Majora - Skyfire

Victoria band Majora played the Wacken battle and had Hammer Records film one of their songs. Big thanks to Allstar Pacific Media Solutions for sending us the board audio to mix in with our recorded live audio!

Check out Majora HERE.

Joseph Arthur - Machines Of War

Joseph Arthur has revealed the video for his tender new single ‘Machines Of War’. Coinciding with the US Memorial Day next week, the track was premiered on Flood Magazine and is a haunting and shadowy eclipse of wartime terror beneath the song’s melancholic melodies.

Joseph comments, “‘Machines of War’ wasn't meant to be a protest song but rather part of the greater story in ‘The Family’. It's sung from the perspective of my/one’s Grandfather going off to fly a fighter plane in World War Two. But as I wrote it and sung it I did start feeling the emotion of the personal loss war creates. The loss of war factors heavily in the overall story of ‘The Family’ and I felt that that obviously resonated with the current times.”

‘Machines Of War’ is taken from his new album The Family, which will be released through Real World Records on June 3^rd and available on vinyl in late June. The album sees Joseph in his creative element, at the hands of his recently acquired 1912 Steinway Vertegrand piano, which he wrote the whole ofThe Family on - a first for Joseph who for the most part writes songs from guitar, and who single-handedly took on vocals, drums, drum programming, pianos, guitars and synths for the recording of the new album.

You can see the piano in question, which was a potent source of inspiration for his raw and emotive writing, in the video for the previous single ‘You Keep Hanging On’, which perfectly captures the dreamscape moods and beautiful arrangements that resonate throughout the album.

The Family was mixed by Tchad Blake, whose previous collaborations with Joseph include the well-loved songs ‘Honey and the Moon’ and ‘In The Sun’, the latter of which has been covered by Michael Stipe and Peter Gabriel.

Joseph also performed at the recent all-star 'Music of David Bowie’ concert alongside Michael Stipe, Debbie Harry and more with Joseph performing ‘The Man Who Sold The World’. He is also a prolific writer, principally of poetry, and his unique and often unpredictable solo live performances often incorporate live painting and a sprinkling of beat-poetry.

Originally discovered by Peter Gabriel, and subsequently signed to his Real World record label in 1997, Joseph quickly established a reputation as a formidable and creative talent with his experimental folk-rock style, diverse instrumentation and eclectic electronic production elements.

With 20+ albums under his belt, Joseph is as known for his solo records as his collaborations with acclaimed performers including Lou Reed, Peter Gabriel, T-Bone Burnett, Dhani Harrison and Ben Harper of Fistful of Mercy and RNDM with Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament.

“Joseph Arthur is a long-term disrupter and a challenger of the norms. He is possibly the most talented musician of the last twenty years in the US. Over the years, he has adapted and changed his style but has always amazed with his offering. Long may this disrupter bring joy to our lives.” Huffington Post

“His influences are plain enough - Dylan, Waits, Cobain - but by the end he sounds like nobody but himself; dark, lovelorn and clever.” The Observer

“Joseph Arthur's an oddball songsmith who weaves words, guitars and a whole heap of discordant sounds into songs that hang around your head long after they finish. The sound is spooked, wildy introspective, yet wide open enchanting.” 
Uncut

“Put simply, Joe is sickeningly talented.“

The Independent

Prince Tribute Night: Barry Warne

The Rickshaw Theatre is putting on a Prince Tribute Night on July 22nd. This will include 19 bands performing a song or two from Prince's repertoire. We spoke with Barry Warne about the upcoming performance and what Prince meant to him.

Hammer Records: What was the first song that your heard by Prince?

Barry: Soft and Wet

Hammer Records: How did Prince’s music influence yourself as a musician?

Barry: To push myself, to be prolific, to go for it - to trust first takes

Hammer Records: Does Prince influence your current band?

Barry: Me, yes

Hammer Records: Why did you choose this certain song(s) to perform by Prince?

Barry: His keyboard arrangements always so fun

Hammer Records: With such a large diverse number of bands performing, are there any bands you are looking forward to seeing share the stage with you?

Barry: Looking forward to hearing all the acts and experience the emotion of the night

Hammer Records: Where can people find your music? What are your social media links?

Barry: https://barrywarne.bandcamp.com/

Prince Tribute Night: Zafirios

The Rickshaw Theatre is putting on a Prince Tribute Night. A ton of great bands playing one or two songs of Princes. Don't miss the night on July 22nd. We had a quick chat with Zaf, guitarist and singer in Zafirios.

Hammer Records: What was the first song that your heard by Prince?

Zaf: Chaka Khan’s version of “I Feel For You.”  It was the first 45 I bought.  I always loved the groove, and chord progressions of that song, not to mention Stevie Wonder on harmonica.  Later, I found out that Prince released it on his eponymously titled debut.

