Land of the Free?

By Вen Li

A strange thing happened this week. In something resembling a Mexican kangaroo court, “American Taliban” John Walker Lindh plea-bargained ten charges of being really, really evil down to two charges of being just evil. Apparently, convicting him on charges of illegally providing aid to the Taliban and carrying explosives “proves the criminal justice system can… Continue reading Land of the Free?

Peeking behind the curtains of the G8

By James Keller

In the weeks leading up to the 2002 G8 Summit, I read headlines in Calgary dailies using words like “terrorism” and “havoc” to describe what Calgarians should expect. Photos of police in riot gear, anti-aircraft weaponry and boarded-up businesses graced front pages, and everyone, including the mayor, seemed to be preparing the city for chaos.I… Continue reading Peeking behind the curtains of the G8

Stompin’ Tom, An Ode for the Road

By Вen Li

“Stereotypical Canadian folk/country adversity music” doesn’t adequately describe this relatively undistinguished album. What differentiates Ode from other recent Eastern-Canadian whiner-artist fare is it’s lack of suckage.Ode is a testament to how a combination of well-tested musical styles and a modicum of skill can equal success. Instead of being completely innovative or unoriginal, Stompin’ Tom just… Continue reading Stompin’ Tom, An Ode for the Road

Rush, Vapor Trails

By Ken Clarke

“If you hated them before, you’ll really hate them now!” Or so reads the slogan from a promo for the first Rush album in six years.While this may or may not be accurate, it is true that Rush have modified their sound for their 16th release, Vapor Trails. The changes are not so radical as… Continue reading Rush, Vapor Trails

People Under the Stairs, Original Sound Track

By CH Smith

O.S.T. is the third album from the duo of ThesONE and Double K and uses the same formula that led them to two critically acclaimed albums. Their formula consists of jazzy soulful loops, and lyrics filled with three things essential to a good summer: beats, blunts and brews. Personal favourites would be the title track… Continue reading People Under the Stairs, Original Sound Track

Blackalicious, Blazing Arrow

By CH Smith

Blackalicious’ highly anticipated second full-length album Blazing Arrow is an instant classic, from the standout single “Make You Feel That Way,” to the highly original and creative “Chemical Calisthenics” featuring Cut Chemist. As was the case on their debut Nia, the duo of Chief Xcel and Gift of Gab flawlessly link innovative beats with brilliant… Continue reading Blackalicious, Blazing Arrow

Silverchair, Diorama

By Sara Grawbarger

Imagine anticipating the birth of a baby boy, but having a girl instead. You still fall in love with her because of who and what she is, but your expectations are certainly blown away.Silverchair’s new album, Diorama, will likely cause a similar reaction for many.The album, co-produced by Daniel Johns, is more melodic than previous… Continue reading Silverchair, Diorama