Author Archives: Volante Matheson

Co-op Radio 100.5 FM – a nugget of Vancouver history.

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(Vancouver Co-op Radio / Bandcamp)

Do you know about Vancouver’s Co-op Radio? Tune in on your radio dial to CFRO 100.5 FM!

Now you might be sitting there thinking “You’re writing for Evolution 1079, how dare thee write for a rival radio station??”

Well Co-op Radio is not in competition with anyone! They are a non-commercial, community-owned radio, where every radio dj is a volunteer who just loves radio! This station has been running in Vancouver since April 14th, 1975. It was founded by volunteers from local activist groups, created in order to provide a platform for voices and perspectives often underrepresented in mainstream media. In fact that is their mission. Approximately 20% of its programming is broadcast in languages other than English and French. As stated on their website “We give priority to people from language groups who have no access to media or who wish to provide a significant alternative to existing media outlets for that group.”

In 1973 Co-op Radio was an idea between two different groups – The Muckrakers and Neighbourhood Radio. They were two stations that were passionate about creating alternative press on issues that were being ignored. In their origin year, 231 shareholders of Vancouver’s Co-op Radio presented to the CRTC and received their first licence. Then in 1980 Co-op Radio received recognition and award, the national Media Human Rights Award from the League for Human Rights of B’nai B’nai. What a triumph! Not only was Vancouver becoming the birth hub to amazing musicians in the 70s and 80s, but media was following suit. Further extending the era of creative expression that was happening in Vancouver at this time.

(Vancouver Co-op Radio)

Vancouver Co-op Radio’s original dwellings were in the former Mercantile Bank building in Vancouver’s Pigeon Park (the corner of Carrall and Hastings St.) Because this building had been empty for 15 years, they write on their webpage, “Founders of Co-op Radio had to shovel 2 inches of pigeon droppings off the floor of the building.” Years later they would secure a new transmitter, broadcasting from the top of Mount Seymour and moving their station to the FM dial. Eventually they had to leave their original building and found secure accommodation… 220 metres away! A space by the Portland Hotel society in 2001. In 2012 they adopted a new frequency at 100.5 FM and this is where we know and love them today.

I first experienced Co-op Radio when I was driving in traffic one day, flipping through stations, I’d heard all these songs before. But then I started tuning into Co-op Radio. Somedays it would be reggae, somedays it would be spoken-word poetry, then it would be an Indigenous talk panel. This was amazing! More often than not I would hear something new and different that I loved on the radio.

(Vancouver Co-op Radio)

Then one day I came across this goofy duo that was on every Wednesday from 2:30-3:30pm. They had such silly talks back and forth, and ended every episode with a dance party. Best of all they were playing all Canadian music. My tastes previously were spread across the planet. Finding GOOD MUSIC, not specifically music made from home. So every time a song came on that shocked my senses, it was an added pleasure to realize they were Canadian!

But Kenan and Charlie on No Apologies Necessary also talked about real world issues. No silly banter back and forth like you’d here on corporate radio stations. They used their talk time to address mental health, the drug epidemic, what musicians were doing during COVID, the mental health repercussions with COVID. Even though I tuned in as COVID was happening, they were still conducting interviews over the phone with musicians all confined in their creative dungeons. I wanted to be part of this!

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

One day I sent them a message. I offered my photography to shadow them for a bit. A friendship was made, and eventually I was invited to host with them. COVID lifted and I started to interview, prepare weekly discussions, source out local musicians and artists. This was exactly what I wanted to be doing – and learning through the standards of Co-op Radio will shine through wherever I go forth.

It’s how I found myself here at BCIT in the Radio Arts & Entertainment Program. I was learning so much that I wanted to make something with what I’ve been learning. Since Co-op Radio is volunteer run, it was not a financially feasible option for my every day. So I found BCIT. Yikes have I been learning a lot here.

When the semester ends I will return to our weekly 2:30-3:30pm programming with No Apologies Necessary, on Wednesdays at 100.5 FM. I will show them what I’ve been learning and how I’ve been helping keep the honour of Vancouver’s history of radio and music.

Since COVID, Co-op Radio has been consistently struggling financially. With yearly fundraisers, and each radio host doing their part to contribute, the future of Co-op Radio looks dire. I implore you to revisit your relationship with this radio station. It has given so much to the city and doesn’t deserve to fizzle out like all these amazing music and art venues we’ve seen come and go.

