Rob Lemon: Into the Wilderness

--taken from: The Coast (read more here)

Longtime Halifax music scene staple Rob Lemon plays music for the love of it.

by Adria Young

He remembers Sloan's Smeared CD release show at Club Flamingo, he's seen country legend John Prine seven times and he's witnessed the industry shift from label to independent. In terms of making his own music, he says "the straw that broke the camel's back" was the first Blackpool show he attended, one of Halifax's most popular '90s rock bands: "That's when I realized I wanted to stay in this town and play music and that's all I wanted to do."

--taken from: The Coast (read more here)

Dearly Beloved's ‘Hawk vs. Pigeon’ Reissued for UK Release

--taken from: Altsounds (read more here)

by Jack Stovin

Originally released May 22, 2012 in Canada, Hawk vs. Pigeon is the latest buzz bomb from bass masher Rob Higgins and fellow co-vocalist Niva Chow who, together, form Dearly Beloved. Now it’s being reissued especially for the UK, featuring completely new album artwork, an inspired and fresh re-sequencing of the album and a previously un-released bonus collaboration called “Never Tell The Truth” with Patrick Pentland of Sloan.

--taken from: Altsounds (read more here)

Bootleggin’ It

--taken from: NOW Toronto

Just in time for the holidays, Sloan are putting out another record. Actually, it’s an audience-captured bootleg from a Tokyo concert originally recorded in January 2002 when the band was touring their Pretty Together album. The Halifax-bred shillers of collectables have been busy: this is the third instalment of their bootleg vinyl series. There are just 500 copies, pressed on white-Japanese-flag vinyl. Need further enticements? The recording includes a rare performance by Patrick Pentland on drums, and Chris Murphy and Andrew Scott playing a duo version of The Life Of A Working Girl. It went on sale November 20, so hurry over to sloanmusic.com before it’s too late.

--taken from: NOW Toronto

Sloan Look Back to 2002 with Japanese Live Album

--taken from: exclaim!

by Gregory Adams

Sloan are getting back to the bootlegging biz, or rather, they will soon be treating a fan-recorded Japanese concert to a limited-edition vinyl release.

The band have revealed that they will press up Tokyo Japan 2002 in a one-time pressing of 500 copies, which go on sale this Wednesday (November 20) at noon EST. The recording had been captured by an audience member at Tokyo's Club Quattro on January 16, 2002, while Sloan were out on the road supporting their sixth LP, Pretty Together.

"It's an LP that, at the time, was thought to be a bit slick sounding, perhaps in relation to records like One Chord to Another or Navy Blues," guitarist Jay Ferguson said in a statement, though adding of the group's live show, "If that's a concern, then I would dare say this loud recording from the floor strips a bit of the polish off compared to the studio counterparts."

The set features era-specific songs like the Wurlitzer-led "Life of a Working Girl," "Dreaming of You" and "Pick It Up and Dial It," as well as an appropriately timed performance of the album's Japanese-only bonus cut "Had Enough," which found guitarist Patrick Pentland hitting the kit.

The LP comes on what Sloan calls "pure white Japanese flag vinyl" and will be housed in "a '70s-style heavy-stock white jacket with a risographed wrap around outer sleeve." Also included is a reproduction of a fan letter and a download code including four extra tracks ("Deeper Than Beauty," "The Lines You Amend," "People of the Sky" and "Money City Maniacs") that didn't fit onto the LP.

As an audience recording, Ferguson admits that Tokyo Japan 2002 isn't a super hi-fi experience but noted that "it won't distract from enjoying the rocking proceedings."

Come Wednesday, you can pick up the set over here. In the meantime, you can stream the live album on the group's website and download its "I Love a Long Goodbye" in the widget down below.

--taken from: exclaim!

Sloan's Chris Murphy hosts My Playlist

--taken from: CBC music (listen to the playlist here)

by Carole Warren

Sloan fans are going to be very happy with our latest My Playlist. It features Sloan bassist, major songwriter and essentially the guy who keeps it all together — Chris Murphy.

Following a loosely woven theme of "Canadian bands he loves," Murphy punctuates his choices with some great stories, including one where he was required to kiss the ring of the lead singer for a famous Canadian '70s rock band (I kid you not). Another has his father driving through a raging storm to attend a Joni Mitchell concert (Mitchell being the only anomaly to the band theme).

It makes sense that Murphy loves bands. The story of Sloan itself begins near the salty harbour of Halifax in the early '90s, which was literally exploding with musical possibilities. Kids still loved punk, and grunge was about to hit hard. Naturally, like any good Halifax boy, Chris Murphy found some friends and formed a band. Twenty years later, that band is still together with all the original members.

Murphy is more than a little proud of that, and admits that it takes a fair bit of effort and energy to keep things going, the vagaries of the music business — and life — being what they are. So he comes by his love and understanding of bands from a unique vantage point.

Not surprisingly, Murphy has a particular fondness for bands that have some history behind them: the Guess Who, April Wine and Rush. But bands that didn't survive 20 years are also on his list, including fellow Haligonians Jellyfish Babies and Thrush Hermit, and Montreal's the Nils and Local Rabbits.

If you're interested in learning more about what makes Murphy tick musically, his My Playlist show offers real insight.

Chris Murphy's playlist

1. "8:15," the Guess Who
2. "Car on a Hill," Joni Mitchell
3. "I Like to Rock," April Wine
4. "Subdivisions," Rush
5. "It Doesn't Really Matter," Platinum Blonde
6. "Fountains," the Nils
7. "Messiah," Jellyfish Babies
8. "All Dressed Up," Thrush Hermit
9. "Play On," Local Rabbits

--taken from: CBC music (listen to the playlist here)

Sloan rocks St. Clair College Capitol Theatre, see photos

--taken from: Chatham-Kent Music News (see more photos here)

by Aaron

Canadian rockers Sloan rocked the St. Clair College Capitol Theatre in Chatham last night!

Here are our photos!

--taken from: Chatham-Kent Music News (see more photos here)

Southwestern Ontario Music Portal

The @SWOMP_CA crew meeting @Sloanmusic at the @ChtmCapitolThtr #ckont pic.twitter.com/ZcQpQJNA9M
— SWOMP (@SWOMP_CA) October 19, 2013

Sloan ready to rock the Capitol

--taken from: The Chatham Daily News

by Trevor Terfloth

Two decades and numerous awards later, Sloan is showing no signs of slowing down.

The Canadian rock band, which hails from the East Coast, will play the St. Clair College Capitol Theatre on Saturday.

Sloan, who have played such shows as Rockstock in Chatham in past years, are known for a long list of hits including Underwhelmed, Money City Maniacs, If It Feels Good Do It and Believe in Me.

The band consists of guitarists Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson, bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Andrew Scott, all showcasing their lead vocal talents throughout their career.

They recently released a 7" single of two original songs, as well as a digital album featuring covers of 12 of their favourite hardcore songs from their youth.

--taken from: The Chatham Daily News

Sloan getting ready to rock the St. Clair College Capitol Theatre

--taken from: Chatham-Kent Music News

by Aaron

Sloan is four distinct songwriting voices — guitarists Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson, bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Andrew Scott — that nonetheless form a cohesive collective. Long-time Toronto scenesters who will always call Halifax home. The group will play the St. Clair College Capitol Theatre on Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 8:00 pm. Tickets are only $25 (+ h.f.) and are available by calling 519-354-8338 or online at http://www.stclaircollegecapitoltheatre.com/.

Sloan have always cited the music and aesthetic of the hardcore punk movement as a major inspiration for their independent, DIY approach to making their music and art. Today, they are happy to release a 7″ single of two original songs, plus a digital album featuring covers of 12 of their favourite hardcore songs from their youth.

