Other bands influenced by pearl jam
| On Project Opus since: | April 23, 2007 |
| Last seen: | 1 week 1 day ago |
| Biography: | Vincent Van Gogh “loved life so bad, his paintings had twice the color other paintings had”. So sings Jonathan Richman (on Rockin’ and Romance). And that tells you something about musician Allison Crowe. A modern lover of music, blogger Muruch frames it like this: "There's really no way to convey through mere words how much the music... moves me, or how I want other people to listen to and adore it as much as I do. Allison sings with such an intensity of emotion, it's easy to see why she's often quoted as saying 'Why music? Why breathing?'... that kind of artistic passion seems extremely rare these days." "I love singing for people," says Allison Crowe. "It's a way to connect and share with others. Communication is crucial. Just being able to do what I do, to write and sing and perform, makes me feel not only alive, but incredibly lucky. Knowing at any moment everything could change, I don't take one second for granted." Born 26 years ago, on an island, in the harbour city of Nanaimo, B.C., today Crowe's reach is global. The audience for her music videos and song downloads numbers in the millions. "Allison Crowe has a voice to fall in love with," says UK music industry journal Record of the Day. "She is from Vancouver Island in Canada, descended from Scottish, Irish and Manx stock. She's exactly the sort of artist who can make serious headway on her own label and that's just what she's doing." When this phenomenon 'from the islands' reached the mainland she steered a path clear of what Joni Mitchell knowingly calls the record industry’s “style inventions”. With Ani DiFranco and Loreena McKennitt as models Crowe created her own label. Since 2003, Rubenesque Records Ltd has released five critically and commercially successful albums: Lisa's Song+ 6 Songs; Secrets; Tidings; Live at Wood Hall; and This Little Bird. "The first thing you notice about Allison Crowe is her voice. Rich and dark, it seems to come from a place most singers can only dream of accessing. Then there are the songs. Filled with raw passion and accompanied by Crowe's eloquent piano playing," writes Clodagh O'Connell (The Courier). Hers is a joyous sound: "Elton John meets Edith Piaf." A sensation at the UK’s John Lennon Northern Lights Festival, “Canadian angel Alison Crowe gave one of the weekend's most magical moments," says The Scotsman. Festival Director Mike Merritt describes Crowe as "awesome" and "spine-tingling", noting her performance “put hairs on the back of your neck! She brought the house down." A true grassroots success, Crowe’s praised not only as a singularly talented songwriter - on themes personal as well as worldly - and as a visceral performer, but, also, as a supreme interpreter of song. Her vital takes on such 21st century standards as Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" and Joni Mitchell's "River" are applauded as "truly transcendent". Her Tidings CD, a mix of traditional carols plus songs of joy, peace, and redemption from the secular songbook, is an emerging classic: "music for the season and all time". "Her voice celebrates the music with a bluesy rock-gospel intensity; her controlled vibrato, silken rasp, and powerful projection rivet your attention. This is no casual background music. be prepared to be amazed," says Hamline University Professor Of Law - and CD reviewer - Carol Swanson. "Every song radiates sincerity, creative flair, and emotional intensity." ”It takes a lot of self-confidence to tackle Aretha (Franklin)'s version of 'I Never Loved a Man...' but Allison does and nails it just as good as the Queen of Soul herself. Her piano playing is equally exquisite," says Bob Muller, curator of song covers at JoniMitchell.com in his review of Crowe’s newest album, This Little Bird. He sums up: "Treat yourself to one of the mightiest talents on the singer-songwriter scene today." David Powell, Welsh-based tech writes: "I'm listening to 'Effortless' on (Allison Crowe's) This Little Bird album with my Pro-Ject headphone amplifier turned up about a quarter more than on most modern records. It sounds fantastic because unlike most modern records it hasn't had the **** compressed out of it to raise the loudness." Vocalist, pianist, guitarist, songwriter, engineer, producer and arranger, Allison Crowe now lives in Nanaimo, British Columbia and Corner Brook, Newfoundland. From these home-bases, (spanning the full 7000 km breadth of Canada), she tours steadily, earning a reputation for exciting live shows that stir together her original songs with much-loved interpretations in an organic