The Emerging Music Festival (FME for short in French) takes place on a long weekend in the copper mining town of Rouyn-Noranda. Rouyn and Noranda were previously two distinctive towns but merged in 1986. It’s about a 7h north/west drive from Montreal.
We arrive Thursday afternoon. Our stay in town starts with a show at Cabaret de la dernière chance for a midnight concert. Partner, a band from Sackville (New Brunswick), is playing. We’re by the bar at the back of the venue next to festival-goers with little respect for the four playing on stage. Being loud throughout the whole performance. This doesn’t bother the musicians though. Many among the crowd are having a good time. Perhaps not my type of music (am reminded of 90’s skate punk and teen years full of angst), Partner gives a good show and Josée Caron’s guitar solos are impressive.
Friday. Walking around Noranda in the afternoon, we end up breathing some polluted air from the foundry. Our mouth suddenly tastes weird and I can’t control my coughing. JF, who grew up in Rouyn, tells me it used to be much worse. This sounds awful.
We drive back to downtown Rouyn, around lake Osisko. There’s a big gathering. It’s La Colonie de Vacances. I thought it was meant for kids. I was wrong and the performance is awesome. It consists of a quadrophonic show forming a square with the crowd in the middle. Four bands (Papier Tigre, Electric Electric, Pneu, Marvin – 11 musicians) playing ping pong with music.
I especially appreciate the drummer’s, Mat Vezio, guitar playing on one of the songs. It rocks. The only problem is he continues making odd sounds with his guitar even though the song had ended.
Later, in downtown Noranda, we decide to watch Half Moon Run perform instead of Avec pas d’casque*. It’s a questionable decision, I agree. Not that Half Moon Run isn’t good, only Avec pas d’casque just released the album Effets spéciaux, their first full length in four years. JF had a good point though; the chances of us catching Avec Pas d’casque in concert in Montreal are greater than those of catching Half Moon Run.
It’s a double bill with Yann Perreau playing at 8pm and Half Moon Run playing at 9:30pm. They play some good songs but also play quite a few ballads. I’m not a fan of their ballads. All in all, for fans, it’s a good performance and I unfortunately miss an Avec pas d’casque event.
Next. Co/ntry at 11pm. An outside event, as with both performances before. I truly appreciate this Montreal duo. Playing a kind of Synth Pop 80’s music. Saw them perform three times before. Not always good. Beaver Sheppard sometimes sings off key and it feels like it’s done on purpose (I might be wrong though). Anyhow, none of that at the FME, the show is splendid, Beaver Sheppard is very theatrical (in a good way) with his large Hawaiian shirt. Would have stayed until the end had I not had freezing toes.
At midnight, U.K. Subs are set to play in the downtown Noranda bar Diable Rond. I soon realize a dram of whisky (Glenfiddich) costs the same as a Boréale beer at the bar. My stomach gives me a hard time when drinking that beer and it’s the only beer sold during all festival events. I love the Diable Rond all of a sudden with my glass of whisky in hand. U.K. Subs turned out to be, in my FME experience, the event of the weekend.
They are an English punk band from the mid-seventies with singer Charlie Harper as the only original member. Bassist Alvin Gibbs, present that evening, joined the band in the 80’s.
Not only is the crowd into it, U.K. Subs is having a blast. Fans step on stage, sing with M. Harper, give him hugs (it’s ok, he tells us, it’s Rob) and of course the usual moshing and crowd surfing (the bar’s ceiling is quite low I might add). I loved it.
Charlie Harper holding the mic for a fan
U.K. Subs at Le Diable Rond
After the encore we head home with some difficulty. No taxis available. Finally cornered one by walking in the middle of the busy street and telling the driver it was only a five-minute drive. Turned out I was wrong.
Saturday is our last day at the FME. JF is scheduled to work on Monday; we have no choice but to leave Sunday morning.
GaBlé, a trio from Normandie (France) is at L’Abstracto for a 5pm to 7pm set. We head there early to get a good spot in the bar. The only table available as we arrive is next to the speaker. They start playing and it sounds good but unfortunately loud. It’s happy music with some experimentation.
GaBLé
All is well until one band member asks us to sing along by doing the sound of a First Nation, placing your hand repeatedly on your mouth and chanting. This act makes me feel real uneasy. Not many among the crowd follow suit on the musician’s proposal. I start to feel the urge to go to the washrooms. I leave and never come back to my seat. The place is crowded and I’m thinking it’s not worth it. JF joins me five minutes later.