Sloan was one of the most successful Canadian bands of the ’90s, which was both a blessing and a curse. While they were well known in their homeland, where their Beatlesque power pop became a radio staple, they had a difficult time breaking into the American market, especially after their label, DGC, decided not to market their hooky pop in the wake of grunge. After spending several years fighting the label, and nearly breaking up, Sloan re-emerged in 1996 with One Chord to Another, a record that became an instant success in Canada and a critical sensation in the U.S. upon its American release in 1997, establishing the group as one of the leaders of the new wave of power pop groups in the late ’90s.

Andrew Scott (drums), Chris Murphy (bass, vocals), Patrick Pentland (guitar, vocals), and Jay Ferguson (guitar, vocals) formed Sloan in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1991. Ferguson and Murphy had previously played in the local band Kearney Lake Rd., a group inspired by underground American bands like R.E.M. and the Minutemen. Scott and Pentland also played in various local bands, but the group didn’t come together until Murphy and Scott met each other while studying at the Nova Scotia School of Art and Design. The group debuted in the spring of 1991, and within a few months, their feedback-laden live shows had gained a sizable audience. By the end of the year, their first recording, “Underwhelmed,” appeared on the local Halifax compilation Hear & Now. Early in 1992, they released the Peppermint EP on their own Murderecords, and by the summer, they had signed with DGC. Sloan’s debut album, Smeared, a record where Sonic Youth met Beatlesque pop, appeared in October in Canada and in January 1993 in America, and it was greeted with positive reviews. While the band had a gold album in Canada, the good press didn’t translate to sales in the U.S., even as the group supported the Lemonheads and fIREHOSE at several concerts. Nevertheless, the domestic success of Smeared sparked a brief period of interest in “the Halifax scene,” with groups like Eric’s Trip, Thrush Hermit, the Hardship Post, and Jale all benefiting from the exposure.

For their second album, 1994′s Twice Removed, Sloan simplified their sound considerably, concentrating on melodic, hook-laden power pop. DGC wanted the album to be noisier, yet the band won its fight to keep it bright and melodic. Nevertheless, DGC failed to promote the album upon its release, especially in America, even in the wake of good reviews and strong Canadian sales. The band toured relentlessly to support Twice Removed; the record was named “The Best Canadian Album of All Time” in a poll by Chart! magazine, and Spin called it one of the “Best Albums You Didn’t Hear This Year,” but DGC was not giving the band much support. By the end of the year, the group decided to cancel their remaining shows in the new year and decide whether they wanted to pursue a career.

Sloan re-emerged in the summer of 1995, playing a handful of concerts and releasing a single, “Same Old Flame,” on Murderecords. During their hiatus, the members pursued various side projects, with Scott forming the Maker’s Mark and playing in the Sadies, while Murphy drummed for the Super Friendz; Pentland wrote a handful of songs, and Ferguson worked at Murderecords and managed the Inbreds, as well as co-producing a record by the Local Rabbits. Toward late summer, Sloan decided they wanted to continue as a band, and that winter they recorded One Chord to Another, a record that expanded the power pop approach of Twice Removed on a small budget. Although its origins were modest, the album was a huge Canadian hit upon its June 1996 release.

After much negotiation, Sloan signed with the fledgling EMI subsidiary Enclave in early 1997, and One Chord to Another was finally released in the U.S. in the spring of 1997 to overwhelmingly positive reviews. Navy Blues followed a year later. A double live album, 4 Nights at the Palais Royale was released by Murderecords in 1999, as was a new studio effort, Between the Bridges. Pretty Together arrived in 2001, followed by Action Pact in 2003. The career retrospective A Sides Win: Singles 1992-2005 was released in the spring of 2005. The following year, Sloan released their eighth full-length record, the self-recorded Never Hear the End of It — which featured songs from all four members — on Murderecords in Canada, while Yep Roc issued it in the U.S.

--taken from: Chatham-Kent Music News

Sloan at RBC Theatre

--taken from: Living Arts Centre

Long-time Toronto scenesters Sloan has four distinct song writing voices that form a cohesive collective who have been making music for over twenty years. These Muchmusic and rock-radio regulars will be performing hits and fan favourites from their first ten albums.

The members of Sloan, guitarists Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson, bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Andrew Scott are Muchmusic and rock-radio regulars who, via their own murderecords label, maintain strong ties to their indie roots. These Money-city maniacs who have a soft spot for sweet sugar tunes and are known as music vets who, continue to challenge themselves with each record.

Throughout their 20-year tenure Sloan has released 10 LPS, two EPs, a live album, a "best of" collection and no less than thirty singles. Recognized for such hits as The Good in Everyone, The Other Man, Underwhelmed, The Rest of My Life and If It Feels Good Do It. The band is also known for their sharing of songwriting from each member of the group and their unaltered line-up throughout their career.

--taken from: Living Arts Centre

Choir! Choir! Choir! Brings Pop to the People

--taken from: The Forward (read more here)

by Michael Kaminer

Have any Toronto celebrities come to a C! C! C!? Have you been surprised by any types of people who’ve come, like a biker who ended up singing Enya?

Our friend Chris Murphy from the band Sloan comes out semi-regularly but we can’t think of any bizarre occurrences!

--taken from: The Forward (read more here)

The Sons at Oktoberfest

--taken from: CNN iReport

by CBagpipes (Bethany Bisaillion)

The band of the Sons of Scotland were pleased to take part in the 5th annual Oktoberfest held by Beau's Brewery at the Vankleek Hill Fairgrounds on October 4 & 5 outside Ottawa, Canada. Beau's Brewery did a fantastic job organizing a huge event that was a sell out - great weather, fantastic food and beer, and a musical lineup that was just amazing - The Mahones, Richard Aucoin, comedian Elivra Kurtz, and Sloan hit the stage on Saturday and the crowd was so appreciative - it was standing room only at the stage - what a grand day! Hats off to Beau's for doing such a great job.

--taken from: CNN iReport

Calling All Money City Maniacs!

--taken from: 570 News (listen to the podcast here)

by Care Finch

For two+ decades, Canadian fans have fallen in love with indie rockers, Sloan.

The four piece comprised of songwriters has consistently delivered album after album of chart-topping alt rock hits since their debut release Peppermint in 1992.

I spoke with Jay Ferguson (rhythm guitar) about Sloan returning to Kitchener (as he jokingly says for the “fortieth time”).

Sloan has performed in KW a lot! Tell me about coming back to the Region.

We’ve had great shows in Kitchener and Waterloo over the years, so hopefully it will be on par with the previous. I have to keep a real count some day!

What can fans expect from this particular show?

I think when you play a show you have to so some songs that people know. We’ll play some songs people haven’t heard before, but also standards that people would know. We’re not in the middle of promoting a new album, so it’ll be a little different. We’ll be doing two sets and it’ll be fun.

Sloan has had a career spanning two decades. What do you think is the secret to longevity?

We had hoped or envisioned this, but how can you predict that sort of thing. I’m glad it happened in the first place, but you can’t imagine that it’s going to happen that long. Hopefully will continue to go as long as we can!

With our band, I think it’s an outlet for everybody. Everybody sings and writes, so there’s not one disgruntled member who wants to go solo. We all get to sing and write songs, but we split the money four ways, so nobody’s in a different boat. We can all stick together.

Sloan releases music on vinyl, and lately, it would seem, there’s been a bigger demand. Have you seen this change?

It’s gone in ebbs and flows. I don’t know if it’s a retro thing, but I think people like to own something tangible. CDs are not always that exciting to own; I think vinyl made sort of a comeback when there was a crack in the pavement as people starting purchasing digital files for their computers.

An LP seems more tangible than a CD. There’s more room for cool graphics and designing album covers is fun for bands. Sometimes when we’d release stuff in the 90’s it was harder to sell off a run, but it does seem to sell quicker now.

How does Social Media make an impact for Sloan?

You have fans that are going to follow you no matter what, but I think a Twitter, Facebook and an email mailing list are crucial. I think it’s empowering to bands. For us, we have a history and this is a way for us to keep our fan base that already exists; we can do that through social media. It puts more power back into the bands’ hands.

Where does Jay Ferguson get inspiration to write music?

