NYS Music 2023

Category: Canada

  • Keanu Reeves and Dogstar Rock Niagara Falls

    Wednesday, October 4th was an unseasonably warm fall evening in Niagara Falls, Ontario, at Fallsview Casino. Keanu Reeves with his band Dogstar staged an outstanding performance that left no one in doubt about the memories it created. There was only one opening act, the group Archer Oh who hailed from the state of California. 

    Archer Oh
    Archer Oh

    Dogstar consists of Keanu Reeves on bass. Robert Jailhouse on drums and Bret Dormouse on guitar and lead vocals.

    As the lights lowered and excitement rose in the crowds, the members of Dogstar made their way into the stage with a powerful force that attracted viewers at first instance. Not only a great actor, Reeves showed himself to be a talented musician. The chemistry in the band was unmistakably good as they shifted from song to another with ease exhibiting their musical talent. The line-up came just at the right time for die-hard fans, who were looking forward to hearing all Dogstar’s old numbers which prompted many to sing and dance along. 

    dogstar keanu reeves

    Tracks such as ‘Lust’ and ‘Sleep’ were exemplary of a fusion between alternative-rock and grunge elements in the band’s music. The evening was not dull even for a moment. Reeves bass tone was haunting enough to send shakes into the bones of every listener. He interacted with the audience and made it seem as if they were participating in a unique happening. 

    There was a strong link between the band and its followers, making it possible for a large number of people in the venue to have an intimate environment. When the night finally ended, Dogstar received thunderous applause and shouts of ‘one more’ as they departed the stage. The audience could hardly wait for the encore from the duo who made their way back to finish the night in grand style, giving the audience four more songs.

    Dogstar 2023 Tour Dates
    10/08 Atlantic City, NJ – Sound Waves at Hard Rock Hotel
    10/10 Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
    10/11 New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place
    11/30 Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour
    12/03 San Francisco, CA – The Great American Music Hall
    12/05 Sacramento, CA – Crest Theatre
    12/07 Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall
    12/08 Detroit, MI – The Majestic Theatre
    12/09 Toronto, ON – Lee’s Palace
    12/11 Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg
    12/12 Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club
    12/14 Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts
    12/15 Washington, D.C. – The Howard Theatre
    12/16 Norfolk, VA – The NorVa
    12/18 Charlotte, NC – The Underground
    12/19 Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
    12/20 Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
    12/21 Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl

  • Great Lake Swimmers To Perform in Albany This November

    Though a Canadian band, Great Lake Swimmers are set to have one show in Albany at The Linda come November, touring their newest album, Uncertain Country. This is the band’s first new album in five years, and is sure to impress all of their fans and newcomers.

    They also released an official music video which includes four videos for the album’s singles: “Uncertain Country,” “Swimming Like Flying,” “When The Storm Has Passed,” “Moonlight, Stay Above.”

    Great Lake Swimmers, fronted by lead singer/songwriter Tony Dekker, released their newest album  Uncertain Country (Harbour Songs/Fontana) this spring. The new album is the band’s first new music in almost five years, and richly compliments their two-decades-deep musical catalogue.

    The band has also announced Uncertain Country (Deluxe) that is set for release on September 29, and will feature new acoustic versions of six album tracks: “Uncertain Country,” “When The Storm Has Passed,” “Swimming Like Flying,” “Riverine,” “Respect For All Living Things,” and “Flight Paths.”

    Uncertain Country features 11 songs that track a prolonged period of collective anxiety. Though recorded in different locales—largely around the Niagara region, and with a variety of musicians—a theme of questioning runs throughout. Even before the world turned upside down, Dekker felt mired in uncertainty: from the climate crisis and the ever-changing political landscape to deep shifts within the music industry. The “uncertain country” Dekker chose as the album’s theme is not a specific place. Rather, it’s a territory we inhabit in the 21st century — a world that is confusing, unfamiliar and unsettling.

