l Am The Horizon is the latest single from this rock trio from Saskatoon! The track is off their recent six-song EP, "Adios Radio", which dropped this past summer. I Am the Horizon has reached a new peak of #17 on the Canadian Active Rock Chart this past week! The band recently released their much-anticipated video for the new single which was produced by Prehistoric Productions.
There are only great things on the horizon for this rock trio. The guys are going out on tour with rock icons The Trews. W3APONS has been working under the mentorship of John-Angus MacDonald from The Trews. John-Angus, in addition to collaborating with the band as a producer and songwriter, has also continually offered career and professional advice which has been invaluable to W3APONS success to date.
W3APONS is currently working with booking agent Adam Kreeft of Good Company, whose clients have included The Glorious Sons, Protest the Hero, and Cleopatrick.
W3APONS is a Canadian Rock trio from Saskatoon, SK. The band’s debut single “Off the Top of My Heart” reached #11 on the Canadian Active Rock Charts completely independently in 2019 and has received over 700,000 streams on Spotify. This pattern would continue for the band’s next three releases, all of which independently went Top 30 in Canada, including their first Top 10 “Bye Baby Gone”.
W3APONS independent charting successes and relentless touring in 2019 resulted in them being handpicked by Theory of a Deadman to accompany Theory for all 21 Canadian dates of their Say Nothing 2020 World Tour.
Drummer/vocalist Tallus Scott, bassist/vocalist Myk Ulan-Hohol, and guitarist/vocalist Jordan Welbourne are the elements in the perfect storm that is W3APONS - Energetic, Hard-hitting, and unmistakably Rock & Roll.
W3APONS has shared the stage with Theory of a Deadman, The Trews, Monster Truck, Sweeney Todd, The Lazys, and The Wild.
Multiple Juno award-winnerColin James is one of the best blues rockers in the music industry and he is at the top of his game with his brand new album Open Road.
Colin James’ music career spans over 30 years and includes 19 studio albums, 7 Juno Awards, 27 Maple Blues Awards, and multi-platinum record sales. Inducted into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame in 2014, Colin James is a beloved guitarist, singer, songwriter, consistently selling out shows internationally.
From the rolling prairies of Saskatchewan to the Open Road of a storied career, multi-award-winning, chart-topping, and multi-platinum-selling guitarist Colin James released his 20th studio album on November 5th via Stony Plain Records. Open Road was mixed at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London. Colin supports the new album, which is being released on both CD and vinyl LP formats, with substantial touring in Canada and the US, including a spot on the Big Blues Bender multi-day music extravaganza in Las Vegas that took place in September.
That's abundantly clear on the album’s title track, a song co-written by James and Northey that sets the tone for the album for traveling the highways and byways that are part and parcel of a touring musician’s life. But while the track seems custom-crafted to reflect the road life of traveling musicians, it’s a song anyone can find their own lives and experiences reflected in; all summed up in the lyrics, “every life is an open road.” “It’s definitely got a sense of movement,” James says, “which, I think, is compounded by our lack of ability to travel over the last year and a half.”
For James, Open Road is the third in a trilogy of records, a natural follow up to the 2018 JUNO Award-winning Miles To Go, an album that garnered worldwide attention as it debuted on the Billboard Blues Chart, the iTunes Blues Chart, and added six new Maple Blues Awards to Colin’s running total of 27.
“Those two records, in a way they’re almost straight blues, and through them, we found a new audience, especially in America. They also had a fair number of covers; some of them reimagined versions of songs I’ve known since I was 12 or 13 years old. So, on Open Road I wanted to try and stay true to that kind of blues, but also to show some growth.”
Open Road mines the past and present for inspiration in equal measure. It’s also a record that finds James looking forward with determination. After 19 months and a change of Covid, everyone feels more than a bit down and done. But while James isn’t immune to that feeling, the variety of blues he presents on Open Road – rather than dwelling on struggle – is meant to lift people’s spirits, encourage them to shake off the shadows, and move forward in a way that’s fiercely hopeful.
Directed by Cole Northey, “Down On The Bottom” video opens with Colin James driving a Classic Black ’66 Mustang convertible down a dirt country road as the crack of drums and searing guitar roll in. With soaring vocals, James rocks this cover (Bob Dylan, Jim James) with a sweet, sanctified feel that preaches a loner’s gospel and an arrangement that keeps James’ vocal talent front and center. His guitar tones are crisp and beautiful, embellishing the spaces around his voice creating magic. James displays a master’s touch here and has created one of the finest roots music videos of 2021. The song was produced by Colin James and Dave Meszaros.
Following this summer’s first track release, “Down On The Bottom,” the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Famer has revealed the release’s latest single in the title track “Open Road” — available now.
