NEWS
5.13.2012: NxNE Preview / HMV In-Store
Thanks to Two Way Monologues for a preview of bands performing at Rancho Relaxo during North by Northeast, including Paint (showcase is Friday, June 15 at 11:00pm). Read HERE.
Paint will also be doing an acoustic in-store performance at the HMV Superstore at Yonge and Dundas in the heart of downtown Toronto on Saturday, June 16 at 3:33pm. Check the Tour page for all the info.
5.10.2012: Reflections on Waterloo
Ontario's Kitchener/Waterloo region has a special place in Paint's heart, namely because significant parts of the new album, Where We Are Today, were recorded there, during which time the band made a second home of sorts in K/W (remember the documentary Where We Were in April). More so, the city of Waterloo has always been kind and supportive, especially Maxwell's Music House.
A new review in Velvet Rope Magazine comments on Paint's March 28 set at Maxwell's: "Paint is well-tuned...with the precision of a mature and seasond band... the future is all theirs for the taking." Read the full article HERE.
There was, however, one unfrtunate occurrence last time Paint passed through town, chronicled in this article in the Waterloo Record, where cash, t-shirts, financial records, and some personal clothing items were stolen after the show. Thanks to the kind folks in Waterloo for all their help on this, and any further into can be directed towards the Contact page.
5.8.2012: "In Disguise" Music Video
The third installment of the Video Album Project is up now, based on public domain footage from the 1936 cult classic Reefer Madness.
You can buy "In Disguise" and other Paint songs on iTunes, CDBaby, and the Paint Store, where you can also download the video for 3G phones free.
4.27.2012: North by Northeast Showcase Announcement
Proud to announce that Paint will be once again returning to North by Northeast, June 11-17 in Toronto. Showcase is Friday, June 15, 11pm at Rancho Relaxo, presented by Two Way Monologues and The Indie Machine.
Ticketing information TBA, and all details will be up here on the Tour. page.
We couldn't be doing this again without your ongoing support, so thank you!
4.10.2012: Show Review from Kingston
Kingston Music Reviews, in response to Friday's show at the Merchant, says: "Right from their first song I just went holy f*ck why didn't (Robb put down the guitar) a couple years back, Robb's live performance throughout the first song made their songs explode in comparison... He looked so natural on stage from his opening note (and) it didn't take Robb anytime at all to pretty much take full control of the audience and the stage. I have never seen him so alive before than what I saw tonight." Read more and view photos HERE.
Keep an eye out for tour photos, blogs, and a documentary in the coming weeks, and thanks for making this tour the most memorable and enjoyable in Paint's history!
4.8.2012: Interview from Kingston (Video)
Thanks to Matt Hartwick from Kingston Music Reviews for the constant support. He caught up with Paint after soundcheck last Friday at the Merchant Tap House. Watch the interview above or visit YouTube.
4.1.2012: Canadian Music Week Review
Buying Shots for Bands on Paint's Canadian Music Week showcase: "Intensely dynamic frontman Robb Johannes worked the crowd and had the early arrivers quickly clapping along. Juxtaposed with their powerpop hooks, there is a darker edge to many of their songs... It's the live performance that adds a greater depth to the band and breaks them out of the mold of being just another pretty pop band."
Read the full review HERE.
3.27.2012: Brant News Article / Canadian Music Week Videos
A new detailed feature on Paint by Lauren Baron of the Brant News on touring, and the role of musicians as more than simply entertainers. Read the full article HERE.
And here's videos of "Girl in a Frame" and "Strangers" from Paint's acoustic session at the Garrison in Toronto for Canadian Music Week. Electric versions to come!
A few things to keep an eye out while we're on tour (aside from the obvious shows):
* Wed, 3.28: "End of the Reel" premiere on CJAM, 5:00-6:30 p.m. EDT (stream HERE).
* Sat, 3.31: in-store performance at Grooves Records, London ON
* Mon, 4.2: on-air interview on Trent Radio, 6:00 p.m. EDT (stream HERE).
* Wed, 4.4: interview and acoustic performance on CHUO, 1:00 p.m. EDT (stream HERE)
Anything else that comes up will be announced through Facebook and Twitter, as we'll be on the road and unable to post to the website. Because yes, we do it ourselves!
