Canadian Music Fest picks Friday to Sunday

As we gear up for what is going to be 5 days of amazing music, no sleep, and plenty of beer (AKA Canadian Music Fest); have you thought about what you’re going to see yet? I keep changing my mind about every 10 minutes, but here are my picks for must see shows from FRIDAY to SUNDAY!

Friday

Nightbox

I must admit I know very little about Toronto’s Nightbox but I have heard amazing things about them from those who have seen them live. If new wave is your flavor check ‘em out at Underground Garage at 11:15. They also play on Saturday at Part and Labour at 1:30 am.

Erik Jorgensen

All those who know me, know I’m a sucker for the folksy stuff. So it’s no wonder I’m so pumped to check out Eric Jorgensen. If you’re looking for something a little more chill, Singer-Songwritery, and acoustic head to The Central for Midnight!

These Electric Lives

These Electric Lives took home the much deserved top prize at Indie Week this year. If you wanna see what it was about them that captivated the judges, you’re gonna want to be at Underground Garage at midnight.

Courage My Love
A pretty solid bet for a good time is the high energy pop punk tunes from a band out of Kitchener called Courage My Love. They were one group of the… well, of the many that I didn’t get to see during Indie Week. They got rave reviews about their performances, so you can pretty much guarantee I’m going to be at this show. Cherry Cola’s 3AM. Also playing TONIGHT at 1030 at El Mocambo- upstairs.

Protest The Hero

Protest the Hero are one of the bands that I loved in high school. For some sick Metal ( and for some of us a good dose of Nostalgia) check ‘em out at The Bovine Sex Club at midnight.

And once you’ve been totally exhausted from a Friday of music, find some strength! There are LOTS of great shows on Saturday too!

Saturday

Neon Windowlicker

If Post-Hardcore is your thing, Neon Windowlicker is for you! On stage at 11 at Silver Dollar.

Die Mannequin

In some circles Die Mannequin are considered Toronto royalty. When I moved back to the city a couple years ago I was looking for some good local bands to get into. I asked a friends for suggestions and without thinking he says “Oh man, you gotta check out Die Mannequin. I saw Care Failure at a convenience store once and nearly died! She rocks so hard! She’s awesome.” IF alternative/punk rock is what you’re craving, be at The Phoenix for 12:30am.

Balconies

The Balconies are another native Toronto favourite. For a fun show and great Alt rock, be at Lee’s Palace for 10pm. And while you’re there, stay for Paper Lion, Electric Six and Bella Clava!

Sunday

Seven Year Riot

This is another Mikey Riot pick and he’s totally pumped for this show. Since I trust his judgment, so am I! IF you’re looking for some rock n roll head to Cherry Colas for 10pm and experience Seven Year Riot with me for the first time!

this is just a tiny taste of all that’s to come in the next few days. For all details and scheduling info visit canadianmusicfest.com