The Sadies | Li'l Andy | Bar le Ritz PDB

Show: The Sadies + Li'l Andy

Venue: Ritz PDB, Montreal

Date: Saturday, January 30th, 2016

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

On January 11th 2016

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?

Lyse and the Hot Kitchen

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.

I love Montreal.

Elvis Perkins | Kinsey | Petit Campus

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".

China xx

King Khan & BBQ Show | Milk Lines

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.

The Multiple Cat

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.

xx China

Nots | Joanna Gruesome | Sala Rossa

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.