But
I went to Hot Hot Heat, because I felt guilty about not doing shows yesterday (ie. Islands, which, as it turns out, Hot Hot Heat went to) (+1). Managed to 'borrow' Gill's press pass (pictured is Andrew's) for the $25 to go back into my pocket. (+10)
Most buses were chillin like a villain at home too, because they were operating only every 20 or 25 minutes (-10). & What did I say the conditions were like? I made it 30 minutes late, but you know how rockstars are... I got there just in time not having to endure bad opening acts. (+5)
(Montreal rarely has separate traffic lights for pedestrians.)First thing I note:
The very normal audience. Not an indie kid to be seen anywhere. When HHH had their first EP, a select few expat indie kids in Europe were very excited, and the word quickly spread among Livejournal scenesters. No longer! There were many an ugly boy or girl there tonight. (-4)
The new album explains this heartbreaking audience shift rather well. Compared to their older songs, these new ones are bland and if it weren't for Bays' voice, one would find it difficult to distinguish them from any punk rock bands' (yes, Billboard Top 30 'punk' rock). (-7)
Swimming in the big pond mainstream in itself is not all negative; it also reveals the indie snob's transience with 'IT picks' (+1)...
What is, to me, negative is-
youthful arrogance. (-2)
There's probably a fine line between confidence and arrogance in musical showmanship, as there is in life, but Hot Hot Heat- save for quiet Mr. Dustin Hawthorne on the bass- fails to walk that tightrope. Steve Bays, the lead vocalist, actually spasms all over it. We forgive him, though, because of the brilliant melodies and his trademark voice. (+20)
The drummer of a band acts as the heart: HHH's drummer, Paul Hawley, has so much driving energy, it really must be rare for a Hot Hot Heat audience to not nod heads or dance with him. (+12)
The monkey wearing the T-shirt with SECURITE written on it 'warned' me twice and 'the last time' about taking pictures. I point to the press card. He impatiently flips it over, and is not satisfied. In fact, he has no idea what it is. He leaves with a quarter shake of the head. (-10)
Kids 6'5 standing way in front hiding everyone's view. (-10)
^ This 6'5 cracker with the condom on his head. May he be impotent.Overall score: not good. HHH sounds just like the albums, and though there is that arrogance, it can hardly be likened to Owen Pallet's. It felt like I was at a high school. But if you want to hear how brilliantly Bays sings, once is recommended.
P.S. Went back to Puces for 2nd round shopping (pictures secret) and supporting Jesse.