blend of rock, jazz, folk, Broadway, gospel and soul. "Ever wonder what it would have been like to listen to a gifted singer/songwriter from Saskatchewan in a small, intimate hall before she became Joni Mitchell? Don't fret the missed opportunity. There's no need to turn back the clock. Check out Allison Crowe," says Robert Reid in The Record. "Allison has a special gift that is so very rare in musicians today. She is true to her mind, heart and spirit," says Ross Hocker, long-time public broadcaster with NPR affiliate WGTE. Hocker, whose musical taste embraces Thelonious Monk, Bela Bartok and Charles Gounod, calls Allison Crowe's live performance "the most honest, heartfelt, and directly intimate concert in my entire life." "In an entertainment world that increasingly genuflects at the altar of instant fame, Crowe seems an anomaly, building her career slowly and carefully," notes Adrian Chamberlain, of Canada's Times Colonist newspaper. "Soulful. Alive. Joyous. Grievous. Real, true, music is what I want to make," says Allison Crowe. You can lend an ear... |
| Albums: | Little Light,Tidings,Lisa's Song + 6 Songs,Secrets,Live at Wood Hall,This Little Bird |
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| On Project Opus since: | April 12, 2006 |
| Last seen: | 4 weeks 5 days ago |
| Biography: | An autonomous collective of unsurpassed musical genius, Groovy Julia has appeared in many incarnations over the years. From acoustic buskers to formless jazz combo to horn-driven R’n’B outfit to roots rock ruffians, Groovy Julia has played to thousands, even entertaining some. Although some have said that Groovy Julia is the kind of band that gives rock a bad name, it’s an extreme characterization that isn’t entirely true. Best known for their hits… well… best known for their legendary… umm… best known for generally arriving at gigs on time, Groovy Julia continues to carry on in the tradition of The Who, in that they don’t know when it’s time to give up. Building momentum on sales numbering in the tens of their seminal opus, “Cry Like a Man,” the GJs play live sporadically, record occasionally and always rock with the best of intentions. WHAT THE CRITICS SAID “Groovy Julia – A band best served cold.” “The sound of jackhammers smashing up the sidewalk outside my apartment was more pleasant.” “Turn the volume down – way down - and wait for the enhanced DVD retrospective of these pretty boy gadflies.” “We want them for the next swimsuit issue.” “They’re nothing but a disagreeable mélange of syrupy treacle and discordant din. But with a doily here, some potpourri there and a few scented candles, they’d be a welcome addition at your next festive occasion. And that’s a good thing.” |
| Albums: | Cry Like A Man |
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| On Project Opus since: | July 31, 2008 |
| Last seen: | 9 weeks 4 days ago |
| Biography: | Navicula was formed in 1996 in Denpasar, Bali by two musician activists: Robi and Dankie. After changing personnels numerous times, the current formation is: Rob (vocals, guitar), Dankie (guitar), Made (bass), and Gembull (drums). The name Navicula was inspired by a type of single celled golden algae, which is shaped like a small ship (in Latin Navicula means small ship).Their music has a grunge rock undertone, but is combined with many other genres of sound, such as ethnic, psychedelic, alternative, progressive, and straight forward rock. The band's lyrics are heavy with activism messages of Peace, Love and Freedom. Though the band has always been active in the indie music scene, in 2004 they signed a contract with Sony-BMG, a major label. Navicula released their 4th album, Alkemis, with sony-BMG. But, in 2007 they released their 5th album, Beautiful Rebel, independently and returned to following their ideals through the indie music scene. Navicula is based in Bali, but as an independent band, they continue to keep up a national profile. Since releasing their 5th album they have already began promotion through Java. Though distribution of the album isn't as widespread, it is available on i-tunes or it can be ordered through the band's myspace site or email: |
