It’s looking to be a good year for concerts in Toronto, and here are 10 shows to prove it. And yes, The Black Keys will be here on March 14, and yes, you should go. Our other good bets below.
Cass McCombs, The Garrison, Jan. 27
This talented American singer/songwriter is trying his best to fly under the radar, but he’s too good to stay hidden for long. Seeing him in an intimate setting will make for a memorable evening. His song “County Line” could be considered one of the finest of 2011.
The Kills, Kool Haus, Feb. 7
The powerful twosome of Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince (pictured above) released a third album, Blood Pressures, last fall. Great album, killer, ahem, live show.
City and Colour, Massey Hall, Feb. 10 and 11
In his first big gig since ditching that band Alexisonfire, Dallas Green checks into the venerable Massey Hall. It’s the ideal venue for this Torontonian’s haunting songs.
Kathleen Edwards, Phoenix Concert Theatre, Feb. 11
The Toronto-based singer/songwriter is back with a stunning new album, Voyageur, also featuring another dude you may have heard of: Justin Vernon. Already a gifted performer, this album could rocket Edwards to fame. Plus, she’s playing with guest Hannah Georgas. Sweet.
The Barr Brothers, The Great Hall, March 1
Full of bluesy rock goodness that will make your head spin, this Montreal outfit has all the quirkiness of your favourite indie band combined with solid rock chops. They’re touring in support of their eponymous debut album from Secret City Records.
Grimes, Horseshoe Tavern, Mar. 19
Hot and buzzy Grimes, a.k.a Montreal’s Claire Boucher, is funky and fun with a whole audio-visual component that is sure to make for a compelling and groovy evening.
The Ting Tings, Phoenix Concert Theatre, April 6
They’re just cool, man, do it for the fun. This English musical duo are out to prove they weren’t a flash-in-the-2009-pan. Their long-overdue second album, Sounds from Nowheresville, is scheduled for a March release.
Yukon Blonde, Lee’s Palace, April 12 and 13
Another buzz band that is on the cusp of a major breakthrough, this solid rock outfit has a cool, earthy vibe. They’re touring in support of their full-length album slated for a spring 2012 release.
Kaiser Chiefs, Phoenix Concert Theatre, April 16, 17
Neo-new wave U.K. outfit Kaiser Chiefs can kick out some classic, decidedly jam-esque, uh, jams, that are full of energy. The small venue is a serious treat.
Ani DiFranco, Winter Garden Theatre, April 21
An incredible performer: passionate, talented and she doesn’t come around much anymore, so go. She’ll be touring in support of her soon-to-be-released album ¿Which Side Are You On?, her first studio album in more than three years.