Jax Said

I Sprang Forward, Now I Fall back

2011-11-05T00:39:00.004-07:00

Halloween Ball at Science World 2011

So I completely forgot about blogging altogether the last month or so. I have been so wrapped up in worked and sitting at a computer after sitting at one for 8 hours isn't so appealing sometimes. It will just have to be me making more of an effort and getting back into a bit of a routine for myself. Maybe choose one day a week to blog and work my way up. I like my job, it took awhile to get a grasp on some things but now that I know what it is I'm doing and have more confidence in it, it isn't so bad. The company is pretty cool and the people are great, it's the commute and waking up super insane early that suck. I am really looking forward to that extra hour of sleep!

As you can see from the photo, Halloween was spent at the costume ball and it was a lot of fun. I doubt I'd do that venue again at that price ($55) but if you're under 25 and single- go forth! I am really digging this new Gomez tune, Options. Been awhile since I've heard from them.

The Song I Currently Adore

2011-09-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

The Return Of The Lazy Sunday

2011-09-18T09:41:00.007-07:00

Chilliwack Lake, BC. A new paradise discovered.

Well it was inevitable. Summer is over and I am now fully employed in a 9-5. So far the job seems ok and the people I work with are really laid back and nice guys. I was really overwhelmed the first few days but I imagine that has more to do with the fact I haven't been in a traditional work environment in almost two years.

It sure doesn't take long to appreciate your weekends and vacations! Although I am sad that I won't be able to support myself on charm and sheer luck, I am happy to be free from the stress of financial doom. It was getting bad, and I knew I had to make this happen asap. I'm not looking at is as failure or selling out but more like a means to acquire new shoes, better equipment and a bit of spending money to go see more shows downtown. And now that I am working in Richmond I can easily do that, even on weekdays.

So if you have a new song or a show playing in Vancouver,hit me up and I'll do my best to come down and attempt to take some unique shots of you and your band. Or check out your indie movie..whatever. I've felt kinda out of the loop culturally for the last few months while I succumbed to summer by the beach and I feel it's time to get back in and check shit out. A lot of changes coming up for me, I can feel it like crisp air in the mornings as I walk out to my car at 7am. I have no idea what life has in store for me but I'm alive with anticipation and that's all I can ask for right now.

Facebook Ads...So Badly Worded

2011-09-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

Single Dads Need (1) Shot

singleparentmeet.com

Due to the high number of single dads on SingleParentMeet, they are lacking female attention. Therefore, we need more females to join!

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Labour Day- Enjoy!

2011-09-05T11:03:00.001-07:00

This Song Is 8 Years Old. That Is All.

2011-08-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

The White Rock Farmer's Market

2011-08-21T17:36:00.008-07:00

The White Rock Farmer's Market is every Sunday from 9am-1pm now until October 9th on Russell Avenue. I highly recommend Judy's baked selections, especially her pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Head down this sunday with your cloth bags and cash in hand!

Have A Kickass Weekend

2011-08-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

Mood Of The Day

2011-08-04T10:53:00.002-07:00

I absolutely love this song by the White Rock folk-indie band, The Oh Wells. They performed last weekend at the Spirit of the Sea but I missed them due to a bout of sunstroke. Coincidentally, lead singer Sarah Jinkling did as well. See them live at Cates Park in North Vancouver this Saturday at 6pm.

Spirit of the Sea Festival 2011

2011-08-02T12:26:00.016-07:00

I had a great time at the Spirit Of The Sea Festival here in White Rock this weekend. The free, family event was held right on the Promenade and included market shopping, live bands like Behind Sapphire and The Oh Wells, a BBQ by the Kiwanis Club, the famous torchlight parade and fireworks on Saturday night. If I'm still living here next year I am going to volunteer my time and hopefully help them tweak a few things that seemed to get overlooked. You know me, I like a good challenge!

Happy Pride, Vancouver!

2011-07-31T13:52:00.004-07:00

Sad to be missing it but you can check out my photos from last year here. hope everyone has a great weekend and enjoys the fun and inclusive parade put on by the Vancouver Pride Society.

RIP Amy Winehouse

2011-07-23T12:24:00.001-07:00

My Weekend

2011-07-18T13:49:00.001-07:00

Tanya & Ian T.

July 16, 2011

The Summer So Far

2011-07-14T14:23:00.005-07:00

I've been really taking my camera everywhere lately and catching some amazing things on the fly. The weather has been great for photo walks with a bit of sun and cloud most days. The rainbow was actually a FULL DOUBLE RAINBOW, but even my wide angle couldn't get it all in one shot. It was pretty beautiful to see one end in British Columbia and the other in Washington State. Hope you are enjoying some outdoor time where ever you are.