In delivering 20-plus albums across 30-plus years, a look back over Colin James’ career reveals a timeline rich in highlights, kicking off when he subbed in for a no-show opening act at a Stevie Ray Vaughan concert in his hometown of Regina. He’s been following the path Vaughan set out for him that night when Stevie Ray told him, “I’m opening doors for you –walk through them.”
His 1988 self-titled debut, featuring two self-penned hits, “Voodoo Thing” and “Five Long Years,” was the fastest-selling album in Canadian history, winning him his first of now-seven JUNOs, and an opening spot on tour with Keith Richards.
In addition to his own studio offerings, Colin James has worked with some of the world's most revered artists across his multi-decade career — including Bonnie Raitt, Albert Collins, Pops Staples, Robert Cray, Albert King, Keith Richards, Lenny Kravitz, ZZ Top, Mavis Staples, Luther Allison, Roomful of Blues, Bobby King and Terry Evans, John Hammond Jr., The Chieftains, Carlos Santana, Little Feat, Johnny Hallyday, Jeff Healey, and Buddy Guy.
And beyond his own recording and touring to massive sold-out crowds, he is a prolific songwriter, with his music recorded by the likes of Maria Muldaur, Lucinda Williams, and Johnny Hallyday. He is also credited with launching the swing revival in Canada, thanks to his wildly popular Little Big Band.
Colin James Tour Dates November 8, 2021 – Qualicom Civic Centre – Qualicom Beach, BC November 9, 2021 – Tidemark Theatre – Campbell River, BC November 10, 2021 – Evergreen Theatre – Powell River, BC November 13, 2021 – Cleland Theatre – Penticton, BC November 14, 2021 – Performing Arts Centre – Vernon, BC November 15, 2021 – Key City Theatre – Cranbrook, BC November 17, 2021 – Festival Place – Sherwood Park, AB November 18, 2021 – Festival Place – Sherwood Park, AB November 20, 2021 – Vic Juba Theatre – Lloydminster, AB November 21, 2021 – Lougheed PAC – Cargill Theatre Camrose, AB November 23, 2021 – Blues At The Bow – Bow Island, AB November 24, 2021 – Blues At The Bow – Bow Island, AB
The main songwriter for OBS(the band has racked up six top 10 hits on Canadian rock radio, with their hit song “Raging Bull” reaching the #1 spot for four weeks), Shane has released his first-ever solo single “Shiver” on October 22 via all streaming platforms.
“Shiver” is a brooding, rumbling track, showcasing another side to the Saskatoon native with elements of rock with a country twang.
“I’m always writing songs - they just flow out of me. I’ve written a lot of songs that weren’t the right fit for OBS, and I’m excited to finally share them beyond jamming in my living room,” said Shane. “It’s a song about reconnecting to music and my creativity as a whole. I hope the lyrics connect with anyone who has had a dream and maybe lost sight of what made it so special to them in the first place.”
I have Shane available for pre-taped and live-to-air virtual interviews and acoustic performances in support of the single release in the coming weeks. Please let me know if you are interested in speaking with him.
Best known as the lead singer and songwriter of the rock band One Bad Son, his commanding stage presence and soaring vocal range have put him in a league of his own as a Rock N Roll frontman for the last 18 years. OBS has toured with incredible artists such as Def Leppard, Judas Priest, and Shinedown, and landed a coveted spot on the only Canadian stop of the 2019 Rolling Stones tour.
In embracing the full spectrum of his art, Shane has also embarked on a career as a professional comic book artist. His first series, the medieval noir Nottingham with Florida publisher Mad Cave Studios, has already gained great success, shattering all of the company’s previous sales records, with each book receiving multiple printings.
To coincide with the single release Shane will also release a 20-page graphic novel that he created called “Shiver”, it can be viewed here and the cover art is below.
The final piece of the puzzle is in place! TheShiver comic book is now available for digital download on Amazon! Physical copies are limited. You can find them at Redd Skull Comics and at Shanes shows!
“You never expect to get such a huge hit your first time out! I am truly honoured and grateful to the Mad Cave team and to the fans.” He says that the success of Nottingham has brought him one step closer to a lifelong aspiration, “I’ve wanted to draw comics my whole life, and I will always love making music. To be able to do both is a dream come true. All I really want is more art all the time!”
''I had the chance to catch up with frontman, Shane Connery Volk, lead singer for the chart-topping rock band One Bad Son, one of my favorite voices in Rock music today,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host on 91.3 FM. ''We could have spent hours talking about all the fun stories on the road he has shared with his bandmates, the history of the music industry, and just how much it has changed since he started his journey in music. This by far, is one of my favorite interviews so far this year.''
Shane takes the time to chat about the decision to release his first solo music, his personal journey in the music industry, life on the road touring with the band, and recent success as a comic book artist, reigniting his passion, melding his creative energies on this new track, and much more!!
