Downtown Toronto
by David Jones

Greater Toronto REALTORS® reported a strong result of 10,350 transactions recorded through the Toronto MLS System for the month of April. Toronto average home sale prices continued to increase by more than 8.5 per cent year-over-year, even though the increase was marginally lower than the increases in February and March. The average price for April 2012 transactions was $517,556, including houses and condos in the Greater Toronto Area.

Price increases and competition were strongest for single-detached homes. Across the GTA, their prices were up by around 9 per cent. Resale prices at the condo market were increased by 4 per cent. The condo market is generally better supplied with inventory, a result of new construction continuing.

“Interest in single-detached homes has been very high, both in the City of Toronto and surrounding regions. Growth in single-detached listings has not kept up with demand, which means competition between buyers in this market segment increased. With this in mind, it was no surprise that the strongest annual price increase was also experienced in the single-detached segment,” explained Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver.

Buyers were not deterred by continuing low rates. The board emphasized that mortgage rates, still very close to the low levels earlier this year, are driving the market.

“Monthly mortgage payments remain affordable for home buyers in the Greater Toronto Area. While interest rates are generally expected to increase over the next two years, the extent and timing of rate hikes has been thrown into question by slower than expected economic growth in the first quarter of this year. On net, borrowing costs are expected to remain a positive factor influencing home sales through 2012,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis.

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Epicenter of Banking
in Canada by Jeff

The Bank of Canada announced again that it is maintaining its target for the overnight rate at 1 per cent and there is no real chance it will increase it in next decisions. Some even believe that the Bank will have to decrease the rate to 0.75 per cent. Meanwhile, the debt-to-income ratio is still far from safe levels, and discussions about a sharp decline in housing prices are getting hotter. Specialists came up with the only logical solution: more regulation in the mortgage market.

Unfavourable Statistics

The debt-to-income ratio among Canadian households fell in the fourth quarter of last year to 152.9 per cent from 154.2 per cent. The reason wasn’t decreasing debt but income for farms and unincorporated businesses that rose at a faster pace. “Household net worth was up nearly 1 per cent in the fourth quarter, led by gains in the values of household holdings of equities (including mutual funds) and pension assets,” Statistics Canada informed. “Household credit market debt increased in the fourth quarter despite a slower rate of borrowing in consumer credit and mortgages.”

According to a report released by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), only 42 per cent of homeowners in Canada are mortgage-free. According to a report by CIBC World Markets Inc., the surge in Canadian borrowing over the last five years has been driven by the most indebted households. Households heavily dependent on borrowing now hold 73 per cent of all household debt in Canada.

Household by Jofo2005

“Some 34 per cent of households that have debt are now in the high debt burden category and they account for nearly three-quarters of household debt outstanding,” added Avery Shenfeld, Chief Economist at CIBC.

Despite several warnings in the media, Canadians have no reason to be discouraged. The mortgage rates are still at historic low levels and banks are playing a risky game: who will offer the lowest mortgage rate? Bank of Montreal currently offers a 2.99 per cent five-year mortgage rate, the lowest five-year rate in modern Canadian history.

Regulation Needed

Craig Alexander, chief economist at TD Bank, says that the government should step in to the housing market again and gradually roll out a series of steps. “We want to ensure that the imbalance we have doesn’t get any bigger, so the economy over the medium term can weather the inevitable future adjustment in interest rates,” Alexander said in an interview for The Globe and Mail. “If we incrementally lean against credit growth while we have low rates, it will be a better outcome for the economy.”

Meanwhile, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) released a draft paper that suggests several changes to mortgage underwriting practices and procedures. Experts are already concerned that if the changes were implemented, it would significantly change the whole mortgage market. It is currently open for public comment.

Knox House Toronto
by Jason Vanderhill

In February, home prices in Toronto grew more than economists predicted and some warnings that the forecasts for 2012 would have to be revised appeared almost immediately. What do the specialists say about the future of Canada’s and Toronto’s real estate markets?

Toronto Real Estate Board informed that in February 2012, the average selling price in the TREB area was up 11 per cent ($502,508) compared to February 2011. The Home Price Index, a less volatile measure of price growth, grew by 7.3 per cent.

“With slightly more than two months of inventory in the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) market area, on average, it is not surprising that competition between buyers has exerted very strong upward pressure on the average selling price. Price growth will continue to be very strong until the market becomes better supplied,” said TREB’s President Richard Silver.

Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis, also noted that if tight market conditions go on bringing higher than expected price growth in the coming months, predictions for 2012 as a whole will have to be revised upwards. Sixty nine sales were sold for more than $2,000,000, while 65 sales of detached houses and 4 sales of condo apartments did the same. The average price for detached houses is $638,080, i.e. 127 per cent of average house prices in Toronto. All other housing types remain under the total average except for detached condos (only one unit was sold in February for more than $1,000,000). The most expensive region was York Region, with an average price $584,973, and the cheapest was Dufferin County, with an average price $311,664.

According to the Bank of Nova Scotia, a “slowdown in global growth over the past year has sapped some of the strength from Canada’s formerly hot real estate sector, particularly in major urban centres such as Vancouver and Toronto.”

Adrienne Warren, Scotiabank senior economist and real estate specialist, claims that homes are likely overvalued by as much as 15 per cent due to an extended period of rising prices and low mortgage rates, but she is not afraid of the disastrous situation resembling the U.S. housing bubble crash. “I don’t think there’s a big risk of a big price correction,” she said.

Real Estate
by Debbie Small

Greater Toronto REALTORS® released sales statistics for February 2012 and showed the month was another very strong one for sales and prices in GTA. The number of sales exceeded the average for February for the first time since 2000. Historically, February is one of the busier months, and this year was no exception.

The Toronto Real Estate Board reported 7,032 sales for the month. This is a 16 per cent increase over the month a year earlier. However, it’s important to mention that there was one additional day in February, as 2012 is a leap year.

The February average sale price came in at $502,508 — up 10.6 per cent compared to the figure one year ago. The Composite MLS® Home Price Index for TREB was up by 7.3 per cent compared to February 2011. The number denotes a less volatile measure of price increase compared to the average price.

“With slightly more than two months of inventory in the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) market area, on average, it is not surprising that competition between buyers has exerted very strong upward pressure on the average selling price. Price growth will continue to be very strong until the market becomes better supplied,” explained Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver.

He also emphasized “that both buyers and sellers are aware of current market conditions“ that is according to him evidenced on the average listing sold for 99 per cent of original price. Data also showed that the average days on the market was 24, down from 27 a year earlier.

“If tight market conditions continue to result in higher than expected price growth as we move into the spring, expectations for 2012 as a whole will have to be revised upwards,” said Jason Mercer, TREB’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis. “While price growth remains strong, the average selling price remains affordable from a mortgage lending perspective for a household earning the average income in the GTA.”

Phil Soper, president of Brookfield Residential Real Estate Services, which operates Royal LePage, says, “There is really a lack of product. We expect that to pick up considerably, and by the end of March.”

“The national housing market is stabilizing and remains well balanced,” summarized Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) president Gary Morse. CREA warned that average price comparisons could become “volatile and may turn negative” in the coming months.

Some analysts also expect the entire winter market to have tight supply. Price increases of 2 to 5 per cent should occur in the upcoming period from now to the end of March.

The Rex Atmosphere

Looking for a new and exciting way to spend an evening in Toronto? Then a superb jazz bar should definitely be at the top of your list. Fortunately, The Rex, located at Queen and University, fits the bill perfectly. Its retro decor and casual feel make it the perfect place for a relaxed date night or fun outing with friends.

Menu

The Rex Selection

The atmosphere is quieter during lunch time, when there’s no live music, so it’s perfect for a quick meeting or to catch up with friends. They have fresh, daily specials to choose from, so there’s always something new to try. And because the place isn’t too packed, the service is quick and efficient. They have all the usual bar foods you would expect, such as nachos, wings, and burgers. And their open-faced portabello and goat cheese sandwich is particularly delicious. Their burgers and sandwiches can be paired with whichever side you prefer, so you can get your lunch just the way you want. Or for a sweet treat, try their White Chocolate Raspberry Brulée Cheesecake. Plus, everything is very decently priced, so you won’t have to worry about breaking the bank for a quick lunch.