Canada Day 2011 In Surrey, BC

2011-07-03T12:25:00.004-07:00

Here is just some photos that were taken on Canada Day in Cloverdale,BC on Friday. The family themed event was put on by the City of Surrey and including many activities and performances by the Peak Performance Top 20 as well as old favourites Trooper and Harlequin on the main stage. I was able to catch a few of the performances but honestly, it was really hard to see everything in one day. I was there for 6 hours and didn't see all the Top 20, Trooper or the Fireworks Show!

Much thanks to the great team behind this event for putting on yet another successful,fun and free event. Don't miss the Fusion Festival on July 16th and 17th at Holland Park in Surrey!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-07-01T12:19:00.001-07:00

What's Up?

2011-06-26T11:35:00.003-07:00

Good morning all. Sitting here at my desk looking out over the fountain and wishing it would magically turn into a pool. The weather in White Rock has been beautiful lately despite what the grumblers in Vancouver keep saying. Still searching for the elusive job that seems to be playing hide and seek with me lately. I had an interview last week for The Worst Job Ever. And they want me back for another interview on Monday but I'm not going. The pay was horrible and the supervisor told me to expect to cry at least once a month. Who says that?? Anyway, with the commute,lousy pay and added stress, I could make more in town at Starbucks with tips. So I'm back at it...but feeling a lot better about my journey than before. I'm unemployed, not unemployable.

Today will be a day of Farmer's Markets, walking to the beach and reading a great book with the sounds of the waves in the background. My best friend is coming out tomorrow to see the Black Keys for a belated birthday bash. So excited!

Whatever you end up doing, do it well and often! Seacrest out!

Summed Up Nicely

2011-06-17T18:01:00.002-07:00

Watching the Canucks vs Boston Game 4 In Vancouver

2011-06-10T01:07:00.011-07:00

I think he made our away game luck disappear.

I love this. All ethnicities..we are all Canucks.

Fans for a few years I see.

I have no idea.

A few people showed up.

...they brought their friends.

Roaming Dragon!

Canada Place had a small turnout due to poor location of the screen during daylight.

Whether you are a hardcore fan, casual watcher or straight up bandwagon-er, get on board the Stanley Cup Express and head down to Georgia and Homer for a fun, free and once-in-40years chance to watch our Vancouver Canucks bring the Stanley Cup home with 30-60,000 of your closest friends. I've done it once and hope to do it again this weekend for game 6. It's completely family friendly but if we win, I wouldn't recommend having little ones on Granville. While safety isn't an issue, it's very loud and just not the place for a stroller. Local food trucks are on hand, plenty of restrooms and a relaxed and party-like atmosphere. Go check it out!

Last Night

2011-06-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

This Says It All Doesn't It?

2011-06-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Image via PostSecret

I Love My New Phone

2011-05-27T18:15:00.001-07:00

Vancouver Canucks Win The 2011 Western Conference

2011-05-24T23:17:00.001-07:00

Next stop, the Stanley Cup Finals. WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Happy Rapture, Bitchez!

2011-05-21T11:51:00.000-07:00

Sooo...

2011-05-16T14:46:00.007-07:00

...you may have noticed less and less from jaxsaid. I haven't abandoned it. Not at all. It's just that right this very second and every other in my day I need to be focused on something more important. FOR NOW. And I'm hoping that means a few weeks.

I miss doing stuff to post for the blog like crazy but the reality is that it doesn't pay squat right now. So while I do my thing trying to hustle my ass off in a non-sex trade worker kinda way...I promise I will keep posting here and there. I just can't dedicate a lot of funds to attending events that won't give me media access for the sake of being there. Having said that, if you do have a new album or mixtape coming out or a cool show coming up you want me to write about or shoot-send me a message. I'll do my best to get there. Or just say hey..I could use the distraction sometimes.

People who've been reading the blog since it's conception will see a change too. I realized awhile ago that the reason I was having a hard time writing posts was that I was trying to stifle the person I was in my writing for what I thought people wanted. While trying to make it look and sound more "professional" I ended up writing my personality right out of the picture. There is probably a few reasons I went that route,none that matter any more, and so I made a conscious decision to be more present in my writing and photography going forward. A friend reminded me the reason she came here was for my view, for me and how I write. I have to believe that any success I've had in the last three years has been from just being myself.

I mean, come on? The last five months clearly proves I can't be anyone else.