To hear my interview with Shane, click on the link below
Duran started his musical journey at the age of 6 when his father gave him his first guitar. Duran's father was a musician playing the music scene in Boston. Duran started learning guitar by playing every chord in a song until he had it down perfectly.
''Duran's ability to hear music in the way he does and his ability to interpret the lyrics with the soul and depth that he does is pretty special,'' says Cyr. ''That can't be taught and I believe it's something you are born with.''
Duran's journey playing live music starting after he finished college at the age of 21 yrs. of age. Duran built a strong following in Boston, Massachusetts, and then he had his big break when he decided to move to Texas to chase his musical dream. It was there that he had the opportunity to audition for NBC's The Voice.
''I wasn't expecting my journey on The Voice to turn out as well as it did. It was pretty surreal. I don't think anyone who goes on the show expects to get anywhere near being in the finale. I remember standing on the stage on finale night with the last 3 contestants and we all looked at each other and said, ''I can't believe we have the opportunity to be here on this incredible stage doing something we love.''
Duran describes what it was like getting ready to go out on stage to perform in front of the world.
''I think it's pretty normal to be really nervous before going out on a stage like that I like to take a moment before performing to get in the zone. I like to really feel the lyrics and understand what I need to do to make that moment count like it's my last.''
Duran remembers the advice coach Blake Shelton shared with him before his performance on the finale night on season 17 of The Voice. He told me to deliver the lyrics so that every word is believable. If I could do that then that was exactly what fans would feel when I sang the songs chosen for the finale. I have always remembered that ever since. I chose my songs wisely.
''My interview with Ricky Duran was very special,'' says Cyr. ''There is very unique and really special about this young artist that I picked up the moment I saw him perform River in the blind auditions on The Voice. The standing ovation he received with that four-chair turn was exactly what we were all feeling cheering and watching it all from around the world. I feel even stronger that there are no bounds to what Duran can do in the music industry. He is gentle in his spirit and has a deep love of what music and lyrics can bring to someone's life. He is special beyond words. I hope that fans can hear the beauty in his music and find hope in what it's like to fight through the toughest moments in life like his sisters and Duran have done.
Duran and his family lost both their parents far too early in life and that journey can be the toughest to get through without pain and darkness. Duran shares his candid feelings about losing his father in 2012 to suicide and the darkness that surrounded that tragedy. That kind of loss is very personal and a topic that is extremely difficult to talk about. He lost his mother too a few years later. That kind of pain and loss can bury you.
''I wanted to talk more openly and unfiltered about his feelings about losing his father and what that dialog was like inside his mind and heart,'' says Kim Cyr. ''I think it is critical to talk more in-depth about what each personals journey was going through something like this. The pain is real, the circumstances in the personal stories of each individual can help someone out there that doesn't know what to do with those feelings of anger, or abandonment that comes with this type of loss. There is a flood of emotions that hit at different times. Some hit all at once. It can be pretty overwhelming and without a support system in place, a person can feel lost and trapped in that pain for life. The more raw the conversation, the more hope people have to understand what works and doesn't work for those who have lost someone to suicide.''
To hear my full interview and the beautiful music by the incredible Ricky Duran, click on the link below.
We can help by supporting Suicide Awareness Month and take action to provide hope to those who need help today.
Talk is cheap, but Ricky Duran takes action in suicide prevention this September during Suicide Awareness Month. From teaming up with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, to releasing an extremely personal song about his father who passed from suicide, Duran is determined to make a difference, not just stand on the sidelines.
Best known as the runner-up in The Voice’s seventeenth season, Ricky Duran won fans over with his story and roped viewers in with his incredible voice and stage presence. Always transparent, Duran shared that not only did his mother pass from breast cancer in 2018, but his father also passed from suicide just prior. On September 17, he has shared one of his most personal songs, “Waiting On You.”
“Waiting On You’ is a track I wrote from my father’s perspective," says the timeless artist. "In a way, I think I wrote this song as a therapeutic letter to myself that I wish I had received before his passing.”
"Waiting On You" is available now, and is available on all streaming platforms. For a full calendar of events and for additional information on how you can help, visit www.iamrickyduran.com and follow him on social media @rickyduran on Instagram and @iamrickyduran on Facebook.
This is the time to raise awareness on this stigmatized, and often taboo, topic. In addition to shifting public perception, I want to use this platform to shine a light on this month to spread hope and vital information to people affected by suicide. Our goal is to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and to seek help.
To check out my full interview, click on the link below. Don't forget that you can check all the interviews with the artists you love on www.musicsjourney.com. You can also listen to all the podcast interviews on all streaming platforms under Music's Journey Podcast.
