Taking a break for a bit.

There’s no shortage of talent with singer-songwriter Carmela Antonio. Rooted in an indie-pop/RnB sound effortlessly combined with elements of hip-hop, dub, and world influences, Antonio delivered powerfully sweet vocals-equally soulful and edgy-radiating an onstage charisma and sass to a receptive audience. Backed by musicians on conga drums and keyboards, she performed enticing, energy-fueled songs highlighted by a three song medley and a dedication to her grandfather. Embracing a feisty attitude and dynamic presence, this talented songstress is clearly worthy of more attention.

Jeremy Ellis ripping it up on a Maschine Mikro.
            

“Going To Hell” by the Brian Jonestown Massacre. Apparently in 2012, that’s where the world is heading according to The Mayans. Shameless plug. I’m also the moderator of the forum on the BJM’s (actually Anton Newcombe’s) website. Right here.

If there’s anything better than a show as Christmas draws nearer, it’s a show during the festive season that also doubles as a birthday party. Playing to a venue filled with supporters, Maybe Refuge delivered uptempo alt-rock infused with anthemic choruses, guitar-driven energy, and a melodic sensibility. And in keeping with the “There Will Be Cake” theme of the night, the crowd was rewarded with ice cream cake following their set to celebrate the birthday of guitarist John, further proving that rock’n roll catering (in this case Dairy Queen) comes in many forms. As Maybe Refuge continues to grow as performers, it was definitely a show to remember for a band that promises bright things ahead.

There’s a lot of psych-rock love crossed with riff-fueled garage rock with Queen Licorice that any fan of vintage neo-psychedelia can appreciate. Understanding the importance of keeping the flame of 60s-inspired garage rock alive, the band established a live presence with fuzzed-out guitars, echo-laden vocals, flower-power jams, and a bluesy edge, while pumping up the rock’n roll energy. Many hallmarks of the past are embedded in their sound, yet this is music that also sounds contemporary, embracing a spirit that continues to cast a spell decades later.

Someone decided to cobble together clips of people going holy-crazy-epileptic during church services to Slayer. m/Hallelujahm/

Attitude means everything for The Lost Babies. Rooted in a New York post-punk style, this four-piece also skirt the edges of classic rock and indie rock, navigating through driving guitar riffs, exuberant drumming, and a grooving rhythm section, underscored by the charismatic presence of frontwoman Valerie Messy, belting out vocals and radiating a genuine passion for performing by flailing and rock-posturing to an enthusiastic crowd. It’s a frenetic sound, but while relying on loads of swagger and energy, The Lost Babies are traveling down the familiar streets of rock’n roll.
            

“Schoolhouse Rock” were short educational cartoons aired on Saturday mornings in the mid-70s. This is how children were taught on television…with James Brown funk and OK Computer-style keyboards.

Establishing themselves in Edmonton and relocating to Toronto, it’s clear Christian Hansen & the Autistics are determined to make a statement round these parts. While the recordings have an artsy disco-dance-pop quality, the bands ability as an energetic live presence also comes to the fore, drawing on an indie-rock spirit while achieving a balance between retro dance-pop and a hint of British post-punk, punctuated with dynamic vocals, shining keyboards, cheeky harmonies and boundless energy. A strong band with the potential to appeal to a wider audience, they just might grow on you.