Happy New Year everyone. This new year brings new things, namely new albums.
The new Devin Townsend Band album, Synchestra is scheduled for release
January 27-30 depending on where you live.
There are two versions of this release, the CD version which has 14 songs
(13 listed, one “secret†track) and a Special Edition that includes the CD
version as well as a DVD with an intimate in-studio live performance, a
video for the song “Stormâ€Â, and a funny collection of tour clips assembled
by DTB member Brian Waddell. It also comes with a hidden “Easter egg†that
is definitely worth seeking out. Inside Out’s European version comes in
digipack format, the HevyDevy version comes in a double jewel case, both
with expanded artwork done by HDR webmaster, the amazing Geoff Rousselot.
Also, all DVD versions are NTSC format which Inside Out says is no longer an
issue for Europe, that European DVD players can now do both.
HevyDevy’s Synchestra CD is available for preorder now, or direct order Jan
23. The European DVD edition is also ready for pre-order now and the HDR
version will follow approximately Feb 10. Notes on pre-order: It must be
done through PayPal before Jan 20, after the 20th the website will be open
for orders. Shipping will begin Jan 23rd but due to the post may arrive
after the release date. Also, I can only package them up so fast so the
first ones ordered are the first sent. Price depends on where you live
(postage is included) so check the website for that information. A video for
“Vampira†is set to be completed in March.
The Devin Townsend Band was offered a highly desirable slot on the USA
Opeth/Dark Tranquility tour in February. After becoming friends during the
Sounds of the Underground last summer Devin was eager to join the tour but
being seven weeks in length, he was unable to commit that much time. Opeth
were kind enough to allow the band to take only part of the tour and those
dates are as follows:
Feb 15th - Raleigh, NC - Lincoln Theatre
16th - Norfolk, VA - The Norva
17th - Towson, MD - Recher Theatre
18th - Millvale, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
19th - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts
20th - Louisville, KY - Headliner's Music Hall
21st - Columbus, OH Newport Music Hall
24th - Hartford, CT - Webster Theatre
25th - Providence, RI - Heartbreak Hotels
26th - Quebec City, QC - Imperial
28th - London, ON - The Drink Nightclub
There are also 3 separate dates. These are:
Feb 11th - Vancouver, BC - Red Room - headlining
Feb 23rd – Springfield, VA – with Dark Tranquility
Feb 27th – Toronto, ON - headlining
The reason that Devin was unable to commit to the full seven weeks is that
he is already hard at work writing the next Strapping Young Lad album. The
band is rehearsing daily and are set to begin recording early March for a
summer release.
For those who are into that sort of thing we have recently created a DTB
page on myspace.com. We plan to add to it as time goes on with pictures and
news. Here you can also hear an mp3 of “Gaia†from Synchestra. The address
is http://www.myspace.com/devintownsenddtb. Beware other pages on that site as
there are a few imposters that we have been trying to get rid of. Devin will
likely not be posting much but I will do my best to keep it up to date.
HDR has decided to significantly reduce the stock we carry. This will result
in a discontinuation of many of the shirt lines we have and much of what we
have now will not be re-ordered. You may have already noticed that many
items in the store are marked "SOLD OUT". After much discussion, it is
apparent that currently we are putting everything we earn into maintaining
this massive stockpile that as time goes on keeps getting bigger and harder
to manage. So, we need to simplify. We have also decided to stop carrying
hoodies entirely. Due to yet ANOTHER Canada Post price increase Jan 16,
postage for a hoodie overseas is going up to $27.55!!! While popular, they
are too costly to produce and ship. We have already added some items to the
Ebay store that can be had for cheaper than the website. The Ebay store is
http://stores.ebay.com/hevydevyrecords. Others will be added there over
time. Input is welcome.
This issue’s contest… We have five SYL “Alien†2-song (Shitstorm & Love?)
promotional CDs, and SYL stickers to give away. The trivia question is…
What movie was the inspiration for SYL’s Love? video? a) Evil Dead b)
Halloween c) Psycho d) Nightmare on Elm Street e) March of the Penguins.
