Although the polar vortex has made most of us forget what anything other than winter is, spring is soon approaching, and for music lovers, this means no more waiting outside in the cold before a concert! There’s always great music coming to Toronto, but it can be easy to miss a concert listing from your favourite band within the waves of artists promoting their shows. To ease your efforts, I’ve put together a small, but vital concert guide for the spring/summer and why you should make it a point to attend.
Misfits – March 28/29 @ The Rockpile West/East
It’s not the 80s anymore, but even without Glenn Danzig, punk isn’t dead and the Misfits are still rocking. Whether you’re in your forties trying to relive your teenage punk days or you just grew up listening to your dad’s Misfits records, it’s time to lace up those leather boots and experience what horror punk from your parents’ generation was like.
James Vincent McMorrow – April 2 @ The Danforth Music Hall
An indie sweetheart from Dublin, McMorrow’s soft, folk-y voice will make you swoon and want to get on a boat and sail to see your significant other. Unlike the Misfits, there probably won’t be much moshing at this show, but you can expect to your heart to melt at the sounds of a beautiful acoustic set.
City and Colour – May 9 @ Air Canada Centre
Canada’s pride and joy is returning to Toronto in May and has booked the Air Canada Centre (how exciting!) Dallas Green has come a far way since his hardcore Alexisonfire days and has stunned the world with his soulful and acoustic flair. With the release of his latest album last year, The Hurry and Harm, you can expect a bit more production and band at this show.
Metronomy – May 19 @ The Phoenix Concert Theatre
An English band best described as playing wonky pop; Metronomy has been experimenting with cool and new sounds since 1999 and is capable of garnering interest from all ages. The band has heavy electronic influences and unexpected beats like no other. Best way to prepare for the show? Start practicing those awkward jolty dance moves that will be welcomed here with open arms.
Phoenix – June 10 @ Sound Academy
There’s a reason that music talents, such as Birdy, have covered Phoenix songs, and it’s simply because they make outstanding music that’s not only catchy, but interesting. If originating from Versailles isn’t cool enough, the band’s dance-y beats don’t involve lyrics about generic topics and can be appreciated by everyone (yes, even your parents.)
Arctic Monkeys – June 21 @ Molson Canadian Ampitheatre
Part of the psychedelic rock genre, the Arctic Monkeys seems to fall somewhere between bands like MGMT and Phoenix. The band has gained significant attention since their beginnings in 2002 and it’s probable that you’ve heard at least one of their songs. This show is a must see if you’re an indie music lover.
Arcade Fire – August 29 @ Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Another Canadian talent, Arcade Fire was formed in Montreal, and like the Arctic Monkeys, they are considered part of the post-punk revival, while experimenting in areas like art rock as well. The band offers an assortment of interesting lyrics, heavy instrumentals for those nights you want to rock out, but also softer simplistic melodies. Even though their music is great all year round, there’s no better way to end your summer 2014 than with some good old Arcade Fire.
If you’re interested in any of these shows, now would be the time to go and scope out any tickets that are left and mark your calendars! There may be limited tickets left, so if you’re having trouble getting tickets, try ticket re-sale websites or classified ads and just be sure to have a rocking spring-summer season!
By: Julia Ho