    What started out four years ago as a 10-day trip to the north shore of Lake Superior, inspired a collection of musical field recordings at various locations around the Niagara region (where Dekker now lives) and served as the album’s organic recording studio.

    “Long-time Great Lake Swimmers listeners will find much that they know, from a strong current of nature imagery to Dekker’s wistful & emotive vocal delivery, but also plenty of new territory to discover. Those who are new to the band will find a rich variety of emotional dynamics & musical approaches that still has a coherent core. ‘Uncertain Country’ stands as some of the strongest & most consistent work by one of Canada’s best bands…”

    Review from Great Dark Wonder

    GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS – UNCERTAIN COUNTRY TOUR

    September 13 @ Biltmore Theatre – Oshawa, ON 

    September 14 @ Isabel Bader Theatre – Kingston, ON 

    September 16 @ Le Ritz – Montreal, QC 

    September 27 @ Dominion Telegraph – Paris, ON

    September 28 @ Royal City Mission – Guelph, ON 

    September 29 @ Bridgeworks – Hamilton, ON 

    October 3 @ Hi-Fi – Indianapolis, IN

    October 4 @ The Southgate House Revival – Newport, KY 

    October 5 @ The Magic Bag – Ferndale, MI 

    October 7 @ Ignition Music Garage – Goshen, IN

    October 10 @ Park Theatre – Winnipeg, MB 

    October 11 @ Broadway Theatre – Saskatoon, SK 

    October 12 @ Festival Hall – Calgary, AB 

    October 13 @ Festival Place – Sherwood Park, AB 

    October 14 @ Rocky Mountain House, AB – Rival Trade Brewing Co 

    October 15 @ Bo’s Bar & Stage – Red Deer , AB 

    October 18 @ Dream Café – Penticton, BC 

    October 19 @ Biltmore Theatre – Vancouver, BC 

    October 20 @ Capital Ballroom – Victoria, BC 

    October 21 @ Waverley Hotel – Cumberland, BC 

    October 22 @ Bez Arts Hub – Langley, BC

    October 25 @ Troubadour – Los Angeles, CA

    October 26 @ Café Du Nord – San Francisco, CA

    October 27 @ Volcanic Theatre Pub – Bend, OR

    October 29 @ Tractor Tavern – Seattle, WA

    November 1 @ Globe Hall – Denver, CO

    November 2 @ The Slowdown – Omaha, NE

    November 3 @ xBk – Des Moines, IA

    November 4 @ Turf Club – St Paul, MN

    November 5 @ Shank Hall – Milwaukee, WI

    November 6 @ The Bur Oak – Madison, WI

    November 7 @ SPACE – Evanston, IL

    November 8 @ Rumba Café – Columbus, OH

    November 9 @ Beachland Ballroom – Cleveland, OH 

    November 10 @ Hard Rock Cafe Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, PA

    November 12 @ Sellersville Theatre – Sellersville, PA

    November 13 @ The Linda – Albany, NY

    November 15 @ TD Music Hall, Massey Hall – Toronto, ON 

    November 17 @ Aeolian Hall – London, ON

    For more information on Great Lake Swimmers, click here, or follow their Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, Spotify, or YouTube.

  • Smokey Robinson: a Night with the Motown Marvel in Niagara Falls

    Smokey Robinson graced the stage at Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls, Canada, and from the moment he walked out to the introductory overture, the audience knew they were in for an unforgettable night of classic Motown magic.

    “Being With You” set the tone for the evening, with Robinson’s velvety voice still as captivating as ever. He transported us back in time with “I Second That Emotion,” a nod to his days with The Miracles, and followed it up with “You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me,” a soulful rendition of The Miracles’ classic.

    As the night progressed, Robinson’s timeless hit “Quiet Storm” swept through the venue like a gentle breeze, and “Ooo Baby Baby” had the crowd swaying in their seats, relishing every note. The medley of “The Way You Do the Things You Do,” “Get Ready,” and “My Girl” paid tribute to The Temptations, showcasing Robinson’s versatility as he effortlessly crooned through these iconic songs.

