We knew that director/producer/screenwriter Cameron Crowe is a big music fan, given that he was a contributing editor at Rolling Stone before he got into the film business. Still, it was a bit surprising when he tweeted that he was listening to Toronto indie folk band Evening Hymns Saturday afternoon in between posting vintage photos of Jimi Hendrix and John Lennon with their record collections. Maybe we’ll hear an Evening Hymns tune or two in an upcoming film?
The Al Purdy Show
Canadian poet Al Purdy’s Prince Edward County home has served as a retreat for many writers since he passed away, but it’s fallen into disrepair in recent years. To help pay for restoration work, Koerner Hall hosts a night of poetry and music on Wednesday (February 6).
“I think Al has a hold on a generation of Canadian musicians who are devoted to Canada,” explains Dave Bidini. “He was exuberant and Canadian, without being corny or hinterland.”
See preview.
Grounders get signed
Last time we checked in with Toronto jangle pop band Grounders, they were releasing their Wreck Of A Smile EP themselves and trying to put together a split 7-inch with Volcano Playground. However, it looks like they won’t have to be quite as DIY any more they’ve been signed by Nevado Records, home to Bahamas, Yukon Blonde, Great Bloomers and other great Canadian bands. They join Yukon Blonde and Zeus on tour this spring, which should help expand their fan base beyond Toronto’s borders.