May 20, 2011 Long weekend plans? May we suggest... Friday, May 20: Edmonton, AB - Wyrd Fest III at Dinwoodie Lounge Saturday, May 21: Calgary, AB - Wyrd Fest III at No. 1 Legion Edmonton, AB - Field and Stream with Swisher and the Sweets (incl. Outdoor Miners' Peter Sagar) at Wunderbar Sunday, May 22: Hinton, AB - Tim Gilbertson's homecoming show at the Woodcutter Lounge Vancouver, BC - Wyrd Fest III at Waldorf Hotel Wyrd details here. May 7, 2011 Tim Gilbertson hits Barrie tonight, and we've got details for a few of his upcoming shows: 1. Ottawa show (May 9) is at Zaphod's. 2. On May 10th, Tim shares the Rancho Relaxo stage with Wander Birds and You be the Anchor, for a show being hosted by the lovely Two Way Monologues. Tickets are only $5! 3. Next Friday, the band plays Cagibi in Montreal with Divingbell and Trips & Falls. Tickets are $6 in advance/$8 at the door. Show starts at 9pm. Aaaaannnndddd... 4. A Winnipeg show has been added! Be at the Royal Albert on May 16th! April 20, 2011 Another day, another new track from Tim Gilbertson et al. This time it's a cover of Neil Young's "Heart of Gold". Once again, it's a free download! April 19, 2011 In support of the upcoming tour, Tim Gilbertson et al. have recorded a new track, "In the Ice", which you can download for free here. Not content to just put out a new song, they made a video for it too! April 12, 2011 Tim Gilbertson is getting ready to hit the road and tour Canada once again. Get out and support him! More info coming soon. April 29 Edmonton, AB April 30 Saskatoon, SK May 1 Elfros, SK May 2 Yorkton, SK May 3 Moose Jaw, SK May 5 Thunder Bay, ON May 6 Cobalt, ON May 7 Barrie, ON May 9 Ottawa, ON May 10 Toronto, ON May 11 Quebec, QC May 13 Montreal, QC May 14 Sudbury, ON May 17 Regina, SK May 18 Moose Jaw, SK May 19 Lethbridge, AB May 22 Hinton, AB In other gig news, Peace is returning to Edmonton stages for a show at Wunderbar tomorrow night! April 1, 2011 We are very excited to announce that Peace is embarking on a tour in support of their new LP, My Face. Catch them soon here: April 2: Edmonton @ Pawn Shop with Brazilian Money, Sans AIDS, and Jessica Jalbert April 3: Saskatoon @ Cafe Sola with Feral Children April 5: Thunder Bay @ The Apollo April 8: Montreal @ somebody's recording studio/jamspace with Sean Nicholas Savage, Makeout Videotape, and Black Bull (Matt Perri) April 9: Ottawa @ somebody's basement April 10: Sudbury @ somebody's garage with Dany Laj and The Subterraneans April 14: Calgary @ a house party with Stalwart Sons, Cousins, and Duzheknew More dates to come! Also, Peace is on bandcamp. And here's a nice review of the album. February 24, 2011 Two of our favorite websites Weird Canada and Herohill have made the CBC3 Searchlight Top 20. Vote one of them here February 22, 2011 This Friday catch Tim Gilbertson opening for Sister Gray at the Pawn Shop in Edmonton. February 14, 2011 We are delighted to announce another new addition to the Pop Echo roster. Peace, a Vancouver-based quartet with roots in the City of Champions, combines the twitchy post-punk of the Fall and The Modern Lovers with singer/guitarist Dan Geddes’s abstract lyrics delivered with a bone-dry drawl. Look for My Face, the full-length, vinyl-exclusive debut by Peace on March 22nd from Pop Echo Records. In the meantime, check out Peace on MySpace and watch this space for updates on live dates and other news. Download the first single "The Dark" HERE Peace is: Lt. Frank Dickens - Guitar/Vocals Michael Willock - Guitar Connor Mayer - Bass Geoff Dembicki - Drums My Face was recorded in May of 2010 at The Noise Floor by Jordan Koop and mastered at The Hive by Stuart Mckillop. January 12, 2011 Blogtrot is featuring Tim Gilbertson as their New Music Monday artist. December 22, 2010 Merry Christmas from Pop Echo Records. For a limited time download a special Pop Echo Records sampler. One track from each of 2010 releases. GOBBLE GOBBLE - Becoming Legion Tim Gilbertson - Chipped Teeth Outdoor Miners - Disgust Sans AIDS - Got Ideas Fist City - Queen Of The Slugs heat-ray - Shadow Boys You can download the zipped file HERE (right click, save link as) December 14, 2010 Another one bites the dust. heat-ray are breaking up. After two short years, two Pop Echo releases the band has decided to call it quits. They will be playing their last show December 22 at The Republik in Calgary. This is the Beatroute Christmas party so it will be a shaker, don't miss out. December 4, 2010 Beatroute Magazine has posted their year end best of Alberta roundup. We are happy to see Outdoor Miners and heat-ray both made the cut. November 18, 2010 How's your Norwegian? Check out another Outdoor Miners review at Birds sometimes dance November 10, 2010 Beatroute Magazine has just launched their awesome new feature Single File. Check out the great review of Outdoor Miners "Disgust" 7". October 14, 2010 Start saving your pennies. 99 sevens is hitting the road. The next instalment of the series will take place in Halifax, NS. More details coming soon... October 7, 2010 One of Canada's best music blogs Herohill just posted a great review of Outdoor Miners "Disgust" 7". If you're in Hinton this weekend or just looking for a long weekend road trip, don't miss Tim Gilbertson's 3rd Annual Thanksgiving extravaganza w/ Monoceros at the Woodcutter Lounge. Tim is promising some BIG surprises. September 29, 2010 This Saturday heat-ray at the Palomino in Calgary Outdoor Miners quickie revue at Earmilk If you're at Pop Montreal this weekend make sure to check out Peace September 27, 2010 Elizabeth has put up a brand-new track called "Death to Plato" on their Myspace page. Check it out here! While we're on the topic of new stuff, Tim Gilbertson has a new video! It's for the track "Sinners" and you can check it out here! September 20, 2010 Outdoor Miners review at The Finest Kiss. There are only a few copies of "Twelve Hundred Dollars" left, grab one on the merch page before it's too late. September 13, 2010 This Friday heat-ray live at The Slice in Lethbridge with our good friends Fist City. September 5, 2010 Check out the trailer for the snowboard film "Frames", featuring Tim Gilbertson's "You're Out There" A great review of Outdoor Miners "Disgust" at Fire Escape Talking. August 27, 2010 Outdoor Miners four star review in this weeks Vue Weekly heat-ray free show this Saturday at Olympic Plaza in Calgary. They are on at 9pm, so get there early. August 20, 2010 Palisades up to number six on the CBC Radio 3 charts! Tim Gilbertson live this Tuesday at The Hydeaway in Edmonton. August 13, 2010 Tim Gilbertson's Palisades has cracked the top 10 on the CBC Radio 3 charts. Arcade Fire look out! August 5, 2010 It's the equivalent of a three star Michelin rating. Weird Canada has given Outdoor Miners sophomore single Disgust the much sought after "GRIP(to infinity)". Yet another great review of "Disgust" at Music2Ten July 25, 2010 Pop Echo Records & Weird Canada present 99 Sevens Vol. III: Gobble Gobble Pop Echo Records and Weird Canada invite you to the third installment of their 99 Sevens 7" series. For our triennial exploration into commodity fetishism, we've invited Alberta's most hyperbolic neon firing range to divest their emotional energy into a beautifully packaged Glow in the dark chunk of polyvinyl limited to 99 smaller chunks available to the first 99 customers through the door. That's right, Gobble Gobble is our guest and we couldn't be more excited! First 99 paid will receive a limited edition, Glow in the dark, numbered Gobble Gobble 7". There will only be 99 copies pressed and they will only be available at the show. Get there early, first person in line gets record #01. Once they’re gone, they’re gone! As this show lands on a Sunday we'll be starting and ending early! Date: Sunday August 1st, 2010 Time: Doors @ 7pm, Bands start at 8pm Location: The ARTery (9535 Jasper Avenue) Price: $10 (first 99 receive a 7") July 6, 2010 Today marks the release day of Outdoor Miners sophomore 7", Disgust. Get it now! For those of you in Toronto and Montréal, catch them at these gigs! 8 Jul 2010 Toronto, ON - Duffy's Tavern 14 Jul 2010 Montréal, PQ - The Playhouse June 25, 2010 Sled Island Festival is here. Pop Echo will down south for the weekend. We`ll see you Saturday afternoon at Tubby Dog for the Weird Canada showcase. Saturday night we`ll be at Broken City for Outdoor Miners showcase show. Party on, dudes. Also this weekend heat-ray will be up in Edmonton celebrating the release of the new Never Forever 7". Catch them at Brixx Bar and Grill with the fantastic Cockatoo. June 17, 2010 heat-ray's brand new 7" (bright blue!), Never Forever, is available now! Check out our merch page, visit a store near you, or just buy the tracks on iTunes! June 12, 2010 If you're looking for something to do this weekend, we've got you covered! On Thursday, heat-ray will be playing at Republik in Calgary is support of "Never Forever", their new bright blue 7"! On Friday, you can catch Tim Gilbertson at Haven in Edmonton, on the tail-end of his national tour behind "Palisades", his sophomore release. Doors are actually at 8pm. On the other side of town, Pop Echo alumni The Whitsundays are playing The Pawn Shop with Wool are Wolves and Sans AIDS. If you just can't decide who to go see on Friday, make the trek out to The Woodcutter in Hinton on Saturday (Tim's hometown) to see Tim AND The Whitsundays! Tim's even giving away his brand-new CD with admission! May 25, 2010 Hey, Calgary Outdoor Miners live at Tubby Dog this Saturday. Outdoor Miners, "Disgust" limited edition 7" out June 29th. May 14, 2010 Tim Gilbertson, Palisades 2010 Spring Tour May 16 Kamloops, BC - The Dirty Jersey May 20 Vancouver, BC - Pat's Pub w/ Elizabeth May 22 Calgary, AB - The Palomino May 27 Ottawa, ON - The Cajun Attic May 28 Toronto, ON - The Boat May 29 Hamilton, ON - This Ain't Hollywood May 30 Streetsville, ON - Marcello's June 1 Kitchener-Waterloo, ON - Outdoor Festival June 2 Kitchener-Waterloo, ON - Maxwell's June 3 Kingston, ON - The Mansio June 7 Montreal, PQ - L'Escogriffe June 10 Moncton, NB - The Paramount June 11 Fredericton, NB - The Capital Complex June 12 Barrie, ON - The Foxx June 14 Thunder Bay, ON - Black Pirate's Pub June 17 Saskatoon, SK - Amigo's Cantina June 18 Edmonton, AB - The Haven Social Club June 19 Hinton, AB - The Woodcutter May 11, 2010 Tim Gilbertson's amazing new album Palisades is available in finer record stores