Tool in Toronto

I wanted to post pictures from the Tool concert I went to at the Air Canada Center! The venue was packed and the energy in the arena was electric. I can't stress it enough- the show was just phenomenal and Maynard’s voice was spot-on!! I also loved the stage and set-up too! What a great night in Toronto!

Enjoy some pics below:

 Loved the stage set-up!

 

Look at those eyes!

 Brett & I enjoying the show!

Trinity Bellwoods Outdoor Skating Rink!

 Great view of CN Tower from the ice!

 Great to see so many families out to skate w/ Santa!

 I had so much fun!

Trinity Bellwoods Rink!

I just found out that Trinity Bellwoods Park has an outdoor skating rink open to the public for free! I never had random outdoor rinks around town growing up, so this was a wonderful surprise! (No wonder many Canadians are such good skaters with these all over town)! I even learned about the term “shinny-hockey” which means there are pickup hockey games that are designated at certain times on the ice. What a fun way to meet new people around town!

After gathering my skates and getting to the rink, I was excited to see many families skating to fun holiday music. It made me smile that the rink even went so far as to have a Santa skating around with the kids and taking pictures. I must say this is the perfect location for a fun skate- and I’m so happy it’s right in my neighborhood!

Logan's Blog T.O?!

Hello!

If you have read "Logans Lollipop" before you will see there is a new change in the domain! I've switched this website to "Logan's Blog T.O" because I'm (Logan) talking about new things I find in Toronto and blogging about it! (Straight to the point right?) :)

So if you happened to read my posts per the old site, please mark down the change! I've updated my twitter to @LogansBlogTO so if you still want to follow along on my journey here in Canada- I hope you do!

Quiet On The Set!

"Movie Production" Treat!

Yesterday, I walked out of my building and ran into a movie production! The lights and the cops blocking the road lasted all day/night and it was quite exciting to see.  I have seen many spots downtown filming throughout the summer; however, this is the first time the set was literally right outside my door! You never know what you’ll find each day you walk out on the street in Toronto- I love this city!

Ryan Adams at the Elgin Winter Garden Theatre!

 Elgin Winter Garden Theatre

Ryan Adams

 Ryan Adams set up

 Concert Time!

Ryan Adams at the Elgin Winter Garden Theatre!

On Saturday, I went to see Ryan Adams at the Elgin Winter Garden Theatre complex, which I read, is the, “last “double-decker” or stacked Edwardian theatre in the world”! I must say, that both the venue and Ryan were absolutely fantastic to see and it turned out to be quite the memorable experience!

The venue is a labyrinth of staircases with adjoining theaters all in elaborate gold décor with breathtaking details. We were located in the Winter Garden theatre where Ryan Adams pointed out the fact that an electrician discovered it after being closed up for decades! The electrician (that found this theater) tore down a wall while re-wiring to discover the Winter Garden (with the leaves, lanterns, and trees totally intact as it is presented today). A true ghost from the past brought a unique feel to the show throughout the night. 

I must admit I have seen Ryan Adams before (once in DC at DAR Constitutional Hall and the other opening up for Oasis in the US) but this show was my favorite by far. Going acoustic for his songs, he played all of my favorites such as, “This House Is Not for Sale”, “Dear Chicago”, “I See Monsters” and  “16 Days”.  I also loved his piano rendition of “My Blue Manhattan” which had the audience sitting in hushed appreciation. (Can you tell I just adore his  “Love is Hell” album)? And thank goodness for some twitter requests as we were able to hear a classic Ryan Adams & The Cardinals hit, “Dear John” which he stated, he hasn’t played live in quite some time! 

Of course with every concert you may have some disturbances and unfortunately this show was no exception. The sound system was having trouble with a low clicking sound to which Ryan Adams joked he feels like he’s, “playing against a Trent Reznor beat throughout the night”.  However when playing- it was easy for fans to ignore it and appreciate the music. There were also those annoying people who always call out songs for him to play. If you are one of those people reading this today- I ask- why?! My thought is to let the musician do what he intends to do- and just sit back and just enjoy the show! If you want to hear a special song think first “it may be coming later in the show” and if not think “I’ll put in on when I get home” (if your that upset you didn’t hear your favorite song). It always makes me think of people rudely expecting a song they particularly want to hear because they paid for tickets. (Like the musician is at a service to them or something)!