GET BACK TO ‘LET IT BE’ WITH SPECIAL EDITION RELEASES The Beatles’ chart-topping 1970 album Let It Be is beautifully presented in Special Edition packages...The Beatles
Let It Be – 3 Pack
THE BEATLES GET BACK TO LET IT BE WITH SPECIAL EDITION RELEASES
Let It Be Presented with New Mixes in Stereo, 5.1 Surround, and Dolby Atmos; Expanded with Never Before Released Session Recordings, Rehearsals & Studio Jams; And the Previously Unreleased 1969 Get Back LP Mix by Glyn Johns
The Beatles invite everyone everywhere to get back to the chart-topping 1970 album, Let It Be, with a range of beautifully presented Special Edition packages.
The Let It Be album has been newly mixed by producer Giles Martin and engineer Sam Okell in stereo, 5.1 surround DTS, and Dolby Atmos. The album’s sweeping new Special Edition follows the universally acclaimed remixed and expanded anniversary editions of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (2017), The BEATLES (‘White Album’) (2018), and Abbey Road (2019). All the new Let It Be releases feature the new stereo mix of the album as guided by the original “reproduced for disc” version by Phil Spector and sourced directly from the original session and rooftop performance eight-track tapes. The physical Super Deluxe collections also feature 27 previously unreleased session recordings, a four-track Let It Be EP, and the never before released 14-track Get Back stereo LP mix compiled by engineer Glyn Johns in May 1969.
The Beatles - Let It Be | Special Edition Releases [Official Trailer]
Let It Be (2021 Mix)
Don’t Let Me Down (First Rooftop Performance)
The Beatles: Get Back - A Sneak Peek from Peter Jackson
Texas King has picked up where the previous Top 15 Active Rock singles Boomerang & Chandelier left off, "Not Myself" kicks off their new EP ''Changes'' coming out December 2021!
Texas King has delivered a fantastic new single ''Strange Life'' which is my favorite song on my playlist right now,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host on 91.3 Bluewater Radio. ''Jordan MacDonald writes the lyrics that hit hard with a vulnerability that demands respect as a songwriter. MacDonald has such an incredible voice that carries the lyrics in this story that make you put this track on repeat all day long.
After autumn of 2019, Texas King were poised to break out. They had all the wind in their sails; they had just come off of a 4 month North American tour supporting Big Wreck, they had just sold out their hometown holiday show (1000 tickets) and their single Chandelierwas on the rock charts.
Instead in 2020, they took shelter in a studio during a storm and re-emerged in 2021 from the other side looking to pick up right where they left off with Changes, their 6-song EP set for release in December 2021.
"Not Myself" is the lead single intended to start the journey - a story the band wants to tell. With powerful lyrics delivered by the band's black Canadian frontman, Jordan MacDonald, as he puts it; “Sometimes you have a bad day, sometimes you have 30 in a row. This song is an alert. Everything is not ok. I’ve not been feeling myself. It’s the first step in the process of change. Which is admitting that there’s something that needs to change. I’m sure you can relate.“
''I really love the band Texas King and all that they have accomplished since I have been covering them from the start of their career interviewing them at Canadian Music Week (CMW),'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and the host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. You don't want to miss their latest single ''Strangle Life''. To hear my interview with the band, click on the link below. To hear my interview with the band, click on the link below.
Harm & Ease is a Rock & Roll band originally founded in Burlington, Ontario made up of:
Founding members Danny Lopez and Rylan Whalen originally met in their first year of high school. In the predictable suburbs of Burlington, Ontario is where they swiftly began a musical relationship. Harm & Ease was officially formed in 2010 as an acoustic project allowing them to explore a more melodic vibe not present in the metal scene. Eventually, fate would find Lopez, along with his family, being uprooted with little warning finding themselves in Buenos Aires, Argentina. However, this wasn’t enough to separate the songwriting duo. Dedication, sacrifice, and a hell of a lot of plane rides kept the artistic pair inseparable and propelled them into their next stage.
Harm & Ease is a Rock & Roll band originally founded in Burlington, Ontario made up of Rylan Whalen (Vocals), Danny Lopez (Guitar), John Goodblood (Bass/Guitar), and Alex Hamnett(Drums). This lineup was formed in Buenos Aires Argentina after several reiterations revolving around Whalen and Lopez (founders). The addition of Goodblood and Hamnett proved proficient in rounding out an already brilliant basis. Recording and debuting their 1st two albums in the bustling, artist hub of Buenos Aires. They found themselves reaching an international following as they took over the South American rock scene.
Danny Lopez and lead singer Rylan Whalen met 12 years ago while attending Burlington’s Central Public. By the time they reached high school, they were writing songs together, with another school chum, Alex Hamnett, on drums.
Lopez, 25, is Columbian by birth. His family fled Columbia as refugees, landing at first in Florida and then moving to Burlington when Lopez was 13. While Lopez was in Grade 12, his family decided to return to South America, making a new home in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Lopez and Whalen stayed in touch on a daily basis, continuing to write songs together through Skype. After a year, Whalen put together enough money to fly to Buenos Aires. He stayed almost five years.
Harm & Ease. Rylan Whalen (left), Danny Lopez (top middle), Alex Hamnett (bottom middle) and John Goodblood (right).JOE LOPEZ PHOTO
Connections were soon formed with world-renowned talents such as Multi-Platinum and Juno Award-winning artist Gianni Luminati of Walk off the Earth allowing the recording process to begin and their first Canadian recorded album ‘Midnight Crisis’. Produced by Dominic John David (known for his work with Jack White, Beck, and Willie Nelson), Harm & Ease channels the rock & roll giants of the 60s and 70s and passes it through their modern filter, creating a sound that comes across as fresh yet familiar and steeped in the roots of classical music and songwriting. In 2017, the band released their first album “Wonderful Changes”, recorded in a mansion to be demolished in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Showcasing a melodic conceptual brand of songwriting with lush arrangements, and a choral quality to their backup vocals. Their second album “Black Magic Gold” cranked up the volume and featured a much more blues rock-driven sound, with swampier darker songs and funeral march horns. They have recently recorded a single with Grammy award-winning producer Joe Cicarelli (Elton John, The Foo Fighters, Morrisey, The Raconteurs) titled “Nothing More Than Love”.
Nothing More Than Love - Harm and Ease
"I first saw the band in a small club in downtown Hamilton ON in the summer of 2019. I was immediately enamoured by their playing and their ability to have the whole club up dancing and rockin' out. After meeting the band after the show I was very intrigued by their story and how the members from 3 different countries were brought together by friendship and a love for music. For many years I had been looking for a band to work with that really inspired me and that had the same passion for music and art. I offered to represent the band as their manager and they were very happy to oblige. We've been working hard over the pandemic on all facets of the Harm & Ease project and are ready to take the rock world by storm," said Gianni Luminati.
The band has released their new single “Cut Me Loose” dropped on July 16th. This upbeat modern rock anthem showcases the band’s unique sound & dueling lead singers. The track puts the subjects of love & betrayal into play through a dramatic yet action-driven storyline.
''The new track ''Cut Me Loose'' has really solidified Harm & Ease with the sound that fans will recognize with the live performance lifestyle, that powerful energy and howling gritty blues we all love, hard-hitting guitar riffs, and the spirit of real rock and roll,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast show.
To hear their incredible story, click on the link below for the full interview!
Much like a storm, CEVILAIN has swept onto the scene and left a poignant and lasting impression. Inspired by titans of the genre - Breaking Benjamin, Chevelle, and Thrice - CEVILAIN channels their creative energies into captivating tracks whose impact is only surpassed by their energetic live performances and their ability to engage their audience. Members Cliff Menzies (Vocals/Guitar), Joel Lefebvre (Lead Guitar), Eddy Fox (Bass) and Andrew Parmelee (Drums) give every ounce of themselves night in and night out…
The latest single 'WARS' the second track off CEVILAIN’s forthcoming full-length album VERSUS, due out in December, is killer feat. special guest vocal by Adam Gontier, frontman of Saint Asonia (formerly of Three Days Grace) making a haunting addition to the already monolithic track. Consistently heavy and unforgivingly melodic, if “WARS” and “Cure” (the first single released) are any indication of what’s to come with VERSUS, we are in for hell of a ride.
''CEVILAIN has become one of my favorite Canadian hard Rock bands today and they have my full respect and appreciation for their music that will be standing the test of time with their hard hitting lyrics like their new singleWARS,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief of NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''As independent artists, CEVILAIN is a very impressive band. They grind out every show by giving the performances that we all crave and expect from all legendary hard Rock bands that have been on the world stage for years. Here's is the deal, CEVILAIN is a fairly new band and they are earning that same respect from every fan (especially me) one at a time because they live and breathe what music is meant to do. It's not about the fame, it's the lyrics that matter, and the creative genius to write the music that brings us to our knees with the kick ass performances that show they are not afraid to deliver that punch in the gut to wake us all up. I think CEVILAIN will be changing the face of hard Rock from the Canadian stage to the world stage. It is so amazing to see this band come out swinging and delivering the lyrics that are complicated, current, and difficult with the world we live in right now. At a time that has been so explosive, hard and painful for people worldwide for so many different reasons, CEVILAIN has taken on some of the most difficult issues of our time and giving their unique and powerful perspective in their music. There is a methodical approach to everything this band does and that is delivering the music that will keep hard Rock alive for generations to come.
