Friends in Bellwoods

I'm so glad this compilation exists. It's a time capsule is what it is. This two-disc, thirty-six song album rounds up some of the best talent from across Ontario, some unknown, some who have been quite successful. Here though, they're all on the same level. It's something well all be able to look back on with pride. Did I mention the music is amazing?

Last night their was a CD Release party for the show at the Tranzac (capacity 150). The line-up went as far as my eyes could see through the rain, and considering they had pretty much sold-out the venue beforehand in advanced tickets, there was no chance of any of these people getting in. As soon as doors opened, they were closed again. Only a handful of people were let in, and I was not included. This is where it helps to know people. Thanks to a handful of people, who shall remain anonymous, I finally got in and caught the last the last two songs of The D'Urbervilles' set.

Next up were The Splinters, Bry Webb's new project, which includes members of several other bands including Tricky Woo and Snailhouse. They were so fantastic, and I'd have to say they were the best Constantines' side-project I've seen live. Their sound is comparable to the Cons' songs "St. You" and "Soon Enough," but he's taken it in an even folkier direction with the addition of banjo and lap steel. It sounded really great. I recognized one of the songs from the last time I saw Bry play solo (also at the Tranzac, two summers ago), and I was able to talk to him at the end of the night and he said he planned to record, which is great to hear.

Sebastien Grainger and his band played third, and considering it was their first show, it kicked all kinds of ass. It wasn't the tightest performace of course, but the songs were awesome and I just know if they record an album it'll be killer. Sebastien's transition from drummer to guitarist seems to have gone very smoothly. I was impressed with his energetic stage presence and how he just seemed to be having a really good time. I talked to him afterwards and he said he couldn't wait to do it again. He won't have to wait too long, since he's already been booked to open for Bloc Party when they go on tour in March.

Closing off the night, quite fittingly, was Ohbijou, whose members Casey Mecija and James Bunton are credited for organizing this whole thing. I saw them last summer and I enjoyed them then, but this time I was honestly blown away by how good they really are live. The songs are just so beautiful. I loved looking around the stage and seeing what each member was doing, and appreciating how well it all went together. I picked up their album, so you'll be hearing my thoughts on it sometime soon.

Go learn more at their website: Friends In Bellwoods
All proceeds from the concert and CD sales go to the Daily Bread Food Bank.