Often listening to other bands, or another songwriter. You’re inspired by the way they did it or their structure. I’m always thinking about songs, so if someone says a funny quote I’ll try to remember that for when I get home so I can write it down. It comes from a bunch of different places.

What’s next for Sloan?

We’re doing some theatre-style shows in Southern Ontario over the next few weekends. We’re in the middle of making a new album, which will hopefully come out in the spring of next year. We did a bunch of summer shows, but also, in tandem, making a new album.

You’re true indie artists at heart. What’s your advice to new bands?

I think it’s probably par for the course, but do as much on your own. Whether it’s doing your own recordings, learning to set up your own shows, advertising or even making your own tee shirts, learn about the process and learn about being a band and a band that tours. Do as much on your own that you can before you start hiring people to do that for you. I think that’s the key. It also helps you not get ripped off or surprised. You learn how hard or easy some things are.

Do you have a message for fans who are coming to see this show?

I can’t wait to see you all for the fortieth time! We always have awesome shows there, so I’m really looking forward to it!

--taken from: 570 News (listen to the podcast here)

Sloan's latest tour makes stop at LAC

--taken from: The Mississauga News

by Jason Spencer

Canadian indie stalwarts Sloan are about to add touring to their already busy schedules of fatherhood and recording their new album.

The four-piece will hit nine cities across Ontario this month, stopping at the Living Arts Centre Oct. 17.

Bassist and vocalist Chris Murphy said the string of concerts will be an appetizer to hold fans over until their new album is complete.

"It will be more like a greatest hits show," he said. "We'll play an overview, or as many recognizable songs as we have."

And the band, rounded out by Patrick Pentland, Jay Ferguson and Andrew Scott, certainly has an impressive back catalogue to dip into, ranging from the old school gems Twice Removed and One Chord to Another to the more recent albums such as Action Pact and Never Hear the End of It.

Formed in Halifax, and currently residing in Toronto, Sloan has been banging out infectious pop tunes with the same lineup for over 20 years.

Murphy admits that, naturally, there's been "personal differences and chasms" throughout their duration, but it's the principles that the band is built upon that have held them together.

"We've got a democratic schtick…we're founded in fairness," said Murphy. "We split all the money and credit equally."

Referring to how all four members are known for alternating instruments and songwriting duties, he added, "It's a chance for everyone to contribute artistically."

That equal division of labour does lead to "compilation-sounding records," but it's a tone that defines them.

"We like those juxtapositions — it speaks to the way that we're run."

Their collective love of 1980s' hardcore punk and its do-it-yourself ethos is another tie that binds the band.

Last spring, Sloan paid homage to the era of Minor Threat and Black Flag by releasing a limited seven-inch album on the band's own long-standing label, Murder Records.

"Musically, it's outside of what we do — it was freeing and fun," Murphy said of the experience.

The LAC's RBC Theatre will not be ringing with the fury of the Reagan years come Oct. 17, as Murphy plans on sticking to the Sloan discography for the concert.

Although, he does wish their yet-to-be-titled studio album was finished, so they could share it with the fans, but even rock stars have responsibilities.

"We should have (the album) done by now, (but) we all have families, so we take care of them and spend time with them, especially when you're on the road on the weekends," he said.

Laughing, he continued, "When I come home, I always get the rat eye if I go right into the studio…as dads, we can do like three-hour days."

--taken from: The Mississauga News

Sloan going strong after two decades

--taken from: Brantford Expositor

by Michelle Ruby

In 1991, Jay Ferguson, Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland and Andrew Scott formed Sloan in Halifax.

In those days, their sound had a lot in common with the guitar-heavy art rock of bands including Sonic Youth and My Bloody Valentine.

Sloan’s first record, the Peppermint EP, introduced the world to Underwhelmed, a song that prompted listeners to consider the importance of grammar and spelling in the formation of a successful relationship.

Sloan, instrumental in creating Canada’s current music scene, will perform at the Sanderson Centre on Friday, Oct. 18.

“Ten records,” Pentland said in a news release of the band’s discography. “I don’t think that’s enough. I think we’ll do some more.”

With Sloan’s own Murderecords label at its heart, Canada’s East Coast become one of the most vibrant music scenes of the ‘90s. Bands including Eric’s Trip, Super Friendz, Hardship Post and Thrust Hermit released singles on Murderecords before being snapped up by American labels.

With their second album, Twice Removed, Sloan started showing the depth of their musical influences, moving away from the big guitar sound of their early days.

Perhaps more important than critical acclaim is the loyal audience that Sloan has accrued over the years. In the ‘90s, when the Internet was picking up steam, Sloan’s audience found a home in Sloan Net, a forum where all things Sloan-related were discussed.

The band’s newest album, 2011’s The Double Cross, spans genres and styles, from gentle, acoustic ballads to some of the most up-tempo rock songs they’ve ever written.

“I’m happy we’ve been able to continue making strong records that I really like this far into our career,” said Ferguson.

--taken from: Brantford Expositor

An Intimate Night with Sloan

--taken from: The Music Express (see more pictures here)

written by Keith McTaggart
photos by Charles Hope

The audience may have been a small one but they made up for it in adoration for the 5 man crew of Sloan. The cross between a school gymnasium and a concert theatre of The Bragg Creek Centre made for a casual and inviting atmosphere. The band crossed the auditorium floor to the stage as the crowd chanted SLO-an! It reminded one of a European football crowd. After bassist Chris Murphy pointed out the sizable gap between the stage and the first row of chairs, the Sloan diehards made it disappear instantly.

After 22 years in service, and an average age of 44, Sloan still knows how to kick out the jams. There is a surprising rawness to this group that age has not burnished. They mean what they say and they say what they mean. They are real and unpretentious onstage.

Drummer Andrew Scott’s powerful, fluid and dynamic drumming ensured the energy never lagged. He made the seductive champagne sparkle Ludwig drum kit sound like a song in itself. As one of the four writers for the group, Scott traded places with Murphy on a couple of occasions to take lead vocal and guitar, soundly stepping into the role of front man.

Murphy’s drumming is musical and passionate, giving exactly what the song requires. A highly engaging front man and principle writer, he handles his Fender Mustang bass like a teenage stoner intent on revenge.

Patrick Pentland in pork pie hat, looked more like a chap waiting for a bus, but became a punk pop star with the single stroke of a power chord from his white Gibson SG. This guy makes the guitar talk and delivers his familiar tunes like a pissed off kid.

Jay Ferguson sprinkled his flavour over the music with jangley Rickenbacker rhythm and tasty guitar work throughout. He is the perfect musical foil to Pentland. Ferguson seemed a bit subdued this evening, but he balanced any of that with the singing of his beautiful melodies and a very happening hat.

Touring keyboardist Gregory McDonald (I should know, I googled it) performed triple duty with the addition of percussion and background vocals. He’s been helping round out the band’s live sound for 10 years.

Not presently touring in support of an album, (their latest is 2011’s excellent The Double Cross) Sloan spanned the breadth of their career with their choice of songs. They have a lot to choose from. The good in Everyone, The other man, The rest of my life, Money city maniacs, She’s slowing down again, to name but a few. The audience sang along, clapped, stomped and cheered. They should do for these warriors of the road, these two decade long survivors that still know how to stir it up.

Next on Sloan’s agenda is a double album on which each writer takes a side. If they don’t become world famous for their music then let it be for being the creators of the most successful democracy in rock. Everything in four equal parts. It’s the secret to their longevity.

If you haven’t seen Sloan yet, don’t worry, they’ll be at a gig near you soon. They are hard working Canucks. Everyman rock stars. They love what they do and all they know is the yellow line.