RIP Bob Marley

2011-05-11T08:53:00.000-07:00

Awake

2011-05-10T08:45:00.003-07:00

Great new video for one of my favorite bands, The Autumn Portrait. Shot in Vancouver in February, the video tells the timeless story of boy meets girl and all the heartbreak that entails. The song can be found on their The Design Is Over album available for download on their website. I can't wait to see more videos from the album. Let's make that happen,k?

For more on Freddie and the guys,checkout my review I did for the cd when it was released.

Love Yo Momma

2011-05-08T12:45:00.002-07:00

Image via Postsecret.

What The Fuck, Canada?

2011-05-03T11:27:00.000-07:00

4 more years of this shit.

Osama Bin Laden Dead

2011-05-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Just Wed

2011-04-29T21:21:00.001-07:00

Congrats to the happy couple! Hopefully they are registered at Wal-mart for hand towels and fancy picture frames.

Happy Earth Day

2011-04-22T22:40:00.001-07:00

Vancouver Convention Center

Party For The Planet 2011

2011-04-18T19:39:00.013-07:00

George Leach

Aidan Knight

Hannah Georgas

Spirit Of The West

Yet another great free event put on by the City of Surrey. This two day event celebrating Earth Day featured zip lining, a bike powered tv stage and the music of Spirit Of The West, George Leach, Hannah Georgas and Aidan Knight. Next up is Canada Day- don't miss it!

Party For The Planet This Weekend!

2011-04-13T14:22:00.004-07:00

Do I see Elmo?? Yessss. I probably won't see Elmo in person (who knows) but I will be there for Aidan Knight, Hannah Georgas, Greg Sczebel and Spirit of the West. Come down and check it out at Central City Plaza in Surrey, BC. All the deets are here.

My Current Mindset

2011-04-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

Vancouver

2011-04-09T20:05:00.001-07:00

Hollywood Meets Beastie Boys

2011-04-07T23:25:00.001-07:00

A Sweet Taste Of Victoria

2011-04-03T23:30:00.010-07:00

I had so many shots from my trip to Victoria last week, I thought I'd put up a second post dedicated to the sweet tooth in me. I ate much more but forgot to take some pictures a few times. Oops. It took all I had to deny myself one of these fuckin incredible caramel apples from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Next time.

Frozen delicacies from On The Go Gelato in the Tsawwassen Quay Market at the Ferry terminal.
Lolly Gobble Sweet Shop in Sydney was a fun distraction to find all your fave childhood candy. I found a few things you can't get at Candy Aisle and for a much more reasonable price.

My Earliest Musical Memory

2011-04-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

Vancouver

2011-04-01T22:06:00.004-07:00

A Day & Night In Victoria

2011-03-29T00:11:00.023-07:00

I needed to get away for a few days to chillax and was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed Victoria. For years it has been described as a tourist haven or a large retirement Island but in the past decade it's gone through a lot of restoration and changes that have added even more culture and character to a community already brimming with energy and activities for young and old. From Chinatown to Market Square, to Inner Harbour and Government Street, Victoria is the perfect getaway for single travellers and families alike. With a city that boasts more restaurants per capita than any other Canadian city, your biggest decision of the day will be where to eat. I stopped for Chinese food in Chinatown and a drink at Irish Times as well as breakfast at the famous eatery John's Place. My hotel, the Rialto was located on Pandora. Within 5mins is Chinatown, Market Square, Johnson Street and the Inner harbour. Everything is very walk-able and a car isn't necessary unless you plan to travel around the island and only results in high ferry as well as parking fees. I had such an amazing time in Victoria and Sydney I'm already planning to go back in the next few weeks. And this time I'm hitting up Cafe Mexico!

St. Patrick's Day Done Right

2011-03-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

Daniel Wesley Band - Driftin

2011-03-15T10:51:00.000-07:00

Dan Wesley At Rock Sugar

2011-03-15T01:02:00.007-07:00

Daniel Wesley brought his band back to Rock Sugar in Langley Friday night for a homecoming that included a great performance, screaming bar stars and beat downs by the bouncers. Just another night in Langley City. Wesley played such hits as "Ooh ooh" and "Driftin" as well as a few others I can't seem to recall because I was drawn to the 4 on 1 fight at the back of the bar.

If you can see The Daniel Wesley Band near you, check him out. He puts on a great set of chilled out-let's-go-to-the-beach-right-now-music. If it's at Rock Sugar, keep an eye on your drink and wear a Kevlar vest. And if you're a photographer,skip it. Apparently the bar can't afford to point a SINGLE LIGHT on the man. Worst shots ever.

How Could I Resist?

