55 years ago this week, The Beatles entered EMI Abbey Road Studios for what would arguably be the most revolutionary week of their recording career. Working closely with their beloved producer George Martin and an eager young EMI engineer named Geoff Emerick, the band developed a slew of innovative new techniques that would forever change their sound and the sound of pop music.
The song “Rain”, born out of these sessions and released as the B-side to Paperback Writer in mid-1966, would be the world’s first glimpse into the brilliant new ideas and sounds that burst forth on the landmark Revolver album in August 1966.
Canadian composer Rob McAllister’s ambient, neoclassical project Music Within is set to soothe thoughts and ease minds with his new, dream-like single, “Reverie.”
Like watching the sun set upon a quiet hilltop on a summer night, “Reverie” is a tranquil, relaxing, and beautifully mellow composition. Featuring the arrangement of soft, gradual piano keystrokes adjoined with the alleviating reverb of the synthesizer, “Reverie” rounds out with warming strums of an electric guitar.
The resulting dreamy sound flows through ears with ease, settling in the crevices of minds, and instilling audiences with a sense of peace. “Within you, there’s a place of escape; a place to reflect, reminisce and wonder; a place that’s all your own,” he expresses. “I hope this music might offer an escape for those experiencing a difficult time right now.”
The single will be appearing on his upcoming album, Finding Stillness II — a continuation of 2018’s Finding Stillness — which embodies the same calming, meditative atmosphere as its previous counterpart.
It’s a natural direction for the Toronto-based artist, and one that’s connecting with audiences deeply; his Spotify streams sit at upwards of 2.2 Million+ alone.
From his roots as a classically trained multi-instrumentalist, along with his experience as a modern classical composer, McAllister has developed a keen gift to create impassioned music which can speak to his audience’s souls without the use of words. His contributions as a television and film score composer (having recently co-scored the soundtrack to the Town of Widows documentary) have only enriched his ability to connect even deeper with a listener’s emotions.
“Reverie” was written and performed by Music Within in Toronto, Ontario. The single was engineered, produced and mixed by Rob McAllister with mastering handled by Justin Gray.
British alt-folk, alt-Americana ‘Indie for Grownups’ act Wonders of the Yukon are at it again with this, the release of their new single, “Rachel (And All The Goofs And The Stars)” — available now.
Just when you think you’re on the right path and have this folk-noir duo all sussed out, they come right back at you with their unnerving and unsettling existential commentaries, returning you to that feeling of not quite knowing where you stand.
It’s like: You’re in a familiar place, looking at something or someone you know like the back of your hand.
But…
Your head is cocked to one side. Staring intently. A furrowed-brow with lips slightly parted. A quizzical, marginally pained expression on your face.
Because that seemingly familiar image is different in a way you can’t quite put your finger on.
And your thoughts are racing, asking yourself ‘is that my imagination or is there an unseen darkness lurking deep within?’
And so it is with “Rachel (And All The Goofs And The Stars),” out now via Wonders of the Yukon’s own label, Wounded Wolf.
Continuing the bands exploration into northern English sentimentality and the darker side of American culture, this new offering fizzes with indie-pop guitars, driving bass, and pounding beats; it’s been described as Power Pop meets Americana — or Powerpop-icana to coin a phrase.
Musically, it is as different to previous release, “Every Once In A While,” as it can be, but lyrically, is another masterful example of layers and hidden meaning.
“It’s a simple lyric designed to make you think,” co-front Andy Campbell, who takes over lead vocal duties on this track, explains. “In essence, it’s just a love story with a question mark hanging over who exactly the recipient of the love is.”
He’s not wrong.
There is a real sense of destabilisation here; a twisted reality, really. Is this a tale of small-town drama, or one of a seductive temptress?
On the surface, audiences seem to be accompanying Campbell on a road-trip to hook up with his girl; ‘I’m on my way to Rachel,’ he sings in the opening line. And that he’s ‘speeding in [his] rental’ suggests the urgency he feels to be reacquainted with his love.
But hang-on a minute: He follows with ‘…and they’re forming a queue.’ Sorry? Who are? And why are they? Exactly what type of girl is this Rachel that Campbell seems so smitten with?
And that’s when you remember that this is Wonders of the Yukon, and of course there’s a double meaning here. As Campbell elucidates, ‘think Area 51, think conspiracy theories, think ‘the truth is out there’. Imagine you are so desperate for answers; it’s a passion — a lust, even — and it borders on unrequited love.
“So, that’s that then,” co-front Dave Langdale adds. “It’s just a tale of a guy driving to the desert to do a bit of UFO spotting.”