Music

When the music starts is when The Rex really comes to life. Monday to Friday, there are at least two shows per evening, and there are musicians playing all day and night on the weekends. Sometimes they are Juno Award winners, sometimes they’re professional touring artists, and sometimes they’re up-and-coming students. No matter which group is on deck, you’re sure to be treated to music the likes of which you’ve never heard before. And there isn’t even a cover charge! The musicians simply circulate during the show, and you are welcome to contribute if you choose — which, given the incredible performances they provide, you are bound to want to do.

Hotel

The Rex Hotel and Blues
Bar by ActiveSteve

Above the restaurant and bar is a quaint boutique-style hotel. The rooms are on the small side, but with such a central location, it isn’t likely you’ll be staying cooped up in your room for too long. It’s located just minutes from the Eaton’s Centre and the shops along Queen Street West. Just a few steps will get you to Osgoode Station, from which you can get wherever you need to go in no time. And at just $110 a night, or less when you make reservations for three or more nights, you’ll have plenty left over to get in some quality sightseeing.

So whether you’re just visiting, or are happy to call Toronto your home, pay The Rex a visit for some good food, a lively atmosphere, and incredible tunes!

Contact

Email:
Address, Phone:
194 Queen St. West
416 598 2475
www: www.therex.ca

Old and New Toronto
by James Cridland

The lifespan of residential buildings is a question of utmost importance for every homeowner. Once you build or buy a new house, you expect that it will last for a while so that your children and grandchildren can live there. However, nowadays we often hear that modern houses aren’t built as well as they were in the past. New houses and residential buildings are being erected in vast numbers in a relatively short time by large contractors that specialize in a particular industry. People are skeptical, mainly due to cheap materials that constructors tend to use. However, there’s been a substantial technological development in engineering and construction that should result in reliable, longer-lasting buildings.

Old vs. Modern Houses

Most residential buildings built today rely on engineering principles more than massive and strong building materials. It’s therefore more likely that even small construction mistakes and errors will have a substantial impact on the house’s warranty and quality. Another important consideration is that these errors usually affect a larger extent of new residential buildings, as they are often built together over a short period of time. A huge warning indicator is the vast problem with houses of low standards in China that arose in 2010, after finding out that most of the new constructions won’t last more than 25 to 30 years, at which point they’ll essentially turn into a pile of dangerous garbage. Nobody would like to find himself in such a situation, with a house that starts to fall apart right after you pay off the loan.

It’s true that a century ago, homes were built of stout materials like old-growth timber, durable stones, slate, and brick. Old trees are much more dense than the younger ones that are used today due to the huge number of new constructions. Moreover, builders today are trying to keep the costs down so that more people can afford their houses. As a result, house affordability is substantially higher than in the past, but the quality of the cheapest houses very often drags behind.

Wooden Houses vs. Brick Houses

Brick House by Jennie
Faber

There are many external factors that determine the lifespan of a building, such as climate, maintenance, weather, location, and traffic. Choosing a house made of appropriate materials and components and taking proper care of it can substantially extend its life expectancy. Let’s compare houses made out of the two most common materials, wood and brick.

A brick house can easily last over 100 years, but so can a wooden house. However, houses made of wood are more prone to strong winds and fires and won’t last as long as brick houses in windy regions with strong precipitation. On the other hand, they are more flexible and therefore very common in regions with a high rate of earthquakes. The connection between location and building materials of your house is crucial for your home’s insurance rate. The main advantages of brick houses are that they require less maintenance, you don’t have to paint their exteriors, and they provide better insulation. On the other hand, they’re more expensive and the construction process is considerably longer.

Condo vs. Townhouse

Condos by Don Toye

The lifespan of a residential building is determined by several factors, such as its location, climate, weather, materials, and building type. There have been many debates about the life expectancy of condos and independent houses. Large cities are being crammed with new high-rise condominiums, especially Toronto, which is the world’s leader in the number of high-rise buildings under construction. The biggest advantage of condos is that they require significantly less maintenance than individual houses. On the other hand, the taller a building is, the more prone it is to the ravages of time and harsh environmental conditions, so the shorter its lifespan. A townhouse owner spends more time on maintenance and security issues, but she can be sure that her children and grandchildren will be able to live there.

Throw-away Buildings in Toronto

Recently, there’s been a controversial debate about the lifespan of glass condos in Toronto. Experts claim that these “throw-away buildings will fail 15 to 25 years after they’re built and will need retrofits costing millions of dollars.“ The main causes of this problem include insulation failures, water leaks, skyrocketing energy and maintenance costs, and declining resale potential. Glass walls are cheaper than other materials, and they create a good first impression; however, the hidden price is much higher than anyone would be willing to pay.

