I’m an admitted hardcore lover of music; but, I would rather support and listen to a band or artist who is making music and getting noticed, because their music actually holds something of substance. I would rather listen to something that isn’t being crammed down my throat by a record company desperate to have a #1 selling band; never mind that the band puts out what seems like the same song over and over again. If a band or artist makes music that can stand up on its own merit; there should be no need to force feed it to people and “make” them like it. I suppose that is why I can’t stand bands such as Nickelback, Daughtry, and Billy Talent for example; I feel like I am being told that I should like these bands because of who they are, and not necessarily because they put out original or un-generic music. I am not going to bash you if you like any of the bands I have mentioned as examples, everyone has a right to like what they like; but I personally want more in content, and less in oversaturation.

 

If you want to expand your musical horizons there are many great sources to discover “new to you” music. Myspace may be waning a bit next to Facebook when it comes to being a socializing network; but, it is still an excellent way to discover new bands… just about anybody who is anybody in a band has a Myspace page… so the possibilities are endless there. Publications such as Rolling Stone magazine have great coverage and reviews on indie bands as well; I know, you are thinking “a corporate magazine mentioning indie music”, but Rolling Stone has been covering all types of music since 1967... So, they must be onto something. You can also look in your very own backyard (I am referring to city here) for new bands and artists to become a favourite. Peterborough has always had a thriving local music scene, with someone always playing somewhere in the city; take a look at the concert announcements on the poles downtown… or check out some of the local marquees for what’s coming up. Establishments such as the Moho (Montreal House) and the Historic Red Dog on Hunter have great line ups every week; drop by and check out some of the bands playing, and soak up some of the history and atmosphere of these great rooms. There are many more great establishments in the downtown core to find live music as well; unfortunately I don’t have enough room here to mention all of them and point out their glowing accolades… but a stroll in either direction along George Street will find you on the doorsteps of any and all of these wonderful rooms.

 

I am not actually bashing the music industry here, or the huge bands you can find everywhere these days; after all, I work in an industry that depends on and supports both of those things… I am just pointing out that there is a lot of exciting and largely unheard of music out there to discover. Don’t just settle for what is in front of you and the most accessible; in the process you might be missing out on something wonderful.

 

I am always open to checking out something “new”; so if there is a band or artist you know of, that you really dig… pass it along to me… I would love the recommendations. scott@thewolf.ca

 

 

Until next time…