Instrumental BandOld World Vulture throws convention out the window in an amazing show at Toronto’s Legendary Horseshoe Tavern this past Thursday night.
Formed in November of 2008, Toronto based band Old World Vulture appear to follow the standard band formula, except for one main component – there is no singer. It’s a concept that is slightly unfathomable in theory, but completely mind-blowing in practice. Playing to a relaxed crowd at the horseshoe, the Vulture’s unique brand of psychedelic and ambient rock music morphed and moulded the mood in the small venue.
When there are no vocals, a performance must become solely about the music. That idea may be daunting to some musicians, but it’s not Old World Vultures. It’s something one wouldn’t normally experience outside of a club style DJ event, but in this case, it’s a band, all playing real instruments, and playing them well. Bassist Anthony Perri is stoic and steady, keeping up the pounding rhythm with drummer Jamie Hunter, whose sticks fly too fast to be seen. Guitarist Mike Costanzo writhes to the riffs he creates and has definitely learned the art of the rock star pose. And keyboardist Devin Hughes warps and shapes sound with his synthesizers, even turning his own voice into music, sounding like nothing that could come from a human. The band played songs from their self titled and independently released EP (available for downloading on iTunes) as well as a couple of treats from their highly anticipated full length album, set to come out sometime this year. Finishing their set with a high speed drum solo surrounded by crazy cool feedback, Old World Vulture left the stage, and left their audience wanting more.
An Old World Vulture show is something that all music lovers should experience. They challenge traditional ideas and open the eyes and minds of those who cross their musical path. Keep up with this awesome Toronto band on their MySpace and check out some of their work on their YouTube channel, and definitely get yourself to their next show.
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