Find out more about Co-op Radio Station below:

coopradio.org

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

I’ll Shmalkan you!

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(Balkan Shmalkan)

Prepare yourself, for Balkan Shmalkan! Another rambunctious, energetic, brass-bopping band from Vancouver, BC. They are a lively dance orchestra that draws upon inspiration from Roma and Klezmorim traditions of Eastern Europe and mixes that together with pop, funk, and jazz.

The group features six to twelve musicians who play reed, brass, and percussion –   and songs are sung in 6 different languages including Serbian, Romani, and Italian!

The group formed in 2015 brought together by a passion and history in traditional South Serbian Trubaci music. They have performed at venues around Vancouver and festivals all over! Including Punkstravaganza VIII at the Rickshaw Theatre in 2024 alongside bands like The Dreadnoughts and You Big Idiot. They were also part of the Burnaby Blues & Roots Festival in 2022, sharing the stage with The War on Drugs and Ruby Waters!

(Balkan Shmalkan)

One of the more notable memories I have of Balkan Shmalkan was learning of their summertime outdoor jam sessions in Trout Lake Park! Here I was waltzing through the park on a gentle, sunny day. Then suddenly musicians started to gather under the trees near the lake… and there were a LOT of them. I will have to inquire if these weekly jam sessions still happen, because its a wonderful free concert to everyone in the neighbourhood. Unless Balkan music isn’t your style.

Let me educate you:

Balkan refers to music of the Balkans, a culturally diverse region in Southeast Europe. This includes influences from Slavic, Ottoman/Turkish/ Romani (Gypsy), Greek, and Jewish/Klezmer music. It reflects centuries of cultural blending and migration. This traditional music is tied to life events – such as weddings, funerals, seasonal festivals. In modern times its common to see this music in street festivals and brass band parades. Balkan music incredibly expressive, joyful and energetic, but also capable of melancholy and longing – often shifting moods within a single song.

You know what fun fact I love about Balkan music? The custom to submit a tip into the brass instruments! When I met with members of Balkan Shmalkan they remarked how gross (and wonderful) it was to pull out saliva soaked bills from their instruments. Phew I think I’ll sit that experience out!

It is a custom to not only stuff bills inside the instruments, but to press the money to the musicians forehead to show joy, gratitude, and encouragement. Tips could also come in the form of a song request, or to request of a singular musician to do a solo!

I researched some other customs that come along with Balkan music and this is what I found out:

  1. Showering with money. In the same encouraging tipping form, money is thrown over the musicians!
  2. Dancing on tables and chairs. Because Balkan music is big, and loud, and bouncy.
  3. Traditional “kolo” circle that is an unstoppable spiral at parties.
  4. Kidnapping the bride (at weddings).. I wonder if this custom is still acceptable!
  5. Drummers tease. Big bass drummers (‘tapan’ players) will playfully whack dancers with their mallets, gently of course. Unless you messed with the drummer earlier.
  6. Wacky costumes. Nothing says a team on a mission like funny uniforms, vintage military gear, or glittery getups. Something you definitely see with Balkan Shmalkan.

In fact as research shows, Balkan Shmalkan led the Parade for No Reason at Ignite The Arts Festival this year!

(Balkan Shmalkan / Facebook)

Unfortunately no shows are recorded at this time. But Balkan Shmalkan is a big summertime party player, so we will likely be hearing their plan soon.

Check out more about Balkan Shmalkan below:

balkanshmalkan.ca

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

Light your spark at Ignite The Arts Music Festival

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(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

This is your call-to-action for another epic and magical British Columbia festival held in Penticton, British Columbia. You know, that place thats a wonderful 4-5 hour drive away from Vancouver city through the wonderous landscape that makes you beyond tickled to live in such a beautiful place. Situated in the Okanagan Valley, Penticton is a wonderful getaway for you and the family. Swim in one of the glorious lakes, the Okanagan Lake that lays to the north of the city or the Skaha Lake to the south. However I will always remember it as the place with the giant art installation of a peach, right on the water, that looks suspiciously like a booty (from behind).

(Roadside America)

Well Penticton is also home to the annual Ignite The Arts Festival! A jovial, family-friendly art and music festival that is spread across multiple venues in Penticton. This festival spans over 10 days. The first part ‘Community Week’ running from March 21st to 27th. This Community Week includes numerous free events, including art walks, creative camps, artist talks, and whimsical activities like the Parade for No Reason.