3.26.2012: Waterloo Record Feature Article / Keep Tabs on the Road
Thanks to Patrick Finch with the Waterloo Record for an in-depth interview with Robb Johannes on Where We Are Today's roots in Ontario's Kitchener-Waterloo region, relationship with producer Ian Smith, the value of touring and social media, and the band's future. Read the full article HERE.
Don't forget Paint's Spring 2012 Tour begins this week in Waterloo, Ontario. Full details are on the Tour page, and specific events can be found on Facebook. The band will also be updating on Twitter and Facebook throughout the tour, keep an eye out. And see you soon!
3.19.2012: Tour Starts in 2 Days! Rehearsal Sneak Peak Video
Visit the Tour page for all the details. And as a special treat, here's a rehearsal video of "If The Walls Could Talk" filmed 3.18.2012.
3.6.2012: "End of the Reel" music video
The second installment of the Video Album Project is up now.
You can buy "End of the Reel" and other Paint songs on iTunes, CDBaby, and the Paint Store, where you can also download the video for 3G phones free.
2.29.2012: "End of the Reel" video coming next week
A while back we announced the Video Album Project, in which every song on Where We Are Today would be accompanied by a music video. Video #2 is ready to go, for none other than "End of the Reel." It will be launched next week. Two more videos are in queue as well. Stay tuned.
2.20.2012: Tour Promo Shots Are In
Paint's fourth collaboration with Jason Guitard, a bit of an ode to Anton Corbijn, is up on Flickr, and in the Paint Gallery. Enjoy!
2.19.2012: Rare Rehearsal Video and Photos for Tuesday's Show
Tuesday's show at the Supermarket in Toronto will be a unique event, not only with Paint as the musical guests for the Geoff Hendry & Associates comedy show, but the band will perform a semi-acoustic set, upright bass and all.
Watch a very rare and intimate rehearsal video (above) of Paint working on "End of the Reel" in an acoustic format. Some photos are up as well.
More details on the show are on the Tour page. RSVP on Facebook HERE.
2.15.2012: New Blogs Posted
We've had some requests for more blog postings. Thank you! Here's one on blogging and another on The Grannys, courtesy of Robb. Be careful what you wish for...
2.12.2012: On the Road Again
We are proud to announce Paint will be back on the road again this spring, beginning with a showcase for Canadian Music Week 2012 on March 21 at the Painted Lady in Toronto.
From there it's onto:
3.28: Waterloo ON @ Maxwell's
3.29: Strathroy ON @ Duke of Earl
3.30: Windsor ON @ Milk
3.31: London ON @ Black Shire
4.2: Peterbrough ON @ The Spill
4.3: Montreal QC @ L'Escogriffe
4.4: Quebec City PQ @ L'Agitee
4.5: Ottawa ON @ Zaphod Beeblebrox
4.6: Kingston ON @ The Merchant
4.7: Toronto ON @ The Silver Dollar
Waterloo through London will be co-headlining with the lovely Katlina Cowan. Details are on the Tour page.
More dates are being added, and you'll hear all about them right here. Looking forward to seeing you all once again!
1.23.2012: "Girl in a Frame" music video
A while ago this video was shot and we are pleased to unveil it to you and add some cheer to this gloomy winter.
Remember you can pick up the single, and other songs on iTunes. Also, download the video for 3G phones free at the Paint Store.
1.4.2012: Album Review from Kingston
A kind review of Where We Are Today from Matt Martwick at Kingston Music Reviews: "Never striving to settle on anything less than to captivate your attention... Robb's vocals reign supreme throughout." More at the Press page.
12.26.2011: David Bowie Tribute Show Jan. 8
As a band committed to original music, it's always a rare and fun treat when Paint plays a show in honour of one of their favourite artists. Back in July there was the Pearl Jam vs. Nirvana show (which you can watch HERE), and on January 8, 2012, the band will be part of a David Bowie 65th birthday tribute show at the Garrison in Toronto. RSVP on Facebook here.
12.20.2011: 12 Questions With Robb Johannes / Holiday Food Drive
Thanks to the kind folks at 12 Questions for asking Robb about music, virtue, dogs, and headstones. Read the full interview HERE.
Also, Robb will be performing a rare solo set along with several other Toronto frontpeople for a special Food Drive at Rancho Relaxo this Thursday, Dec. 22. RSVP on Facebook here.
11.29.2011: A Small Victory
We are happy to report that on Monday, Robb Johannes of Paint and Tim Broughton of C'est What? had the City of Toronto's anti-postering charges dropped! Read this blog to get all the details.