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| On Project Opus since: | April 30, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | "SKOOKUM is a riff-rock PARTY! Hilarious anecdotes are regaled with engaging songs delivered by strong vocals, solid grooves, and a wall of sound that brings an audience to its feet!" In the beginning there was a catastrophic boom … and, without the use of an epidural, SKOOKUM was born. Out of the depths of a deep forested bush lumbered this monstrous behemoth of rawk! It had a thunderous bottom end and the animals gathered ‘round to hear its driving beats and infectious rhythms. This indescribable beast could only be known as SKOOKUM! This was NO serious matter though, as the dreaded SKOOKUM would take to heavy fits of laughter, nocturnal musings and doses of a strange forest tea brewed from alder berries and rootmarm. Yet, you could always be sure that as it reared its big hairy head, you would be raising your fist to the air in an all out heavy rawkin’ salute. An awesome creature . . . SKOOKUM sounds like no other! Oh yeah... and there’s these four guys who like to play infectious riff heavy rock. So, in the end… There's no denying it… they’re big and they rawk, they sound SKOOKUM! CoryVan - Lead guitar/Lead Vocals |
| Albums: | Big Phat Sounds |
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| On Project Opus since: | December 16, 2007 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | The term "justmegan" plain and simply began as a stage name that was used to represent an 18 year old girl, Megan Carlson, a singer/songwriter from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. This name has remarkably evolved from a one-woman-band to a tight, rock and blues group, with each member offering an essential, irreplaceable talent. You might ponder, "is that a typo?" No! You have read correctly. "justmegan," all lowercase letters and one word, to boot, is completely deliberate. What started as a clear indication of a young woman establishing herself in the musical world, has grown into a close-knit group of musicians completely using their individual talents to accentuate her original songs. Together, they have created a very unique sound that blends blues, rock, and indie music with influences from various other genres to become quite the musical force. The name was originally intended, "Just Megan." to be certain people would know there was, in fact, just Megan: her guitar, her vocals, and her raw implausible gift for writing deep, melodic songs of well beyond her years. Her paradigms were entirely shifted, as her hopes of having a full band to support her music had finally come to pass. "I love to create independently. But, by no means am I the lime-lighter type. I firmly believe that as an artist, you have to be willing to be a team player and work together and compromise. You can't do it all on your own. When that begins, sadly, it's reflected in your music. They don't say two heads are better than one for nothing!" Carlson chuckles. "Besides, there's no feeling better than other musicians wanting to play TO you! It's easy to go strictly acoustic all the time," she articulates. In June of 2006, the band released their first album as a unit, Blue Avenue, gaining a whole new entourage of fans and radio stations, as well as a well-known author from Alabama, "Quillan." "[The album] is a well "put-together" project [with] excellent music, well written lyrics, and good photo work. I highly recommend it," he raves. In addition to writing and performing inimitable tunes for all types of listeners, the band is extremely passionate towards using music to benefit assorted organizations. In the past, a track off their debut album was featured on a compilation disc to benefit cancer research. Most currently, the band is working with Illumina Records. Their latest endeavor was participating in a "Rockers for Life" campaign to promote drunk driving awareness. As if this now 22 year old front woman for "justmegan" isn't busy enough with creating music, she is a recent college graduate teaching elementary students, in addition to creating digital art for an accomplished author, while continuing to photograph as a side hobby. Her vocals have been compared to those of Pat Benatar, Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac, Tracy Chapman, Chrissy Hynde of the Pretenders, Blondie, Joan Jett, Jewel, Ani Difranco, Lisa Marie Presley, and most recently, Aimee Mann. Currently, the band has just released their second album, I Get What I Want, and their music is being played on over 100 FM radio stations, as well as numerous Internet stations, podcasts, and XM/Satellite radio. For more information, or to hear sample tracks, visit www.justmegan.net or check out their myspace site at www.myspace.com/justmeganmusic. We are also currently on TONS of sites so please be sure to check them all out! (listed below) |
| Albums: | Blue Avenue,I Get What I Want |