and on the merch page today. Available on iTunes, Emusic, ect June 1st. Tim is getting set to tour the nation next week. You can find a complete list of tour dates at timgilbertsonmusic.com. Check out a few early album reviews at Hero Hill and The Indie Files Last but not least the video for "Chipped Teeth" May 8, 2010 This Tuesday heat-ray The Marquee Room opening for Elias and Civil Twilight. This is a early show (8pm) so no "I have to work tomorrow" excuses. April 28, 2010 It's Royal Bison time again. Pop Echo will be at the art and craft fair Saturday and Sunday. Join us after the fair at Wryd Fest the official Royal Bison afterparty. This will be the second instalment of the 99 sevens series. Featuring a limited edition Fist City 7" April 18, 2010 heat-ray at Local 522 in Calgary this Saturday night April 9, 2010 Outdoor Miners have just finished recording three new tracks with Nik Kozub. Look for them on another limited edition 7" in June. All three members of the band take a turn on vocals. Wait until you hear Sean's punk snear on the amazing track "Bent Brain", Awesome! April 1, 2010 BREAKING NEWS! We just confrimed the November 99 Sevens show, It'll be a big one! Neil Young will be offering 2 tracks from his "weird" 1982 album Trans for the 7". He will also be playing the album in it's entirety as well as a selection of favorites. Venue and ticket information coming soon. March 23, 2010 Weird Canada and Pop Echo Records present the debut 99 Sevens party. Friday, April 16th, featuring: Sans AIDS Brazilian Money & special guests First 99 paid will receive a limited edition, numbered Sans AIDS 7". There will only be 99 copies pressed and they will only be available at the show. Get there early, first person in line gets record #01. Once they’re gone, they’re gone! Cover $10 March 15, 2010 Elizabeth have posted some demo's from their upcoming album. Check them out here. Check out Elizabeth live and in person, March 26th at Funky Winker Beans in Vancouver March 7, 2010 heat-ray have just returned from the studio. The band recorded three news songs two of which will be released as a limited edition 7" in June. Catch heat-ray live March 11th at Broken City in Calgary. March 3, 2010 Start lining up now! Edmonton’s Pop Echo Records is teaming up with national fringe-music enthusiasts Weird Canada for an exciting new project that will give local vinyl heads a fix. Pop Echo and Weird Canada have united to press a series of super-limited edition 7-inch records exclusive to shows. There will be only 99 copies available of each record available. The formula is simple: the first 99 people at these special shows get a 7" as part of their admission price. And once they're gone, they're gone! The idea is to give up-and-coming bands some exposure and give people a little extra incentive to get out and support live music. It also gives Pop Echo a chance to work with Weird Canada’s Aaron Levin, who’s been a fantastic champion for local and Canadian music through his weirdcanada.com website, as well as last year’s Wyrd Fest. The commemorative release/show in the Pop Echo/Weird Canada Seven Inch Series by Sans Aids (Peter Sagar of Outdoor Miners) will drop in spring, followed closely by a Wyrd Fest edition from Lethbridge rockers Fist City, then Edmonton up-and-comers Brazilian Money. More info to come!! February 21, 2010 Outdoor Miners t-shirts are now available on the merch page! February 20, 2010 Outdoor Miners update: They have two Edmonton shows this week, Wednesday at The Likwid Lounge and Saturday at The Artery. We suggest you attend both. The 7" in now available in Japan courtesy Apple Crumble Records. 7" review at indiefy.co.uk February 12, 2010 Elizabeth have been busy. The boys are hard at work on the follow up to "First Excommunications". They wowed the audience opening for The Cribs with "a seamless display of music in its purest form". They just posted a a new video for Diminishing Returns. February 2, 2010 We recently sat down with Alberta Venture magazine to discuss of the future of the music industry and Pop Echo's return to our 7" roots. Read it here January 28, 2010 The Vertical Struts S/T album has been named one of the top 50 albums of the decade by the good folks at Victor Franko Died For Your Sins. January 25, 2010 Elizabeth are opening for The Cribs (Johhny Marr!!!) this Sunday at The Venue in Vancouver January 20, 2010 heat-ray review at: I (heart) Music Outdoor Miners reviews at: Fire Escape Talking The Needle Drop The Finest Kiss January 8, 2010 heat-ray are making a music video at the Republik in Calgary on Thursday, January 14th. Cameras start rolling at 11pm. Get there early for a spot up front. Maybe you could be the next Courtney Cox December 24, 2009 Happy Holidays! A big THANKS! to everyone who came out to our 5th anniversary party. The night was a huge success. Read all about the first five years here More end of the year list rolling out this week. Both heat-ray and Outdoor Miners made Beatroute's "choice cuts" year end round up. Check out some more here : heat-ray at I Hate All Your Favorite Bands Outdoor Miners at endlessnameless One of our Canada's best music sites (and a Pop Echo favorite) Hero Hill has a bunch of Outdoor Miners stuff. The 7" review, favorites of '09, and exclusive unreleased track!. Finally Outdoor Miners 7" review at Exclaim! That's it for 2009, stay tuned for a epic 2010. December 12, 2009 Pop Echo survives to turn five! It's been five years of hit and miss releases, bands breaking up, or jumping ship to bigger labels. But we survived, and year five is shaping up be our best one yet. 2010 will see Pop Echo going back to basics. Releasing limited edition 7" singles and a few LPs from a bunch established Pop Echo acts (plus a few more acts that still have to sign on the dotted line). To celebrate our half decade we are throwing a party Friday December 18th at New City Likwid Lounge. Featuring Pop Echo recording artists Outdoor Miners and heat-ray plus special guests Jazz and dj Roland Pemberton III. Get there early for cake and chips, stay late for boozy shenanigans. hope to see you there! December 7, 2009 The Dumbing Of America has just released their top 20 albums of 2009. We are super excited to see heat-ray's debut Loveallover coming in at #3. November 30, 2009 December, 5th heat-ray at the Palomino in Calgary. Fire Dragon vs Ice Pegasus t-shirts available for order on the merch page. November 21, 2009 It's Royal Bison season. Pop Echo will be manning the Edmonton Record Label Collective booth. We will be unveiling our amazing new Fire Dragon vs Ice Pegasus t-shirts. Designed by the super talented Josh J. Holinaty These limited edition works of art will be available for mailorder next week. (As long as we don't sell out over the weekend). Just a reminder there are only a few of the Jeff Kulak designed shirts left. Get one this weekend of order one on the merch page. November 13, 2009 Outdoor Miners "Twelve Hundred Dollars" just received it's first five star review. Vue Weekly called if "perfect...the kind of thing you're going to want to run right out and get. Three songs packed with some of the most endearingly honest and strangely sentimental lo-fi Edmonton has been privy to this year" November 10, 2009 The wait is over! Outdoor Miners "Twelve Hundred Dollars" is available today on our own merch page and at finer record stores! November 3, 2009 Outdoor Miners "Twelve Hundred Dollars" available on iTunes today. Hey Alberta are you ready for two big Pop Echo shows this Friday? Outdoor Miners 7" release show at New City in Edmonton. heat-ray at Blind Beggar in Calgary. October 24, 2009 Weird Canada has posted the first review of Outdoor Miners "Twelve Hundred Dollars". Calling it "the biggest anthem to every rent-paying, cheapskate jerkoid who sneaks into shows, crowd-surf’s their unwilling friends, and steals 5-cent candies." We couldn't have said it any better. October 15, 2009 An old CBC session has resurfaced from 2006 that Elizabeth did before they even recorded their first album. If you want to hear some songs played at break-neck speeds check it out here Big News!! Elizabeth are finishing work on new songs that will become album #2...recording has yet to begin... October 8th 28, 2009 Pop Echo Records is totally stoked to announce the signing of Edmonton's Outdoor Miners Even though Outdoor Miners only started dating in late 2008, they highly anticipate where the relationship is going. After the disbanding of Belgium, Peter and Alec's previous band, they swiftly recruited Sean Macintosh on drums to form Outdoor Miners. After about six months of playing their take on fuzzy noise pop around Edmonton, Pop Echo approached the band. They were described in See Magazine's "local bands to watch in 2009" as "Technically proficient but not wanky, amazing hooks but not too poppy". Outdoor Miners and Pop Echo are teaming up to release a series of 7 inches over the next year, and the band is planning a North American tour for summer of 2010. Pop Echo will be releasing their debut single "Twelve Hundred Dollars" on iTunes November 3rd and in 7" form November 10th. The band will be celebrating the 7" release with a show November 6th at Likwid Lounge. September 28, 2009 Tim Gilbertson is back in the studio recording the follow up to his hit 2007 debut. We've heard a few rough mixes and they are AWESOME! Tim is playing a rare hometown show October 11th at the Woodcutter Lounge in Hinton. He will be showcasing tunes from the new album as well as past favorites. September 21, 2009 The world's best radio station CJSR turns 25 this year. Tune in this Saturday between 2pm and 3pm for the Weird Canada radio show. Pop Echo will be in the studio talking music with our good friend Aaron. It's also fundrive this week so we will be giving out a bunch of sweet Pop Echo swag for all those who donate during the hour. September 9, 2009 Hey race fans check out "the best NASCAR podcast, period!" All your favorite Pop Echo bands will be featured in the upcoming weeks. September 6, 2009 DVAS are getting the gang back together for another live set Friday, September 11th at the Supermarket in Toronto. DJ Fashen (50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, and Kanye West) gives Status magazine a list of his top 5 tracks. Guess what's on it? August 28, 2009 the Reviews for Loveallover are starting to roll in... "fuzzy sonic blasts" - The New Music "Loveallover - is a powerhouse" - Herohill "a work of genius" - The Dumbing Of America "de guitarras y distorsiones por doquier" - The Janglebox "wall-of-noise" - Edmonton Journal "punishing power" - Cannibal Cheerleader "como uma das maiores do ano Surpresas!"