There was something in the air at Winnipeg's Park Theatre, on Sunday, January 30, 2011. Enjoy Your Pumas was releasing its new album, titled "Commonality." The event had drawn a sold-out crowd who was there to support three of the most talented independent bands in the province − and maybe in Canada.
The evening started with Robbed in Tuxedo, an energetic pop/rock/zouk quintet consisting of Lana Hastings, Luke Janzen, Matthew Rajfur, Tyson Monk and Faye Klassen. Led by Hastings' commanding voice, the group lit up the stage from the first note to the last. The performance was undeniably polished and enjoyable. And, most importantly, the band's happiness to be part of the event was infectious.
Then, it was Royal Canoe's turn to wow the crowd. Armed with electrifying tunes mixing guitars, effects pedals, drums, basses, tambourines, shakers and keyboards, Matt Peters, Bucky Driedger, Matt Schellenberg, Jeff Bruce and Joey Penner delivered a unique performance that left us all wanting for more.
Rosie Blais stepped on stage and took a couple of deep breaths. Her nervous smile disappeared as soon as Enjoy Your Pumas unleashed its inner beast. For more than an hour, the band led the crowd into a whirlwind of emotional, powerful and ethereal music − heightened by an excellent light show. As always, Blais' signature voice and theatrical performance were absolutely mesmerizing.
"We have never seen so many people come to our concerts before," said the lead singer at the end of the first song. "Thank you so very much!" The greatest quality of Enjoy Your Pumas? Its modesty. Despite being on the verge of an incredible career, its members do not take their talent for granted. They just want to have fun together. And that may explain why their music is so hauntingly entertaining...
Enjoy Your Puma consists of Rosie Blais, Josh Benoit, Mark Gomez, Luke Jansen and Zach Allard. Stay tuned for my review of "Commonality"!
--------------------------
Do you like this article? Leave a comment and/or share it. You can also subscribe – by clicking the "subscribe" button above – to get alerts every time Cendrine Marrouat publishes a new article.
---------------------------
Cendrine Marrouat is a freelance writer/reviewer, blogger, published author and translator living in Canada. Official Website: http://www.cendrinemarrouat.com
Comments
I honestly thought Royal Canoe stole the show, those guys are unbelievably talented.
I agree with the talent Royal Canoe put out there. Overall, the entire gig was phenomenal. And as Rosie mentioned, it was hard to compete. However, I think each band had a different style...
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!