2011-03-10T10:15:00.001-08:00

This Kinda Day

2011-03-09T19:55:00.001-08:00

Crescent Park At Sunset

2011-03-08T16:21:00.001-08:00

MotherMoon

2011-03-07T11:29:00.006-08:00

Normally I would not be posting about a show in Toronto when I live in Vancouver,but I've just come across a great new artist from New York's East Village, who in short, is amazing.

MotherMoon has the sound reminiscent of a time long before she was born and a talent that will grow with each note. Compared to Norah Jones and Billie Holiday, singer Ashley Selett has the smooth and hypnotic voice perfect for an afternoon of new memories with someone special or a simple day in the sun. Listening to "Heat" from her album "Writing In The Sky" is a nostalgic journey to a time when a voice and a melody meant something and were the foundation of any great career. Let's hope this continues for MotherMoon because she's won me over and I can't wait to see her live in Vancouver sometime soon. You can listen to a sample of her songs here.

And if you live in Toronto, she has her first Canadian show coming up this weekend at Czehowski. Catch MotherMoon live March 12, 2011 at 11pm for her part in Canadian Music Fest and let me know what you thought if you go!

Sunday Secrets

2011-03-06T16:35:00.002-08:00

No. No, you are not. She bugs me too and I used to be a big fan of Poprah. I think she jumped the shark with the whole James Frey thing. Sanctimonious, thy name is Oprah.

Image via Postsecret.

Hey Rosetta "Red Heart" At The Rio Theatre

2011-03-05T10:59:00.000-08:00

Hey Rosetta At The Rio Theatre

2011-03-05T03:36:00.015-08:00

Hey Rosetta put on a beautifully arranged set to a sold out crowd at the Rio Theatre on Friday night that I was lucky enough to cover. Gramercy Riffs opened the show and were new to me. A friend ended up picking up a copy of their album so I will be checking that out for sure. Hey Rosetta played a few new songs such as "Seeds" from their new EP and some of the (already) classics from their second album such as "Red Heart" and "I've Been Asleep For A Long Long Time."

But what really stole the show was a cover of Cindy Lauper's "Time After Time." Amazing. You gotta see it. Dan Mangan did!

They have another concert Saturday night- go.

I Miss Hot Nick Cage From Valley Girl

2011-03-02T19:57:00.002-08:00

That is all. I'd stop the world and melt with him. Like, for sure.

New INXS Video For Don't Change

2011-03-01T18:59:00.003-08:00

A big part of my attraction to INXS was Michael Hutchence, so to hear a song by them without his voice, or even JD Fortune or Terence Trent D'arby is kinda odd. After listening to it a few times I do like it. Thoughts?

Charlie Sheen According To Dave

2011-02-28T22:19:00.002-08:00

I so love that the first thing I've seen thus far about Sheenisms comes from someone I know. This great piece was done by David Gagnon to capture the effervescent Carlos Estevez as a life coach.

Surrey's Winterfest 2011

2011-02-27T10:36:00.016-08:00

The City of Surrey put on their annual Winterfest yesterday in Central City Plaza and what a winter wonderland it turned out to be! From Olympic athletes and Cirque Surrey to evening performances by Shaun Verreault, Kyprios and Hot Hot Heat, the crowds that were there were not deterred by a little snow. Children enjoyed tobogganing, ice skating, face painting and the always tempting hot chocolate and mini donuts while the adults cuddled on the ferris wheel or nipped in to Central City Brewery to "warm up" in between some hockey and various live entertainment that included a look back at the 2010 Olympics.

Both Shaun Verreault and Kyprios put on good show as always with Kyprios keeping the beats flowing and the crowd moving despite a heavy snowfall halfway through his set. The crowd hit its peak when he started the first few notes to City Woman and were only disappointed when he left the stage. Unfortunately we did not stay for Hot Hot Heat as we were Cold Cold Cool.

Much thanks to Melissa Snow and the City of Surrey, who put on a great event despite a smaller crowd due to the weather. I hope it continues and grows because it's definitely on my list for next year. And so are the mini donuts.

Winterfest Today!!!!

2011-02-26T14:06:00.001-08:00

Old Timey Sax

2011-02-22T22:05:00.002-08:00

Photo from Powerhouse Museum Collection

Sam Babicci in 1930, Australia.