--taken from: The Music Express (see more pictures here)

Photos: Beau’s Oktoberfest 2013 (Day 2) – Sloan, Rich Aucoin, The Mahones

--taken from: Aesthetic Magazine Toronto (see more pictures here)

by Scott Penner

Canadian rock icons Sloan, who have since celebrated their 20th anniversary together, and who released a hardcore punk-styled single, Jenny b/w It’s In You, It’s In Me, in April, headlined the final day of Beau’s Oktoberfest 2013 in Ottawa last night with a line-up that also included Halifax-based experimental pop madman Rich Aucoin and Irish born Canadian punk band The Mahones, who are essentially Canada’s answer to The Dropkick Murphys.

--taken from: Aesthetic Magazine Toronto (see more pictures here)

Life after major labels: The case of Sloan

Read Leora Kornfield's De-mass'd blog here:

Part 1: http://demassed.blogspot.ca/2013/09/life-after-major-labels-case-of-sloan.html
Part 2: http://demassed.blogspot.ca/2013/10/life-after-major-labels-case-of-sloan.html
Part 3: http://demassed.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/life-after-major-labels-case-of-sloan_5.html

It’s not the band I hate, it’s their fans

--taken from: Gig City

by Michael Senchuk

Pop quiz: Name the album that was voted the No. 1 Canadian album OF ALL TIME by respondents to a Chart magazine poll.

The answer may surprise any but true Sloan fans – and there are lot of them, an entire generation moved by the iconic Toronto quartet’s ground-breaking 1994 album “Twice Removed,” which contains the most incisive rock lyric of all time: “It’s not the band I hate, it’s their fans.” So typically Canadian, eh?

Playing the Arden Theatre in St. Albert on Friday evening, the band brings more than 20 years of material and live experience to the stage. While like the Tragically Hip, none of Sloan’s songs have charted significantly in the United States, Canadian fans don’t care. Loyal to a fault, they come out in droves every time the band assembles a tour of the country. With good reason. Sloan’s stage shows are thunderous events, walls of sound cascading through the room in an evening rich in one quirky, catchy hit after another. The best include Underwhelmed – the Canadian answer to Smells Like Teen Spirit – along with The Good in Everyone, Money City Maniacs and The Other Man, the latter a great song about being the odd man out in a love triangle: “No one’s rooting for me. If I’m the other man, nature will abhor me.”

The original four founding members remain a part of the group to this day. Chris Murphy and Andrew Scott met at the Nova Scotia College of Art And Design in Halifax, with Patrick Penland and Jay Ferguson joining shortly thereafter. The rest is history.

--taken from: Gig City

Fab four Sloan power pops into Bragg Creek

--taken from: Cochrane Eagle

by Lindsay Seewalt

Fans of the band Sloan should start sifting through the backs of their closets to fetch their favourite pair of Converse sneeks and Levis, as the still-popular Toronto-based power-pop-rock group will be taking the Bragg Creek Centre stage Sept. 28 at 8 p.m.

Celebrating 22 years as a working band, the Halifax natives continue to crank out albums, contributing to a collection that includes mid-nineties singles such as “The Good In Everyone”, “Everything You’ve Done Wrong” and “Money City Maniacs”.

The boys have been hitting the studio hard these days, gearing up for a 2014 release like never before: a double album where each member gets their own side.

“We’ve never really tried that before. It’s like four mini-albums. Without sounding obnoxious, I feel like we’re one of the only bands who could do it that way (because all the members are singer/songwriters),” explained guitarist and singer/songwriter, Jay Ferguson, laughing when asked how a band functions without dispute when all four members are equal voices and songwriters in the group.

“I think there’s no head-butting because the band is sort of a platform for everybody, and we’re all in the same boat, this eliminates artistic frustration…our band is pretty much democracy in action…We always shared in the money – and the lack of money.”

Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland and Andrew Scott are Ferguson’s bandmates.

Sloan was signed to U.S. label giant, Geffen, in a matter of months after releasing their debut EP Peppermint, on their homegrown label, Murderecords. The band released their premier full-length LP, Smeared, in 1992 through Geffen.

Following Smeared, Sloan and Geffen experienced artistic differences over their sophomore 1994 album, Twice Removed. Although released by Geffen, the label did not promote the album. Ferguson explained that the label was uncertain on how to market them amid the flourishing grunge-rock era boasting bands such as Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Silverchair.

The album, although essentially dying in the U.S. market, sat well with Canadian alt-rock audiences. The period following this saw the band on a temporary hiatus, only to reconvene and release their most successful album to date in 1996, One Chord to Another, on their own Murderecords; this reaffirmed the band’s indie spirit and they continue to record, produce and release through Murderecords to this day.

Many Canadian artists have the ‘little label that could’ to thank for their own humble beginnings. In the mid-nineties, Murderecords released albums for other fellow East Coast artists such as Eric’s Trip, Hardship Post, Thrush Hermit, The Super Friendz, Hip Club Groove, Al Tuck, Stinkin’ Rich and Local Rabbits, among others. These days, the label exists mainly as an umbrella for Sloan to release their own music.

Never reaching mainstream success south of the border, Sloan still maintains a regular cult following and always tours parts of the U.S. with the release of each album.

“We’re definitely an underground band there,” said Ferguson, explaining ‘Sloan’s America’ as East and West Coasts, as well as Midwest U.S.

“I’m not embarrassed by any of our eras,” said Ferguson. “When I look back on our career and our body of work, I don’t cringe at any of our music.”

With a re-issue of Twice Removed recently served up, Ferguson said he sees no reason to leave his 1971 Fender Telecaster or 1967 Rickenbacker on the sidelines — Sloan will continue to record, release and repeat for the foreseeable future, having already survived through the bulk years of growing pains, finding their sound and expanding families.

--taken from: Cochrane Eagle

Sloan

--taken from: VUE Weekly

by Meaghan Baxter

'It's a big clusterfuck," laughs Patrick Pentland of Sloan, about the band's latest recording project.
The venerable rock-pop quartet is working on a double-vinyl release in which each member gets his own side of wax. The presently untitled project is about a month behind (the scheduled release date is spring 2014), but Pentland acknowledges the delay is simply a combination of four people trying to create something in one studio space while adhering to their time-consuming summer schedules. Although, Pentland managed to bang out a song in one sitting the night before.

"The hard part for me usually is lyrics; I don't really have a whole lot of appropriate lyrics for rock songs, so I usually get the music done fairly quickly and then I'm just sitting around trying to come up with rhymes," he says. That latest composition is a three-chord, fuzzed-out guitar garage-rock tune; some of his other contributions include a song he began in 2000 and shelved until a few lyrical adjustments—and a simplified rhyme scheme—allowed him to finish it for this project.

"You can't just force it. I don't want to put a song on a record just to get it out; I want it to be good ... I feel like a song should kind of come to you and be done and be good or just move on and try to do something else. That's why I wrote a song last night out of the blue."

All four members of Sloan have always been heavily involved in the writing process of each album, both lyrically and musically. But for this project, with just over 15 minutes of airtime per person on the record, each band member was free to experiment as they saw fit. Pentland hasn't heard much of what the others are doing, but says his will lean towards straightforward rock accented by some atmospheric material.

Pentland's lost count of the number of times it's been suggested Sloan release four solo albums like Kiss did (back in 1978) or write songs together rather than the band's albums being a collection of solo material, but he says it just doesn't work.

"I don't think it works for anybody. Name me one band aside from, like, modern pop where there's 10 writers, but that's not 10 people sitting in a room together. There's different levels of the song being passed around," Pentland says. "The Beatles didn't do that, Rolling Stones don't do that, U2 doesn't do that. If you have four cooks dealing with a pot of chili, it's not going to be very good in the end."

--taken from: VUE Weekly

Sloan: never hear the end of it

--taken from: the griff

by Jibril Yassin

To hear Jay Ferguson, guitarist/vocalist of Sloan, describe an album recording process as nerve-inducing is a bit of a shock.

While the esteemed Canadian rock band are currently playing a series of one-off shows across the country, their main focus is working on a new album, the idea being a double album where all four members, who all sing and write songs for the band, get their own side. It’s a switch-up from their usual fare of having an album of twelve or thirteen songs where a band member’s individual compositions are all spread throughout, and Ferguson’s nervous about it.

