Who to See, Where to Be: August

Being in a band is fun. In particular, performing live with a band is even more fun. The thrill associated with performing live in front of an audience is one of the most gratifying feelings imaginable, especially when people are new to the music and appear to enjoy it. Attempting to replicate the songs you worked so hard to record can be challenging, but that’s what makes a live performance so intriguing; the element of surprise. Even the most die-hard fans who have memorized a band’s touring set list can’t predict EXACTLY what’s going to happen at every show.  This is because a live performance is entirely reflective of the moment in which it is performed. It can’t be taken back, flaws and imperfections included. In contrast, a recording is definite and characterized by the period in which it was recorded, and is tweaked and altered until it is just right.

This is why I love performing live and watching how other bands and artists approach it. No two performances will be exactly the same, which to me is incredibly exciting.  While it may appear awfully close at times, each performance is unique in its own way. Now go see a show and stop reading this! I’ve even done you a favour and made a list of five shows/events you need to attend this month, and the reasons why you should be there.

1.       Open Roof Festival @ The Amsterdam Brewery: live performance by Parlovr (August 9^th)

Reasons you should be there: Parlovr are easily one of my favourite live bands, and the venue is the Amsterdam Brewery (21 Bathurst St). That means you can enjoy what the brewery has to offer, watch one of the most intense live performances you will ever see, and catch a movie directly after.  Did I mention that it is affordable? See the event listing above for more details. The video linked below is really all the incentive you should need anyway.

Reasons you should be there: I last saw My Morning Jacket perform at The Kool Haus in July of 2011, where they performed non-stop for nearly three hours. How many bands can even do that? If that’s not a good enough reason in itself, it was easily one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen. This time around Band of Horses is opening, which is huge! Yet again, this show is incredibly affordable, and at a pseudo beach venue.

Reasons you should be there: You can dance, and be introspective all in the same night. Sandro Perri writes some of the most interesting music I have heard in a long time, and has an incredible band to back him. Aline Morales has a gorgeous voice, and an extremely tight and percussive backing band as well. The talent among these two performers is ridiculous. If you have ever said to yourself “I wish more bands used flutes and/or melodica on stage” then you are in luck, as you will hear both at this show. Plus, I’ll be there (and I like to think that’s a pretty good reason).

Reasons you should be there: Young Rival will become your new favourite band. First of all the show is free, and everyone likes free things. So naturally you will show up to the show in a great mood. Secondly, it’s in the middle of Yonge/Dundas Square, which is beyond convenient if transportation proves to be an issue.  Thirdly, this band is amazing. For a three piece band, their sound is massive without sacrificing infectiousness. Plus, they have a new album coming out in the near future, which means you are guaranteed to hear some new material (which you can brag to your friends about). Oh, and it’s free!

Reasons you should be there: Did you read the line up? This is likely the most stacked bill of local talent I have ever seen. Having seen/played among all of these bands before, I can assure you that this show will be the highlight of your summer. I also promise you will leave this show extremely exhausted, as the energy level will remain incredibly high throughout all of these bands sets. What better way to bring an end to the last week of August? Yet again, I’ll be there (and that’s as good a reason as any)!

Banner Photo by Stephen Hargreaves for OTMzine Issue 12