Date of show: June 29, 2012
Bryce Avary, who performs under The Rocket Summer moniker, came on stage before the rest of his band, looping each instrument one by once before leading into “Do You Feel.” From the second he stepped on stage, the crowd was screaming non-stop and this was just the beginning of Avary winning over everyone at the Mod Club. With his mainstream pop appeal, it’s not surprising that the crowd was quite young, but as Avary has been around a while and is currently touring album #3, I did spot some “older” fans in the audience too.
The way Avary constantly spoke of his love of Toronto was quite endearing and had the crowd screaming even more. After playing “Hills and Valleys,” which he said reminded him of the beautiful hills and valleys in Canada, Avary said, “I’ve been on tour for 3 months and just waiting to get to Toronto. I’m not just saying that. It’s such a good place to hang.” He didn’t need to say any of this, but Avary ensured he had the audience in the palm of his hands by doing so.
This show was the first time Avary was showcasing The Rocket Summer’s latest album, Life Will Write The Words, in Toronto. He played a handful of new songs – “Run and Don’t Stop,” “Prove It,” “200,000, “Revival” – but he also played fan favourites, including “Brat Pack,” “Walls” and set closer “So, In This Hour…” I was completely blown away by the crowd singing along throughout the set.
Avary came into the crowd to perform “Soldiers” and a sea of phones when up with everyone in the crowd gathering as close as possible to take photos and record the song. To get back on stage, Avary asked the crowd to get close so he could surf his way back. Towards the end of the set, he crowd surfed a second time.
When Avary came back on stage alone for an encore, he asked the crowd what songs they wanted to hear. He did a medley of songs based on what the crowd asked for, including “Never Knew” and “Colors.” Before bringing the band back on stage, Avary turned the Mod Club into another dance party by looping all the instruments again. He continued to play a few more songs with the band, making his encore, impressively, surpass the half an hour mark.
If you’re unfamiliar with The Rocket Summer, Avary and co. know how to deliver high energy set and Avary seems to be an expert in knowing how to work a crowd. While it seems like The Rocket Summer cater best to long-time fans and sing-a-longs, Avary’s charismatic stage presence will put a smile on anyone’s face.
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