The free concert series for the Ottawa Dragon Boat Festival opened with a bang courtesy of July Talk who stormed the stage with their latest single Push + Pull. That song has been a daily listen for me for the last few weeks. Hearing Peter Dreimanis’ gruff vocals for the tune live, you’d have thought he was about ready to jump in the audience and tear someone’s head off.
Thankfully the band continued their set to the delight of the crowd who swayed and bounced along with the beat of every song. The only interruption came late in the evening courtesy a couple of trouble makers up front who were told to kiss and makeup.
It was my first time seeing July Talk live and I can’t wait to do it again! I am impatiently waiting on the release of their next album. Until then, I will have to do with my daily fix of Push + Pull.
When I first arrived, I made my way to the new beach stage that was added this year. I was happy to catch a set from Ottawa’s the Lionyls, winners of the 2014 LiVE 88.5 Big Money Shot. I’ve seen the band a few times now, and they always put on an entertaining show. Tonight was no exception. Apparently there is a debut album coming soon. I look forward to hearing what the boys have cooked up.
Next, I headed over to the main stage, where I had my first introduction to Montreal’s The Muscadettes. The band fronted by twin sisters Chantal and Kathleen Ambridge dropped an entertaining set of pop rock for the growing crowd. It took me a few songs to get into them, but I’d definitely like to hear more.
Before the Muscadettes set was done, it was time for one last trip back to the beach stage to check in on Ottawa’s The Balconies ahead of July Talk. It’s been a while since I’ve seen them, so it was great to catch another performance and get a taste of some new music. At some point, you just know Jacquie is going to flail around with her guitar. As always, I’m patiently waiting with camera, hoping to grab a decent shot as she wails away. Keep your ears peeled. The Balconies also have a new album coming out in the fall.
July Talk
The Muscadettes
The Balconies
The Lionyls
