Archives for the year 2011
November 30, 2011
Sun Domingo at le Petit Medley
American proggers Sun Domingo will be at the Petit Medley (6206, rue St-Hubert, Montreal • 514-271-7887) on Wednesday, December 7 2011 to present their "Between the Sun and the Moon" tour, performing two albums in their entirety. The first being their new studio album Songs For End Times followed by Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon! The opening act will be presented by Hunter Eves' new band Emorie.
Following their great pre-show performance for the Marillion Convention in Montreal last year and their current mini tour in the Netherlands, Sun Domingo will be bringing an extra holiday treat to their Montreal fans as they return to perform this fantastic show at Le Petit Medley!
The show will begin at 7:30 PM and tickets are $15, available through Ludy Event Management or at the Petit Medley boxoffice.
August 21, 2011
Malajube at the Metropolis
Indie rock band Malajube will be at the Metropolis (59 Ste. Catherine Street East • 514-844-3500) on Wednesday, December 14 2011 with opening act The Besnard Lakes.
The show will begin at 8:30 PM and tickets are $27.00 to $29.95, available through Ticketmaster and at the Metropolis boxoffice.
October 15, 2011
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
Alan Reed - Dancing With Ghosts:
Alan Reed, ex-lead singer of Pallas, is about to release his first venture as a solo artist. Entitled Dancing with Ghosts, this EP includes acoustic arrangements of songs covering both his past and present. There are a couple of Pallas songs, an Abel Ganz track, and two new compositions which will turn up in quite different form on his forthcoming full-lenght solo album. Beautiful acoustic guitar and piano arrangements combined with Alan's elegant songwriting makes for a captivating first solo work, and features Mark Spencer on keyboards and sitar, Jennifer Clark on double bass and acoustic bass guitar, and Scott Higham on percussion. The EP (which costs £5.00) will be out on November 7th from www.themerchdesk.com as well as the usual specialist retailers and on-line providers.
Glass Hammer - Cor Gordium:
Cor Cordium is Glass Hammer’s 2011 follow-up to last year's highly acclaimed IF, an album which found its place in numerous Top 10 and Best of 2010 lists throughout the prog world. To keep the momentum going from last year’s success, singer Jon Davison and guitarist Alan Shikoh return with Glass Hammer co-founders Steve Babb and Fred Schendel to create the band’s fourteenth studio album.
“We never set out to make IF Volume 2,” reveals Babb. “But we are definitely heading in the same direction musically. Fans that loved IF are going to be equally excited about Cor Cordium."
Featuring six tracks, including the highly addictive Salvation Station, the epic-length To Someone and the climactic She, A Lonely Tower; art work and a 16 page full-color layout by artist Tom Kuhn and audiophile mastering by Bob Katz of Digital Domain. The lineup includes Fred Schendel on keyboards, steel guitar, backing vocals, Steve Babb on bass guitar, keyboards, backing vocals, Jon Davison on lead vocals, acoustic guitars and Alan Shikoh on guitars (electric and acoustic) and sitar. The album will be avaliable through Glass Hammer's online store.
Transatlantic - More Never Is Enough:
A brand new offering from prog supergroup Transatlantic, this mind-blowing box set of 3 CDs and two DVDs will be available on October 25 and will feature live music captured during their 2010 European tour. This release will include the 3+ hour Tilburg show on 2 DVD's (with the Return of the Giant Hogweed encore) and the audio from the entire Manchester show on 3 CD's. More Never Is Enough will be available directly from Radiant Record.
ExCubus - LaGauchetière:
The second release of 1970's era compositions from Incubus, one of Québec's earliest prog groups who recently changed name to ExCubus. Lagauchetière shows ExCubus broadening their compositional palette and sound since the release of Mémoires incubussiennes in 2008. While the album includes compositions dating back to the group's first lineup, it also showcases pieces written by band members during their participation in subsequent progressive bands such as Coenobium, Igor and Polygone. The sound of the band is edgier and more energetic, while retaining the harmonies and melodies introduced with their first effort. The result is an excellent album of broader compositional styles melding into a cohesive whole and proof demonstrating these musicians' continued evolution on Québec's progressive scene. Available through ProgQuébec's online store, as well as all good local record stores including Archambault and Freeson!
November 21, 2011
Spock's Beard announces new lineup!
The latest news, taken from the Spock's Beard website:
"Announcing....Spock’s Beard has a new recording and touring lineup!
To keep bringing you the finest Prog Rock, we’ve brought on board the amazing vocalist/guitarist Ted Leonard (Enchant, Thought Chamber) and Jimmy Keegan (Santana, John Waite), who’s been our tour drummer for close to 10 years now. If you know these guys, you know they’re world class. They bring exciting new energy and creativity to the party.
We regret that Nick D’Virgilio, a founding member of the band, good friend and incredible talent is unable to continue with us due to his other commitments. Please continue to support him, check out his new solo CD “Pieces,” go see him with Cirque du Soleil and follow whatever other madness he's up to. He’s awesome. We wish him the best of luck and the success he deserves. We wouldn’t be here without NDV!
Look for a new live Spock’s Beard DVD and extensive European tour in early 2012, followed by our 11th studio release sometime in the summer. We’re energized and excited, and will be posting updates and sound samples as we progress.
Thank you for continuing to support us through the years and changes. We stay committed to bringing you the finest in Prog Rock and taking it into the future.
More info and pics at SpocksBeard.com
If you don't already, please follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest!"
November 18, 2011
Nick D'Virgilio leaves Spock's Beard
It is with much sadness that I learned of this news, but as they say, all god things must come to an end. Here's the official news release from Nick D'Virgilio:
"The time has come.
It is very hard for me to write this, but as all good things come to an end at sometime or another, unfortunately I have to tell you all that my time with Spock’s Beard has come to a close.
As you may or may not know, for almost 2 years now I have been working for Cirque Du Soleil on the touring show TOTEM. Traveling a bit of the globe with my family on an adventure that has been great, but also very tough. Great because I am finally able to fully support my family with this very unstable life I chose as a musician, but also very tough because this job has made it hard to do other things and the main thing is Spock’s Beard.
For the first time in 20 years I had to miss shows when the band played a few festivals this past summer. Needless to say it was very, very strange not being there. I have been trying to land a permanent resident show for next year which would leave me a little more time to tour with Spock’s Beard but that has not happened yet and I don’t know when exactly that will happen. I recently signed for another year with Cirque because I cannot just get up and quit until something else can takes its place. I am sure you all understand that I have to take care of my main responsibility and that is my family. Spock’s Beard has never been the main money maker for me, or any of the other guys in the band. We have always had to do other things to supplement our incomes and for me now the other thing just happens to be Cirque.
The Spock’s guys want to keep moving forward and it is just Murphy’s Law for Spock’s Beard that everyone else is totally available to tour at the moment and I am not. For many years, I was available for anything but we couldn’t tour as much as we wanted because of other schedules. Now with my job it doesn’t look like I am going to be available anytime soon. I totally understand where the guys are coming from, wanting to tour and make new albums and I have too much respect for them and Spock’s Beard to say that they cannot keep going without me. The guys are eager to keep the ball rolling, and as hard as that is to imagine without me I give them my blessing fully and wish them nothing but the best in whatever they do.
I have had the best time and have made some of the best music of my career with Dave, Al, Ryo, and Neal and will take those memories with me for the rest of my life.
This is not to say that I will never play with the guys again. If all of the stars align in future and I can do something I surely will but for now the guys will be going on without me and I humbly ask all of you Spock’s Beard fans that have been nothing short of amazing, to keep the flame burning for them.
SO for my future, even with the crazy schedule of my Cirque job I have still been able to release a new solo EP “PIECES” recently and even did some solo shows. Those things are easier for me to do because I can do those within the areas that I am living at the time and I am planning on many more solo gigs in the future so keep an eye and ear out for those announcements. I will be going back to London at the beginning of 2012 with Cirque and during that time I will be able to get back down to Rob Aubrey’s studio to do some more sessions with the great BIG BIG TRAIN and even try and finish a project that got started a number of years ago now called “PULSE” with Mike Holmes of IQ fame. I am also writing a lot for more solo music of my own.
Thank you to my family. Your support has been my rock for many years now, I know that will always be there and I am so thankful for that.
Thank you to all of the great guys who have crewed for Spock’s Beard over the years and have gone way beyond the call of duty to get us on and off stage. Especially Rob, Olly, and Tommy. I will for sure miss touring with you guys.
Thank you to the promoters and venues that have opened up their stages to us.
Thank you Jimmy Keegan for holding down the fort while I was up front and kickin ass for Spock’s Beard over the years.
Thank you to all of my amazing endorsement companies.
In closing, THANK YOU to all of the Spock’s Beard fans out there who have given us so much amazing and heart felt support over the years. We could not have done it without you all. It has been an amazing journey for me and I will never ever forget the great times we have shared together.
It’s time for a change."
Nick D'Virgilio, Friday, November 18, 2011
November 4, 2011
Mastodon at Metropolis
Atlanta-based Heavy Metal band Mastodon will be at the Metropolis (59 Ste-Catherine Street East, Montreal • 514-844-3500) on Wednesday, November 23 2011, accompanied by The Dillinger Escape Plan and Red Fang.
The show will begin at 7:30 PM and tickets are $28.50/$33.05, available through Ticketmaster and at the Metropolis boxoffice.
October 23, 2011
Premier Ciel in Laval
Harmonium tribute band Premier Ciel will be in Laval on Friday, November 25 2011 at Théâtre Marcellin-Champagnat (275 rue Laval, Laval • 450-661-4862) for a full-band show. They will also be in L'Assomption on Thursday, February 16, 2012 at the Théâtre Hector Charland (225, boulevard de L'Ange-Gardien, L'Assomption • 450-589-9198) also for an all-out show!
Seven musicians share the pleasure of playing the music of Harmonium. Proud to be the only official tribute authorized by Serge Fiori himself, the band invites you to celebrate one of the most achieved masterpieces of Québécois music.
The band is composed of Mathieu Grégoire on lead vocals, guitars and flute, Sébastien Cloutier on guitars and vocals, Richard Lanthier on bass, moog Taurus and vocals, Michel Dubeau on wind instruments, Julie Valois on vocals, Fender Rhodes, keyboards and accordion, Guillaume Marchand on keyboards and vocals and Bob St-Laurent on drums, guitar, mandolin and vocals.
Tickets for the Laval show are $50, available through Admission or at the Théâtre Marcellin-Champagnat boxoffice. The show will begin at 8:00 PM.
Tickets for the L'Assomption show are $30 /$37, available through Admission or at the Théâtre Hector-Charland boxoffice. The show will begin at 8:00 PM.