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| On Project Opus since: | June 5, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | Ryan McMahon grew up in Ladysmith, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, where he began playing in local bars on Vancouver Island at the age of 17, under the moniker “Citizen Strange.” There, he befriended several promoters that allowed him opening support slots for bands coming through town such as Nickelback and Wide Mouth Mason, allowing him the opportunity to hone his craft alongside those already established. In 2003, Ryan moved to Vancouver and began playing with two musicians who would become his best friends, Mike Rogerson (who produces all of Ryan’s material) and Dustin Young, both of whom still play guitars for him to this day. Together they formed the band, “Ryan McMahon & the Dirty Five,” along with drummer Jesse Smith and bassist Thomas Dowding, and the band toured throughout British Columbia and Alberta, but was never really afforded the opportunity to take it further. Wanting change, and a more diversified sound, Ryan, Mike, and Dustin stuck together and headed to Baker Street Studios in North Vancouver, to begin work on what would become Ryan’s first solo album, “Better Days Gone By.” They recruited several friends throughout the music industry, including Hamish Thomson (the Hermit), Jon Frederiksen (the Hermit), Doug Elliott (the Odds), Pat Steward (Bryan Adams, Matthew Good, the Odds), Jesse Smith (Jeff Johnson, the Dirty Five), Thomas Dowding (the Dirty Five), and Craig Northey (the Odds). The result? A 12-song rock n’roll roots album that showcases Ryan’s love for playing rough, honest music, which people of all walks can easily relate to. With themes ranging from infidelities (“Liar”) to the music industry itself (“Song Says So”), “Better Days Gone By” is a well-rounded honest album that will surely communicate well in both the rock and acoustic formats. Rye’s dynamic, genuine personality, combined with his unique emotional style will definitely offer fans of roots rock a true kindred spirit. For a better tomorrow, vote Ryan McMahon. Contact Information: |
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| On Project Opus since: | March 3, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | The Southern Urge was born on Vancouver Island in a basement near the University of Victoria in early summer, 2005. Three local musicians were at their campus pub having beers and checking out the open mic players. They were already in a band known around Victoria but “creative differences” in the band had led to their search for a new singer. There they found Ryan Evans and asked him to come out to front the band. After a few practices in the basement they hit the bars at UVIC and in downtown Victoria. The story continues to unfold today… The Southern Urge is Ryan Evans (vocals/guitar), Tony Garossino (lead guitar), Jonny Milstein (bass/congas/clave/harmonica/backup vocals), and Cameron Duron (drums). Ryan, who was living in Halifax, had been frequenting the L.A. scene meeting with producer and friend Sheila E after she had taken notice of his songwrting skill a few years previous. During the summer in B.C., and after a couple of rehearsals with the Southern Urge, it was undeniable that there was a definite chemistry between the friends who embraced his songwriting; the L.A. scene would just have to wait. With the speed of Jimmy Page and the originality of Trey Anastasio, Tony was able to add energy to the solid progressions penned by Ryan. Cam’s drumming style, reminiscent of Jazz-Fusion masters like Carter Beauford, Dennis Chambers, and Steve Gadd, is a rhythmic extension of Ryan’s aggressive acoustic playing. Add solid bass grooves locked to the beat by Jonny and you have an original song by The Southern Urge. The band’s first EP entitled “…until it hurts” was recorded over one night at Vancouver’s Art Institute, and is scheduled for release this summer. The disc includes the songs, “I am a rolling wind”, “Gimme all your love”, “See you move”, “Better time”, and “Been around”. All of the songs offer a diverse range of sounds, which is representative of the diversity in the group. From a rocker out of Halifax, to a guitar wizard from Texas, to a drumming inferno from Toronto, to a killer bass player from Vancouver – They all come together to produce something very special. The band has had extensive experience in Victoria's live music scene. As a band with a social conscience they have headlined benefit concerts around Victoria for such organizations as: Rock for Rwanda, The Tsunami Relief Effort, Engineers Without Borders and Children of War. After securing an opening spot at Steamer’s Pub, one of the biggest and best know live music venues in the heart of downtown, the band has been a monthly headliner on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. Felicita’s, Uvic’s