    “The Tears of a Clown” brought a wave of nostalgia, and Robinson’s emotional delivery tugged at heartstrings throughout the venue. “I Love Your Face” was a tender and heartfelt moment, showing that even after all these years, Smokey’s ability to convey deep emotions remains unparalleled.

    Robinson’s rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon” was a testament to his vocal range and ability to infuse a timeless classic with his unique style. “If We Don’t Have Each Other” and “Beside You” showcased his more contemporary work, reminding us that his talent continues to evolve.

    “Just to See Her” had the crowd on their feet, swaying and clapping along, and “The Tracks of My Tears” was a pure, unadulterated masterpiece, transporting us back to the golden era of Motown.

    Closing out the night with “Cruisin’,” Robinson left the audience craving for more, his voice as smooth and captivating as ever. The energy in the room was electric, a testament to the enduring appeal of Smokey Robinson’s music.

    In Niagara Falls, Canada, OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino, Smokey Robinson delivered a concert for the ages, taking us on a journey through his illustrious career. His voice, still as mesmerizing as when he first graced the stage, left no doubt that he is a true legend of Motown. The setlist was a perfect blend of classics and newer hits, ensuring that both longtime fans and newcomers alike left the venue with their hearts full and their spirits lifted. Smokey Robinson’s performance was a musical experience that will be cherished for years to come.

  • Rod Stewart Delivers Timeless Performance at Fallsview Casino

    Rod Stewart brought the house down at Fallsview Casino in Niagara Falls, Canada on Saturday September 2nd. A concert that was a whirlwind of musical hits, wardrobe changes, and a crowd with an average age of about 65 years old.

    Stewart, the legendary British rock star, dazzled the audience with his timeless charisma and signature raspy vocals. He kicked off the night with a bang, opening with the Robert Palmer classic “Addicted to Love.” The audience, a sea of silver hair and nostalgic smiles, was immediately transported back to the heyday of rock and roll.

    One of the standout features of the evening was Stewart’s numerous wardrobe changes. From sharp suits to flamboyant outfits, he brought a sense of style and showmanship that has defined his career. Each costume change was met with applause and anticipation, adding an extra layer of excitement to the show.

    The setlist was a journey through musical history, with Rod Stewart effortlessly covering a wide range of classic songs. From “You Wear It Well” to “Infatuation” and “Young Turks,” he showcased his versatility as an artist and a performer. The crowd couldn’t get enough, singing along to every word.

    Stewart paid homage to some of the greats with his selection of cover songs, including Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” and Cat Stevens‘ “The First Cut Is the Deepest.” These renditions were met with a nostalgic appreciation from the audience, who knew every lyric by heart.

    As the night continued, hits like “Maggie May” and “Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)” had the entire casino venue swaying and singing along. Stewart’s powerful stage presence and undeniable charm kept the energy levels soaring throughout the concert.

    The encore was a fitting conclusion to the night, featuring the Faces classic “Stay With Me.” The crowd roared with approval, and it was clear that Rod Stewart’s music still held a special place in their hearts.

    In a night filled with unforgettable moments, Rod Stewart’s performance at Fallsview Casino was a testament to his enduring talent and the timelessness of his music. It was a concert that transcended generations, reminding us all why he is considered one of the greatest rock icons of all time.

  • Joss Stone Celebrates 20 Years of Soul at OLG Stage

    Celebrating 20 years of her debut album, Soul Sessions, Joss Stone has embarked on a city North American tour, including a stop at the OLG Stage in Niagara Falls, Ontario on Aug. 26. Tagging along for the ride was singer/songwriter Stephen Wilson Jr.

