Dance Dance Evolution

3 bands played at Massey Hall Friday night, and each in their own way didn't quite fit with the vibe of this venerable hall. First up was siblings Too Attached. Their low-key synth-pop couldn't quite get the early crowd to respond. There were some cheers for singer's Vivek Shraya coming out as transgender. Next up was noisy indie band Torres. The problem is that I've found that Massey Hall's acoustics (though famed) sound muddy when there are lots of guitar and effects. In this case, Mackenzie Scott's introspective lyrics got buried in the mix.

Tegan and Sara's set was generally fun and infectious in the dance-pop vein. But most people remained seated as per the usual Massey Hall crowd. The new songs off their latest album were undoubtedly pop, but the sisters had also converted most of their back catalogue to be more dance and synth. It was a bit hit-and-miss, some worked while others sounded dull and inane. Their older fans cheered loudly when the sisters brought out a guitar for a 3-song acoustic break. The newer numbers did allow them to finally get the butts off the seats with Closer, Boyfriend, and Stop Desire.