Hammer Records: How did Prince’s music influence yourself as a musician?

Zaf: The fact that he was a perfectionist and a master of many instruments makes you realize that you have to practice, practice, practice in order to even think about coming close to him.  He kept refining his craft, which is inspiring and humbling as a musician.  Plus, I like to warm up my practice sessions by playing along with his songs.

Hammer Records: Does Prince influence your current band?

Zaf: Our band “Zafirios” has a strong funk influence that is partially inspired by listening to Prince, on my end over the years.

Hammer Records: Why did you choose this certain song(s) to perform by Prince?

Zaf: I love the storytelling in both “When You Were Mine” and “Peach.”  “When You Were Mine” shows the strange side of human nature; how we miss someone more after a relationship is over, despite the fact that it didn’t work out.  Plus, it sounds very new wave, which shows how Prince experimented with different genres.  “Peach” seems bold, cocky, and lusty, but when you listen closer, you realize that the narrator is vulnerable and feels like his love interest is way out of his league.  Plus, it has some fiery solos from the Purple One.

Hammer Records: With such a large diverse number of bands performing, are there any bands you are looking forward to seeing share the stage with you?

Zaf: Trailerhawk, China Syndrome, Eddy D and the Sexbombs

Hammer Records: Where can people find your music? What are your social media links?

Zaf: Here is our music: https://soundcloud.com/zafirios-georgilas/sets/zafirios-demo-2015

And this is our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Zafirios-398466450327368/?fref=ts

Prince Tribute Night: Earl Jenkins

The Rickshaw Theatre is putting on a Prince Tribute Night on July 22nd. This will include 19 bands performing a song or two from Prince's repertoire. We had a nice chat with Earl Jenkins about his thoughts on the Artist Formally Known As Prince.

Hammer Records: What was the first song that your heard by Prince?

Earl: Let's Go Crazy

Hammer Records: How did Prince’s music influence yourself as a musician?

Earl: Prince was a core part of my musical menu when I was forming myself as musician. His talent, funkiness and sensuality have informed an central thread in my creativity, and his drive and independent spirit have been a great source of inspiration.

Hammer Records: Does Prince influence your current band?

Earl: Since I am a solo performer, and Singer/Songwriter, everything I do is all me, and Prince, as I said, has his little bits in my approach to every I do in music.

Hammer Records: Why did you choose this certain song(s) to perform by Prince?

Earl: As soon as I heard about the tribute, I signed up for Darling Nikki. No hesitation, that was the one I wanted to do more than anything else. It was a revolutionary song, sexy as hell, and is a great singer's song. Plus, I've never heard anyone do it with just acoustic guitar, and I wanted to give people some Prince like they'd never heard it before, distilled to its essence.

Hammer Records: With such a large diverse number of bands performing, are there any bands you are looking forward to seeing share the stage with you?

Earl: I can't wait to hear all of it. I love all these songs, and I love hearing what other people do with them.

Hammer Records: Where can people find your music? What are your social media links?

Earl: https://www.facebook.com/earljenkinsmusic/

http://www.jango.com/music/Earl+Jenkins
https://www.reverbnation.com/earlsjenkins
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsOxmPKnKd3IjwTQjCugu5A/videos

‘WU TANG SLANG’ ft. RZA LYRIC VIDEO REVEALED

Californian four-piece Faulkner have revealed their collaboration with Wu Tang Clan mastermind RZA on latest single ‘Wu Tang Slang’.

The track premiered with Consequence Of Sound who said, “Staten Island’s own RZA and Californian four-piece Faulkner; the two may come from different sides of the country and different genres entirely, but they both feel the powerful pull of NYC. So much so that they’ve collaborated on a new reworking of Faulkner’s “NY Anthem”… So enthralled with the hook was RZA, however, that he decided to turn the entire thing into a banging track worthy of the Wu. Featuring heavier rhythms and a complete altering of the lyrical structures, the “Wu Tang Slang” thumps loud with all the glory of the city it represents.”

‘Wu Tang Slang’ is a righteous hip-hop anthem with RZA’s unmistakable commanding tone leading alongside the high-rise choruses of Faulkner. RZA and Faulkner first started collaborating on ‘Wu Tang Slang’ while jamming in Bob Dylan’s parked tour bus at Rick Rubin’s Shangri La studio in Malibu, where artists such as Eminem and Adele have worked.

 
‘Wu Tang Slang’ is the latest song to be taken from the Revanchist EP, and follows the release of the highly praised electro-rock single ‘These Kids Nowadays’ and the trap-pop of ‘Revolutionary’. The EP was produced by RZA, alongside Mark Needham (The Killers, Imagine Dragons) and J.P. Bowersock (Julian Casablancas, Ryan Adams).