Vogville Day & Night Festival

2011-02-21T17:44:00.016-08:00

The Autumn Portrait

By Starlight

City Of Glass

I spent Saturday afternoon at Vogville's Day & Night Festival showcasing some of Vancouver's greatest indie bands. The event went on well past midnight but I was only there for most of the daytime shows including The Autumn Portrait, By Starlight and City of Glass. I hadn't heard much of the last two and was happy to walk away with a cd and review coming up later this week from City Of Glass. The Alpen Club provided an interesting venue filled with culture,a bouncing floor and great acoustics from what I heard. Oh, and the fraulien in the German Beermaid outfit was a nice touch behind the bar. Much thanks to Jonathan Fluevog of Vogville Studios and Happy Planet for putting together a cool all ages show on what should have been a rainy Saturday afternoon. Had the sun not fought its way through the BC clouds, I'm sure the crowds would have been bigger. If it comes around next year, I plan to check out the evening shows and see how the above 15 set does it.

Let Your Lovelight Shine

2011-02-20T11:36:00.001-08:00

Zero 7 Left Behind

2011-02-17T11:12:00.001-08:00

This song is only just over a minute long but spoke to me in the same way a full length ballad could. A definite favorite.

Pepere's Workbench

2011-02-16T00:44:00.002-08:00

Las Teclas De Negros

2011-02-14T17:41:00.001-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T10:04:00.002-08:00

Even though it's not Sunday, take a look through PostSecret's Valentine themed batch today. Hope you all have a great day with someone you love- even if it's by yourself!

Mother Mother At John Lawson Park

2011-02-13T12:41:00.002-08:00

Checked out the Said The Whale & Mother Mother show at John Lawson Park on Friday and although it was wet and nasty underfoot, both bands put on a great show for the mostly under age crowd. Aside from the complete lack of planning on the event organizer's part regarding the muddy conditions and crowd control at the front of the stage, everyone appeared to be having a good night out enjoying free live music. I'd definitely go again, but I'd wear rubber boots and a thick slicker.

Old Timey Manitoba

2011-02-11T10:22:00.007-08:00

Winnipeg In One Photo

2011-02-08T10:13:00.002-08:00

Facebook Ad Fail

2011-02-03T21:43:00.002-08:00

Nickelback Album Sale!

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Are there a few albums missing from your collection? The entire Nickelback discography is priced under $6 on iTunes!

Happy 90th Birthday To My Grampa

2011-02-02T16:52:00.003-08:00

Three Crazy Years Later

2011-01-30T10:19:00.010-08:00

Image via Postsecret

Three years a go today I was sitting in a small office in a technology company, watching the clock tick away and hating every fucking minute of it. Something had to change, or I was going to be climbing a bell tower soon. Heath Ledger had just died a week prior and the media vultures were already speculating. I was angry. Not just about that, but about everything and I'm not sure what got me to ultimately do it but I felt compelled like never before to stand up and be heard. I had done some blogging to help out a friend in the past,but never anything on my own, so I was a bit shy about it at first. I knew what I wanted to say but I was shy to put it out there for the blogworld to read. After a few phone calls with unhappy customers and run-ins with upper management my patience had worn thin enough that I was ready to do this. I logged on to blogger,picked a quick template, a name (stemming from being a blogger commenter named Jax) and sat back in my chair to think about what would be my first post. As I was sitting there thinking, one of the older micro-managers came in to bitch and complain about someone else and I had it. This was the result.

Was it the profound message I had hoped to spread? No. I was pissed off and she hit my last nerve...so I wrote about it. And I felt better. So I wrote about something everyday that pissed me off and that felt good too! Soon I was capturing all my rage and posting it online to amuse my friends and sometimes make them think. This went on for a few years and then somewhere along the way I stopped being pissed off. I wasn't angry about as much. I had lost my job due to the economy,yet I never once blogged about how fucking unfair it was or how my whole life was going to have to change. Instead I found a new focus, first being the Olympics. When that was over I changed the template on my blog and became what I had been aspiring to for the last 3 years without knowing it...a blogger. I am not the same person I was back then. Maybe not even a year ago and I can't help but think that blogging has been a big part of that. I've been to Europe,China, seen countless live shows,interviewed musicians, authors and reality stars. I've met celebs,politicians,great innovative people and complete fucking morons. Besides meeting some amazing friends through it, my blog has given me a voice and passion I never dreamed was in me and confidence to get out there and make it happen.

I'm still out here, still trying to make it happen, but I am a whole lot happier.

And if we haven't met yet- I'm Jax. This is my blog and I'm glad to meet you.

Virgin Radio's Fake Film Festival

2011-01-29T02:37:00.002-08:00

I went down to the 560 Club tonight to check out Virgin Radio's Fake Film Festival with some of my girlfriends at the old A&B Sound Store on Seymour. Great new club but their trying-to-prove-how-cool-we-are bathrooms are not ideal. The unisex bathroom concept is fine but for the love of god...put some damn walls up to separate the bathroom from the club, that is just wrong. Wrong. Anyway, the food was pretty good and the SKYY vodka was going down well. It even featured a performance by Toronto's Sweet Thing. I hadn't heard much of them before, but they put on a show that had the crowd in a good mood and appeared to have a lot of local fans.

