The 20th annual NXNE music festival is officially underway with a slew of bands ready to pack into any and all manner of performance venues over the next 10 days from street cars to Yonge-Dundas Square. Yes, the festival is no longer just about music. There is a film series, comedy, art and more. But, the music is what really matters. And, this year’s NXNE has some amazing shows planned. Here are a handful that we’re looking forward to.
St. Vincent
This year’s primo signing, American musician St. Vincent is dazzling. Her latest eponymous album follows up her stunning work with David Byrne on Love This Giant. An accomplished and energetic performer, St. Vincent is one very good reason to deal with a trip to Yonge-Dundas Square (June 20, Yonge-Dundas Square).
Eagulls
It wouldn’t be NXNE without a stand-out post-punk outfit from the U.K.—enter Eagulls. These Leeds-based rockers made waves for a post slamming bands at SXSW, but they are so much more than that. Serious chops, bit of notoriety, all good (June 20 Yonge-Dundas Square, Edward Day Gallery, June 21 Lee’s Palace).
Mac Demarco
This is one show to just attend without asking any darn questions. Canadian musician Mac Demarco has put out a solid new album in Salad Days, but checking him out live is a weird and wonderful experience. His slacker-rock, and unique personality make this show a stand-out (June 20, Opera House and June 21, Yonge-Dundas Square).
Barr Brothers
Another band that always offers up a compelling live performance, Barr Brothers are part of a slate of shows at Massey Hall—a first for NXNE. The folk quartet have a new album due out in October entitled Sleeping Opera, so hopefully fans will get a sneak peek during their NXNE show (Sennheiser House at Massey Hall, June 20).
Spoon
This killer American indie rock outfit return to town in support of their new album Rent, set for release on Aug. 5. Another big NXNE headliner, sadly the only chance to see them will be at Yonge-Dundas Square. Still, go, have your fun (June 21, Yonge-Dundas Square).
Omar Souleyman
A former Syrian wedding singer, Omar Souleyman has exploded in popularity of late thanks to his association with big-name artists such as Bjork and Gorillaz. This is sure to be a unique show (June 19, House of Vans and June 20, Yonge-Dundas Square).
Sleigh Bells
Falling soundly into the ass-kick category, Sleigh Bells is a show to highlight if you just want to rock out. It’ll be loud and it’ll be energetic, and they'll likely include some material from their upcoming new album Bitter Rivals. What more do you want (June 19, Yonge-Dundas Square)?
Zeus
This talented Toronto band just channels vintage rock and spins it into a dizzying array of sonic delights. It’s an incredible collection of musicians, and seeing them in a venue such as Cameron House will be a real treat (June 21, Cameron House).
Jacques Green with Tommy Kruise and Jim-E Stack
Headliner Jacques Greene has earned accolades from big names such as Thom Yorke for his brand of R&B house grooves, while supporting act Tommy Kruise has been doing his thing in the instrumental trap scene. Jim-E Stack’s grime- and Baltimore club-influenced house tracks fit perfectly on this beats-heavy bill. Be prepared to shake some serious booty (June 18, The Hoxton).
The Felice Brothers
Founded in 2006, The Felice Brothers offer up some quirky, humourous folk rock that separates them in a really positive way from other nouveau folk acts such as The Lumineers with songs such as “Cherry Licorice” and “Frankie’s Gun.” They are currently touring their new album Favorite Waitress out June 17 (June 21, Horseshoe Tavern).
