By Will McGuirk
The weather is turning, the tide is high, the first music festival of the year for Slowcity.ca is the Springtide taking place this weekend, Apr 26/27 in Uxbridge, ON. Wristbands are sold out but there are many free acoustic pop-ups for pop-in visitors. The schedule is out so here’s our guide to and five acts you should circle in.
Jitensha
Jitensha - This Montreal based duo may seem like the odd ones out at the Tin Mill Restaurant Friday night. They are to be easily overlooked on a bill which includes Springtide co-founder Tanis Joy’s band, 7th Concession, two of Canada’s finest singer/songwriters; Kalle Mattson and Jim Bryson and also Tannis Slimmon, of the Bird Sisters, but don’t. The Jitensha set is not the time to skip out to see who else is on elsewhere. The two piece came through Oshawa recently and their lighthearted mix of pop and folk was a joy to dance along too. Friday, Tin Mill, done.
Matt Gunn - The Gunn is a central figure in the Uxbridge scene, either solo and band projects. His style ranges from Elvis Costello to the Gypsy Kings, but it all carries soul. There are plenty of opportunities to see him (his quaker ska band Eight Five Two plays Saturday 10 pm at the Corner House) but I would suggest Col. McGrady’s at Friday 1 a.m. Thats where the party will be at.
Mount Mural - A four piece from Barrie ON with slivery hooks and weaving rhythms - the sound of isolation and many Nick Drake albums. The project started with an unemployed Clayton McMillan grasping his own future and we at slowcity.ca support that one hundred per cent. MM is at Main Street Realty at 2 p.m. Saturday.
Luna Li - The diesel drenched dream pop of Luna Li has been bubbling in the TO underground and is steady enough to burst out. I blame the half grit, half sparkle of the surf-esque guitar. Luna Li is on the Second Wedge stage Saturday at 5 p.m.
Goodnight Sunrise - Nu-glam from Toronto, this band carries 80s synth pop riffs through 90s pop rock to the anthemic 00s. Saturday 11 p.m. is just about the perfect time to get down with these kats and celebrate the Springtide vibes.