Features

We here at CJLO love heavy metal, despite its many flaws. It’s not just a few bad apples spoiling the genre. Some cases are evidence of cultural intolerance infiltrating the scene, getting worse as the music becomes more extreme. This two-part series will examine the problematic nature of metal. We’re only scratching the surface here, the subject matter can fill books and multiple documentaries. But only by acknowledging the problem, can we change it for the better.

If there’s a band that embodies the DIY spirit, Montreal trio Men I Trust could certainly claim it.  For example, until this year, the group would even ship their merch to fans while traveling between tour stops.

Graphic: Valery Lemay

For most up-and-coming artists, there’s a balancing act between channeling their influences and developing their own unique identity.  When looking back on his third and breakthrough album, Loveshit, 10 years on from its original release, Montreal singer/songwriter Jason Bajada credits the album’s success with striking this balance for the first time on record.

Do you miss those days when you walked into gym class and the teacher told you dodge ball was what you’d be playing? Have you ever watched The Hunger Games and all of a sudden wished you could shoot a bow and arrow like Katniss Everdeen? Ever thought of combining these two sports?

This incredibly long year is coming to an end. If you read any music publications, you've probably noticed it's list season. A season full of controversy, hot takes, safe choices. Just in time for last minute Christmas gifts, here is what the wonderful people at CJLO liked the most this year.

Photo: Colin Medley

“I hope that show becomes my most important memory of 2018,” says Montreal’s Helena Deland with a laugh.  Deland is referring to her headline performance at this year’s edition of M for Montreal, the four-day festival spotlighting rising local talent for industry folk and music fans alike.  The show is the culmination of a whirlwind year of gigs for the singer-songwriter, including a U.S tour in the spring (including a performance at Austin, Texas’ venerable SXSW festival) and European one last month.