At 8pm we’re back in Noranda at the Petit Théâtre du Vieux-Noranda for Royal Caniche, VioleTT Pi and Metz. I like Royal Caniche for the performance they give. They leave all pretentiousness behind. Next is VioleTT Pi. Good and a bit more accessible than Royal Caniche. But at this point, all I want is to listen to Metz. So my mind unfortunately wanders. Metz steps on stage and I’m really excited. They give a good show but the crowd doesn’t embark on the ride. I don’t listen to Metz at home but in concert they’re a whole lot of fun. I stop thinking and analyzing when I watch them play and maybe that’s what the crowd can’t do. They need to understand. I want to be carried away but sadly it doesn’t happen as the crowd starts thinning away.
Metz in Noranda
After Metz, we head to the basement of the same venue for Yonatan Gat (from Monotonix) and UUBBUURRUU. Yonatan Gat’s stage is at the same level as the floor in the middle of the room. We all know what to do; we circle the instruments and wait patiently for the musicians to arrive. The drummer amazes me. As he starts playing, he barely stops hitting those drums and with quite a fast pace.
The set ends and he smashes the drum kit with his stool. I’m naïve and really think he’s tired of playing the drums as the two other musicians stand there without knowing what to do. JF, who enjoyed the performance as much as I did, thinks it’s all for show. Their music is beautiful but the whole setting reminds me of a cult leader and his followers. The crowd is making a big thing out of a good show.
drummer Gal Lazer (Yonatan Gat)
Yonatan Gat
The last performance for us that evening is UUBBUURRUU. Unfortunately for this Montreal band, they are playing after Yonatan Gat. Not that they aren’t talented, only that it’s not the same. I’ve seen them perform before and I enjoy it. I’m drinking my second Boréale when my stomach feels weird (they don’t sell whisky in the basement). All I’m thinking about is how to digest it, therefore more or less paying attention to the band on stage.
The FME is a great festival. The setting is perfect. You feel welcomed by everybody in Rouyn-Noranda. I love it. I just wish there was more emerging music but I guess it’s a tough thing to get a festival going when the musicians aren’t known. Also, many of them, which I haven’t mentioned in this post, are from the Quebec province. Very talented, only we don’t need to go to Rouyn-Noranda to watch them perform. They often play in Montreal. Still, going to the FME was worth it.
a downtown Noranda alley
We leave the next morning with good memories and quite a few burps.
* KNLO, Brown and Dead Obies are also playing that evening. I’ve heard really good things about Dead Obies. Someday I will attend a performance of theirs. They live in Montreal. Maybe soon.
Show: Protomartyr + Sonic Avenues + Fake Palms Venue: La Vitrola, Montreal Date: Thursday, May 5th, 2016 Tough week. Seems it never ends. Live acts are a good way of escaping. Protomartyr at La Vitrola on Thursday evening did just that. Had originally planned to see DFA 1979 way back before Protomartyr was set to play. But the Torontonian band had been moved from The Corona to The Metropolis. Therefore I lose any desire to see them. V, who had already bought a ticket for DFA 1979, texted me that evening, “C’est crowdé en cibole ici”*. The same evening, No Negative is playing at L’Esco. JP’s there expecting to bump into me. I completely forget. Shouldn’t click attend to all those events on Facebook. Anyhow, I’m alone at La Vitrola but this is not a bad thing. The first set, Fake Palms from Toronto. Enjoyed the instrumental sections. Somehow this reminds me of an evening spent at l’Esco where I chat with Corridor band members. I mention how the excellent guitar playing changes everything in the band. I get the impression the lead singer with whom I'm conversing is bothered by the comment. I don’t always say the right thing.
As the first set ends, all I am thinking of is does Milk Lines still exist. The ML bass player is playing with Fake Palms tonight. I approach him later. He tells me Milk Lines is on uncertain ground. Sad. It's Sonic Avenues' turn to play. Before stepping on stage, lead singer Maxime Desharnais stretches his arms and legs as if to prepare for gruesome exercises. I laugh inside. Anyhow Sonic Avenues is good but not my type.