“I think it’s gonna be interesting and controversial for Sloan fans,” he says. “I really like the compilation aspect as opposed to everybody getting their own side, but I think because our band has four individual singer/songwriters, we’re one of the few bands that could probably do it so we might as well. We’ve made ten albums, why not make something a little bit different this time? I think it’s a fun thing to try.”

After 22 years together and ten albums, what’s left to try but what you think might be fun? Sloan has kept themselves busy in the three years since they released their most recent album Double Cross by indulging in a series of projects including a hardcore 7”, a series of live bootlegs and an album reissue endeavour that started with their 1994 landmark Twice Removed that resulted in a massive box set and the band touring it across the country, playing the entire thing in sequence for the first time.

Ferguson thinks these projects, including the album reissue campaigns, not only provide the band with tasks to do in between albums but also help provide a jumping in point for fans that tuned out a long time ago and have no clue what they’ve been up to since.

While the idea of playing an album from front to back has caught on with many bands playing memorable albums at festivals or concerts, it’s something that not everyone agrees with. James Keast, editor in chief of Exclaim, recently wrote a scathing opinion piece slamming bands for playing their albums from front-to-back on the basis that playing the album was the ultimate act of fan service, a death kneel to contemporary acts. It’s a position that Ferguson disagrees with.

“I really disagreed with what he was saying, ‘don’t be a slave to the fans’. To me, I thought his editorial was completely wrong. It was completely uninformed because he’s not an artist and he’s not playing in a band and he doesn’t make his living from being an artist and playing in a band,” he says. “What Chris and I put together with the TR box set and the tour was new to us. To me, it was not like something we had done before, slugging through it. His whole argument was a band doing a reissue or a tour playing an album would be stagnant but it wasn’t, and it actually brought out a lot more people than we had at a lot of shows for a long time.”

“I thought it was more fun to do it closer to the record and make it really about bringing the record to life,” he adds. “I went to see Paul Simon once and he did a reggae version of ‘Kodachrome’ and I was furious. I wanted to hear ‘Kodachrome’ the way it sounds on the record cause it sounds so awesome.”

--taken from: the griff

Food stirred with Music

A new Calgary blog, The Rolling Spoon, finds musicians in their kitchens and this got us wondering about the connection between music and food. From a vegan food truck called Sailin' On and a jam making singer/songwriter, Lindsey Walker, to a trained chef on the keys in Sloan we get to the heart of it.

Listen to the podcast with Gregory Macdonald here:
http://soundcloud.com/ckuaradio/food-music-artbeat-september#t=2:29

Enduring rockers Sloan elect to make St. Albert visit

--taken from: St. Albert Gazette

by Anna Borowiecki

It’s difficult to effectively juggle artistic integrity and commercial popularity. So when rock/power pop band Sloan released Hardcore 7, a series of caustic punk songs, fans were left scratching their heads.

“Chris (Murphy) and Patrick (Pentland) are big fans of punk. It was something they did when they were younger. The music was an homage to it and it reflected another side of us. It’s always been something that creeps into our work here and there,” said rhythm guitarist Jay Ferguson. The fourth player is Andrew Scott.

Now in preparation for a three-city tour of Alberta, Sloan parks its gear at the Arden Theatre on Friday, Sept. 27.

After 22 years of music making, the band’s songs are laced with taut melodies and sumptuous lyrics. Few Canadian bands with a national presence and the original lineup survive this kind of longevity.

But after two decades they are still on the industry forefront with 13 LPs (one is a double), two EPs, a live album, a “Best of” collection and more than 30 singles.

Originally from Halifax, the band released their Peppermint EP in 1992, a guitar-heavy art rock sound similar to Sonic Youth and My Bloody Valentine.

“It was called grunge. It was the term du jour like Nirvana or Pearl Jam. We were basically a pop band with loud guitars like the British pop bands,” Ferguson notes.

Impressed with their fresh approach, Geffen Records signed Sloan and released their first full-length album Smeared. By 1994, Twice Removed was recorded but Geffen refused to promote it citing artistic differences.

“We expected them to promote it since our first record did well,” Ferguson explains. “We had a team of people working on our first album but halfway through the team broke up. A second team came along and it was not something they developed and it fell through the cracks.”

Despite being forgotten by Geffen, they opted to tour in the United States, but came home feeling tired and discouraged. They took a hiatus after the long hard slog of touring and rumours ran rampant that the foursome was breaking up.

Fortunately Sloan owned its own label, Murderecords, and decided to produce one last album. Their 1996 One Chord to Another was their biggest hit. Vindication was sweet when one year later Sloan won a Juno for Best Alternative Album.

Almost two decades later the four-piece still continues to crank out the tight harmonies. The next album will total 20 songs. Each of the four singer-songwriters is contributing five songs.

“It will be like four mini solo albums and it will fit like a double LP,” Ferguson said.

Throughout their career, each member has always contributed a minimum of two songs for each record.

“We’re a four-way democracy and everybody gets to do what they want. We’re about the only true democracy in North America,” laughs Ferguson.

Many imitators have copied the band, but they are true originals that have written some of the best songs in the Canadian catalogue.

--taken from: St. Albert Gazette

Dearly Beloved to tour Ireland and UK

--taken from: The Journalist (read more here)

by Louise Nelson

This album was originally released in May of last year but the band have now re-released a special “redux” album which will include new artwork, a re-sequencing of the album and a previously unreleased bonus collaboration with Patrick Pentland of Sloan called “Never tell the truth”.

“I have always championed Dearly Beloved and I am a huge fan of their live  shows. Their songs are the perfect blend of the  excitement of punk rock, the sing-a-long-ability of pop with a dash of muso/prog rock noodling, thanks in large part to Higgins’ amazing bass skills. High powered riffs and melody lines that make me jealous.”

--taken from: The Journalist (read more here)

Sept 13-15th 2013, Concerts: Our Lady Peace, Celtic Thunder, Sloan

--taken from: CONNECT (see more pictures here)

Unifor holds founding convention: Five things you need to know about the new union

--taken from: rabble

4. Organizing younger workers 

Of all the things you might expect from a union convention, free performances from Stars and Sloan's Chris Murphy were probably not one of them. However, both are scheduled this weekend, with Murphy playing at a Saturday night event at the Sheraton Hotel and Stars headlining a free concert at Nathan Phillips Square. Is Unifor trying to score points with the Pitchfork crowd? Probably not, but they are trying to reach out to a younger generation of activists and workers, many of whom are suffering through precarious working situations and a lack of entry level jobs. Free concerts are just one way to reach out to a demographic that may not have any contact with the labour movement otherwise. It'll be interesting to track what other strategies Unifor leaders employ to attract younger members.

--taken from: rabble

Sloan @ Starfish Room 1999

@gmacd @Sloanmusic I see your #tbt & raise you 3 pics. This was a win-to-get-in event at Starfish Room in 1999. pic.twitter.com/WBCh9j6n9Z
— Nikki (@chatterboxYVR) August 29, 2013

The Beau's Mixtape - Oktoberfest Edition

Listen to it and download it here:

http://mixtape.beaus.ca

Dearly Beloved UK & Europe September Tour Dates

--taken from: WithGuitars

by Steve Janes

Originally released May 22, 2012 via eOne Music Canada, Hawk vs. Pigeon is the latest buzz bomb from bass masher Rob Higgins and fellow co-vocalist Niva Chow who, together, form Dearly Beloved. With UK and European tour dates lined up throughout September 2013, even more in November for continental Europe, Dearly Beloved knew it was time for Hawk vs. Pigeon to find a home for an overseas release. Aporia Records will be releasing a special redux of the album in the UK later this year.

“Just this past May, we took our European tour aspirations and a ‘why not?’ approach to playing Indie Week Ireland and that trip led directly to working with AMA Music Agency in Dublin,” recalls Higgins. “As well, a plum opening slot at an all ages gig at Glasgow’ best venue, the Classic Grand, that offered up some more gigs…that train kept rolling. Synchronicity, kismet, call it what you like but we’ve experienced it more than a few times these last 3 or 4 years.”