- The Blog That Celebrates It's Self "celebration of distortion and brawling blare" - Beatroute "Lovely!" - Shoegazer Alive "ear-splitting volume and waves of fuzz" - FFWD Weekly "sexy Sonic Youthy" - My Life As A Mixtape "loud and lush guitar-based pop" - The Passion Of Indie Music "Edmo ex-pat GOLD!" - Vue Weekly "uma das boas surpresas recentes da net" - Katacultura "dynamic rhythms...intertwining melodies" - Exclaim! "edgy sound of the 1990s" - Spill Magazine "magia do início dos anos 90 nunca acabe!" - The Crystal Lake ...lots more to come August 14, 2009 This Saturday, heat-ray at The Pawn Shop, Edmonton, with our good friends Boats. This is a early show, doors at 8pm and show at 9pm sharp! August 10, 2009 This Friday, The Whitsundays at The Anza Club, Vancouver as part of the OLIO Festival . August 4, 2009 Heat-Ray, Loveallover in stores today or order it here This Friday, Heat-Ray @ Henotic in Lethbridge. July 29, 2009 Some must see Pop Echo shows this weekend: Friday it's DVAS (live band!!) @ the Boat in Toronto Saturday it's Heat-Ray @ The Palamino in Calgary July 27, 2009 Elizabeth totally killed it at Virgin Festival Vancouver , last weekend. Read all about it and check out a video interview here July 20, 2009 Elizabeth will be playing Virgin Festival Vancouver , Saturday July 25th. Make sure to get there early to hear all your favs and few new ones. Hey...anybody up and watching TV at like 8:30 am? If so this Friday (July 24th) CityTVs Breakfast Television will be at the Virgin Festival grounds at Deer Lake Park. Elizabeth will also be there to perform an acoustic ditty and talk some. Set your alarms. July 13, 2009 Heat-Ray is having a party July 18th at the Marquee Room in Calgary with guests The Summerlad and Square Waves, to celebrate the release of their first full-length album Loveallover. This will be your only chance to get your hands on a copy of the album before the Aug 4th release date. Don't have the need for physical contact? Get the album on iTunes July 21st. June 28, 2009 DVAS have been busier then ever. The boys have reunited the live band for a series of summer shows. Including last weeks Pride House Party and next months live show at The Boat in Toronto. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit the discotheque in Blade Runner? Here is your chance, DVAS have just released their second mix for the amazing french collective Valerie. It’s a collection of exclusive tracks and edits that’s guaranteed to get the summer party started. June 20, 2009 Sled Island returns to Calgary this year. Make sure to check out Heat-Ray Friday, June 26th, 10:00 pm @ The Underground. The Whitsundays Wednesday, June 24th, 10:30 pm @ The Marquee Room and Thursday, June 25th, 12:00 am @ The Underground. June 16, 2009 Heat-Ray is back in Edmonton this Friday playing Brixx with Blush Connection and Allistar Quazzum! 18+ in the Brixx Bar & Grill (ex-Velvet Underground, Victory Lounge) this Friday, Jun 19th at 9:00pm. Tickets $10 @ the door. June 9, 2009 Hey Edmonton: Head on down to Louise McKinney Riverfront Park this Sunday June 14th for That’s Edmonton For You! A sweet suite of new songs about sustainable community, collaboratively composed and performed by leading members of Edmonton’s indie rock scene. Commissioned by The City of Edmonton, That’s Edmonton For You! is conceived, produced and directed by Trevor Anderson, and is created by Anderson (The Wet Secrets); Paul Arnusch (The Whitsundays, Faunts); Lyle Bell (Whitey Houston, The Wet Secrets, Shout Out Out Out Out, The Whitsundays); Colleen Brown (The Secretaries); Scott Davidchuk (The Get Down, The Whitsundays); Gravy (Whitey Houston, Shout Out Out Out Out); Nik Kozub (Shout Out Out Out Out, The Paranomasaic); Doug Organ (Red Ram, Edmontone Studio); Roland Pemberton (Cadence Weapon); Amy van Keeken (The Secretaries, DubVulture); Ted Wright (The Get Down, The James T. Kirks); with string arrangements by Moni Mathew and scratching by DJ Cameron Sound. Music produced and engineered by Doug Organ at Edmontone Studio. Download the free album here June 1, 2009 Hey Vancouver: Head on down to the Biltmore Cabaret this Saturday June 6 for this week's Glory Days featuring a live performance by Elizabeth, along with DJ sets by residents My! Gay! Husband! and Sincerely Hana. Doors at 10. See the Schedule page for more information on drink specials and cover. May 25, 2009 It's Royal Bison time again. Pop Echo will be at the art and craft fair Saturday and Sunday. After a series of loosely organized afterparties The Royal Bison decided it was time to add a official party to Edmonton's best indie arts and craft show. We are honored and excited that Pop Echo Records has been asked to curate the first "official" Royal Bison afterparty. Headlining the night will be local indie-pop sensations Hot Panda. Fresh off a North American tour in support of their Mint Records release "Volcano...Bloody Volcano". Hot Panda are well rested and tighter then ever. The Royal Bison Afterparty will see Calgary's heat-ray make their Edmonton debut. Featuring members of two of Alberta's best loved bands The Floor and Hot Little Rocket. heat-ray's sound is best described as the lush sweep of My Bloody Valentine mixed with the ear-splitting roar of Th' Faith Healers. Pop Echo Records will be releasing their debut lp "Loveallover" August 5th. Outdoor Miners are one of Edmonton's best young bands. Channeling the spirit of two of our favorite bands, Wire and Pavement. Get there early these guys are not to be missed. Rounding out the bill will be a Pop Echo djs Travy D and G Spot plus a few special guest djs See ya there! May 20, 2009 If you’re in Vancouver and looking to pick up some sweet Pop Echo swag, swing by the Cambrian Hall on Main and 17th on Sunday May 24 for the Blim Community Market. The Blim Community Market features more than 30 purveyors of fashion, accessories, arts and crafts, vintage items and records, as well as live music and refreshments. Pop Echo will be there alongside our good buddies from The Mustache Press, so come by to say hello and help support and encourage the local creative community. May 12, 2009 Pop Echo Records is pleased to welcome Calgary’s heat-ray into the fold. Formed in 2007, heat-ray consists of guitarist Aaron Smelski (Hot Little Rocket and Lotus Galaxy), vocalist Sheila Mann (Lotus Galaxy), guitarist/vocalist Matt Pahl, (The Floor, Columbus), drummer Jon Pynn and bassist Joel Tobman on bass (both formerly of Shiver). Together, this quintet of indie-scene veterans craft pop that evokes both the lush sweep of My Bloody Valentine and the ear-splitting roar of Th' Faith Healers. “I’ve always been about creating beautiful noise,” Smelski says. “Eventually, it gets to a point where noise turns into ambience. I love how that kind of music can be utterly beautiful and yet, at the same time, brutal like a punch to the gut.” After steadily winning over audiences with opening slots for the likes of Minus the Bear, The Cops and The Dodo's, heat-ray exploded with a much-talked about set at the 2008 Sled Island festival. Now, the band is channeling that momentum into their Pop Echo debut, recorded by the Summerlad's Arran Fisher, and set for release this summer. Edmonton audiences will get their first chance to feel the heat-ray on May 30 when they join The Whitsundays and Outdoor Miners at the ARTery for the official Royal Bison Craft & Art Fair afterparty, presented by Pop Echo and CJSR. April 28, 2009 Sled Island has announced their initial lineup. We are happy to announce The Whitsundays will be back again. Check out last years The Whitsundays Sled Island set at CBC Radio 3 April 20, 2009 DVAS just got new sportcoats. Check them out this Saturday at Lee's Palace. They will be dj'n the Shout Out Out Out Out show. April 14, 2009 No more pencils No more books No more teacher's dirty looks Schools out! So why not join us next Wednesday (April 22nd) for a special springtime edition of A Century Of Fakers. Pop Echo DJs Travy D and G Spot return for a one night party at the Black Dog. We will be spinning all your favorite indie hits and disco jams. Stay tuned we will be announcing the next Pop Echo party soon. April 8, 2009 It's spring cleaning time at the Pop Echo warehouse. We have dropped the price of the Bella-Columbus split and Juniour Bloomsday 7"s. Grab them on the merch page while you can. If you've had your eye on one of our limited edition t-shirts you better get on it. Some sizes are already sold out. April 1, 2009 Pop Echo djs are back! Travy D and G-spot will be back behind he decks this Friday for Display Magazine's Issue Two launch party. We will be on early spinning all the best indie, shoegaze and disco hits. Then it's a full on dance party with Nik 7 and Roland Pemberton the III. Cover is $12, and you get a free magazine with entry. See you all there. March 27, 2009 Elizabeth needs your help to play The Telus World Ski and Snowboard Festival in Whistler, BC. All you have to do is go here and vote (a five of course). March 19, 2009 The Whitsundays are heading out into the Canadian wilderness for a few weeks. Go check them out! March 21 - The Marquee Room - Calgary March 29 - The Black Dog - Edmonton March 30 - Saskatoon - Lydia's March 31 - Winnipeg - Lo Pub April 3 - Toronto - Sneaky Dee's April 4 - Guelph - Wally's Tavern April 5 - Windsor - Phog Lounge April 8 - Hamilton - Casbah Lounge April 14 - Kingston - Living Room April 15 - Ottawa - Zaphod's April 16 - Montreal - Green Room March 5, 2009 Yeah for friends!! The Faunts have just released their amazing new album Feel.Love.Thinking.Of. on Friendly Fire Recordings. They are playing two cd release shows, March 7th at the HiFi Club in Calgary and March 13th at the Pawn Shop in Edmonton. The Whitsundays will be opening both shows. Also available Faunts remixed featuring the DVAS remix of M4 (part 1) February 28 2009 It's been five years in the making but Pop Echo finally has t-shirts available. Designed by the uber-talented Jeff Kulak and printed on high quality, hipster approved American Apparel shirts. Available in two colour combos: brown on blue and purple on grey, these limited edition works of art