"Alternative Rock" band Sloan celebrates their 20th birthday this year by touring and releasing their new album The Double Cross. The band from Halifax has released over 10 albums since their start in 1991, and show no sign of slowing down!
Unfortunately I didn't get to see their performance in Edmonton on May 31st, since I was just heading back from the Sasquatch Festival in Washington the same day. However thanks to the wonders of the internet and tour dates I was able to find out that they were going to be playing down south, in Calgary, on June 1st. So, in yet another venue, I was able to see Sloan again. This time the show was at the Republik on 17th Ave. Apparently it's a pretty popular nightlife street, and also one of the venues Sloan played during their first ever tour!
The Republik is pretty small, but I would say it's more intimate than anything, which is great for Sloan's sound and the personality of the songs and band members. As usual they put on a great show, with fan favourite songs from their many albums during the years. I was able to walk away with the set list and can tell you they rocked out in record time with 24 songs in about an hour and half! There were the "regular" sing-along staples, such as "Who Taught You to Live Like That?", "Rest of My Life", and "Losing California", as well as most of the songs from their newest album on the list.
Every member of the band sings and writes, which I feel has only helped their variety and longevity. When usual drummer, Andrew Scott, takes the lead vocals on such songs as "She's Slowing Down" and "Sinking Ships", "frontman" Chris Murphy takes a seat behind the drums (I don't like using the term frontman for this band since each member contributes equally to the all-around-sound). It's great to see a band that isn't afraid to experiment (and even better when they've been playing for so long, and still seem to love playing bars and small venues).
It's tough to say anything about Sloan's shows, as they always play from their most recent album, as well as older songs (since their repertoire can go on and on). But really they put on such a great live show that they've kept me coming back 4 times, and will have many more to come.
One thing I do want to mention was about the venue...and how the many amps in such a small venue made it feel like my ears were about to bleed. And not in the good way. You know, how they say...less is more sometimes? As much as I adore Sloan completely, they could've done with a little less loud. (It sounds hypocritical to say that about any live show, but it just seemed like their talent was being drowned out).
Not sure if you noticed that I didn't mention anything about the opening band, Dearly Beloved, from Toronto. That's because, I'm sorry to say, there was nothing worth mentioning except a band that seemed to thing yelling and adding swear words to every song made it great. Seriously diss pointed, and haven't felt that about any band or live music in a long time!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment