Author Archives: Alana Black

Cafe Deux Soleil

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(Adobe Stock)

There’s a special place that I want to tell you about. Cafe Deux Soleil was the place where magic happened. It lived up to its name by being a little ray of sunshine in mine, and I know a lot of people’s lives. It’s where I first stepped onto a stage in front of an audience, where I truly discovered Vancouver’s music scene, and where I stumbled upon the wild world of slam poetry. Before I set foot in that space, I had no idea slam poetry even existed. Then one night, I watched someone take the mic and absolutely ninja their way into my heart with their rhythm and fierce, captivating words. I was hooked.

I remember my first open mic there like it was yesterday. I was 17, nervous as hell, and barely able to hold my guitar steady as I played some covers I had obsessively practiced for weeks. My hands shook the entire set, and I still don’t know how I got through it. But when I finished, the crowd erupted into applause, and I was showered with compliments and “good jobs” from everyone around me. It was a moment I’ll never forget.

What made Cafe Deux Soleil so special wasn’t just the performances; it was the community. It was a place that always felt packed, yet the crowd was diverse, open, and supportive. Everyone was genuinely invested in each other’s art. Whether you were a musician, poet, or performer of any kind, the vibe was always the same: we were all there to celebrate one another and the unique things we brought to the table.

There are plenty of open mics in Vancouver, but nothing ever quite captured the same feeling as Cafe Deux Soleil. It had a special, undeniable energy that made it stand out. Even though it’s gone, that spirit lives on in the corners of every venue in this city. 

A little piece of sunshine, always.

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Who the F is Nardwuar?

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Oh, you want to know who Nardwuar is? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because you’re in for a wild ride.

Nardwuar the Human Serviette (yes, that’s his real name; he legally changed it in 1986) is a Canadian journalist, musician, and interviewer extraordinaire. His unique style of interview has made him a favourite among fans.

Imagine a whirlwind of plaid, armed with a meaningful, but obscure gift, a tam o’ shanter perched jauntily atop his head, and an encyclopedic knowledge of his interview subjects. 

He was born John Ruskin in Vancouver in 1968 and first made waves as a punk rock frontman with his band, The Evaporators. He was also a UBC student and got his start volunteering with the campus radio station there. He graduated with a degree in history in 1990. But it’s his role as a man-on-the-street interviewer that has cemented his place in pop culture history. 

He starts every interview with “Who are you?” and ends them with “Keep on rocking in the free world…doot doodle doot doo” with which the interviewer is required to respond with “doot doo.” His interviews are a blend of humour, surprise, genuine curiosity, and passion for reaching beyond the surface-level persona of his guests.

He also likes to freeze in place for random amounts of time with a stoked expression on his face. Sort of like you took a picture, and now you’re looking at the Polaroid. It’s both unsettling and outrageously funny.

Over the years, Nardwuar has interviewed a who’s who of the music world, from Kurt Cobain and Snoop Dogg to Kendrick Lamar. His interactions with these stars have become legendary. 

He’s known for his rapid-fire questions, quirky demeanour, and the ability to unearth the most obscure facts about his guests. But it’s not just about the questions. Nardwuar also brings personalized gifts that leave his interviewees stunned and delighted. For example, during an interview with Pharrell Williams, Nardwuar presented him with a vinyl record with the first recorded track Pharrell ever worked on, “Rump Shaker”. Pharrell was first speechless and then said, “This is … this is … This is one of the most impressive interviews I’ve ever experienced in my life. Seriously.”

But he doesn’t always manage to charm his guests with all of his fantastically quirky qualities. Nardwuar’s unconventional style has occasionally ruffled feathers. Some have been caught off guard by his probing questions and unique approach. For example, while being interviewed by Nardwuar, Sebastian Bach, the frontman of Skid Row, was so taken aback that he snatched Nardwuar’s tam o’shanter right off his head.  

Despite these rare times when someone decides against being cool, Nardwuar’s charm lies in his authenticity and passion for music and culture. He’s genuinely interested in the stories behind the artists. His interviews are a testament to his dedication and love for his craft and that of his guests.

So, who is Nardwuar? He’s the quirky, plaid-clad microphone-wielding human serviette who has turned interviews into an art form. With his unique blend of humour, knowledge, and genuine curiosity, Nardwuar captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression on the world. He’s truly one of Canada’s most eccentric and beloved cultural icons.

Check out his interview with Snoop Dogg below:

Doot doodle doot doot….doot doot.

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Leisure Club “22”

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What you need on a breezy sunny day like today is Vancouver-based indie rock band Leisure Club’s track “22”. It’s a feel-good anthem that encapsulates the essence of youthful exuberance and the complexities of early adulthood. Released as a lead-up single to their debut full-length album, “22” showcases the band’s ability to blend catchy pop sensibilities with introspective lyrics.​

You’ll be immersed from the opening chords of “22” in a soundscape reminiscent of sun-soaked afternoons and carefree adventures. The track’s upbeat tempo, complemented by jangly guitars and smooth synths, creates an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Guitarist Graham Madden describes the song as “a no-nonsense pop song” that delves into the “confusing landscape of truly caring for someone for the first time”.

While the song’s melody is undeniably catchy, it’s the lyrics that add depth to its seemingly lighthearted exterior. The narrative explores the vulnerability and uncertainty of young love, capturing the hesitations and hopes that accompany the desire for connection. Lines like “try to say maybe, won’t you come save me” and “call me your lover, not just another passerby in your bed” reflect the yearning for genuine affection and commitment.​

Recorded at Afterlife and Fader Master Studios in Vancouver, the production of “22” mirrors its thematic content. The polished yet organic sound allows each instrument to shine, from the rhythmic basslines to the shimmering keys. The track’s arrangement ensures that the focus remains on the song’s emotional core, enhancing its impact.​

“22” by Leisure Club is a reflection on the complexities of love and the journey of self-discovery. With its infectious melody and introspective lyrics, I think we can all agree that the track positions Leisure Club as a band to watch in the indie music scene.

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Vancouver’s top open mic nights. Where talent meets community

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Vancouver’s open mic nights offer a vibrant tapestry of creativity, welcoming performers of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a first-time performer, these venues provide a platform to share your talent and connect with the community.

Trees Organic Coffee House – Downtown Vancouver

When: Thursdays from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM  

Where: 450 Granville Street, Vancouver  

Ages: All ages 

Nestled in the heart of downtown, Trees Organic Coffee House hosts one of Vancouver’s most beloved open mic nights. Under the guidance of host Marq DeSouza, the event showcases a diverse array of performers, from musicians to spoken word artists and stand-up comedians. The café’s warm ambiance, coupled with its renowned organic coffee and award-winning cheesecakes, creates a welcoming environment for both performers and audiences. Sign-up begins at 7:15 PM on a first-come, first-served basis, with each performer allotted three songs unless the evening is particularly busy. In that case, each performer is given two songs, with the possibility of an additional song if time permits.  

https://treescoffee.com/live-music-nights/

 

The ANZA Club – Mount Pleasant

When: First Thursday of every month, 7:00 PM  

Where: 3 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver  

Ages: 19+ 

Located in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood, The ANZA Club offers an intimate setting for artists to showcase their talents. The open mic night, held on the first Thursday of each month, focuses on live, original music, though covers and spoken word performances are also welcome. Each month’s theme encourages performers to explore new material, fostering a creative environment. Doors open and sign-up begin at 6:30 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM. Performers receive two staff-priced drink tickets, and members enjoy free entry with a $5 cover charge for non-members.

https://www.anzaclub.org/

 

Bully’s Studios – New Westminster

When: Wednesdays from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM  

Where: 67 6th Street, New Westminster  

Instruments Provided: Yes

For those seeking a more rock-oriented open mic experience, Bully’s Studios in New Westminster is the place to be. Offering a full backline, including drums and amplifiers, performers can focus on their music without the hassle of bringing their own equipment. The venue’s relaxed atmosphere and supportive community make it an ideal spot for musicians to jam and connect.

Whether you’re looking to perform, discover new talent, or simply enjoy an evening of live entertainment, these venues offer something for everyone. So grab your instrument, your poetry, or your voice, and step into one of Vancouver’s open mic nights to experience the city’s dynamic arts scene firsthand.

https://www.bullysstudios.ca/

 

 

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Meltt “Love Again”

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Allow me to bring you back to 2019 for a moment. It’s arguably before a lot of things went sideways. 

Anyways.

It’s 2019. Meltt masterfully blends side-chained future bass sounds with a lush wall of synths and layers the track with a crisp, catchy guitar lick with a tasty tone. A perfectly bouncy bassline adds just enough groove to make you nod along. The vocals enter the mix sounding like they’re coming through a vintage microphone, drenched in reverb and full of character.

You’re looking for love. More precisely, you’re looking to find the love you had and somehow lost along the way.

The lyrics tell a story as old as time. A classic “Should I stay or should I go?”

I’ve been there. We all have. Wondering if we’re meant to settle. Is this as good as it gets? Or does something better, something truer, wait on the other side of heartbreak?

Then comes the line that stops you in your tracks:

 

“Maybe, I could be growing, instead of always holding, half my life in doubtfulness.”

 

Because it’s not just about love. It’s about life. About every moment we’ve held back out of fear, every time we’ve clung to comfort when what we really needed was to let go.

Real growth isn’t soft or easy. It’s painful. Messy. Uncertain. It often means breaking something small to make space for something greater.

And that leap, that terrifying free fall with no guarantee, takes more than bravery. It takes faith.

Faith that there’s something better waiting.

Faith that you’re meant for more.

Faith in the scary, beautiful unknown.

 

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

The Kozmik Zoo was a real place, I swear

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(The Kozmik Zoo)

I’m telling you, The Kozmik Zoo was a real place. I swear. 

It was on Broadway, it had a stage, a bar, and it served some of the most delicious Persian food you could find in the city.

The stage hosted an eclectic, ever-changing roster of performers. From Balkan big bands to improv comedy to Mashed Poetics, anything went, so long as it was good. Whatever took the stage always drew a crowd just as diverse and enthusiastic. You never really knew what you were walking into, but you knew it was going to be interesting.

The moment you walked in, your eyes landed on the giant yellow octopus mural sprawled across the wall. Its many tentacled limbs stretched out to hold various instruments, a drumstick here, a trumpet there, each one peppered between its swirling arms. The whole thing had a chaotic, psychedelic energy, yet somehow still felt inviting.

The space itself was mid-sized, just like the stage. Black dining tables and cushioned chairs filled the floor, unless the event called for more movement, in which case, they were pushed aside. At the back, opposite the stage, sat the bar. It had everything: every kind of liquor, syrup, concoction, and elixir you could imagine. Experimental cocktails were a house specialty. Whatever was in your glass was probably something you’d never tried before.

If you were there for a Balkan big band night, you knew what you were in for: a brass section weaving between the tables while playing full blast. I once watched a server struggle to deliver Zereshk Polo because a tuba had completely blocked the path.

Mashed Poetics brought out a wild mix of poets and rockers. I still remember Weezer night. An excellent cover band blasted through classics while poets performed slam pieces inspired by the songs between sets.

Improv comedy nights? Forget about finding a seat. The place would be packed wall to wall. There’d be a line out the door for a chance to see The Sunday Service, the wildly popular, award-winning comedy troupe that made the venue their home every Sunday.

The Kozmik Zoo was timeless. It was a tight-knit, supportive, and joyful community of artists and art lovers. It was a place for experimentation, discovery, and connection. Though its doors are now closed, its spirit lives on in the many artists and patrons who contributed to its magical space. I know I’ll carry the fond memory of the one and only Zoo with me for all my days.

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

 Music Video Review “Bubblegum” by Everlynx

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Everlynx’s “Bubblegum” is a visual and auditory journey that begins with the sweet simplicity of chewing bubblegum and gradually transforms into a surreal exploration of love and loss. The music video, directed by Darcy Touhey and filmed at Vancouver’s Ironworks Studios, envelops viewers in a pastel pink haze, mirroring the song’s melancholic tones. Sky Brown, the artist behind Everlynx, sought to create a visual representation of the song’s melancholic instrumentation through the pastel pink aesthetic of bubblegum. 

The video’s colour palette is dominated by soft pinks, creating a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. This choice transforms the video into a visual poem, where the colour palette plays a pivotal role in setting the mood. The soft lighting and pastel hues evoke a sense of longing and vulnerability, perfectly complementing the song’s introspective lyrics.

The cast, Coco Klein and Kieran Nelson, deliver performances that are both engaging and visually striking. Their costumes, chosen with care, add layers to the narrative, reflecting the song’s themes of fleeting connections. The styling complements the video’s dreamy quality, with Everlynx’s own cotton candy-like hair adding to the ethereal atmosphere.

“Bubblegum” delves into the transient nature of relationships, with the song’s title serving as a metaphor for a strong connection that eventually pops. The juxtaposition of something sweet and innocent with the inevitable end creates a poignant commentary on the fragility of human connections.

Everlynx’s “Bubblegum” is a complementary partnership of music and visual art, where every element, from the pastel colour palette to the performances, works in harmony to convey a deeper narrative. It’s a testament to the power of music videos as a medium for storytelling, offering viewers an experience that is both auditory and visual.

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Canzino – Vancouver’s live looping innovator

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Let me introduce you to Vancouver-based musician Canzino, who has been captivating audiences since 2014 with his unique blend of live looping, DJing, and electronic-infused rock. Combining improvisation with technology, he creates dynamic performances that blur the lines between genres.

Canzino’s musical journey was born out of necessity, emerging from a period of personal reflection. He shares, 

“I kind of didn’t want to play music anymore for a bit, and then realized I needed to keep on playing music as a mental health thing.” 

This realization led to the creation of his project, which he continues to develop and perform.

Over the years, Canzino has focused on refining his live setup to enhance his performances. He explains, 

“Probably favourite thing I’ve ever done with the project was to try and improve my audio setup and make it more dialled in, simpler to set up whenever I perform.” 

This streamlined approach allows for a more efficient and engaging live experience.