The other distraction (from an otherwise perfect night) was an annoying fan that was yelling at Adams and trying to get into some sort of vocal match. (Again I ask, why?!) After some ignorant comments were made, Ryan turned to the man at the end of the show and thanked him for sharing his feelings and having the, “ the most freest, most vocal man in town” come to his show. ;)

On an upbeat note, there were also some hilarious moments in the show were Ryan Adams performed some improv songs about Dracula’s cooking skills and his Motorhead Jersey (sweater) that is, “defiantly not a t-shirt”. (You had to be there to get those jokes in context but much appreciated by all of us in the audience)! Overall it was a wonderful night and I look forward to seeing him again!

Sources: http://sundaybrunch.to/, http://torontosavvy.me/2010/09/02/double-decker-elgin-winter-garden-theatres/, http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/music/story.cfm?content=184294

The National + Emma Lee w/ Michael Rault in T.O!

 Lead singer Matt Berninger of The National

 View from our box! Almost time! 

"The National" Treat!

I just had an amazing Thursday night by heading to see, The National, at the Air Canada Centre! They are in the home stretch of their High Violet tour and they were fantastic! I just love all their music- and a live performance in a "half-stadium" set just the right vibe. Not only was the concert amazing, I must say we were spoiled with great seats for the show as well. We were invited to sit in the NHL box and it was such a treat to watch the show surrounded by wonderful friends from that location!

The National filled up their set-list with High Violet material but also added two new songs (in which I missed the names during the show). This morning, I looked up those two new songs and according to the Toronto Sun they played, ‘Rylan’ and ‘I Need My Girl’ (which featured violinist Owen Pallett). I look forward to any new material out by The National this upcoming year!

 Emma-Lee with special guest Michael Rault

"Late Night" Treat!

After we saw The National it was time to head over to The Dakota Tavern on Ossington. We had no idea who was going to be playing- but you just know you’ll always catch a great show at that venue! We ended up seeing Emma-Lee with special guest Michael Rault. The show was great! They had a unique upbeat sound that got us all instantly dancing. If you haven’t had a chance to go to The Dakota or potentially see both these bands- you should check them out!  

Souces: http://emma-lee.com/site/, http://www.michaelrault.com/, http://www.torontosun.com/2011/12/09/the-national-are-still-going-strong 

The Tea Party in T.O!

"Surprise" Treat!

I had the best surprise this past weekend- I was taken to the Sound Academy in Toronto to see The Tea Party live in concert! This Canadian band from Windsor, Ontario was formed in 1990 with members Jeff Martin, Stuart Chatwood and Jeff Burrows. I heard about this band while visiting Canada 3 years ago and fell in love with songs such as,  ‘Save Me’, ‘The Messenger’ and ‘The Bazaar’. I loved the fact that they have such a unique sound and use a mix of blues, rock, Indian and Middle Eastern influences. Using instruments such as sitars, esraj, mandolins, goblet drums (Dumbek) and 12 string guitars is right up my ally. To my dismay I learned that the band was on a hiatus since 1995 and was saddened to think I would never see them live in concert. Well, it’s official- they are back and ready to start recording new music this next year and on tour now!

I knew I was in for a treat as I entered the Sound Academy and I heard a mix of drumming and sitars playing throughout the venue. I literally walked into a crowd of people anxiously waiting for, The Tea Party, and chanting for them to come on stage. I was able to chat with some people around me and they were devoted fans that could name every mile they traveled to see this band play throughout Canada. Once the band got on stage, Jeff Martin, was eager to engage with the crowd and let everyone know that they are back and appreciate everyone coming out to see them this night. (He even joked that they are still astonished at the success from their humble beginnings from Windsor, Ontario).