Following this artful and interactive week comes the festival weekend. From March 28th to 29th the downtown Penticton area is transformed into a bustling hub of art and music. From the small interactions I’ve had with the locals, they LOVE IT. The event brings many people from all walks of life – whether your an art creator or art surveyor, Penticton is happy to have you. Festival Weekend includes over 70 musical and performing acts across 9 venues in Penticton.

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

I must say, I love this layout of a festival. Following the map and trying to get from one venue across the city to another has you exploring the town in a way you might not have if the entirety of the festival was held on a mere grassy hill. You pass by shops, restaurants, venues, and locals all milling about in this incredible backdrop that Penticitonites get to live every day.

This Festival honours their Indigenous predecessors and “is committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts.” You can see this through key Indigenous features including dance, music, visual art, storytelling and film. The festival aims to foster reconciliation through prominently featuring Indigenous peoples throughout its programming and partnerships.

Beyond the music and art, there is a strong notion towards wellness-focused activities. Such as somatic movement classes and mental health check-up sessions. This is a beautiful interactive element to the festival that brings light to the on-going mental health struggles many of us face, even in the midst of a spring time celebratory event. How true and genuine for the festival creators to still hold space for this very real, on-going aspect of art.

Would you believe how AFFORDABLE these tickets are? Youth tickets are available at $25, with children aged 12 and under attending for free. Then adult weekend passes start at $75, which includes a $15 voucher redeemable for merchandise or food and beverages at participating venues. What an incredible deal for the multitude of everything you’ll experience in one weekend!

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

Now you know about the music, but lets get into the types of workshops offered at Ignite the Arts. There is a ‘Fools Proof Clowning Workshop’ led by Nayanna Fielkov, which offers experimental games and exercises to cultivate curiosity and emotional range. I’ve got a close friend who participated in a Clowning Course here in Vancouver, BC, and it was astounding to see the parallels between what they were learning and what mental health professional tote in a counselling session. This is essentially Art Expression Therapy.

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

Then you have the Men’s Sweat Workshop conducted by Saul Squakin, a Syilx man from the Lower Similkameen Indian Band. He guides participants through his journey of wellness and its role in the community and traditional healing.

Then we have a beading workshop led by 3 Jack Generation Hand Drummers, where you will get hands-on experience in traditional beading. A workshop for all ages. There is a Synth Petting Zoo, an opportunity to experiment with synthesizers, effect pedals, loopers, and more. Or Writing Workshops with Tom Leveen. There are art installations, sculpture days, and the Parade for No Reason. A mental health circle, creative wellness workshops, contact dance and prop flow workshops, and even yoga!

It goes beyond a doubt that Ignite The Arts Festival is filled to the brim with everything and anything you can imagine. A cohort of happy community members all coming together to take part in this epic celebration.

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

As you might’ve put together, Ignite The Arts Festival has already passed this year. Taking place from March 21st – 29th, 2025. But don’t let this get you down in the dumps. Ignite The Arts creators collaborate with many upcoming British Columbia Festivals. Including ArtsWells which is whispered to be making a reappearance after many a-year of hiatus, AND Woodstove Festival which happens in the midst of seasonal depression during November in the lovely art-filled town of Cumberland.

Tell your family members that next year end of March is booked. It will help you shake the dust off your feathers from a sun-reaped wintertime, and make you adore just being alive. Because when you see the amount of volunteers and artists contributing their time to such an amazing festival, it relights the fire of life. A classic spring-time offering.

For more about Ignite the Arts Festival click the links below:

ignitethearts.ca

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

An ode to his Mama – Arlene Kaytor

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(Arlene Kaytor / Boomplay)

If you have yet to hear about Arlene Kaytor, you may remember the band it spawned from Lambsbreath. This band blends together indie pop, psychedelic rock, alt R&B, and modern alt-rock. As I was a big fan of the sound Lambsbreath was putting out, it was disappointing to hear that the band was dissolving due to internal differences. But the disappointment wouldn’t last long as Arlene Kaytor was blooming from the decay!

Named after the late and great mother of lead guitar and vocalist Mark Lingelbach, Arlene Kaytor brings rapturous nostalgia, lulling echoing lyrics, and wit. The members include Mark Lingelbach on guitars and vocals. Kevan (Tobacco Brown) Schell on guitar and vocals. Blu Belsher with the guitar and synth. Chris Johnson on bass, and Michael Wadham on drums.

