It is extremely hard to classify a band into one specific genre, but one has to for the sake of the media. Few bands out there can cross this categorical border, but I have taken it upon myself to prove you doubters wrong when classifying bands. “The Glim Project” is a perfect example of how a band can be diverse. They bring in many influences to their music, ranging from classic rock, grunge, heavy metal, and modern day alternative; their musical arrangements and riffs remind me of such bands as “Tool” and “A Perfect Circle,” along with other artists such as “Nirvana,” and even “Metallica.” This musical variety brings them a devoted fan base and somewhat of a cult gathering as their CD release party for their self-titled EP at the Media Club was SOLD OUT!

I had the great opportunity to listen to the entire album, and a few tracks stuck out for me. The EP started off strong with “Elitist,” a song about stuck up Indie rock bands that should “embrace all your artistic bullshit.” Their heavy, but melodic, riffs will leave you breathless and wanting more. In “Say Goodnight,” the band shows a more emotional aspect, embracing the fact that one must “say farewell to all the years we made.” This album, with drum tracks recorded in Green Room Studios, was really well put together and I had a very enjoyable time listening to the variety that the band brought, and I highly recommend picking up this disc.

“The Glim Project” consists of Marco on Drums, E on Bass guitar, Geoff on lead guitar, and Lucanus on guitar and vocals. I was able to watch these band mates rock out at the sold out Media Club and perform with the energy that many concert goers love. They played their EP from start to finish and with every spare moment entertained the crowd. Throughout the entire night, a sea of head bangers could be seen with a beer in one hand and the devil horns in the other. Luke invited the crowd onto the stage, which has become a regular occurrence for the boys in the Project, as they performed their final song of the night. They left me with a sore neck that felt like a severe form of whiplash. Their live show is entertaining and full of energy and I suggest going to any of their local shows.

For more information on “The Glim Project,” feel free to visit their website (GLIM) as well as their myspace (GLIMPROJECT). Now go out their and experience the project!

One of the few bands that I personally love and make me jump around like a crazy teenage girl (not that all teenage girls jump around in a crazy manner) is none other than “On Holiday.” This Vancouver based band is extremely energetic and puts on a passionate show, reminiscent of a big named Canadian band called “Billy Talent.” In 2005, they recorded their 6 song EP at 604 Studios with recording engineer Jay Vanpoederooyen, who has also worked with recording artists “Hedly.”

In such a short period of time “On Holiday” has accomplished many musical feats that usually take years for other bands. With the help of a little contest run by a Vancouver based radio station called CFOX SEEDS competition, “On Holiday” will surely get all the exposure they seek. In 2005, they became a top 20 finalist and obtained enormous experience and fan support, but the big break came a year later when they entered the SEEDS again. In 2006, “On Holiday” finally won the coveted prize of being the top 5. One of the prizes they received was a slot in the Canada Day “Foxfest” concert with headliners “Billy Talent.”

The show I went to was their Roxy showcase that saw them perform and catch the eye of everyone in the audience. A few hours ago, the Edmonton Oilers lost game 7 of the Stanley Cup finals. With everyone needing a boost in morale, “On Holiday” provided just that. They came on stage a few hours after the heartbreak and released all their pent up aggression on stage. The night started off with a bang with melodic songs and catchy riffs. A song that really caught my attention was their cover of Corey Heart’s “Sunglasses at Night.” With a more punk rock and fast paced cover, “On Holiday” could have called it their own. They ended the night with a crowd pleaser in the song “Obsession.” where they got the audience to sing a long to the chorus.

For more information regarding “On Holiday,” such as tours and merchandise, feel free to visit their official website (ONHOLIDAY) as well as their myspace website (IMONHOLIDAY). Trust me. This is a band you don’t want to miss.

I recently got a chance to go see “Lotus Child” play live at the “Backstage Lounge” on Granville Island. The intimate atmosphere made for an electric night filled with great upbeat music.

Formed in 2005, this band has had tremendous success in Vancouver playing at showed out venues and has released two independent EP’s. “Gossip Diet”, their most recent record, was recorded in Vancouver’s own Warehouse Studio and was produced by Howard Redekopp, known for his work with “The New Pornographers”. With a blend of piano interludes and soulful melodies, this quartet is sure to wow audiences wherever they play.

The night started off with a bang that would last the entire set. The most memorable moment came when fans up near the stage started shedding pieces of clothing. In true rock n roll fashion, Karl von Beckmann, the drummer of the band, joined in on the festivities. The night was capped off with a tremendous instrumental outing that left people dancing and wanting more.

Their next show is slated at “The Railway Club” on May 21. Be sure to catch them live and I guarantee you will be left speechless. You can sample some of their music on their myspace website (lotuschildband) and stay current with all the lotus child news on their real website (www.lotuschild.com).