Music News

Canadian Music Week: Saturday’s Suggestions and Curiosities

This is it: Canadian Music Week is winding down! The expansive festival can be found all over Toronto’s clubs and venues for the remainder of the weekend and there’s plenty to see, so don’t be afraid to get out there and explore. But if you don’t have the time or cash to hit up everything on the schedule, or simply want a couple of recommendations prior to venturing on your own, then look no further! Here’s what we think may be good, or at least looks neat, for Saturday the 22nd.

1. Melissa Etheridge 

Where? Danforth Music Hall

When? 8 PM, doors 7 PM

How Much? $70

Singer-songwriter, activist, medical marijuana supporter – there are many ways to describe roots rocker Melissa Etheridge, but boring is not one of them. Despite a breast cancer diagnosis in 2004, the Grammy-winner’s career shows no signs of slowing down. And with Melissa being a fan of Trudeau’s effort on the legalization front, you might even think her acclaimed shows could have that extra spark. Although, you did read the show’s price correctly, so maybe stick to this show if you’re a wristband-holder. But if you’re a fan of alternative folk and have the coin, Melissa Etheridge is absolutely not one to miss!

2. Earl Sweatshirt

Where? Phoenix Concert Theatre

When? 11 PM, doors 8 PM

How Much? $35

How many artists out there do you think had their big breaks interrupted by their parents? Earl Sweatshirt can definitely fit into that category. The lyrical hip hop phenom, known for his participation in Tyler the Creator’s Odd Future group, actually had to put his early career on hold when his mom sent him to boarding school in Samoa. But he’s been back in the States producing new music for a few years now, and the results have been incredibly popular with critics and fans alike. And we haven’t recommended much rap yet, so why not start now?

3. Weaves

Where? Lee’s Palace

When? 12 AM, doors 7:30 PM

How Much? $20

Toronto art-rockers Weaves are an act well-worth keeping an eye on – or seeing live, of course! They recently won an Indie award for Best Alternative Group, and for good reason. Weaves’ infectious tracks, like their single Coo Coo, have been getting heavy radio play across the country. This could be a great opportunity to catch them before they blow up, or simply explore another side of local alternative rock.

4. Japanese Breakfast

Where? Silver Dollar

When? 12 AM, doors 8 PM

How Much? $12

The second of three nights headlining NeXT @ CMW showcases, Japanese Breakfast has been pulling extra heavy duty this week. But judging by social media buzz from last night’s show, three nights might not actually be enough! The side project of Little Big League frontwoman Michelle Zauner, she steps away from that band’s indie punk leanings to explore more experimental pop melodies with Japanese Breakfast. Be sure to explore the hype – or check it out again tomorrow!

5. UTA Showcase

Where? Horseshoe Tavern

When? Doors maybe 7 PM? (Website incorrectly lists as 12 AM, but first act begins 8 PM)

How Much? $15

This showcase is pretty curious – it’s like a who’s-who of local bands who have not been getting as much attention as they deserve. There are quite a few names here we’ve heard simmering around the city for a while: new-wave classic rock group Towers, soul-funk act Julian Taylor Band, and indie-pop-rockers The Dead Projectionists are just some examples of the talent this showcase has on hand. And with a total of eight artists set to perform, there’s plenty more to discover before the popularity pot really boils over!

Mathew Kahansky

Once upon a time, Mat studied journalism. That's how he became Alan's one-time intern and current-time contributor, and the rest is ongoing history - get it? Mat also studied biology and music, so he has a strangely specific knowledge set that doesn't really apply anywhere other than useless fun facts. He currently works for a music tech start-up in Halifax, and is a big fan of the em dash.

Mathew Kahansky has 286 posts and counting. See all posts by Mathew Kahansky

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