Back in December, I had the privilege of being invited to The Verge/XM Radio’s Christmas Party at the Tatoo Rock Parlor. This particular party featured a two set acoustic show by none other than The Trews. The music was great, the vibe was cool, and it was a great time to take some photos. Because there was no pressure to shoot for anyone else, I thought it would be a good time to try shooting a series in B/W. I absolutely LOVE the contrasty look these photos took on.

I hope you enjoy them too!

Cheers!
t.

It was a dark room. I mean, really dark! But then again, The Opera House was not known for it’s outstanding lighting. The opening band “Dub Trio” (website here) had just left the stage and headlining Matisyahu was up next. I took my spot in the pit, conferred briefly with security (introducing myself, making sure they were cool in understanding the access I had been given, etc.) and set up shop. I didn’t really know what to expect, I’ll be honest, I hadn’t heard of Matisyahu before a friend mentioned his name two weeks prior. But as the lights dimmed (can you believe that – it was already pitch black and it got darker!) and the first melodic notes were played, I was hooked!

A brief bio on Matisyahu from Wikipedia:

“Matthew Paul Miller (born June 30, 1979), better known by his Hebrew name Matisyahu, is an American Hasidic Jewish reggae musician.

Known for blending traditional Jewish themes with Reggae, rock and hip hop sounds, Matisyahu is most recognizable for his single “King Without a Crown”, which was a surprise Top 40 hit. Since 2004, he has released two studio albums as well as one live album, two remix CDs and one DVD featuring a live concert. Through his career, Matisyahu has worked with Bill Laswell and reggae producers Sly & Robbie. Matisyahu is set to release a new album titled LIGHT featuring the single “One Day” on August 25, 2009. A deluxe album pre-order is available now at iTunes.”

So needless to say, I had a blast. Matisyahu gained one new fan that evening. And I suggest that when his new album “Light” comes out on August 25th, don’t walk, run to your local record shop and pick up a copy!

Cheers!
t.

My favourite band, The Tragically Hip played one of my favourite venues to see them in, The Air Canada Centre. I was again very blessed to be able to shoot the Hip from such a close range with my pro gear. As you will see below, I believe I have been really able to capture the essence of The Hip’s live show. There is so much energy, it just exudes from my photos. As always, I am quite happy with the results.

t.