July 31, 2011
Judas Priest at the Bell Center
Metal legends Judas Priest will be at the Bell Center on Thursday, November 24 2011, accompanied by Black Label Society and Thin Lizzy. A rockin' evening to be expected! Doors open at 5:00 PM and the show will begin at 6:00, tickets are $63 and $78, available right now through Evenko.ca.
November 18, 2011
Slippermen at Il Motore
ProgMontréal is proud to present Genesis tribute band Slippermen at the Il Motore (179 Jean-Talon West (corner of Waverly) this Saturday, November 19 2011.
This show will cover the entire 70's decade of Genesis Music, including some old favorites and some new songs, and for the first time, will feature songs from all albums from Nursery Cryme all the way to Duke. Expect well over 2 hours of music! An evening not to be missed! The lineup will be composed of Marc Lafontaine on keyboards, Réjean Arsenault on guitars, Nick Beaudoin on drums, François Fournier on bass, and Marc Léveillé on vocals. There will be cool prog prizes drawn during the intermission.
The show will begin at 9:00 PM and tickets are $15 at the door on the day of the show.
November 13, 2011
Steven Wilson at the Corona
Steven Wilson, the brilliant vocalist/guitarist/writer of Porcupine Tree will be in Montreal this Tuesday, November 15 2011 at the Théâtre Corona (2490 Notre-Dame Street West, Montreal • 514-931-2088) to present his latest solo project, Grace For Drowning.
Steven Wilson is a twice Grammy-nominated producer, writer and performer. He has also produced and/or mixed albums for artists as diverse as Swedish metal band Opeth, and prog rock institutions King Crimson and Jethro Tull.
The new double-CD Grace for Drowning, available since September, is the second album released by Wilson under his name, and builds the artistic inroads he forged with 2009's exceptionally well-received Insurgentes.
The show will begin at 8:00 and tickets are $37/$42, available through the Corona's website and through Evenko.
October 14, 2011
Close to the Edge at Calistoga Grill
Montreal's ultimate Yes tribute band, Close to the Edge, will be at the Calistoga Grill (Plaza Pointe-Claire, corner of Donegani & Maywood • 514-630-7577) on Saturday, November 12 2011 at 9:00 PM. Admission is $15.
Close to the Edge is composed of Clément Larose on guitars, Charles Fortin on lead vocals, Richard Lanthier on bass, Simon Mercure on keys and vocals and Pierre Dragon on drums.
October 3, 2011
Anderson-Wakeman at Théâtre St-Denis contest winner
Jon Anderson, former lead singer of Yes, will embark on a tour with his old bandmate Rick Wakeman and will stop by the Théâtre St-Denis (1594, rue Saint-Denis • 514-849-4211) on Saturday, November 12, 2011.
The two veterans of progressive rock will offer an intimate evening of music, part of their Project 360 tour across the USA and Canada, where they will perform music from their individual vast solo catalog, as well as selections from their latest project The Living Tree and of course, fan favorites of Yes.
And we have a contest winner for the pair of tickets to the November 12 show at théâtre St-Denis, Congratulations to Martin Yvon of St-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Thanks again to Evenko for this excellent prize!
The concert will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets cost $72 / $67 / $57 available through TicketPro and at the Théâtre St-Denis boxoffice. An Evenko presentation.
November 4, 2011
Echoes at Club Soda
Pink Floyd tribute band Echoes will be at the Club Soda (1225 St-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Friday November 11 2011 at 9:00 PM.
The origins of the tribute band Echoes goes back to the winter of 2005 as five music students from Cégep Lionel-Groulx decided to present a show that incorporated the album Animals by Pink Floyd in its entirety as their end-of-session project. The chemistry was immediately evident since all the members were avid Pink Floyd fans. The experience being a resounding success, the guys decided to form Echoes featuring four of the five founding members, with a new keyboardist and adding two back vocals singers and a saxophonist.
Since the summer of 2006, Echoes has refined a concert that features over three hours of the greatest fan favorites of Pink Floyd, covering all eras, from the psychedelic to the more popular chart-toppers.
Admission cost is $10 at the door, or you can see this show for free if you subscribe to the Club Soda's Club Hommage.
October 1st, 2011
Eclipse-The Pink Floyd Story at the Olympia
Quebec's Eclipse-The Pink Floyd Story tribute band will be touring throughout Quebec and Ontario this November, and will make a stop at the Olympia (1004 Ste-Catherine East, Montreal • 514-845-3524) on Wednesday, November 9 2011 at 8:00 PM.
They will also be at the Théâtre du Palais in Ville de Saguenay on November 2, at the Casino du Lac-Leamy in Gatineau on November 3 and 4, Le Pavillon de la Jeunesse in Quebec City on November 10 and at the Centre Culturel in Sherbrooke on November 11.
After twenty years of touring Québec and Ontario, The band refined their show and earned a solid reputation across North America almost by word of mouth alone. Their rave reviews have made them one of the most successful and sought-after Pink Floyd tribute bands ever to emerge from Quebec.
The band is composed of Peter Grant on lead vocals and lead guitar, Chaz Butcher on bass, acoustic guitar and vocals, Chris De Zordo on keyboards and vocals, Dan Legault on drums, Yannick Coderre on sax and guitar, and finally Stéphanie Laliberté, Catherine Granger and Lauren Mulligan on back vocals.
Now armed with a spectacular light show including a large round screen, videos and moving lights, Eclipse is unequivocally one of the top Pink Floyd acts around.
Tickets for the Montreal show are $45.57 / $51.27 / $68.36, available through Admission and at the Olympia boxoffice.
October 27, 2011
Lazarus Heart in Shawinigan
Sting/Police tribute band Lazarus Heart will visit Centre Montfort (1805 Rang St-Mathieu Est, Shawinigan-Sud • 819-537-0101) on Friday, November 4 2011. The band is composed of Sylvain Auclair on vocals, bass and fretless bass, Thomas Brodeur on drums, Guillaume Larouche on sax, Simon L'Espérance on guitars, and Dominique Poirier on trombone. They will play classics from the famous british trio as well as material from Sting's illustrious solo career. Tickets are $25, available at the Centre Montfort Boxoffice. The show will begin around 8:00 PM.
January 30, 2011
Roger Hodgson & band at Place des Arts
Second show added!
One of Montreal's favorite, former Supertramp member Roger Hodgson will be back on Friday, October 28, 2011 and Saturday, October 29 2011 at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier (175 Ste-Catherine Street West • 514-842-2112), and this time, with his whole band!
Following hugely successful tours in South America and Europe in 2010, as well as 4 sold out nights at Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier in 2009, Roger Hodgson returns to Montreal with his band to perform his greatest Supertramp hits and a selection of songs from his solo albums.
Roger Hodgson, the man who wrote and sang the enduring rock standards that made Supertramp famous (The Logical Song, Breakfast in America, Give a Little Bit, Take the Long Way Home. It’s Raining Again, School, Dreamer and Fool’s Overture to name a few) spoke about his concerts while recording his first album in ten years called Classics Live, a stunning collection of his best-loved songs captured live during his 2010 world tour.
"...music is the language of the soul and it was felt by all. The fans’ appreciation and love for my music, combined with my joy in serenading them is what creates magic,” said Hodgson.
All composed by Roger, these classics earned Supertramp worldwide distinction among rock bands in the 70’s and 80’s and a place in Montrealers’ hearts as one of the city’s most-loved groups. Montreal's love for Roger was evident in the electrifying show filmed here in 2006 for Roger's DVD, as well as his triumphant return in 2009.
The shows will begin at 8:00 and tickets are on sale online at www.pda.qc.ca or by phone at 514-842-2112 or 1-866-842-2112 and cost $50, $75 and $150 for VIP Package including a seat in first 5 rows, sound check and autographed CD (all tickets + taxes and fees).
August 20, 2011
Australian Pink Floyd show back at the Bell Center
The Australian Pink Floyd show, Floyd's best known tribute band, will be back once again in Montreal on Friday, October 28 2011 at the Bell Center Theatre (1260 De La Gauchetière West) to present their new show, Pink Floyd's Greatest Hits World Tour 2011, with the music from Wish You Were Here, Animals, Dark Side of the Moon & The Wall and this year, featuring a stunning 3D second act (with 3D glasses provided).
The biggest and most spectacular Pink Floyd Show on the planet! Critically acclaimed, the Jaw dropping performances have taken the world by storm, an outstanding tribute to Pink Floyd, which will blow your mind! The show is a phenomenon! What started out in 1988 in Adelaide, Australia, has evolved into a truly magnificent sound and light spectacle with over 3 million tickets sold worldwide!
These Aussie kindred spirits have amassed a dedicated crew of over twenty like-minded obsessives, all addicted to the gloriously pioneering psychedelia of Gilmour, Waters, Barrett, Wright, and Mason. Together they travel the planet putting on this spellbinding re-creation of the cream of the Pink Floyd catalogue, fulfilling the desire of Floyd fans everywhere who crave to hear these amazing songs performed live once again.
It’s a tantalizing voyage, from the trippy Barrett era to the mystery of Dark Side of The Moon, from the majesty of Wish You Were Here to the twisted intensity of Animals, from the relentless power of The Wall through to the lush grandeur of The Final Cut and The Division Bell. Floyd fans who haven’t yet witnessed the show are seriously missing out. Believe the hype, it’s as good as everyone says. Here are some reviews: "The best tribute show in the world" – London Times "I never thought I would hear this music live again, you must go and see this show" – Los Angeles Times.
The show begins at 8:00 PM and tickets are $57 plus taxes and fees, available at Evenko.ca.
October 14, 2011
Clément Larose's Power Trio at L'Absynthe
Clément Larose's Power Trio will be playing at L'Absynthe (1738 St-Denis Street, corner Ontario • 514-285-1738) on Saturday, October 22 2011 at 9:30 PM. Admission is $5. The Clément Larose Power Trio is composed of Simon Langlois, Charles Fortin and Clément Larose, don't miss this great evening of unique, intelligent music.
October 1st, 2011
Caroline Glass band at Le Divan Orange
Montreal bands A Devil's Din and Caroline Glass Band will be at Le Divan Orange (4234 St-Laurent • 514-840-9090) on Saturday, October 15 2011, for the launch of Devil's Din's latest CD, One Day, All This Will Be Yours, accompanied by Sweet Mother Logic. An evening of brilliant post psych/musique nouvelle not to be missed.
The show will begin at 8:30 PM and tickets are $6 in advance, available at Cheap Thrills, Sound Central and Atom Heart ($8 at the door on the day of the show). An IndieMontreal/Boréale presentation.
