Beirut @ Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver, July 28, 2012

Having seen them 3 times before, I knew what to expect but they're on my list of 'whenever I get a chance' bands and they were wonderful.  I much prefer the intimacy of smaller clubs but the acoustics in the Orpheum were very well suited to the band and oh, those horns.  A lovely evening of music by one of my favourite bands.

Wye Oak @ Venue, Vancouver, July 24, 2012

They weren't planning to tour this year but the support slot was offered and it was, fortunately for me, too good to turn down.  Civilian was one of my favourite albums of 2011 and given the chance to see them, I'll always take it.  They sounded superb, played most of my favourite songs and it was a relatively early night.  A great way to spend a Tuesday.

Youth Lagoon @ Venue, Vancouver, July 21, 2012

 

Having enjoyed their set at SXSW, I was really looking forward to their debut Vancouver show.  They didn't disappoint and in fact, I thought they sounded much better than at SXSW.  The guitarist, in particular, sounded superb and I can't wait to see them again.

Father John Misty @ Venue, Vancouver, July 21, 2012

I'd seen the Fleet Foxes at Richard's a few years ago and I remember that their drummer was quite chatty and even did a few solo songs ... fast forward a few years and he's now got a solo project.  The set was very enjoyable and he's clearly very comfortable on stage, which is rare but makes for a better show.

Florence & The Machine @ Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, July 20, 2012

I've been a fan of them for about 6 years but such are the vagaries of touring/living in Vancouver that I'd only seen them once (at the Commodore) so when the (very large venue/very expensive) Deer Lake show was announced I couldn't resist.  I hate big venues and there are very few artists that I'd go see in such a setting but Florence is one of them.  She'd cancelled a couple of shows the week before due to  'vocal problems' the week before but she sounded as wonderful as I'd remembered.  A true talent.  My only complaint (aside from the screeching woman behind me) was the two backup singers ... I didn't want to hear anyone singing other than Florence.

The Walkmen @ Deer Lake Park, Burnaby, July 20 2012

I've seen them a few times before but wouldn't say I was a fan and wasn't that excited when they were announced as support but ... funny how a band can surprise you.  They put on a wonderful set and I came away a fan.

Lower Dens @ Media Club, Vancouver, July 7, 2012

I think the last time I saw Lower Dens in Vancouver (at the same venue) there were maybe 10 people in the crowd.  Fortunately two years later, a couple of hundred people in town have figured out what I've known all along - Lower Dens are great.  They're one of my favourite bands and they put on a superb set.