The End of History

When I bought some bao ($3.25) from Huy Ky on Wednesday, I also purchased a tofu banh mi ($5.25). This worked out as I was too lethargic from the heat to leave my rental Thursday afternoon for dinner. After another hour of semi-slumber, I finally roused myself for a cold shower and headed to an evening concert.

My spot was only a 10-minute walk to the concert venue History. I hadn't planned to come back here after Rina Sawayama's show. I also felt mildly disappointed at my last Men I Trust concert. Though it turned out to be an excellent show, this was it for me on both counts. More on that later.

The opener Strongboi (a side-project of Alice Phoebe Lou) had a similar vibe as the headliner with chill songs like Tough Girl and Cold. There was more of a smooth 70s R'n'B foundation to their music. So it was apropos when they covered Bound (Ponderosa Twins Plus One). Though the big cheer from the  audience was likely from its sampling in Kanye West's Bound 2.

There were numerous negatives that made me side-eye History: long line-up (Massey Hall is larger without any waiting), airport security (overzealous bag check, scanner gates, screening trays), a young crowd (no masking, someone threw up at the front, another collapsed in the back as I was heading out). They did have a crystal clear sound system though, Men I Trust never sounded so good. But I don't want to set foot in here ever again.

Emma and her band released 2 new albums this year. Along with their back catalogue, they now have a large set of songs to choose from. Some preferred the new, folksy tunes. Others liked the older lofi music but beefed up for a live show. So the applause and participation varied but were never unanimous. Except for about 1 hour into the show when they did a "medley" of their old tunes. That got the crowd more excited than just some head-nodding. Even so, it didn't include other favourites so some wags by the bar screamed for Tailwhip.

Cognizant of the price I paid the last time I overstayed a show, I headed out after that high point. Lightning was flashing in the sky with thunder approaching rapidly. Just as I stepped inside the house, the rain came pouring down. I was mighty glad that I didn't stop by the merch table or for late-night taco (Holi Taco). Not to sound like a hipster, but I wished them much success with the newer fans. I have my memory of their Horseshoe Tavern show when the young'uns were still in grade school.