July 31, 2011
Yngwie Malmsteen at Club Soda
Swedish monster metal guitarist Yngwie Johann Malmsteen will be at the Club Soda (1225 Saint-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Tuesday, October 18 2011, accompanied by guests to be announced soon. The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are available right now for $30.72/$35.10 at the Club Soda boxoffice and through the Club Soda website.
October 1st, 2011
Curism & Néodyme at le Petit Medley
Montreal band Curism will be at Le Petit Medley (6206 St-Hubert • 514-271-7887) on Friday, October 14 2011, for the launch of Curism's latest CD, Under The Fall, accompanied by Néodyme.
The show will begin at 8:30 PM and tickets are $15 at the door on the day of the show.
July 14, 2011
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
John Orr Franklin - Lighthouse:
Texas-based guitarist John Orr Franklin presents his latest album, entitled Lighthouse. The music of the John Orr Franklin Band is a mix of progressive and album oriented rock with a broad range of styles and influences. The band is currently supporting two all original CD’s released by John Orr Franklin, entitled Pathways (2007) and Transformation (2009). John will also release another album this November, entitled Soldier On, a long-anticipated daring concept album two years in the works which will feature guest musician Gavin Harrison of Porcupine Tree. Lighthouse is available through Bandcamp in digital download format.
Red Sand - Behind The Mask:
Quebec proggers Red Sand will release their next album, entitled Behind The Mask this October. The new CD will be released just as the band will be opening for canadian band Saga at le Cabaret du Capitole this fall. This limited-edition concept album will feature a 20-minute epic and will be available for presale through Red Sand's online store.
Martin Levac - A Visible Jazz Touch of... Genesis:
Perhaps best known as a member of the Musical Box for years, drummer/vocalist Martin Levac presents his new solo album entitled A Visible Jazz Touch of Genesis. This album reinterprets 11 classic Genesis songs with just a dash of jazz. The resulting music is charming and breezy. The album is available through his website's online store.
P.Y. Marani - Outline:
French guitarist Pierre-Yves Marani has just released his brand new instrumental prog CD entitled Outline, which features Derek Sherinian as guest musician. Captivating and energetic, his compositions will hook you solidly! Listen to some complete songs as well as a teaser of the entire CD on his MySpace page. The album Outline is available through P.Y's online store.
July 14, 2011
New ProgQuébec releases
Lots of new material coming on the ProgQuébec record label, including a new complete reissue of Offenbach's Tabarnak as well as exclusive distribution of many of André Duchesne's excrellent solo albums.
André Duchesne - Le Temps des Bombes:
First released on vinyl in 1984, Le Temps des Bombes was André Duchesne's first solo album post-Conventum, and was reissued on CD in 1996. A cult album featuring former band-mates Rene Lussier on guitar and Bernard Cormier on violin as well as a host of other musicians, the music very much embodies the feel of his folk and chamber ensemble Conventum. The eight songs up to six-minutes in length are progressive avant-folk rock numbers with a solid rhythm section, warped electric guitar lines, and irregular time signatures with lyrics full of plays on words. Le Temps des Bombes contains the strange beauty of Conventum's melodies plus a new angular rock sound that would become the basis of Duchesne's future projects. Highly recommended for Conventum fans ! Coming soon through ProgQuébec.
André Duchesne - Locomotive:
Released in 1993, Locomotive is the pinnacle of André Duchesne's discography. Featuring three guitarists (Duchesne, Claude Fradette and Francis Grandmont) plus drums, the album`s contrapuntal riffs are intertwined over avant-prog rhythmic patterns delivered by Miriodor drummer Rémi Leclerc. The music races at the speed of a locomotive, one track after another of rock songs influenced by the likes of Robert Fripp and delivered with surgical precision. Six of the 13 tracks have vocals, and range from the frenetic to emotional ballads. Very strongly recommended for fans of Conventum, Miriodor and any avant-prog music, Locomotive is one of the best rock album ever from Quebec! Coming soon through ProgQuébec.
André Duchesne - World Tour 1998, Les 4 Guitaristes de l'Apocalypso Bar:
Les 4 Guitaristes de l'Apocalypso-Bar was an electric guitar quartet (plus drums), featuring André Duchesne, René Lussier and Jean-Pierre Bouchard, all three members of Conventum, plus Roger Boudreault. The band received international attention thanks to the presence of ex-Henry Cow drummer Chris Cutler. Two albums were released: Tournée Mondiale/Été '89 in 1987 and Fin de Siècle in 1989 which were reissued on CD in 1995 under the title World Tour 1998 (the dates are willingly misleading as this was a band from the future). Claude Fradette and young Miriodor drummer Rémi Leclerc also appear on the second album. The music is a series of contrapuntal avant-prog pieces for guitar quartet, containing a cross between Robert Fripp's circular motifs and Fred Frith's angular playing. Recommended for fans of Conventum, Miriodor, Henry Cow, Robert Fripp, Fred Frith, Lars Hollmer and the likes. Coming soon through ProgQuébec.
Offenbach - Tabarnak:
Offenbach's long anticipated album is now finally available on CD, in full, for the first time ever! Recorded in 1974 while the band toured France and Holland, the original double album heralds a group who unleashes their musical thunder onstage. Original versions of classics such as Promenade sur Mars, Québec Rock, Ma Patrie est à terre, Habitant d'chien blanc, and Hymne à l'amour (the last one being completely different from later live versions), rock alongside inspired jams and some of the band's most progressive tracks ever, such as Éther, Maryline, and Quoi quoi. And as an added bonus, we're treated to over 30 minutes of unreleased live recordings from the same tour, including versions of Moody Calvaire Moody and Rirolarma. Celebrate the release of the film Gerry with your copy of the album which firmly planted the band on the map! A double CD release with over 120 minutes of music in total. Available right now through ProgQuébec as well as all good record stores.
August 5, 2011
Dream Theater at Place des Arts
Dream Theater will be in Montreal at the salle Wilfrid-Pelletier of the Place Des Arts on Friday, October 7 2011, accompanied by Floridian metal band Trivium.
Dream Theater will present their latest album, A Dramatic Turn of Events, on September 13th. This new CD marks the recording debut of new drummer Mike Mangini, which fans are clamoring to hear. Roadrunner Records will issue the release in multiple versions that will be sure to delight the band's fans.
The band is planning to embark on a massive world tour, where they will play selections from A Dramatic Turn of Events, as well as classic, staples and fan favorites. Labelmates Trivium will support on most dates supporting their new album In Waves.
"We are all very pumped about the release of A Dramatic Turn of Events this September as well as the world tour we'll embark upon in support of the album," said Petrucci. "Our first leg will bring us throughout North America where we'll showcase songs from the new album along with tons of fan favorites and a brand new tour production unlike any other that we've done before. We're equally excited to have our friends in Trivium join us as well. It's sure to be an incredible tour. We're looking forward to seeing all of our friends on the road this fall!"
Tickets are on sale right now, and cost $40.96 / $71.68, available through the PDA website and at the Place des Arts boxoffice.
September 27, 2011
Excubus in St-Jean Sur Richelieu:
Launch of new album "LaGauchetière"
Classic Quebec prog band ExCubus will be back onstage for the launch of their brand new CD Lagauchetière, on Friday, September 30 and Saturday, October 1st 2011 at the Cabaret Théâtre du Vieux-St-Jean (190 Laurier street, St-Jean-sur-Richelieu).
Formed in 1970, this mythical band that shared the stage with the likes of Mashmakan, Cactus, Offenbach and April Wine, entered the studios in France in 1974 to record their first album, which was unfortunately never completed, the band having dissolved in the mean time. But 33 years later, the group finally reunited to complete their work, and Mémoires Incubussiennes was released on the ProgQuébec label in 2008.
Tickets are available in advance through SPEC (75 Foch Street, St-Jean-sur-Richelieu) or by phone at 450-358-3949 (toll free 1-888-443-9349) info@spec.qc.ca or at the Cabaret Théâtre du Vieux-St-Jean boxoffice on the day of the show. The new CD sill be available at the venue for $20.
October 3, 2011
The Watch in Montreal at Théâtre Plaza!
Italian prog band The Watch will be at the Théâtre Plaza (6505 Rue Saint Hubert, Montreal • 514-278-6419) on Saturday October 8, 2011 to present their "Green show".
The Watch presents a brand new concert that was performed in Europe several times in France, Germany, England, Poland and Italy that concentrates on the legendary Genesis album Selling England By The Pound. In addition to the this mythical album, the band will present classic tracks such as Supper’s Ready, Watcher of the Skies and The Musical Box as well as compositions from their own renowned discography.
The show was originally scheduled to be held at The National, of course, all tickets for the National will be honored at the Théatre Plaza. Tickets are $38, available at the théâtre Plaza boxoffice and through Admission. A Spectour production.
September 27, 2011
Adrian Belew Power Trio with Stick Men
Two amazing prog trios in one night! On Sunday October 2 2011 at the Corona Theatre (2490 Notre-Dame West, Montreal • 514-931-2088), don't miss Stick Men, featuring Pat Mastelotto, Markus Reuter and Tony Levin, and the Adrian Belew Power Trio, featuring Adrian Belew, Julie Slick, and Tobias Ralph.
The evening will feature music from both bands, as well as an extended Crimson-centric encore featuring Pat, Adrian and Tony. The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $35, on sale right now through Admission.
July 2, 2011
Saga at the Gesù, with Michael Sadler on vocals!
FMPM and Get It Promotions are pleased to announce the return of Juno Award winning progressive rock legends Saga, Saturday October 1st 2011 at the Gesù (1200 de Bleury Street, Montreal). One of the most enduring bands in Canadian history, original members Ian Crichton (guitars), Jim Crichton (bass), Michael Sadler (back on vocals) and Jim Gilmour (keyboards), will be joined by drummer Brian Doerner (ex-Helix since 2005). Montreal progressive fusion band Karcius will perform as the opening act. The group will also play at the Cabaret du Capitole in Quebec City on Sunday, October 2 2011 with opening band Red Sand.
Formed in 1977, Saga's unique style of commercially accessible progressive rock has earned them a devoted international fan-base. Their twenty studio releases include gold records such as Worlds Apart and Heads or Tails which spawned such hits as On the Loose and Scratching the Surface, selling over 8 million copies. Recently acclaimed albums include Trust (2006), 10,000 Days (2007) and The Human Condition (2009), revealing a group that is still at the peak of creativity and at the top of its game in terms of musicianship. Saga is currently in the studio recording a new album.
