Drive to the Coast Photo Zine
Drive to the Coast is a photo zine compiled by Aimee Power. There's something special brewing in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island these days. This column is an attempt to take a snapshot of what's going down and to try to take its pulse. Whenever good things are happening in Charlottetown Aimee will be there to document it.

These days Aimee can be seen with camera inhand around the streets of Charlottetown, though she has spent time throughout the country. She let me put on a show at her house a few years ago for The Death Set from Baltimore and Windom Earle. We filled the basement to the brim and we danced all night. It turned out to be one of the best shows of my life. Aimee has a kitty named Battle Cat & another kitty named Gideon. You can contact Aimee by sending an email to missaimee at gmail.com.

Windom Earle & Jenocide from Alibi November 2010
After seeing Windom Earle about one million times I am just as enthused to go to their show, dance like a jerkwad and take photos. Girl party #1 Jenocide opened the show and just killed everyone in the room. She amped everyone up to whatever number is the highest to amp up to and got everyone dancing and ready for the party. I also think I may follow her cue on wearing sunglasses at shows because it really pulls together an outfit of tights and jewelry. I missed the second band as I was really into creating my own band for about an hour that evening, but became adequately liquored for the Windom Earle Party Machine. Lots of favourites, some karaoke and then some Jeff Coll Five craziness that brought me back to going to Brennan's at age 18 (sorry). I yelled into a microphone that doesn't work and I was just as happy with that. I certainly did not need a working microphone to scream "Since U been Gone". Overall, I am beyond glad that Alibi exists and that it has such a good thing going right now. Book your shit there, just do it.

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Halifax Pop Explosion 2010 October 2010
I have a bad habit of being a festival over-planner. I print off schedules, I buy a new highlighter, I make mixes of potential bands I want to see. Generally I get way too amped up and way too invested really far in advance. I did some of these rituals this year but I generally tried to take it easy. That being said, I saw A PRETTY GOOD amount of stuff.

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Hannah Georgas from Baba's November 2010
Hannah Georgas is a name that keeps popping up everything I look. I hesitated on checking her out as I felt my Zooey Deschanel-esque indie rock girl quota was filled but I made room for one more on that rainy Friday night. This Baba's show in Charlottetown turned me from admirer to fan. She used simple yet kicky beats for her anthems about fledgling love and dance floor etiquette and managed to reel in all the crazy fans that night.. Hannah Georgas is another artist who is helping us change the definition of 'pop star' and thank goodness for that.

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Solid Rock Cafe October 2010
On Tuesday night I got to hang out with a pile of kids, at a show, in a church basement. The room smelled like fresh baked cookies and was covered in christmas lights and lamps that could be found in your grandmother's house. I loved it. Solid Rock Cafe is the place, and they aim to please - even on a school night.

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Fuck The Facts from Baba's August 2010
I'll be honest and say that I listen to very little heavy music. I veer towards the sweet and poppy most days. But I've been seeing Fuck the Facts since I was a teenager and felt the need for some sweaty nostalgia. There was a decent crowd for a Monday night in Charlottetown and everyone wanted to get messy. The show was loud and crazy and the pregnant lead singer kicked more ass than anyone. I walked home with some ringing ears but it was all worth it.

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Hollerado & Said the Whale from Hunter's April 14.10
On April 14th I was able to see two bands that have been getting lots of hype these days: Hollerado and Said the Whale. I admit, I listen to piles of radio when I'm driving and I've heard Hollerado yell out that "Juliet" song a few times. Based on that, I kind of assumed I'd hate them! Maybe that sounds mean, but most new music played on KRock just isn't my scene, to put it nicely. But I was pleasantly surprised to see their upbeat attitude and great appreciation for our lil' town. Even though they did call one of our local favourites "Boxcar the Horse", I forgave them.

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East Coast Music Awards from Cape Breton March 06.10
My last day at ECMA's was a tired one. I was pretty exhausted from earlier shenanigans but had to get through one more night. The weather was great in Sydney and I had a bottle of wine in my shady hotel room. First stop of the evening was Governor's Pub. The Forward Music Showcase was on the bill for the evening and as a former resident of Fredericton, I was stoked. Force Fields were first and I hadn't seen them since 2007? 2008? Regardless, I haven't seen them since they were known as the ever controversial "The Fussy Part". I was happy to see they were just as great as I remembered.

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East Coast Music Awards from Cape Breton March 05.10
If you ask me what my favourite East Coast band is, the answer is DOG DAY. It took me awhile to grow into this band, but through and through every single thing they've put out, and every show they've put on just blows me away. I went to the Sydney Curling Club for a non-ECMA event and it was an unforgettable night. Why? -"Everyone in Cars" is your new favourite band. -Free curling lessons. -Buckets of beer. -The Grass is the epitome of STAGE PRESENCE. Who knew curling clubs were so great?

