There are many things to get excited about in this month’s concert lineup, which features a numbers of artists who don’t come calling nearly enough. Here are 10 amazing shows to check out in May.
July Talk, Lee’s Palace, May 3
One of the coolest new bands to emerge from the local music scene in years is July Talk, featuring the unique growl of singer Peter Dreimanis paired with the sweet and sultry vocals of Leah Fay. The band blew up last year when they released “The Garden” off of their debut album. Catch them while you can.
Neko Case with The Dodos, Massey Hall, May 9
Neko Case is simply one of the finest singers of her generation and catching her at a venue such as Massey Hall is always a major concert event. Now, you throw in the amazing American indie band The Dodos, and that just makes it so much sweeter. Go.
Wye Oak with Braids, The Legendary Horseshoe Tavern, May 11
American indie folk duo Wye Oak are lovely and dreamy and always take the route less travelled with their music. We like that. Throw in one of our favourite local bands, Braids, and this concert looks to be one of the highlights of the May calendar.
Lana Del Rey, May 13, Sony Centre
When Lana Del Rey released her latest single “West Coast” the masses were pleased. There has been some controversy, some haters, some lovers, but there is no denying her talent or her impact. And, if “West Coast” is an indicator, we're interested in seeing where this thing goes.
George Thorogood & The Destroyers, May 15, Massey Hall
A true rock ‘n’ roll warrior is hard to come by. George Thorogood rocks. That's kinda his thing. And, he's been doing it since his second album Movin' On Over made him a star back in 1978. No surprises, just hard-driving, bluesy rock done right.
Danny Michel, May 19, Dakota Tavern
Oh Danny Michel, we think you are just swell. This guy is crafty, he has great stories from the stage, his songwriting is top notch. And, it’s the Dakota. We like the Dakota.
Morcheeba, May 23, Danforth Music Hall
Remember trip hop? Ya, that was a thing. And British band Morcheeba was one of the bands that brought attention to the downtempo, sexy beats back in the mid-90s thanks in part to the luscious vocals of singer Skye Edwards. They got the band back together in 2009 and have kept working on new material. Remember, trip hop is a state of mind, man. If you’re not ready to groove, stay home.
Eels, May 27, Winter Garden Theatre
The eccentric and wonderfully talented Mark Oliver Everett, a.k..a “E” and his band Eels take the stage at the Winter Garden Theatre for a rare and most welcome concert appearance. But the big question, will they play “Cold Dead Hand” the parody video starring Jim Carrey.
Kurt Vile, May 28, Phoenix Concert Theatre
This talented musician’s latest album, Wakin’ On A Pretty Daze, was on many best-of lists in 2013. A former member of indie outfit War On Drugs, vile checks into the Phoenix. This should be a great one.
Skrillex, May 30, Echo Beach
Who doesn't love a smattering of Skrillex at the end of the month? The American electronic musician has a massive following, and has won numerous Grammy Awards for his music. He's got an album on the way, so expect some new material.
