#magda knyszynski

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UM Single Review: Green Day -“Revolution Radio”

Green Day -“Revolution Radio” Release Date: September 9th, 2016 Label: Reprise Records Reviewed By: Magda Knyszynski Its has been 4 years since veteran punk rockers, Green Day, have released an album and Revolution Radio is generating the same hype as previously released records. This is a song that solidifies Green Day’s place in the industry as a leader of the punk era; mixing fast paced guitar riffs and upbeat, edgy drum lines. The single is featured on their highly anticipated, upcoming album, ‘Revolution Radio’ which is set for release on October 7th through Reprise Records.

"Revolution Radio" is a song that appeals to both new and old Green Day fans as it incorporates the original sound that the band has become known for, but also adds a more matured vibe to it which shows the bands growth throughout the years. Personally, I found that this track parallels Green Day’s song ‘American Idiot’ in terms of lyric content and the serious political undertone that ‘American Idiot’. However, the way that it is delivered differs from previous tracks. As seen on ‘American Idiot’, harsher guitar riffs and more aggressive drum backing are still present on Revolution Radio; though cleaner and much more mature. The infectious riffs and solid beats make this single true to Green Day. The lyrics are powerful; reflecting on the political climate that surrounds the Black Lives Matter movement- “Scream with your hands up in the sky/Like you want to testify/For the life that’s been deleted/Sing like a rebel’s lullaby/Under the stars and stripes/For the lost souls that were cheated”. The serious undertone is direct and identifies a large issue that is currently happening in the world, while mixed with a happier musical tone. Overall, the single “Revolution Radio” makes me want to sing it at the top of my lungs, as it is a song of a powerful movement. This song is true to the fans and the audience as well as Green Day; as they have become known for music that contains a political message. The single is catchy and will make you want to sing along. Kudos to Green Day for an inspirational track. Stay tuned with Green Day: http://www.greenday.com/ https://twitter.com/GreenDay https://www.instagram.com/greenday/ https://www.facebook.com/GreenDay/

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Gallery: CBC Music Festival Features: Maestro, Whitehorse, Tokyo Police Club, Alvvays, The New Pornographers, Terra Lightfoot, John River, Ria Mae, Zaki Ibrahim, The Franklin Electric​ Location: TD Echo Beach -Toronto, ON Photographer: Magda Knyszynski

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UM Review: Coleman Hell – Self-Titled

Coleman Hell – Self-Titled Label: 604/Columbia Records Release Date: October 23rd 2015 Reviewed By: Magda Knyszynski Thunder Bay born Coleman Hell released his self-titled EP last year in October and is due to release his debut album sometime this year. The EP features the single, 2 Heads, which has garnered him not only a platinum status but also a nomination at the Juno awards. With partners La+ch and Michah, Hell has definitely made a name for himself in the music industry with his self-titled EP and has shown that he is ready to make an impact on the music world. Even though there are 6 songs, the EP is full of energetic sounds and great lyrical compositions. The EP opens with "Sitcom", slow introduction that quickens into the fast pace that is set by the rest of the album. The song follows a different lyrical and musical pattern; by sampling laugh tracks it creates a bubbly theme and its hard not to sing along or bob your head to. Incorporating a simple backbeat helps bring out the vocal range the Hell has. It does an amazing job at introducing the single, 2 Heads. 

The second song and one of the singles, "2 Heads", incorporates soulful vocals with an energetic banjo filled backdrop, which leaves the listener singing along.  The piano introduction does an amazing job of bringing in the listener and the energetic banjo definitely keeps the attention towards the song. The song is catchy and fuses electronic beats with a folk sound. "Thumbalina", the latest single off the album, is an uplifting and upbeat tune. With a visible pop influence, as compared to the other songs on the EP, this one proves that Coleman can work with different genres successfully. Take Me Up, the 3rd of the singles released, shows that Hell has a wide variety of styles within his music. Powerful vocals partnered with piano and light synths, differ from the rest of the music charts that makes Coleman Hell’s songs unique and energetic.  After Hours, a relatively slower song compared to the earlier 4, but it definitely showcases Hell’s vocals with the softer background beat. The song, "Move On", is last but definitely not least. The lyrics are serious and have a thoughtful energy, and Hell conveys that extremely well with his dulcet tone. Move On works beautifully as a closing song for the EP. It demonstrates the full range ofHell’s vocals from high to low. Overall, Coleman Hell’s self-titled EP is a wonder. The songs are beautifully composed and demonstrate the full extent of his capabilities. It is amazing to think that this is accomplished through a prelude to his full-length album, which is supposed to be released sometime this year. Make sure to keep an eye out for Coleman Hell because he is definitely not done making great beats. Check him out at Wayhome Festival, Bluesfest, and Osheaga this summer! Connect with Coleman Hell on the following websites: http://colemanhell.com/ https://www.facebook.com/colemanhell/ https://twitter.com/colemanhell https://www.instagram.com/colemanhell/ https://www.youtube.com/user/colemanhellVEVO

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Gallery: CAN/AM 2015 Features: Rarity, Vanna, Like Pacific w/ special guests:  Mayfield, Neighbours Venue: Ritual - Ottawa, Ontario Photographer: Magda Knyszynski Rarity is on the rise and they dont look like they will be stopping any time soon. With a signing to Rise Records early in the year, they have been busy recording their first full length album. After the release of their first EP "Alive In Your Eyes", the world got a taste of what their music is about. Fast paced, catchy tunes are what makes their live shows a true enjoyment. They started their show in Ottawa with songs off their EP, which fans recognized immediately and sang right back to them. The small venue allowed an intimate show and created an atmosphere where a connection could be made with fans, which is refreshing to see as many bands just take the stage rather than interact with the crowd. As they near the end of their tour run with Vanna and Like Pacific, I highly recommend checking them out on their next tour and eventually grabbing their new album when it drops.

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Gallery: Digital Dreams Features: Sander Van Doorn, Yellow Claw, Zedd Location: Downsview Park -Toronto, ON Photos By: Magda Knyszynski

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Gallery: Digital Dreams Features: Adventure Club, Arty, Martin Garrix Location: Downsview Park -Toronto, ON Photos By: Magda Knyszynski

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Gallery: The Frozen Flame Tour Features: August Burns Red, Fit For A King, Miss May I, Northlane Location: Bronson Centre -Ottawa, ON Photos By: Magda Knyszynski

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Gallery: 5 Seconds of Summer Features: 5 Seconds of Summer, Jackson Guthy Location: The Sound Academy -Toronto, ON Photographer: Magda Knyszynski