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Well I guess I was supposed to do a show review of Tsunami Bomb, Rise Against and a band not yet named. But I spent my time prodding and poking the brain of Equal Vision's newest asset...a porn star? What does a reclusive doctor name Helcama von Shnowsitz and a lactating porn star name Alexis have

So what I recall from the interview are the unique and quirky affinity these Canadians shared with each other. Their humorous bantering and clever rues entertained and informed. We discussed their music, international scenes, musical styles, relationships with each other, life on the road and music pirating. So try as I may, I'll undoubtedly leave out essential information about the band, their music and the general picture of what the hell a lactating porn star means to a bunch of crazy Canadians...aeah!

Alexisonfire blends beautiful melodies between abrasive guitar lines while layering driving solo's throughout a composition. When I inquired about their writing process, Wade (guitarist) responded by describing it as a jam session. Song construction is derivative on personal styles. Coincidently, what their musical preference is, has been becoming popular on both sides of the northern border. Their combination of disjunctive and cohesive lyrics, tight guitar lines and opposing vocals entered by vocalist George Esq. and guitarist Dallas creates climatic peaks and somber lows in each song.

Alexisonfire was picked up by U.S. based Equal Vision Records...adding to their already impressive roster. Equal Vision trekked through a snow storm in efforts to witness Dr. Helcma's creation wreak havoc at a Canadian venue. Speaking of Canadian venues...

The band and I had an interesting dialog about various international scenes. Wade left me with an enlightening notion,

"...bands try to emulate what goes on the US and the kids go crazy 'cause they think that's what's going on in the US. And in the process of trying to emulate the states they make something better."

When I asked about the Canadian scene specifically, AOF defined crucial differences in crowd participation and reaction. Canadian's (and other countries inhabitants) tend to indulge in shows...

"...they're less rigid then kids in the states." stated Wade.

And what does the band feel about downloading the music used to keep those Canadian and American kids dancin'?

"Go ahead download it..," was the general response of band members.

Before the band dropped there debut album on Equal Vision Records, they toured the U.S. The kids not only knew the band, they were singing along to tracks (unreleased in the U.S.). But let's not neglect the fact that nothing as good as the real thing, so ponder the notion of downloading for a taste and buying for a meal.

Their live show parallels the musicianship displayed on there L.P. Watch Out. Both in studio recordings and live performances they display a frenzy of emotions. Their spastic and chaotic movements and riffs are will organized and precise. They received a warm welcome and raucous response from the crowd following each song. The singer contorted his body as both guitarist played off each other, feeding each others styles like a dialectical debate with instruments. This band is everything old, done completely new and original. With air of humble arrogance whirling around them, watch out for Alexis and her band of lactating followers as they may be lactating at town near you.

Alexisonfire interview conducted February 2005 by Kevin Farr.
Pictures courtesy of equalvision.com.
http://www.theonlybandever.com
http://www.equalvision.com