RSS
Netflix Apology, Indigenous Education Funding, Beothuk Remains
Hosted by Ahmad Moujtahed
Stories by Luca Caruso-Moro, Ahmad Moujtahed
________________________________________________________________
LOCAL
Netflix is apologizing for using footage of the Lac Mégantic train crash that killed 47 people in 2013.
Video of the disaster was also used in the TV show Travellers.
NATIONAL
Ottawa is reworking the way it funds education for Indigenous children.
For years, the government has been criticized for not providing funding for Indigenous education comparable to provincial school boards.
In April, nearly $2 billion will be managed by chiefs and band councils across the country.
The feds say they are working to make education more traditionally focused.
INTERNATIONAL
In the mid 1820’s, the remains of two Beothuk people were taken out of the ground at Red Indian Lake in Newfoundland and brought to Edinburgh.
The Beothuk are a now extinct community of Indigenous people.
Indigenous and provincial leaders have been calling for the return for years.
A$AP Rocky At Place Bell, Jan 13 2019
Photo: Kaya Martin
A$AP Rocky’s “Injured Generation” tour took to Place Bell on Sunday night to treat fans to a stadium show based on his 2018 album TESTING.
A$AP Rocky is the most popular member of Harlem rap collective A$AP Mob that began to gain popularity in 2011 after the release of his debut single “Peso” and his Live. Love. A$AP. mixtape. The rapper has since gone on to become a fashion icon in the music industry, and has also been featured in several movies.
Rocky’s show started when his hype men, wearing one piece lab coats and disturbing face masks, asked that the crowd follow their every command, whether this be to smile, frown, or laugh. The stage décor focused heavily on caution tape, black and yellow safety hazard signs and testing cars: a theme that Rocky encompassed for his newest album. As “A$AP Forever” began to play to the crowd, the New York rapper ran onstage and began rapping. He was dressed in a red jumpsuit topped with a yellow vest, complemented by Bred Retro Air Jordan 1s and a face mask that can only be described as a crash test dummy mask that could have been made by Hannibal Lecter himself.
Shortly after rapping to various of his newest songs, Rocky requested silence from the crowd and paid homage to his late friend and fellow Mob member, A$AP Yams. He dedicated his next song to him. When “Yamborghini High” wrapped up, Rocky left for a wardrobe change while his unreleased song, “Babushka,” played for fans while they eagerly waited for his return.
As “Gunz N Butter” began playing and the curtain dropped, Rocky performed over 30 feet in the air on top of a floating car. The cars were covered with fashion brand stickers such as Gucci and VLONE while also being covered in crude graffiti. The artist showed no signs of uneasiness while overlooking the crowd, and continued to dance and rap while maintaining his swagger. As he made his way down from the car and onto centre stage, Rocky used a soundboard to introduce his next song, “Distorted Records.” With a camera on top of the board that projected onto the screen with special effects, the artist’s DJing looked more like a video game than a mixer. From there, he continued to play “Fukk Sleep” and “Tony Tone,” interrupted only briefly to do 10 push-ups at the instruction of the female voiceover that narrated the night.
When the stadium went dark, an old school anti-drug commercial ran on the screens. Those in attendance chanted for Rocky who reappeared in the middle of the smiley face stage. He laid on the floor, as his red jumpsuit contrasted the yellow background, and sang “LSD”: his hit single from At. Long. Last. A$AP. However, the crowd’s energy was at its highest when Rocky asked if he could get into some of his wilder songs. At his request, a massive mosh pit opened up and exploded to the first chord of Rocky’s Skrillex collaboration “Wild for the Night”, making any fan who had bought seat tickets wish they were on the floor for such an occasion.
When Rocky finished playing three songs in which he was featured on, he sent the crowd into another frenzy with his track “F**kin’ Problems.” Finally, the rapper left the final song choice up to the crowd. When their cheers indicated that “Lord Pretty Flacko Jodye 2” was the one they wished to hear, Rocky played one final song for his fans and apologized for having taken so long to come back to Montreal. He thanked the crowd for their beautiful energy and bid them farewell – until next time.
Ensiferum at Théâtre Corona, Jan 9 2019
Truth be told, I hadn’t delved into Ensiferum’s music before summer 2017 when I caught them at Montebello Rockfest. I was, however, turned into an instant fan when their pulsating anthems roared into my unsuspecting ears. Really, what I learned that day was the strength of Ensiferum’s music, and their most recent visit to Montreal’s Corona Theatre (all the way from Finland no less) further confirmed it. You don’t need to be an Ensiferum fan to enjoy their show. The melodic nature of their songwriting is enough to sing along to just about any of their songs, while being fast and aggressive at the same time. The dash of folk music (which really can be summed up to the use of accordions, among other unusual instruments) adds to the feel-good vibe. Going to an Ensiferum concert is like enjoying the banquet after your monthly Viking raid, with drinking, chanting, moshing and quite a lot of dancing. I was only disappointed by the pre-recorded accordion and keyboards, accordion player Netta Skog having quit early last year.
