MUSIC PREVIEW: Blink-182’s mature immaturity

MUSIC PREVIEW: Blink-182’s mature immaturity

Paul the Apostle had something to say about Blink-182: “When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child – but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” Times sure have changed! And one could find no better rock band to embody […]

Prince still Sexy MF in musician’s memory

Prince still Sexy MF in musician’s memory

Local soulman Jeff Hendrick has picked an interesting tune to pay homage to Prince at the tribute show on Friday. It’s one of the late great artist’s best songs (from among many), from one of his best albums (among many): the 1992 release whose title was the symbol Prince once changed his name to (long […]

Middle Eastern musician finds muse in Edmonton

Middle Eastern musician finds muse in Edmonton

Mohsin Zaman lived most of his life in Dubai, United Arab Emirates – and only when he came to Edmonton did he start seriously making music. Now he sounds “Albertan.” Coincidence? Maybe. Maybe not. The 29-year-old singer-songwriter says he had a “strict upbringing” from his hard-working Pakistani parents, who moved to Dubai in 1978. The […]

NDP MLA puts music to public service

NDP MLA puts music to public service

The list of professional musicians elected to government office is very short indeed. In fact, David Shepherd – MLA for Edmonton-Centre – seems to be the only example in Alberta history. He performs Thursday at the Needle Vinyl Tavern: “Shepapalooza” – also featuring White Lightning and Ben Spencer – which turns out to be a […]

MUSIC PREVIEW: Sloan ranger, away!

MUSIC PREVIEW: Sloan ranger, away!

The revered Halifax act Sloan brings their One Chord To Another 20 year anniversary tour to Edmonton this weekend, playing a sold out gig at the Needle Vinyl Tavern on Friday. The indie rockers have managed to retain their four member roster throughout their evolutions and devolutions, from their debut full-length Smeared in 1992, through […]

MUSIC PREVIEW: The Needle and the damage undone

MUSIC PREVIEW: The Needle and the damage undone

All hail the new Sidetrack Cafe! Whoa, talk about high expectations for the new Needle Vinyl Tavern, which makes its grand opening in the old CKUA building on Jasper Avenue this weekend. The spiffed up space promises to deliver the best in both local and touring indie bands in a comfortable environment – and give […]