''I had such a fantastic talk with Cliff Menzies and Eddy Fox of the band CEVILAIN, sharing the concept behind their forthcoming full-length album VERSUS,'' says Cyr. ''I love the meaning behind VERSUS that takes important issues that have two different opinions or perspectives on a matter and finding a way to work together on the resolution peacefully. The first single 'Cure' really showcased these points and how frustrating it is to watch our world be on opposing sides with little interest in working together to find a solution. The emotive impact of the visual story behind the video 'Cure' is so powerful and hits the exact point of frustration we all feel watching the world events unfold. The creative process is amazing and to hear how Joel Lefebvre put this video together so quickly, is just incredible. There are so many stories behind the lyrics of this new album that are just so impressive. . It is amazing to see that CEVILAIN cares enough to use their platform in such an important way by writing lyrics for their new music to drive home the values and the concept of peace and how we can obtain it as a whole. We can work together in all walks of life no matter what our views or positions might be. The images related in the videos are haunting and we need to take a serious look at our own views and see every aspect of what we are doing to each other.''
''Cliff Menzies shares what it was like working with Adam Gontier and where the original concept of the idea for WARS came from. It is very interesting and cool story that you are going to love! To hear the full interview, click on the link below.
2021... looks to be an incredible follow up for CEVILAIN. "WARS" has establish that CEVILAIN is ready for the world stage and they are doing just that!
“WARS” has been hitting the US Airwaves with a force! Don't forget, if you want WARS playing on your local radio station, request it!
CEVILAIN - Wars feat. Adam Gontier (Official Lyric Video)
CEVILAIN's 2020 release: “On Death & Dying”. The concept EP is based on the Kübler-Ross model, better known as the “Five Stages of Grief”, with each full-track highlighting a stage (Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance).
The first single off the EP, "How It Ends”, showcases CEVILAIN’s ability to hammer home searing instrumentation with soaring melody and focused harmony. Released in October 2019, the single has become the bands most successful release to date – streaming for over 300,000+ plays!
The EP has found substantial success since its March release with multiple tracks being picked up at rock radio and receiving placement on establish Spotify & Appleplaylists. All in all, the album has seen over 500,000+ streams!
CEVILAIN - Crisis (Official Video)
CEVILAIN - What Comes After (Official Lyric Video)
''Saskatoon - Rock trio W3APONS heavy, melodic riffs, and powerful lyrics have been winning fans in large numbers from all corners of the globe,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''This powerhouse Rock trio has now set its mark among Canada's great rock bands and doing it their own way.''
Their new single “Unnecessary Evil” dropped on June 4th giving rock fans exactly what they wanted and needed for a summertime rock anthem. W3APONS are the perfect storm. This song sets the pace for what we know is going to be some killer live shows when things open up for music shows and festivals. They have some show dates coming soon so stay tuned for some announcements.
''W3APONS are a band full of heart, grit, and with a hard work ethic grinding out shows one after the other earning them one fan at a time. Doing it the old fashion way. This band will be a staple in Canadian Rock music and can't wait to see them play live this song live this summer,'' says Cyr.
''Unnecessary Evil'' is the first single from their upcoming, debut EP “Adios Radio” available now on all digital streaming platforms.
'Í had the opportunity to chat with Jordan and Myk,' says Kim Cyr. Here is a few of the questions asked in my interview. To listen to the full interview, click HERE.
It's always a good day when W3APONS releases new music. You guys have been working hard writing and in the studio recording this new music. Did you have a strategic plan when you wanted to release the new music?
Jordan: Yeah, we did have a plan right off the get-go to release it and set ourselves with a pretty strict timeline for how we were going to do this recording and we were fortunate to have it all work out without any hiccups.
Tell everyone how the band came to be?
We were three young men forging up the mountains and we came down from the mountain as men. Laughter When we met we were guys that just wanted to play music. We played a bit and jammed. We played a few we know that we had something special. You just know. From there we immediately took it on the road. It was a kinda trial by fire. You play as much as you can and we played a couple of covers too and tried to play as much as we could.
You guys are such a hard-working band grinding out the shows as often as you could. I have never seen a band work so hard and do it because you just loved to play. You guys played so often doing as many shows as you could to get your name known. Then you get discovered by Theory of A Deadman. Tell us how that all came about?
Jordan: Being an independent band a lot of the responsibility falls on your bandmates. Like the decision-making process falls on the band which I think is good. For our situation, it was great because we remained in control of our artistry. That being said, there is still a lot of learning and wearing of all the different hats. When we were first getting things going we spent all of our time out on the road. Our first year touring in 2019, when we got back from that tour we were booking the next one.
Myk: Yeah, definitely. We would be out playing one after the next and the next thing you know, two years had gone by. We went from playing 8 people's shows and then, hey we have 28... laughing. then Theory happened and we went whoa ... to every show sold out on big stages. It happened really quickly.
That had to have been a huge shock. I know that when you start out doing the smaller clubs and bar scene you get a real good feel if the sound you have is working. Did you guys know right away that you guys were that good with the response of the crowds?