(Fog Fotág / Imgur)

I had the pleasure of meeting Mark Lingelbach and Blu Belsher when I first started out at No Apologies Necessary radio. This was back in the COVID days when everything was juuuuust starting to become normal again. We invited the group to my cohost’s backyard studio “Post-Cool Studios” and had a rampant ‘ol time. They handled themselves well! I was just beginning to see the nature between performer and interviewee. Some musicians rocked the stage to then come into a recorded interview and shy right up. This wasn’t the case with Mark and Blu. They were a jovial pair that brought light and hilarity to the interview. It made me like them so much as humans that suddenly I liked their music even more.

Have you ever had that before? Where you love someones art, then you meet them and they are rude and arrogant and suddenly you can’t like their music anymore? Well I loved this feeling, in reverse. Where you meet the musician and suddenly it made you want to pull apart their lyrics and love their music even more.

Well these two came in tow with a producer and musician they’d been working with, T-Rav the Transformer. You but need a mere click on the interweb before you find Travis’ (T-Rav) amazing art. But today he was here as part of Lambsbreath. Having produced a couple of their songs and taken part in their music videos.

Here’s a taste of what Lambsbreath and T-Rav were creating at the time:

But even with all these fond memories, it was a pleasant turn of events to hear that Lambsbreath was evolving into Arlene Kaytor. This would allow the band to even further find what made them, and produce the kind of music we all needed to hear. Indie rock, folk, experimental. This journey from Lambsbreath to Arlene Kaytor is a testament to the power of reinvention and the enduring pursuit of musical excellence.

(Arlene Kaytor / Facebook)

Now as a final note, and ode to the creative passion behind everything Mark Lingelbach touches. Mark is actually an graphic novel illustrator! I first learnt this when I bought some of the epic merch Lambsbreath created, by the hands of Mark Lingelbach. One of my favourite sweatshirts titled SpaceBar was based off the well-known Vancouver graphic novel creator Simon Roy. Now if BCIT decides to give me a forum for all the amazing graphic novelists in Vancouver, I would explode with information. But I will keep this brief. Due to their on-going friendship, Mark eventually released his own comic “Good as New” and celebrated this launch with his own craft beer from ‘Off The Rail Brewing’. In fact Mark has now released a second graphic novel called “Better Now”. Hopefully with some imploring by his friend named ME he will sequester up a booth at VanCaf where we can all purchase this new addition. I wish I could write a whole article about VanCaf…

Not only this but he runs his own t-shirt printing company with OUT OF THIS WORLD designs by Mark. Mark allowed me one day to watch over his shoulder as he created an epic t-shirt that would be my nephew’s birthday gift – although I should’ve kept it for myself. If you’re a band looking for merch to blow your fans away, check out @futureinktraditions. If you’re just an average human looking for the worlds sickest t-shirt, then hit him up. Because I’m wearing all my purchases to death!

(Future Ink Traditions)

Find out more about Arlene Kaytor through the links below:

Keep your eyes locked on Evolution’s New Music podcast, as Mark will be featured in an upcoming episode!

For a taste of Arlene Kaytor’s insane tunes watch the video below:

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

Post-doom in all the right places

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(Druin / Bandcamp)

The first time I met Ross he was setting up for his first night as Audio Tech at the Biltmore Cabaret. I was off to the side killing time by creating an art-music video on my phone.

“Check out what I’m doing!” I said as he passed nearby. From this brief interaction I learnt he was a visual artist too. In fact he was in the processes of building an art and light installation at one of the downtown Vancouver art galleries. I knew we’d get along.

I’d later meet Ross again at a local bar called Hail Mary’s. What might see like a hole in the wall is actually revered throughout the late-night industry workers as THE place. You begin by knocking on the door. Hailey, the bar owner, is selective with the patrons that enter through, especially late at night. So she checks who’s at the locked door through the security camera and if its too busy, you’ll be left outside needing to find another watering hole. If there is space, she opens the door and invites you in.

Hailey careful cultivates the seating arrangement in this small venue. If you’re looking for privacy she offers you one of the booths, if you’re looking to be a part of the conversation she adds you to the colourful line up of patrons at the bar. The top of the bar is encircled with old VHS videos, almost all the good ones you can imagine. Each time one finishes playing on the teeny tiny tv screen, Hailey grabs her robo-toy arm and selects a new one. Images of religious jest everywhere the eye can see, sexual, nefarious, hilarious. It fits the image of Hail Mary’s.

