Two of the best sources for thoughtful modern music, publicist Killbeat Music and DJ, VJ and PJ Laurie Brown collaborated on a podcast earlier this year and they have done so again. Ponderbeat 2 includes Begonia, Folly and the Hunter, Great Lake Swimmers, Dan Mangan, Rae Spoon and others including a cover of the Cranberries, “Dreams’ by Liza Anne.
Five Festivals to Spring into: Guelph, Hamilton, Picton, Sarnia and TO
Kazoo! Fest Guelph Apr 11 to 15
So many bands, so much art, so much to do, Kazoo! is a celebration of the Royal City, with night markets and print expos and bands, bands, bands. And unless I gather you are deeply involved with Guelph’s underground scene builders you won’t know any of the bands, or maybe its just me. I know one Hymns 57. But if you want the definition of community builders then look to Kazoo.
County Pop Picton Apr 28
Elliott Brood headlines the Prince Edward County based fest organised by Zunior.com and community partners. The all-day event runs Saturday Apr 28 at the Crystal Palace in Picton. Also on the bill Miss Emily, Lindsay Ferguson and KASHKA. Its family friendly so lots of activities for the children and its in the County so lots of great local food, wines, brews.
Empty Fest Sarnia May 3, 4, 5
Polaris Prize winner Lido Pimienta leads the line-up for this 10th anniversary celebration of the Imperial City’s indie festival. Everything from psych, world, punk, synth-pop, big-band, folk, experimental and more will be heard over the three days taking place in four venues in the downtown. There are a lot of local acts, Bad Habit, Faids, Horseless Headmen and Gucc among them. Moon Dog will be travelling from Detroit. There is a free launch party March 30 featuring Yamantaka/ Sonic Titan.
21C Music Festival May 23- 27
Eight concerts, five days, 21C brings together some of todays most innovative musicians and composers. Kronos Quartet, Katia and Marielle Labeque, Simone Dinnerstein among them.
Hamilton Liquid Art Festival June 15 16
Juno winners The Beaches with help launch the first Collective Arts Festival. The brewery will host brewers from across the globe. Line-up includes Lost Cousins, Mt. Joy and Jane’s Party plus more.