Jordan: That isn't up to us. That is up to the fans and whether they were cool with what we were playing. We opened with the same song during the tour and it seemed to grasp a lot of fans right away. It didn't seem to matter what the age difference was, that song everyone seemed to really like. We didn't have a lot of songs that we had done so we would play shortlists set of 5 songs so we just had to put it out there and give it all we had.
It really shows how much hard work does really pay off doing that grind and playing as many places as your can and as hard as you can. Then you guys a thrown into a 21-day tour with Theory to sold-out crowds. From a smaller stage to a big stage for the first time must have been nerve-wracking as hell? Were you guys worried about not having a big setlist?
Myk: Well actually, I don't think it really changes from one stage to the next. I don't think that any band doesn't get nervous before going out. I think everyone has stage fright. It's something that you don't quite get over I think. Leading up to that Theory tour we thought, let's just grind it hard an entire month beforehand and just practice. We would practice the song each three times a day. Then we drove out to Vancouver for our first appearance on stage and then we would go, ''Oh my God'' then we just figured we are here and this is what we are going to do. We are going to hit it hard and make sure the songs we have are done the way we want and play as we like to play.
Band Questions:
Your journey as a musician and when you got bitten by the bug when you know you wanted to take this from a hobby into a full-time musician?
We all got our start in high school - and that bug bite has been itching ever since!
How difficult has it been navigating the music industry and how the pandemic has affected your creativity and songwriting?
The music industry was shut down like everything else, and will probably be the last thing to re-open, so we’re sitting tight. However, we’ve used our time away from live-performing to write songs that we’ve recently released and are planning on releasing in the future.
What have been the biggest challenges that you have faced this past year and even now with the pandemic and looking ahead when businesses start opening up and getting back to business for professional musicians?
This whole experience was very testing, very trying. Obviously us not being able to perform live was a big challenge, and we’re glad to see that the remaining business is starting to open their doors again!
Where do you get your inspiration from – do you pull from your own personal experiences or things you hear or observe throughout your life, where does the inspiration come from?
I think we all write based off the everyday events that we witness. Sometimes our songs are inspired by news headlines, sometimes they are inspired by a train of thought!
Looking at the music industry today in comparison to a decade ago, no borders today for Canadian artists or musicians. What have the digital and streaming platforms meant to you with your music and the reach you now have?
Streaming has meant that we’ve been able to connect with a global audience without having to spread our wings or put our life vests on!
The impact that no borders have on the artist or group being able to make it on their own is really incredible. It is so hard to support yourself as a musician grinding out your music, marketing, producing, promoting it, etc... possibilities as an independent artist/group that hasn't been easy to do before without a label?
As independent artists, we enjoy complete artistic freedom and direction for where we want to take the band!
How much of an impact has social media played in your career with all the capability to reach a much bigger audience with streaming platforms, FB, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok around the world. Airplay streaming awards and now the awards … ?
Social media is a complicated algorithm that still stumps us!
What inspired the song or album?
The new tracks on this album were entirely written during the pandemic and were inspired by our various life experiences over the last few months.
How has the feedback been after releasing your new music?
So far so good! We’ve gotten a lot of positive responses on the songs and are excited to see Unnecessary Evil start to creep up the charts!
Burning Questions Portion of the Show:
Outside of music, what are your hobbies, things you like to do to unplug from the world?
Tal: Lifting, holding, putting down
Myk: Video game collecting, auto sport, playing shitty punk music.
Jordan: Video games, cooking, and drinking craft beer!
What’s your favorite food, what do you like to eat, what’s the holy grail for you?
T:Lasagna and “My Cookie Dealer"!
M: Fish and Chips with a bottle of Keiths!
J: Pasta!
Favorite song of all time?
T: Sleep Walk - Santo & Johnny
M: Blue Sky - The Allman Brothers
J: You Could Be Mine - Guns N’ Roses
Favorite lyrics of all time?
T: “……………………………..” - Sleep Walk - Santos & Johnny
M: “I like my sugar with coffee and cream” - Intergalactic - The Beastie Boys
J: “Your next ex-lover will discover how your mother fucked you up.” Hard to Love - The Trews
Dream destination – bucket list vacation?
T: Amsterdam
M: Japan
J: Scotland
The holy grail to partner in a duet or collaboration?
T: Jordan Welbourne
M: Tallus Scott
J: Myk Ulan-Hohol
What have you been binge-watching this past year?
T: Married… With Children
M: Formula 1: Drive to Survive
J: Buffy the Vampire Slayer
First concert ticket your ever bought?
T: Marilyn Manson
M: Anthrax
J: Slipknot
The best part about being a musician?
T: Watching everyone around you grow up.
M: Getting payed in beer
J: Truck stop showers.
Favorite characteristic about yourself?
T: I try not to take myself too seriously.
M: I also don’t take him too seriously.