They played crowd favorites (even my favorite songs listed above) and included an acoustic set. They even played some new music (not yet released) to much delight of all their fans. Overall, it was one of the best nights I’ve had seeing live music. I look forward to their return to Toronto! For this American girl, The Tea Party, is one band that I’m so happy Canada introduced me to!

Pics!

 Jeff Martin: (From The Tea Party's official FB page)

The Tea Party @ Sound Academy in T.O: (Photo by: Troy Danniels)

Ok- ready to go in!

Sources: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tea_Party, http://teaparty.com/

The Civil Wars

 The Civil Wars

 John Paul White & Joy Williams @ The Phoenix in T.O!

"Music" Treat!

What a fantastic night! I finally got to see The Civil Wars live in concert here in Toronto at the Phoenix Concert Theatre. The venue was a perfect space to embrace the unique sound this duo creates. If you don’t know who they are yet- you must check them out!

John Paul White and Joy Williams are a perfect blend of light-hearted banter with strong vocal range as they performed a repertoire from their debut album Barton Hallow. They even managed to slip in some cover songs (from artists such as Michael Jackson and Smashing Pumpkins) that are so cleverly crafted it really becomes their own unique mix and sound. They even performed a fantastic new song called “Oh Henry” (in which she commented it was not named after the famous Canadian candy bar)! Their vocal harmony is so unique and blended so well you can’t help but appreciate how masterful these two are when they sing together!

A quality that was so endearing and genuine from these two was the fact it seemed they couldn’t believe people would come out to see them. It made everyone in the audience cheer and smile when Joy would say to the audience, “Wow. Are you all STILL here?” and when she would clap toward the audience (after a song) just because we were cheering for them! It was great!

The quick wit of John Paul White was also a wonderful quality as he played off the audience and Joy Williams so well. He reminded me of my brother (who actually got me into this band) with his sense of humor and quick wit that made everyone instantly love him. John Paul showed off his French when he introduced their song, "C’est la Mort" to which many in the audience giggled at his pronunciation with that southern drawl. Meanwhile, Joy Williams chimed in and started speaking fluent French to much delight of the audience. Throughout the set John Paul White would randomly interject and say "LA MORT" which he got instant laughter and cheers from the crowd.  Everyone loved these two!

If you get a change to see The Civil Wars in concert I highly recommend it. I have a feeling that these small venues may dwindle as their popularity continues to skyrocket! What a great show!

Image Source: http://www.myspace.com/thecivilwars

Happy Halloween!!

Trick or Treat!!

I want to wish anyone reading this blog a safe and happy Halloween! It looks like it’s going to be a great night for trick or treating here in Toronto. One thing that was unique for me to see this past weekend were the different stores around Queen Street handing out candy to kids in costume! We have had some sunny and warm fall days in T.O so it was a fantastic weekend to get out there and enjoy the holiday. 

If you are not trick or treating tonight there are many events to attend around town. My pick for the night would be to head to the Lower Ossington Theatre and see the Rocky Horror Show! As their website states, “Let’s do the time warp again”! Tickets are between $20-30 and I have seen many going to the theater this week dressed as a character from the show. The Rocky Horror Show is a story that tells the tale of newly engaged couple, Brad Majors and Janet Weiss, who discover a group of strange and outlandish people who are holding an Annual Transylvanian Convention.

Happy Halloween!

Image Source: http://usafeast.com/halloween-decorations/, http://www.lowerossingtontheatre.com/

St. Lawrence Market

 St. Lawrence Market, Old Town Toronto

"Market" Treat!

Yesterday I visited the St. Lawrence Market located in old town Toronto. It was wonderful to walk around and see over 100 venders selling everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, seafood, clothing and jewelry. It’s a great spot to grab a bite to eat as well, as many vendors offered deli sandwiches, wraps, baked goods, soups and salads. Yum!

There are three different venues within the market. There is the North Market that hosts large social gatherings and serves as the "Sunday Antique Market" with over 80 dealers. The South Market was originally the building that was Toronto’s first city hall! This is where over 50 vendors display everything from food to jewelry. If you are an aspiring chef the South Market has the Market Kitchen, which is a real cooking school and event venue!