    Released in the Fall of 2013, Soul Sessions was the first studio album for Stone who was discovered at the age of 13 during a voice competition. With comparisons early on to Janis Joplin with Motown vibes, Stone had her work cut out for her and made the most of every opportunity. Soulful, bluesy, sultry, sensual, and spiritual are all perfect adjectives for any part of her music.

    Prior to her soulful show, music fans were treated to some rustic sounds from Stephen Wilson Jr. Primarily a writer, Wilson has discovered that he can draw fans with his voice as well. Playing an approximately 45-minute set, he serenaded the crowd with some witty humor, 70s Bruce Springsteen-like vocals, and a guitar.

    After going to school for microbiology, Wilson made the hard life choice to pursue music rather than the science field, with some inspiration from songs like “Don’t Take the Girl.” He calls himself a recovering microbiologist, and personally, I feel he made the right choice, science is overrated, anyway.

    Raised by his father, they stayed close until his passing a few years ago. One of his last words to the younger Wilson was “write a good song for me.” For his father, the song “Father’s Son” was written. It is a very profound melancholy-filled song, sure to resonate with many who give it a listen.

    I wear his blue jean jacket and his name like a badge of honor
    I used to hate being called Junior
    Now I don’t mind any longer

    Stepen Wilson Jr. – “Father’s Son”

    Many songs from his forthcoming album carry loosely based storylines from his life, including “Holler From the Holler” and “For What It’s Worth.” Keep an ear open for the new music in the next month.

    With Stephen Wilson cleared from the stage, the anticipation of a night of soulful blues music was growing. With nine albums to her credit and a number of notable renditions she has performed over the years, the set list for Joss is hard to imagine. For this night, fans were treated to a medley of two songs, followed by two songs from her debut, “Super Duper Love” and “Fell in Love With a Boy.”

    As she continued on, Joss shared a little bit of information from each album. Mind, Body, and Soul was all about her and her life choices. Introducing Joss Stone, which she sometimes refers to as her debut, is where she got to work with Raphael Saadiq and Laurn Hill, a dream come true for her. Color Me Free is titled based on where she was in her life, wanting her freedom space.

    A storyteller as much as a vocalist, Stone seemed to float across the stage barefoot as always, as she performed and replayed her memories for her fans. Memories of previous tours, memories from trips to Botswana, and memories of working with notable talents as she blossomed into the star she is today. One story of note is from Botswana, where she was asked to write a song to bring the rain. While on a trip there, she was told that there had not been rain for nearly nine months, a true drought for sure. As requested, she wrote the song, aptly titled “Rain Song” and when she went back to Botswana to play it the rain poured down. A very spiritual person, Joss was left amazed at this marvel.

    While she is known for her bluesy, jazzy styles, Joss is very capable of any genre, as she displayed during a three-song reggae set, including parts of a song that her father used to sing to her. While she is no Marley or Jimmy Cliff, her ability to put her own style on something like Island music is something that sets her apart. With an innocent giggle at the end of the set, as the stage goes dark, it’s clear that Joss was having quite a good time.

    With the show winding down, fans were hit with a confetti canon as she sang about the power of music and spoke about how music brings people together, creates love, and inversely can divide people. Soulful, spiritual, and cheerful, Stone graciously thanked everyone for coming out tonight.

    When artists hit the stage to perform, they often have a set routine and follow it pretty closely. I am sure that Joss Stone is no different, but the way she delivers it all is second to none. Joking with the crowd, giggling all night, dancing around the stage in any of the 3 outfits she donned, and presenting fresh sunflowers to random fans all speaks volumes to the level of fun she has. A real class act that Fallsview Casino Resort should be bragging about.