Hawk vs. Pigeon (Redux) features completely new album artwork, an inspired and fresh re-sequencing of the album and a previously un-released bonus collaboration called “Never Tell The Truth” with Patrick Pentland of Sloan.

“Releasing this revamped version of Hawk vs. Pigeon is like breathing a second life into the album,” says Chow. “I’m excited to rock this next phase of Dearly Beloved.”

Hawk vs. Pigeon was recorded in Joshua Tree, California at Rancho De La Luna and the band’s Phoebe Street Studios and features a veritable who’s who of outstanding guest musician appearances: Dave Catching of Eagles Of Death Metal /Earthlings?, Brendan Canning of Broken Social Scene, Mars Volta/M83 alumni Dave Elitch, Jeff Heisholt of The Trews and Care Failure of Die Mannequin.

“I have always championed Dearly Beloved and I am huge fan of their live show,” says Pentland. “Their songs are the perfect blend of the excitement of punk rock, the sing-a-long-ability of pop with a dash of muso/prog rock noodleing, thanks in large part to Higgins’ amazing bass skills. High powered riffs and melody lines that make me jealous.”

--taken from: WithGuitars

Back to (Grad) School

Check out this blog post:
http://looksharplansing.blogspot.ca/2013/08/back-to-grad-school.html

New #LookSharpLansing post also feat. my fav band, @Sloanmusic. Anytime you guys need a shirt model, you got one. ;) http://t.co/eGkXxOcx8n
— Look Sharp! Lansing (@alisoncanttweet) August 28, 2013

Dearly Beloved "Never Tell the Truth" (ft. Patrick Pentland)

--taken from: Exclaim!

by Alex Hudson

Last year, Toronto alt-rock outfit Dearly Beloved released their album Hawk vs Pigeon through eOne here in Canada, and now they've signed to Aporia for the release in the UK, the U.S. and Europe. This beefed-up version includes different track sequencing, new artwork, and a bonus cut called "Never Tell the Truth" featuring Sloan's Patrick Pentland.

Clocking in at a little more than two minutes, "Never Tell the Truth" is a burst of punk-inspired energy and meaty bass grooves. Stream it below.

"I have always championed Dearly Beloved and I am a huge fan of their live show," Pentland said in a statement. "Their songs are the perfect blend of the excitement of punk rock, the sing-a-long-ability of pop with a dash of muso/prog rock noodling, thanks in large part to Higgins' amazing bass skills. High powered riffs and melody lines that make me jealous."


--taken from: Exclaim!

RiotFest reviewed with Sloan’s Patrick Pentland

--taken from: The Grid TO

by Signals

In our new feature +1, The Grid’s Liisa Ladoucuer reviews a concert in tandem with a local musician to get a pro’s perspective on the performance. For this inaugural edition, Liisa hits the second day of RiotFest at Fort York with Sloan’s Patrick Pentland for his take on two resurrected punk-rock institutions: Iggy and The Stooges and, playing their first show in over two decades, The Replacements.

The pre-game show

Lissa: RiotFest’s second day is for the old-timers. I even see a gentleman wearing a t-shirt that simply says, “Still Punk.”  Oh, there are kids here, on their dads’ shoulders, and teenagers, too. But Fort York is mostly filled with folks who, depending on their age, have been listening to The Stooges and/or the Replacements before they broke up—1974 and 1991, respectively—and there’s an especially huge buzz for the first show from the latter in 22 years. Myself, I’m here to see Rocket From the Crypt tear it up—in snazzy suits colour coordinated to their Marshalls, it turns out—and then watch Iggy Pop do what he does best: display the raw power of rock ‘n’ roll—with his shirt off. And to find out what my first guest musician co-reviewer will think.
Patrick: I’ve seen The Stooges before, at that free NXNE show. Sloan actually played the night before The Stooges, and we had the largest crowd ever for Yonge and Dundas Square. But then the next night The Stooges broke that record. We were big for one night. The thing is, Iggy should be dead—like Keith Richards or Lemmy. But he never took a break from performing and he brings all that experience to the stage now. I think that’s why it’s called Iggy and the Stooges, and not just The Stooges.
Lissa: Do you think he’s going to come out with his shirt off?
Patrick: I hope not. But probably.
Lissa: What about The Replacements? I am admittedly not well educated about them.
Patrick: Me neither. This will be my first time seeing them. They’ve had such an iconic status after they broke up. It’s kind of like the Pixies. And I know there are a bunch of people that came here just for them and it’s a huge deal for them to see them play. For me, that band was Jesus and Mary Chain so I know what that’s like.

Post-game analysis

Patrick: I liked the Stooges. They opened with “Raw Power” and it sounded great. I think it was a really good performance overall, better than the Yonge and Dundas one. Even though they did some new songs. And there was a lot of sax. Unfortunately, they do have a lot of saxophone in their stuff. I don’t mind it as sort of a rhythmic instrument, but I don’t like sax solos too much. I think a lot of people feel that way.
Lissa: Yes, I feel that way. I always think of that oiled up guy in the Lost Boys movie. But at least when they played “Fun House” they have the crowd on stage dancing with them to distract from it.
Patrick: I feel that Iggy spent a good amount of the show lying down and I couldn’t see him. We play a lot of festivals and they are not ideal. It’s more of an event, something to do for the day. If you’re really just coming to “see” the band, you might be disappointed. But this was an impressively high-energy show. Iggy certainly can deliver on a big stage.
Lissa: Even when I can’t see Iggy, because he’s down in the crowd or something, I just like hearing those songs like “I Wanna Be Your Dog” played live and loud. It does feel like history coming to life.
Patrick: The way they’ve been playing these songs is pretty close to the originals. I’ve seen The Rolling Stones a few times and they don’t do “Satisfaction” the same way as on the record; it’s more modern sounding, and that’s a pitfall I think for various reasons. The Stooges don’t do that and I’m more into that. With Sloan, we try to play the songs as close to the albums as possible. It’s weird: The Stooges weren’t the headliners but they played a lot longer than they were supposed to. But who is going to pull the plug on Iggy Pop?

Lissa: Now what about The Replacements? I completely get why people love them. I thought Paul Westerberg was really quite funny and playing right into the hands of this crowd by joking right off the top about their being away for so long over a wardrobe argument. That first song “Takin’ a Ride” was blistering and more fun than I was expecting from them. But then I’m embarrassed to say I thought they were doing a Crash Test Dummies cover with “Androgynous”—I didn’t know they wrote that. It’s still a really boring song. I think the highlight for me was “Love You Till Friday” into the “Maybelline” cover. I didn’t come here for ballads.
Patrick: They look really cool, that’s for sure. But it’s a little bit like Springsteen to me. I don’t understand. The first song was kind of exciting but I need to have a certain degree of excitement in every song. That’s why I like an AC/DC riff, or why I write songs the way I do. Songs that are two chords back and forth and a good story? I’m not a lyric guy so, overall, there’s just a spark that’s not there for me. And I think I heard Paul say in reference to Tommy Stinson, “It’s been a long time since me and him were in Toronto together.” He should have said “he and I.”
Lissa: Patrick, thank you for letting this go out on a grammar joke.

--taken from: The Grid TO

The best songs by each member of Sloan

--taken from: CBC music

by: Dave Shumka

Canadian indie rock heroes Sloan recently announced plans for an ambitious new album. The idea is for a double album — that's four sides of vinyl — with each band member taking lead singing and songwriting duties for their own side. Of course, the band has always split songwriting and singing duties; whoever wrote them didn't have any bearing on their sequence in the tracklist.

The new album idea sounds like a showcase of four frontmen. And to highlight this, we've put together the top five songs by each member of Sloan thus far in their 20-plus-year career, to give an idea of what we may expect.