If you are in the mood for a "historic treat" within the market then make sure you stop by St. Lawrence Hall, built in 1850 to serve as the City’s public meeting space. I did not get to see this venue up close but I am going to try and get there soon. I love learning about the history behind these venues in Toronto!

1 LOVE T.O.

“1 LOVE” Treat!

If you haven’t heard of 1 LOVE T.O. then you must read this post! Adding to the dimension of those “I Heart (Whatever City you are in)” the 1 Love T.O. is all about pride of our city. According to his website, “1 LOVE T.O. is about presenting that to the rest of the world. It’s a hometown pride that’s never been articulated before. It’s a movement that bridges the gaps – between cultures, neighborhoods, interests and generations. 1 LOVE T.O. is the unifying voice of our city…Forget about the individualistic message of “I love wherever”. Toronto is different. Toronto is one. And we are all the heart of this magnificent city”. It’s a great message and a huge success.

Normally, you can only find this merchandise at random “pop-up” shops that appear around the city however, that is all about to change. It has been announced that 1 LOVE TO is opening its first store tonight 6pm-10pm at 707 Dundas Sreet West as part of the Scadding Court Community Centre’s Live Local Market. Tonight’s block party is hosted by T-rex-Xx (Host of MuchMusic's Rapcity) and will feature music from Future The Prince (Drake’s Official DJ) and D-Lux (Blue Jays Official DJ). There will also be performances by P.Region, Shaun Boothe and A-Game (with some unannounced special guests). If you are into the art scene in TO- then you will be glad to hear there will also be live painting by Skam. I can’t wait!

Post this opening- if you feel the mood to dance to some 90’s hip-hop then the after party is definitely at The Ossington! From 10pm-2am the one and only DJ Brett Leonhardt showcases ‘95 Live’ tonight of course! It’s a fantastic Friday night in the T-Dot- hope to see you out!

Image Source: http://octobersveryown.blogspot.com/2009/04/we-dont-say-t-dot.html

Reposado Tequila Bar

“Jazzy Treat”

Last night I went to Reposado Tequila Bar and was pleasantly surprised at the laid back atmosphere and live music played! Reposado has Toronto’s largest selection of premium tequila in the heart of downtown west and is located off of Ossington Ave.

As the band trio started to set up I could tell we were in for a wonderful treat! While trying some local drinks and tapas I was eager to hear Spy vs. Sly vs. Spy play. With a drum set, double bass and electric guitar this trio was quite fun to listen to  and watch play! Check out Reposado’s website for live music each night- as there is often some great live jazz to hear! 

Often when I walk by Reposado’s I find myself drawn to the music that flows into the street- so I’m glad I got to experience it firsthand last night! This place is a definite must see in Toronto! 

Image Source: http://fashioninmotion.wordpress.com/2010/02/03/a-perfect-v-day/

Ride the Tiger at the Drake Hotel!

The Lounge at the Drake Hotel

“Soul & Motown” Treat!

Last night I went to the Drake Hotel to see an amazing band called, Ride the Tiger! They displayed a fantastic array of Soul and Motown classics, which featured the many musical talents of the band. With a booming voice the lead singer reminded me of Mayer Hawthorne (who is another favorite artist of mine). 

The Drake itself is a staple in the Queen West neighborhood of Toronto. As stated on their website, “The Drake Hotel is a cultural, entertainment and hospitality landmark in Toronto. In the seven years since our opening, Drake has come to be known as an energetic hub for visual & performance art as well as dining and hospitality, thus providing one of Canada’s most unique and sought after hotel and culinary experiences. We are clearly more than a place to eat and sleep: we are a hotbed for culture. We eagerly await your arrival and open our doors to your hearts and minds".

Not only is the Drake Hotel a fantastic venue to visit when you want to hear great music but Ride the Tiger is definitely a must see band in Toronto! They will be playing the Drake on Monday nights but definitely check out their website for additional shows!