Finally you notice the bathrooms. Saint and Sinner are your choices. I chose Sinner the first time, we all know sinners are the coolest. But low and behold when you choose Saint it is not as Saintly as you might imagine. The walls are plastered with wonderfully sexual “Saint” images. Yes this whole space is a personality of its own.

(Hail Mary’s)

This is where I’d get to know Ross better. A local Rigger who worked in stadiums and film sets. A person with many passions, visual arts, scoring high-up in the death-by-fall realm all crazy riggers live in, a post-doom musician and producer… and oh ya, a captivating cat dad.

What is post-doom you may ask? Post-doom is a sub-genre of heavy metal that incorporates elements of doom metal with other genres like post-rock, post-metal, and shoe gaze. It’s characterized by slow, heavy riffs, often with a melancholic atmosphere and elements of ambient music.

I’d later learn more about Ross when my romantic partner moved in with him for a short period of time. Druin had yet to release any music, but now I got to be privy to the making-of. Through the walls I’d hear eclectic riffs. The buzz of metal strings somehow melding together sounds in a way my brain did not compute. He had numerous pedals set up that seemed to bend sound even further. Notably ridiculously expensive equipment…. but in the hands of someone who undoubtedly deserved them.

(Adobe Stock)

I reached out to Ross to ask him a little more about the band origins. I was told that Druin started off as a solo act, relying heavily on synthesizers and drum machines to produce everything. However the challenge came when Ross was trying to figure out how to do odd time signatures within the sequencer.

(Druin / Bandcamp)

“It wasn’t something I was able to make happen so I had to recruit band members to get the ideas across.” – Ross Albrecht

After finding the perfect fit with bandmates he told me that it just made sense to scrap all those original ideas and write new material with them. This was a challenge in and of itself, “but it ended up becoming something of its own.” -Ross Albrecht

Ross went on to tell me that his favourite part of the music creation was writing leads to the riffs he created.

“I feel a particular trance in doing that. I’ll have a riff I’m working on, and spend hours working out those leads just in my head before I even touch the guitar.” – Ross Albrecht

Druin has released their first album ‘The Goat Whispering in the Panthers Ear’ which you can listen to here.

The band has an upcoming show on May 10th at Grey Lab (address will be emailed with ticket purchase). You can find the information you need for the show here.

Find out more about Druin below:

Find their music on Bandcamp and Spotify.

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

Fuzzed out with Dead Soft

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(Dead Soft / Bandcamp)

This is Dead Soft. A grunge, punk, dream-pop band from Vancouver, BC. Grunge-punk, as seen in their earlier works album ‘Dead Soft’ (2014), a raw fuzz-driven sound of classical grunge infused with punk energy. Dream-pop, with tracks like ‘The Static’ explores ethereal soundscapes with introspective lyrics. Then a taste of alternative rock as seen in their 2019 album ‘Big Blue’ – a refined polished sound of alt rock with melodic pop woven in.

If you have never heard Dead Soft’s sound before, then picture the grit of 90s grunge, the urgency of punk, and the introspection of dream-pop all rolled into one.

What is dream-pop you might ask? As written in Michael Priminani’s article of genre breakdown dream-pop is “immersive mystical rhythms. Synths and layered guitars soaked in reverb to sound like they are bellowing out of a cathedral, resting on a cloud.”

The band is composed of Nathaniel Epp on vocals and guitar. Keeley Rochon on bass and vocals. Kyle Schick on guitar, and Alex Smith on drums. Their 2018 EP New Emotion showcases this evolution of band sound from grunge to alt rock, where they are now. As some songs feature duelling guitars and playful harmonies, and then others dive into the dream-pop synth on a cloud themes.

In January 2025, Dead Soft performed at the Unreal City Music Festival in Vancouver, BC. Here they shared the stage with other well-known bands like La Lune and Aversions. If you’re into bands like early era Weezer, Built to Spill, or Smashing Pumpkins, mix in a little indie edge and you’ve found yourself at Dead Soft.

(Dead Soft / Facebook)

Guitarist Nathaniel Epp states in an article with Beat Route Magazine, “There has been no deliberate attempt to become heavier. I feel like our sound is just expanding in this way that makes the soft parts softer and the heavy parts heavier.” – Nathanial Epp

Bass and vocalist Keeley Rochon comments to writer Ryan Leas in an article by Stereogum that, “It’s about trusting that you will get to where you’re going. I didn’t know what that change would look like but I could feel it coming and braced myself with the fact that truth and love will prevail in the end.”

