Updated: sing along with ‘Rebel Rebel’ and other David Bowie tributes in Vancouver

The loss of David Bowie has left a void in the hearts of many. To commemorate both his death and birth – Bowie was born Jan 8 1947 and died on Jan 10 last year – Vancouver musicians and music fans are paying tribute to the late British rock star this month with events devoted to his music.

Update: we have added three more events, Impromptu Rock Choir’s three-night Bowie singalong.

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Updated: sing along with ‘Rebel Rebel’ and other David Bowie tributes in Vancouver

Vancouver album releases pt. 1: year in review

Vancouver’s own White Lung. Photo by Rick Rodney.

For the third year in a row, we’re putting together what we hope is a fairly comprehensive look at notable album releases out of Vancouver. We’re looking at both high-profile albums as well as a selection of some of our favourites that might not have received the recognition they deserve.

But first, let’s start with an overview of the year in album releases. And any round-up of Vancouver music in 2016 must, rightfully, start off with the band that not only made more critics’ year-end best-of lists than any other Vancouver act, but which appeared on more lists than any other punk rock group, period.

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Vancouver album releases pt. 1: year in review

Musicians showcase new material at Railtown Sessions Vinyl Release

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Sarah Jane Scouten plays the Fox Cabaret as part of a record release party for the Railtown Sessions this Friday night.

Every few months over the last year, a small group of musicians and music fans have been coming together at a little recording studio in East Vancouver.

The occasions have been the Railtown Sessions, intimate shows at the headquarters of local record label Light Organ. At the Sessions, local musicians have debuted material to small audiences, as well as for Internet listeners via livestreaming.

All of the Sessions were also recorded. This Friday, Dec. 9, the four acts showcased play the Fox Cabaret (2321 Main St.) to celebrate the release of a record of those songs. Scroll below to find out more about the talent involved.

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Musicians showcase new material at Railtown Sessions Vinyl Release

Psyche-rock rescue mission this weekend!

Black Mountain at Levitation Vancouver 2015. Audrey Alexandrescu photo for thesnipenews.com.

Black Mountain at Levitation Vancouver 2015.
Audrey Alexandrescu photo for thesnipenews.com.

This Sunday offers a rare chance to see some of Vancouver’s top indie musicians on one stage, in a Dec. 4 benefit to raise money for one of their own.

Black Mountain is an internationally acclaimed psyche-rock unit from Vancouver. But, as the band learned on a recent European tour, glowing 7.5 reviews from music authorities like pitchfork.com are no protection against malfeasance and theft.

On a tour stop in Gothenburg, Black Mountain were dealt a major setback when thieves made off with a bunch of the band’s gear, including synths, guitars and more. To help out, musician friends of the group are taking part in a benefit at the Cobalt (917 Main. St.) to raise money for the band.

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Psyche-rock rescue mission this weekend!

Five must-see acts at the 2016 International Pop Overthrow Festival in Vancouver

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China Syndrome is one of the many local bands playing the annual International Pop Overthrow Festival this week.

The International Pop Overthrow Festival is an annual Vancouver tradition that features some of the city’s best independent pop and rock bands. This year, audiences will be treated to more than 25 acts over four nights. Here are some highlights, along with the full lineup. All shows are at the Fairview Pub (898. W. Broadway).

The $10 admission includes a copy of a compilation (65 Songs on a three-disc set, while supplies last) featuring many of this year’s performers.

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Five must-see acts at the 2016 International Pop Overthrow Festival in Vancouver

Girl revolution now! Young musicians showcased at Girls Rock Camp Vancouver this Saturday

Scene from previous Girls Rock Camp Vancouver. Photo courtesy Sarah Race Photography.

Scene from previous Girls Rock Camp Vancouver. Photo courtesy Sarah Race Photography.

This Saturday, eight exciting, new bands take the stage at the 2016 Girls Rock Camp Vancouver showcase.

The camp brings girls from ages eight to 17 together to teach them new skills. At the end of an intensive week of learning, the girls form bands. This is the fifth Girls Rock Camp since the Vancouver chapter of the organization came into being six years ago. So what can you expect?

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Girl revolution now! Young musicians showcased at Girls Rock Camp Vancouver this Saturday

Five more must-see acts at this year’s Vancouver Folk Music Festival!

Twin Bandit is among several Vancouver acts playing this year's folk fest.

Twin Bandit is among several Vancouver acts playing this year’s folk fest.

For part two of our 2016 Vancouver Folk Music Festival coverage, we’re looking at five more must-see acts during the three-day event. (See five more must-see VFMF acts here.)

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Five more must-see acts at this year’s Vancouver Folk Music Festival!