Young Drones by The Bicycles - Summerworks - Lower Ossington (Aug 16)

A rock opera with a big divide in the band as the black-haired and the bearded guitar players were drones while the female drummer led her marching synth and bass player soldiers. The music wasn't as catchy as some previous Bicycles work but more serious to match the mood of the play; although a ridiculous premise it was told with authenticity and urgency. Underneath it all the message was positive and clear, making it a worthwhile tale, and the projected displays although not completely innovative definitely furthered the storyline and added the extra dimension (even if it was only 2-D). As it was a concert of sorts I couldn't help but bop around in my seat on a couple tracks as almost all the members, including the drummer, took a turn at the mic. Perhaps not Tommy proportions but a worthwhile endeavor nonetheless!

Evening Hymns (Summerworks Theatre, Aug 17/12)

Rushing in from the airport I would not let the delays after delays prevent me from missing this show. Thankfully I was on the list and gained access to the sold-out performance only three songs into it - in time for early stand-out You and Jake. My introduction to Jonas' music had been through a live show over a year ago but since then I have taken to 2009's Spirit Guides while eagerly anticipating what is now Spectral Dusk. This showcase had a much fuller band throughout as they acted as a full seven-piece. Although Jonas' softer and looping work is beautiful on its own, it was quite nice to have these added layers of lushness to the live show. It was super effective on Asleep in the Pews that started out quiet and acoustic but grew in intensity as the drums and trumpet came in. Also amazing what an accordion and violin can add to a song, as they did on Dead Deer - one of a few older songs on the evening, including a fantastic version of Broken Rifle.

The scene was even set with blankets and branches on the stage to give it a country feel in the city and augmented by splendid projected effects made live through lighting and shadows and sparklers and all sorts of things. The sparklers were joined with confetti on a particularly joyous version of new track Cabin in the Burn followed by 'their most summery' Mtn. Song - a beautiful rendition to close the set.

In encore Jonas returned on his own with simply an electric guitar to fill the room one last time with his sweetness in Spectral Dusk. From what I've heard and what I witnessed on this evening these new hymns are worth the wait and my earlier prediction of big things for this band has taken a giant step forward.

Set List
- (Intro)
- (Arrows)
Family Tree
You and Jake
Moon River

Cedars

Asleep in the Pews

Dead Deer

Broken Rifle
Cabin in the Burn

Mountain Song

Encore

Spectral Dusk

Hooded Fang (Lower Ossington Theatre, Aug 5, 2011)

Arriving late, Hooded Fang were already lined up seven strong across the shallow Lower Ossington Theatre stage. The lead was donning his pink hat as they played a healthy dose of fresh Tosta Mista songs - Vacationation, Brahma among them. The backing female vocals were lovely, as per usual, and she held it down on xylophone too. On ESP they successfully recreated the fade out, though that is sort of weird to hear live. There was the odd older tune too, including Green River, Highway Steam and Love Song. They even played a brand new song (as in newer than last week's album) for approximately the fifth time ever according to the bass player, who really abuses any chance she gets to banter. A highlight of the night was the throwback sounding Den of Love, chock full of ooos and woahs. It was a fun little evening topped off with a short encore.