While we do celebrate the small victory of a single case, wider struggles around the legality of postering, in spite of Supreme Court decisions that have affirmed the value of postering as a fundamental right, do require proactive involvement of artists and promoters in Toronto.
The show on Dec. 8 will thus be a victory celebration!
11.21.2011: Congratulations Michael Chambers!
A well-deserved "Engineer of the Year" award for Michael Chambers (pictured above on the right) at the 2011 Hamiton Music Awards. We had the great pleasure of working with Michael on Where We Are Today at Catherine North Studios earlier this year. The proof is int he records, congratulations Michael!
11.15.2011: Anti-postering show December 8
As you may recall, back in February 2011, Paint played a month-long residency at C'est What? in Toronto. Months later, the City of Toronto under Rob Ford's "anti-graffiti" crusade, fined C'est What? for posters promoting Paint's shows.
Robb Johannes of Paint and C'est What?'s management are contesting the charges with the city and will be in court on November 28 at 1:00 p.m.
On December 8, Paint will be returning to C'est What? with the always lovely Mittenz and Darren Eedens for an anti-postering awareness show. Depending on the outcome of the November 28 hearing, this show will either act as a victory celebration or a fine fundraiser. Stay tuned to see which!
Details on the show are on the Tour page.
RSVP and spread the word through Facebook HERE, and we really looking forward to seeing you out to support something that does affect all of us!
Read a backrounder on the case in the NOW Magazine, as well as the blog by Robb Johannes that started it all.
10.10.2011: Video Album Project
Surely Paint has developed a reputation over the past two years of being road warriors, and we look forward to resuming active touring and live performance in 2012. In the meantime there will be a few live shows that we'll inform you of, and we will be embarking on an ambitious Video Album Project: every song on Where We Are Today will be made into a music video and presented on Paint's Official YouTube Channel one by one in the coming months. We will be collaborating with several independent filmmakers along the way, and if you are reading this and happen to be one (or know of one), get in touch and we can discuss further!
10.6.2011: Indie Week and Canadian Music Week, more press, etc.
Thanks to all the old friends, new friends, and beautiful strangers who lent us their ears, hearts, and sometimes homes from Windsor, Ontario to Windsor, Nova Scotia. The pleasure was entirely ours and we look forward to seeing you all again. A collection of photos from Paint's Where We'll Be 2011 Tour is up on The Official Paint Flickr Photostream now.
Some new reviews of Where We Are Today: "4 STARS: A cohesive collection of songs" (The Fulcrum), and "The vocals and instruments come together like a Jim Creeggan and Billy Corgan love child, powered by a Kings Of Leon aesthetic... A punk-rock bash out of drums and energized vocals" (The Dalhousie Gazette). Read more in the Press section.
We are proud to announce Paint will be playing Indie Week 2011 on October 13 at the Underground Garage in Toronto. Details on the Tour page. Also, Paint will be appearing at Canadian Music Week 2012 as one of the first round of artist selections!
Where We Are Today can now be purchased in physical CD on CD Baby, as well as independent retailers across Eastern Canada.
9.28.2011: Acoustic performance and interview
On one day off during the tour, Robb and Andre swung by the Harris Institute in Toronto to do an acoustic performance of "Girl in a Frame" and an interview about songwriting, touring, smashing gear, and local delicacies. A transcript will be posted soon but for now visit HERE to listen.
9.27.2011: Reviews from the Road
The critics keep on speaking!
Julia Rogers at The Argosy in Sackville NB says, "Where We Are Today is an exciting blend of catchy pop rock and stellar lyrics... (a) soul-satisfying 10-song compilation... (with) undeniable brilliance."
An interview with Jessica Willms at The Fulcrum in Ottawa gives some of the band's history and the process behind making Where We Are Today.
And Joe Mac of Midnight Matinee, on Paint's Toronto stop at the Hideout, exclaims: "Paint have a penchant for effusive pop, catchy tunes and crafty words that evoke picturesque imagery."
Visit the Press page for more, and don't forget to check out the photo and setlist archive from past shows on the Tour page.
9.13.2011: Live and album reviews
Thanks to Nadia Elkharadly with The Examiner for the glowing review of Paint's Toronto album release show at the Hideout: "Intelligent people making incredible music, Paint will surely be making headlines in the music scene, sharing their thoughtful lyrics and addictive tunes with fans for a long time to come."
