Toronto’s live dance-party favourites, the Chameleon Project, are headlining The Bicycle Film Festival: Bikes Rock! at the Ex party at the CNE band shell.
'Hey, let's go to the Ex!'
After 14 months in the studio, crafting their highly acclaimed recent release, "if it takes all night”, the Chameleon Project are back to laying down some massive electronic-improv jams for their live audience. I recently spoke with bassist Snappy Homefry.
LM: Chameleon Project fills up some of Toronto’s bigger venues and was recently added to the high-caliber line up at this year’s Camp Bisco Festival in New York wasn't it? Why take time out to play a show for the benefit of Toronto’s cycling community?
SH: We are trying to cover as much ground as possible. We see all shows as equal opportunities to reach people. Word of mouth can be your greatest tool, as a band. In addition, this event is promoting cycling in Toronto which I personally feel is a great cause.
LM: Do you ride? Why or why not?
SH: I sure do! I ride because it’s cheap, because it’s a great physical outlet and it’s a great alternative means of transportation, especially in a city. I read somewhere that bikes are the most efficient mode of transportation...I like that. Just you, the bike and the energy you have stored in your body. Simple. Plus I am Dutch, I feel I have to ride.
LM: If you could change one thing about Toronto’s streets, what would it be?
SH: Well definitely more bike paths. In order for us (the city) to deal with some of the problems we are facing, for example air pollution and traffic congestion (which are clearly linked) we need to make it more attractive for people to make the cyclical choice to ride a bike in the city.
LM: As a professional musician, you must be required to travel fairly regularly. Do you and/or Chameleon Project make any attempt to minimize your environmental footprint? If so how?
SH: Its funny you asked that because Chameleon Project is playing Camp Bisco Music Festival in New York Sate and there are many people from the Toronto area that want to go to the festival. To help minimize our environmental footprint, we are organizing a bus to transport 20 to 30 peeps to the festival. While the price of oil today is a good catalyst, Chameleon Project is always trying to operate with a high level of efficiency.
LM: Thanks Snappy, I’m looking forward to your “Bikes Rock” set. Congratulations on the great response to “if it takes all night”. Your commitment to impeccable sound is evident. Nice touch, pressing this recording in vinyl as well.
Bikes Rock! At the Ex!
Bandshell Park, Exhibition Place/CNE Grounds
June 19, 2008 3:00-11:00pm
Let's bike to the Ex! The Ex and the Bicycle Film Festival are throwing a huge party to celebrate bikes. Come check out and compete in our BMX jam, listen to great live music, enjoy a burger and beer and learn about sustainable technologies at the Ex! Doors at 3pm, BMX Jam starts at 4pm.
Bands: Alistair Christl & The Swinging Chandeliers, Chameleon Project
DJs: Gabor
Also: BBQ, Bar, Raffle, BMX Jam
All welcome; Free admission.
Call 416.263.3300 for more information.
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