J: I also don’t take them too seriously.
What is the biggest misconception about being a musician – people think you have this glamour’s life about being a musician out on tour, lots of money, they don’t realize the grind it takes to make it in this business, the blood sweat, and tears that go into making it?
Did we mention the TRUCK STOP SHOWERS?
Artist/Group Attention is the new currency, it used to be talent and it has now become a dance between attention and talent. What are the challenges you face…?
We try not to focus on that, and just try to make good music that our fans will enjoy!
''I had a great time talking to Jordan and Myk. To hear the full interview that has lots of laughs and great stories, click the link below.''
W3APONS has been working under the mentorship of John-Angus MacDonald from The Trews. John-Angus, in addition to collaborating with the band as a producer and songwriter, has also continually offered career and professional advice which has been invaluable to W3APONS success to date.
W3APONS lead singer and guitar player Jordan Welbourne's vocal's in the new single ''Unnecessary Evil'' brought me back to the class rock greats like Brian Adams with its hard-hitting lyrics and everything Rock & Roll.
W3APONS independent charting successes and relentless touring in 2019 resulted in them opening for Theory of a Deadman to accompany Theory for all 21 Canadian dates of their Say Nothing 2020 World Tour.
Drummer/vocalist Tallus Scott, bassist/vocalist Myk Ulan-Hohol, and guitarist/vocalist Jordan Welbourne are the elements in the perfect storm that is W3APONS - Energetic, Hard-hitting, and unmistakably Rock & Roll.
W3APONS has shared the stage with Theory of a Deadman, The Trews, Monster Truck, Sweeney Todd, The Lazys, and The Wild.
It has no doubt been a while since you have heard any new music from JUNO Award-nominated and multi-Platinum, Edmonton, AB-based pop band, Stereos.
The MuchMusic fan favorites are releasing their new single “Look Good” on June 10, 2021, via all streaming platforms. Released 12 years after the band’s first single ‘Summer Girl’, the band was inspired by the pandemic and their personal lives which they turned into an upbeat pop song that will be the anthem for summer 2021.
Said lead vocalist Patrick Kordyback, “everyone who hears ‘Look Good’ will go, ‘yes, it’s a song for the summer.’ It’s an upbeat pop tune. However, when we wrote that song with my buddy, Dan Davidson, he had the idea where the chorus was ‘damn you look good’ – kind of a ‘picking someone up’ song, but because of everything we were going through we said, ‘No, let’s make it the flip side of that – let’s make it about self-love in the face of situations that make it difficult to feel good about yourself. Let’s make it about being happy with yourself no matter what.”
“Look Good” comes after the latest track “Sunset Gold” which was released quietly in February 2020. “Sunset Gold'' is a pulsing pop song that has paved the way for Stereos to introduce their new direction in music. Although the song may sound like a love-tune to fans, Kordyback wrote this song about the band getting back together. When it comes to the lyrics of their upcoming single “Look Good”, each member has a different meaning to the song as it represents how the band feels and the troubles they have experienced throughout this past year.
Founded in Edmonton, Alberta in 2006,Stereos first gained notoriety after appearing on the MuchMusic original series, disBAND. Following the release of their self-titled, debut album their popularity exploded. On the strength of singles like ‘Summer Girl’ (3XPlatinum) ‘Throw Ya Hands Up’ (2XPlatinum) and ‘Turn It Up’ (Platinum), the band began touring relentlessly and ultimately racked up JUNO Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Pop Album in 2010.
''Stereos are back and better than ever with their new single 'Look Good', says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazineand host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''This song has such a positive message emphasizing the importance of having your own voice and your own place in this world especially during these difficult times that the world is facing right now. The loss of identity is a challenge that so many are struggling with today and this was an opportunity to show unity and acceptance of one another in the lyrics of this song. It's ok to be different and to allow yourself to be comfortable in your own skin and living your life as authentically as you chose. This is a powerful message that 'Look Good' stands for. There is nothing more perfect in the visual representation for the #LookGood single cover, featuring the amazing Aurora Matrix and shot by Stereos good friend LeeZavitz.''
''I had an amazing chat with Pat Kordyback that left me feeling like no time has passed at all,'' says Cyr. ''The pop group will always and forever have their identity as pop royalty in the Canadian music landscape. The music industry platform has changed a great deal since MuchMusic being the source for fans to watch and hear new music. The digital age and streaming platforms evolved allowing fans to hear music in different cultures and countries that they may have never heard before. Kordyback shares the challenges and the silver lining coming back from their hiatus.''
To hear the full interview, please click the link below. You don't want to miss the Burning Questions portion of the show that will put a smile on your face. I guarantee it!
Photography by Jr. Walker 
Photography by Jr. Walker
Music's Journey Podcast 
Music's Journey Podcast 
Music's Journey Podcast 
