By Will McGuirk

“Toronto has one of the most remarkable, diverse and impactful music histories of any city in the world and over the past 40 years, Lee’s Palace has played an integral part in telling that amazing story. Lee’s Palace has always embodied a cutting-edge nature and innovative spirit. We at MODO-LIVE intend to carry on its rich history to a new generation of music fans for another 40 years and beyond.” - Justin Kwan (CEO MODO-LIVE)

As live music venues continue to be under threat from a variety of forces it is welcome news to hear of one which has survived, and thrived for now four decades. And that its Lee’s Palace, one of my T.O. go to venues, well, that makes the news so much gooderer. I was at Lee’s most recently for Spanish duo Hinds, but I’ve had some great nights over the years at the club including several CMW and NXNE showcases, and always the Sadies, who recorded a two night concert there released as Sadies In Concert Vol. 1 in 2006.

Our pals at Modo Live have announced a year long celebration of the club on Bloor Street with the iconic facade created by Al Runt) featuring a pretty fad line-up of acts; Pussy Riot, Preoccupations, PomPom Squad, Protest The Hero, and other acts that don’t start with the letter P.

The 40th Anniversary celebrations begin Wednesday Jan 22 with NY rapper and producer Kool Keith. The incredible and innovative jazz artist Adrian Younge comes in Mar 9, not to be missed.

More acts will be announced and there is a party in September planned, the month the club opened. So stay tuned, in fact don’t stay tuned, go out and see a band there. Its a great spot.