Don’t miss one of Canada’s most exciting live acts! www.sagaontour.ca
TICKETS: Reserved seats for Saga on sale at the Gesù (514-861-4036) or at www.admission.com (1-800-361-4595), for $49.50 + fees and taxes.
August 13, 2011
Aristocrats featuring Guthrie Govan at Club Soda
The Aristocrats will be in Montreal at the Club Soda (1225 Saint-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Monday, October 3 2011.
Three of the most accomplished virtuosos in the world in the genre of rock-fusion instrumental, The Aristocrats was formed shortly after January, 2011 after guitar sensation Guthrie Govan , drum phenom Marco Minnemann, and bassist extraordinaire Bryan Beller got together to do an impromptu Bass Bash event during NAMM.
The three musicians hit it off so well in terms of musical interplay and chemistry that they immediately said after the show that they need to do this again. That talk evolved into making a debut album and the new fledgling supergroup went into the studio in Chicago in late-April to record the album which will be released on September 13, 2011.
The show will begin at 8:30 PM (doors at 7:30 PM) and tickets are $30 in advance or $35 on the day of the show, available through the Club Soda website or at the Club Soda boxoffice.
September 22, 2011
Saga at Théâtre Hector Charland in l'Assomption!
Since their performance in Montreal is nearly sold out, here's your opportunity to catch legendary canadian prog band Saga on Wednesday, September 28 2011 at the Théâtre Hector Charland (225, boulevard de L'Ange-Gardien, L'Assomption • 450-589-9198) featuring original members Ian Crichton (guitars), Jim Crichton (bass), Michael Sadler (back on vocals) and Jim Gilmour (keyboards), joined by drummer Brian Doerner (ex-Helix since 2005). Montreal progressive band Jelly Fiche will perform as the opening act.
And thanks to the Théâtre Hector Charland in association with ProgMontréal, five people won a pair of tickets to this show:
Éric Poulin of Valleyfield
André Bazinet of Montréal
Nicolas Beaudoin of Longueuil
Jocelyn Beaudry of Montréal
Gino Perrotti of St-Léonard
Congratulations to the winners!
The concert will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets cost $44.50 available through Admission and at the Théâtre Hector Charland boxoffice.
Don’t miss one of Canada’s most exciting live acts! www.sagaontour.ca
May 12, 2011
Roger Daltrey performs Tommy at Place des Arts
Roger Daltrey, the iconic lead singer of The Who, will perform The Who's legendary rock opera Tommy from start to finish at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier of the Place des Arts on Tuesday, September 27, 2011. The Who never actually played the complete Tommy. Their 1989 tour ommitted the tracks Underture and Welcome. Daltrey premiered the show at The Royal Albert Hall in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust on March 25 and is now taking it on the road.
Employing striking visuals to accompany the music, the show will be an unforgettable experience for lifelong fans and newcomers alike, who will be treated not only to the full majesty of Tommy, but also to a variety of Who Classics and more.
Joining Daltrey on the road will be Frank Simes (guitar), Scott Deavours (drums), Jon Button (Bass), Loren Gold (Keyboards) and also on guitar will be Simon Townshend, younger brother of The Who's guitarist Pete Townshend.
Commenting on the tour, Pete Townshend says "Great to see Roger performing Tommy with his band in 2011. I will be there in spirit and Roger has my complete and most loving support. Roger is touring his unique concert version of Tommy using his faithful presentation of the original work as the backbone for a set of wider material. It is wonderful to hear the way Roger and his new band re-interpret the old Who songs"
Tickets are $37.45 through $112.50, and are available at the Place Des Arts boxoffice and online at www.pda.qc.ca.
August 21, 2011
Mikey Heppner does Zappa and Mahogany Frog
at PopMontréal Festival
Mikey Heppner, lead guitarist of Priestess) will be part of the PopMontreal Festival lineup and will play on Friday, September 23 2011 at Cinéma L'Amour (4015 St-Laurent, Montreal), paying tribute to Frank Zappa. Mikey will be accompanied by none other than Winnipeg's formidable avant prog quartet Mahogany Frog for one hell of a double bill!
Here's Mikey describing the show: "I am a total Zappa freak and have been one since I was in high school. After cutting my teeth at home recording with the Uncle Bad Touch record (and a few other local bands), I took some spare time to start self recording Zappa covers for fun and to share with my friends. It quickly became an album's worth of songs, so I made the decision to compile them and throw a release party, and perform them with a band. I couldn't imagine a better excuse for this type of show to take place than under the Pop Montreal banner, my newly formed Zappa cover band and I couldn't be more excited for it! This just might be a one shot deal folks, so if you like Zappa or are just curious to see how a bunch of local goofs are gonna pull this off, you gotta come check it out! Opening the night are Mahogany Frog from Winnipeg, and they're going to prog-rock your faces off. Hope to see you there." Mikey Heppner
The show will begin at 11 PM and tickets are $12 ($15 on the day of the show) available through the PopMontréal website.
July 14, 2011
April Wine at the Metropolis
Montreal's pride, April Wine will be at the Metropolis (59 Ste. Catherine Street East • 514-844-3500) on Friday, September 23 2011!
The legendary hall-of-fame canadian rock band features Miles Goodwyn on vocals and guitars, Brian Greenway on guitars and vocals, Blair Mackay on drums and for his first show on home soil, the band's brand new bassist, our good friend Richard Lanthier (of CTTE and Premier Ciel).
The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $39.50, available through Ticketmaster.
July 31, 2011
Evergrey at Foufounes
Swedish prog metal band Evergrey will be at the Foufounes Électriques (87, rue Ste-Catherine Est, Montréal • 844-5539) on Wednesday, September 21 2011, accompanied by Sabaton, Powerglove and The Absence. The show will begin at 7:00 PM and tickets are available right now for $20/$25 and VIP $55 through Admission.
July 2, 2011
Moody Blues at the Théâtre St-Denis
Legendary band The Moody Blues will be in Montreal on Monday September 19 2011 at the Théâtre St-Denis (1594 St-Denis, Montreal • 514-849-4211).
The band will embark on a Cross-Canadian "Precious Cargo" Fall Tour in support of their new upcoming greatest hits collection which will be released on July 19, as part of their highly successful Icon series.
The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $80.25, $68.25, $55.25, available through TicketPro.
September 14, 2011
Katatonia at Foufounes
Swedish metal band Katatonia will be at the Foufounes Électriques (87, rue Ste-Catherine Est, Montréal • 844-5539) on Sunday, September 18 2011, accompanied by two great Montreal bands, Heaven's Cry and Un Being. The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are available right now for $20/$25 through Admission.
July 31, 2011
ArchEnemy at the Metropolis
Swedish death metal band ArchEnemy will be at the Metropolis (59 Ste. Catherine Street East • 514-844-3500) on Tuesday, September 13, 2011, accompanied by Devildriver, Skeletonwitch and Chthonic. The show will begin at 7:30 PM and tickets are available right now for $30.72/$35.10 through Admission.
July 31, 2011
Avenged Sevenfold at Parc Jean-Drapeau
Prog metal band Avenged Sevenfold will play at Plaine des Jeux of the Parc Jean-Drapeau on Île St-Hélène on Tuesday, September 13 2011 as part of the Uproar Festival, where they will be accompanied by Three Days Grace, Sevendust, Bullet for my Valentine and Escape The Fate. Tickets on sale right now at $69 through Evenko.ca. Arrive soon! the show will begin at 2:30 PM! An entire day of pure metal!
September 9, 2011
Jelly Fiche launches 2nd album
Montreal's francophone progressive rock band Jelly Fiche will be at L’Alizé (900 Ontario Street East) on Tuesday, September 13 2011 for the official launch of their brand new album Symbiose. Tickets are availabre right now and cost $15 or $10 in advance through ticketpro.ca.
Jelly Fiche will be launching their second album Symbiose on September 13 at l'Alizé in Montréal, The official European album launch was held in France on August 10 2011 as Jelly Fiche headlined the opening night of the 13th Festival des musiques progressives Crescendo on August 18, 2011. For this ocasion, the band performed a series of 7 concerts in the South of France between August 8 and 20. Jelly Fiche has been proclaimed a classic example of Francophone progressive rock by AMAZON.com and their album Tout ce que j’ai rêvé has been lauded by world critics as one of "the best prog rock album since the 70s" and has garnered over 60 pages of hits on the Google.com search engine.
The Crescendo progressive music festival is held in St-Palais-sur-mer right next to the seashore and welcomes thousands of prog rock fans each year. Bands from every part of the world have taken part to this famous event. For this 13th edition, 10 shows were presented, and Jelly Fiche proudly represented Canada on the opening night, July 18.
With their 2nd concept album Symbiose, Jelly Fiche offers a harder edge. Unlike their 1st album Tout ce que j’ai rêvé which featured a spacier sound, the second CD journeys into a unique, distinctive path. In a fantasy universe, Symbiose's concept recounts a story of love though space/time - man's quest towards its reality, and the universal equilibrium.
Under the label "Unicorn Digital Records” and distributed through “Outside Music”, Don Murnaghan at the console (Arcade Fire) and mastered by Gary Tanin (Genesis), The Symbiose album features catcht melodies and sounds in the style of Coldplay, a powerful voice in the style of Led Zeppelin, and early Genesis influences ... An absolute must!
April 8, 2011
Within Temptation at the Metropolis!
Dutch goth prog metal band Within Temptation will be in Montreal on Thursday, September 8 2011 at the Metropolis (59 Sainte-Catherine Street East, Montréal) in support of their new album entitled Unforgiving. Tickets are $36.05, available through Admission and at the Metropolis boxoffice.
July 31, 2011
Wonder Trois Quatre at Mile End Cabaret
Don't miss the Wonder-Trois-Quatre band, a great gathering of talented musicians offering an improvisation/request show featuring lots of classics covers! They will be at the Cabaret du Mile End (5240 Park Avenue, Montreal • 514-563-1395) on Saturday, August 27 2011 at 8:00 PM, presenting their end-of-summer show.
The group is composed of Gaëtan Troutet, Benoît Rocheleau, Sophie Caron, Christian Laporte, Bruno Coulombe, Alain Mercure and Éric Bégin, with Gaëtan Laporte as the host. Tickets are $10, available in advance through Admission or $15 at the door!
August 8, 2011
Secret Chiefs 3 at Mile End Cabaret
Trey Spruance's world music instrumental rock band Secret Chiefs 3 will be playing at the Cabaret du Mile End (5240 Park Avenue, Montreal • 514-563-1395) on Monday, September 5, 2011 with special guest FAT32, a fantastic keyboard/drum duo from France.