Protomartyr. Final set. On stage. Yay. They’ve been in Montreal twice before I believe. Seen all their performances. The first time, at the Il Motore (now the Ritz), is where I became aware of this Detroit band. First or second set on the bill, they asked the crowd for a place to sleep.
All becomes perfection as my head’s bobbing to the beat of the music. I finish it with 1/2 dram of whisky. I walk back home with a stop by JJ’s. He works long hours but always there to give me a hug. My workday wasn’t great so I needed it. Hugged and all, I head home. It's about 1:30am (I live a few blocks away from JJ’s), a stranger asks me would I smoke a joint with him. Nope. He then questions me about my calves: “Would the circumference be 16 inches, like those of a ballerina dancer?”. “Could I measure them with my hands?” he adds while showing me his fingers forming a circle. The moment is creepy. Told him I was going to bed and left. * it’s crowded here, unbearable
Show: Bloodshot Bill + The Hazytones
Venue: Beat & Betterave, in Frelighsburg
Date: Saturday, April 23rd, 2016
JJ couldn't help himself. He had to comment on the crowd's oddness at Beat & Betterave. "Le LSD a encore cours par ici"* he tells me. Among us, a lady in her 60's (or 70's) dancing with limbs flying around. The Hazytones were playing.
It's still early when we arrive. I have a fondness for this venue with all its windows and breathtaking view. The place is not yet packed. Nevertheless we stand by the washroom which results in people continuously asking me if am waiting in line to pee. This includes Bloodshot Bill who has failed twice to secure his spot.
As they step on stage, The Hazytoneswarn us "It's more heavy than Bloodshot Bill". Ok am warned. Am scared. Turns out it's not that heavy and I lose interest. I watch the odd crowd dance instead. Shouldn't judge though. Am strange too.
Bloodshot Bill is next and it's as good as it has ever been.
At some point a lady joins him on the platform. No idea what she's asking him to do but he replies with a "I'll try". "Maudite groupie" someone murmurs among the crowd.
Bloodshot Bill's performance is wild even as he is sitting on a chair. One song sang in French, couldn't understand much. The night ends and half the crowd by the stage is moshing (half of the crowd = 15 people. It's a small venue).
Bloodshot Bill
I purchase both of Bloodshot Bill's vinyl** and as we drive home I curse myself for not using the washroom one last time. The land and shack JJ owns has no running water. There's a limit to being hippie.
*LSD use is still frequent in the area ** Actually JJ is the one purchasing but he's too shy to approach BB so I do all the exchanging.
Show: Bleached + No Parents + The Muscadettes
Venue: Ritz PDB, Montreal
Date: Saturday, April 16th, 2016
Arrived at 9h30. No Parents had started. Two minutes later V joins me. We're at the back of the venue. Don't know what to think of the band playing. The lyrics are disturbing. Then again the music is quite catchy, good drumming, good everything. Screaming people on stage is great. You somehow think you are also yelling, it feels good.
Reasonably fun until some guy next to us starts screaming "shut up!" at the band. Continuously. Didn't hear any of this though 'cause both my ears were full of earwax. Just saw V in a heated discussion with the guy. Turns out she told him to quit it, he named her a cunt, she called him a dick, and so on. She seemed alright with the whole situation though, had a smile on her face and ended up chatting with his friend about Brit Pop.
The set is soon ending, the bass player removes his shirt to reveal the setlist on his chest (they didn't know what song they were playing next). V is still talking with the Brit Pop guy, I go get a beer.
As they leave the stage, the guy screams "fuck you" to the band. This is what V tells me (I still can't hear).
Last set, Bleached. They're great. Good vibes and flowers on stage.
No Parents band members join them for a few songs. Singer Jennifer Clavin explains how No Parents' van broke down in Boston leaving one member behind with the vehicle. Both bands end up sharing a van on the trip to Montreal. Good times, she tells us, despite the lack of space.
Bleached with a few No Parents
Micayla Grace on bass
There's something joyful about watching Bleached play on stage. One fan in the first row is uncommonly enjoying the night, singing along to every song on the setlist. Rather cute.
He brought a board.
The concert is coming to an end. Two girls from the crowd step on stage. Everybody is headbanging.
Bleached and crowd
We leave the Ritz. V has never been so alive. Am thinking she takes pleasure in arguing with people (or maybe it's just talking about Brit Pop). Whatever it is, am kinda happy she's my friend.