And with that, we’re back on track: Yes, there’s a simple double-meaning here, but it’s just me confusing objects of affection. Wonders of the Yukon are not messing with my head this time. I do know where I stand. I do have it sussed.
And then, mischief etched all over his face, Langdale offers, “I’m guessing you’ve seen the video? That’ll help you get to grips with it all.”
Ah, of course.
The video. The visual explanation of the lyrical narrative. What better way to establish the true meaning behind the song.
Developed by up-and-coming graphic artist 44skulls, the story takes audiences on a rapid journey through the production of a range of striking and highly arresting visual stills. There is a real feeling of movement, vibrancy, and playfulness which compliments the subject matter perfectly. It also offers an additional artistic dimension to the band as we move away from the brutalist surrealism and black, white and red colour palette of previous Wonders of the Yukon releases to one of cartoonish graphics and vividly neon hues.
“It adds to the band image we’ve established over previous releases,” Langdale says. “The US road trip, the wide-open vistas, the coupling of English eccentricity with the American dream…
“And, of course, WOTY appears in there a number of times too.”
WOTY refers to the band mascot: A character created from a stencilled outline of a guitar pick-guard spray-painting job. “He’s appeared in the last three videos since being ‘born’ in the video to ‘Cartoon Dreams,’” Campbell says. “And it’s certain he’ll continue to appear in the videos to forthcoming releases.”
“I feel like it’s definitely the way to go,” he adds, referencing the change of direction in the video. “I’ve always loved and wanted to incorporate a more graphical and colourful angle into the band imagery. I love the work of 44skulls. It fits perfectly for me.”
Back to the video narrative, it’s all so simple isn’t it? A desert landscape. A road trip through the American West. The mountainous scenery, the long, straight roads, the plaid shirts and the classic VDubs.
And yes, here he is. Our narrator… Capped, tattooed and bearded. Ready to complete his journey to his Rachel, whether that be temptress or township.
And now he’s an alien…
And now the landscape looks like a still from a Sci-Fi movie…
And now he’s in space….
And now he’s driving a moon buggy….
And now, once more, I’m not sure what the heck is going on, and what I’m supposed to think.
Wonders of the Yukon are at it again. The world is not what I thought it was.
Award-winning Chicago-based neo-soul R&B artist Raja-nee’ summons audiences to “Come Get This Love” in this, her fiery, romantic, and enticing new video and single.
The four-minute, 30 second-spanning tune features musicians John “The Saint” Morris and Wilfred “Nenja” Frelix, and is driven by an undeniably funky, yet subtle bass track before its topped off with a steady, calming drum beat — all of which perfectly complements the soothing delivery of Raja-nee’’s romantic vocal phrases.
The romantic elements are not just reminiscent of some of the singer’s earliest material from back in the day, but much of the music from the 1970s R&B scene too. ‘I’m patiently waiting for you to take me away from here,’ sings the veteran neo soul artist — born Renee Knott-Freeman — in the opening line. ‘It’s driving me crazy, anticipating how you’ll hold me so near.’
On top of Raja-nee’’s lust-filled and poetic lyrics, listeners are treated to the smooth sounds of a classic pop piano, which is layered with a plethora of buttery, bluesy guitar licks. The best part, perhaps? It’s only one taste of Raja-nee’’s forthcoming studio album, The Sovereign of 14742 — which drops this May.
On the concept of The Sovereign of 14742, Raja-nee’ revealed it’s a simple dedication to her mother and father. “14742 is the address of my childhood home,” she shares. “Out of nine children, I am the youngest and was deemed as spoiled … or the ‘Sovereign.’”
Raja-nee’ began singing in church at the mere age of five. As an emerging talent, her voice was recognized by Marshall Thompson of Chicago’s infamous Chi-Lites, and his mentorship helped develop her craft and stage presence. She toured with the Chi-Lites, and recorded on their Just Say You Love Me album — with the hit-single “Eternity” garnering top spots on overseas radio stations.
Years later, after garnering much attention for herself, Raja-nee’ landed a production deal and auditioned with the super producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. That was what led to her solo breakout on A&M/Perspective records. Her debut reggae album featured hits such as: “Bitchism,” “Take Your Time,” and “Turn It Up” — which was featured on the official motion picture soundtrack for 1994’s hit movie, A Low Down Dirty Shame.
As well as being featured on various syndicated television shows and across the pages of numerous music magazines, Raja-nee’ has recorded with the late and legendary James Brown, and been awarded the coveted Chicago Home Jam Award.