    Joss Stones Setlist: Intro Medley, Super Duper Kind of Love, Fell in Love With a Boy, Jet Lag, Proper Nice, Tell Me ‘Bout It, 4&20, The Love We Had, Even the Sky, Reggae mix, When You’re In Love, Rain Song (for Botswana), Music, Put Your Hand On Me/Son of A Preacher Man, Right to Be Wrong, Spell on You, Some Kind of Wonderful

  • Incubus Rocks the Fallsview Casino’s OLG Stage in Niagara Falls

    Niagara Falls was treated to a night of pulsating rhythms, electric energy, and a mix of rock anthems as Incubus took the stage on Sunday, Aug. 6 at Fallsview Casino’s OLG Stage. Despite a few hiccups, the band managed to deliver a memorable performance that left the crowd both exhilarated and yearning for more.

    Disappointment tinged the excitement as news spread that Paris Jackson (Michael Jackson’s daughter) was unable to make the show, leaving fans to wonder what might have been. Nevertheless, the disappointment was fleeting, quickly replaced by the mounting excitement for the headlining act.

    The evening kicked off with an explosive set by Badflower, the opening act that set the stage on fire. Lead singer Josh Katz’s charismatic presence was undeniable as he ventured into the crowd, serenading fans with an infectious energy that set the tone for the night. The band’s sound reverberated through the venue, leaving a lasting impression on concertgoers who were undoubtedly pleased by the musical appetizer they had just devoured.

    As Incubus graced the stage, cheers echoed throughout the venue. However, as the band delved into their setlist, a discerning ear couldn’t help but notice moments where lead vocalist Brandon Boyd seemed to be struggling with pitch. While his distinctive voice remained captivating, occasional off-key notes hinted at monitor problems that might have marred his performance. Technical glitches can affect even the most seasoned of performers, and Boyd’s professionalism in powering through demonstrated his dedication to the fans.

    Despite these minor setbacks, Incubus unleashed a cascade of hits that had the crowd swaying, singing, and chanting along. “Anna Molly” and “Nice to Know You” ignited fervor among the audience, while the introspective “Make Yourself” provided a moment of introspection amid the raucous excitement. The band’s synergy was undeniable, with Mike Einziger’s guitar riffs intertwining seamlessly with Jose Pasillas’ rhythmic drumming, crafting a sonic tapestry that resonated throughout the venue.

    The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Incubus’s discography, touching on both classic favorites and newer tracks. A notable highlight was their electrifying rendition of The Beatles “Come Together,” which injected a dose of nostalgia into the night. As the show reached its zenith with “Pardon Me” and “Stellar,” the crowd’s energy surged, a testament to the enduring power of these iconic hits.

    The performance concluded with a poignant tribute, as Incubus seamlessly segued from “Wish You Were Here” into a snippet of Pink Floyd’s equally iconic track by the same name. The crowd’s applause and cheers filled the air, a fitting send-off for a night of musical magic.

    Despite the technical hiccups and occasional off-pitch moments, Incubus managed to cast a spell on their Niagara Falls audience, reminding everyone present of the transcendental power of live music. As the lights dimmed and the echoes of the final notes faded, concertgoers left the Fallsview Casino’s OLG Stage with hearts full and spirits lifted, a night of rock and roll reverie etched into their memories forever.

    Incubus

  • Resonating Energies: Shinedown’s Electrifying Concert at Fallsview Casino

    On Sunday July 23rd, Fallsview Casino’s OLG Stage in Niagara Falls marked an unforgettable night for the attendees. Shinedown delivered a powerful and electrifying performance to conclude their recent tour supporting their latest album, Planet Zero. Preceding the headlining act, the crowd was treated to an impressive opening set by Sleep Theory, hailing from Memphis TN, who energized the audience with their raw and captivating sound.

    As the lights dimmed and the anticipation reached its peak, Shinedown took the stage, igniting the atmosphere with their opening track, “Diamond Eyes (Boom-Lay Boom-Lay Boom).” Lead vocalist Brent Smith’s commanding presence held the audience in thrall from the very beginning, setting the tone for an evening filled with rock anthems and heartfelt ballads. Many fans were excited to see the use of pyro and flash bangs inside. It wasn’t as big as an outdoor show, but was still spectacular.