Show: Ought | Wreckage With Stick | Caro Diaro
Venue: La Sala Rossa
Date: Friday, April 8th, 2016
I know I haven't written anything lately. I've been to a few shows in the past months. Some good, but sometimes life changes you and therefore you decide to sleep instead of exhausting all that energy. These days collages have been my means of expression.
Love this blog though. I won't quit.
JJ and I bought tickets for this event quite in advance. I've never seen Ought in concert because, well, I haven't payed attention to them until a few months ago when I purchased More Than Any Other Day. Which I love.
The first set. Caro Diaro. Watched her perform before at the Ritz. The reason we arrived early really. Didn't want to miss this set. I know she's alone on stage with only voice and guitar. She could use some extra instruments. But what she gives is good. Manages to play different musical styles without losing herself. The crowd may say, not paying attention to her subtleties, it all sounds the same. It doesn't. There's anger and there's country music. Loved her country song. The evening might have begun with the crowd conversing instead of listening but as the set ended the floor was quiet.
Caro Diaro
Second act. Wreckage With Stick. Punk. Loved it at first but had to leave before the end. Couldn't take it anymore. Walked to the bar and bought us some beers. The singer, Matthew D. Reading, reminds me of a character in a Daniel Clowes graphic novel with lyrics such as "I tried, I tried and I failed" repeated over and over. Only this guy is very theatrical and puts on quite a show (until you're too depressed to keep on watching). At the far right of the stage you have someone eating pasta with a glass of wine. A guy in a alien mask had served him the chicken. This caused JJ to react. Asked me if I thought we had aliens with us here at the venue. JJ is weird sometimes. Talked to him about prostate cancer and he starts singing "avec mes grosses couilles" from Philippe Katherine's "Efféminé".
Wreckage With Stick
Main act. Ought. By this time my eyes are small. Have small eyes because either I drink too much or my body needs a bed. Had only two beers that evening. The singer Tim Darcy is captivating. Like with the other two performers that evening, the emotions vocally are palpable. There's so much going out of that thin frame.
Ought
We left the venue for the cold air (we're in April damn it) thinking of my bed. I'll be slowly resurfacing though. We all will. Summer is on its way.
Heading to the Ritz on Jean-Talon street, it's a relatively warm winter evening. Am meeting my usual concert partner, V, although am a bit late due to falling asleep in bed. V's been different these days. She's lost patience with foolishness at some times. The crowd gets on her nerves. Comprehensible though. We have a hard time moving from one point to other without having to excuse ourselves for pushing someone aside. No budging that evening.
photo Johann Schlager
The first set is Li’l Andy with band. They don't disappoint.
Have seen them perform twice already. First at the Petit Campus with someone wanting to steal the guitars (“it’s a joke” he kept assuring me). Second time at the 2015 FME where I fell on the sidewalk in front of band and attending crowd. This performance: everything is perfect. Li’l Andy and his band are on fire throughout the whole set. I particularly enjoyed the violinist’s, Joshua Zubot, solo on "See the Train Arrive".
The Sadies. I might’ve been the only one in the crowd that hadn’t seen them perform before.
Dallas Good
photo Véronique Côté
Travis Good
photo Johann Schlager
Great music without a doubt. A generous band, playing a long set. Dallas Good’s voice is a beauty. (Having said that I’ll add, with embarrassment, they are on automatic pilot. Completely normal though. Right? When you do so many shows in a year? The roaring crowd did motivate them however. It includes my work colleague by the bar jumping up and down like a kid in front of a candy store.) The thing is the music is so grand, any other bumps are unimportant. For fans that is.
A wonderful evening all in all.
On the way back home, I notice a blind man (sunglasses and stick) walking in the middle of the street. We’re on the corner of Clark and Jean-Talon. Cars are swerving by. “Do you know where you’re walking?” I scream. Of course I say the wrong thing. He’s insulted. He advances towards me and tells me he doesn’t know since he’s blind (duh, China). By being next to me he’s now, thank goodness, off the street. The bus driver dropped him off on the corner of Saint-Laurent and Jean-Talon, one street away from where he actually asked to descend. Clark street et Saint-Laurent blvd aren’t the same in width which explains why he was in the middle of the street. I walk with him to Saint-Laurent blvd. Once there he asks me to continue with him South on Saint-Laurent until Saint-Zotique. I tell him I can’t (I feel bad), because I don’t want to miss the last train. Luckily, I spot someone else heading home from The Sadies’ performance and plead with my eyes (so my pleads can't be heard) to help the blind guy out.
