Ciara’s new full-length ‘easily forgettable’: Review

Ciara is trying hard not to come off as Rihanna-lite but it’s not likely to happen with her forthcoming album, Ciara. By: Nick Krewen Music, Published on Tue Jul 09 2013 R&B/POP 1.5 stars Ciara (Sony Music) “Ladies this is your sound/So as soon as it comes out/You should get yourself on the floor/And get your sexy out.” So commands Ciara, the former Queen of crunk (remember crunk?) on “I’m…


How Afrofest evolved into Toronto’s largest celebration of African culture

Authentic foods, arts, crafts and music from across the continent highlight event, now celebrating 25th year. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Fri Jul 05 2013 It was as good an omen as any. Michael Stohr recalls that 25 years ago at Queen’s Park during the debut of Afrofest, a downpour threatened to dampen the celebrations of those attendees waiting patiently for South African trumpet superstar Hugh Masekela to take to…


Maestro Fresh Wes settles score on Orchestrated Noise

Grandfather of Canadian rap music recruits all-star lineup for first full album in 13 years     Nick Krewen Music Published on Fri Jun 28 2013 For his big return, Maestro Fresh Wes has pulled out all the stops. To commemorate his 25th year as Canada’s breakthrough rap pioneer, Toronto’s Wesley Williams waded deep into Canadian and U.S. talent pools to help him record his brand new album Orchestrated Noise,…


The Goo Goo Dolls and Matchbox Twenty know how to please: concert review

Matchbox Twenty vocalist Rob Thomas delivers the goods for fans of adult pop rock Nick Krewen Music, Published on Fri Jun 28 2013 Goo Goo Dolls/Matchbox Twenty Molson Amphitheatre, Thursday, June 27 3 stars It was a bum rush up the aisle. As I sat in my Section 200 seat during the Matchbox Twenty portion of the double headliner featuring the Goo Goo Dolls at Molson Amphitheatre on Thursday evening,…


Sing Me The Songs: Celebrating the works of Kate McGarrigle: album review

Rufus and Martha Wainwright lead heart-rending tribute to their mother Sing Me The Songs: Celebrating the works of Kate McGarrigle. Published on Tue Jun 25 2013 Folk Various Artists Sing Me The Songs: Celebrating the works of Kate McGarrigle (Nonesuch/Warner) 3.5 stars Culled from three benefit concerts in New York, Toronto and London, Sing Me The Songs is 34-tune love-in by the McGarrigle clan and some of their closest friends…