Yesterday I went to downtown Hamilton to the very staple of music culture, the one and only Underground. Home of amazing bands from across the province and country who come to play for loyal fans. Last night was full of bands that made me go wow and made me sad when they were finished playing.
The first set of the night was a band called The Risen. The Risen is a hard rock band from Brantford Ontario. If you really listen to the lyrics, you will hear how much passion is behind every word. The lyrics are so well written and mature. Their best song called Our Human Condition is referring to how little we care about what's happening around us. About how we aren't engaging ourselves in the world and letting our life just pass us by. So many times during the set my friend and I would look at each other with our mouths open because of singer Jordan's voice. He would hold high notes for such a long time. Not a lot of singers can do that. These guys meshed so well onstage. It was great to watch. I loved this set. I hope they get brought back to the Underground really soon.
The next band up was The Imports. The Imports are an alternative rock band from Mississauga. They sound like your average rock band ... but with a twist. Singer Earl Abaljon has a really different voice. It's higher than most guys can sing. His voice is really magic to listen to. Another twist to this band is the keyboard. Nathan Dumancas kicked ass on keyboards. You can tell he's been playing for a really long time. Playing fast doesn't automatically make you a good player. What he was playing was pretty simple, but it was how he was playing it that made his playing so great. It's all about technique and how you look at the music. Nathan got both of those things down perfectly. Great set guys can't wait to see you again!
Next up is a band called Loaded. I've seen them only one other time at the Underground. Two seconds into the set I knew that I would love the music. Guitarist and singer Joe Janicas is the ultimate rock star. His afro was huge, and was always in his face. Halfway through his set he unbuttoned his shirt, which got quite a good response. This band is so driven. They are so full of energy and it really comes across in their playing. Lead guitarist Ron Corsini was like the definition of cool. Leaning band and forth barely changing his expression. Any guy would wish to look that cool. This is a band I could see playing in an arena or stadium for 25,000 people and have them all under the Loaded spell. I feel that this band is going to go far. Keep it up guys! Good luck!
Next band up is Sunday Night Cruise. Two years ago, beginning of high school, I went down to the auditorium for yet another boring assembly. I didn't get what I expected. Instead Sunday Night Cruise was standing on the stage and played 3 or 4 songs for us. That seriously made my day complete. Seeing them finally two years later made my day complete once again. My favourite song of the night was Overnight Success. I was jumping around in the front singing along. One part they sing without the music. They say "lay down your guns, your hands in the open, this is the hour we sing for the broken". I think those are great lyrics. How all the voices go together show how experienced and talented this band is. So many bands try to sing without any music, and it doesn't always work out. The only part I didn't like was the lack of "The Terrorist". But that's okay, it's a really old song. I can't wait to see them again!!!
Wow, thanks so much! Say hey next time we play for you, we appreciate the recognition!
Lots of love, The Risen
Posted by: Alex // The Risen | October 20, 2007 at 11:33 PM
That is awesome thanks for the kind words of The Imports. And SNC did kick ass didn't they.
Hope to see you at the next show.
Posted by: Chris | October 15, 2007 at 04:44 PM