By Aaron Levy (CIVL Station Manager) – Email
Print Edition: January 15, 2014
CIVL Station Manager Aaron Levy isn’t the hippest of cats, in fact, according to his astrological sign, he’s a bull, but here are some snippets of his 2013 in music!
If all Jordan Klassen released this year was the “Go To Me” single, then his 2013 would have been an unbridled success. The infectious song’s Shins meets Wilco whispers and hooks are a highlight for Mainland music over the past 12 months. See him Thursday, January 16th at Aftermath – free!
Run the Jewels — “Sea Legs”
Probably my favorite line of the year: “See the truth from the womb is a fool proof plan to be doomed while the damned do they dances. So I move through the room like an animal fooling a master.” There’s more, but you’ll have to check out the self-titled debut.
Deafheaven — “Sunbather”
I’m not the authority when it comes to metal, and many who know me will label me a zealot for itemizing this release as a favorite of mine. All I’ll say is I’ve argued, not over whether or not, but simply how this record should be re-recorded by a symphony.
I met these guys in 2009 when they were still a band of Toronto to Dalhousie kids on the touring scene across the country, struggling with botched recording sessions and dangerous tour stops. Here they are covering Steely Dan for an entire album. Though the mighty may fall, what progress!
Anciients — “Heart of Oak”/ Open Letters – “1-6”
Two local releases that I couldn’t select just one of; Anciients were recognized with a Polaris long list nod, and Open Letters released the most singable local album since I’ve had the pleasure of being in town. To both of these bands, I salute you, and keep on keeping on.