The main cause is the “wild“ temperature change during different seasons in Toronto. “The freeze-thaw cycle will eventually cause the sealant in the windows to fail, resulting in more hot & cool air getting into each unit.“ (Here’s a diagram that explains the failure of glass-wall condos.)

Life Span of Home Components

To avoid similar problems, you have to consider several questions before buying a condo or a house. A new house starts to wear out immediately after constructed. It’s therefore important to pay attention to the maintenance and lifespan of individual components. Their life expectancy depends on the quality of installation, level of maintenance, weather and climate conditions, and the intensity of use. The U.S. National Association of Home Builders released a study in 2007 that analyzes the life expectancies of different home components to which we should pay attention.

Roofing

Roof by Daniel R Blume

There’s no doubt that one of the most important components of each house that determines its lifespan is its roof. The life of a roof depends mainly on local weather conditions, material quality, proper building, design, and adequate maintenance. According to the study mentioned, slate, copper, and clay/concrete roofs have the longest life expectancy — over 50 years. Roofs made of asphalt shingles should survive for about 20 years, while roofs made of fibre cement shingles are expected to last for about 25 years, and roofs made of wood shakes should last for about 30 years.

Insulation

The study shows that there aren’t any substantial differences in the life expectancies of different insulation materials. All types of insulation should last a lifetime if they’re properly installed and maintained and are not punctured, cut, or burned.

Windows

Another very important question to consider is the material of your windows. The initial costs of both plastic and timber windows are similar. However, there’s a huge difference in their lifespans. Well maintained wooden windows can last for centuries, while plastic should be replaced every 20 to 30 years.

Paint

Generally, homes need to be painted every five to ten years depending on the quality of the paint, its exposure to moisture, weather conditions, traffic, etc. However, high-quality paints are expected to look good for as much as 20 years.

External Materials

Brickwork is often considered to be the most reliable external material. However, the reliability of bricks depends on the quality of work and climate more than any other materials. Once water gets through the brickwork, it starts to cause all kinds of problems behind it in the cavity, such as soggy insulation, damp patches inside the house, and rusting wall ties. On the other hand, properly installed brickwork is maintenance-free and very strong. Other alternatives have their pros and cons as well. Render is likely to start cracking. Tiles are prone to wind damage and cracking. Timber boarding can start to rot and needs more maintenance than other materials.

The Oldest Building in Toronto — The Scadding Cabin

Scadding Cabin by
Wikimedia Commons

It’s not surprising that the oldest building in Toronto is made of wood since it was the most common building material of that era. It proves, however, that not only houses made of sturdy materials such as bricks or stone will last long. This small building is located on the western grounds of the CNE, adjacent to the Fort Rouillé Monument. The Scadding Cabin was constructed in 1794 on behalf of John Scadding, who was a clerk in the office of the first lieutenant governor of Upper Canada, John Graves Simcoe. The original two-storey log cabin was disassembled from its original site and rebuilt by the York Pioneers at its current site for the Toronto Industrial Exhibition in 1879.

Night Lights of Toronto
by Laura M. Bailey

Last month, 4,567 sales were reported through the TorontoMLS® system by the Greater Toronto REALTORS®. The number was 8.8 per cent higher than January 2011. The sales of low-rise homes surrounding the City of Toronto grew at the highest rate.

Toronto Real Estate Board President Richard Silver commented on this increase: “A favourable affordability picture bolstered by very low posted fixed mortgage rates has kept home buyers confident in their ability to achieve the Canadian goal of home ownership.”

According to Silver, the structure of purchases remained diverse in the GTA and buyers were strongly interested in all home types.

The average selling price of the transactions reached $463,534 in the first month of 2012. This number is almost 9 per cent higher than in January 2011.

Jason Mercer, the Toronto Real Estate Board’s Senior Manager of Market Analysis, explained the market development: “Low inventory levels have kept competition between buyers strong, resulting in robust annual rates of price growth over the last year.“

Mercer expects the strong price growth to attract even more listings as a result of a better supplied market that slows down the rate of price growth. The increased number of the attracted listings should be especially notable in the second half of this year.

Dean and Dan Caten 
by Bruno Cordioli

Over time, fashion is becoming increasingly popular in Canada. Of course, Canadian cities cannot compete with the world’s trendiest fashion cities like New York, London, Paris, or Milan. On the other hand, Canada’s charm and the lifestyle of local people are reflected in what has become one of the most successful Canadian fashion labels in decades. This prestigious fashion label represents two unique personas, Dean and Dan Caten, or Dsquared2.

Biography

Dean and Dan, future fashion stars, were born and raised in the suburbs of Toronto. Fascinated by the charm of dresses, they have been inspired since childhood. The first inspiration was their own sister, for whom they began designing imaginative outfits even as little boys. One of their first professional stops was one of the most famous design schools, the Parsons School of Design in New York City. However, the key decision for their careers came in 1991, when they left for Italy, specifically to the fashion mecca of Milan. Before long, their undoubted talent was noticed by the most famous fashion designer of the era, and thus they began working with the most popular fashion house of Gianni Versace. Afterwards, they continued their successful careers with the renowned denim brand Diesel. In the year 1994, Dean and Dan set up their own label in Milan, where these fashion twins started to build the unique project called Dsquared2.

Fashion Identity

Dsquared2 by Satoshi 
Tomiyama

The fashion industry presents a very specific sector with the most competitive environment in the world. If you want to be successful in this business, you have to present your own original fashion identity right from the beginning of your career. But this is not enough. Each of the major fashion labels has a clearly defined group of customers and a strong emphasis on brand marketing. In spite of their desire to succeed in such a hard business environment, the popularity of Dsquared2 has increased over the past ten years such that it presently ranks among the world’s most prestigious labels, such as Armani, Gucci, Versace, and Dolce & Gabbana. The innovative collections of high-quality materials contribute to an ever-growing fan base.

The intelligent mix of provocative Canadian wit and refined Italian tailoring, together with an attention to detail, are the foundation of today’s Dsquared2 philosophy, which has given life to a unique concept of alternative luxury. From my point of view, the fashion identity of Dsquared2 is attractive to all ages, yet it features a touch of youth. Basically, it is not typical Italian elegance, but rather something like ‘cosmopolitan elegance’ with elements of street lifestyle, the beach, and enjoying the nightlife.

References

Dsquared2

As we know, each of these major brands has a plethora of its own fashion ambassadors and sympathizers. Dsquared2 is no exception. The brand’s unusual style is loved by many popular celebrities. The twins have mentioned in many interviews that working with the famous Madonna is definitely one of their most valuable references. Their unique designs have been worn by Rihanna, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Nicolas Cage, and also some Canadian idols including Celine Dion and Bryan Adams. In 2003, Dean and Dan were awarded by the prestigious fashion magazine GQ with the Men of the Year Breakout Design Award. In addition to all this, Dsquared2 designed the new official uniforms for the popular soccer teams FC Barcelona, Juventus Torino, and FC Internazionale Milan.

Every year, BMW Mini Cooper gets an overhaul from different fashion designers for the Life Ball, Europe’s largest AIDS charity event. Dean and Dan had their opportunity in 2011. The Canadian twins have put a great amount of effort into giving the Mini Cooper some muscle and making it look raw and aggressive. The Mini Cooper Red Mudder has a raised chassis, large front guard, rally-style headlamps, and all-terrain tires. It also features a great-looking interior, which unveils some of the modern aspects of the Dsquared2 philosophy.

Dean and Dan represent the unique result of hard work in the contemporary fashion industry. Their work and achievements count as a great inspiration for a new generation of talent in Canada.

Le Gourmand 
by Matt MacGillivray

Sometimes you need a coffee, and sometimes you need a solid lunch; Le Gourmand offers you both! Located just south of Queen, on Spadina, it is a cute little café that doubles as a small, high-end grocery store.

Interior

The décor is a stunning mix of mid 20th century luxury den and quaint French bistro. The hardwood floors and electric fireplace are complemented by old photos and paintings that adorn the soft-toned walls. There are dark wooden shelves stocked with jams, oils, vinegars, syrups, chocolates, and preserves that make great hostess or housewarming gifts. The comforting feel of the place always draws a crowd, but there is plenty of seating to go around.

