思是什麼。

TIZZ BAC要去日本富士搖滾音樂祭表演了，這音樂祭全票一萬三台票左右，每年超過七萬到十萬人買票去看！

這是再明顯也不過的事實。在台灣玩團的青年們，只有獨立樂團，才有機會受邀，一但變成大唱片公司旗下藝人，就沒機會了。

為什麼？

因為特色，有特色，才能獲得別人的注意，而不是經過唱片公司強加的塑造，在音樂和樂團本身的特質上，都變得毫無個性，全部是一個樣。如果以台灣的xx團為許，扮演的是別人，是那個xx團，對外國的觀眾而言，他們不需要看一個拷貝貓表演，以日本的音樂環境來說，他們想看xx團就直接看xx團，不需要去看一個像xx團的別的團。

預祝 TIZZ BAC演出成功

- courtesy sorry:Nipples

明天星期六: Nov 5

2005-11-04T16:54:00.000-08:00

Music: 請聽... hehe

Spoken Word: seriously, i have no clue. but, definitely left-wing propaganda... hehe

by the way, it's been a while since i read chinese poetry la... here's one for you.

- courtesy Great Chinese Poets

Sleep is the new sex!

2005-10-29T16:48:00.000-07:00

- courtesy Seripop

Rockit 3: Nov 12-13

2005-10-23T21:29:00.000-07:00

Acts confirmed include:

- Feeder
- The Brian Jonestown Massacre
- Soler
- DJ Marky & Stamina MC
- Joris Voorn
- Robot
- Uptown Rockers
- Shotgun She
- Ras
- Frankie Lam
- The Academy
- Qiu Hong

For more info: www.rockit-hk.com

Brit-pop albums you should try... if you haven't already

2005-10-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

Equally Cursed and Blessed - Catatonia

All Change - Cast

Olympian - Gene

Moseley Shoals - Ocean Colour Scene

From Here On In - South

The Queen Is Dead - The Smiths

Different Class - Pulp

Great Escape - Blur

A Northern Soul - Verve

Sci-Fi Lullabies - Suede

The Stone Roses - The Stone Roses

Pills Thrills & Bellyaches - Happy Mondays

K - Kula Shaker

The Bends - Radiohead (hehe... of course)

Morning Glory - Oasis (oh well... gotta give them the credit... they deserve it)

Lovely - Primitives

Some Friendly - The Charlatans

I Should Coco - Supergrass

~enjoy!

本星期六: Oct 22

2005-10-22T00:10:00.000-07:00

This week we go beyond chinese music... yohoo

Music: Pure Saturday (Indonesia), Furniture (Malaysia), Damn Dirty Apes (Malaysia), Lucy in the loo (Malaysia), Sky in Euphoria (Singapore), Kid koala (Canada), and more chinese music as usual... hehe

Spoken Word: again you'll have to listen to find out lor...;)

cheers...

Rx: 你有得醫

2005-10-16T21:20:00.000-07:00

病癥:

1.當收聽平平乏味而情情搭搭的中文音樂時;
2.當收聽主流媒體花考而多餘的節目時;

病人對以上情況產生嚴重嘔吐反應

處方:

- 收聽FM90.1【言樂坊】治療
- 每周一次(星期六)
- 每次兩小時(中午12-2pm)

注意: 費用全免,效果視個人而異

副作用: 嘔吐反應可能加強

Must-See 音樂會預告

2005-10-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

Sunno)))
Venue: The Brickyard
Date: Oct 26

Rachel's with Invert
Venue: Richard's on Richards
Date: Nov 7

Super Furry Animals with Caribou
Venue: Richard's on Richards
Date: Nov 26

Echo & The Bunnymen
Venue: Richard's on Richards
Date: Dec 2
Tix: C$25

演唱會感想 Sigur Rós – Building Sonic Cathedrals City by City

2005-10-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

By Charles Tai

On Tuesday, September 27, 2005, Reykjavik-based space rock quartet Sigur Rós delivered a smashing show at the Orpheum Theatre, in promotion of their first major label full-length release Takk (2005). Charles Tai, co-host of Saturday’s That Chinese Show, had this to say, after seeing the show.

Ah… Iceland. This desolate speck of land that forever floats in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean surely must have been planted on earth by some 4-eye creatures from Uranus. Its population must have been fed with milk made from the outer limit of the infinite cosmos. Its radio stations must have been playing encrypted audio signals transmitted from a distant galaxy. What else could explain the eerie lunar landscape found on this island? What else could inspire the extraterrestrial yet breathtaking sound that its people seemed to have the unique aptitude of making?

Well, perhaps these propositions were somewhat exaggerated, but one does not have to look far for a supporting argument. Sigur Rós is a case in point. Are they really just four guys making music, or are they here on a mission to put a spell on us so that their friends from outerspace would some day rule the world? Maybe I’m going insane, but you get the point.

Ever since the release of their international debut Ágætis Byrjun (1999), Sigur Rós, whose popularity was already massive in their homeland, was now vying for world domination. On the eve of their Vancouver show, hundreds of followers eagerly lined up outside the venue long before the official start time. Just by glancing at the crowd, you could find homeless-looking hipsters, limo-riding yuppies, and elderly season ticket holders all mingled together. Once inside the lavish chandeliered halls of the Orpheum Theatre, one could not help but be overwhelmed by the holiness of the event.