Currently, Canzino is expanding his musical horizons through collaborations with fellow artists. He mentions working with PerchedLeopard on the track “Ranger Signal” and exploring new creative processes. 

“I’m learning to write songs backwards… just performing random songs live and then trying to just record it after the fact,” 

This innovative approach keeps his music fresh and exciting.

Fans can look forward to Canzino’s upcoming shows, including performances at the Altitude Festival in Boston Bar and at Portside Pub in Vancouver. Additionally, he’s set to DJ at Space Toast at the Waldorf on July 12th, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees. 

Canzino’s dedication to his craft and willingness to innovate make him a standout figure in Vancouver’s music scene. His journey reflects the power of music as a personal and communal experience.

https://soundcloud.com/canzino/

https://www.instagram.com/canzinomusic/

https://www.canzino.com

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Bonerattle – East Van’s coolest little music (repair) shop

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If you’re a musician in East Vancouver, you’ve likely heard of Bonerattle Music—the shop that’s been dubbed “East Van’s coolest little music shop.” Once located on Commercial Drive, Bonerattle has evolved into a community-focused resource for musicians across the city. Now located in the Grandview-Woodland area, this beloved shop continues to uphold its mission of making music accessible to all by offering affordable instrument repairs and personalized service.

I’ve brought many guitars to Phil at Bonerattle. Whether they needed a proper setup or had some strange issue I couldn’t figure out, he’s made space in his day to help me out, often fixing small problems for free or for next to nothing. I always leave feeling genuinely cared for and valued as a musician. 

Bonerattle Music’s mission is to make music accessible to everyone. That means offering affordable, high-quality repairs for guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, and banjos. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, you can trust owner Phil and his team to restore your instrument to its best condition. It’s known for its efficient turnaround times and reasonable rates. For example, one reviewer shared, “I got my bass set up here a week back. Only $40 and it was finished the next day and it’s so so nice to play now.” This commitment to affordability ensures that musicians can keep their instruments in top shape without financial strain.

Understanding the busy lives of musicians, Bonerattle Music offers pickup and drop-off repair services. This added convenience allows customers to have their instruments serviced without disrupting their schedules. Whether you’re a working professional or a student, this service ensures that getting your instrument repaired is hassle-free.

Additionally, Bonerattle provides a selection of strings, accessories, and instruments, with free local delivery available. This holistic approach ensures that musicians have access to all the resources they need in one place.

Bonerattle Music stands as a testament to the power of community and the importance of accessible music services. With its affordable repair options, convenient services, and dedication to fostering a musical community, Bonerattle continues to be East Vancouver’s coolest little music shop. Whether you’re in need of a quick fix or looking to start your musical journey, Bonerattle Music is here to support you every step of the way.

http://www.bonerattle.com/

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca

Rose Motion

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If you haven’t heard Rose Motion yet, I’m here to fix that for you. 

Rose Motion began as a fun idea, born from years of experience in making music with various other projects. As Malik explains, “We actually started it right before Covid, thinking that Covid wouldn’t have happened. And then it did. So we were just kind of grinding on that idea for a while. I do this project with Jamie Rose, who is now my girlfriend, but was my best friend when we started it. We’ve been based in Vancouver for the majority of it.”

The project came to life from a desire to create something fresh and exciting. For the creator, the most rewarding part of the process is always being in the studio. 

 

“My favorite part about the project, and really all my music projects, is just being in the studio creating,” 

 

they share. While performing live is an incredible experience, especially when sharing the stage with Landy, the magic of making music is where the true connection happens. “The shows are great. And, you know, one of the highlights being playing with Landy, that was insane. And the crowd reaction. It just goes off.”

 

”It’s really rewarding seeing people really enjoy the music that you’ve spent hours and months and years sometimes creating,” 

 

they explain. However, no matter how exciting the performances, the studio will always be the heart of their passion.

Looking ahead, Rose Motion is thrilled for their upcoming shows, including a mini-tour in Vancouver at the end of May. Before that, they’re releasing a collaboration with Glass Petals, Felix Cartel’s project, titled Just Let Go, which will be released on Night Base. 

“So hella pumped for that one. That track goes hard every time we play at a show. It just goes off,” 

 

they say, expressing excitement about the track’s high-energy vibe.

In addition to the Vancouver tour, the band will also be performing on the mainstage at Escapade Music Festival in Ottawa, a show they can hardly wait for. 

 

“I can’t even put into words how excited I am to perform at that one,” 

 

they admit. Beyond that, they have more releases in the works, including collaborations with Gemstone (part of Revealed) and Strange Love (part of Toru), all set to drop in the summer.

Listen to Rose Motion here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6uyugtkUnBNsMZNGmkj9oX

Written by Alana Black | Evolution Media

www.alanablackmedia.com

 

Contact: ablack23@my.bcit.ca