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East Coast Music Awards from Cape Breton March 04.10
I will tell you, that getting your Cape Breton face on is a lot of hard work during ECMA weekend. It involves eating very little, drinking very much and rocking a mid-afternoon nap to keep it all in. We arrived Thursday afternoon and checked into a questionable hotel. The first show of our weekend was a Cape Breton Music Industry Cooperative showcase. It happened at Smooth Herman's which had a very Myron's-esque vibe. Take that as you wish, I guess. When I walked in I heard my first dose of fiddle music! Cape Breton does not disappoint when it comes to celtic tunes! Colin Grant was making the crowd go crazy with his insanely quick fiddle playing, and I have to admit that I was impressed. People were stepdancing...what?!

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New Royalty from Baba's January 21.10
These young pups never fail to entertain me. New Royalty are the happiest kids on Prince Edward Island and I am proud to have had their very first show (i think?) in my basement in 2007. Since that night, they've gained more confidence and creativity, and I feel so thrilled as to how they've grown. Okay, I sound like a dorky mom, but all I want is for these guys to keep playing shows so I can keep attending. Not so much to ask, I don't think.

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Cold Warps from The House of Rock January 30.10
Their quickie EP has a poppy, vintage quality, but these boys are hopefully just getting started. Cold Warps recently made a stop into the JUNNKTANK house party at the House of Rock in Charlottetown. I arrived late to the show, but got there just in time to shimmy around a Kent Street living room and sing along to their catchy sound. Come back and play again soon? Please?

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English Words from Hunters January 15.10
The band we once lovingly called "Smothered in Hugs" is under a new name, and they are celebrating. This Friday night party was one to remember. They gave out an EP to each smiling fan just to remind them that English Words were here to stay.

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BA & Jimmie from The Capital November 21.09
Back when I lived in Fredericton, I took that sucker everywhere, including to shows at the Capital. The room is bright and those brick walls make a great backdrop. I felt like a big dork taking band photos there with my lil' camera but I am glad I have those photos to look back on. My life was great and carefree back then, and I enjoy reminiscing with those (seemingly) ancient photos. November 21st was the first time I had been in Fredericton since early 2008 and I was excited to see the old friends in the old places. We gathered at The Capital and were able to see two Sappyfest favourites: Shotgun Jimmie and BA Johnston. I've seen their antics before, but it didn't make the show any less entertaining. The crowd was explosive and by the end of the night, they were downright crazy. At one point a girl asked for her bra back after she had thrown it up onto the stage, and countless men were throwing their t-shirts at BA. It was a zany night in Fredericton.

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Wax Mannequin & Rae Spoon from Baba's November 19.09
The headliner for a dark and rainy night at Baba's Lounge was no other than the gruff (yet sweet) Wax Mannequin. One of the many men I love in Hamilton, he delivers every song with a boyish smirk. He is fascinating to watch. Joining him on this evening was Calgary native Rae Spoon, who I ADORED. I had missed him on several occasions in the past, but that night I spent my last dollars on "superioryouareinferior". We howled along with "We Become Our Own Wolves" and from then on I would make it a point to never miss Rae again. I guess I felt a bit of a connection with his songs concerning Calgary landmarks, and some general distaste for how that City can make you feel like an outsider. Regardless, it all worked for me.

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Ohbijou from Baba's October 22.09
I am a new fan of Ohbijou. Although I've heard the name pop up in blogs and reviews over the past few years, my Sappyfest experience was my first time getting connected with this lovely troupe. We huddled behind the stage in Sackville this past August, but this October, Ohbijou were front and centre at the best little bar in Charlottetown. I hate that I didn't arrive early enough to squeeze up front for The Acorn, but the whole show was worth any discomfort I felt they smiled through most of their set, which gave off an infectious happiness to the entire crowd. Although I was too squished to dance, I tapped my foot to the harmonies and was able to see what the hype was about. Even with "Beacons" being a great album, it does not compare to the warmth and community you feel when seeing this band.

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North Lakes from Baba's October 13.09
I decided that The North Lakes and I are new friends. Our friendship started when I got to see them open up for Rah Rah at Baba's on a Tuesday night. And like all new relationships, it was shy and optimistic at first. Once their folkier side started to show, I felt I was really getting to know them and what they were all about. Near the end of their set, I felt invested in their playful rock songs and would assuredly buy an EP once it is available. I find it great seeing a new PEI band. I feel pride and pleasure in getting to know them and excitement over their progress and success. Here's hoping The North Lakes receive both.

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Rah Rah from Hunter's October 07.09
Their live show is even better than the album. It's the type of show where you don't have to be embarrassed about screaming the words along with them. I love yelling "In Reginaaaaaa, Saskastchewaaaaaan" in unison with these lovely folks during their song "Duet for Emmylou and The Grievous Angel". Shouting geographical locations reminds me of seeing the Weakerthans, and that is a giddy, giddy feeling. With all of this choral fun, there is also lots of heart, soul and upbeat fun that comes with their music and that's what makes me happy to be labeled a "Rah Rah fan".