Living in Montreal is inexpensive. The nightlife and music scene are incomparable. Public transport is shitty. xx China
Was woken up at quarter to 6 by JJ's text message informing me of David Bowie's death with 8 exclamation points. JJ was somewhere in the Laurentians on his way to Maniwaki. "Shit" with 3 exclamation points was the only response I could summon. Spent the rest of the day, the first of my five day vacation, doing things I've put aside for a while. Calling my doctor for an appointment, framing the Metz poster, washing dishes, putting away the Christmas tree and listening to vinyl I haven't had the chance to listen to yet.
by Arnopeople Jan
As it got dark outside, became uneasy spending the evening at home just relaxing. The Quai des Brumes, a bar a few blocks away from home, had an event dedicated to David Bowie. V joined me with a "YES" and 4 exclamation points (she cried when informed of his passing earlier in the day).
Place was packed, one seat left by the bar. Not the usual Monday evening at the Quai. We understood the night would be special. We were all dancing, singing and watching movies in unison you know? (Am exaggerating a bit. Some were talking)
"Ground Control for Major Tom" began, V tells me a story about her boss (let's name her S). In the late 60's, S was living in Boston and had heard that something was cooking up north. A sort of festival. S and friends decide to drive there in two Westfalias without knowing where this festival is. Halfway there, one Westfalia drives back home discouraged. They still don't know where it's taking place. The other continues its trip. S is in the 1st Westfalia, her good friend in the 2nd. Fast-forward time, S is watching the Woodstock Festival documentary and suddenly sees her good friend flashing her breasts among the crowd. "Shit" she must of mustered.
By this time we had drunk a few beers. Had started talking nonsense. I was in the bathroom looking for my key which I thought I had lost. Not finding it, told the girls waiting in line that my mom was going to be unhappy being woken up. I don't live with my mom and am 37 years old. Head back to the table, find the key in my coat pocket. One thing V does when she drinks is she's not afraid to speak her mind. A couple was dancing on stage where Labyrinth was being screened. Yells at them to get off the stage. She's loud not because she had a few drinks but because she's so far away. Am I exaggerating when I say the entire bar heard her? Am proud of her somehow. I really did want to see the scene where David Bowie sings with the goblins. We all did. Also, when a bit tipsy, she quotes me on Facebook since I say many nonsensical things. I guess it's ok. (But V, you've got to double check your spelling).
(David Bowie's career wouldn't have lifted off so quickly if he had curly hair)
The evening was shared with people high-fiving me because of my t-shirt. Didn't have a David Bowie shirt but a high school one. Turns out many at the Quai were from the same high school. It was fun and all until someone told me he was born the year of my graduation. You know.
Had a blast that evening. David Bowie's death somehow brought us all together at the Quai des Brumes. Is there a better way to celebrate someone?
Show: Lyse and the Hot Kitchen
Venue: Mademoiselle, Montreal
Date: Saturday, December 19th, 2015
Heading to Mademoiselle on Parc Avenue, JJ is almost skipping he's so excited. Since spending time with him, I've learned there's much about music I don't know. Like Arthur Jaguars Cossette of, among else, Lyse & the Hot Kitchen. Mr Cossette launched his career playing instrumental rock with the Jaguars in the 60's. Yé-yé/Twist/Surf music.
JJ mentions having bought a plexiglas guitar pic from Cossette at a price I won't state here. It's a special pic that can break strings if not played the right way.
Arrive at the venue a bit early. The only ones there. The band members are eating supper. Plenty time for a few beers, an old fashioned and some sweet potato fries while the crowd arrives.
The show starts and we have on stage Lyse Déjeuner as lead vocalist/percussions, Arthur Cossette on guitar and Jérôme Hébêrt (never seen so many accents on a name) on bass.
Lyse & the Hot Kitchen
As soon as Cossette starts his solo, you hear the crowd roaring. Everybody is a fan although not many present. Some start dancing swing. You know there's a smile behind Cossette's huge moustache. I take a look at his guitar, it's a funny looking thing. Stickers of bees and pugs with a lot of glitter. Excited, JJ tells me he's never witnessed anybody that age play so well with the exception of Chuck Berry (yes, Mr Berry played in Montreal in the late 90's I believe, wasn't there to witness that).
