Protomartyr | Growwing Pains | Fred Thomas

Show: Protomartyr + Growwing Pains + Fred Thomas
Venue: Bar le Ritz PDB, Montreal
Date: Monday, October 12th, 2015

Attended alone as I sometimes do but rarely felt so lonely. An odd Thanksgiving day. Spent it with friends and family, watched the Blue Jays hit home runs. But also waited for a guy I had a few dates with to bring me back my guitar. Whatever we had, it ended abruptly.

Arrived on time (or early one would say). Only a few present. The usual Monday evening at the Ritz. Everything was set up. The crowd was all that was needed. Time will give us that.

The first set, Fred Thomas. Originally from Michigan, just moved to Montreal. Was his first show in this new town. Only him and his guitar.

Fred Thomas

Could've been awful since he wasn't singing much. Half talking, half chanting. Also, no band to back him up. Turns out it wasn't awful at all. Turns out I loved it. Turns out the lyrics were great.



Kind of depressing. Lots of despair. Said, as he presented a song, "I'll keep it kind of short, not so sweet". Could've been the whole set. He gave us a visual on our society not often done in music. Quite refreshing. Am probably not allowed to post lyrics on this page. But he's got a Tumblr site with all the lyrics. You should take a look.

Next set was Growwing Pains. They reminded me of the Black Lips (but doesn't everything remind me of The Black Lips?). Really though, I can't say for sure because all I was doing was staring at the drummer Jake Kmiecik. Somewhat talented you know?

Thinking back, I could've been dancing to their music. Only, the day was starting to get to me.
The crowd was enjoying the live act. Someone continuously screamed "yeah!", wish he had more vocabulary.

Was dead asleep standing up as Protomartyr stepped on stage. Love those guys. Second time at a live show of theirs. Lead singer Joe Casey looks much older than he really is with his suit and posture. One hand in the pocket, the other on the mic.

Protomartyr

The lyrics are backed up with exclamations in his voice. Much more essential than any notes used. I wouldn't even care if he were pitchy. Great musicians with him. Gives it a heavy sound with a modern touch. Loved it.



Will try to drink some coffee next time they stop by though. Also will keep myself from ending any type of relationship on the same day.

Thanksgiving turkey