These lists were compiled by one man (me) who admittedly favours the band's first five albums (and that doesn't make him a bad person). Let us know in the comments below or tweet @CBC_Music, what's your favourite song by each member?

Chris Murphy's 5 best Sloan songs

5. “Penpals” (Twice Removed): Track 1 from the band's best album, pieced together from someone else's fan mail.

4. “Someone I Can Be True With” (Never Hear the End of It): A sweet, short song with some charmingly forced rhymes.

3. “She Says What She Means” (Navy Blues): The opening riff may be Sloan's best.

2. “Underwhelmed” (Smeared): The band's early alt hit with clever lyrics that reveal new meaning with each listen.

1. “Deeper Than Beauty” (Twice Removed): It almost seems like a throwaway recording with just guitar and drums, and it seems like it was written by a 13-year-old, but that's what makes it endearing. It's become a sing-along favourite at live shows, even though nobody can hit that high note.

Jay Ferguson's 5 best Sloan songs

5. “C’Mon C’Mon” (Navy Blues): One of many songs in which Ferguson perfectly evokes Time-Life's AM Gold series.

4. “I Hate My Generation” (Twice Removed): Ferguson shares lead vocals and overlapping lyrics with Murphy on this track that features the mindlessly fun "S-E-A-N-S-A-I-D" shouts.

3. “The Lines You Amend” (One Chord to Another): Remember that thing I said about AM Gold? That, again, with handclaps.

2. “Snowsuit Sound” (Twice Removed): Another handclap bonanza, this song follows "Deeper Than Beauty" on Twice Removed and matches its early adolescent romance.

1. “Don’t You Believe a Word” (Between the Bridges): I actually have no idea what this song is about but it's my favourite Sloan song. It's got those syrupy harmonies, and when Ferguson says, "C'mon, boy," it's just the greatest.

Patrick Pentland's 5 best Sloan songs

5. “Iggy and Angus” (Navy Blues): An ode to classic rock complete with throwback guitarmonies.

4. “A Long Time Coming” (Between the Bridges): Pentland sings Between the Bridges' first two rocking singles, but this twangy number overshadows them. And more guitarmonies!

3. “Money City Maniacs” (Navy Blues): Somewhere around One Chord to Another, Pentland became the primary writer of the band's radio singles, and they've never had a bigger one than this.

2. “I Can Feel It” (Twice Removed): A duet with Jennifer Pierce of Jale, and I'm just realizing I'm really into those sweet songs at the end of Twice Removed.

1. “Everything You’ve Done Wrong” (One Chord to Another): As the band's lead guitarist, Pentland leaves room for two memorable solos in this almost flawless pop song.

Andrew Scott's 5 best Sloan songs

5. “Delivering Maybes” (Between the Bridges): Scott is primarily the band's drummer, and his songs are generally complicated and cerebral, but that doesn't mean he can't write hooks.

4. “A Side Wins” (One Chord to Another): As Beatlesque as Sloan gets, the sinister jangly piano gives way to "Yellow Submarine"-style radio squawks and a cool piano breakdown.

3. “500 Up” (Smeared): Hey, wanna know what 1992 sounded like? Scott wrote this song but shares vocals with Pentland and Murphy, and it's just the fuzziest.

2. “On the Horizon” (Navy Blues): A flurry of words and horn blasts that sounds like it's about to fall apart a few times. In fact, you're never really sure whether the band or you has lost the beat, but you both always pull it together for the chorus.

1. “People of the Sky” (Twice Removed): Possibly Scott's most popular song, it's a bittersweet tune that's at once upbeat and mopey, with sad barbershop background vocals. Like many of Scott's songs, it has a really cool breakdown.

--taken from: CBC music

Throne of Glory with Jay Ferguson

--taken from: Indie88

Jay Ferguson from Sloan took over The Throne

by Jaimie

LISTEN: Jay Ferguson #TOG Playlist
http://indie.streamon.fm/listenlater-pl-20

Playlist:
Sloan – If It Feels Good Do It
Phoenix – Too Young
The Jam – Stoned Out of My Mind
The Super Friendz – Better Call
Elvis Costello & The Attractions – Town Crier
Mike O’Niell – Say You Don’t Mean It
Jay Arner – Surf Don’t Sink
Doldrems – Jump Up
Cheap Trick – Lookout
Marshall Crenshalw – You’re My Favourite Waste Of Time
T. Rex – Ride a White Swan
Pink Floyd – Vegetable Man
Sloan – Who Taught You to Live Like That?
Squeeze – Vicky Verky
The Smiths – Shakespeare’s Sister
Daft Punk – Instant Crush (feat. Julian Casablancas)
Sloan – It’s in You, It’s in me

--taken from: Indie88

St. Clair College Capitol Theatre busy in Sept. and Oct.

--taken from: Swomp

by Aaron

October 19 – Sloan
Sloan is four distinct songwriting voices — guitarists Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson, bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Andrew Scott — that nonetheless form a cohesive collective. Long-time Toronto scenesters who will always call Halifax home. They have always cited the music and aesthetic of the hardcore punk movement as a major inspiration for their independent, DIY approach to making their music and art. Today, Sloan are happy to release a 7″ single of two original songs, plus a digital album featuring covers of 12 of their favourite hardcore songs from their youth.

--taken from: Swomp

Canadian band Sloan to play Bragg Creek in September

--taken from: Cochrane Eagle

Kicking off the 33rd season for the Bragg Creek Performing Arts (BCPA) is none other than post-grunge era, nineties Canadian alt-rock sensation, Sloan.

Sloan will be performing at the Bragg Creek Centre on Sept. 28 for a main series performance, beginning at 8 p.m.

As the Halifax foursome celebrates 21 years of their record label, Murderecords, they will be performing tracks off their new album, Twice Removed.

Comprised of four songwriting talents - guitarists Patrick Pentland and Jay Ferguson, bassist Chris Murphy and drummer Andrew Scott – the group has stay tied to their indie roots and continue to pay homage to their punk rock influences.

Known for their four distinct voices and instrument swapping on stage during live performances, Sloan’s collection of radio hits include tracks like “Money City Maniacs”, “Coax Me” and “Beverly Terrace”.

--taken from: Cochrane Eagle

Sloan members going solo on upcoming double LP

--taken from: Aux

by Tyler Munro

Sloan are continuing to do things differently as they trek onward after 20-plus years together, and following their hardcore experiments earlier this year comes word that they’re working on a new double LP with a twist—each of the band’s four members will get his own side of a record to play with.

“You can’t help but have someone say it’s like the Kiss albums,” said Chris Murphy in an interview with Vish Khanna. “And that’s fine, it is like the Kiss albums. Except that they were successful right up until they did their solo albums. We haven’t been successful for a long time.”

He’s referring of course to the four eponymous solo albums released by Kiss members back in 1978, an idea that was billed as a stress reliever for the band and a set that tanked critically and commercially.

“Our band has been around a long time and we could just keep making regular records, but it feels like you need a story with each record you put out, just to get some attention,” said Jay Ferguson. “Now feels like the right time to do it.”

There’s no timeline for the release, but Exclaim is reporting that Chris Murphy is the furthest along of the four.

--taken from: Aux

100 greatest Canadian albums ever (20-1)

--taken from: CBC music

Album: Twice Removed (1994)
Artist: Sloan

“I was right there in the thick of it when it came out, Sloan getting their Geffen record deal and I was in a band and we were getting our record deal. When I was coming up, they were definitely the most hyped band that I liked. I felt competitive with them because I knew my band at the time wasn’t as good, wasn’t as capable of making as good a record. I have a whole bunch of different feelings towards them, to be honest. Everyone in the band delivers solid tunes on it. I think that makes it a pretty special record. It’s a Canadian classic, but it’s not just a Canadian classic. It’s a good pop record.” — Brendan Canning (formerly of Broken Social Scene)

--taken from: CBC music

Sloan Reveal Plans for Solo-sided Double Album

--taken from: Exclaim!

by Vish Khanna

Following some anniversary celebrations earlier this year, Sloan have divulged details about their in-progress new album, which will come as a double LP where the four members — Jay Ferguson, Chris Murphy, Patrick Pentland and Andrew Scott — each occupy their own side of wax.