There were not too many surprises in the setlist. Despite their lackluster reception, Ensiferum played a fair bit off of their last two records, Two Paths and One Man Army, which translated pretty well in a live setting. They gave an energetic performance and created an enthusiastic crowd with songs like “For Those About to Fight for Metal”, “Way of the Warrior” and the strange “Two of Spades”, which provided a cool change of pace with its disco flair. Ultimately, it was very clear that most of the crowd was eager to hear their favourites of olde, such as the ever so classic “Iron”, “Guardians of Fate” and my personal favourite “Wanderer”. One of Ensiferum’s many excellent epics would have been welcome, but, in the end, each of their records was represented.
Supporting act Septicflesh provided a much different vibe, focusing on dissonant riffs and bolstered by frontman Seth Siro Anton's powerful commands. I cannot overstate how exciting their set was due to his battle cries. The orchestral-laden songs helped guide us through otherwise incredibly brutal death metal, making each moment feel like a scene from 300 with the armour-clad Greek warriors towering over the crowd. Along with an intricate light-show, their set was a sight to behold, smoke and light patterns abound. I would not miss them next time they came around.
Along with the Finns and Greeks came Sweden’s Arsis, a straight forward death-thrash band. Although definitely less flashy than what came after them, a strong dose of energy kicked the show into gear. They provided a great contrast to our local boys in The Unconscious Mind, who played a set of new songs to a large early-bird crowd.
Concerts like these are more than worth the price of admission. Don’t miss Ensiferum or Sepcticflesh next time they’re in town for a good time, and watch out for new material from Arsis and The Unconcsious Mind on the horizon. Horns up!
Women's March in MTL, Lawsuit to stop open-net salmon farming in BC, Baby formula bandits caught.
LOCAL
The freezing cold and the snow did not deter protesters from participating in the third annual Women’s March on Saturday.
The march in Montreal was one of the many marches that took place around the world in solidarity with the thousands who marched towards the White House in Washington, D.C.
CBC reports, since its inception in 2017, the march has become an annual event where women come together to highlight issues of misogyny, transphobia and racism.
NATIONAL
The federal government is facing a lawsuit from B.C’s First Nation community to stop open-net salmon farming on their lands.
According to APTN news, The Dzawada’enuxw (za-wah-day-nook) First Nation of Kingcome wants Canada to remove 10 salmon farms from their traditional waters located in the Broughton Archipelago northeast of Vancouver Island. The claim argues that the federal government authorized fish farm licenses without their consultation or consent.
The DFN has had a no open-net fish farms policy for 30 years and have been actively protesting against the government for the past three years.
The Dzawada’enuxw community is also against the open-net farms because of the risk they pose to the already low salmon stocks.
INTERNATIONAL
It seems Australian baby formulas are a hot-ticket item in China these days.
According to BBC, Australian police confirmed they had busted members of an “expansive” criminal gang which specialized in stealing baby formula for illegal sale in China.
The stolen goods are valued at more than 700, 000 thousand dollars.
Australian baby-formula nicknamed, “white-gold” for its healthier contents is so sought after in China, it sells for over $100 a tin.
Unfortunately, for the criminals, the case was brought to police’s attention due the baby-formula shortage the Australian public was experiencing.
EMSB Investigation, Ontario Health Overhaul, Death Penalty for Canadian
Hosted by Alexandre Denis
Stories by Luca Caruso-Moro and Alexandre Denis
________________________________________________________________
LOCAL
The province is investigating the English Montreal School Board over alleged ethics violations and financial mismanagement.
According to Education Minister Jean-Francois Roberge these allegations have been reported for years.
The investigation has started despite the CAQ’s vow to abolish school boards to increase school’s autonomy.
NATIONAL
The Ontario Premier Doug Ford is likely to overhaul the province’s health care governing bodies, according to a CBC investigation.
Currently, health care funding is managed by 14 health care coordination networks. After the possible overhaul, the responsibility would fall to only 5.
Those in favour say the shift will make contact between hospitals and the public smoother.
INTERNATIONAL
That’s the sound of Canadian Robert Lloyd Schellenberg being sentenced to death live on a Chinese television broadcast this week.
Schallenberg was found guilty of drug smuggling.
Trudeau expressed concern toward what he considers an an arbitrary use of the death penalty.
Live Out Your Hunger Games Dreams at Dodgebow Archery
Do you miss those days when you walked into gym class and the teacher told you dodge ball was what you’d be playing? Have you ever watched The Hunger Games and all of a sudden wished you could shoot a bow and arrow like Katniss Everdeen? Ever thought of combining these two sports?
Well, think no more! Dodgebow Archery is just that. Located in Saint-Henri, Dodgebow lets you relive your childhood while letting you live out your inner The Hunger Games fantasies in a fun and safe environment. It is a perfect “Sunday Funday” activity for families as well as a great Saturday evening with friends. With the help of an animator, 24-36 people can play the following game modes: No Loyalty, Mandown, Zombies and Bullseye. All games are a work out and you’ll be running around, ducking, dodging and aiming for people and targets.
I had no idea what I was getting into. I didn’t read any of the descriptions or watch any videos of it. Even though I went into the activity blind, I had so much fun. It does take a few shots to get the hang of of it but after a few rounds, I was shooting like a pro. Grab your family members or a group of friends and book your time slot on their website, you’ll surely have plenty of fun and laughter.
The Internet at MTELUS, Dec 8 2018
The Hive Mind Tour by The Internet and Moonchild came through Montreal at MTELUS on Dec 8 2018 with a concert incomparable to any I have ever seen.
After attending the meet and greet, I watched as hundreds of fans gathered, gazing at three horns and two sets of keyboards on the stage in anticipation. Moonchild started off the night with a fun upbeat tempo tune “The List,” A track off their latest album entitled Voyager. Once Moonchild walked onto the stage, The neo-soul trio captivated the audience with the whimsical melodies of their flute clarinet and keys, then the jazzy hip hop in their beats, complimented by the sax and trumpet.
As always, Moonchild's energy was 100 per cent. The acoustics could have been better, but they still came through with that energy, leaving the audience mesmerized after every solo and musical peak. I must say I love lead singer Amber Navran’s spunky personality and funky dance moves on stage.
Considering that Moonchild is a multi-instrumentalist band, Voyager includes many instrumental ambient songs and euphoric performances. This really gave the audience a chance to just vibe, and enjoy songs like “6 AM.” Two days after releasing the track "Get to Know it,” Moonchild shared a bit about the meaning of the song, followed by a live premiere of the tune at MTELUS.
Finally, The Internet. Patrick, Steve, Matt, and Chris hop on their instruments, and the lights rise from the floor up to the balcony as “Come Together” grew from a silent hum, to a loud roar. Moments before her first verse, lead singer Syd hit the stage electrifying the crowd. I couldn’t wait to dance to some of my favourites like “La Di Da”, “Beat Goes On” and “Burbank Funk”.
Syd shared some insight as she mentioned her battle with depression as she sings “It Gets Better (with Time).”
After a night of singing, dancing, talking, laughing, and making new friends, we did not want the show to end. The crowd went crazy one final time, with a solid minute of screaming and clapping and roaring love.
As I was leaving, I saw Moonchild just standing, chilling and waiting to greet the audience as they left. I went over and before I could even say anything, Amber enthusiastically said “Hey I saw your cover of “The List” and I was feelin’ it so much!” She gave me a hug, and saved my album onto her phone. Certainly another highlight of the night. I forgot I had been speaking with celebrities. Both sets of band members were all just so humble and down to earth, genuinely here for the music.
Both bands are on hiatus for the moment. The Internet will be performing in South Africa for New Years eye, Thailand in February of 2019, and in April The Hive Mind Tour will reach Europe, sharing their good vibes and music with the world.
Aliah Guerra is a Singer/Songwriter and host of Concordia Music Zone Out on CJLO 1690AM
ALCOHOL-FREE BREWERY, PIPELINE PROTEST IN THE WEST, NEW HOME FOR SAUDI WOMAN.
Hosted by Erdene Batzorig
Stories by Erdene Batzorig
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LOCAL
What reason could a brewery have for going alcohol-free?
Employees at Aux Fous Brassant in Rivière-du-Loup are taking on a 28-day sobriety challenge in February to raise money for Fondation Jean Lapointe, an organization that supports substance abuse and addiction treatment in Quebec.
According to CBC, owner Éric Viens said that this initiative is also meant to encourage people who are sober all year round and those who act as designated drivers.
The brewery will be replacing the alcoholic beverages with other alternatives like kombucha, cider and cold-pressed coffee.
So do you think you can the 28-day sobriety challenge?
NATIONAL
On Saturday, hundreds of people gathered in downtown Vancouver to protest against the proposed pipeline to be built through northern B.C.