Faulkner consists of LA rockers Lucas Asher (vocals), Eric Scullin (vocals, synth), Dimitri Farougias (bass) and Christian Hogan (drums). They come with a swaggering attitude that’s brewing up a serious storm with their melting pot of synths, rock, hip hop and pop.

New Portals - "Stay Here Tonight"

Not afraid to try new things, New Portals have revealed their highly entertaining video for new single ‘Stay Here Tonight’. The video premiered with leading entertainment site Pretty 52 who called the song, “the perfect summer anthem for when you’re driving with the windows down with the sun on the dashboard.”
 
The ‘Stay Here Tonight’ comedy short sees the Belfast duo hosting an episode of a bad 80s TV Show. They watch as leading Irish comedians Colin Geddis and Shane Todd, impersonate them, donning an impeccable Blue Steel pout, and inventing synth chord positions never before imagined.

‘Stay Here Tonight’ sees New Portals take their dreamy synth-pop to the discotheque in a blissed out trip of revitalised nostalgia. The late-night charmer witnesses Ruth seduce with a hushed coo, among 90s rave stabs and groovy swathes of synths from Mike.
 
The single received its first spin from Phil Taggart on Radio 1, who has previously championed the band at the station with their previous singles alongside Huw Stephens. New Portals have also been touted as The Guardian’s ‘New Band Of The Week’ among a wealth of further praise for the irresistible alt-pop duo.
 
The fast-rising duo are one of the hottest tipped new artists breaking out from Ireland today. Their irresistible take on pop is one of the most intriguing and tantalising new sounds this year.

Old Man Canyon Premiere New Track ‘GOT YOU ON A RIDE'

Delirium has been an evolution in style and genre for Old Man Canyon, bringing new elements that are in-line with the goals of the live show. The album finds them phasing in vintage synths and more electronic instruments.  Beyond the 10 tracks on the album, ‘Got You on a Ride’ treats fans to brand new unreleased material.

Old Man Canyon kick off their headlining North American tour this week. The 15-date tour will take them to Winnipeg, Toronto, Boston, New York, Saskatoon and more. Tickets are now on sale here - see below for a full list of tour dates.

THE BUZZ
"It’s a marvellous reintroduction to Old Man Canyon, reinventing while keeping his sense of pop-accessibility that likely won over his fans in the first place." - Consequence of Sound  

"Delirium takes its listeners on an expansive and lush journey." - Baeble Music

ABOUT OLD MAN CANYON
Old Man Canyon, led by Vancouver native Jett Pace, emerged on the alternative scene in early 2012. The debut EP, Phantoms and Friends earned rave reviews from the likes of AudioTree, “Their authentic approach to musical creation puts poignant thoughts above contemporaries. The willingness to break folk rules contributes to this authenticity”. Their songs were featured in the MTV series Awkward, Showtime’s Shameless, Bravo’s Suits, ABC’s Pretty Little Liars, FX’s Sons of Anarchy and The CW’s The Flash. While Phantoms and Friends is rooted in a folk-pop sound, comparable to acts such as Chet Faker and Fleet Foxes, Delirium is an evolution in style and genre, bringing new elements that are in-line with the goals of the live show. Delirium finds Pace phasing in vintage synths and electric instruments. Delirium was released on January 15, 2016. 

WATCH ‘Back to the Start’:

TOUR DATES 
May 13 @ Gateway, CALGARY, AB
May 14 @ Exchange, REGINA, SK
May 15 @ Good Will, WINNIPEG, MB
May 17 @ 7th Street, MINNEAPOLIS, MN
May 19 @ Adelaide Hall, TORONTO, ON
May 20 @ Higher Ground, BURLINGTON, VT
May 21 @ Cafe 939, BOSTON, MA
May 23 @ Jammin Java, VIENNA, VA
May 24 @ Milk Boy, PHILADELPHIA, PA
May 25 @ Rockwood, NEW YORK CITY, NY
May 27 @ Pike Room, DETROIT, MI
May 28 @ Schubas, CHICAGO, IL
May 31 @ Frequency, MADISON, WI
Jun. 02 @ Amigo’s, SASKATOON, SK
Jul. 10 @ Phillips Backyard Weekender, VICTORIA, BC 

"Believe" by Kristen Karma ft. Kazz

“Believe” is the current single of now Toronto-based (previously Vancouver) artist, Kristen Karma. If that’s a name you think you recognize, you’re probably right! Kristen Karma had performed locally for numerous years, garnering success throughout Vancouver and gaining opportunities such as opening for DJ Lady Starlight at the official Lady Gaga Afterparty during the 2013 Born This Way Ball Tour,  before relocating to Toronto, Ontario to further her musical career. Karma also has a dedicated following online, world-wide. 