The show will begin at 8:30 PM. Tickets are $17.50/$20, available through Admission.
July 2, 2011
David Myers plays Genesis at L'Astral
David Myers, the renowned pianist/keyboardist of The Musical Box, will present an intimate acoustic piano concert at L'Astral (305, Ste Catherine Ouest, Montréal • 514-288-8882) on Friday, August 26, 2011 and at salle Octave Crémazie of the Grand Théâtre (269 Boulevard René-Lévesque Est, Quebec City • 418-643-8111) on Saturday, August 27, 2011.
After touring extensively throughout Canada, the United States and Europe with The Musical Box tribute to Genesis as their keyboardist, David Myers has developed an exeptional sensibility to this music that has conquered millions of fans across the world over so many years. For this solo performance, David will interpret the wonderful music of Genesis with his great virtuosity and imagination in the intimate setting of L'Astral in Montreal and salle Octave Crémazie of the Grand Théâtre in Quebec City. David will offer moving interpretations of the Genesis classics from 1970 to 1978. A breathtaking visual production will ccompany David on the piano.
Tickets are $35 and will be on sale right now through Admission and Billetech, as well as at the Astral and Grand Théâtre boxoffices. A Spectour production.
June 5, 2011
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
Yes - Fly From Here:
One of the most influential and ground-breaking progressive bands in, legendary rockers and Grammy Award winners Yes, will release their first studio album in a decade, Fly From Here, on July 12th in North America through Frontiers Records. Their long awaited 20th studio album is the follow up to 2001’s Magnification and marks the band’s return with producer, Trevor Horn, who produced the band’s chart topping album, 90125, in 1983 and also sang for Yes on the Drama album in 1980. Yes is Benoit David on vocals (his first studio recording with Yes), Steve Howe on guitars/vocals, founder Chris Squire on bass/vocals, Geoff Downes on keyboards and Alan White on drums. Roger Dean, creator of a number of Yes’ most memorable album covers, also returns with his signature style for Fly From Here.
All of the songs on Fly From Here embody that classic and now iconic Yes sound and style. The first single, We Can Fly, (to be released digitally on June 13th) is borne from a piece of music that was written prior to the Fly writing sessions – an idea that has now grown into an overture and 5 subsequent movements that feature the unparalleled musicianship and virtuoso talents that are synonymous with Yes.
First formed in 1968, Yes’ remarkable career spans over 40 years and the band has time and again redefined the boundaries of rock music. Yes has sold nearly 50 million albums worldwide and continues to stretch the boundaries of progressive art-rock with their symphonic use of sound and innovative musical styles. This summer, Yes will return to the road to bring Fly From Here as well as some of their classic hits to their loyal following. European and American tour dates will be posted on http://www.yesworld.com/ywtour.html .
The track listing is as follows:
01. Fly From Here – Overture
02. Fly From Here – pt I – We Can Fly
03. Fly From Here – pt II – Sad Night At The Airfield
04. Fly From Here – pt III – Madman At The Screens
05. Fly From Here – pt IV – Bumpy Ride
06. Fly From Here – pt V – We Can Fly
07. The Man You Always Wanted Me To Be
08. Life On A Film Set
09. Hour Of Need
10. Solitaire
11. Into The Storm
Fly From Here will be released in 4 different configurations: cd, cd plus a bonus DVD including a documentary “Making of the Album” in digipak edition, a gatefold vinyl and a Special Box set limited edition including the cd, DVD, vinyl, t-shirt, poster, sticker and a lithograph of the cover art. The album will be available everywhere, including Archambault.ca
For more official Yes news and information, go to http://www.yesworld.com/
Opeth - Heritage:
Opeth recently announced that the band's new album Heritage will be released on September 20th, 2011 through Roadrunner Records.
The CD was produced by Opeth vocalist/guitarist Mikael Åkerfeldt and was recorded earlier this year at Atlantis studios in Stockholm. Mixing duties were handled by Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) and Åkerfeldt. Longtime collaborator Travis Smith also worked with Åkerfeldt to create, design and execute the album's artwork.
Heritage will be released in several configurations that will certainly incite the interest of Opeth's legion of fans, known for their passion for collecting and collectibles. The album will be released as a standard version; as a special edition loaded with extras; as a box set exclusive to the Roadrunner and the band's own official merch webstore; and as a double LP. There is something for every Opeth fan, thanks to this variety of options.
The track listing is as follows:
01. Heritage
02. The Devil's Orchard
03. I Feel the Dark
04. Slither
05. Nepenthe
06. Haxprocess
07. Famine
08. The Lines in My Hand
09. Folklore
10. Marrow of the Earth
The album will be available at all good record stores, including Archambault.ca
SLP - Perception:
After their phenomenal performance at the Terra Incognita Convention this May, Unicorn Digital presents SLP. Sébastien Lépine has established a solid reputation in the realm of classical music, yet he is also a highly versatile artist, a musical renaissance man who never hesitates to venture out on the uncertain path of experimentation. SLP (for Sébastien Lépine Project) finds the cellist temporarily swapping his precious Stradivarius for an electric cello, backed by the stalwart musicianship of guitarist Martin Carbonneau, bassist Ian Peterson, and drummer Denis Marchand. Within this electric chamber ensemble, if one may so call it, he delivers his own jazz-infused progressive rock compositions, creating an eclectic, yet attractive amalgamation of sounds.
Inspired by the likes of King Crimson, Pat Metheny, and Gentle Giant, the former pupil of cello master Janos Starker explores the many facets of the electric cello through remarkably well-written works that brilliantly showcase the spectacular instrument. Featuring electric guitar, electric bass, and drums, the performance is as surprising as it is uniquely innovative.
The album is available at all good record stores, including Archambault.ca and through Unicorn Digital.
Mars Hollow - World In Front Of Me:
Following their highly acclaimed performance at RoSFest 2011, 10T Records is thrilled to announce the pending release of the new full length CD by Mars Hollow, entitled World in front of Me, on June 21, 2011. It’s been less than one year since Mars Hollow’s highly acclaimed self-titled debut took the progressive rock world by storm. Now, the band marks their return with this new album, produced and mixed by Billy Sherwood (Yes, Circa:), and mastered by renowned producer David Javu Morse (David Bowie, Alice in Chains, Frank Zappa). Fans of uncompromising progressive rock are sure to find much to enjoy as the band continues defining their unique musical trajectory.
World in Front of Me by Mars Hollow is available for immediate pre-order through the 10T Records website. All orders received between now and the official release date will ship by the end of the week prior to the official release.
February 6, 2011
Kamelot at the Club Soda
American power metal band Kamelot will be at the Club Soda (1225 Saint-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Friday, September 2 2011, with BlackGuard and The Agonist.
Kamelot was formed by Thomas Youngblood and Richard Warner in 1991 in Tampa, Florida. Norwegian vocalist Roy Khan joined for the album Siège Perilous, and has shared song-writing duties with Youngblood since.
As of 2010, Kamelot has released nine studio albums, two live albums, one live DVD, seven music videos and a reissue of Ghost Opera that includes an additional disc with ten live recordings and four bonus tracks. Their most current studio album is Poetry for the Poisoned, which was released in September 2010.
The concert will begin at 7:00 PM and tickets are $25.46/$29.84 + taxes (VIP: doors @ 5pm / $59.69 + taxes) and are available at the Club Soda boxoffice or through the Club Soda website.
August 2, 2011
Slippermen at the Club Soda
Genesis tribute band Slippermen will be at the Club Soda (1225 Saint-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Friday, August 19 2011 with opening band The Fadeout.
This show will cover the entire 70's decade of Genesis Music, including some old favorites and some new songs, and for the first time, will feature songs from all albums from Nursery Cryme all the way to Duke. Expect well over 2 hours of music featuring dual drums! An evening not to be missed! The show will begin at 9:00 PM and tickets are FREE, available through the Club Soda website, their Facebook page and at the Club Soda boxoffice.
July 14, 2011
Intensive Care at Casa del Popolo
Montreal prog band Intensive Care will be at the Casa Del Popolo (4873 St-Laurent, Montréal • 514-284-3804) on Monday, July 25, 2011, accompanied by two bands from Washington, Deleted Scenes and Hammer no More The Fingers. Don't miss this great evening of artful, ingenious avant/alt/prog music. The show begins at 8:30 PM.
May 9, 2011
Clément Larose at O PatroVys
Clément Larose, the talented guitarist of Close to the Edge, will be at O Patro Vys (356 Mont-Royal East, Montreal • 514-845-3855) on Friday, July 29 2011 to present his brand new show of material from his Clement Larose project.
For this show, Clément will be accompanied by Charles Fortin on vocals and Simon Langlois on drums, with Jean-Pierre Zanella on sax as special guest. The show will begin at 8 PM and tickets are $20.
June 27, 2011
Alberto Bonomi of DFA dies
Alberto Bonomi, the brilliant keyboardist of the Italian prog fusion band DFA, who offered an unforgettable performance at FMPM 2009, has died on June 26 in a car accident on an Italian highway. Our sincerest sympathies and thoughts go to his family, his colleagues and his fans.
March 19, 2011
Montreal Jazz Fest
An excellent lineup for the 32nd edition of the Montreal Jazz Fest which will take place from June 25 to July 4 2011.
The Place Des Arts will welcome among others Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant and his Band of Joy on June 24, An all-star reunion of Return To Forever's Chick Corea, Jean-Luc Ponty, Stanley Clarke and Lenny White on June 26, Joshua Redman on June 26, Peter Frampton will Come Alive on June 30, Diana Krall from June 26 to 28 and Paco de Lucia on June 25!
Tickets are now available at the Place des Arts boxoffice.
June 3, 2011
Hamadryad at Clydes Pub in Pointe Claire
Following their recent show at Pub de la Place at the end of May, Montreal prog rock band Hamadryad will perform at Clydes Pub (286, Chemin Du Bord-du-Lac Lakeshore, Pointe-Claire • 514-630-8118) on Friday, June 17, 2011.
Hamadryad's 4th studio album, entitled Intrusion has been receiving well-deserved praise, including at the Italian Prog Awards. The band's lineup includes Jean-François Désilets on bass and vocals, Denis Jalbert on guitars and vocals, Sébastien Cloutier on keyboards and vocals, Nicolas Turcotte on drums and Jean-Philippe Major on lead vocals. The concert will begin at 8:30 PM and tickets are $8 at the door.
March 19, 2011
Supertramp in Montreal
Supertramp will take the long way home through Canada this summer, and will be in Montreal on Thursday, June 16 2011 at the Bell Center.
