Date of show: February 19, 2010
Entire Cities closed out the night, providing a slightly different sound from the previous bands. Entire Cities have described their style of music on their Facebook page as barndance-rock-folk-country-party music, which I think is pretty fitting. There’s a lightness to their presence, as bassist Paul Sorensen jumps around stage barefoot. There are time-signature changes in their tunes that will turn a song that started out as one to groove to into one big jam, such as “Gimme A Ride.” There were members noticeably missing on this night, but Simon Borer’s vocals were enough to maintain a hold on the audience’s attention. It was a solid set, but I’d like to see Entire Cities with the whole crew out, as I can only imagine the on-stage party that would ensue.
There’s no doubt that The Fast Romantics packed The Rivoli. This Calgary/Toronto 5-piece is made up of Matthew Angus (vocals, guitar), Laurna Germscheid (keys, vocals), Jeffrey Lewis (bass), John de Jesus (guitar), and Alan Reain (drums). With a shining marquee behind them helping illuminate the stage, the band really had a defined presence.
There’s certainly an element of Brit rock to their style, with Laura’s work on keys being such an ever-present underpinning to their sound combined with catchy hooks and beats that encouraged dancing (case in point: the fella next to me). Angus has seemed to master the art of being a rock star, as there is an intensity in his delivery combined with his ability to command the stage. He even went into the audience and walked through the crowd, just to make sure he could get everyone into the set as much as he was.
As part of Fast Romantic February (final show is Saturday, February 26th), The Fast Romantics were giving away their Kidcutter EP for free to those who signed up for the show on their website. Their EP is already available on iTunes but will be released properly in April. By then The Fast Romantics will have already made appearances at CMW and in the United States, including a stop at SXSW. Pay attention because it seems like this band is anxious to take the world by storm, starting with North America.
The Ascot Royals opened up the night. By the time they hit the stage, this 5-piece from Brantford already had a great turnout. The band is comprised of Jimmy Chauveau (vocals), brother Ben Chauveau (keys, vocals), Joey Vinegar (guitar), Jesse Gilroy (bass, vocals), and Sam Stark (drums). With Jimmy on lead vocals, he oozes charisma as jumps around like a bundle of energy unleashing on the stage. This band is tons of fun to watch, as Joey and Jesse operate in the same vein as Jimmy by bouncing around stage. There’s no doubt that this band is fun to watch as the guys frequently exchange knowing grins, just enjoying being on stage.
To go along with their fun-loving approach on stage, The Ascot Royals craft songs that are catchy and get people tapping their toes, singing and clapping along, as well as dancing around. Playing songs like “Zap Zap” with that deep bass intro and a mesmerizing guitar solo paired with danceable beats and melodies, it’s no wonder that The Ascot Royals had the crowd loving their set. The guys even brought out a guest, local hip-hop artist Profit, who joined them for “So Tired.” Keep these guys on your radar as their show is certainly worth checking out.
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