Montreal Prog Music Festival:FMPM

[zvinki]

Just thought that I would chime in with my impressions of this festival being hel this weekend. I attended the festival with my 18 year old son who has been developing into a big prog fan. On the bill for day 1 were Spaced Out, Knight Area and Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso. I can't say that I knew any of these bands but was intereseted in seeing Spaced Out since I heard a lot of people praising them.

First I wanted to say that the venue is great being a samll hall in the middle of a bustling downtown scene on St. Denisstreet. lots of restaurants and bars in the area to keep everyone happy.

Spaced Out (3:00 - 4:00)


Spaced Out is as much of Jazz as I want in my Rock. Although the musicians were exellent I had the same criticism as I have ith most Jazz: too much noodling. I've come to realize that music that i enjoy must have progression as in telling a story. Jazz, to my ears, seems to going around in circles with splashes of musical ideas. Tough for me to enjoy, especially upon hearing it the firt time.

I missed Knight Area since it was such a beautifulday and my son wanted to walk aroud downtown.

Banco Del Mutuo Soccorso (9:15 - 11:!5)

I admit to knowing little to nothing about this band although I had a vague idea what I would hear having listened to some samples the day of the concert. Having said that I was not prepared to be blown away by these guys. The band consists of 6 excellent musicians and an great charismatic pseudo-opera singer. Hearing the power and passion of his voice took me by surprise especially coming from someone who looks like a giant Ewok. The songs were long, mostly upbeat with great Italian-style melodies. They told a story that can only move you. The crowd was really into them and gave them a standing ovation after almost every song. I could tell that my son also enjoyed them since he asked to stay for the encore. Now I am wondering whether I should buy some of their CD's sine I am often seduced by the concert moment and find that the studio stuff lacks the magic (3 for example). I would appreciate any comments from my moon buds.

We are eally looking forward to Riverside today. I will give you my impressions later.