    The band’s well-curated setlist of 19 songs showcased their musical versatility, incorporating both fan-favorite classics and fresh tracks from their latest album. Hits like “Second Chance” and “Sound of Madness” had the crowd singing along passionately, while newer releases like “Devil” and the album’s title track, “Planet Zero,” demonstrated the band’s continued evolution and growth.

    A standout moment of the night was the acoustic rendition of Jimmy Eat World’s hit, “The Middle.” The stripped-down performance showcased Smith’s soulful vocals and resonated deeply with the audience, creating an intimate and emotional connection.

    Throughout the concert, Shinedown engaged with their fans, with Smith delivering heartfelt speeches that emphasized themes of resilience, unity, and hope. This personal touch forged a strong bond between the band and their dedicated supporters, making the event feel like a shared and special experience.

    As the night approached its climax, the band closed with an explosive performance of “Cut the Cord,” leaving the crowd in a state of euphoria. The overwhelming energy and passion on display demonstrated why Shinedown has remained a force to be reckoned with in the modern rock scene.

    In the aftermath of the concert, attendees were left with lasting memories of an exceptional night of music and showmanship. Shinedown’s ability to connect with their audience, coupled with the stellar opening act by Sleep Theory, solidified the event as a remarkable and unforgettable experience. As the lights came up and the cheers subsided, it was evident that Shinedown’s music and live performances will continue to resonate with fans for years to come. They are not stopping anytime soon.

    Sleep Theory

    Shinedown

    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller
    photos by Mike Miller

  • Volbeat and Halestorm Rock Toronto at Echo Beach

    Toronto’s Echo Beach was set ablaze on Wednesday July 12th as the Danish rockers Volbeat, accompanied by the powerhouse American rock band Halestorm, unleashed a sonic storm upon the fervent crowd. The air was electric with anticipation as fans eagerly awaited the musical extravaganza that awaited them. And boy, did these bands deliver!

    Halestorm last play the area in Hamburg last year. Kicking off the night with an explosive energy, Halestorm took the stage by storm, leaving the audience breathless with their blistering performance. Frontwoman Lzzy Hale commanded the stage like a true rock goddess, her powerful vocals piercing through the night air. With her signature charisma and raw intensity, she effortlessly captured the hearts of every spectator in the venue.

    Halestorm’s guitar-driven anthems reverberated through the amphitheater, igniting an uncontainable fervor among the crowd. Songs like “Love Bites (So Do I)” and “The Steeple” resonated with fans, who eagerly sang along to every word. The band’s seamless synergy and tight musicianship were evident, creating an undeniable chemistry that fueled the entire performance.

    After a brief intermission, the stage transformed into a grandiose spectacle, signaling the arrival of Volbeat. The “Servant Of The Road” tour had kicked off in Toronto, and the band wasted no time in proving why they are considered one of the most dynamic acts in rock music today.

    Frontman Michael Poulsen’s commanding stage presence and distinct baritone vocals took the audience on a wild ride. The band effortlessly transitioned from hard-hitting, foot-stomping rockers like “The Devil’s Bleeding Crown” to more melodic and introspective tunes like “Becoming.” Each song was executed flawlessly, fueling an intense euphoria that pulsed through the veins of every fan.

    Volbeat’s performance was accompanied by a stunning visual display, with mesmerizing light shows and striking backdrops that added an extra layer of grandeur to the concert. The crowd’s collective energy reached its peak during the band’s iconic hit, “Still Counting,” with fans chanting the infectious chorus with unbridled enthusiasm.

    The chemistry between the band members was palpable, as they effortlessly navigated their extensive catalog of rock anthems. From the blistering guitar solos to the thunderous drumming, every musician on that stage showcased their immense talent, leaving the audience in awe.

