Dredg In Montreal

It was at times a crappy Sunday in Montreal and at other times really nice. One of my favorite bands was in town last night. Dredg. Relatively unknown in Montreal and by the general public, but that didn't stop the few hundred at the Foufounes Electriques from singing along and rocking out. What appeals to me about Dredg is that thier music sets a unique atmosphere, has a strong message, with intelligent lyrics. None of your run of the mill themes here. During the months leading up to the albums release, fans were treated to some very cool and clever video's, providing a glimpse of life in the studio. Demonstrating all the effort and creativity that went into making the Pariah, the Parrot, the Delusion. "Inspired from a Salmon Rushdie essay entitled, A Letter to the 6 Billionth Citizen." according to bassist Drew Roulette.

The Foufs provides a very intimate setting, Gavin commented that he'd never been so close to a drum kit before. He was practically sitting on the kick drum. None the less, his vocal performance and stage presence were stellar. Always intriguing to watch him perform. The lap steel guitar now a Dredg staple, made it through the whole show until Gavin smashed it with a drum stick during a climatic ending rendering the string useless. Speaking of drums it's always inspiring seeing Dino beat that drum kit. Sometimes I wonder if the kit will make it to the end of the show. Mark on guitar is really just something to watch, this guy must have had 2 shoulder replacement surgeries. I've never seen such intensity, and energy. The sounds and tones he creates just captivate you. They hug you and make you feel nice and cozy. Something that must be seen & heard to be understood. Bassist Drew is always the solid backbone of the band, keeping it low and super melodic, and his keyboard technique includes literally playing with his face, while keeping the bass notes pumping.

Seriously if you're looking for something fresh and original you owe it to yourself to check out Dredg.