The rules: All entries with a correct answer to the trivia question will be
added to the contest bucket for lottery draw on March 29, 2006. Please send
your answer along with your mailing address –I cannot accept entries that do
not include a mailing address. You may enter as many times as you like but
only one entry per person allowed by email. Fax, email, and snail mail
entries are permitted but must be received by midnight March 30, 2006.
For last issue’s contest winners… The trivia question was… Which of the
following songs does not have a video? a) Life b) Christeen c) S.Y.L.
d) Underneath the Waves e) Storm. The correct answer is D. The winners are
1. Jan, Sweden 2. Mike, NY, USA 3. Kelly, CA, USA. See you next issue!
Tracy
)
Devin’s commentary on ‘Synchestra’
(also posted on the HDR web forum)
Let it Roll - Is in two parts. It starts the record in a subtle way. In
fact, the first 2 tracks (LiR and the beginning of Hypergeek) are
essentially long intros. Most of the records I do smack you in the face on
the first song but the climax of Synchestra is the 11th song, 'A Simple
Lullaby'. Synchestra makes you wait for it. The story is about finding
certain answers to life questions as a result of going too far - 'be careful
what you wish for' and the way that reacts with a sensitive mind. Humility.
Let it roll basically says just that. It is a resignation, almost like; 'I
blew it...but there’s nothing I can do about it now, so let it roll.'
Hypergeek - The intro is the wake up call, roosters and frogs and birds,
with the words 'wake up' and 'joy' ending with a conductor that starts the
whole thing officially with double kick about a minute in. Hypergeek is
actually instrumental, but starts things off with a bit of a bang (it
doesn't really let go though...again, it makes you wait.) This is the first
scene.
Triumph - A subtle realization. 'One word - collective' there is a sense of
relief in letting it roll, an apprehensive joy, things from the past
culminating in a genuine present. Steve Vai plays on this song for a reason,
peace is made with the past. Brave enough to make a step.
The Baby Song - references to Infinity, as well as a sober alternative to
'Possessions' off of Alien. I'm 33 and this concept is a biggie in my life.
This is the only song on the record that is a little 'precious' - it evokes
a touch of weirdness, especially when the melody returns at the end in a
minor key. It's a Heavy Metal Lullaby that is intended to start the
questioning again after a re-awakening. A sober part of reality that needs
to be addressed at this age.
Vampolka - a polka prelude to Vampira to essentially lighten the mood after
the baby song and set the stage for the transition song on the record,
Vampira.
Vampira - The single, the attention getter for those who don't have the
patience for the whole thing, but as such serves a definite purpose. It's
essentially about over-dramatizing the negative aspects of life, a real
fop-ish 'woe is me' attitude, personifying the dark aspects of the reality
of a current situation as an entity named 'Vampira'. A Judas Priest-esque
rocker that is supposed to be a comedic version of the SYL energy.
'Night...follows me when you're gone, and now...how am I to carry on?' A
parody of that side.
Mental Tan - the second awakening, a mellow soundscape that occurs after the
smoke has cleared from Vampira, the only lyrics 'Oh my God I'm one...' this
is the transition point on the record from re-awakening into reality and
actually finding your place in it. The main melody is a major version of the
theme that appears at the end of the song 'Judgment'
Gaia - Concern for the earth, personified with the name Gaia, the feminine
energy of a sentient being that we abuse daily. 'Send the message to Gaia,
the air is getting thin' Analysis of selfish existence, and the beginning of
a downward spiral of guilt. Being awake in a beautiful, vibrant reality and
feeling that on some level you've neglected it all for the sake of things
that are ultimately destructive and self absorbed...
Pixillate - A cry to God, Infinity, The Devil, whatever your poison is, to
say 'I'M A FUCKING IDIOT, I CAN'T BELIEVE WHAT I'VE DONE, I CAN'T BELIEVE
WHAT I'VE STOOD FOR, I DON'T DESERVE ANY OF THIS, I DON'T DESERVE ANY OF IT'
A moment of clarity into a fallible human existence, compared to the majesty
of nature, all we do is gauche and simple. The song is a lumbering beast
that is supposed to beat that message in. The record at this point starts to
get more emotionally involved. This song asks the question.