“Believe” is a heart-felt, positive, pop ballad. Written in connection to the Canadian Cancer Society, lyrically, this song has the ability to reach just about everyone, young and old, on an emotional level. Cancer is no stranger in the lives of many, and this song helps to bring about a positive outlook on a potentially sad situation. It teaches one to believe, and that standing together, there are no sad moments, simply just moments to remember and cherish forever.

Throughout the song, there are delicate harmonies and melodies placed strategically which keeps the song moving and the ear entertained. The addition of a feature vocalist (Toronto artist, Kazz), adds a lot of depth to the over all sound of the track, as does the addition of extra piano and string accompaniment by the talented, Kate Unrau.

The over all mix of the song, technically, was well done. The levels of the instrumentation paired well with that of Karma’s vocals. However, I wish I could have heard Kazz a little higher, or at least, clearer in the mix when it came to the additional background vocals and harmonies in the first minute and thirty seconds of the song. The latter half showcases that there are two separate voices much more clearly than the first half. When Kazz joined in for the feature vocal, you could hear clearly that he has a beautiful voice. One which carried the melodies of the song whimsically. Pairing Kristen Karma and Kazz together to create this acoustic rendition of “Believe” was a great choice. The song is strong messaged, beautifully written, and will touch the hearts of many.

To accompany the single for “Believe,” Kristen Karma released a music video, now with over 23,000 views on YouTube. The video was shot artfully, in black and white, focusing mainly around Karma in varying shots from singing to playing the piano, as well as features from Kazz and Kate Unrau. It also showcased a beautiful storyline in the b-roll of the video that I’ll let you watch for yourself.

The team behind the production of this single and music video did a really good job of capturing the essence of what Kristen Karma wrote. The credits are as follows:

Music and Lyrics: Kristen Karma

Vocals and additional lyrics: Kazz (FACEBOOK)

Strings and additional piano: Kate Unrau

Audio Engineer: Scotty Komer

Videographer: Deighton Goode

Make-up Artist: Ashley Fernandes

Executive Producers: Jordan (Xander) King, Kristen Karma, Scotty Komer

Production Company: The Kommunity Inc.

In Association With: The Canadian Cancer Society ( WEBSITE / FACEBOOK )

You can find this single on ITunes : Buy NOW on iTunes!

Watch the video on YouTube: "Believe" Music Video (Kristen Karma ft. Kazz)

Joseph Arthur - You Keep Hanging On

Joseph Arthur has such a classic voice. Like the kind of voice you would have heard at Woodstock. This video is just so organic. The simplicity of it and the depth of colour of that piano just makes seem so warm.

Joseph Arthur has released the video for his latest single ‘You Keep Hanging On’, taken from the forthcoming album The Family, which will be released through Real World Records on June 3^rd and available on vinyl in late June.

The video was premiered on Q and perfectly captures the dreamscape moods and beautiful melodies of the new album and sees Joseph in his creative element, at the hands of his recently acquired 1912 Steinway Vertegrande piano, which he wrote the whole of The Family on - a first for Joseph who for the most part writes songs from guitar, and who single-handedly took on vocals, drums, drum programming, pianos, guitars and synths for the recording of the new album.
 
The album was mixed by Tchad Blake, whose previous collaborations with Joseph include the well-loved songs ‘Honey and the Moon’ and ‘In The Sun’, the latter which has been covered by Michael Stipe and Peter Gabriel.
 
Originally discovered by Peter Gabriel, and subsequently signed to his Real World record label in 1997, Joseph quickly established a reputation as a formidable and creative talent with his experimental folk-rock style, diverse instrumentation and eclectic electronic production elements. An accomplished painter, he’s displayed his works in galleries around the world, and his online-only Museum of Modern Arthur (museumofmodernarthur.com) serves as a repository for his creations. He is also a prolific writer, principally of poetry but has also written a children's book.
 
With 20+ albums under his belt, Joseph is as known for his solo records as his collaborations with acclaimed performers including Lou Reed, Peter Gabriel, T-Bone Burnett, Dhani Harrison and Ben Harper of Fistful of Mercy and RNDM with Pearl Jam’s Jeff Ament.

Stealth - Judgement Day

Reminding me of Hozier, Sam Smith, and Bruno Mars all mixed together. Stealth puts such soul in each line he delivers. The video is artistically interesting and keeps you interested. Sia has almost coined the "modern dancing girl" in any video, so it just doesn't seem like an original idea when watching this video, but it really works with the song. Has to be watched in high definition though to really feel the video.

Check out the video and his Facebook page HERE.