This is another addition that shows Dead Soft’s blend of musical intensity with emotional depth. The audience has never waned, and in fact grows as the band grows to find their true sound – inspired by their authenticity, introspection, and beautiful chords.

(Rickshaw Theatre)

The next show you can catch Dead Soft at will be May 9th, 2025 at the Rickshaw Theatre in Downtown Vancouver. This is a La Lune EP release show that they’ll be playing alongside with Woolworm and Hillsboro. Follow the links below to purchase your tickets!

Find out more about Dead Soft through the links below:

You can also find their music on Spotify and Bandcamp.

Purchase tickets to their upcoming Rickshaw Theatre show here.

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

I’m under your Rebel Spell.

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(The Rebel Spell)

The Rebel Spell is a punk band from Vancouver, BC. Active from 2002 to 2014. They came together in 2002 in East Vancouver, passionate about community building and social change. Throughout their time together they toured Canada countless times, through the United States, and even Europe twice. They played over 500 shows in the 12 years that they were together. The final show being at our local Wise Hall & Lounge in Vancouver BC on New Years Eve, December 31st, 2014.

The group came together by their shared passion for punk music and activism. A tandem that goes hand-in-hand for the artistically inclined and politically charged. Not only is punk a safe space to take out ones frustrations with the way the world works, but also a space where change can be made. Minds can take spark by emotionally fuelled lyrics, and internal synapses could be changed forever with the mere line of your favourite punk band.

(The Rebel Spell)

Their first album ‘Expression in Laymen’s Terms’ was released in 2003. This was filled with DIY ethos and emotive lyrics and tunes.

As stated on their webpage, “We hand cut and glued cases for the first 500 CDs. Chris Rebel did the artwork and change it over subsequent pressings. Later on our friends from Seattle released it on vinyl on Out of Tune Records.”

The band later went on to create album ‘Days of Rage’ in 2005. This is a fiery, politically charged album that channels their beyond-frustration with systemic injustice, environmental destruction, and societal complacency. It reflects the band’s strong anarcho-punk ethos and activism-centred worldview. Many of the songs in this album call to action against authoritarianism, capitalism, and war.

Their next album ‘It’s A Beautiful Future’ brought in many guest musicians. Kytami played the violin on one track, Troi Poison sung in another, and Nate Cunnings played keys. This album wasn’t created as a prediction, but instead a challenge for it’s listeners to fight for a better world.

(The Rebel Spell / Facebook)

The group consisted of Todd Serious (aka Todd Jenkins), the charismatic frontman on lead vocals. Wretchederin, guitar and founding member. Chris Rebel on bass, while he played a significant role in shaping the band’s early music, he left the band in 2009 – after which Troi Poison and Evan Catalano filled in on bass. Then Stepha on drums, the band’s original drummer who also shared vocals on tracks like ‘All This Costs’ on their final album.

With a heavy heart and shortly after their final show in 2014, frontman and lead vocalist Todd Serious passed away. On March 7, 2015 Todd died in a rock climbing accident in Black Velvet Canyon near Las Vegas. His death rocked the group and shook them and the adoring community to their core.

“Todd had a profound and lasting impact on all of our lives. We will never forget him, and his spirit lives on in our music.” – The Rebel Spell webpage.

(The Rebel Spell / Facebook)

My favourite song by the band has to be ‘I am a Rifle’, it contains the anger and frustration felt across the nation about the impact of violence and colonialism. Take a listen below:

Find out more about The Rebel Spell through the links below:

therebelspell.com 

You can also find their music on Bandcamp and Spotify.

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

Green Auto: Vancouver’s hidden gem for live music

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(Side Door Access)

As we all know the art scene in Vancouver is forever in a flux battling with low funding and ever-closing venues. While the city has lost great venues like the Railway Club and Cafe Deux Soleils, here is one newish club that is making waves in all the right ways.

Green Auto is an authentic, artist-driven venue tucked away in East Vancouver at 1822 Pandora Street. This is an intimate music venue that hosts a multitude of up-and-coming bands from around Vancouver. While the venue itself is small, you wouldn’t be able to tell by the booming music that comes forth. This is a place to not forget your concert ear plugs because the sound seems to reverb off the walls, through the floors, and deep into your ear canal. As stated in the Side Door article, “[Green Auto] is a space built by artists, for artists, with a mission to amplify voices and foster inclusivity in the local music scene.”