Judgment - The answer comes, 'YES, you ARE a fucking idiot... but that’s OK,
you're human, and that’s where the beauty of humans lie, in their duality.
Know that you are fallible, and continue with that knowledge and make it
work... NOW FUCKING BOW.' the song ends with the minor melody from Mental
Tan, and the pulse of Pixillate, almost like a momentary set up for the
climax of the record.
A Simple Lullaby - The celebration...500,000 people, prayers and rejoicing
during a PAINFULLY long intro (again, it makes you wait.) This song is the
celebration, the liberation, and the summary of the questioning. Cannons,
Fireworks...you name it.
Sunset - This is where the credits roll, and people collect their bags on
the way out of the theatre. A coffee after the dinner. It is a great way to
release the energy of the prior songs. It keeps going and subtly builds the
tension for the summary song, for the people that choose to stay seated.
Notes From Africa - Summarizes the whole damn thing. References and opposes
'Love?' from Alien, and really hammers the point of the record home. A real
solid groove and a VERY STRANGE MELODY that has been in my head since
Infinity. It fades out into echoes that put you in a 5 minute jungle scape
after the song is over - We went to an indoor rainforest and taped the
sounds of the waterfalls and birds. By this point of the record, I just
wanted people to be in a tropical paradise for a few minutes. It's warm and
beautiful. Technically, the record is over...
EXCEPT… Sunshine And Happiness - If you stick around in the jungle for
awhile, this song comes in. What is it supposed to represent? Nothing. If
anything, it's just supposed to be the happiest song EVER. To leave you with
a smile. Dave played all of the guitar, Mike and Brian do guest vocals. It
is supposed to wrap up the record on a note that doesn't take itself too
seriously... 'If you say it's up to me to make the call, well I would say
SUNSHINE AND HAPPINESS FOR ALL!!!'
Dev.
The new Devin Townsend Band album, Synchestra is scheduled for release
January 27-30 depending on where you live.
There are two versions of this release, the CD version which has 14 songs
(13 listed, one “secret†track) and a Special Edition that includes the CD
version as well as a DVD with an intimate in-studio live performance, a
video for the song “Stormâ€Â, and a funny collection of tour clips assembled
by DTB member Brian Waddell. It also comes with a hidden “Easter egg†that
is definitely worth seeking out. Inside Out’s European version comes in
digipack format, the HevyDevy version comes in a double jewel case, both
with expanded artwork done by HDR webmaster, the amazing Geoff Rousselot.
Also, all DVD versions are NTSC format which Inside Out says is no longer an
issue for Europe, that European DVD players can now do both.
HevyDevy’s Synchestra CD is available for preorder now, or direct order Jan
23. The European DVD edition is also ready for pre-order now and the HDR
version will follow approximately Feb 10. Notes on pre-order: It must be
done through PayPal before Jan 20, after the 20th the website will be open
for orders. Shipping will begin Jan 23rd but due to the post may arrive
after the release date. Also, I can only package them up so fast so the
first ones ordered are the first sent. Price depends on where you live
(postage is included) so check the website for that information. A video for
“Vampira†is set to be completed in March.
The Devin Townsend Band was offered a highly desirable slot on the USA
Opeth/Dark Tranquility tour in February. After becoming friends during the
Sounds of the Underground last summer Devin was eager to join the tour but
being seven weeks in length, he was unable to commit that much time. Opeth
were kind enough to allow the band to take only part of the tour and those
dates are as follows:
Feb 15th - Raleigh, NC - Lincoln Theatre
16th - Norfolk, VA - The Norva
17th - Towson, MD - Recher Theatre
18th - Millvale, PA - Mr. Small's Theatre
19th - Cincinnati, OH - Bogarts
20th - Louisville, KY - Headliner's Music Hall
21st - Columbus, OH Newport Music Hall
24th - Hartford, CT - Webster Theatre
25th - Providence, RI - Heartbreak Hotels
26th - Quebec City, QC - Imperial
28th - London, ON - The Drink Nightclub
There are also 3 separate dates. These are:
Feb 11th - Vancouver, BC - Red Room - headlining
Feb 23rd – Springfield, VA – with Dark Tranquility
Feb 27th – Toronto, ON - headlining
The reason that Devin was unable to commit to the full seven weeks is that
he is already hard at work writing the next Strapping Young Lad album. The
band is rehearsing daily and are set to begin recording early March for a
summer release.