"You can't help but have someone say it's like the Kiss albums," Murphy explains in a recent interview, referring to that band's ill-advised 1978 solo marketing venture. "And that's fine, it is like the Kiss albums. Except that they were successful right up until they did their solo albums. We haven't been successful for a long time."

All joking aside, the group are pretty proud to take on this unique conceptual challenge, instead of doing a more conventional Sloan record where songs alternate between the four songwriters.

"I don't know if it sounds obnoxious but if there's any band out there that could do something like that, maybe ours could," Ferguson explains. "Our band has been around a long time and we could just keep making regular records, but it feels like you need a story with each record you put out, just to get some attention. Now feels like the right time to do it.

"Maybe everyone will think, 'That was stupid.' And then we'll come back with a regular record where everyone's like, 'Yay, it's great!'"

At last check, Murphy was the furthest along in the recording process, Ferguson and Scott are tied in terms of having a lot of music but no lyrics, and Pentland is pulling up the rear.

"I've heard a bunch of [Pentland's] stuff," Murphy says. "I know some songs he wants me to play bass on, but he and I know he's doing the least, but that's par for the course. Our last double record, he claims he didn't know it was a double record until it was mixed. That's his story."

At this point, the upcoming double album is without a firm due date or title.

As previously reported, Sloan's label Murderecords recently released a photo/music book called Murderecords 7" Singles 1993-1998, which includes photos by Catherine Stockhausen, an oral history about all of the singles, a 28-song download, and a 7-inch of a long-lost pair of songs by the Certain Someones, which featured Murphy, Jale's Jennifer Pierce, and Matt Murphy of the Super Friendz. Check that track out below.

Full disclosure: Exclaim! contributor Vish Khanna has a podcast called Kreative Kontrol with Vish Khanna, for which this interview was initially conducted for. You can listen to this interview here.

--taken from: Exclaim!

Sloan make up show

--taken from: The Peterborough Examiner (more pictures here)

by Rob McCormick

Del Crary Park was packed for a rare Sunday night Musicfest show as Canadian rockers Sloan worked their way through a 20-year catalog of hit songs.

The band was supposed to perform Saturday night, but was stranded in Halifax after Friday's devastating thunderstorms. The foursome, originally from Nova Scotia but now based in Toronto, was able to fly out Sunday and arrived at Peterborough's Del Crary Park late Sunday afternoon.

The crowd planning to see the band Saturday didn't seem to mind the one-day delay, cheering as the music started.

"It's worth it," said fan Denise Pettit, who saw the band several years ago in her native Alberta and was looking forward to seeing them play songs like Money City Maniacs, If It Feels Good Do It, Underwhelmed and The Good In Everyone.

Musicfest business manager Tom Kingdon said there was a lot of scrambling done after the band learned it wouldn't be able to make it Saturday, but everything came together nicely.

Pettit said the weather, a break from last week's heat wave, was another plus: "It's a perfect night," she said as a breeze came off Little Lake.

Kingdon thanked several sponsors, including The Examiner, from the stage before Sloan's opening number.

Musicfest, a free summer concert series, features shows Wednesdays and Sundays. The next performances will feature Rik Emmett of Triumph on Wednesday and the Rolling Stones tribute Hot Rocks next Saturday.

--taken from: The Peterborough Examiner (more pictures here)

Sloan - Peterborough Musicfest

Check out the pictures on Dayna Hawerchuk's flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dhawerchuk/sets/72157634751283315/

July 21, 2013. Del Crary Park Peterborough Go Canucks Go!

Sloan rockin Peterborough Musicfest Sunday July 21/13

Check out the pictures on Linda McIlwain's flickr:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/grlngrn/sets/72157634757310314/

Too old for new music to listen to. Except Sloan.

Check out Kev Bob's blog post here:

http://kevbob.tumblr.com/post/56055661821/too-old-for-new-music-to-listen-to-except-sloan

My Night Performing With Kids in the Hall

--taken from: Huffington Post

by Steve Patterson

With a week to go before a string of shows at the prestigious Just For Laughs festival in Montreal, I'm doing what most comedians heading to the festival are this week: warming up.

To that end, I've been performing in small venues that I haven't performed in for a while and even "open-mic nights" in places that are not even comedy rooms save for the set up of a mic stand in the corner (usually directly in the path of the public bathrooms for some reason).

It's an odd way to prepare for a television gala in a theatre that holds 3,000 people such as I'll be part of next week. But it really is the only way to prepare for these things. You need an audience to prepare for an audience.

But then sometimes, you just get lucky.

My wife, who is also my manager (she likes to go by "wifeager") had arranged for a series of shows at Yuk Yuk's in downtown Toronto this week. It's where I cut my comedy teeth back in the mid-90s (yikes) and I have kept a good relationship with everyone there including owner Mark Breslin and his management team including Jessica Guinty who had set up shows for me this week.

Yuk Yuk's Toronto is always a good room to perform in. On "bad nights" there might be only a few dozen people (including other comics, bar and cleaning staff) but they have usually all come to laugh. On great nights it is packed with over 200 people, all on top of each other (figuratively speaking. Grow up!) and the response when you really get them going is amazing.

Then there's a night like last night: Wednesday July 17, 2013. Jessica had asked me if I would host a fundraiser for Alberta Flood recovery and I of course was more than happy to help having spent a good deal of time in Alberta over the years. What I didn't know was that I would be sharing the bill with some of the cast and writers (comedians that I know) of the upcoming CTV show "Spun Out" and also ALL OF THE KIDS IN THE HALL!!! (capitalized for excitement. Not anger)

Like many Canadians, I am a diehard fan of The Kids having watched them on tv and attended their shows while I was at university. But to be sharing a stage (a small one at that) with Dave, Mark, Bruce, Scott and Kevin was something entirely different.

And as if that weren't enough (it was) also on the show providing music was Craig Northey from The Odds and Chris Murphy from Sloan: two of my favorite bands in the world!

Honestly it was like I was having a dream. Like a GOOD show dream as opposed to the ones when I emerge on to a stage in the middle of a play and everyone is looking at me to deliver a line that I don't know.

Rounding out the show were top notch comedians Darrin Rose, Graham Kay, Nick Beaton and Darcy Michael as well as actors Paul Campbell and J.P. Menoux.

The room was packed with adoring Kids fans, screaming their delight at the sight of long-loved characters and sketches as well as new pieces put together just for this night. Dave Foley, who helped organize the evening, ended with a stand-up set which showed a different side than anyone has seen on TV while also exhibiting why he has gotten so far in this business: he's a very likeable man offstage and a downright lovable man on stage, getting away with tongue-in-cheek comments that other comics would be booed off the stage for.

In the end, the show was just less than two hours long, but all The Kids stayed around (literally, in the hall) signing autographs and meeting adoring fans and on top of it all, a good chunk of money was raised for flood relief in Alberta where Kids Bruce McCulloch and Mark Kinney have their roots (which are the first things to go in a flood. #sorry)

I hate when people say of something they know I would have loved to have seen "you should have been there." So I won't say it (though I just wrote it). All I can really say is I was thrilled to be a small part of this magical night. Thanks to Yuk Yuk's, Dave Foley and David Himmelfarb for putting this together and best of success to the team of Spun Out on a successful run for many seasons to come.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to keep warming up. Something not many people say in the middle of a heatwave. Unless you're a comic getting ready for Just For Laughs.

Steve Patterson is the host of The Debaters on CBC Radio and a multiple Canadian comedy award winning stand-up comedian. His one-man show "This Is Not Debatable" runs from July 22-27 at Just For Laughs in Montreal and he'll be performing in the Calgary comedy festival Sept 9-15.

--taken from: Huffington Post