Visit the Press under "Live Reviews."
Also, Ryan Bromsgrove with The Gateway, in reviewing Where We Are Today, says: "Johannes sounds like he's in total control of the music, effortlessly slipping between mild exasperation to yearning to demanding -- all on just one track ("Boomerang") -- perfectly complemented by the flexible guitar work in the background. The lyrics and vocals never dwell upon one emotion or style for too long, skilfully avoiding the deadly fate of boring the listener. Start to finish, the album sounds right."
More to come as we are on we're on tour all month, but also note that since we do manage our own website, it's easier for us to update Facebook and Twitter while we're on the road. Stay in touch, cool?
9.6.2011: Where We Are Today... AVAILABLE TODAY!
Where We Are Today, Paint's new album, is now available on CD here at the Paint Store and digitally on iTunes.
It's been quite the journey to get here and we are humlbed to share this album with you. Don't forget we're on tour all month in support!
8.30.2011: Where We Were in April (Official Documentary)
Filmed in April 2011 at Catherine North Studios and The White House, Where We Were in April captures an intimate and in-depth look at Paint in the studio working on their forthcoming album, Where We Are Today. Photographed and edited by Tyler Cardy and Robb Johannes, the documentary is streaming now on Paint's Official YouTube Channel.
A limited-run DVD of the film can be purchased in the Paint Store
8.29.2011: New song clips
Use the LISTEN button above to hear the last three audio teasers from the new album: "Boomerang," "Let Go," and "Vampires."
Where We Are Today will be available next Tuesday, September 6th on CD and mp3.
Check back tomorrow for an important documentary announcement!
8.23.2011: "Girl in a Frame" single available now!
"Girl in a Frame," the first single from Where We Are Today, is now available for sale on iTunes. Click HERE to buy.
Help spread the word about the single by inviting people to this event on Facebook.
Also, as we've been adding teaser clips from the rest of the album, use the LISTEN button above to hear two more: "She Leaves" and "Gastown."
The entire album will be available on CD and digital sellers on September 6. Pre-orders can be made HERE.
The final batch of studio photos from album recording sessions are up on Paint's Flickr Photostream.
8.22.2011: In Honour of Jack Layton
This morning our nation lost of its brightest stars and true patriots. Today we mourn the passing of federal NDP leader and Toronto-Danforth MP Jack Layton to cancer. This is a tremendous loss for Canada and Robb and Andre's local community in Toronto. Mr. Layton was a passionate and genuine man deeply committed to his country and its people. A rare bird and shining spark of hope in an ominous landscape. Condolences to Olivia Chow and the rest of Mr. Layton's family.
8.18.2011: "Girl in a Frame" advanced video review
The music video for "Girl in a Frame," the first single from Where We Are Today has been reviewed by The Blanket Reviewer: "Visually, it's simple, it's fun and the fact that it's representative of my city and the cool/diverse people in it, makes me proud to be from Toronto."
Read more on the Press page.
8.17.2011: NOW Magazine article on postering in Toronto
Thanks to Ben Spurr of NOW Magazine in Toronto for discussing the recent postering injunction against C'est What? with all involved parties, including Robb Johannes of Paint. Read the article HERE. A court date for the formal hearing has been set for November 28.
8.15.2011: "Girl in a Frame" single announcement, new audio clips and photos
"Girl in a Frame," the first single from Where We Are Today, will be available for sale on iTunes August 23.
Behind-the-scenes photos from the video shoot are on Paint's Flickr Photostream.
Also, use the LISTEN button above to hear audio clips from two more songs from the album: "Home" and "In Disguise."
Last but not least, 10 new studio photos from album recording sessions are up on Paint's Flickr Photostream.
Happy Monday!
8.12.2011: SURPRISE! Secret Show Tonight at the El Mocambo
Not a surprise anymore, Paint will be on stage tonight at the El Mocambo (464 Spadina, Toronto), 9:30 sharp set time. You can get in for free if you RSVP "Attending" to this event on Facebook. Not to give away any more secrets but you'll probably never see a Paint show like this one again. Come to the El Mo and find out why.
8.11.2011: New Blog Post, "A Small Cost to Posting Bills"
The City of Toronto under Rob Ford's direction recently fined a local venue for posters promoting Paint shows. Robb's written a blog with more info and an open call to musicians and artists to join him and the venue management in court on August 15th.