For those who are into that sort of thing we have recently created a DTB
page on myspace.com. We plan to add to it as time goes on with pictures and
news. Here you can also hear an mp3 of “Gaia†from Synchestra. The address
is http://www.myspace.com/devintownsenddtb. Beware other pages on that site as
there are a few imposters that we have been trying to get rid of. Devin will
likely not be posting much but I will do my best to keep it up to date.
HDR has decided to significantly reduce the stock we carry. This will result
in a discontinuation of many of the shirt lines we have and much of what we
have now will not be re-ordered. You may have already noticed that many
items in the store are marked "SOLD OUT". After much discussion, it is
apparent that currently we are putting everything we earn into maintaining
this massive stockpile that as time goes on keeps getting bigger and harder
to manage. So, we need to simplify. We have also decided to stop carrying
hoodies entirely. Due to yet ANOTHER Canada Post price increase Jan 16,
postage for a hoodie overseas is going up to $27.55!!! While popular, they
are too costly to produce and ship. We have already added some items to the
Ebay store that can be had for cheaper than the website. The Ebay store is
http://stores.ebay.com/hevydevyrecords. Others will be added there over
time. Input is welcome.
This issue’s contest… We have five SYL “Alien†2-song (Shitstorm & Love?)
promotional CDs, and SYL stickers to give away. The trivia question is…
What movie was the inspiration for SYL’s Love? video? a) Evil Dead b)
Halloween c) Psycho d) Nightmare on Elm Street e) March of the Penguins.
The rules: All entries with a correct answer to the trivia question will be
added to the contest bucket for lottery draw on March 29, 2006. Please send
your answer along with your mailing address –I cannot accept entries that do
not include a mailing address. You may enter as many times as you like but
only one entry per person allowed by email. Fax, email, and snail mail
entries are permitted but must be received by midnight March 30, 2006.
For last issue’s contest winners… The trivia question was… Which of the
following songs does not have a video? a) Life b) Christeen c) S.Y.L.
d) Underneath the Waves e) Storm. The correct answer is D. The winners are
1. Jan, Sweden 2. Mike, NY, USA 3. Kelly, CA, USA. See you next issue!
Tracy
)
Devin’s commentary on ‘Synchestra’
(also posted on the HDR web forum)
Let it Roll - Is in two parts. It starts the record in a subtle way. In
fact, the first 2 tracks (LiR and the beginning of Hypergeek) are
essentially long intros. Most of the records I do smack you in the face on
the first song but the climax of Synchestra is the 11th song, 'A Simple
Lullaby'. Synchestra makes you wait for it. The story is about finding
certain answers to life questions as a result of going too far - 'be careful
what you wish for' and the way that reacts with a sensitive mind. Humility.
Let it roll basically says just that. It is a resignation, almost like; 'I
blew it...but there’s nothing I can do about it now, so let it roll.'
Hypergeek - The intro is the wake up call, roosters and frogs and birds,
with the words 'wake up' and 'joy' ending with a conductor that starts the
whole thing officially with double kick about a minute in. Hypergeek is
actually instrumental, but starts things off with a bit of a bang (it
doesn't really let go though...again, it makes you wait.) This is the first
scene.
Triumph - A subtle realization. 'One word - collective' there is a sense of
relief in letting it roll, an apprehensive joy, things from the past
culminating in a genuine present. Steve Vai plays on this song for a reason,
peace is made with the past. Brave enough to make a step.
