Canadian Music Week: Tuesday’s Suggestions and Curiosities
Here we go: Canadian Music Week is here! The expansive festival will be taking over Toronto’s clubs and venues for the next several days 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 Tuesday the 18th.
1. Modern Space
Where? Mod Club
When? 12 AM, doors 6:30 PM (maybe – the schedule on the website lists every act at the same time. Oops.)
How Much? $12.50
Modern Space’s single Pen To Paper got some great radio time on alternative rock stations in the city last year, so you may be quite familiar with some of their material already. Personally it was one of my 2016 summer songs, so they would be my go-to for Tuesday! Plus with names like Bleeker, The Dead Projectionists and The Kents filling out the rest of the bill, you really can’t go wrong.
2. Papa Roach
Where? Danforth Music Hall
When? 12 AM, doors 7 PM
How Much? $38.50+
Ah, the 2000s. Doesn’t it seem like so long ago? If you’re feeling like throwing back to simpler days, then Papa Roach might be the ticket for some nostalgia. Of course, this might not be the genre of nostalgia you were hoping for – and at almost forty bucks, not at the right price either – but I can’t help but have my curiosity piqued. Plus the opener is still TBA, so maybe there’s some local royalty ready to surprise?
3. The Extroverts
Where? Bovine Sex Club
When? 12 AM, doors 8 PM
How Much? $10
Billed as an early 90s post-punk/pop band from Regina, The Extroverts intrigue me. The idea of ‘authentic’ emotion is kind of wishy-washy, but if you want somewhere to produce truly dark post-punk then I’d imagine the darkness of winter in Saskatchewan would be the place to do it. And this band in particular got back together after almost 20 years of being separated, so they must be doing something right, right? My dark horse goes to this CMW showcase entry at the Bovine.
4. KX Country’s Hot Shots Showcase
Where? Phoenix Concert Theatre
When? Doors 7 PM
How Much? $20
I’m not particularly a country fan, but I do enjoy a good festival every once in a while, and this particular showcase is hosted by Boots and Hearts – you may have heard of them? WayHome’s older country brother draws huge crowds every year so I have faith in what they have to offer. And, with five acts on the relatively short bill, this show may very well capture the popular fest’s atmosphere in a bottle – perfect for if you can’t make it to the real thing this summer.
5. The Zoobombs
Where? Silver Dollar
When? 11 PM, doors 8 PM
How Much? $10
Hailing from Tokyo, The Zoobombs bring Japanese indie rock to Toronto with their set. I’m actually a big fan of not understanding lyrics – something about focusing on the musicality of words rather than what they’re actually saying really changes the experience. Plus, guitar-heavy indie is always a blast, and with the Silver Dollar’s are-they-closing-are-they-not dance this may be your last chance to catch this venue at full swing.
