New Zealand's Gin Wigmore played a packed show at Toronto's Velvet Underground on April 8. I arrived for doors open to find a line up snaking down Queen Street West. The crowd quickly packed in around the stage as the venue filled. Obviously a lot of people were anxiously waiting for Gin's return since her visit to The Drake Underground 4 years ago.
The band is super-polished and the sound was awesome. The music varies a lot from straight-up rock, to R&B- and country-tinged. There are even glimpses of the classic melodies and delivery of the 60s pop that preceded the set. The common element is Gin's unique and amazing voice along with the raw and real emotion that comes through in the songs' melodies and lyrics. Her stage banter is also engaging and friendly.
It was a well-paced, dynamic and entertaining show. The audience delivered huge, enthusiastic cheers for each song and story Gin provided. I hope I get to see Gin and the band again before too long.
Have a listen to some of Gin's amazing music from her setlist:"Willing to Die"
"New Rush"
"24"
"Devil In Me"
"Dirty Love"
"Black Sheep"
"Written in the Water"
"Man Like That"
"I Will Love You"