The winner of the $10,000 was this one for Scott Pilgrim,but my personal favorite was above. For 60 seconds, these movies are incredibly well done. I completely respect how much time went into making a 1 minute movie. Amazing job. Check em all out on YouTube.

A Calm Day On The Water

2011-01-28T12:43:00.001-08:00

The Time Has Come

2011-01-26T09:54:00.002-08:00

RUN DMC 2.0

2011-01-25T09:01:00.001-08:00

Diggy Simmons- {Shook Ones Freestyle} from philthegod. on Vimeo.

Not a bad first effort from a second generation rapper from the Simmons family.

Emo Monday

2011-01-24T23:28:00.000-08:00

Nathaniel Wong At The Media Club

2011-01-22T23:53:00.011-08:00

Nathaniel Wong at The Media Club in Vancouver

I spent Friday night checking out Nathaniel Wong from Yes Nice at the Media Club in Vancouver. I had never been to the venue before, believe it or not, and was looking forward to checking out a new space. It's a lot smaller than I pictured. But it's an intimate spot with decent sound and actual toilet paper in the bathrooms. Seriously, what is *up* with that, club owners? Anyway, Nathaniel Wong put on a great little show that included the Yes Nice hit, "Horses." as well as "Mountain Man." This was also my first time seeing anyone from the band perform before as I had missed their Peak Performance Showcase at the Red Room. For just one person and a guitar he put on an entertaining and sincere acoustic show. It will be interesting to see what he's like with a full band.

I plan to keep my eyes open for Yes Nice to perform somewhere close soon. I've been a big fan of their music so far and if Tourism Vancouver doesn't make a video using the song "Horses," they are fkn crazy. Really.

Strike Another From The Bucket List

2011-01-20T14:17:00.004-08:00

As a young offender growing up and getting up to "no good" in Abbotsford, Ice Cube and NWA were the soundtrack of my young, rebellious life. When Eazy-E died from HIV on March 26,1995 my dream of seeing NWA live died with him. Now 16 years later, I finally will get a chance to see Ice Cube at the Commodore Ballroom on March 22.

I may not be the kid up to no good anymore, but I'll always be a chick who digs gangsta rap. I'm not sure why I never went the other times he's come to Vancouver, but I just printed off my ticket and this mutherphucker is mine.

About To Watch Valley Girl For the 300th Time

2011-01-14T19:12:00.001-08:00

The Mood For The Morning

2011-01-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

I Love Everything About This Video

2011-01-10T12:11:00.000-08:00

Speech from Arrested Development At Fusion Festival

2011-01-09T00:45:00.000-08:00

Surrey, BC 2010

Happy Birthday To The King Of Rock & Roll

2011-01-08T10:04:00.001-08:00

Last Sunset At White Rock Beach Of 2010

2011-01-04T10:37:00.002-08:00

This image has also been slightly manipulated using picnik. The original wasn't much different, I just boosted the saturation a bit. White Rock, BC.

Top Pick Of 2010

2011-01-01T13:43:00.003-08:00

2010 has been a great year for me and for music. I was so lucky to get to see a lot of live performances and hear some new music from people that were new to me and to Vancouver. Regular readers to the the blog know that I have a big love for local artists like We Are The City,Bodhi Jones, The Autumn Portrait, Dan Mangan and Adaline. They each bring their own brand of music to the table but for me my standout was Christopher Arruda for Top Pick of 2010. His album God Hates A Coward is slice of unpolished musical genius in a way words cannot describe. Seriously. It beat out Kanye West and variety of other big names for the front-runner despite being recorded in a house in Nanaimo. Don't get me wrong, I loved all the stuff I was able to hear this year. From hip hop to indie rock to alternative, I've discovered some great new bands for my library. But the type that really resonates with me are songs and albums that tell a story from beginning to end. And that's what stood out for me with Arruda's LP. He had a knack for painting a picture for the audience in notes and melodies that some don't. From song to song, each carried a bit of a theme from the one before to weave together a great album. A fantastic effort from a local songwriter.

I was able to chat with Christopher backstage at The Rio a few weeks ago and we talked about Lank Chop, the strongest song on GHAC, in my opinion.

"You know that song has never been performed live?"

"What? That song needs to be seen and heard. It's not online anywhere."