Arthur Cossette
Lyse & the Hot Kitchen is great music. Some in French, some in English; a mixture of swing, rock&roll and yé-yé "dans le même biscuit, ti-gars" as mentioned on their Facebook page.
The set ends. We leave the venue with a smile on our face. Didn't expect to have that much fun. Next stop? Tumbao vs Mess Around at the Inspecteur Épingle. A disc jockey vinyl battle. Latin influence music with some soul.
Show: Elvis Perkins + Kinsey
Venue: Petit Campus, Montreal
Date: Tuesday, December 15th, 2015
It starts with a walk on one of the most romantic streets in Montreal. Laval street on the Plateau Mt-Royal. JJ and I are on our way to the Petit Campus for an Elvis Perkins performance. All is serene when suddenly he pulls out a sock from his pocket. "You left your sock at my place" he mentions. Only, the sock isn't mine. The remaining walk is spent discussing whose sock it could be. "Quite a Bermuda Triangle I have in my hand" JJ said.
I spot Dan Aykroyd as we enter the venue. Of course am star struck. I don't get star struck often you know? I mention this to JJ, he doesn't believe me. I mention this to AC, he doesn't know who it is. That's how it is in Quebec.
We arrive too late for Kinsey but just in time to order some beers before Elvis Perkins' entrance on stage. I love the Petit Campus. Always magical. Still remember clearly M. Ward's, Pokey Lafarge's and Justin Townes Earle's performances on that stage. No different this time. You feel the music, you don't listen. Nevertheless, that evening, you could hear someone else's music in the background. A bit disconcerting. But hey! Perkins is a pro.
Elvis Perkins at Petit Campus
One beautiful song after another with a variety of instruments to accompany guitar, voice, drums, bass and synths. Elvis Perkins' high notes are quite beautiful, especially on "My Kind" from his latest album I Aubade. The posture of his body in front of the mic shows his dedication to the music. He promises it won't take as long before releasing the next album and before a trip back to Montreal. He also pronounces a few French words but I couldn't understand.
Elvis Perkins an Kinsey
The set is long but it never gets tiring. Usually the crowd can feel when the musicians are exhausted. It loses interest. I only lose interest on the last song when someone stands in front of me. I feel my space getting tighter.
We leave shortly after. In the cab, AC summarizes quite perfectly Elvis Perkins "Yé comme parfait".
Show: King Khan & BBQ Show + Milk Lines
Venue: Bar le Ritz PDB, Montreal
Date: Monday, November 16th, 2015
Earlier in the day, a colleague pointed out the dangers of attending concerts since the unfortunate Friday attacks in Paris (he's scared of many things in life). Whatever. They can't keep us from living. You'll all agree with me when I tell you there are many ways to die right?
Being shot by someone deranged is just one of them. Heck, I might get hit by a car tomorrow. I'd rather live
my life as if everyday was my last.
Had some intestinal problems (severe gas, it happens to everybody). Arrived late at the Ritz, was too busy at home blow drying my stomach to relieve the pain. Milk Lines had already started.
Milk Lines
This Toronto or Montreal band (am all mixed up) is excellent as usual. Have been a fan for I guess what seems like a while now. Love the mixture of psychedelic and country in their sound. Exceptionally, Bloodshot Bill was on drums that evening. Emily Bitze had again some pitch problems, mostly when forcing her voice. Beautiful other times though, as on "Another Breed". Apart from that, everything was a 100% awesome. Their first LP was just released with In The Red Records. Have been waiting a stretch for that.
King Khan & BBQ Show steps on stage in full outfit as is usually the case. Couldn't help myself looking at King Khan's golden crotch. Have always been attracted by gold.
King Khan & BBQ Show
Not only are they super-duper live but they speak their mind. Sound wasn't great though, couldn't understand everything that was said. Bits and parts only. Like "Diva Cup all dressed" and "Tampons are killing the seals" (King Khan). Also, as a reaction to the violent mosh pit on the floor, "This is safe place!" "Suck my dick" "You could be making love to those girls and not punching them" (BBQ). Tried taking a picture of the turbulent floor when some stranger beside me gave me the finger. Love the pic!