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Mount Eerie from Ampersand August 03.09
Mount Eerie stopped by the ever rad Cafe Ampersand in downtown Charlottetown last month and our very own Aimee Power was there to snap a few photos and let us know what she thought. "It was a dark night at Ampersand when Mount Eerie took the singin' chair and the crowd was truly appreciative of every request that came out. Mount Eerie played both I Felt Your Shape and The Moon, which was incredible. . We all sat in the dim light and it felt like we were all buds. I had fun in thinking about how jealous all of the Saturday night Sappy goers would be if they saw this. The ones who had to sit at the back of the Vogue Theatre in that heat, just to get a glimpse at Phil. Whereas we had him within arm's reach. Oh, Charlottetown."

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Sunday from Sappyfest 4 August 02.09
Our car crew was heading back late that evening, but a little birdy tipped us off and we were told that the Constantines were playing a secret show at George's Roadhouse. We get there nice and early and attempted to secure one of the best spots in the joint. We waited patiently and the rumours were true! And it was all Neil Young covers! The Cons were joined on stage by Ladyhawk guitarist and miss Simone yet again. They danced, sung and everyone took a turn belting out their favourite Neil song. We danced as much as our tiny confines allowed but eventually got shoved out of the way by dumb bitches and pushy photographers so we took our happiness to the parking lot. They ended the night with "Keep on Rockin' in the Free World" and we all felt awesome to have just been Sappy'd.

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Saturday from Sappyfest 4 August 01.09
Saturday was a big day - main stage music, zine fair, craft fair, Uncle Larry's music... phew. BA Johnston threw pool inflatables into the crowd, some drunk dude gave him a Rev and he ended the night with the Littlest Hobo theme song. After that insanity, the D'urbervilles were up next and they kept me interested in dancing for the rest of the night. I found their music simple and likeable, in the best way possible of course. Dancing to them just came so easy.

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Friday Night from Sappyfest 4 July 31.09
I ended my night at the bar show at Uncle Larry's. Although the bar itself looked like the stock market exchange, the venue was the perfect refuge from the rain. I got there just in time to see one of my favourites - Windom Earle. They all adorned underwear, but were tastefully covered up in ponchos. The karaoke was loud and exciting, and screaming "Living on a Prayer" never felt so good. The music ended and I headed back to my tent to sleep in a giant puddle. I was wet, but happy..

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The Sleepless Nights from Evolve July 18.09
Halifax band Sleepless Nights were the big closer on my mega-music weekend in the backwoods of Antigonish. Like Share, these guys are apart of the Forward Music Group and have been making fans all across Canada with their avid touring schedule and acclaimed album Turn Into Vapour. They get glowing reviews from blogs everywhere, and I just counted on my fingers and it seems I've seen them...ten times.

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The Hidden Cameras from Baba's July 24.09
I waited in line for what seemed like forever, and I decided to cut all loyalty and decency to my friends and other folks waiting to try to get in there. It eventually happened and I pushed my heart to the front stage and listened on. I didn't capture much, as I felt I was in such a happy daze. Everyone was having so much fun - even the ampersand kids (cafeampersand.blogspot.com) were all dressed as animals! I left feeling complete, happy and hoped my friends weren't mad that I pushed past them at the door.

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Share from Evolve July 18.09
In late 2005, I wandered into the Underground Cafe(RIP) in Fredericton and heard a ukulele as I entered the room. Andrew Sisk was the one strumming away and it was interesting enough that I picked up a copy of "Ukulele Tragic" to listen to on my walk home. The track "Soil" had me pretty hooked so I kept my eye out for other Share performances while I lived in Fredericton. . During my Evolve weekend, Andrew was flying solo and I was not disappointed. Although he had the first slot of the day on Saturday, he still drew lots of people to the stage with his one man show. The songs were lovely, as was my company.

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Rich Aucoin from Evolve July 17.09
This year was my third Evolve and I was happy to see lots more local bands being added to the bill that didn't fall within the "jam band" category. One of which was Rich Aucoin. I had first witnessed one of his sets last summer during the first HFF and was pretty blown away by the one rockin' dude. I wasn't really sure how he would translate from living room show to a big stage, but my expectations were surpassed tenfold.

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Whale Tooth from Baba's July 09.09
This Thursday night at Babas was one of those instances where I had some friends drag me to come out and have some wine with them, I refused, refused, refused but then was finally persuaded. I was delighted when I ran into band Whale Tooth (from Toronto) playing as I walked up those stairs. The lead singer (Elise Legrow) was so fun to watch and her voice had a lot more soul than the many of other indie rock bands that I usually see.

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Greenbelt Collective from Baba's June 30.09
The west coast came and conquered Baba's on Tuesday night with Vancouver's the Greenbelt Collective. They sang their hearts out and everyone felt it. The stage was more packed than I had ever seen and everyone climbed aboard like it was our show, and not just theirs. We sang, cheered and danced until closing time.

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