The reunited ’70s classic rock band will bring their 70-10 Tour to 11 cities in May and June, travelling from Victoria to Montreal. Founding singer-keyboardist Rick Davies will be joined by longtime members John Anthony Helliwell and Bob Siebenberg, along with Jesse Siebenberg, Cliff Hugo, Carl Verheyen, Lee Thornburg, Cassie Miller and Gabe Dixon. Singer-keyboardist Roger Hodgson, who left the band in 1983, is not involved in the reunion tour.
The British band released their self-titled debut album in 1970 and later topped the charts with singles such as Lady, Dreamer, Bloody Well Right, Give a Little Bit, Take the Long Way Home, Breakfast in America and The Logical Song.
Doors will open at 7:00 PM and the show will begin at 8:00 PM. Tickets are available right now through Evenko and cost between $63.50 and $167.
June 3, 2011
Lazarus Heart in Pointe-Claire
Sting/Police tribute band Lazarus Heart will be at Calistoga Grill (Plaza Pointe-Claire, corner of Donegani & Maywood • 514-630-7577) on Saturday, June 4 2011. The band is composed of Sylvain Auclair on vocals, bass and fretless bass, Thomas Brodeur on drums, Guillaume Larouche on sax, Simon L'Espérance on guitar, and Dominique Poirier on Trombone, they will play classics from the famous british trio as well as material from Sting's illustrious solo career. The show begins around 9:30 PM.
May 7, 2011
Hamadryad at Pub de la Place
First show this year for the guys, Montreal prog rock band Hamadryad will perform at the Pub De La Place (1475 St-Hubert Street, Montreal • 514-288-7274) on Saturday, May 28, 2011. Montreal's Kinnkajou will be the opening act.
Hamadryad's 4th studio album, entitled Intrusion has been receiving well-deserved praise, including at the Italian Prog Awards. The band's lineup includes Jean-François Désilets on bass and vocals, Denis Jalbert on guitars and vocals, Sébastien Cloutier on keyboards and vocals, Nicolas Turcotte on drums and Jean-Philippe Major on lead vocals. The concert will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $7 at the door. Don't miss 'em!
April 3, 2011
Blackfield at the National, new opening band!
Blackfield will be at Le National (1220 Ste-Catherine East • 514-845-2014) on Monday, May 23 2011. Latest news: Anathema have just been confirmed as the opening band, in replacement of previously announced metal band Katatonia.
Blackfield is the collaboration between Steven Wilson (of Porcupine Tree) and Israeli artist Aviv Geffen. The duo return with their third album Welcome To My DNA which will be released on Kscope in late March. Formed after a meeting in 2000, the partnership blossomed into a cross-cultural collaboration that has already spawned two albums (2004’s Blackfield and 2007’s Blackfield II).
The concert will begin at 8:00 PM (doors at 7:00 PM) and tickets are $30, available at the National boxoffice and through Admission.
April 20, 2011
Slippermen at the Double Deuce club
Genesis tribute band Slippermen will present a show on Saturday, May 21 2011 at the Double Deuce club (1375 Chemin St-Jean, La Prairie • 450-659-2351).
This show will cover the entire 70's decade of Genesis Music, including some old favorites and some new songs, and will feature songs from all albums from Nursery Cryme all the way to Duke. Expect well over 2 hours of music from this great evening not to be missed! The show will beginat 9:00 PM and tickets are $12, available at the door on the day of the show.
April 13, 2011
Convention Terra Incognita 7: Headliner change!
Many might be disappointed that Beardfish had to suddenly cancel their appearance at the Terra Incognita Convention but the organizers have found a splendid replacement... Agents of Mercy featuring Nad Sylvan, Jonas Reingold and Roine Stolt
The 7th edition of the Terra Incognita Convention will be held in Quebec City at the Centre d'art La Chapelle ( 620, ave. Plante, Quebec City • 418-622-1611) on Saturday, May 21 and Sunday May 22 2011 and features the Convention's best lineup yet, including Agents of Mercy, Wobbler and Trettioariga Kriget!
Here is the detailed schedule:
May 21st : Sky Architect at 5:00PM, Rhys Marsh at 8:00PM, Wobbler at 9:30PM
May 22nd : SLP at 5:00PM, Trettioariga Kriget at 8:00PM, Agents of Mercy at 9:30PM
Tickets are $88 for each day, available at the Centre d'art La Chapelle boxoffice, by phone at 418-686-5032 or through Billetech.com.
For general information on the event, contact terraincognitamag@hotmail.com
or visit http://terraincognitaprog.weebly.com/
May 4, 2011
ProgMontreal website problems
For those who were not able to connect to the ProgMontreal website this weekend, we wish to apologize for the outage and technical difficulties we experienced as our main web server experienced an unfortunate meltdown. The site has been moved to a new (and hopefully improved) server, and our site should be rock stable from now on. Thank you to all for your concern and support! - Robert
April 8, 2011
Proggy tidbits!
Here are some of the latest headlines in the wonderful world of progressive music:
John Jowitt rejoins Arena
Following John Jowitt's departure from IQ a few months ago, it was obvious that the energetic bassist who had also left Jadis and Frost* a while ago couldn't stay idle for very long. Here's John's posting about his reunion with Arena on his Facebook page:
"For those that don't know, following the departure of Ian Salmon I've been asked to join Arena (once more), and have agreed. Best of luck to Ian (best fretless bass sound going!).
First gig in June, and I will be appearing on the new album - and have been asked to put forward some song ideas.
Right, I'm looking forward to taking care ..." - John Jowitt, April 7, 2011
April 3, 2011
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
Rush - Moving Pictures Deluxe Edition CD+DVD:
Rush’s Moving Pictures celebrates its 30th anniversary with a spectacular release this April 5 of Moving Pictures - Deluxe Edition. This CD and DVD set has been digitally remastered and features the Moving Pictures album as well as a DVD with three bonus music videos: Tom Sawyer, Limelight and the previously unreleased clip Vital Signs. Supervised by Alex Lifeson, the music videos are presented in stunning 5.1 surround sound mix using the original Moving Pictures multi-tracks and in newly remastered stereo from the original analog master tapes.
The Moving Pictures Deluxe Edition CD boasts playback of 256 times more resolution than regular CD audio with 5.1 surround sound and stereo audio in 96kHz/24-bit high-resolution audiophile playback. This feature provides the listener with the closest experience to actually hearing what Geddy, Alex and Neil heard in the studio way back in 1981. And finally, included in the package is an extensive gallery with previously unreleased photos from the original Moving Pictures recording sessions and new liner notes by David Fricke. Available at Archambault.ca and at all good record stores!
Van Der Graaf Generator - A Grounding in Numbers:
Legendary Musicians Peter Hammill, Hugh Banton and Guy Evans have released the latest Van Der Graaf Generator album entitled A Grounding in Numbers on March 14. The album was mixed by renowned engineer Hugh Padgham, best known for his work with Yes, ELP, Genesis, Peter Gabriel and Sting. The album is available at Freeson Rock and at all good record stores!
Tracklist for A Grounding In Numbers:
1. Your Time Starts Now
2. Mathematics
3. Highly Strung
4. Red Baron
5. Bunsho
6. Snake Oil
7. Splink
8. Embarrassing Kid
9. Medusa
10. Mr Sands
11. Smoke
12. 5533
13. All Over The Place
Symphony X - Iconoclast:
North America’s progressive metal masterminds Symphony X are proud to announce the upcoming release of their ninth studio album & Nuclear Blast debut, Iconoclast. It will be available in North America on June 21st.
Illustrator and film concept artist Warren Flanagan (Watchmen, The Incredible Hulk, 2012) is the talent behind the album artwork. The track listing for the jewel-cased version of Iconoclast is:
01. Iconoclast
02. The End Of Innocence
03. Dehumanized
04. Bastards Of The Machine
05. Heretic
06. Children Of A Faceless God
07. Electric Messiah
08. Prometheus (I Am Alive)
09. When All Is Lost
The track listing for the 2-CD Special Edition digi-pak version of Iconoclast is:
CD 1:
01. Iconoclast
02. The End Of Innocence
03. Dehumanized
04. Bastards Of The Machine
05. Heretic
06. Children Of A Faceless God
07. When All Is Lost
CD 2:
01. Electric Messiah
02. Prometheus (I Am Alive)
03. Light Up The Night
04. The Lords Of Chaos
05. Reign In Madness
May 9, 2011
Asia, featuring Wetton, Howe, Downes and Palmer
tonight at the Metropolis in Montreal!
FMPM and Get It Promotions are proud to present the long awaited return to Montreal of progressive rock super-group ASIA, this Monday, May 9, 2011 at the Metropolis (59 Sainte-Catherine Street East, Montréal). Featuring bassist/vocalist John Wetton (UK and King Crimson), drummer Carl Palmer (ELP), guitarist Steve Howe (YES), and keyboardist Geoff Downes (Buggles)
The original group ASIA stormed onto the music scene in 1982 with their debut self-titled album which quickly reached #1 on the Billboard charts and remained there for an incredible 10 weeks. Top 10 singles like Heat Of The Moment, Only Time Will Tell, Sole Survivor and Time Again, resulted in sales exceeding 7 million copies.
After multiple line-up changes, the stars aligned in early 2006 with all four original members of ASIA reuniting for a world tour to celebrate the group’s 25th anniversary. This resulted in the band releasing Fantasia: Live in Tokyo in 2007. ASIA then returned to the studio and recorded the acclaimed albums Phoenix in 2008 and Omega in 2010.
"This is the real ASIA," says guitarist Steve Howe. "There have been other versions of the band, but this original line-up is the one that the public truly embraced. Since we only toured for a couple of years, it will be nice, finally, to play for audiences all over the world, many of whom never had a chance to see the group in concert."
The heat goes on at www.originalasia.com !
RESERVED SEATING TICKETS: Reserved seats for ASIA now avaliable through 514-970-1245 or 1-800-361-4595 or online at www.admission.com.
May 1st 2011
Godspeed You! Black Emperor at l'Olympia
Legendary Montreal prog/post rock band Godspeed You! Black Emperor will be at L'Olympia (1004 Ste-Catherine East, Montréal • 514-845-3524) on Sunday, May 1st and Monday, May 2nd 2011 for their first tour in a decade! Get your tickets for GY!BE now because these shows will soon be sold out!
Tickets are $12 and are available at the Olympia boxoffice and at Cheap Thrills, Atom Heart, L'Oblique and Phonopolis.
April 28, 2011
Rik Emmett and Dave Dunlop at l'Astral
The heart and soul of legendary canadian band Triumph, Rik Emmett, along with his long-time musical partner Dave Dunlop, will be in Montreal this Saturday, April 30, 2011 at l'Astral (305 Ste-Catherine Street West, Montreal • 514-288-8882).
