Along with local blog Grayowl Point, we had the opportunity to co-sponsor an unofficial CMW party put on by Vancouver’s beekeeper. Toronto’s Hue were nice enough to open up their pretty amazing Spadina Ave. apartment for the event. Dubbed “Harper’s Faves,” it included sets by four bands from across the country, plus free Steam Whistle!
Starting from the East, first up was The Town Heroes. Mike Ryan (vocals, guitar) and Bruce Gillis (drums) set the high-powered tone for the night with their danceable alt-rock and East Coast charm. I’m always impressed with two-pieces that manage to sound larger than the sum of their parts, as was the case for this Halifax duo.
Up next was Reversing Falls. Fronted by Tyler Crawford, their rough-around-the-edges garage rock is filled not only with flailing arms and guitars but also hilarious lyrics. Always a set highlight, “Is This Thing On?” never fails to make me chuckle. Now with Jamie Thompson of The Unicorns/Islands on drums, the thunderous three-piece from Montreal kept the energy high and music loud.
Vancouver three-piece beekeeper were up next, playing a frenetic set from their recently released EP Shout At People. Their set also included a cover of Alanis Morissette’s “You Learn.” With the main entrance door open, the music wafted down to street level, attracting some interesting people to come up and check out what was going on. Liking what they heard, one woman began doing some outlandish dance moves that included fluttering around a butterfly on a stick. Luckily beekeeper were energetic enough that they didn’t let her antics take all the attention away from them!
Closing out the party was the hosts of the night, Hue. Their melodic pop can be described as sweet and playful. A pretty softness to their voices, one of the band’s best attributes though is the brother-sister power of Danny Paton Jr and Jessica Paton on harmonies. Currently working on a new record, the band treated the audience to a few previously unheard songs. Putting everyone in a good mood, they even managed to get the now-packed apartment full of people to crouch down and jump up at their direction. It was a great end to such a fun party! | CD
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