Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Elvis Mondays at the Drake




The Drake has been long described as a “cultural hotbed”, and their Elvis Monday showcases are no exception to this statement. The event hosts relatively underground artists, with a weekly selection of live local music. Originating thirty years ago, the venue has hosted all major Canadian acts and continues to support the Toronto music scene.

At a first glance it appears as though Elvis Mondays are a relatively unexplored event; enjoyed mostly by the bartenders and family members of the musicians. However, as the night progresses, the Underground slowly fills with an eclectic mix of people; from the guy reading a book in one of the booths to the couple across the room very clearly on their first date. The décor is cohesive to the atmosphere of the venue: trendy without trying too hard. The disco balls facilitate a retro vibe to the space and complement the interesting group.
The acts playing tonight are regulars, starting with the Electric Ants. Most well-known for their rock ‘n’ roll sound, the Toronto natives bring a real sense of energy to their performance. Following is a more acoustic sound as well as a collaborative session between artists Bulldog Skin and Man Meets Bear. The indie electronic sound of Bulldog Skin counters the folk nature music from Man Meets Bear, resulting in an almost haunting set.


The acts playing tonight are regulars, starting with the Electric Ants. Most well-known for their rock ‘n’ roll sound, the Toronto natives bring a real sense of energy to their performance. Following is a more acoustic sound as well as a collaborative session between artists Bulldog Skin and Man Meets Bear. The indie electronic sound of Bulldog Skin counters the folk nature music from Man Meets Bear, resulting in an almost haunting set.

After experiencing this part of our city, we can safely say that Elvis Mondays are highly recommended for those of us looking to stay more in tune with Toronto’s live music scene, or for those of us looking for something new on an average Monday night.

Check out these links for music from the artists:

All photos courtesy of the Drake Hotel and http://ihearthamilton.ca

Monday, July 28, 2014

Toronto's Festival of Beer


Amber Beers, Blonde Beers, Dark Beers and Fruity Beers. You name it, they got it. Toronto’s Festival of Beer was a celebration of the age-old drink that everyone knows and loves. Except at this festival, you could find some of the most unique blends that exist around the world. Some of our favourites included Crabbie’s Ginger Beer, Smirnoff ‘s Ice My Beer, Hop City’s 8th Sin Black Lager and Left Field Eephus Oatmeal Brown Ale.



Toronto’s Festival of Beer (or TFOB) has been going strong for approximately 20 years now and shows no signs of slowing down. This year, there were over 60 breweries with hundreds of beer samples and nearly 20 food vendors. Apart from all the libations to satisfy your taste buds, there were plenty of games and entertainment. There was truly something for everyone. Feeling competitive? Face your friend in beer pong. Feel like chillin’? Grab a seat in the Corona lounge or on the sun deck. Feel like watching a show? Catch some live music by The Trews, Matthew Good or K-Os on the Bandshell Stage.




When we arrived on Sunday around 2pm, the festival was already in its prime. Patrons were sampling various beers, taking tons of photos, playing hilarious games, grabbing free swag and all around having a good time.  The scene was energetic and fun. So, we decided to join the fun and sample a bunch of brews. Here are the awesome ones we tried:

Estrella Pilsner
Crabbie’s Ginger Beer
Flying Monkeys Hoptical Illusion Almost Pale Ale
Kensington Brewing Fruit Stand Watermelon Wheat
Old Credit Amber
Left Field Brewery Eephus Oatmeal Brown Ale
Hop City’s 8th Sin Black Lager
Hop City’s Barking Squirrel Lager
Smirnoff’s Ice My Beer

If you missed the festival this year, we recommend you attend it next year (and arrive early because the time flies). Also, be sure to check it Beerlicious’ other 2015 events. Visit www.beerlicious.ca or www.beerfestival.ca for more details!




#BeerMe #ExperienceYourCity

Electric Island TO - Civic Holiday Edition

| ELECTRIC ISLAND|
CIVIC HOLIDAY EDITION 



We've been waiting for the return all month. And we know you have been too. Electric Island finally takes place this Monday, August 4th with more amazing international talent at Toronto's very own Centre Island. Get ready to vibe all day long to the sounds of Seth Troxler, Maya Jane Coles, Bob Moses and My Favorite Robot, alongside Nitin and Koki. The gates open at 1:30pm and the party goes until 10:30pm. We advise you get there early to take advantage of the beautiful weather and awesome music. 

The Crowd At Electric Island, Canada Day

Electric Island is more than your typical rave or EDM concert, it is a complete outdoor experience. It's about the art, music, food, fashion and good vibes! You can even bring a blanket and enjoy the true picnic experience. 

This Civic Holiday, the food vendors include Gourmet Bitches, a healthy option, Sliced, who sell mostly sandwiches and Bacon Nation, no need for an explanation here. The drink sponsors include Sapporo Beer, Absolut Vodka, Rockstar Energy Drink, Nestea Pop and Strongbow Cider. Our bottom line? There's plenty to keep your cravings satisfied.

Electric Island is accessible via the Centre Island ferry, which can be boarded at 9 Queens Quay West, near the Westin Harbour Castle hotel. The ferry runs generally every 30 minutes. Full schedule and more information can be found on the website at www.electricisland.to.



                            | LINE UP |

Seth Troxler
- Detroit, USA
- Troxler's career started in 2002 when he was only 16!
- Deep House, Techno, Dance, Underground
- https://twitter.com/sethtroxler



Maya Jane Coles
- British/Japanese DJ & Producer
- Has played shows in over 40 countries and the biggest worldwide festivals including Ultra, Sonar and Exit
- Deep House & Electronica
- https://twitter.com/mjcofficial



Bob Moses
- Canadian Born, New York Based Duo
- Elements of Live Vocals and Guitars in their sets
- Electronica
- https://twitter.com/bobmosesmusic



My Favorite Robot
- A trio of Canadian DJs/Producers
- Known for ignoring the norm and broaden the definition of electronic music
- Electronica
- https://twitter.com/myfavrobot



Nitin
- Bangalore, India
- Voted India's #1 DJ by MYFAVDJ 2013-2014 in the PSY-TRANCE Category
- Psy Trance, Progressive Trance, Electronica
- https://twitter.com/djnitin



Koki
- Toronto based DJ/Producer
- Techno, House, Deep House
- https://twitter.com/kookytroll




Don't forget to use these hashtags at the event!
#ElectricIslandTO #ExperienceYourCity