Love him or hate him, and its entirely possible to do both within the same song, theres no denying that BA Johnston is a man of the people. For his first concert video, the Hamilton native invited musical friends to old haunt Gus Pub, a venerable establishment in Halifaxs north end, to celebrate his own birthday. So, rather than a straight dose of Johnstons earnest silliness and self-admitted gimmickry, viewers get a good glimpse of a varied and talented Maritime music community as well. The Just Barelys "(s)kills charms and Old Man Ludeckes "Yodelady captivates. Hardcore combo Die Brucke tear shit up and popsters the Stance and Maynards are equally energetic but nothing tops the spirit of Windom Earle, whose post-punk "Get On Into It is the highlight. Thats not to short-change the host, as BA riles the crowd up on "Sleeping with My Walkman and takes to the streets shirtless for a heartfelt "Blinking Nintendo. Plus: commentary, drinking game, bonus performances.
(Just Friends)B.A. Johnston
This is what 100% Smells Like
BY Vish KhannaPublished Oct 12, 2007