"It's just not a four piece song. You need horns,you need backup singers...I just can't rework that song with a 4 piece. If I was going to do it, I'd have to have a whole stage of people and I just haven't had the desire to do that yet."

As disappointed as I was to hear that, I totally respected Arruda for his dedication to the music and keeping it authentic to his vision. It's a shame though- cuz it's a fucking great song.

Sunset At White Rock Beach

2010-12-30T19:48:00.000-08:00

This has been slightly manipulated using picnik but the original was pretty close,just a bit lighter in colour.

A Holiday Message

2010-12-23T17:30:00.005-08:00

Thank you to everyone I've had the pleasure of working with over the past year. Like all the amazing talented artists, the PR reps, the agents, my e-friends,my friends IRL and all my family...I could NOT have done this without you. And by "this" I mean I could not have taken the leap of faith it took to go after a dream.

I'm still chasing it,but with passion and inspiration from the love of all of you!

Merry Christmas to you all.

The Intimate Piano Recital At The Rio

2010-12-20T02:33:00.010-08:00

The Peak's Cory Ashworth

Monica Lee

Christopher Arruda

Hilary Grist

Edo Van Beeman

Adaline

C.R. Avery

I was lucky enough to see the Intimate Piano Recital at the Rio last Thursday and I was completely blown away! I was a little apprehensive about my attention span with just a piano filled show, but I really enjoyed it from beginning it end. Each artist was different from the next. From Christopher Arruda's dramatic melodies to Adaline's delicate and beautiful notes, the audience was both inspired and entertained. The night also included music from Monica Lee, C.R. Avery, Edo Van Breeman of Brasstronaut and Hilary Grist. Aside from Arruda, Adaline and Edo in Brasstronaut, I had not seen any of them prior and left with plan to seek out more of their music in the future. The night also would not have been possible without a purpose for it all and this year it was World Vision and Insite. Props to the artists willing to throw in a free cd with sponsorship of a child. The Peak's Cory Ashworth was on hand to provide hosting duties and make cringe worthy, yet hilarious, jokes. Check it out next year, I will!

Feliz Navidad From Endway

2010-12-18T13:01:00.002-08:00

Just saw this for the first time this morning. Will be definitely checking out there other stuff. Enjoy some Endway.

I Can't Believe It's Only A Week Until Christmas

2010-12-18T02:02:00.001-08:00

It's That Kinda Day

2010-12-13T15:11:00.001-08:00

A Great Xmas Mashup

2010-12-10T12:58:00.001-08:00

New Swollen Members Album Out In March 2011

2010-12-08T22:22:00.004-08:00

Mad Child confirms via Twitter that a new album called Dagger Mouth should be out in March as well as some solo stuff, both going back to their roots. Jaxsaid will be reviewing the album and possibly getting a chance to talk with Swollen Members about going back to their original sound and what's changed since 2002.

Goodbye Canada's Funnyman

2010-11-28T18:06:00.001-08:00

Leslie Nielsen 1926-2010

Happy Thanksgiving America!

2010-11-25T15:39:00.001-08:00

The Autumn Portrait CD Release Party

2010-11-21T11:56:00.009-08:00

Comedian Jaz Holloran kicked it off with some hilarious, awkward stand up.

Bodhi Jones singing to the Musical Jesus.

Check out the Movember:

Christopher Arruda on piano..

...and guitar.

Adaline tickling the ivories for one of her songs.

Freddie Mojallal fo The Autumn Portrait.

The Autumn Portrait killing it onstage.

Noel Planet guesting on backup vocals for "The Light."

What a great night out for comedy and music. It was a small show at Cambrian Hall but it had a nice, cosy and intimate feel to it. Everyone seemed to have a good time despite the snowy weather outside. Inside it was all talent and no egos. I look forward to seeing all of these artists again soon.

The Peak Performance Project Finale

2010-11-19T16:56:00.013-08:00

Vince Vaccaro

Vince Vaccaro featuring Christopher Arruda on drums.

Said The Whale

Said The Whale and the 2010 Top 20 Peak Performance Project

Kyprios,first place winner of the 2010 PPP.

The peak 100.5 on air personalities. Tamara, Laurie, James & Peter.

Confetti Canon!

....annnnd scene.

Another successful end to the The Peak 100.5 & Music BC's Peak Performance Project. The party is over and the winner has been declared: Kyprios! Everyone really thought Said The Whale was going to take it and honestly, so did I. Everyone this year in the Top 20 really blew me away. So much talent it makes me proud to be from BC. Whoever came in first was fine by me.

Final results were:

Kyprios in first being awarded $100 500.

