Wednesday, June 15, 2011
I kicked off my NXNE at the Bellevue for Audio Blood’s Go Folk Yourself showcase. I managed to catch Emma Hill and Revelstoke.
Emma Hill hails from Portland, Oregon and she was super stoked to partake in the festival. I was instantly captivated by Hill’s sweet voice, but she was also so charming and quite interactive with the audience. She even managed to squeeze in a song that she had only written the week before. All smiles, it was hard not to be warmed by Hill. Be sure to check her out when she’s back in town. Given all the love she received, she’ll certainly be back.
By comparison, Toronto’s Revelstoke offers a more unconventional folk sound. Andrew Seale operates under the Revelstoke moniker, playing experimental folk using different instruments to create his sound. Given he’s a one-man show, Seale did manage to swiftly change between instruments, but I did find it difficult to make out his vocals at times. However, Seale’s oft-quiet vocals seems coordinate with his rather poetic approach to songwriting.
Rachel hit up the Two Way Monologues showcase over at Rancho Relaxo.
Next up for myself was an appearance at the Nevado Records showcase.
I missed most of the LOOM’s set, but I did catch Brooke Manning’s cover of Suzanne Vega’s “Tom’s Diner.” Some of the lyrics were missed, but it was quite adorable and most of the crowd didn’t seem to mind, singing along wherever they could. It was the first set of the night over at The Rivoli and it was already quite busy, really setting the tone for the rest of the night.
Megan Bonnell was up next. The venue was buzzing even more, but perhaps Bonnell’s dulcet voice was lost in the buzz, as someone from the crowd yelled, “Have some consideration for those at the back,” urging people to shut up. Bonnell laughed, saying she only caught the tail end of it, but appreciated the sentiment. Speaking of buzz, the addition of a cellist to her set may have caused some buzzing while being played. Despite all that, Bonnell sounded lovely as usual.
The Meligrove Band played a one-off set, playing a Ramones set. Mike Small, who is normally found on bass, took the role of lead vocals. While hardcore Ramones fans might have not found the set true to the band, it was undeniable how much fun the crowd was having. Much of the crowd was singing along and, in typical Meligrove style, the energy from the stage was felt in the crowd. So much fun! Side note: by the time The Meligrove Band hit the stage, the venue was packed and there was a line to get in, likely because it was revealed earlier in the day that Yukon Blonde was playing the surprise 1am set.
The Paint Movement took the stage next, with Kevin Kralik (guitar), Jason Haberman (guitar), and Diana Planche (keys) alternating lead vocals. They’ve got a great dynamic energy, with soaring harmonies and mesmerizing saxophones. Their jazz-infused indie pop sound is quite smile-inducing. As the band is set to release their self-titled debut full-length this summer, their live show has me eager to hear more.
While I didn’t catch Library Voices, Rachel did and took some great photos.
I ended my night over at the M for Montreal showcase at The Horseshoe Tavern.
Parlovr was easily the highlight of my night. With hair flying around everywhere, the energy was undeniable. Louis Jackson (guitar/bass, keys) and Alex Cooper (keys, guitar) share the role of lead vocals, with Jeremy MacCuish behind the kit. For Parlovr, it’s not necessarily about being technically perfect, but giving the best performance. The crowd up front seemed to be feeding off of the energy from the stage, with many in audience dancing and singing along. The guys are also jokesters, with interesting banter, including some masturbation allusions. Adding to the fun, Jackson even gave away a couple beers that were given to the band on stage. Honestly, Parlovr is a band that promises a good time every time.
Almost equally fun, We Are Wolves was up next. The Montreal 3-piece is loud and boisterous. Even following Parlovr, a tough act to follow, for the late 1am set, the band had many fans right up front rocking out. Their sound was a little more electronic than their earlier counterparts, giving off a bit more of a UK feel to their sound. It was a great way to end off my first night of NXNE.
buying shots for bands 
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