Audio Blood Media’s Two-Night Stand at The Rivoli: Night Two

Date of show: December 11, 2010

The Balconies headlined the show and, by the time they hit the stage, it was packed. Jacquie Neville was on lead vocals the whole time, rocking out hard on her guitar, with brother Stephen Neville (bass), as well as Liam Jaeger (drums), backing her up with harmonies. Jacquie carries so much charisma, sometimes overshadowing the skill that is brought with rich basslines and hard-hitting drums, but it works to get the crowd involved. The band works well together, dynamic and passionate. The energy was high and the band fed off the crowd. When introducing a song, Jacquie asked the crowd to roar like a tiger, and many complied with her request. They played favourites from their self-titled debut album, such as “Battle Royale” and “The Slo”, but they also played some newer tunes for the first time (see their interview here). They ended off their set with the ever-so-catchy “Serious Bedtime,” which was the clear crowd favourite.

Clothes Make the Man announced earlier that day that this was their last show. However, they played their set with so much energy and heart that it was hard to believe it was their last. Frontman Ryan McLennan was all smiles and there is still an obvious connection between McLennan and guitarist Scott Henry (they’re still best friends). Phil Wilson was drumming so hard that he incurred some technical difficulties with the kit and McLennan had to fill in some silence with banter. At one point Henry ran over to the other side of the stage to kick bassist Ross Machon in the butt. The guys were silly and this wasn’t a sad last show, although McLennan teased, “Ross, are you crying?” Instead, it seemed to be a celebration. For fans in the audience, many were singing along and McLennan gave out his thanks numerous times: “This is a really special show for us, so thanks for being here.” Towards the end of the set, Henry said, “So this is the end of the story,” to which McLennan replied, “It’s not the end of the set, though.” The guys ended of their set with “Crusin’,” which is on their Control EP. There was no mourning but instead a party. And hey, what more can you ask for from a potential end to a great, fun run for a band?

I had a chance to talk to the guys after, briefly and informally. For fans, don’t worry too much – the guys aren’t quitting music entirely. Look out for the possibilities of other projects. And hey, you never know… this could just be a break. Or maybe they’ve already changed their mind. Who knows? Time will only tell.

Teenage Kicks opened up the night. It was not packed quite yet, but the band had quite the draw, particularly right up front against the stage. Their classic rock sound, loud and hooky, really gets a crowd going. I have said it numerous times, but there is something about frontman Peter van Helvoort’s vocals that really stand out. Joining him on stage was his brother, Jeff van Helvoort (bass, vocals), as well as Patrick Marchent (guitar) and Cameron Brunt (drums), all bringing their own talents to bring the rock.

Although there was minimal banter, Peter did tell the crowd about a review he received from CHARTattack when he was in a different band, which basically said Peter was only in a band to get pity dates. Amusingly enough, the review was done by their friend, Shehzaad Jiwani (Greys, Arietta). Apparently Jiwani had given them a 2/5, to which he yelled out, “It wasn’t a 1!” After their set, Jiwani yelled, “3/5!”

They closed out their set with “The River” and as soon as it was introduced, a member of the crowd yelled out, “Hell yeah, about fucking time!” These guys may only have a 7” out, but their live shows indicate they’ve got fans eagerly anticipating more recorded material. The good news is that the boys announced they were going into the studio the next day and hope to have material out early in the New Year. I can certainly tell you this is something we’re all looking forward and we think it’s something you all should look forward to as well.

Closing out the night were surprise guests, Great Bloomers. Much of the crowd had left by this point, but for the fans who stayed, they were squished up against the stage enjoying the rollicking set by the boys. The set featured crowed favourites from Speak of Trouble, as well as new and old tunes and covers of Neil Young and Fleetwood Mac. It was a lively set, with frontman Lowell Sostomi sounding as good as ever. It was a great way to end the night and a great way to end off Audio Blood Media’s 2-night stand at The Rivoli.