campus pub, has been a local home for the band. On January 21st 2006, UVic hosted it’s first ever winter SUB party. The entire Student Union Building was converted into a five-stage venue for 2,500 people. Some performers featured were Moka Only, Mobile, and The Armchair Cynics. The Southern Urge was given the longest time slot that night, playing for three full hours and ending the night for a sold out crowd. Individual members have different amounts of recording experience. Ryan has recorded his own demo as a solo artist, working with session players and recording his own compositions. Jonny has had experience recording with two previous bands, as well as many other small session projects. Tony is familiar with home recording, and cam’s first major experience was the current EP. Upcoming shows: April 11 – Darcy’s pub (Victoria) Additional info/songs/pics: visit www.ryanevansmusic.com |
| Albums: | ...until it hurts |
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| On Project Opus since: | May 23, 2007 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | Tales from Abott Tales From Abott combines melodic clean sounds with pounding metal guitars and punk aggression, creating a new progressive metal sound, in the style of classic bands such as Yes and Pink Floyd blended with modern metal bands like Tool and Mastodon. |
| Albums: | The Beast From Sunshine Hill |
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| On Project Opus since: | August 6, 2007 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | 21 Gun was started in the summer of 2005 by Dan Alm and Adrian Serrato. Dan had already been playing guitar for a year and Adrian had just started playing. Soon after the creation of this band Dan had to move away for a few months. --------------------- ATTENTION: We're looking for a Rhythm Guitarist. Message if interested! |
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| On Project Opus since: | October 23, 2005 |
| Last seen: | never |
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There is one true guarantee in life: death. Lacombe, Alberta. Population: 9,384 Two guys in a high school band risk everything to drive out to Toronto in pursuit of a good gig. A.O.D. has just finished recording their first full-length record, which will be in stores in January 2006. artofdyingmusic.com |
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| On Project Opus since: | September 7, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
| Biography: | Welcome! Grab a cup of tea, put your feet up and have a browse through her pages. Carmen has been hard at work promoting, recording, rehearsing, booking and performing over the past few years. After so much hard work and due to a growing fanbase, she has decided to get some help from Marketing/Promotions Manager, Melanie Tromp. In 2005 she wrapped recording her latest EP with Producer, John Webster (Tom Cochrane, David Bowie, Cher, Aerosmith). The EP is now available to buy (see the MUSIC page of this site). Listen to clips in the new music player above or use the play button beside track titles on the music page. Feel free to drop Carmen a line to let her know which tune is your favorite! Music from the Ep was showcased on BFBS Radio in the UK this week! Click link to listen (Carmen comes in at 12:22). She is currently completing the full length album with Producer Hayden Cyr. She chose to work with Hayden because she fell in love with his song Breath on My Hand and felt he would understand the direction she was planning to take with the newest tracks. You can help support Carmen's work directly by ordering in advance a copy of the upcoming album "WINDOW SEAT" at www.carmenhillary.com!! Every 8th person to order will receive a full refund!!! (CD will include the three songs found here on MySpace!) Carmen's music will be appearing in two movies which are slated to come out within the year. One is an action movie and the other a romantic comedy. More information to come... Watch for Carmen's next co-writing project with Singer/Songwriter/Actress, Anet Ducharme. Anet is known for writing chart topping songs like "Sinking Like a Sunset" - performed by Tom Cochrane and writing for Artists such as Amanda Marshall and Larry Gowan. |
| Albums: | Window Seat |
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| On Project Opus since: | June 2, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
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| Albums: | We Are Not Consumed |
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| On Project Opus since: | May 11, 2006 |
| Last seen: | never |
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