Date of show: September 25, 2012
Written by: Chiara DiAngelo
From Prince Edward Island, Tim Chaisson came out to Toronto to celebrate the release of his new album The Other Side with an early show at The Dakota Tavern. The album does have a Toronto connection, as it was recorded here at the Woodshed Studio. He was backed by Tian Wigmore on guitar, his cousin Koady Chaisson on bass, Jeff Heisholt (The Trews) on keys, and Nat Lamoureux on drums. With his set starting at 8pm, the half-filled venue grew in capacity as his set progressed, with crowds of girls cramming their way to the front – many of them already able to sing along to these new songs.
With his album having just dropped that day, and the show having to be wrapped up by 9pm, his set focused solely on material from The Other Side – showcasing all but two tracks. They started with the lively “Speak Easier.” While many of the songs are stripped down on the record, there was such a full sound with the band behind him. Luckily, it didn’t compromise the poignant and heartfelt feeling of each song.
The night was filled with memorable moments in this intimate venue. On “Beat This Heart” – Wigmore, nicknamed “Terena,” took over the female vocals for Serena Ryder, who sings on the record. Wigmore also took up the mandolin for title track “The Other Side;” Chaisson joked that he was the only “shoeless, leather jacket-wearing mandolin player” – he just couldn’t get any love that night! While Chaisson had little time for banter, he did mention that the chivalrous “Long Road of Love” was written with Colin and John Angus McDonald of The Trews, and it actually uses part of an old, unused Trews song. After the uplifting “Bail You Out,” they ended on an emotional note with “Come Clean.”
There is something truly special about Chaisson. Listening to him sing, the rest of the world melts away and it’s just you and him and his voice. He’s sure to melt your heart with his East Coast charm – and his accent. Up next, Chaisson will be hitting the Canadian highway with fellow Bumstead-ers Poor Young Things. They’ll be at the Horseshoe in Toronto on Saturday November 17. Be sure to check him out – hopefully this time there will be more time to bring out the fiddle! Oh, and we still owe you shots, Tim!
Torontonian Nick Rose (Sweet Thing) opened the night, playing a solo acoustic set. With the show starting at 7pm, many of those in the audience were conversing over dinner as they waited for Chaisson’s set to begin. It was therefore often difficult for Rose to catch their attention. He however took it like the pro he is, and the applause seemed to grow with each song as more people began to take notice of the talent on stage.
Referencing summer in multiple songs, such as “Summertime Glow” and “Summer Dress,” there was a cozy warmth in his voice that made it feel downright balmy in the musty basement venue. In addition to a new song – “Another Coat of Paint” – a highlight of his set was the love song “Permanent Honeymoon.” I first saw this song live as the encore to a Sweet Thing show a few years ago, and it was the first real glimpse I got at the powerful talent that resides in Rose.
He had copies of his EP for sale as well – seven to be exact. In an attempt to make rent, he joked that they were $45 and perhaps everyone in the audience could share them “like a timeshare.” Do yourself a favour and check him out the next chance you get!
buying shots for bands 
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