Beverages

Coffee-wise, they have either the Black Gold or the French Roast, which are sure to please even the most critical coffee drinker. You can also get all your typical espresso-based drinks, from lattes to macchiatos. But Le Gourmand offers much more than your average coffee shop.

They have not just one but several hot chocolates to warm you up on a cold day. There is a white hot chocolate, a caramel chocolate, a couple of dark varieties, and even a Nutella version!

Food

Le Gourmand Selection

But drinks are just the beginning. Le Gourmand’s signature treat is the freshly baked cookie. They are constantly pulling fresh batches of chocolate chip, peanut butter, and oatmeal raisin out of the oven, so you are guaranteed to get one that is soft and warm. The chocolate chips will still be melted as you bite into it!

If you are on a health kick, that’s okay too! There is an abundance of freshly made soups, salads, quiches, and sandwiches to choose from — and delicious bagels and baguettes to go along with them.

They also offer breakfast options, such as steel-cut oatmeal and burritos. Or, if you come before 11:00 A.M. on a weekday or between 10:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. on the weekend, they will happily whip you up an omelette or some eggs just how you like them.

And because Le Gourmand doubles as a grocer, they have many products to fit your every cooking need, as well as some delightful beverages and snacks that you don’t see anywhere else.

Whether it’s a healthy lunch you are looking for or just a quick pick-me-up, this little café is sure to hit the spot. Le Gourmand is home-cooked decadence at its finest!

Contact

Email:
Address, Phone:
152 Spadina Ave., Toronto
416 866 2127
www: www.legourmand.com

Operating Hours

Mon–Fri: 7am – 8pm
Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun: 9am – 5pm

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Dark Horse Espresso Bar
Atmosphere

There has been a trend in some coffee shops towards mass production. The food is made in a factory and shipped out to the various locations. Because the sandwiches and baked goods have to last longer, they are pumped with additives to extend their shelf lives and are then left to sit in a refrigerator for days on end. But Dark Horse Espresso Bar is a different breed of coffee shop entirely. They favour all that is natural, and it shows in the taste and value of everything you can purchase from them.

There are several locations you can visit in Toronto. Two of them are along Queen Street, and the third is just North of Queen, on Spadina, in Chinatown.

Interior

Dark Horse Espresso Bar
Interior by Matt MacGillivray

There is no plastic or artificial feel when it comes to Dark Horse. For example, the Chinatown location features exposed brick, wooden pillars, and natural-looking tables and chairs. All this is complemented by elegant chandeliers that hang from the ceiling and bouquets of flowers that adorn the room. And instead of the dark dinginess and florescent lighting you find in many chain cafes, this particular location has an entire wall of windows that lets the natural light shine in. The cafe has two floors. The larger of the two features long tables that allow you to spread out and get work done or strike up a conversation with someone new who happens to be sitting beside you. The second floor is a smaller, more intimate space with individual tables that allow for catching up with an old friend or a quiet business meeting.

Food

They have some delicious food options to choose from, such as whole grain muffins or fresh-pressed panini. They also offer yoghurt parfaits, a soup of the day, and several inventive baked goods. In addition, they cater to different food needs, so they even have some vegan options available.

Beverages

When it comes to beverages, nothing else compares. Many of the people who work here are trained in latte art, so your beverage will likely be adorned with a delicate flower or inspirational heart. And they don’t load the drinks up with chemicals as they do in other coffee shops, but rather invite you to sweeten your coffee with a more natural option such as honey or brown sugar.

You can certainly order your drink and food to go if you are in a hurry, but if you have the time, I would definitely recommend sitting down with a warm beverage in a real mug and soaking in the relaxing atmosphere. Dark Horse Espresso Bar is truly a unique coffee experience!

Contact

Email:
Address, phone:
684 Queen Street West, Toronto, 647 352 3512
682 Queen Street East, Toronto, 647 436 3460
215 Spadina Ave Suite 102 Toronto, 416 979 1200
www: darkhorseespresso.com

Operating Hours

Queen Street West: Mon-Fri: 7am - 7pm, Sat-Sun: 8am - 7pm
Queen Street East: Mon-Sun: 7am - 7pm
Spadina Ave: Mon-Fri: 7am - 7pm, Sat-Sun: 8am - 7pm
 

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Basia Bulat
by John Benson

Basia Bulat (pronounced BAH-sha boo-LOT) was born in Etobicoke (now part of the City of Toronto), Ontario, in 1984. Beginning with piano at an early age, Bulat soon progressed to ukulele, guitar, saxophone, banjo, flute, and (perhaps most iconically) the autoharp.