Image Source: http://www.thedrakehotel.ca/scrapbook/347

SummerWorks Theatre Festival

“SummerWorks” Treat!

If you remember me posting about the Toronto Fringe Festival than you will love an event that I just came across in Toronto called the SummerWorks Theatre Festival (August 4^th-14^th)! If you are accustomed to reading my blog, you know that I enjoy theater, art and all live music – so I’m always on the look out for something fun here in Toronto!

According to SummerWorks they are, “The largest juried festival in Canada featuring predominantly New Canadian plays...(which) looks to program a festival that uniquely reflects Toronto and Canada’s cultural zeitgeist. In its 21st year, SummerWorks boasts a selection of over 40 plays, performances, concerts, free events and happenings”. For a full list of performances and information per production sites make sure to check their website daily!

Starting tomorrow there is also the “Opening Day & Night Party” at Art Bar located at 952 Queen Street West (at Shaw) in conjunction to SummerWorks- (Courtyard at the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art and Edward Day Gallery). Each night there will be live performances and DJ’s from 4:00PM-1:00am and opening night (Aug. 4th) features: Raoul and The Big Time, The Elwins, Patty Cake, Modern Superstitions, Light Fires and Choir! Choir! Choir!. So mark your calendars- hope to see you support SummerWorks!

Civic Holiday

"August" Treat!

I am learning many new holidays in Canada such as the Civic Holiday, which takes place the first Monday in August. This statutory holiday in Canada is, “known by many names in different provinces. It's called Regatta Day in Newfoundland, Saskatchewan day in SK, British Columbia Day in BC, Natal Day in Nova Scotia and PEI, Simcoe Day in Toronto, Colonel By Day in Ottawa and Joseph Brant day in Burlington, ON and the list goes on and on. The Civic Holiday is commonly referred to as the August Long Weekend. It is probably the busiest day on highways as tens of thousands of families go camping, to cottages etc this weekend”.

As I posted before this weekend was a great time to celebrate the holiday in Toronto by seeing the Irie Music Festival. I found my way to Queens Park last night to hear a wonderful tribute to Bob Marley featuring Errol Blackwood. The guest of honor of the night included the granddaughter to the legend (Bob Marley) which capped off the night with Bushman who did a tribute to Peter Tosh. The festival was a fantastic event with great music, vendors, food, and art.

 Irie Music Festival

 Fantastic tribute to the legend, Bob Marley, at Irie Music Festival 

The Irie Music Festival ends tonight but there is still time to enjoy it today as part of this Civic Holiday weekend!

Image Source: http://themusic.name/gallery/bob-marley-gallery/ , http://rastaonline.ca/events/, http://www.canada-quiz.com/civic-holiday-1st-monday-in-august-is-holiday-in-canada/

Irie Music Festival

If you are in the mood for some great music, food and dance this weekend in Toronto- the Irie Music Festival is an event to visit! Starting today there are live performances at Queen’s Park and Yonge-Dundas Square that features music from Salsa, Reggae, Soul, etc! If you want to see the IRIE Music Awards kick off event you can purchase tickets and head to the Phoenix Concert Theater tonight. 

According to the website the celebration of music, “is presented in association with dance, immersion, spoken/word/literature, visual arts exhibition, movies, and delicious tropical food & drinks”. You only have until August 1^st to take in the festivities!

Image Source: http://www.torontokiosk.ca/festivals.html

Edge Walk at the CN Tower!

Canadian Press reporter Alexandra Posadzki leans back 1,168 feet over Toronto

Scary Treat!

As I posted last month I have a fear of heights when it comes to going to the top of the CN Tower. For those that are even more adventurous (and not scared of heights) this week is for you! Edge Walk has opened and you can start to get your tickets to literally walk around the outside of the CN Tower via a trolley and harness system (pic above). It is the first of it’s kind in all of North America, and I’m sure to be a fantastic tourist attraction here in the T-Dot!

