Monday, May 25, 2009

Song of the Week - May 25, 2009

Two of my favourite effects in music are male/female duets and the banjo. Any song that features either of these musical treats will likely tug at my heartstrings and win me over instantly. Imagine my excitement when I discovered Patrick Watson's new tune "Big Bird in a Small Cage," on which he features both the banjo and shared vocals with songstress Katie Moore.

Have a listen and pay special attention to the magical moment when Katie breaks in and joins Patrick's gentle voice, adding strength and beauty just before the song picks up momentum. Notice also how the tune defies expectation when it starts to build the first time. As listeners we anticipate that at 1:17 the song will pick up momentum because of the rising vocals, but the music leaves us hanging and waits for a second build up to finally take off into the next verse at 1:32. This jolt to our expectations makes a fantastic song even more interesting to the listener! Patrick Watson is one of the most exciting musicians in Canada. Check him out and enjoy!!

May 21, 2009 Podcast

Listen to the podcast of our interview with DOXA documentary film director, Alan Goldman, about his film Who the Jew are You?

After a week away from the show, Gerry brings in a half hour's worth of Arts Notes!

Have a listen...