King Khan & BBQ Show
The show ended early, no encore. Went straight home to bed with my Milk Lines vinyl. Slept like a baby. No more gas problems. Just saying.
Show: The Multiple Cat
Venue: Casa Del Popolo
Date: Saturday, November 7th, 2015
Saturday, March 8th, 2014. Sala Rossa. Lila Dit Ça was playing for the last time. The reason I was in attendance. Heard good things though from The Multiple Cat also set to play. Them being from Iowa, was very curious. I've been to Iowa a few times, having family there. Some Iowans are weird. Just saying. Turns out, that March evening, many things happened which I wasn't aware of. A couple among the crowd was being a pain in the ass, insulting the musicians while they were playing. It resulted in a fight outside between M, an attendee, and the girl. Actually the girl started beating him 'cause M insulted her boyfriend. I guess some Montrealers are weird also.
Was pleasantly surprised by The Multiple Cat. Even if the drums were played by a machine. Bought their record and approached Patrick Stolley. He mentioned trying a poutine while in town so I believe I suggested he go to L'Anecdote. He didn't understand a thing I said. Told him to forget it and walked away. There was no point in screaming right?
The Multiple Cat
Fast forward a year and we're at the Casa del Popolo. Same crowd, same friends. I heard M promise he wouldn't start a fight. This time The Multiple Cat is a three men band. We have some drums. Many think their live shows aren't as good as their recorded albums, not as many layers in sound. It is indeed different but not in a bad way. The melodies are so good and catchy you dance along to the music no matter what. The fact is, I like things simple and straightforward in life (I'm rambling here).
Got to hear their latest songs. In general more upbeat than the previous ones. But then again is that possible? The drummer was funny. No shoulder movement (doesn't take anything from his drumming capabilities though). Patrick Stolley, the lead singer, had some problems with the higher range notes. Even coughed at some point and said "son of a". I would've added "gun". No need in staying polite.
They have great song titles. "Magic That Work's" followed immediately by "Magic That Doesn't Work" is a good example. The melodies are also very good. It sounds so innocent.
Anyhow. You can take a listen on their bandcamp. Or here.
The next morning, on the way to a café in order to write this post, cross path with them. We're on Rachel street. A block away from L'Anecdote. You never know.
Show: Nots + Joanna Gruesome + more
Venue: Sala Rossa, Montreal
Date: Tuesday, October 27th, 2015
Enjoy last minute decisions. Had not planned on attending that evening. A friend I had meant to go with fell asleep at home (has a kid, completely reasonable) and am saving money to pay bills (bills are unreasonable).
Changed my mind.
At the Sala Rossa on Saint-Laurent boulevard. Cup of joe in me, alert for Joanna Gruesome and Nots. Or almost.
Joanna Gruesome at the Sala Rossa.
JG is awesome despite having technical issues throughout the set. Very good performers, six on stage. Better live than recorded. Then again, haven't found anything recorded recently with the new band member (or band members, am all mixed up)*. The guitar player on the left with the mix-matched socks and "Personal Best" t-shirt was the most loquacious when it came time to divert us from their technical problems. Mentioned a) the beauty of watching a band play live many times in a row and b) touring is much more fun when you're drinking. A beautiful singing voice. Soothing when everything else is loud (loud in a good way). A killer contrast. Kate Stonestreet in the middle (Alanna McArdle replacement) is the one that lets out screams with a heart, only we couldn't hear much. Sound on mic not loud enough. "Two of us aren't from Wales. We're sorry about that." she told us as the set started. The bass player to her left always had his back to us. Still good though, seems he was dancing to the beat. The whole bunch was having fun you know? It makes quite a difference. Was a blast to listen. All that noise (in a good way) and soothing voices.
Nots. Sound check was scary. There was something about lead singer Natalie Hoffmann's screams that made me not want to be the sound check guy. A good set. No long breaks between songs. Just long enough for Hoffmann to take a sip of beer. Alexandra Eastburn on the synths is an added bonus to the music only she looked under some type of influence. How the hell should I know though. It's been 20 years since I've taken any drugs. The self-destructive thing I do nowadays is attend concerts without ear plugs. Anyhow, if you want a good experience at a Nots concert, you stand in the middle and stare at Hoffmann. She'll stare right back you with a dare.
