The PSBZ 09 Top 5!

2009 for me has been one of the best years in music that I have ever experienced (especially Toronto/ Canadian music). While there are far more than 5 bands that I am super stoked on, The ones I am about to list are on my absolute top shelf. Each are unique in their own right and as well, I feel are important to what happens from this point onward.

So without further a due

1. Lost Cities
Overwhelming in the live format. Most memorable performance of the last 10 years.
http://www.myspace.com/wearelostcities

2. Expectorated Sequence
Mega epic, mega power, totally honest.
http://www.myspace.com/expectoratedsequence

3. Vilipend
Biggest risk takers both musically and with lives {glad you're OK Chris}. New ideas in hevy music that are tight, crushing and exciting. The way it should be.
http://www.myspace.com/vilipendmusic

4. The Bulletproof Tiger
New kings of the "math" scene. Regardless of the tech these guys sound amazing.
http://www.myspace.com/thebulletprooftiger

5. This is Picture
Most unique and inviting music possibly in the universe. Add to that, Rob is mega swell.
http://www.myspace.com/thisispicture

So there it is, it's such a hot list that my eyes are burning from the text alone. More important than clicking through the links is to see the bands live. It is their ultimate environment.

Looking forward to what 2010 has to offer. If you have a next level band/ project, get in touch.

Robotto ;)

photo :: Lost Cities Myspace

Vilipend Back In Action

If you didn't hear, during the closing moments of ripping through a Dillinger Escape Plan support gig, Vilipend leading man Chris Gramlich managed to rip too hard and fractured his L1 vertebrae. The good news is that there was no permanent damage and Chris is on the road to recovery. Better news is Vilipend is reported to be back on a regular rehearsal routine. The band has even gone so far as to schedule a gig at the Bovine in Toronto on the 7th to celebrate Mr. Gramlich's return and turning of age.

Photo :: Bryan Walker
Band Page :: http://www.myspace.com/vilipendmusic

Vilipend

With their Northern Hostility and Love Left To Rot eps behind them, Vilipend are busy working on a third installment of 3 songs with rumors of a potential 7" to be the format. At only a year and a half since birth, Vilipend is maturing rapidly into a fantastic writing/ ripping machine. The bands live set of artful, metal influenced, dirgy punk is highly energized, always delivered with heart and precision, even when the crowd is flying into the drums.

Summer looks to be busy for Vilipend with some hot tours lined up. You'll be able to catch them on the Lords and Ken Mode, Ontario/ Quebec legs.

http://www.myspace.com/vilipendmusic