(Runner The Band)

My initiation to Green Auto was during our second fundraiser for No Apologies Necessary, the all-Canadian Co-op Radio Show that I’ve cohosted for the past four years. Green Auto did not disappoint in their support for the local music scene. They offered us the venue, staff for the front and the bar, and our payment to them would be in paying these employees and offering the venue a portion of our fundraising sales. This was magical and something I thought we’d never achieve with our cache of musicians behind us. But it happened! Our evening was monumental.

One of the venue’s standout features is the intimacy of the space. A single room where the sound could bounce of every node. A lounge space on your way outside. Then the thriving outdoor space in the undercover of a garage where the community intermixes and draws together. During our fundraiser we were even allowed to bring a bbq to add to the jovial nature of patrons outside. While it’s entrance is a hop-skip-and-a-jump through a darkly lit alley, once you’re through the gates you know that’s where you’re supposed to be.

This summer poses to be another jam-packed music filled season for the venue. On Thursday, April 24th, 2025 the incredibly band ?NUMB?DAME? hits the stage with bands Blindspot and Slowcide. Coming up on May 2nd, 2025 there is a line up of Devours, In Mirrors, Deadcells, and La Lune. Not convinced yet? Then come back on May 31st, 2025 where Doom Cocoon will be performing alongside Never Plenty, and Bitter Washed. The shows are never ending and the list of bands performing will not only excite the nerves but offer you up a band you might never have experienced otherwise. Tickets range from $15-20. There is ample parking in the area and just a brush off major bus routes. If you haven’t tried your hand at Green Auto, this summer is the time for you to pick up your britches and try it for the first time. I’ve never been disappointed by my Green Auto experiences.

(Bandsintown)

Find out more about Green Auto and upcoming shows through the links below:

Upcoming Shows!

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

A circus fever called Blackberry Wood

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(Blackberry Wood)

I stood outside a venue at Ignite The Arts Festival, taking a break and some fresh air and talking to some of the other party going patrons outside.

Suddenly a car pulls up and what looks like it’ll fit four passengers… out pops eight! AND their instruments. They are all dressed in matching red circus attire that sparkles and bounces with added tutus and sequins. It is like one of those classic circus clown cars that could logically fit one person… but out pops a whole family! The crowd was buzzing before the performers even hit the stage. Something about synchronized colourful outfits and the promise of what they entail. Steampunk, gypsy punk, Dixieland jazz and electro-swing. How do I even pinpoint a taste of what they are??

This is Blackberry Wood. Part carnival, part jazz, part crazy wild fever dream. They had rolled in and they were about to create some noise. Lead vocalist and ringmaster Kris Wood starts the festivities bright and cheerful and ready for debauchery. He dons the classic top hat and moustache you’d find on your circus ring-leader, and a raspy voice that gets everyone off their derrières and dancing like the devil took over.

(Blackberry Wood)

When I came inside to see their performance they were bouncing between a circus on stage, then marching in a circle around the audience, then hopping up on chairs with their saxophones, large bass drum, accordion, and enthusiastic happiness. Because you see during Blackberry Wood, chairs aren’t for sitting. They are for dancing on, getting as big and loud as you can!

Their music is described as New Orleans brass, Eastern European folk, and good old rock n’ roll with a big splash of mischief. While this first time I saw them they only carried a cohort of other musicians, they are known to share the stage with performers and acrobats. It’s not just their music or their glittery attire that ease the crowd down to crazy town, its something about their vibe. The air of glee and joy they bring to the stage before, during, and after their performance is something I’d only thought exists inside a fairytale. Somehow the floor seemed to get looser and my feet started moving faster. You wouldn’t second guess their fans coming in wearing their best glitter, feathers, polka-dotted skirts, and theatrical hats and walking sticks. Everyone comes dressed the part because we are about to be transported to another realm.

When the music plays its like someone unplugged the breach that keeps debauchery on the outside, and now mass chaos and mischief filled the room. There’s no escaping it, might as well dive in. While the band is a collective that absorbs and releases members as it travels around the world, these members have stayed true in their role to the band. Kris Mitchell, lead vocals, guitar, and kazoo. Anessa Marie on saxophone and vocals, and Jack Blaue on drums and percussion. Over the years musicians have come and gone with a list too long to display. They bring in unique sounds to the band including horns, accordion, fiddles, and more.