Visit Paint's Weblog to read.
8.8.2011: New Song Clips, Photos, and Documentary Announcement
Have a listen above to clips from 2 more songs from Where We Are Today: "End of the Reel" and "If The Walls Could Talk."
There are also two more sets of photos for your enjoyment: 1) The next batch of in-studio photos from the Where We Are Today (Click HERE); and 2) behind-the-scenes photos from the "Girl in a Frame" music video shoot (Click HERE)
And last but certainly not least, Tyler Cardy and Robb Johannes have completed a 30-minute documentary entitled Where We Were In April, which presents an intimate, raw, and insightful look at Paint in the studio working on the new record. The documentary will be officially launched on Tuesday, August 30 on Paint's Official YouTube Channel.
8.1.2011: Listen to "Girl in a Frame" now! (plus more photos)
Use the little "LISTEN" button in the top left corner to hear "Girl in a Frame," the first single from Where We Are Today. Each week between now and the album's Sept. 6 release, we will be uploading clips from 2 different album tracks.
And of course, we will continue to release 10 new photos from the studio each week as well. This week is no different. Visit The Official Paint Photostream on Flickr for the latest shots (the ones at the end).
Pre-order Where We Are Today here at the Paint Store.
7.29.2011: Pearl Jam vs. Nirvana videos up
Thanks to everyone who attended Two Way Monologues' "Pearl Jam vs. Nirvana" Tribute Night at Rancho Relaxo in Toronto. As a special treat, you can watch Paint's renditions of "Corduroy," "Hail, Hail," "Down," "Better Man," and "Leavin' Here" on The Official Paint YouTube Channel. A rare glimpse at a band so focused on playing its own music, having an out-of-body experience for one special night.
7.28.2011: Exclusive Premiere of "Girl in a Frame" single tomorrow
Visit www.soundfm.ca from any computer in the world (or CKMS 100.3 in Waterloo) on Friday, July 29 between 12noon and 2:00p.m. EDT to hear "Girl in a Frame," the first single from Where We Are Today, for the first time. The single will be accompanied by an interview with Robb and Mandy from North by Northeast. Thanks to SoundFM for their continued support and we look forward to sharing the first sneak peek of the album with you all!
Audio and video clips will be released soon, stay tuned...
7.25.2011: Studio Photos, Next Round
Visit The Official Paint Flickr Photostream for the latest round of 10 behind-the-scenes photos from the Where We Are Today recording sessions. More will go up next Monday. Also, expect some shots from the "Girl in a Frame" music video shoot and some audio clips very soon!
7.20.2011: Casting Call for music video
If you find yourself free in Toronto on Saturday, July 23 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Paint will be shooting the first music video for the Where We Are Today album in and around the Annex. Email thepaintband [at] gmail.com if you're interested in being one of 20-some-odd people running with the band through the streets.
7.18.2011: Next Round of Studio Shots
Ten new photos the Where We Are Today recording sessions are available now on The Official Paint Flickr Photostream. Check back next Monday for more, and other updates in between.
7.11.2011: More Studio Shots
As promised, 10 more photos from Paint's Where We Are Today recording sessions are available now on The Official Paint Flickr Photostream. More will go up next week!
7.8.2011: Photos from Pride at the Bovine
Shots from July 2 at the Bovine in Toronto for Pride 2011 are up now on The Official Paint Flickr Photostream.
7.5.2011: New Blog Post, "The Artist Looked at the Producer..."
With an obvious nod to Neil Young in its title, Robb has written a first blog with some reflections on the band's relationship wit producer Ian Smith during the recording of Where We Are Today. Visit Paint's Weblog to read.
7.4.2011: Welcome to the New Website
Welcome to www.paintband.com, our new internet home!
We are proud to annouce that our new album, Where We Are Today, will be available in stores and online September 6, 2011.
Where We Are Today was produced by Ian Smith at Catherine North Studios (City and Colour, Feist, Gord Downie), and mastered by Joe Lambert in Brooklyn, NY (Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Social Distortion, Bright Eyes, The Trews).
Over the next 2 months we will be revealing 10 new behind-the-scenes photos on Paint's Official Flickr Photostream each week (the first batch is available now), as well as exclusive audio previews, and Canadian tour dates.
Pre-order Where We Are Today right here at the Official Paint Store.