    The Volbeat and Halestorm show at Echo Beach was an unforgettable experience, leaving no doubt that rock ‘n’ roll is very much alive and thriving. These two bands proved that they are the rightful torchbearers of the genre, infusing it with their unique sound and captivating performances. The Toronto crowd was treated to a night of pure rock ‘n’ roll magic, and everyone left Echo Beach with their hearts pounding and their souls rejuvenated.

    Halestorm

    Volbeat

  • Dream Theater’s Dreamsonic tour plows through Hamilton ONT

    Hamilton’s FirstOntario Center became a haven for progressive metal enthusiasts. The mighty Dream Theater stormed the stage on their highly anticipated “Dreamsonic” tour on Wednesday, July 5. Sharing the spotlight were the incomparable Devin Townsend and the virtuosic Animals as Leaders. The evening promised a sonic journey unlike any other, and the bands delivered an unforgettable experience that left the crowd breathless.

    Animals as Leaders

    The main support of the show was the one and only Devin Townsend, a visionary artist known for his eclectic and experimental soundscapes. With a mesmerizing stage presence, Townsend took the audience on a musical odyssey with his setlist. From the mind-bending complexity of “Truth” to the atmospheric beauty of “Kingdom,” Townsend showcased his ability to seamlessly transition between contrasting moods and styles. The crowd was captivated by his powerful vocal range and the intricate layers of instrumentation that formed the backbone of his performance.

    Next up, Dream Theater took the stage with an explosive rendition of “Caught in a Web,” instantly igniting the crowd’s energy after they started the setlist with some newer songs. The band’s technical prowess was on full display as they flawlessly executed complex time signatures and intricate melodies. Songs like “About to Crash” and “Solitary Shell” showcased their ability to seamlessly blend heavy riffs with melodic passages, creating a dynamic and captivating sonic experience. Their guitarist John Petrucci is one of the few performers who have mastered this.

    The concert reached its climax with the epic “The Count of Tuscany” a monumental piece that showcased Dream Theater’s musical virtuosity. The band’s chemistry was palpable as they flawlessly navigated through the song’s ever-shifting dynamics and intricate arrangements. The audience was spellbound by the precise synchrony between each band member, as they wove together a sonic tapestry of progressive metal mastery.

    For the encore, Dream Theater invited the other band members from the prior bands to join them on stage for a stunning rendition of “Act II: Scene Eight: The Spirit Carries On.” The collective energy and talent of all the musicians on stage created a transcendent moment, leaving the audience in awe.

    Dream Theater’s setlist was a carefully curated journey through their illustrious discography. Classics like “Pull Me Under” ignited nostalgia in long-time fans, while newer tracks like “The Alien” showcased the band’s continued evolution and growth. Each song was performed with impeccable precision, showcasing the band’s unrivaled musicianship and dedication to their craft.

    The Dreamsonic tour in Hamilton was a night that will forever be etched in the memory of progressive metal fans. Dream Theater, accompanied by support acts Devin Townsend and Animals as Leaders, delivered a mesmerizing display of technical prowess, musical depth, and sheer sonic brilliance. With a setlist that spanned their extensive career, Dream Theater left no doubt that they are masters of their craft, captivating the audience and leaving them craving for more.

    Animals as Leaders

    Devin Townsend

    Dream Theater

  • GoGo Penguin Mesmerizes Toronto’s Opera House

    On May 9th, the Opera House in Toronto hosted an unforgettable performance by GoGo Penguin, the instrumental trio hailing from Manchester, England. Since 2013, Chris Illingworth (piano), Jon Scott (drums), and Nick Blacka (double bass) have been praised for their originality and inspiration in the music industry.

    Jazz singer Melanie Charles opened the evening, captivating the audience with her soulful voice. Being a one person band for the evening , along with singing she played flute, piano and used backing tracks and a loop pedal. The near capacity crowd seemed to enjoy her performance.

