THE STORY OF kMNR In early 2004, “kMNR…Music News Weekly” was conceived in Calgary when Chris Andrade, bored with his job and far more interested in finding out when his favourite band was set to release an album or tour, decided to start writing short music news pieces and share them with about a dozen of his friends. In very short order, he managed to put together a web site and mailing list. Initially, the newsletter focused on those new rock/alternative acts that interested him most; Tool, System of a Down, Bad Religion, Queens of the Stone Age, etc. However, it didn’t take long for emerging acts to be discovered and reported on, such as Toronto’s Death From Above 1979. By the end of the year, the newsletter would include not just news stories but also CD and Live reviews. More importantly, it started to give much deserved attention to some of Calgary’s many burgeoning local acts like the Rocky Fortune. The end of 2004 also brought the beginning of a yearly tradition at kMNR; the Year End Issue. Unlike many other music publications, kMNR’s Year End Issue not only featured it’s choice for Album and Concert of the Year, it also gave the readers a chance to voice their opinion on who topped their list. Rather than provide readers with the standard poll of pre-selected choices, the submission was wide open and even encouraged readers to write a short review. The tradition still stands today, often including free giveaways for those who participate. 2005 brought more great rock news and reviews from big name acts and indie artists alike but it also saw more growth for kMNR. It’s first ever interview was featured in March with Calgary punks the Turrettes. Chris also started getting some help with the writing from his friend Andy and cousin Nick. By the end of 2005, Chris’ writing abilities were recognized and he was brought onto staff at BeatRoute magazine but kMNR remained his primary focus. By the time kMNR.ca launched in 2006 (in time for the 100th issue), the newsletter had grown to over 100 subscribers and was generating monthly hits in the hundreds to low thousands (not bad for a one-man show with little promotion). Live photos became a common feature alongside reviews and more interviews were conducted with bands like Deftones. Chris was even invited on the weekly program “Tombstone After Dark” on UofC’s CJSW. Also, a relationship was forged with Cyclone Records, covering bands like Creature Republic and appearing on their podcast, “Eye of the Storm”. As 2007 came to a close, kMNR.ca itself ventured into the world of podcasting launching “Off the Dial” in October. Now, not only can you read about your favourite musicians, you can hear some of them and discover new artists on the increasingly regular podcast. It’s already featured an in-studio interview with another Cyclone act, Inner Surge. Just part of the always evolving kMNR.ca!