There's a veritable smorgasbord of auditory delights in Toronto this month as the warm summer breezes have blown in some seriously hot music. In addition to festivals such as North by Northeast and Luminato that offer up hundreds of shows, there are many other great concerts this month from the ranks of the almost-famous to the biggest names on the planet. Herewith, our top 10.
Field Trip
There are many reasons to go to Field Trip this weekend: the incredible food options, the big Broken Social Scene reunion show, Kevin Drew and his songs about cosmetics, and up-and-coming singer Lowell, to name a few. But, let’s be honest, this weekend is all about The Kills. There, we said it. They're one of the best live acts, true old school rockers, and, well, Alison Mosshart is our choice as front person of the decade. Go, have your fun (Garrison Commons, June 7 and 8).
Ray Lamontagne
Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Ray Lamontagne tromps the acoustically groovy Massey Hall stage for two shows on back-to-back nights this month in support of his new album Supernova. This guy is fantastic (Massey Hall, June 8).
Daniel Lanois
As part of the Luminato Festival, iconic Canadian singer/songwriter/producer and all-around musical genius Daniel Lanois is being given the royal treatment at Massey Hall. A number of top notch performers including Kevin Drew, Emmylou Harris and Martha Wainwright will honour the great Quebec native in song (Massey Hall, June 10).
Kelis
American R&B singer Kelis checks into the Danforth Music Hall for what is sure to be a decidedly funky evening. Kelis is a winner of many fine awards including multiple Brit Awards, NME Awards and Q Awards. She’s in town in support of her new album, Food. Oh ya, and she’s a certified chef (Danforth Music Hall, June 11).
Elvis Costello
Toronto has lucked out landing one of 10 new “SOLO” tour dates from this legendary British rocker. Apparently, these performances are all the rage, with folks using adjectives such as "remarkable" with reckless abandon. This guy seems to know what he's doing. Might be worth the risk (Massey Hall, June 14).
Ziggy Marley
One of the most exciting performances at this year’s Luminato Festival is Ziggy Marley with Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars. Marley, a wonderful, engaging performer is on tour for his new album Fly Rasta (David Pecault Square, June 14).
St. Vincent
One of the biggest names at this year’s North by Northeast Music Festival, St. Vincent is slated to perform on June 20 at an as-yet-to-be-disclosed venue in support of her new eponymous album. The talented multi-instrumentalist is at her most confident on the new album, following on the heels of a very successful collaboration with David Byrne.
Danny Michel
Popular Toronto singer/songwriter Danny Michel checks into the venerable Dakota Tavern for a month long residency, performing on Monday nights throughout June. Expect some cool special guests (Dakota Tavern, Mondays in June).
Dave Matthews Band
One of the finest performers in music, a Dave Matthews Band concert experience is unique and utterly entertaining. An incredible band, engaging performer and the highest of energy levels (Molson Canadian Amphitheatre, June 24).
Beck
Where would we be without Beck, he of quirky songs such as “Loser” and funked-up anthems such as “Devil’s Haircut,” or the drop-dead gorgeous tunes on full display on his new album Morning Phase. This guy is a rare talent (Sony Centre, June 27).