Natalie Hoffmann. Photo Joshua Miller.
* Trying to find their names on the web, they all have Gruesome as a last name. Confusing me all the more.
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 Protomartyrstepped 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.
Show: MRCY Fest – Alabama Shakes · Local Natives · July Talk · Safia Nolin
Venue: Espace Montmorency, Laval
Date: Saturday, September 26th, 2015
Will just share my favorite moments of the day. Will not mention that Misterwives were extremely overexcited of playing around noon. That Claude Bégin looked bored on stage playing with his buds from Alaclair Ensemble, that guy is weird. That I felt bad for DJ Lary Kidd filling in for Angel Haze. That there weren't enough food trucks at the event. Won't be mean.
First up. Safia Nolin. Absolutely love her. She's the opposite of over the top. Even with the melodies. Am I wrong when I say I hear half notes? Beautiful voice, beautiful lyrics, beautiful everything in its minimalism. I love that part in "Valse à l'envers"when she sings "ne me touches pas"*, the notes used fit perfectly the lyrics. You understand what she's saying, what's the meaning behind them.
I've met her a few times, she's humble. I believe her songs are a reflection of who she is. Joseph Marchand, her musical partner, accompanied her perfectly on stage. Some extra high notes added on his guitar to the sometimes low ones of Safia Nolin.
Safia Nolin & Joseph Marchand
The set ended with the crowd singing him happy birthday (the day before). Also ended with a girl among us on the floor imitating her in a mocking tone. It's all good if you don't like Safia Nolin's music. But if you are to make fun of her songs or simply her, you better be smarter than that.
Next. July Talk. I've heard them before on the radio and didn't think much of it to tell you the truth. But holly molly is it a whole other thing live. This band from Toronto uses perfectly well the duality between the two voices. One is hoarse (Peter Dreimanis) and the other one is sweet (Leah Fay). Recorded, I couldn't feel that duality. I feel it live though. They are great performers.
July Talk
A few songs were played from their upcoming album. Peter Dreimanis asked us crowd to be sincere and let them know if we didn't approve of them. Well, not being completely knowledgable of their music, relying only on this afternoon set, I much prefer the old songs. The new ones have more rock in them, less sweetness. Not that I don't like rock&roll. But in this case, I like opposing forces.
Leah Fay moved around alot. She also spat (or drooled) on a speaker, walked away for a second then back to wipe it with her dress. Stole hats from the crowd. Crawled on the stage. Whatnot.
There have been periods in my life when I have ceased listening to music. For reason's I will not explain here, the last years of the 2000's were non-musical years. This is why I knew only Local Natives by name. Don't even recognize the cover art of their first album (which was apparently a hit) released in 2009, Gorilla Manor. I hear them for the first time this Saturday. It's quite enjoyable to tell you the truth. They are good musicians. I kinda had an eye for the drummer Matt Frazier simply because he was drumming without really drumming. In other words, didn't look like an effort to him, he could've been cooking eggs. Also, love it that there's no lead singer. Keyboardist Kelcey Ayer has a singular voice even if pitchy at times.
Local Natives
Local Natives' Taylor Rice
They mentioned this concert being special. Playing in Montreal where they have recorded before and considering this set as being the last one before recording the next album.
I loved it. Own Gorilla Manor now.
Alabama Shakes. Last but definitely not least. Here's another band where songs are good recorded but great live. You just feel the music when Brittany Howard sings in front of you.
Brittany Howard from Alabama Shakes
The night before was at a monthly bar event called Mess Around. The best place to go dancing in Montreal (Divan Orange) in my not so humble (at times) opinion. Mess Around is Nick Osicka and Ben Shulman playing 45rpm's of early Soul/R&B. Don't know most of the songs they play but you guess where the songs lead. You can anticipate your next dance move solely around the beat. If someone asks what type of music is Alabama Shakes, you'll say some Soul some R&B right? But there's a difference. The beat changes. Am almost never aware when a song begins or ends. You have to be alert if you want to dance well.
They played "Heartbreaker", my favorite song of theirs. Thought I knew from beginning to end. Turns out I don't. Check it out.
I'd just like to add I have complete and utterly respect for the Alabama Shakes.
That was that for MRCY. Thank you for the candy in VIP lounge.
xoxo China