Said The Whale in 2rd with $75 000 and Vince Vaccaro in 3rd with $50 000.

Dan Mangan At The Vogue Saturday Night

2010-11-14T16:42:00.013-08:00

Dan Mangan At The Vogue Theater November 13, 2010

I was lucky enough to get a chance to see Dan Mangan for the first time on Saturday night at the Vogue Theatre and what a fucking great show it was! I haven't been to a live concert that interactive in a very longtime. It was a cozy atmosphere that seemed more like a sing-a-long than a legit live show. And the crowd LOVED it. I mean when was the last time you saw a singer turn HIS mic around and face the audience for them to sing one of his most popular songs? From "Sold" to "Robots" I, and the people around me, belted it out with as much as passion as the man we all paid to see. It's official, Furry Dan has another fan.

At one point, I turned to my friend to compare Mangan to Canadian legend Gordon Lightfoot. The music, though slightly different in genre and concept, brought people together on the same level. I can only hope that Dan Mangan has that kind of longevity, because I certainly look forward to the music.

Lest We Forget

2010-11-11T09:18:00.004-08:00

In Flanders fields the poppies blow, Between the crosses, row on row.

The Autumn Portrait - The Design Is Over

2010-11-04T02:34:00.013-07:00

When a friend sent me a copy of The Autumn Portrait's new album, The Design Is Over, I was hesitant to do an album review. Not because I didn't think I couldn't do it. I could, even as a first time review, I think I am pretty non biased in my musical tastes. But what if I didn't like it? What if it was shite? Then what? How do you spin that?

Well I need not worry. I really like this album. Now brace yourself, I'm going to be making some comparisons. Singer Freddie Mojallal's voice is so versatile from song to song you hear different influences in each chorus. From melancholy ballads like "The Light" to Sam Robert's and Cobain's lovechild on "The City" each song builds a great mood for any listener looking for something new and away from classic mainstream radio. Dyllon Mitchell on Bass and Sean Lavoy on drums add to the sound one has a hard time pinning down. I've read several opinions, each one different. From Muse, The Strokes to Kings of Leon, The Pixies to Radiohead, each listener finds their own comparison with all ultimately deciding they like it...whatever it's "supposed" to be.

Modern indie rock is not like it used to be. It's not a sketchy cassette bought at Scratch Records from the early 90's. The music is well arranged and mixed by Tom Dobrzanski ( We Are The City, The Zolas, Said The Whale) with the same quality and sound of any household name entertainer. The difference is the refreshing take on modern music and experimenting with different genres of rock on the same album. Mojallal's voice takes you from "Carousel" that reminds one of early Liam Gallagher, of notorious Oasis fame, and then on to an alterna-pop sound on "A Mile Away" reminiscent of any good soundtrack- in a movie and in real life.

The Vancouver based band, now releasing their first full length album after last year's EP, "The Light" will be performing at HMV on Robson & Burrard this Sunday and on November 20th at The Cambrian Hall. To purchase the album online and find out where you can see Freddie and the guys next, hit up their website, The Autumn Portrait.

Halloween Wrap Up 2010

2010-11-01T09:25:00.008-07:00

This was one of the event staff from Rogue Wetbar. The picture doesn't do it justice.

The ghost of Michael Jackson and child.

RUN DMC. RIP to Jam Master Jay who passed 6 years ago.

Red Riding Hood Hell.

That was some of the smoothest ass I have come across.

STOP! Hammer time!

WWJW4H. What would Jesus wear for Halloween? Carwash attendant.

Ace and Gary contemplating their sexuality.

Canucks Green Men.

THIS GUY! Reading at a bar? Ya, like we believe he can really read.

Who ya gonna call?

Thankfully not Dj-ing....

Pee Wee checking his email.

Facebook. AND you can write on his wall. Brilliant.

Hide yo kids, hide yo wife!

Inside Rogue about 5 mins before 4 people were shot 100ft down the block.

Sonny Crocket passed TFO.

Look at you, now look at me,now loook at my towel,now look at me drool.

Clever man, he gave out these.

Happy Halloween from Jax!

We Are The City At Breakout West

2010-10-25T00:26:00.010-07:00

The boys from Kelowna put on a another great performance at Habitat this weekend for Breakout West in their homecoming show. The place was packed at the all ages concert and many Peak Performance members, past and present, were in attendance taking in the 50 minute set.

Aidan Knight jumping up on stage for a hand with the tambourine was a crowd favorite along with the last song of the night, Astronomers. I've seen them twice now and I both times I was completely impressed with the talent of Andy, Cayne and David. And as humble as they are talented to boot. Not to be missed next time they are in your town.