It takes something to stand out in the singer-songwriter category, especially during something as hectic as CMW. Michael Bernard Fitzgerald seems to have some of whatever it is going on, though even after his Gladstone show on opening night it's hard to pin down. Fronting a five piece he primarily strummed his acoustic guitar while playing both upbeat numbers, as well as a couple he dubbed 'lovey dovey'. Old favourite Movie Life started on the right foot while the following love-dove had to compete with side conversations despite a call for quiet. To combat this he quickly reverted to a jumpier number featuring synchronized guitar strums with the drummer in the end. His two backing females features prominently as well, on vocals for Man Overboard and keys on others. As the set found its groove he slotted in another older tune in Maxine before the standout Brand New Spaces which easily improved on the already-stellar recorded version - not just for the 'Shorty Got Low' verses rapped at the end. Keeping the fun up we stomped and sang along to the oft-covered Boss' Dancin' in the Dark. In finale, now that he had the crowd, the band stepped aside and allowed him to pick and pour out the lyrics asking 'Can you hear me?'. MBF you're coming through just fine!
Scenic Route to Alaska drove (presumably the scenic route) from Edmonton to Toronto for their first Toronto show ever, taking part in CMW. The standard three-piece was instantly likable, playing the much-less-than-capacity room with spirit and charm. It must have been the slight twang of the electric six-string that conjured up Elliott Brood and Harlan Pepper references to mind, yet sounding quite different from both of these at the same time. The lead's confident vocals rang clear and were nicely accompanied by opener Alana Clark on one song as well. Some promise from these lads. They know how to have a good time too, dropping a Beatles cover in I've Just Seen a Face amid their toe-tapping tunes.
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