    Melanie Charles

    As GoGo Penguin began their set, the room was filled with the jazz trio’s mesmerizing sound, beginning with “An Unbroken Thread of Awareness.” The group’s chemistry was undeniable, with Illingworth’s intricate piano playing complementing Blacka’s grooving bass lines and Scotts’s powerful drumming.

    GoGo Penguin’s setlist was a masterful blend of their original compositions, including “Signal in the Noise,” “We May Not Stay,” “Glimmerings,” “Wave Decay,” “Lost In Thought”, “The Antidote Is in the Poison,” “Friday Film Special,” “Saturnine,” “Soon Comes Night,” “Everything Is Going to Be OK,” “Ascent,” “Murmuration,” “Transient State,” “Hopopono,” and “Protest.”

    GoGo Penguin

    Despite the minor setback of the pedal on the grand piano breaking, causing a delay of about 20 minutes, GoGo Penguin remained professional and improvisational. This unplanned interlude allowed the audience to witness the trio’s skills of repairing a piano quickly.

    As the night progressed, GoGo Penguin’s performance reached new heights with each song. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly their encore, consisting of “You’re Stronger Than You Think” and “Parasite.” The trio poured their hearts into these final songs, leaving the audience breathless and wanting more.

    Jon Scott

    GoGo Penguin’s performance was a testament to their talent and musicianship. Their music was complex, thought-provoking, and emotive, leaving the audience in awe. The trio’s ability to seamlessly blend their individual styles and create a sound that was uniquely their own was truly remarkable.

    Nick Blacka

    As the crowd left the Opera House, there was a sense of collective elation and satisfaction. GoGo Penguin had once again proven why they are one of the most exciting and original bands in the world of instrumental music. Their performance was a true masterpiece, and one that will be remembered for years to come. They last played the Western New York area in 2018 at the Rochester Jazz Festival.

    Talking to a GoGo Penguin Fan

    After the concert, we had the opportunity to speak with a GoGo Penguin fan named Shari who was completely blown away by the performance. “Emotionally, the band’s music splits my mind into millions of pieces,” she shared. “In the moments of listening, I do not want anything, being in meditation synchronization with all the moments of the past and the future at once. Incredible energy. I am grateful to them”

    It was clear that this Shari was moved by the music and had a deep appreciation for the trio’s unique sound. She went on to explain that they had been following GoGo Penguin for several years and had never seen them perform live before. “It was everything I hoped it would be and more,” she exclaimed. “Their music takes you on a journey, and you never want it to end.”

    When asked about their favorite moment of the concert, the fan had a hard time choosing just one. “It’s hard to pick just one moment because the whole concert was incredible,” she said. “But I think the encore was definitely a highlight. ‘You’re Stronger Than You Think’ and ‘Parasite’ were the perfect way to end the show. I felt like I was part of something really special.”

    As our conversation came to a close, it was evident that this GoGo Penguin fan had been deeply impacted by the concert. “I’m already looking forward to the next time they come to town,” she said. “Their music has a way of bringing people together and creating an unforgettable experience. I feel lucky to have been a part of it.”

    GoGo Penguin’s music is a unique blend of break-beats, minimalist piano melodies, powerful basslines, and drums inspired by electronica, combined with anthemic riffs. They compose and perform together as a unit, resulting in a cohesive sound that is both powerful and mesmerizing. Their music draws from a wide range of influences, including electronica, trip-hop, jazz, rock, and classical music.

    Chris Illingworth

    Music critics have praised GoGo Penguin’s sound, comparing it to other acclaimed artists such as Esbjörn Svensson Trio, Aphex Twin, Squarepusher, and Massive Attack. Additionally, they have been likened to renowned composers such as Brian Eno, as well as modern classical composers like Shostakovich and Debussy, or contemporary minimal music composers such as Philip Glass. These comparisons attest to the diverse range of influences that GoGo Penguin draws upon to create their unique sound.