are available on the merch page for only $20.00 shipping included (international orders are a few dollars more). Get them while you can. February 21 2009 On Friday, February 27th Edmonton's own Notebook Magazine is celebrationg the release of thier eighth issue at the ARTery. The Whitsundays will be providing musical entertianment there will be excellent spoken word, and art all for only a $3 cover The Whitsundays Eastern Canadian tour dates coming soon. February 18 2009 Our BFF Raymond E. Biesinger is having a birthday party this Friday at the ARTery. His very own band The Famines will be providing musical fun. This should be a fun filled night of boozey Shenanigans. The Famines hit the road for a bunch of Eastern tour dates. See the full itinerary here This Saturday DVAS are back behind the decks at Lipstick, Cherry at the Drake hotel in Toronto. Check out their February playlist here February 8 2009 Happy Valentines day weekend! Friday February 13th DVAS dj set at Strange Brew. It's kinda a secret eh, so don't let brewmeister Smith know we told you about it. Saturday February 14th The Whitsundays are opening for the Edmonton's sweetest band Hot Panda at the Pawn Shop in Edmonton. It's Hot Panda's LP release show (yeah we know it on Mint, don't hold it against them) so it will be a parteeee. Why don't you stop by one of our favorite places The Blue Plate Diner for a great pre-show meal complete with Hot Panda hot sauce Sunday February 14th it's the Daytona 500! go Kasey go! February 1, 2009 It's Royal Bison time again. Stop by, say hi and pick up some Pop Echo goodness January 12, 2009 Happy New Year! We have a bunch of stuff for you. Your danceparty just got a new disco anthem. DVAS have recorded their version of Foreigner's 1981 classic "Urgent". They did the track for the Buffetlibre boys, who will release their next Rewind mixtape very soon. Basically, this is how it works: Buffetlibre get awesome people to make awesome cover versions, which they then blast 2gether into awesome mixtapes. Check it here and don't miss DVAS dj set January 15th at College St. bar in Toronto. If you are in Calgary on Friday January 16th make sure you check out The Whitsundays at The Gateway as part of SAIT's 2009 welcome week. When we tell you to make sure not to miss a show we aren't telling tales. Like the Golden Hands Before God's December 20th show or that December 29th CJSR fundraiser we told you about. December 27, 2008 Pop Echo's crack DJ crew are back! On Monday December 29th, DJs Travy D and G Spot return to deliver an exclusive Mark-Morrison-free set of 90's low-fi and indie pop anthems. Join us at New City Liwkid Lounge (The Hydeaway flooded!) for a night of low-fi monster trucks, Sean Nicholas Savage, Patt Perri, The Bummers and featuring The Wicked Awesomes. We are over the moon about this one, Sean Savage's debut LP "Summer 5000" soundtracked most of 2008 for us and The Bummers "Your Not Invited To My BBQ" was this summer's go-to track. This is a CJSR benefit and is not to be missed! December 25, 2008 Happy Holidays Eh! Don't forget to stop by Zunior.com tomorrow for their awesome 2 for 1 boxing day sale. All your Pop Echo faves will be on sale for the low low price of $4.44, insane! December 23, 2008 Tim Gilbertson: master baker. December 18, 2008 No holiday breaks for the awesome The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band and the Spirits. The band is spending the weekend dishing out psychedelic holiday treats. Get your fix Saturday the 20th at Rancho Relaxo in Toronto. Double your fun on the 21st at the Phog Lounge in Windsor. The Boys play two homecoming shows, an all ages warm up at 5pm and a booze soaked affair at 9pm December 15, 2008 This Wednesday come join DJs Travy D and G-Spot for your monthly dose of indie pop and maybe have a little holiday cheer while you're at it (there will only be 8 sweet noggy days left!). Also, this may be our last night for a while, so now's your chance to catch the wonder that is Pop Echo behind the decks! December 12, 2008 Happy Holidays! For a limited time download a special Pop Echo Records comp. One track from each of our first ten releases. DVAS - Bromance Columbus - Christian Girls Vertical Struts - Girlfriend Boyfriend Junior Bloomsday (feat. Cadence Weapon ) - Your Perfect Gene Columbus - You Know Its True (Ma Radio Star remix) Elizabeth - War Is Beautiful Tim Gilbertson - Palm Trees And Postcards DVAS - Forever The Whitsundays - Sorry James The Golden Hands Before God - Communist Party you can get it HERE. December 5, 2008 Pop Echo is turning four! Why not start the seasonal celebrations at our fourth anniversary extravaganza on Dec. 12 at the ARTery. There will be music, courtesy The Whitsundays, The Famines and newcomers Kosmische, merriment and prizes for your stocking stuffer-needs. Tune into CBC radio Edmonton on your Friday drive home. Travy D and G Spot will be on air regaling you will tales from the Pop Echo round table. Check back here Friday for a special holiday gift from us. November 30, 2008 It's a DVAS remix frenzy. First up, they did a remix for College who are very French, very sexy and very much the centre of that whole Valerie scene which they're so fond of. Secondly, you may recall that they did a remix recently for Faunts. Well, it's officially getting a release, kicking off the band's brand new remix album on Friendly Fire Recordings. Coming soon to a blog near you! Cadence Weapon - Getting Dumb (DVAS Macho mix) Lastly, DVAS' limited edition, double-A side white vinyl seven-inch, Pop Echo Records' first official release, has SOLD OUT completely! A big thank you goes out to everyone who purchased the record! Anyone still interested in getting their hands on the tracks can find them on the DVAS MACHO 2003-2007 collection. November 27, 2008 Happy Thanksgiving USA November 26, 2008 Pop Echo will be at the Royal Bison Art & Craft Fair this weekend. Stop by, say hi and pick up some christmas presents for all you music loving friends. November 23, 2008 Catch Tim Gilbertson opening for Sylvie and This Civil Twilight Friday November 28th at The Velvet Underground. Tim is opening this show so make sure you get there early! November 20, 2008 Remember that The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band and the Spirits NXNE kick off show we told you about a few weeks ago? Did you go? If not you missed a night of "psychedelic-rock jam-band euphoria" that makes The Golden Hands live show "easily one of the best in the city". November 19, 2008 Elizabeth has two upcoming Vancouver shows. November 22nd at the Peanut Gallery and an all ages throwdown at the Sweatshop, November 28th. November 15, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns this wednesday. Join Pop Echo djs Travy D and G Spot at Red Star Pub for a night of indie pop fun. you can check out past play lists here. November 5, 2008 The Whitsundays are opening for Hey Rossetta and Two Hours Traffic Sunday November 9th at the Pawn Shop in Edmonton November 2, 2008 i [heart] music. has published their annual "Hottest Bands In Canada" list. We are proud to say The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits made their debut at number 30. Expect a much higher placing next year. In other Golden Hands news the band has been hand picked to play a special NXNE 2009 kick off show. November 11th at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto. October 31, 2008 Trick! or Treat! Happy Halloween! October 19, 2008 Pop Echo is in New York for CMJ this week. We will be at The Whitsundays shows October 21st at Black Betty in Brooklyn and the 22nd at the Village Underground as part of the Friendly Fire showcase. If you are around make sure you also check out our good friends Hot Panda, The Faunts, The Shout Out Out Out Out & The Wet Secrets October 12, 2008 The Western Canadian Music Awards are almost here and Pop Echo is throwing down party style! We have three big events this week. 1. Wedensday Oct.15th A Century Of Fakers returns to Red Star pub. The monthly stroll down indie pop lane continues with DJs Travy and Graham behind the decks spinning all the best pop tunes around. 2. Thursday Oct 16th. Pop Echo hosts an all ages extravaganza! Elizabeth, 7&7is and The Right Angles will dish out the rock 'n roll at The Hydeaway. Early show, doors at 7pm bands at 8pm. $5 cover and $5 gourmet hot dogs! What more could you ask for? 3. Friday Oct 17th. Pop Echo And The Mod Club Edmonton team up for a showcase not to be missed. Catch all your Pop Echo favs plus some special guests. $10 cover or FREE with your WCMA pass. Doors at 8pm 9 pm Tim Gilbertson 10 pm Elizabeth 11 pm The Famines 12 am Boats!! 1 am DVAS (dj set) Mod Club djs Blue Jay and Travy D spinning all the best indie, brit-pop, electro and 60's floor fillers between bands. October 4, 2008 The Whitsundays are playing a CMJ sendoff show Thursday October 9th at the Velvet Underground. Those of you in New York can catch the band October 21st at Black Betty in Brooklyn and the 22nd at the Village Underground in New York city as part of the Friendly Fire showcase. Hope to see you all there! October 1, 2008 Edmonton's amazing new all ages venue The Hydeaway opens this week with a bunch of rad shows . Be there or be square! Look for some Pop Echo acts to grace the stage very soon. September 27, 2008 "Here", the debut EP from The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits has been receiving rave reviews since it's release last month. It's being called: "the beautiful, bubbling love child of The Besnard Lakes and Black Mountain" - The Edmonton Journal "the best piece of music I’ve heard this year. 9.3 out of 10" - TwoWayMonologues.com "Hypnotic, enigmatic, suspenseful, 5 out of 5 stars" - The Windsor Star Check out a full list of reviews here The band has been busy with a big move to Montreal and are getting ready for the fall music festival season. check them at Pop Montreal October 4th at O Patro Vys Halifax Pop Explosion October 22nd at the Marquee (with the Inbreads) NXNE special event November 11th at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto more tour dates here September 21, 2008 Pop Echo has two big events this Wednesday! A Century Of Fakers returns to Red Star pub. DJs Travy D and G Spot will be spinning all the best pop tunes around. The music starts at 9pm. $3.50 drink specials all nite! Past playlists are here. If you like the rock 'n roll check out