Both she and her brother, Bobby, were involved in various bands in their teenage years, and this musical interest persisted when Bulat left Toronto for London, Ontario to attend the University of Western Ontario. During her time in London, Bulat became more seriously involved in music and had her own program on the campus radio station.

In 2006, Bulat stayed in Montreal for a few months, and it was there that she recorded a number of songs with the help of a studio owner named Howard Bilerman. Although Bulat had, at first, no intention of distributing this proto-album for public consumption, Bilerman eventually had it released by Rough Trade Records in 2007, first in Japan and Europe and then in North America. Along with many praise-filled reviews, this debut album (entitled Oh My Darling) was nominated for a Polaris Prize in 2008.

Since that time, Bulat has toured the United States, Australia, Europe, and Canada, and has released a second album, Heart of My Own, in 2010. When not touring, she lives in Toronto.

Sylvia Tyson

Sylvia Tyson
by Wikimedia Commons

Sylvia Tyson was born Sylvia Fricker on September 19th, 1940, in Chatham, Ontario. Playing guitar and autoharp as well as singing, Fricker’s first major musical forays were in coffee-houses in Toronto, and later for club audiences in 1959, with her future husband, Ian Tyson. By 1961, Ian and Sylvia (as they were officially known) were playing in clubs in the U.S. as well as attending the Orillia Mariposa Folk Festival.

The pair were married in 1964 and soon became two of the best known faces of the folk genre of the period, both as musicians and as the writers of such songs as Four Strong Winds (by Ian) and You Were On My Mind (by Sylvia). After thirteen albums and much applause, Ian and Sylvia divorced in 1975, and went their own separate ways musically, as well. Sylvia way involved solo work (which she had begun before the break-up), as well as branching her career into radio by hosting the CBC folk music program Touch the Earth from 1974 to 1980. She continued to perform with the band she and Ian had formed in 1968. Tyson was also involved in television as a host for CBC TV’s Heartland and Country in My Soul and even did some scriptwriting for Video Hits. With ten solo albums recorded since the duo Ian and Sylvia ended, Tyson was also wrote and performed in stage musicals such as The Piano Man’s Daughter. In 2000, she joined Caitlin Hanford, Gwen Swick, and Cindy Church as a member of the all-female music group Quartette.

Sylvia Tyson is now a member of the Order of Canada, and also serves as the president of the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. She still resides in Toronto, and recently completed her first novel, Joyner’s Dream, published by Harper Collins in early 2011.

TREB President Richard Silver considers low borrowing costs to be the major motivation for buyers.

GTA Market Records The Second Best Year So Far continued...

Gordon Lightfoot
by Peter Beens

One of the best known Canadian folk musicians in history is still alive and singing, and living in Toronto. Born in the Ontario city of Orillia, on November 17th, 1938, Gordon Lightfoot was singing in Kiwanis festivals, and was even being broadcast locally on the radio during his teenaged years. By the time he was twenty, Lightfoot had delved into piano and drums, had sung in a barbershop quartet, and had studied at the Los Angeles-Westlake College of Modern Music.

Back in Canada, he took up the guitar and became involved in folk music, recording four albums as a member of the group Two Tones in the early sixties. The music of the rising Bob Dylan greatly influenced Lightfoot’s lyrics, and his songs became popular through their renditions by the likes of Peter, Paul and Mary, and Ian and Sylvia Tyson (with whom he would tour England in 1966).

His debut album, entitled simply Lightfoot!, was released in 1964 and would eventually be followed by over forty others. Lightfoot continued performing in coffee houses, at folk festivals, and other venues, and easily survived the shrinking popularity of the folk genre to become truly famous throughout North America by the 1970s. He toured Canada, Europe, and Australia, performed nine concerts on nine consecutive nights at a sold-out Massey Hall in Toronto in 1978, and was averaging between 60 and 70 North American concerts per year through the 1990s.

His schedule has lightened considerably since suffering a major haemorrhage in 2002, but Gordon Lightfoot is still performing live on tours across North America. So far, he has won fifteen Juno Awards, and is both an Officer and a Companion of the Order of Canada. He lives in the North York area of Toronto.