The Baby Song - references to Infinity, as well as a sober alternative to
'Possessions' off of Alien. I'm 33 and this concept is a biggie in my life.
This is the only song on the record that is a little 'precious' - it evokes
a touch of weirdness, especially when the melody returns at the end in a
minor key. It's a Heavy Metal Lullaby that is intended to start the
questioning again after a re-awakening. A sober part of reality that needs
to be addressed at this age.
Vampolka - a polka prelude to Vampira to essentially lighten the mood after
the baby song and set the stage for the transition song on the record,
Vampira.
Vampira - The single, the attention getter for those who don't have the
patience for the whole thing, but as such serves a definite purpose. It's
essentially about over-dramatizing the negative aspects of life, a real
fop-ish 'woe is me' attitude, personifying the dark aspects of the reality
of a current situation as an entity named 'Vampira'. A Judas Priest-esque
rocker that is supposed to be a comedic version of the SYL energy.
'Night...follows me when you're gone, and now...how am I to carry on?' A
parody of that side.
Mental Tan - the second awakening, a mellow soundscape that occurs after the
smoke has cleared from Vampira, the only lyrics 'Oh my God I'm one...' this
is the transition point on the record from re-awakening into reality and
actually finding your place in it. The main melody is a major version of the
theme that appears at the end of the song 'Judgment'
Gaia - Concern for the earth, personified with the name Gaia, the feminine
energy of a sentient being that we abuse daily. 'Send the message to Gaia,
the air is getting thin' Analysis of selfish existence, and the beginning of
a downward spiral of guilt. Being awake in a beautiful, vibrant reality and
feeling that on some level you've neglected it all for the sake of things
that are ultimately destructive and self absorbed...
Pixillate - A cry to God, Infinity, The Devil, whatever your poison is, to
say 'I'M A FUCKING IDIOT, I CAN'T BELIEVE WHAT I'VE DONE, I CAN'T BELIEVE
WHAT I'VE STOOD FOR, I DON'T DESERVE ANY OF THIS, I DON'T DESERVE ANY OF IT'
A moment of clarity into a fallible human existence, compared to the majesty
of nature, all we do is gauche and simple. The song is a lumbering beast
that is supposed to beat that message in. The record at this point starts to
get more emotionally involved. This song asks the question.
Judgment - The answer comes, 'YES, you ARE a fucking idiot... but that’s OK,
you're human, and that’s where the beauty of humans lie, in their duality.
Know that you are fallible, and continue with that knowledge and make it
work... NOW FUCKING BOW.' the song ends with the minor melody from Mental
Tan, and the pulse of Pixillate, almost like a momentary set up for the
climax of the record.
A Simple Lullaby - The celebration...500,000 people, prayers and rejoicing
during a PAINFULLY long intro (again, it makes you wait.) This song is the
celebration, the liberation, and the summary of the questioning. Cannons,
Fireworks...you name it.
Sunset - This is where the credits roll, and people collect their bags on
the way out of the theatre. A coffee after the dinner. It is a great way to
release the energy of the prior songs. It keeps going and subtly builds the
tension for the summary song, for the people that choose to stay seated.
Notes From Africa - Summarizes the whole damn thing. References and opposes
'Love?' from Alien, and really hammers the point of the record home. A real
solid groove and a VERY STRANGE MELODY that has been in my head since
Infinity. It fades out into echoes that put you in a 5 minute jungle scape
after the song is over - We went to an indoor rainforest and taped the
sounds of the waterfalls and birds. By this point of the record, I just
wanted people to be in a tropical paradise for a few minutes. It's warm and
beautiful. Technically, the record is over...
EXCEPT… Sunshine And Happiness - If you stick around in the jungle for
awhile, this song comes in. What is it supposed to represent? Nothing. If
anything, it's just supposed to be the happiest song EVER. To leave you with
a smile. Dave played all of the guitar, Mike and Brian do guest vocals. It
is supposed to wrap up the record on a note that doesn't take itself too
seriously... 'If you say it's up to me to make the call, well I would say
SUNSHINE AND HAPPINESS FOR ALL!!!'
Dev.