The Famines opening for We Are Wolves at the Pawn Shop. Either way you can't go wrong September 15, 2008 The Western Canadian Music Awards are coming to champion city and Pop Echo has something BIG planned. more details coming soon September 9, 2008 DVAS are back! catch them with Pants & Tie October 10th at Sneaky Dee's in Toronto. DVAS did a remix a while ago for pants and Tie. It's a song called "You Rub Me The Wrong Way" and it's coming out soon on LP and CD format with two of their tracks and a remix from Nik 7 of S04. But for you Internet seekers, you can find the DVAS version online here September 3, 2008 The Whitsundays are playing a free All Ages show Friday September 12 in Sir Winston Churchill Square for Moving Music. The show is a part of Transit Centennial Week celebrating 100 years of public transit in Edmonton. August 26, 2008 The Famines are getting set to hit the road again. They are teaming up with Montreal's hard hitting We Are Wolves for the following September dates 22nd - The Royal Albert Arms, Winnipeg. MB 23rd - Amigo's, Saskatoon, SK 24th - Pawn Shop, Edmonton, AB 25th - The Republik, Calgary, AB Check out The Famines interview and videos over at Vue Weekly. August 17, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns this Wednesday! Once again, DJs Travy D and G Spot spinning the sunniest songs after dark. This month also sees Pop Echo's Jer-Lo joining us behind the decks spinning whatever sonic discoveries he's made since moving to Vancouver. The music starts at 9pm. $3.50 drink specials! past playlists are here. August 13, 2008 DVAS will be killing the dancefloor this Saturday at Lipstick, Cherry Check out a their Aug 08 playlist here August 11, 2008 The Whitsundays Sled Island show is available at CBC Radio 3. Our good Friends at I Heart Music have a feature on the show and some other nice things to say about Pop Echo. August 5, 2008 It's finally "Here"! "Here", the long-awaited debut EP from Windsor's The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits is out today in Canada! The album is available on CD, clear 12" vinyl (vinyl comes with free mp3 download), and digitally (iTunes, Zunior, and other digital outlets). Fans in the Toronto area can catch their CD release show on August 9th, and Windsor fans can catch 3 (!) shows on the 10th! U.S. fans will have to wait a little longer for the official release stateside, but don't let that stop you from hitting up popecho.com. July 31, 2008 The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits debut album "Here" has made a strong debut at #34 on the Earshot Charts. Keep the requests coming and thanks to all thoses who have helped. Sean and Damien Golden Hands took part in an interview with CJAM 91.5 FM's Adam Fox. You can hear the interview in its entirety right here July 26, 2008 remember that banging DVAS track "Ambient Room?" Well, it's been given a thorough re-rub by the boys in SymbolOne. And guess what? It's online for y'all to enjoy. It's also at radical blog Discodust In case you've been living under a rock (or only listening to the Doobies) for the past six months, SymbolOne are a pair of European cats who make some serious tracks. They may be from Ireland or from Croatia and they may be identical twins seperated at birth. July 23, 2008 Our good friend Raymond Biesinger, illustrator extraordinaire and ex-Vertical Strut (R.I.P.), got together a little while ago with Garrett Kruger, drummer extraordinaire and ex-Wolfnote, to perform some musical black magic. Deep within their cavernous studio, The Famines were born. They've put out a double 7"(!) and you can buy the digital tunes from iTunes here. Zunior to follow soon. The ever-mighty Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits are very near to unleashing their incredible debut EP (on both CD and clear !2" vinyl) on August 5th, but you can skip the line and preorder it now! Just take your mouse for a mosey and click on our merch page. July 12, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns to Red Star pub this Wednesday. Join DJs Travy D and G-Spot once again for the sweetest sounds you rarely hear. $3.50 drink specials! You can check out past playlists here. July 5, 2008 DVAS has been hard at work in the gym getting ready for their upcoming shows. Watch the boys get macho live July 18 at the Pawn Shop and July 19 in the Canadian wilderness at Motion Notion. June 22, 2008 Want Elizabeth to play at your house? The boys kick of their western Canadian tour this week. If you live in any of the Western Canadian cities that Elizabeth will be passing through this summer and are having a party that night just send them a message. They will play at your house for nothing. Elizabeth opening for the Arctic Monkeys. June 12, 2008 Pop Echo is in Toronto for NXNE. We will see you all at The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits show Friday night at the Savahana Room. Is your band playing? If you're any good we will say hi after your showcase. June 9, 2008 The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits debut album will be out August 5th in Canada and a month later in the US. The album will be available on limited edition clear vinyl as well as on cd and digitally. The Golden Hands.. are playing for the good folks at the NCRC Tuesdays night at The Loop in Windsor, ON If you are going to be in Toronto for NXNE make sure to catch the bands showcase show Friday night at the Savanah Room. Then they join up with The Besnard Lakes for two dates June 14th at Call The Office in London, ON and June 15th at The Casbah in Hamliton, ON More Dates coming soon. June 4, 2008 The Whitsundays play a festival warm up show this friday at the Velvet Underground in Edmonton. Catch them at Virgin Festival and Sled Island Festival later this month. Stay tuned for more The Whitsundays Canadian and US tour dates coming soon May 26, 2008 Elizabeth is in the process of finalizing their spring western Canadian tour. confirmed Dates so far include May 30 @ Wise Hall, Vancouver, BC - A Benefit Concert for the Crisis in the Congo June 2 @ Richards On Richards, Vancouver, BC - with Jaguar Love June 24 @ O'hanlons Irish Pub, Regina, SK - Free show!! June 26th @ The Republik, Calgary, AB - Sled Island Festival More dates will be added soon. In the meantime check out the exclusive Dustin Hawthorne's (of Hot Hot Heat) remix of War Is Beautiful. May 22, 2008 Exclusive to the glamorous French blog Valerie, DVAS has assembled their first-ever mixtape. Dubbed 'DVAS Passion Communication,' it includes some exclusive edits, old favourites and future classixxx. The mix also includes a brand new DVAS track called "Watching You," which will appear on a new EP to be released this summer. May 19, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns to Red Star pub this wednesday. Join Pop Echo djs Travy D and G Spot for a night of indie pop fun. you can check out past play lists here. Stay tuned for some big A Century Of Fakers news coming soon.... May 16, 2008 The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits have finished "Here". Check out two of the finished tracks at their myspace page. The album won't be out untill July but it's already being mentioned as a 2008 Polaris Prize contender may 8, 2008 Pop Echo loves the Famines, you should too. may 5, 2008 The Whitsundays self titled LP is this weeks featured album at i [heart] music. Too lazy to get down to your local record store? i (heart) music is giving away a copy of the album. April 28, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns this wednesday for a special end of classes edition. Join Pop Echo djs Travy D and G Spot at Red Star Pub for a night of indie pop fun. you can check out past play lists here. April 17, 2008 The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits are putting the final touches on "Here" as you read this. Check out their updated myspace blog and see what I heart music, Burgeoning Metropolis, Two Way Monologues, and Hero Hill have to say about the band. While you are at Hero Hill check out the excellent The Whitsundays and Tim Gilbertson reviews. April 12, 2008 There are two big summer festivals hitting Calgary this year, Virgin Festival and Sled Island Festival. We are proud to announce that The Whitsundays have been confirmed for both and Elizabeth for Sled Island. April 10, 2008 Another boring night at the Junos Sunday. You can help zazz up the 2009 Junos by joining the ranks in support of the drive to make our good friend and long time Pop Echo supporter Nardwuar the '09 Juno Host.. The good folks at Chart Magazine have set up a facebook group for the cause. If your life is so unfulfilling that you're into Facebook, you should show your support for Chart's most famous contributor by visiting the "Make Nardwuar The Human Serviette The Host Of The 2009 Juno Awards" Facebook page April 7, 2008 Are "suspiciously pale-looking knob-twiddler-types" DVAS "better than Justice"? Find out for yourself April 26th at the Hi Fi Club Calgary or pack up your glow sticks and patchouli and head out to Motion Notion July 17th - 20th (during July's full-moon!!) April 1, 2008 Edmonton's best all ages promoters and poster designers Push Pins have two big events coming up. 1. No Competition, Just Collaboration April 4th & 5th. Pop Echo will have a table at the Flea market Saturday afternoon. Stop by say hi. 2. Tim Gilbertson headlines his first all ages show April 12th at Jekyll and Hyde (10610 100ave Edmonton, AB) March 28, 2008 Junior Bloomsday's debut single featuring Cadence Weapon is now available on iTunes. Prefer vinyl? There are still a few in the Pop Echo shop One great indie deserves another. We are jacked to announce that Pop Echo has teamed up with Canadian independent digital distributor Zunior. Zunior.com sells high quality digital music from independent artists. Check them out today and download the latest digital sampler featuring Tim Gilbertson & The Whitsundays. March 24, 2008 Don't miss The Whitsundays' "dreamy, harmony-heavy" "retro-obsessed AM pop" When they open for The Most Serene Republic April 4th at The Starlite Room in Edmonton and April 5th at The Warehouse in Calgary as part of Junofest. March 17, 2008 A Century Of Fakers returns this wednesday at Red Star pub. Join Pop Echo djs Travy D and G Spot for a night of indie pop goodness. you can check out past play lists here. March 11, 2008 The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits are getting set to return to Montreal to put the finishing touches on "here". In the meantime you can check out the bands "face melting" live show March 20th at The Room in Windsor, ON. Nowhere near the "City of Roses"? The Golden Hands before God... on youtube March 4, 2008 Apple loves DVAS too. Their already blog hyped track "Forever" is featured on iTunes' Essentials, Indie Electronic album. This just in! DVAS dj set March 21st at The Mod Club @ Halo (10538 Jasper ave, Edmonton) alongside weekly residents dj's Blue Jay and Pop Echo's very own Travy D February 29, 2008 Elizabeth are back on stage opening for British Sea Power March 5th at the Plaza Club in Vancouver. BSP is one of the best live bands around, this show is a must see for all those in the 'couve. Elizabeth will be heading out for several Canadian dates this summer. Keep checking their website for details. It only happens once every four years Tim Gilbertson is headlining the great "Party On The Leap" show tonight at Teddy's (112th and Jasper, Edmonton). Head on over to Tim's myspace for a free download of "Wasting Air". February 27, 2008 The Hipsters love DVAS too. Their hot new track "Ambient Room" is getting the remixxx treatment from two special guests. If you are feeling generous stop by H&M and pick up a matching set of Tiga hoodies for Dietzche and the Snowman and a My Chemical Romance T for Vis A Vis February 22, 2008 The dreamy track "I Want It All" from The Whitsundays' debut was featured on CBC Radio 3's always awesome weekly podcast with Grant Lawrence. Check out Episode 143 over at the Website (just click on "Podcasts and Shows"). And don't forget to send in your requests for the The Whitsundays and all your Pop Echo favourites. February 20, 2008 The French love DVAS too. The boys are set to rock the party March 20th at the re-lanched nrmls wlcm club night in Edmonton and March 22nd at the Palamino Calgary February 14, 2008 Tim Gilbertson returns with two shows February 29th at Teddy's and March 26th at the Starlite Room opening for Dragonette! Tim's debut album is still going strong scoring a 9.2 out of 10 at Two Way Monologues The February 21st issue of Rolling Stone has a warning for the New Pornographers "look out: These guys (The Whitsundays) are the next big Canadian indie supergroup" Check it out the next time you are waiting for the dentist. A Century Of Fakers returns to Red Star pub February 20th for your monthly dose of indie pop delights. You can check out past play lists here February 6, 2008 The Whitsundays (currently #7 on the Canadian Campus Charts) are playing two album release shows. February 7th at The Republik in Calgary and February 8th at the Artery in Edmonton. The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits are almost finished up recording at Breakglass Studios in Montreal. The 7 tracks are being mixed by Jace Lasek and will be released as a 12" vinyl LP for our 10th release! Catch them at the Loop in Windsor on February 22nd. DVAS has posted a new track "Ambient Room". According to the band "It's about promoting a club night to hippies who don't like house music. It's also pretty pop, coz it has voxxx in it." watch for more DVAS shows at the end of March. January 23, 2008 The self-titled debut of Pop Echo Records/Friendly Fire Recordings artist The Whitsundays is starting to get some attention south of the border. In just it's second week on the college chats, the Whitsundays are sitting at number five, just behind some guys called "Radiohead" and "Daft Punk". That's number five nationwide, people. So, Canada: what about you? Show the Alberta boys some love: visit Chart Attack to track down your local campus radio station and then drop them a line telling them to play The Whitsundays. Then head to our merch page at popecho.com, itunes or your local record store to buy it for yourself. It's really the patriotic thing to do. January 22, 2008 The debut album by pop supergroup THE WHITSUNDAYS is out now on CD and itunes from Pop Echo Records in Canada and Friendly Fire Recordings in the U.S.A. Catch them live on February 7 at the Republik in Calgary and February 8 at The Artery in Edmonton. And keep watching this space for more Whitsunday tour news. January 14, 2008 Tim Gilbertson is featured on CBC Radio's Edpod today January 9, 2008 It's a new year, and as the saying goes, out with the old and in with the new. The old? A few titles from our back catalogue are now cheaper then ever! The Vertical Struts full-length, Columbus' EP, and DVAS' white hot 7" are now only $5 for Canadian orders, and $9 for international orders! Get 'em while you can, as a few are running very, very low. The new? Well, The Whitsundays debut, currently burning up the blogs, drops January 22nd. After that, The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits will be coming out sometime in the spring, a new website is in the works, and there are plenty of secrets we just can't let out quite yet. Stay tuned! December 17, 2007 The Whitsundays. are Spin's artist of the day today December 16, 2007 Happy birthday to us! For this month's edition of A Century of Fakers, we're also celebrating our third birthday. Joining DJs Travy D and G-Spot behind the decks for this special edition of their monthly residency will be the legendary Dietzche V., Vertical Struts alumnus and local artiste Raymond Biesinger and Pop Echo prodigy Tim Gilbertson. Bring any two donations to the Edmonton Food Bank, and Pop Echo will give you one free 7" of your choosing from our back catalogue! It all goes down this Wednesday, December 19, at Red Star Pub, 10534 Jasper Avenue, and the fun starts at 8pm. Read about it here. If you happen to be on Facebook, you can RSVP here. November 28, 2007 Tim Gilbertson is wrapping up his stint as Sonic 102.9s Band Of The Month with a live show this friday. Catch Tim live at the Pawn Shop (10551 82ave Edmonton) with special guests Illfit Outfit Pop Echo will be at the Royal Bison Art & Craft Fair this weekend. Stop by, say hi and pick up some christmas presents for all you music loving friends. November 22, 2007 Junior Bloomsday, who some of you will remember from his five-star debut 7" featuring our best friend Cadence Weapon, has just released his first LP "Nervous Habitats" on Roast Records. Catch Junior live this Saturday at the Artery, 9535 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton. There are still a few 7"s left in the Pop Echo shop. November 16, 2007 For those of you in the Edmonton area, come on down to Red Star Pub on Wednesday, November 21 for A Century of Fakers, a monthly celebration of all things indie pop. Pop Echo Records' own Travy D and G-Spot will be behind the decks, spinning nuggets of audio gold. Our friends The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits have been busy! They've got some rough tracks from their forthcoming Pop Echo release up for your listening pleasure on their MySpace page, and they've also got a blog! You can also find this link on the Bands page. November 12, 2007 The Whitsundays are featured on CBC Radio's Edpod today November 1, 2007 Tim Gilbertson is Sonic 102.9's Band Of The Month for November. Catch Tim live for the Band Of The Month showcase, November 30th at the Pawn Shop with Illfit Outfit October 31, 2007 Sure, November 11 is already marked on everyone's calendar for more important reasons, but now you have two more reasons to take note: 1. Tim Gilbertson is playing a national tour wrap-up party (All together now, "Nice work, Tim!") alongside Boats and Hot Panda at The Pawn Shop! 2. DVAS is playing close enough to you to feel their sweat! Catch them at Halo when they open for Paul Devro. They're bringing DJ Nik 7 along for the fun too! October 11, 2007 Tim Gilbertson is heading out on tour. He still has a few empty dates so if you can help him out with a show please let him know. tour dates are Oct. 6 Hinton, AB Oct. 12 Calgary, AB Oct. 17 Thunder Bay, ON Oct. 19 Sault Ste. Marie, ON Oct. 22 Ottawa, ON Oct. 23 Guelph, ON Oct. 25 Windsor, ON Oct. 27 Peterborough, ON Oct. 28 Toronto, ON Nov. 2 London, ON Nov. 3 Waterloo, ON Nov. 11 Edmonton, AB Expect a few more dates to be added soon. October 2, 2007 The Whitsundays make their live debut this Thursday October 4th at the El Mocambo in Toronto then play Pop Montreal Friday the 5th as part of the Friendly Fire showcase at Les 3 Minots. September 30, 2007 Hey Vancouverites! Catch Elizabeth opening for Arctic Monkeys* tonight at the PNE! *Fun Fact: Pop Echo Records tried to sign Arctic Monkeys one year before their major label debut. September 25, 2007 Get MACHO now! Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman's "DVAS MACHO 2003 - 2007" is in stores and on iTunes today. September 8, 2007 Beat the line-up at the store! Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman's "DVAS Macho 2003 - 2007" is now available for preorder! Orders will be shipped on September 19, 2007. If you have a bit of patience, the disc will be available on iTunes and in stores September 25, 2007. September 5, 2007 The Vertical Struts debut 7" is SOLD OUT! If you're really lucky, you might be able to find one of the few (like 3) floating around through Scratch Records. In related news, there are only 20 copies left of Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman's super-swank, white vinyl, double A-side 7"! Get them now as they're likely to sell out at DVAS triumphant return to the stage this Friday at the Starlite Room for their "DVAS Macho 2003 - 2007" CD Release Party! Their new CD, collecting every dancefloor extravagornza they've recorded so far, will be in stores Sept 25,and will be available for preorder very soon! August 27, 2007 Shows! Shows! Shows! Two Pop Echo bands make their long awaited return September 7th. Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman party down at the Starlite Room in Edmonton in celebration of the release of "DVAS Macho 2003 - 2007". Elizabeth return to the stage in Vancouver for Casbah! RocknRoll Club Night at the Library Square Public House. Be there or be square. August 3, 2007 Here's the deal: Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman are putting out a 10-song Greatest Hits LP, MACHO 2003-2007, this fall on Pop Echo Records. The LP tracks the duo's rise from fledgling, pale-skinned knob twiddlers to the toned dance icons they've become. The collection has it all: the guts, the glamour, the glory, the blood, the sweat, the tears, the lotion, the floppies, the blades, the ceiling sit ups, the leather manties, and most importantly, the unbridled menergy of these two bronzed visionaries. Brand new tracks include the space-disco-meets-gay-biker-house of "You're Amazing" and the stone-cold thriller "Black Rain," which name checks Richard Gere and explores the forbidden -- and delicious -- spheres of pain, pleasure, and sin. In other words, DVAS is back. Some said it would never happen. In fact, the band themselves said it wouldn't. But guess what, fuckers, the DVAS game is locked tighter than ever and the boys are ready to jack. Are you? August 1, 2007 Are you ready for some hot news? O.K.! We're pleased to report the debut CD by Edmonton's own Tim Gilbertson has cracked the Canadian campus radio Top 50! Make sure you drop your local campus or community radio station a line and request they give Tim a spin. And when you're finished doing that, you should really go see the man himself when he takes the stage at the Velvet Underground on August 11, 2007 with Toy Singers. Tickets are $8 at the door. July 24, 2007 Pop Echo Records is pleased to announce that Tim Gilbertson's full-length eponymous debut hits shelves and iTunes TODAY! June 27, 2007 Pop Echo Records is incredibly psyched to announce the signing of Windsor Ontario's THE GOLDEN HANDS BEFORE GOD CONDUCTS INCREDIBLE MAGIC BAND & THE SPIRITS. A psychedelic congregation of sonic bliss, The Golden Hands Before God... is an assemblage of some of Windsor's most respected scene veterans, manipulating sounds into a choir of dreamy cacophony. They've spent the last year honing their sound and live performance, landing opening slots with such bands as The Besnard Lakes, The High Dials, The High Strung, The Mark Inside, The Ride Theory, Twilight Hotel and Wax Mannequin. In 2006, they were picked to be one of the featured performers at the P.A. Music Festival in Windsor, Ontario, alongside such acts as The Golden Dogs, The High Strung, The Coast, Sunparlour Players, Lindy and more. In January of 2007, The Golden Hands Before God... were featured on CBC Radio One. In August of 2007, they will be travelling to Breakglass Studios in Montreal, Quebec to work with Jace Lasek (The Besnard Lakes, Young Galaxy, Patrick Watson, Stars, Wolf Parade, etc.) on their debut EP, which will be released this fall through Pop Echo Records. "Bliss out to the narcotic sounds of The Golden Hands Before God Conducts Incredible Magic Band & The Spirits...the congregation's dreamy musical output draws easy comparisons to the likes of Mazzy Star and the Velvet Underground." Dalson Chen, The Windsor Star (Nov. 27, 2006) www.myspace.com/thegoldenhandsbeforegod May 31, 2007 Pop Echo Records is pleased to announce the signing of rising Edmonton singer-songwriter Tim Gilbertson. Tim's full-length debut will hit shelves and iPods this summer. At just 20 years old, Gilbertson has already impressed with his penchant for timeless power-pop hooks, inviting comparisons to the likes of Pinback, Modest Mouse, and the Weakerthans. The product of a musical family- mom plays piano, dad plays guitar, his sister is a music teacher, one brother is a drummer and the other plays guitar-Gilbertson's musical precociousness manifested itself early. He began playing guitar at age 8 and eventually worked his way through numerous high school bands. In 2005 Gilbertson set down a five song demo in his brother's Spruce Grove basement studio which led to a Craigslist rendezvous with Vancouver producer Andrew Shaw. Gilbertson and Shaw worked through the summer of 2006, eventually coming away with an 11-song LP. After months of shopping the album around, Gilbertson caught the ears of local label Pop Echo, who were as impressed by the young troubadour's crunchy pop ditties as they were by his maturity and ambition. The eponymous debut LP from Tim Gilbertson will be released July 24, 2007, on Pop Echo Records. May 4, 2007 Elizabeth is heading overseas for a 2 week UK tour you can check them out at: Blue Cat Cafe May 06 2007 Stockport Ignition May 07 2007 Newcastle TBA May 08 2007 Liverpool TBA May 09 2007 Manchester The Casbah May 10 2007 Sheffield Whistlebinkies Live Music Bar May 11 2007 Edinburgh The Old Kings Head May 12 2007 London Brighton May 13 2007 London City Screen Basement Bar May 14 2007 York Mixing Tin May 15 2007 Leeds, The Brickyard May 16 2007 Carlisle The Arches: Club NME May 17 2007 Glasgow Jukebox May 18 2007 Newcastle Then back home to play day two of Vancouvers V fest - Virgin Music Festival May 21st Thunderbird Stadium Vancouver April 24, 2007 First Excommunications, the debut full-length album from Elizabeth is available now at finer records stores, iTunes, and all other major digital stores. January 17, 2007 First Excommunications, the debut LP from Vancouver quartet Elizabeth, will be released by Pop Echo Records on March 20, 2007. Elizabeth was formed in the winter of 2002 by brothers Reggie and Paul Gill (vocals/guitars and drums respectively), bassist Rory O'Sullivan and guitarist Davor Katinic. Elizabeth made its mark opening for a number of renowned Canadian and international acts, including The Organ, Death from Above 1979, T.V. on the Radio and Franz Ferdinand. In 2004, following triumphant festival performances at Pop Montreal and North By Northeast, the band unleashed a self-released EP that solidified them as one of Vancouver's most promising, and most contentious, buzz bands. First Excommunications was recorded in July 2006 at The Hive studios and produced by Jesse Gander and Elizabeth. A western mini-tour to mark the CD release is in the works, as is an early summer United Kingdom jaunt. First Excommunications will be available in Canada on CD through Scratch Distribution and worldwide in digital form, including iTunes, through IODA. January 3, 2007 Hi there! It's bit a while, we know, but we wanted to wish everybody a happy holiday season and thank everybody who supported us and all the bands in 2006. It was a quiet year, but I'm here to tell you we've got some great stuff coming up in 2007. What that entails, well, you're just going to have to wait and see. Stay tuned! October 18, 2006 We have just signed a new digital distribution deal with IODA. You can now download all of our digital releases worldwide through most digital retailers. A full list is located here: www.iodalliance.com September 21, 2006 Vertical Struts 2001-2006 It is with a heavy heart and furrowed brow that Pop Echo announces the passing from this world of the Vertical Struts. We at Pop Echo were devotees of the dynamic twosome and their brand of wonderfully fractured garage rock long before there even was such a thing as Pop Echo. In releasing their one and only CD, we can say we played a small role in the legacy of one of Edmonton's finest musical products, and we're proud to have been a part of it. The final word goes to drummer Trevor Anderson: "It was September 2001 when Raymond Biesinger and Trevor Anderson decided, on a lark, to form a band and play two weeks later as the "entertainment" at a Canadian University Press conference here in Edmonton. Little did we know that decision would lead us from Victoria to Montreal twice, into the arms of Edmonton record label Pop Echo, up the national campus charts to #11 (that's like a #1 for each of the two of us), through a van heist and a highway crash to this, the end of the road. As we shake hands and part ways, we want to thank everyone who's listened to us, danced, drank or played with us, booked us, promoted us, let us sleep on your couches, floors or pool tables, and generally proven to us that the rock and roll underground of Canada is just one big small town. OK, everyone. That's our show. If there's any beer left on our tab, help yourselves. Thanks for coming out. Get home safe." June 27, 2006 The Split EP from Bella and Columbus is now available on our merch page and through fine retailers near you. You can get a preview over at our MySpace (myspace.com/popechorecords) page. Also make sure you drop by Bellas web homes here (www.bellamusic.org) and here (www.myspace.com/bella) for news and tour dates. For the latest Columbus news, check em out on MySpace (www.myspace.com/columbusband). May 11, 2006 Yeah, we caved: www.myspace.com/popechorecords April 20, 2006 Pop Echo is away for spring break from April 25th to May 2nd, so all e-mails and online orders will be addressed when we return. March 31, 2006 Columbus and the Vertical Struts are now available on iTunes. March 16, 2006 As previously mentioned, we're super stoked about the upcoming Bella/Columbus split seven-inch. Well, now we have even more reason to be excited as this baby will feature not one, but two exclusive remixes by Joy Electric (who take on Bella's "Crystal Tears") and Ma Radio Star (Pedro Resende of Tahiti 80, who reworks Columbus' "You Know Its True"). Neat, huh? Also, for you Vertical Struts fans out there, if you haven't got your hands on their "Plans for Her/Blues From an Airplane" seven-inch, get over to the merch page. There's only about 20 of these red-vinyl babies left so get them before they're gone forever. And before you go, take a look at this super review of the Junior Bloomsday "Marygold/Your Perfect Gene" seven inch from the Edmonton Journal. February 21, 2006 Hey '80s fans: while you're checking out Bob Mould (ex- H|sker D|, as if you didn't know) on Saturday, March 4 at the Starlite Room, get there early and check out the opening set by Junior Bloomsday. January 26, 2006 OK, here's what you need to know: Pop Echo Records and the Wet Secrets are an item. Yup, Edmonton's elusive ad hoc supergroup are going into the studio to record the follow up to last year's DIY smash "A Whale of a Cow". The new album will be a monster, with at least six brand new tracks and, for those who missed out the first time, new versions of all 10 songs from "...Cow", And don't even get us started on the extra goodies we can't tell you about yet. This is some hot stuff, kids. Watch this space for more updates. Also, we're thrilled to announce that Vancouver's Bella is joining forces with Edmonton's own Columbus for a split seven-inch. Look for the fruits of this pop partnership sometime this spring, only on Pop Echo Records. January 10, 2006 Pop Echo is pleased to announce one-man electrofuzzpop machine Junior Bloomsday is set to drop his debut release, the "Marygold"/"Your Perfect Gene" seven-inch on Tuesday, January 31. You can get your hands on this limited edition, yellow vinyl gem (featuring a guest spot by Cadence Weapon) in finer record stores, through Scratch Distribution or online through our merch page. Also, come check out the album release show on Friday, January 27 at the Velvet Underground (10030-102nd Street, Edmonton) with special guests Down North and Duck! (Calgary, ex-Reverie Sound Revue). Tickets are a measly $8; doors open at 8 p.m. Attention citizens of the United States of America: Pop Echo Records is coming to your country. Yup, thanks to our pals at Scratch Records, Pop Echo's catalogue is now available stateside through Revolver, Darla, Insound, Surefire, Carrot Top, and Southern Records. That means red and blue staters alike can now get a hold of such choice selections as the Vertical Struts eponymous CD and Columbus' Debut EP from their local record shops. U.S.A! U.S.A! Unlike some people, the Vertical Struts aren't afraid to say they love Canada. So, as part of heir ongoing efforts to combat western alienation and regional divisions, Edmonton's federal ambassadors of rock are loading up the van and heading east for yet another road swing. If you missed them on their last eastern Canadian outing in November, make sure you check them out this time. See the tours page for dates and places. December 9, 2005 Check it out: Esquire Junior is throwing a shindig for the release of the new joint from rapper/producer/dynamo Cadence Weapon. The Vertical Struts and Pop Echo's own DJ Travy D will be there to help get the party started. Shit goes down Saturday, December 17 at the Velvet Underground (10030 - 102 Street). Also: have you bought your tickets for the big New Years show (featuring Dietzche V. and the Abominable Snowman, the Shout Out Out Out Out) yet? If not, why the hell not? December 5, 2005 Let's face it: New Years Eve kinda sucks. It's the one day a year where good times are mandatory and disappointment all but inevitable, thanks to the dizzying cocktail of high expectations and cheap champagne. But what if we promised that this year will be different? What if we were to tell you about an event jam-packed with enough awesome-itude that it will make every New Years Eve bash before and since look like your sixth birthday party where the only person that showed up was the smelly kid from down the street that your mom made you invite, where the clown showed up reeking like Royal Reserve and where you ended up barfing after eating all the frosting off your crappy Safeway cake? You'd probably go ape-shit, is what. But enough of the preamble: ladies and gents, ringing in the New Year at the Starlite Room, I give you the unstoppable techno-dance-rock multiple-hit combo of Dietzche V. & The Abominable Snowman, the Shout Out Out Out Out, Lazersnake and very special guest DJ Reuben Wu (Ladytron). You can't beat that for 20 bucks. Tickets on sale at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge-by-phone 451-8000, online, Blackbyrd, Megatunes, & Listen. November 1, 2005 We're pleased to announce the debut CD by the incomprable Vertical Struts is now available! Buy it from our merch page, visit Scratch Records, or ask for it at your local record shop today! For a preview, go to www.verticalstruts.com and check out their "Sounds". Finally, the Struts wil be barnstorming their way across Canada this month, so check the tours section to see when they are coming to your town October 17, 2005 Konichiwa! Columbus' Debut EP is now available in Tokyo, Japan through our new friends at Apple Crumble Record! Check the Tours section for more Vertical Struts live dates. September 15, 2005 The Vertical Struts brand spanking new CD is here! Look for it in stores and online verrrry soon. Also, check out the Tours page for a whole bunch of new dates. Eastern Canada: the Struts are coming for you! In other news, Columbus are back in the studio to record their full length follow up to their Pop Echo Debut EP. Unfortunately, due to studio commitments, they will not be appearing at the Sidetrack Cafe with the High Dials on November 12 as previously reported. Sorry. September 15, 2005 Hot on the heels of a successful western Canadian mini-tour (including two nights opening up for Canadian electro-pop superstars Metric), Columbus is riding high on the charts! Yesirree, the Debut EP by River City's finest purveyors of sweet pop music hit lucky number 13 on the !earshot national college campus radio charts for the week of September 13, 2005, eclipsing the previous high-water mark of number 26 set back in August. Thanks to everyone who gave the record a spin or called to request it: keep it up! And don't forget: if you can't find Columbus's Debut EP or any other fine Pop Echo products at your favorite record shop, you can visit our merch page to order online, or get your local retailer to contact our friends at Scratch Records. Oh and speaking of online orders: Pop Echo is taking a little end-of-summer vacation from September 20 to 27th, so all e-mails and online orders will be addressed when we return. September 9, 2005 Hey! We've got new Vertical Struts live dates in our "tours" section. The CD is coming soon, and it's gonna be awesome. Also, Columbus hits the road this weekend (September 9-11) for three western Canadian shows in three nights, and Junior Bloomsday joins Frog Eyes at the Victory Lounge on Wednesday, September 14. August 15, 2005 Check out our new Merch page! July 27, 2005 Columbus debut CD EP available now! Look for it in finer record stores or order through Scratch Records Vancouver. Check out the CD Release show this Saturday, July 30 at the Victory Lounge with special guest Junior Bloomsday. June 29, 2005 We now have a TOURS section on our site for your convenience. Some other changes will be happening around here soon too. We are quite excited. June 22, 2005 CJSR FM88 has a half-hour feature on Dietzche V & the Abominable Snowman. Check it out here. Here are some upcoming shows: Dietzche V & the Abominable Snowman July 9th Underground 10249 - 97 street, Edmonton (All Ages with Cadence Weapon and Junior Bloomsday) Vertical Struts August 19th Victory Lounge, Edmonton August 20th the Sharktank, Edmonton (AA) Columbus June 30th New City, Edmonton July 30th Starlight Room, Edmonton (EP release with guest Junior Bloomsday) Junior Bloomsday July 9th Underground 10249 - 97 street, Edmonton (All Ages with Cadence Weapon and Dietzche V & the Abominable Snowman) June 6, 2005 The Vertical Struts'June10 performance at the Mod Club at Halo is cancelled as the band is turning their attention to recording their new record. Vertical Struts International Fan Club shirts will be available at Blackbyrd Myoozik on Whyte. There's a limited amount of small and medium sizes, and they’ll be available for a little more than $20 each. May 26, 2005 The Vertical Struts have just returned home from their spring western Canadian tour with pals Fake Cops. Unfortunately, the road trip was marred by some jerk in Vancouver's decision to rip off the band's van. In addition to the ride, the thief also made off with a significant quantity of gear and merch. The Struts lost two guitars, an amp, 100 7" records and all of their merch. The Fake Cops lost much much more. You can see a full list of the stolen items at www.verticalstruts.com/stolen. If you have information leading to the recovery of any of the purloined gear and the arrest and/or junk punching of the perpetrator, contact Fake Cops through Ian Russell at polisfalsos@fakecops.com(403) 244-7280 or (403) 969-3253 Calgary, Alberta, Canada. and the Vertical Struts through Raymond Biesinger at raymond@fifteen.ca (780) 433-4560. Worry not, though, for the Struts' Friday, June 10 engagement at the Mod Club at Halo (10538 Jasper Avenue) is still a go. To help cover the costs of replacing the lost gear, the Struts will be selling 22 limited edition "Vertical Struts International Fan Club" shirts and membership cards at $20 a pop. The rave-up starts at 10 p.m. In other news, Junior Bloomsday has secured a slot opening for indie faves and generally mopey characters Xiu Xiu on Saturday, June 18 at the Freemasons Hall (10318 100 Avenue). No secret handshakes required. May 12, 2005 The Vertical Struts hit the road for the first of their two summer tours. You can check them out: 13 May @ the Bassment, Saskatoon w. Submission Hold, Billy and the Lost Boys, Fury & the Mouse (AA) 19 May @ Broken City, Calgary w. Fake Cops 20 May @ Pat's, Vancouver w. Fake Cops, Ladyhawk, Joel & the Last of the Neighbours 21 May @ Logan's, Victoria w. Fake Cops, Wooly Mammoth 10 June @ Mod Club at Halo, Edmonton April 28, 2005 The Vertical Struts All Ages show with the Doers, Run Chico Run, All Purpose Voltage Heroes and Mark Birtles Project on April 28th has been moved to the Sharktank. Columbus is also playing in Calgary April 29 For U of C and SAIT grads at at the Varsity Hall. Columbus will be playing Seedy's May 7th with Albertasupergroup Fosters and McGarvey. Seedy's is closing May 14th so this will be one of your last chances to support this great venue. We are most excited to announce that Columbus will be opening for New York art rockers The Fever June 30th at New City. April 9, 2005 We at Pop Echo are big believers in finding the common ground between the aloofness of art and the populism of pop, so when Junior Bloomsday wormed his way into our eardrums, we took notice right away. The pulsing drum machine beats, swooping synths and fuzzed-out guitar squall skirt the boundaries of noise, but are reeled in by sharp pop hooks and inescapable melodies. Brainy, not pretentious. Danceable, but not vacuous. We were intrigued. And, after watching Junior Bloomsday turn in a stellar debut performance at the Victory Lounge in March, we were sold. To make a long story short, we’re very excited to welcome Junior Bloomsday to the Pop Echo Records roster. We’re also stoked that Mr. Graham Lessard has agreed to produce Junior’s first effort for Pop Echo. Look for the product of that session this fall. And don’t forget to watch this space for news and updates. April 2, 2005 Hi there. We're very busy putting the finishing touches on Columbus's debut EP. In the meantime, those shaggy-haired popsters are playing an all ages show on April 9 at Eco City (9524 Jasper Avenue) with The Rocky Fortune (formerly Sons of Daughters), A Priori and