Canadian country singer-songwriter Tommy John Ehman is serving up his timeless new take on the Bruce Springsteen classic hit, “Hungry Heart.”
A multi-releasing and acclaimed singer/songwriter, this is Ehman’s (pronounced ēmn, with a hard ‘e’) first official cover offering, and lands a month after his not one, but two 2021 Saskatchewan Country Music Award nominations were announced: Male Artist of the Year, and Songwriter of the Year.
“‘Hungry Heart’ has been one of my favourite Springsteen songs, right from its original release in 1980, even before I knew it was The Boss singing it,” Ehman shares. “It’s such a classic. It’s simple, yet complex… Happy, yet sad at the same time… Thoughtful, yet spontaneous.
“I think we can all relate to that after 2020,” Ehman adds, “and who doesn’t need more heart in these socially distant days?! When I would play it live, it always got the crowd going and having fun, and we could all use more of that right now.
“This is a song to fall in love with all over again.”
Teeming with his resonant heart-felt vocals, plus his own tweaks to the track, Ehman’s “Hungry Heart” was produced by Brad Prosko of Regina’s B-Rad Studio. (There’s a further Boss-man connection afoot: Prosko also produced Ehman’s fourth studio album, Wheels of Life — which featured the legendary bass guitarist, Garry Tallent of Springsteen’s E-Street Band.)
Drummer Jayson Brinkworth, bassist Shane Hendrickson (Aaron Pritchett), and keyboardist Mike Little (George Canyon) round out the track’s contributions.
Born and raised in Saskatchewan, Ehman is deeply entrenched in his rural roots — both musically, and otherwise. He and his family live on their fifth-generation farm and, while a degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa reduced his day-to-day activities on the farm, it hasn’t precluded him from writing songs and performing live.
With six studio albums to his credit — including 2019’s Day Night — Ehman has had multiple Top 100 charting songs, radio placements, and media features nationwide. He’s received # Saskatchewan Country Music Award nominations — including this year’s SCMA nods for Songwriter of the Year and Male Artist of the Year — and shared the stage with the likes of his band, Idle Rains, Midnight Highway, Doc Walker, Michelle Wright, and more.
How much money should you save before moving out? A common question that most of us have contemplated when deciding to leave the nest. The answer would be ‘save at least 3 months of expenses”. However, the cost vary as there are several additional costs that you would be including in the total. Moving cost for that matter is one of the most significant cost that you must prepare for. The cost associated with the moving process can overwhelm you, especially if it is the first time you are moving out. Besides searching for the most affordable movers at movingfeedback.com, you will also need to know the right amount of savings you will need once you move out.
We understand the plight and hence have come up with this post to help you make the right financial arrangements. So, let’s get started.
What is the ‘right amount’ to save?
Moving out of the nest is a big decision and the most overwhelming one, you need prepare strategically for the big step if you want to prevent the financial burden that comes with wrong planning and no savings. It is common knowledge that you would need money to finance the move but what amount would be sufficient is the question. Before you know what amount of savings would be enough to have a financially safe moving experience, let us first understand what does the amount actually represents.
Experts state that it is important to save at least 3-4 months of expenses before you move out. However, depending on your personal goals and expenses, the amount would vary. It is important that you consider the rent and daily expenses, also, any additional money that you prefer to spend must be included in this amount.
Here a generic breakdown of some of the common expenses and also easy ways to calculate these expenses.
Saving the rent
One of the biggest expense that you would have to handle is the rent money. It the US, landlords usually ask for a security deposit, as per the financial experts, it is recommended to not rent a house that eats more than 1/3 of your income as monthly rent. However, this is not a practical approach as in big cities like Los Angeles and New York, the rents of even the smallest apartments is sky high.
Lately, the landlords have changed the requirements and now you may have to deposit an amount equal to half month’s rent or 11.5 month’s rent as security amount. Depending upon how much space you need, the amount can vary from one person to another. Whatever be the amount, it is important that you keep this money separately.
Save the moving expenses
One of the significant expense associated with the moving process is moving costs. The cost of moving services have increased in the recent years and what you pay for a simple house move in 2020 may not be the same in 2021. An average account of moving costs in NYC is as follows:
Average Studio Moving Cost – $400 – $750
Average 1 Bedroom Moving Cost – $750 – $1000
Average 2 Bedroom Moving Cost – $1000 – $1500
Average 3 Bedroom Moving Cost – $1500 AND UP
The cost can vary depending upon the number of rooms you are moving, distance traveled and any additional services availed. An additional room would cost you around $400 extra. If there are some extra labor services requires, like moving the stuff to the higher floors or lack of service elevators, you may have to pay extra.