The protesters marched in support of Wet'suwet'en hereditary chief's opposition to the Coastal GasLink project to move natural gas from northeastern B.C. to the coast.
According to CBC, protesters also voiced their concern over the effect the pipeline extension will have on the environment, holding signs with messages such, “the climate is changing, why aren't we?"
Earlier in the week, multiple people were arrested at a checkpoint outside Smithers B.C. for protecting the Wet'suwet'en territories from pipeline workers and RCMP officers.
INTERNATIONAL
A Saudi women who pleaded for help on Twitter while fleeing from her family has been welcomed to Canada as a refugee.
According to National Post, Prime Minister J. Trudeau announced that the federal government was asked by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to allow Rahaf Mohammed Al-qunun to settle in Canada,
“That is something that we are pleased to do because Canada is a country that understands how important it is to stand up for human rights, to stand up for women’s rights around the world,”
Al-qunun launched a social media campaign after running away from her family to Bangkok. She barricaded herself in a hotel room, and wrote on Twitter, that she was afraid and that her family would kill her if she returned home.
Jorja Smith at MTELUS, Dec 18 2018
Photo: Louis Pavlakos
Performing at her sold out show on Tuesday December 19th at MTELUS, the lovely Jorja Smith blessed us with her amazing vocal range and an unforgettable tone.
Before walking into the concert, it was clear Smith has captured the hearts of a particularly trendy crowd. From long trench coats to hipster hats, the throng of young UK inspired fashionistas were serving looks all night. It was marvellous.
The stage decoration was a simple long red drape and accompanied by strong theatre lights scattered around. The concert focused on the music thus unaccompanied by any backup dancers, singers or any extra fla fla. The spotlight was on Smith and it made for a more intimate show for us to be a part of. The second she walked on stage, cellphones flew up and the crowd went wild. Everyone knew they were in the presence of a queen. She wore a short fitted dress with her signature hair in bun look. I could hear everyone whisper about how beautiful she was and it it’s true. She is a stunner!
The best part of the show was the talented band that accompanied her. It sounded exactly like the album Lost & Found, adding some soulful solos in between songs which blew us all away. Popular musicians aren’t always great live performers. Some concerts are filled with pitchy vocals and mistakes but Jorja Smith’s was the exact opposite. She didn’t sing one flat note. It is clear she has some kind of operatic vocal training because the girl can SING! While technically proficient, the concert lacked a storytelling element. It was clear that it was the end of her tour and she must have been exhausted. I would have loved to hear more about her songs and her story. I found myself wanting to connect more with her but couldn’t, due to the lack of exchange between herself and the audience. It seemed a little too rehearsed.
That being said if you are looking to spend the evening with your loved one while listening to beautifully sung love songs, this is the concert for you! Be ready for a swarm of fans singing along to every word of every song. She is clearly a sweet, shy and kind soul that has a gift and is learning how to share it. She was extremely thankful to her fans and wished us all a safe ride home. She clearly knows where she is going now. Wink wink, nudge nudge.
Deidra Chois is a Jazz Studies Vocalist, a former La Voix contestant, and host of Feels Radio on CJLO 1690AM
Saint-Laurent Emissions, Barricade Breakers, Thalidomide Survivors.
Hosted by Luca Caruso-Moro
Stories by Luca Caruso-Moro
________________________________________________________________
LOCAL
The Saint-Laurent borough is celebrating a steady decrease in greenhouse gas emissions.
A report revealed at this week’s council meeting showed a 21 per cent decrease in emissions in the since 1990, even though the region’s population has grown by about 30 thousand.
More compost collection, public transportation, and reduced commercial gas use are said to be the cause of the decrease.
Mayor Alan DeSousa hopes to slash another 9 per cent of emissions by 2020
ALAN DESOUSA: “We hear a lot of people say that they plan to do things. They talk about setting high objectives. But actually, when we look at the facts, it’s more important to do things.”
NATIONAL
The RCMP has broken down the barricade put up by the Unis’tot’en people.
The barricade was put up to prevent the Coastal Gaslink pipeline from being built through 190 kilometres of Wet'suwet'en territory, about 3 hours west of Prince George.
After the RCMP broke through, 14 people were arrested.
ANOTHER NATIONAL
Canada will increase compensation to survivors of thalidomide, a drug marketed to women in the sixties to treat morning sickness,
Children of mothers on thalidomide were born with disabilities such as underdeveloped limbs and deafness.
Under the new policy, survivors will receive 250 thousand dollars compensation and 1 million dollars yearly for medical expenses.
Pages
Staff Login | Advertise | Our Location | RSS | Contact Us