The duo, AKA the Strung-Out Troubadours, will present material from their recent album entitled Push Pull, as well as classics from Rik's illustrious carreer. Rik has played in Montreal seven times over the past six years and audiences keep coming back for more. Rik and Dave Dunlop pack a serious one-two punch as versatile and extraordinary guitarists, vocalists and story-tellers.
Reserved seating in an intimate venue is the best way to appreciate these two talented musicians! The concert will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $43, availailable through Admission and at the L'Astral boxoffice. A Get It Promorions presentation.
April 20, 2011
Tramp of the Century in St-Lazare
Montreal's Supertramp tribute band Tramp of the Century will be in St-Lazare at the Bar Chez Maurice (1897, Chemin St-Angélique, St-Lazare • 450-455-3544) on Saturday, April 30 2011, tickets are 20$ and the show begins at 9:30 PM (doors at 8:30 PM). Their show that was supposed to take place on March 5 at the Palace de Granby in Granby has been moved up to November 12, 2011.
At last, 15 years after the departure of Roger Hodgson from the legendary group that conquered Quebec in the 70's, Tramp of the Century promises to enthrall the diehard fan as well as the simple amateur with their tribute to Supertramp. By the intense rendition of Supertramp's unforgettable music, the fans will rediscover the richness and brilliance of the classic Hodgson and Davies material. Focused on the main era of the two singers/songwriters, the repertoire includes songs from the legendary Crime of the Century in 1974 to Famous Last Words, the last opus of the original formation: Hide in your Shell, School, Dreamer, Fool's Ouverture, Give a Little Bit, Rudy are only a few of the hits that the fans will witness in one of their concerts. Tramp of the Century unites 6 seasoned musicians under the direction of Roger Leclerc. They are dedicated in delivering Supertramp's music in all its authenticity and in sharing their passion for the sound of Supertramp.
March 19, 2011
Comfortably Numb at the Metropolis
Comfortably Numb - Canada's Pink Floyd Show will be back in Montreal on Saturday April 30 2011 at the Metropolis (59 Sainte-Catherine East, Montreal • 514 844-3500)
Performing the music of Pink Floyd ('69-'83), this is a show that many fans consider the finest tribute act in North America. The band's success is a testament to the continuing interest in the music and legacy of Pink Floyd, and Comfortably Numb's authentic re-creation of the 70's Pink Floyd experience. Comfortably Numb performed to over 35,000 fans in 2010 and was a headline act at Le FestiVoix de Trois-Rivières music festival in 2010. As of one of Canada’s leading outdoor music festivals, Comfortably Numb – Canada’s Pink Floyd Show performed a sold out show to over 14,000 fans!
Since forming in '93, Comfortably Numb has earned the much-deserved reputation as one of the leading Pink Floyd tribute acts in the world. Brain Damage, the only fan website in the world recognized and supported by the members of Pink Floyd and Rogers Waters, recently reviewed a show as "Considered musically, one of the best in the world!"
Be a part of this extraordinary Pink Floyd tribute with Comfortably Numb - Canada’s Pink Floyd Show and find out what thousands of people are calling the best Pink Floyd tribute experience in the world….and proudly Canadian.
Doors open at 7:00 PM and the show will begin at 8:30 PM Tickets are $30 plus applicable service charges through TicketMaster and are available now at all TicketMaster outlets or by phone at (514) 790 1245. All Ages show - Limited Time Student Special Offer 2 Tickets for $40!
April 20, 2011
Lazarus Heart at Bar Chez Maurice
Sting/Police tribute band Lazarus Heart will be back at Bar Chez Maurice (1897, Chemin St-Angélique, St-Lazare • 450-455-3544) on Saturday, April 23 2011. The band is composed of Sylvain Auclair on vocals, bass and fretless bass, Thomas Brodeur on drums, Guillaume Larouche on sax, Simon L'Espérance on guitar, and Sébastien Cloutier on keyboards, they will play classics from the famous british trio as well as material from Sting's illustrious solo career. The show begins around 9:30 PM.
April 20, 2011
Symphony X at the Metropolis
New Jersey's progressive metal masters Symphony X are pleased to announce their headlining North American tour featuring Seattle's Nevermore, Soilwork from Sweden, Boston's Powerglove, and Blackguard from Montreal. The trek will launch this spring in Philadelphia and will hit Montréal this Monday, April 25, 2011 at the Metropolis (59 Ste. Catherine Street East, Montréal • 514-844-3500).
Symphony X are currently recording their new CD on the Nuclear Blast label and follow-up to 2007's Paradise Lost which has sold over 60,000 copies in North America. The show will begin at 7:00 PM and tickets are $34.80 ($36.75 on the day of the show) and VIP, which includes include early entry, a Meet & Greet, and a limited edition poster at $104.80, available through Ticketmaster and at the Metropolis boxoffice.
April 12, 2011
Rush at the Bell Center
Canadian prog heroes Rush will bring their Time Machine Tour 2011 to Montreal on Wednesday, April 20 2011 at the Bell Center! Don't miss an evening with Rush, featuring the performance of MOVING PICTURES in its entirety, to coincide with the release of their special Moving Pictures Deluxe Edition CD+DVD package in early April.
Doors at 7:00 PM, the show will begin at 8:00 PM. Tickets are $59/$79/$105.50/$145.50, available through evenko.ca.
April 3, 2011
Proggy tidbits!
Here are some of the latest headlines in the wonderful world of progressive music:
New Yes album Fly From Here out this July
Wakeman out, Buggles in.
Quintessential prog-rockers Yes have announced that they have reunited with legendary producer Trevor Horn for their highly anticipated new album, Fly From Here. The album marks the band's first studio album in ten years.
The album originated from a conversation between Horn and Yes bassist Chris Squire, who re-discovered the song Fly From Here and realized that it had never been recorded in a studio. "Chris and I were talking one evening about the song Fly From Here that we never recorded," explains Horn. "I said I was prepared to spend two weeks with Yes recording that song. When I arrived in America to record it, I was taken prisoner by the band and only allowed my freedom again in return for producing the whole album. It was an offer I couldn't refuse!"
Fly From Here retains Yes' signature brand of mysticism and large-scale compositions. The record contains plenty of the complex arrangements, beautiful harmonies, and heavy riffs the band is known for. "The new album represents the best of Yes from the '70s and the '80s with a current twist," said Squire.
Keyboardist Geoff Downes, who originally joined the band for 1980's Drama, has also re-joined the band for the new album. Yes now consists of guitarist Steve Howe, bassist Chris Squire, drummer Alan White, keyboardist Downes, and lead singer Benoit David.
With total sales of over 30 million albums, Yes are widely considered to be the pioneers of the prog-rock movement. The group is also known for radio classics such as Roundabout, a seminal hit that consistently appears on 'the best songs of all time' lists, and the Horn-produced hit Owner of a Lonely Heart. The latter song reached the top of both the UK and US singles charts simultaneously.
Fly From Here will be released on Frontiers Records in July 2011. Source: Heavy Rock-The Playlist, March 31, 2011
February 6, 2011
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
Pär Lindh Project - Timemirror:
The amazing keyboard-driven prog quintet is back! Timemirror is Pär Lindh Project's first studio album in 10 years. Pär Lindh comments: "Welcome back to a new era of groundbreaking musical compositions. Every track consists of new creative styles of music which you have never heard before. Pär Lindh Project is a band that focus on keyboard-based music with strong melodic writing and which blends the the power of rock music with the compositional skills of the great heritage of European classical music."
The album will be available at Syn-Phonic as well as through Pär Lindh's online store!
The D Project - Big Face:
Stéphane Desbiens' D project is back on track! If you liked The Shimmering Lights and The Sagarmatha Dilemma albums, then Big Face will shake you up. Once again, Stéphane Desbiens' guitars leads the way to a memorable symphonic, progressive and sometimes plain basic rock experience. As always, Francis Foy acts as the producer. Nine tracks of intriguing and dramatic compositions calling upon guest artists such as bassist Tony Levin, Quidam's lead singer Bartek Kossowicz, keyboard virtuoso Lalle Larsson and keyboard player and singer Claire Vézina. Mastered by Andy Jackson of the Pink Floyd hall of fame, The Big Face album breaks new grounds and makes the D Project the symphonic prog band to watch in the coming years!
Big Face will be available in early March, through the D-Project webstore, and at all good record stores!
Dropshard - Anywhere But Home:
A great new prog metal band from Italy, Dropshard is about to release their first album. The band was created in 2007 and after much touring and studio rehearsals, recorded this CD under the masterful hand of Dale Smith. Check out some exciting audio excerpts on MySpace from their upcoming CD.
Anywhere But Home will be available from the Sonic Vista online shop and in digital format from Amazon.com.
Paatos - Breathing:
Paatos is back to offer what will be without doubt their strongest album yet. A more mature and fearless expression resulting in a timeless collection of songs. Breathing is a true rebirth for the band. Listen to some mesmerizing excerpts on their audio page.
Fifth album of the band, Breathing will be released on February 11 through Burning Shed.
April 3, 2011
Marillion Convention 2011 in Montreal this weekend!
The Marillion Convention 2011 will take place once again in Montreal at the Olympia (1004 St-Catherine East, Montreal • 514-845-3524) this Friday April 8 to Sunday, April 10, 2011 and tickets are available through Admission. Here's the official press release:
"We are pleased to announce that once again we will be holding TWO Marillion Weekends in 2011. The first will be at CenterParcs Port Zelande, Holland on Fri 25th - Mon 28th March and after that we will be returning to Montreal at the Olympia from Friday, April 8 until Sunday, April 10, 2011.
To carry on a tradition and to celebrate 20 years since its release, we will be performing the whole of the Holidays In Eden album on the Friday nights at both Weekends. Saturday and Sunday nights are still in the planning stage but rest assured we will be putting together two interesting shows.
The Canadian convention will feature great support bands along so it will be 3 solid nights of great musical entertainment. As with all our Marillion Weekends anywhere in the world, you will not be able to purchase individual day tickets for this event. The tickets for the whole Marillion Weekend 2011 - Canada are $150 CAD for a three day ticket plus applicable taxes. Please note: Your ticket will be valid for all 3 shows in Montréal - you will receive a special Marillion Weekend wristband upon arrival to the Friday show which will grant you access on all 3 nights.
We look forward to spending quality time with the family again...
Ian, Pete, Steve, h and Mark"
April 8, 2011
Marillion Convention 2011 in Montreal:
Fan gathering and pre-show performance at Brutopia!
