"So I'm sitting here listening to an advance copy of the upcoming debut EP by a local band called Whale Tooth, and I'm immediately blown away by the band's sophisticated ability to craft a clever and danceable pop song. Their immediate appeal makes their "just over a year" existence come across as a cleverly fabricated myth since they sound like a band with experience on their side. The diversity of the Toronto music scene is already very impressive, and this local band is already making waves as a stellar addition to the scene.
The EP opens with Hibernation Song, a delicious refurbishing of a late 70's new wave sound; the kind that Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson used to present with perfection. Track two is Six Billion, a power pop song that showcases very strong male / female vocals that shy away from the usual romantic interplay and just keep things light and fun. Sleepwalking is a mellower song, where Elise LeGrow's vocals sound eerily similar to Monique Powell (of 90's ska-punkers Save Ferris), albeit displayed with a sultrier, jazzier lilt. Speaking of that ska punk sound, Marlboro Beach Bonanza starts to dip into that territory a little bit, creating a vibe that is sure to get the crowds dancing like wild at the local dive bar or beach party. And the EP goes out with a bang by ending with Clever, a song that is exactly that, both lyrically and in the infectious way that it presents itself. I can't wait to hear that one in a live setting as well, especially since I'm sure that it too will get the crowds dancing around all hyperactive-like.
In an indie world that has a tendency to take itself too seriously at times, it's exciting to come across a band that remembers first and foremost that music is supposed to be entertaining. Lately the local scene has been cranking out a few bands that take this idea to heart, and I believe that Whale Tooth has embraced this idea, and added their own unique twist to it. With their recent addition to the Hi Hat Recordings roster, I predict big things for Whale Tooth in 2009."
The Rivoli better get ready, because tonight VEDETTE, Canary Mine and Little Foot Long Foot are coming to party, and bringing all of their party people. Each act is super-pumped to bring you their best set EVER, and we can't wait to see you there! If you miss out, then you'll be one of those sucky "I missed out people", and someone will play a sad, farty old tuba song in your honour... Don't be like that. This one's definitely gonna be a party, and you won't believe what's in store for you. So c'mon by the Rivoli tonight! 334 Queen Street West (which is basically at Queen & Spadina.)
Hey there Whale Tooth, Thanks for being excellent human beings and terrific rehearsal space mates... Wanted to give you a quick head's up!
Vedette is playing tomorrow night (FRI OCT 10th) at the Silver Dollar Room (NW corner of College & Spadina). Joining us are Actors & Architects who are releasing a new CD as well as Nature Move Faster and Palace of the End! C'mon out! It's Thanksgiving long weekend and there is plenty to be thankful for... including live music in this great city... AND BOOZE!!! So are you comin' or what?
That was a great set at The Drake. Balancing soul and melody, energy and musicality, Whale Tooth is unique in its range of influences and songwriting skills. Purveyors of energy-driven theatrics, the live performance infuses an element of fun combined with the right amount of rock sheen. Music for deliriously danceable hearts.
Way to go kids! We knocked one out of the ball park! Sorry about my silliness in the van- thanks for understanding and for the ride. Here's to many more nights like that one!
hey guys, even though we are now in fierce competition on the 25th, maybe we can all do a sweaty late night beer... hope the show is killer, we'll be there in spirit
Great article in this issue of Now Magazine 'This might lead you to think Whale Tooth are yet another electro-pop band hoping for a dance club crossover hit. But in their case, any new wave references are more Elvis Costello than New Order. The five-piece excels at bouncy, major-key guitar pop crammed with hooks and just enough soul to stand out'
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