Map To Temenos

I was thinking about isolation, particularly cultural and creative isolation. I pondered if the internet phenomenon truly provided a conduit to creative resource and inspiration. And, what level of interpretation occurs via the digital experience of art and culture versus the physical involvement in or of a scene type scenario. The band that was on my mind during this philosophical consideration was Map To Temenos.

Map To Temenos is a 3 piece from Newfoundland. Newfoundland is an island that is difficult to get to and also to leave in both distance and cost. So it does not get the kind of tourism and band tours that maritime neighbors PEI, Nova Scotia or New Brunswick are used to. As well, if you are an artist of any sort, the cost and effort to "get out there" is significantly higher and as a result typicaly prohibitive. The reason I though of these guys is because although they are the product of a somewhat isolated community, they did in fact tour Canada this Summer and their music/ art is unique and exiting (saw their Toronto show, AMAZING!). I feel like the music they make is as awesome as it is because they lack the criticism and drama of a "scene". I find that generally, people/ artists in more remote communities tend to rely on mainstream channels to point them in a direction regardless of the net's infinite options. MTT seem to dig for what they connect with of their own volition and are thus motivated by the mix of whatever strikes their ears with no "scene police" to diminish their efforts or ambitions.

Live, Map To Temenos really deliver the goods. Exciting, jagged rhythms and interesting chord groupings played tight and with heart. Some of the guitar parts sound nearly impossible in complexity and to top it off they sing over what they play. Technicality aside though, MTT's jams are urgent, exciting and catchy. Word is that they are moving to Montreal, so perhaps we will be hearing much more of them soon.

Photo :: Brian Williams
Myspace :: http://www.myspace.com/maptotemenos