As the lights dimmed, Amina, the all-girl backing orchestra of Sigur Rós, stepped on stage to play a few ditties to warm up the audience. The group seemed to have transported an entire universe of musical gears onto the stage. Amongst the heap of foreign instruments, one could spot a shinny blade of saw, a series of ding bells, several gong-like string instruments, and a variety of violins, cellos, xylophones, glockenspiels and organs. However, few were impressed by their sparse wintry music. Even fewer were able to tell one song apart from another. Most people would agree that they sound better playing behind their fellow countrymen.

Joined by Amina, Sigur Rós kicked off their 2-hour set with the new song, Glosoli, behind a sheer white curtain, lit with mysterious silhouettes of the band. As the curtain pulled back for the second song, audience were greeted with the saintly figures of Jón þor Birgisson (vocals, guitars), Kjartan Sveinsson (keyboards), Orri páll Dýrason (drums) and Georg Holm (bass). As soon as Birgisson positioned the infamous bow across his guitar, the crowd knew they were in for a goosebumps-raising and spine-chilling experience.

The band played tunes mainly from both Takk (2005) and their breakthrough album Agaetis Byrjun (1999). Highlights included Ný batterí, Viðrar vel til loftárása and Gong, which the band stopped midway due to a faulty piano. Without a doubt, the pinnacle of the night had to be Svefn-g-englar. Here, Birgisson’s signature voice was even more impressive live than on the recording. The dynamic highs and lows of the song were impeccably delivered, as Birgisson cautiously draw his bow to give it that searing texture. It was a precious moment. The band ended the show with Untitled #8, last track from the 2002 ( ) album. The crowd gave the Icelandic sonic architects a resounding ovation, to which the band responded by taking two extended bows.

Regardless whether or not Sigur Rós have inherited genes from outerspace ancestors, one thing we can all agree on is that they make brilliant music. Their music seemed to speak a language that touches deep inside the tissues and fibres in all of us.

For more information on Sigur Rós, please visit their official website: http://www.sigur-ros.is

本星期六: Oct 1

2005-09-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

Music: Jack will be hosting this week's music segment... i'm sure he'll have some surprises for ya...

Spoken Word: hm...

Do check out the films showcase at the 2005 Vancouver Film Festival. Jack's pick is China's Peacock. My pick is Shanghai Dreams, winner of Cannes Film Festival... hehe

i'll see you next week...

charles

Charles' Top 10 Way-Cool Bands

2005-09-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

1. Sunno)))
2. Lightning Bolt
3. Sun Kil Moon
4. Neutral Milk Hotel
5. Autolux
6. Death in Vegas
7. Super Furry Animals
8. Mogwai (of course...hehe)
9. My Bloody Valentine (classic!)
10. Rachel's

下星期六: Sept 24

2005-09-22T17:22:00.000-07:00

Music: Alok (Hong Kong's Aphex Twin - electronic musik genius), some chill out stuff from China, My Little Airport (Hong Kong), Gaybird and 有耳非聞 (Taiwan), etc.

Spoken Word: Listen and find out... hehe

seeya

妙想天開演唱會 - Pancakes

2005-09-16T10:19:00.000-07:00

死後復生

2005-09-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

yes... i'm not dead...

just returned from Hongkong... so this site will be back to normal la.

2 Major Gig happening on Sept 27 at 8:00pm:

活動 #1: CITR 99.3 FM ShinDig Bandshow
樂隊: Windfall
場地: Railway Club, Vancouver

活動 #2: Sigur Ros Concert
樂隊: Sigur Ros
場地: Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver

that's it for now,

charles

什麼是 Elf Fatima?

2005-07-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

Elf (ĕlf)
n., pl. elves (ĕlvz).
A small, often mischievous creature considered to have magical powers.

Fat·i·ma also Fat·i·mah (făt'ə-mə) , 616?–633.
Daughter of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. She married Ali, among the first to embrace Islam, and is regarded by Muslims as one of the Four Perfect Women.

* * * * * * * * * * *

Elf Fatima is a post-rock quartet from Hong Kong, founded in 1997.

Their influences include post-rock giants such as Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Mogwai, and Sigur Rós as well as the shoegazing bands of the 1990s. Their songs are mostly instrumental, and sometimes accompanied by the dreamy vocals of frontwoman "Elf" (戴卓玲).

The current members are:

Elf (vocals)
Eddie Hui (guitar)
Voodoobee (bass)
Dave Yip (drums)

Their debut album Kill All W (2001) featured a peculiar close-up photograph of a hairy armpit on its cover. It established the group's sound and included the single Your Mind Has Been Damaged, previously featured on the compilation Collected Monsters II Live (2000). The band remained underground until their second release, the eponymous Elf Fatima (2005).

Elf Fatima opened for Mogwai in Hong Kong on October 10, 2004.

Here's their official website: http://www.elf-fatima.com/

下星期六: July 23

2005-07-21T00:29:00.000-07:00

Pixel Toy

識少少扮代表... know your music terminologies

2005-07-18T22:59:00.000-07:00

1. Twee Pop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twee_pop)
2. Baggy (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baggy)
3. Britpop (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Britpop)
4. Shoegazing (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoegazing)
5. Madchester (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madchester)
6. Post-rock (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Post_rock)

thank god for wiki... and lastly, i'll leave you with the link to: 24 hour party people

cheers...

Best band in the world, full stop! 魔怪

2005-07-11T16:32:00.000-07:00

獨立音樂定義?

2005-07-11T15:59:00.000-07:00