Per the website, Edge Walk will operate from May- October and in all weather conditions except for electrical storms and high winds. It may be just me- but I wouldn’t walk around the tower if it was raining, snowing or anything in between! However, if you can do it- I think it would be an amazing experience! Good luck thrill seekers!

Image Source: http://www.metronews.ca/edmonton

Art Battle! (Cont)

 At the start I couldn't wait to see what this would become!

 Stunning!

Here I am walking around enjoying the Art Battle!

Jacqueline Poirier beginning her painting

 The end result is beautiful! Gets her into the final!

 Chen Cao was amazing to watch!

 Cao's painting got him into the final!

 AB Final Round: Champion...Jacqueline Poirier! Beautiful! Can't believe she did that in 20 min flat!

“Going to Battle” Treat!

As I posted yesterday about the Art Battle taking place in Toronto- I am happy to post today that I went and was blown away by the creativity and talent of the artists that competed! The Battle started with 2 rounds of 8 painters that had 20 minutes to complete a painting (no theme- just pure talent)! While the artists were painting, those in the crowd were able to walk around and get up close to the artists and watch their masterpieces unfold. As you waited with anticipation, some artists were talking to friends, people gathered at the bar and some just stayed in place watching a particular painting unfold- all while listening to some awesome tunes by the in house DJ.

After 20 minutes had gone by, I could not believe what artwork had emerged! Each person that entered the building then had a chance to go around and put his or her vote into the ballot box of the painting/artist that they believed deserved to get to the final. An artist I was amazed by was, Chen Cao, (picture above) who created amazing portraits that seemed to emerge with each brush stoke. What really astonished me what that Cao not only was AB 15 Champion (and I learned sells his paintings at high value) but also was born with cerebral palsy. He was just amazing to watch. In the end, a definite favorite of mine, Jacqueline Poirier, won the championship with a painting done in black and white, with a splash of red to showcase the tree that emerged from drippings on her canvas (picture above)!

One of the best things about this event was that after each round the paintings were auctioned off. (I am quite sad to admit that I placed a bid on a painting and it was sold for a higher price). However, on the flip side to auctioning off some amazing pieces of work- those paintings that didn’t have a bidder were destroyed in what they called, “true tradition of the Art Battle”. I also want to mention here, big thanks to Fred Espina- it was a great event!  

Art Battle!

The Battle Begins!

"Battle Treat"!

I just learned about a great event called Art Battle featuring 16 painters that go head to head tonight at The Great Hall in Toronto 7:30pm. But you may ask- what is an "Art Battle"? According to their website, “Art Battle is live competitive painting. The audience watches, cheers, votes and bids in support of the artists and their paintings. All paintings created at AB are auctioned. Paintings that fail to meet the minimum bid may be destroyed”.

If you go to their website, this event looks really exciting to watch! I have never seen anything like this before- but with the brackets and competition that ensues each round- I’m sure it’s quite intense. I can’t even imagine the pressure and adrenaline rush that these artists go through while painting. I’m hoping to try and make it tonight if I can!

Image Source: http://www.artbattleto.com/#742636/Snapshots

It’s Getting Hot Hot Hot!

Beat the Heat!

Toronto is finally feeling like the weather I’m used to in the States! Normally, I wouldn’t have thought Canada could get so hot in the summer- but I have been proven wrong! The temperature this week keeps climbing and our nights are filled with stagnant humidity. I’m still getting used to seeing Celsius on the news but this week has been quite an experience seeing what 40 degrees actually feels like. It’s hot out!

Even though the air-conditioning is running this is the first time since I have been here that it’s been on night and day. For me, (during late July) this is a joyous treat! Normally, the cool air would have been pumping the last month non-stop because extreme heat is what I’m used to. (Hey, DC was built on a swamp)!

I’m heading to the States this weekend, so I will be able to extend this heat wave experience as I continue to travel south. I hope it starts to let up soon, but at least I know a pool is waiting for me. Good luck beating the heat anyway you can!  

Image Source: http://blog.silive.com/weather/2008/06/the_weekend_weather_54.html