(Blackberry Wood)

Blackberry Wood is a international travelling band. Having performed on major stages like the Glastonbury Festival in the UK as well as The Frog & Fiddle in Cheltenham, England. Here in British Columbia they are sought-after returning performers to many of the folk festivals around the province, including where I saw them at Ignite The Arts Festival. They have also played at The Cobalt, Rickshaw Theatre, The Imperial in North Vancouver, Music on the Wharf in Maple Ridge, and endless others, too many to record.

Blackberry Wood also graced us at our No Apologies Necessary Fundraiser at Green Auto. While the line-up for this fundraiser was extensive and crossed out of our designated time at Green Auto – Blackberry Wood came on last as our final debaucherous boom of a good time. While the audience members had waned into sleepiness, this didn’t stop Blackberry Wood from performing as they always do. Big and loud and there for a good time. It didn’t matter to this band who was in the crowd and what the energy levels were – they came in banging and got every single person spinning around the room, locking arms, and diving headfirst into the fever dream that is Blackberry Wood.

For more information on Blackberry Wood click the links below:

blackberrywoodmusic.com

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca

NMA – Not much asparagus?

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(Unreal City)

My friend was telling me about their band. A “shoe-gaze” band from Vancouver, BC. As I sometimes don’t keep up with the trending hipster genres, I asked “shoe-gaze?” I knew it literally. I’ve always liked etymology. Especially slang or ye olde colloquial sayings. So “shoe-gaze” – I understood the demure of the word. But the shoe-gaze genre? I was into it. I wanted to know more.

NMA is now based in Vancouver, BC. The band name existed in another country to another group of musicians before the lead singer Tom, moved from the UK to Canada.

The band when I met them consisted of Tom, the lead singer. James, the bass guitar (and phenomenal podcaster of the Once More With Feeling). Luke, guitarist and leading this band with experimental riffs, as he’s done across bands in his history. And Juraj, the drummer, my friend.

I guess he’s ok.

When I heard the meaning of NMA I took part in the band’s extended family’s calculated and must-pass-our-teasing jest.

“Nothing Means Anything.” I laughed at the start in how this encapsulated East Van’s hipster persona. I said as much to the extended family and acquaintance nearby that I hadn’t introduced myself to yet. Oh hi. This was the band’s new bassist. In fact he was an NMA og from across the pond.

Needless to say I ate my words.

The amount of times I’ve thought about it since and checked my hater-being-cool stance… is more than I can count on one hand.

Nothing does Mean Anything.

Unless you’re talking about consent. Because then Nothing means No.

But ask my psychedelics physics brain… and yes… in fact nothing can mean anything.

Getting godly on you all.

NMA began as a solo music project of band leader Tom Levitt. It is a mixture of alt rock, shoe gaze, and grunge. With introspective lyrics and creative instrumentals it brings together a mix of crowds, ready to dance, bob their heads, or even start a mosh-pit. They have performed at classic Vancouver venues like Green Auto, The Cobalt, The Pearl, and The Biltmore Cabaret. Each time sharing the roster with a mix of musicians from hard rock to progressive metal.

One of the last times I saw NMA perform was at The Biltmore Cabaret. I was there standing in the back, taking photos and videos as I do, enjoying the crowd. Then a group of kids dons the floor and something miraculous began in front of me. A friendly shoulder shove here…. A playful body check there…. A mosh-pit was beginning in front of me. But watching it play out in almost a gentle fashion, these friends nudging the other to see if they were ready to get plummeted with elbows … was beautiful.

I’d later go up to the group and tell them how much I enjoyed seeing them mosh. “You should’ve joined us!!” They told me. Not yet, and especially not that night, I wasn’t dancing that night. But their entire process had me filled with joy.

Unfortunately NMA’s time in Vancouver has come to an end as their lead singer must return to our UK brethren. The band tells me they will be recording one last EP before the lead singer’s departure. So although we might not see the likes of this specific band in Vancouver for some time, we can rest assured that their music is living on, evolving, growing, and continuing to gaze at their shoes.

Find out more about NMA on Bandcamp and through the link below:

Written by Volante Matheson, Radio Arts & Entertainment at BCIT

Contact: vmatheson1@my.bcit.ca