How to calculate the right amount to save before moving?
Now, let us do a quick recap of the costs we discussed above, depending upon the choice of city you are moving to ( larger cities have higher cost of living as compared to small cities), you must calculate the amount. Let us assume you will have to pay $1000 as the rent. Three months expense on rent would be $3000 then. Now, for the moving costs, you will need to calculate all the services you need, distance you would travel and insurance as well. Let us take a rough figure $500 for it. The sum total of the two heads make $3500. This is the amount that will ensure that you can move into an apartment safely and affordably.
Now, if you are considering saving for three months, you will have to save the living expenses as well. If you spend $400 a month, you will have to save $1200. Adding all heads makes the total amount to be saved as $4700 rounded to $5000 for a month.
You can do the calculation as per your expenses and living preferences and come to a final amount that would secure you financially for next 3 months. Moving affordably is a possibility if you know how to plan the move and the expenses of the coming months, use this guide as the base and calculate the right amount you should save before moving out.
The first form of Devo was the “Sextet Devo” which performed at the 1973 Kent State performing arts festival and was filmed and a part was included on the home video The Complete Truth About De-Evolution. This lineup performed only once. Devo returned to perform in the Student Governance Center (featured prominently in the film) at the 1974 Creative Arts Festival with a lineup including the Casale brothers, Bob Lewis, Mark Mothersbaugh, and Jim Mothersbaugh on drums.
“Pawn Stars” follows three generations of the Harrison family as they assess the value of items coming in and out of their Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, from the commonplace to the truly historic.
Rick calls in a special guest to authenticate an extremely rare Nudie’s Rodeo Suit worn by Billy Gibbons from the iconic band, ZZ Top, in this clip from Season 18, “Gotsta Get Pawned.”
The Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) today announced that Andrew Cash, a former Member of Parliament and JUNO Award winning Canadian independent artist, has been appointed as the organization’s President.
“After an exhaustive search, we’re thrilled to announce Andrew Cash as the new President of CIMA,” says Tim Potocic, Chair of CIMA’s Board of Directors and President of Sonic Unyon Records. “Andrew brings enormous strength to our organization with his unique combination of music, government, policy and community activism experience. We’re excited for the future, with him leading the way.”
At CIMA, Cash plans to build on the relationships, skills and experience he has gained in his past work to help lead Canada’s independent music sector to a robust recovery when the Covid-19 pandemic ends.
“Our members are at the forefront of Canada’s new economy as home-grown generators of intellectual property, green jobs and exports,” Cash says. “I look forward to working with all parts of Canada’s music ecosystem, along with our partners in government and the private sector, to ensure our industry has what it needs for a robust post-pandemic recovery.”
The independent music sector is a significant and growing part of the overall music ecosystem, accounting for approximately one-third of the global recorded music market in 2020. Recorded music sales have been increasing steadily since 2015 in Canada, thanks in part to the growing popularity of streaming music services. However, many people and businesses in music – notably artists and the live music sector – have been significantly impacted by the global pandemic.
“As a former artist and arts entrepreneur, I’m particularly eager to help the people at the foundation of our sector – Canadian artists – get back on their feet stronger than ever,” Cash says. “The musical talent, digital knowhow and entrepreneurial spirit needed to make this happen are in place. CIMA will play an active role in helping artists and Canada’s independent music sector bounce back to full strength.”
Andrew Cash was the MP for Toronto’s Davenport riding from 2011 to 2015. As an MP, he served on the Canadian Heritage committee, the Special Committee on Copyright Act reform legislation (Bill C-11), and as Citizenship and Immigration Critic for the Official Opposition. Having experienced the realities of making a living as an independent artist and arts entrepreneur, Cash dedicated himself in Parliament to raising the issues and voices of independent workers. Legislation he tabled in the 41st Parliament led to first-ever labour protections for unpaid interns under federal jurisdiction. He continued this mission post-Parliament, co-founding the non-profit Urban Worker Project, which seeks better protection and conditions for contract, freelance and self-employed workers.
Previously as a singer/songwriter and guitarist in Canada’s indie music scene, Cash played with the punk band L’Etranger, whose lineup also included fellow MP Charlie Angus. He launched a successful solo career in 1986, later collaborating with other artists including Jason Collett, Skydiggers and Peter Cash, created soundtrack music for television and wrote for NOW Magazine. Cash’s contributions as an artist earned him a JUNO award and three SOCAN awards. His music can be found at https://andrewcash.net.
