3 Chords

Wednesday night, I left The Monarch Tavern with its oldie vibes (both audience and music) for The Silver Dollar Room. Given the punk line-up, I was expecting a much younger crowd and I wasn't disappointed. But it was mid-week, and I suppose the young-uns also had school or work the next day, so it was a bit sparse there.

Winter94 was what you expected: tight 3-piece, short explosive songs, lots of shouting. Empath (members of Perfect Pussy) was more unusual. Given its 2 female singers and both synth and digital bass, there was an ethereal vibe riding on top of the hard punk guitar chords and drums. I was drifting off to sleep between sets and considered heading home (the perils of geezer-dom), but persevered for Vagabon.

I was glad I stayed. This diminutive singer had a great set. She showed her rough roots on some furious numbers. But she also demonstrated fine guitar skills and a soft beautiful voice on several quiet songs. I wasn't surprised her merch table was mobbed afterwards. I was also glad of the diversity on stage tonight compared to the majority of shows in Toronto.

I was sorry to miss Allison Crutchfield but I had no energy left for her headlining set.