To mark the beginning of the celebrations for the Marillion Convention 2011, and to get this big party going in style, there will be a cool meet and greet at the Brutopia pub (1219 Crescent Street between Ste-Catherine and René Lévesque • 514-393-9277) on Friday, April 8 2011 in the afternoon, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Toronto-based prog band Tempus Fugit will perform at 1:00 PM and Sun Domingo wil perform at 3:00 PM. Don't miss the great beer, the great food, the fun and the great company!
April 8, 2011
Acid Mothers Temple at Il Motore
The mighty Acid Mothers Temple will bring their Melting Paraiso UFO tour 2011 to Montreal on Saturday, April 9 2011 at Il Motore Club (179 Jean-Talon Street West, corner Waverly • 514-284-0122) accompanied by Shilpa Ray and Her Happy Hookers. AMT features Tsuyama Atsushi on bass, vocals, acoustic guitar - Higashi Hiroshi on synthesizer, guitar, chorus - Shimura Koji on drums - Kawabata Makoto on guitar, chorus. Don't miss an evening of music that is simply beyond description! The show begins at 8:30 PM and tickets are $15/$17.
January 22, 2011
The Residents back at Club Soda
Back by popular demand, American avant-garde band The Residents will be once again at the Club Soda (1225 boul. Saint-Laurent, Montreal • 514-286-1010) on Tuesday, March 29 2010, at 8:00 PM.
Renowned for their outrageous costumes, The Residents is an American avant-garde music and visual arts group who have been active since 1969. Their first official release under the name of The Residents was in 1972, and since then the band have gone on to release over sixty albums, numerous music videos and short films, three CD-ROM projects, ten DVDs, and have undertaken seven major world tours. Throughout the group's existence, the individual members have ostensibly attempted to conceal their identities from the public, and much public speculation and rumor has focused on this aspect of the group. In public, the group appears silent and costumed, often wearing eyeball helmets, top hats and tuxedos - a long-lasting costume now recognized as their signature iconography. Their albums are often complex conceptual pieces, composed around a theme, theory or plot, and are noted for surrealistic lyrics and disregard for standard Western pop music composition.
Tickets for the show are $30 ($35 at the door on the day of the show), available through the Club Soda website.
January 30, 2011
Proggy tidbits!
Here are some of the latest headlines in the wonderful world of progressive music
To everyone's surprise, Canadian prog band Saga just announced on their website the return of long-time lead singer Michael Sadler, who was a member of the group from 1977 to 2007.
Sadler announced in 2007 that he was leaving the band for personal reasons, and was replaced by Toronto-based singer Rob Moratti, who participated in the recording of Saga's 2009 album The Human Condition.
Here is the announcement on their main webpage:
"Official Announcement!: To put all the rumours to rest, we are happy to officially announce that Michael Sadler is once again the Singer and Frontman in Saga!! The new studio CD and tour news with Michael will be up very soon!
We wish Rob all the best in the future with his new Solo CD!" - Saga, January 28 2011.
March 18, 2011
Wonder-Trois-Quatre at the Quai des Brumes
Don't miss the Wonder-Trois-Quatre band, a great gathering of talented musicians offering an improvisation/request show featuring lots of classics covers! They will be at the Quai des Brumes (4481 St-Denis, Montreal) on Tuesday, March 22 2011 at 9:00 PM.
The group is composed of Sophie Caron on vocals, Bruno Coulombe on guitars, Simon Dolan on bass, Christian Laporte on vocals, Jean-Sébastien Nicol on drums, Benoït Rocheleau on keyboards and trombone and Gaëtan Troutet on keyboards. Admission is $5 at the door!
January 16, 2011
Proggy tidbits!
Here are some of the latest headlines in the wonderful world of progressive music:
Major changes with the band IQ, it is with much sadness that long-time member and bassist extraordinaire John Jowitt announced his departure from the band. John says: "I'm very sad to say that although playing with IQ has been a dream come true, after 19 years with the band I love, last month's Christmas gig at the O2 was my last show with IQ, and I'm leaving the band. I've had a great time, met lots of wonderful people, travelled the world, but it's time to move on. I'd like to confirm that this is my decision, and also that it has no relationship to me playing with any other band.
I'd like to wish all the best to IQ, for what I'm sure will continue to be a great future; I'd like to thank the crew and past band members for all their help, camaraderie and hard work, and most of all, I'd like to thank everyone who's come along to the shows over the years and supported us."
Following this announcement, The group announced the return to IQ of Tim Esau. As you will know, Tim was the original bassist with the band from 1981 to 1989 and the group is thrilled to be able to welcome him back to the IQ family in time for their 30th anniversary year.
Here are some words from Tim himself:
"Well, I'll start by adding my best wishes to John for his future. I've only met him a couple of times myself but I know he is a great entertainer and was hugely popular with the IQ faithful.
So, following John's departure and having recovered from the initial shock of receiving a most unexpected email, I am extremely grateful to Pete, Mike and Cookie for thinking of me and inviting me back to play bass for IQ and I'm very happy to accept that invitation. I look forward very much to working with them again, meeting and working with Neil, seeing many faces that I haven't seen in many a year and, of course, meeting lots of new ones. I can't believe it's 30 years since I first joined IQ but I guess I've had a nice long rest so I'm ready to do some work and get on with the celebrating of this 'quite remarkable' anniversary.
"Rest assured we have no plans for further line-up changes in the near future! We look forward to seeing you all on this year's exciting IQ30 tour". Recent changes in the IQ lineup also included the return of Paul "Cookie" Cook on drums and the addition of new keyboardist Neil Durant.
March 18, 2011
Close to the Edge in Montreal
Montreal's Yes tribute band Close to the Edge will be playing at the Il Motore club (179 Jean-Talon Street West • 514-284-0122) tonight, Friday, March 18 2011.
A great evening of Yes music in an intimate 240-seat auditorium and a great opportunity for the band to introduce their two new members, Clément Larose on guitars and Charles Fortin on lead vocals, accompanying Richard Lanthier on bass, Simon Mercure on keys and vocals and Pierre Dragon on drums. Charles of course takes over for Benoit David, who is quite busy these days as a full member of Yes and Mystery!
Tickets are $17 by phone at 514-303-1421, $18 through www.productionsdenislegault.com/closetotheedge.html by credit card or Paypal, or $20 at the door on the day of the show. The concert begins at 9:00 PM (doors at 8:00 PM).
December 12, 2010
Apocalyptica at the Metropolis, take two
After having to reschedule their fall 2010 tour to the beginning of March 2011 due to cellist Perttu Kivilaakso's health, Finnish symphonic prog metal band Apocalyptica will be at the Metropolis (59 Sainte-Catherine Street East, Montréal • 514-844-3500) on Thursday, March 10, 2011 to support the release of their latest album entitled 7th Symphony.
The concert will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $26.75 ($31.75 on the day of the show) available through Ticketmaster and at the Metropolis boxoffice. Tickets for the December 2 show will be honored.
December 30, 2010
Slippermen in Sorel-Tracy
Genesis tribute band Slippermen will present a show on Saturday, February 19 2011 at the Marine Cabaret (40 rue Du Roi, Sorel-Tracy, QC).
This show will cover the entire 70's decade of Genesis Music, including some old favorites and some new songs, and for the first time, will feature songs from all albums from Nursery Cryme all the way to Duke. Expect well over 2 hours of music from this great evening not to be missed! The show will beginat 9:00 PM and tickets are $18, available through the Marine Cabaret website, by phone at 450-742-9510 and at the door on the day of the show.
January 1st, 2011
Carl Savard/Marc-André Noël guitar duo
You are cordially invited to a great evening of acoustic guitar with Carl Savard and Marc-André Noël (of Vecteur K) in L'Assomption at the Oasis du Vieux Palais (255 Rue Saint Étienne, L'Assomption • 450-589-3266) on Friday, January 21 2011 at 7:30 PM, featuring a compilation of tracks by artists that have inspired both musicians. two guys, two guitars, two chairs... and a lot of fun!
In Marc-André's case, it's his first solo/duo show without his band since 2003! For this occasion, he will present a new track from the upcoming Vecteur K album that will begin production this summer. Both musicians will play some well-known and some more obscure tracks that really captured their attention over the years. Tickets are $10, available through Marc-André, as well as at the door on the day of the show.
November 28, 2010
New music
Cool new music from all around the world, here are some recent (and future) releases of interest:
Rouge Ciel - Bryologie:
The latest release from Montreal's Rouge Ciel, Bryologie offers 43 minutes of stunning, clever music! With Bryologie, the quartet pushes further transmutation of genres already started with their previous albums. Games forms combining improvisation and tight composition. Acoustic, electric and electronic textures served amid rock, jazz or avant-garde. A band with an unusual line-up Guido Del Fabbro (violin and electronics), Simon Lapointe (keyboards), Antonin Provost (guitars) and Nemo Venba (trumpet and drums), Rouge Ciel offers a music turned towards the pleasure of creation without constraints. The album is available at ActuelleCD and at all good record stores!
Steve Hackett - Live Rails:
Train On The Road was the motto for the tour with which Steve Hackett promoted his current album Out Of The Tunnel's Mouth in 2009 and 2010 and now, the live album from the tour is here already. Live Rails was recorded in New York City, Paris and London and is available on Steve Hackett's website, HackettSongs.com.
Tracklist:
CD1
Intro
Every Day
Fire On The Moon
Emerald & Ash
Ghost In The Glass
Ace Of Wands
Pollution C
The Steppes
Slogans
Serpentine
Tubehead
CD2
Spectral Mornings
Firth Of Fifth
Blood On The Rooftops
Fly On A Windshield
Broadway Melody Of 1974
Sleepers
Still Waters
Los Endos
Clocks
Roger Hodgson - Classics Live:
Roger's Classics Live is a spectacular collection of his live performances from acoustic, band and orchestra shows around the world recorded on his 2010 tour. A collection of 10 songs, including Take the long Way Home, Hide In Your Shell, It's Raining Again, Give a little bit among others. The album is available immediately in digital download format from Roger Hodgson merchandise page, and also available in various CD, DVD and deluxe vinyl packages, hand signed by Roger.
December 12, 2010
The Decemberists at l'Olympia
American indie folk rock band with prog overtones The Decemberists will be at L'Olympia (1004 Ste-Catherine East, Montréal • 514-845-3524) on Monday, January 31 2011 with special guest Wye Oak
The Decemberists will launch their latest CD The King is Dead in mid-January. The show will begin at 8:00 PM and tickets are $29.50, available through Admission, at L'Olympia's boxoffice and at Cheap Thrills, Atom Heart and L'Oblique.
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