Gilmer Ditch was up first. Just about everyone in the band is a familiar face from other local 1970s-oriented rock combos. Dave Martindale, who sparked the band's formation, has been in The Double Pumpers, Ukrainia and The Magnificent Butchers, where he's shared stages with bandmates Paul Granger (also of Tokyosexwhale), singer Ryan Kerr (also of the Phantom Shifters) and guitarist Tony Iobbi. Only bassist Danny Barber is unknown to me. As you'd expect this is a very hard-hitting combo, and their concluding tune was a mighty space-rock knockout. They can also slow down and keep things groovy. A very potent combination.
Gilmer Ditch at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
Gilmer Ditch at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
The Mercy Now are no strangers to Ottawa, having played here a few times since a curfew-shortened set in February 2009 at Zaphod's. For those with short memories, it's the no-longer-new band of Shikasta's Russell Fernandes, with which it shares much sonically. Also on board are David Viva and a couple of White Van Speaker Scam vets. Or at least that's the usual lineup. Lee Rogers is recovering from some medical rearrangement of his innards so Derek Downham (By Divine Right, The Beauties and a million other combos) sat in.
The Mercy Now at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
The Mercy Now at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
Klovenhoofs finished things off with a well-lubricated set of ear-drum pummeling metal-punk. Davey wore his snazzy new Mother's Children embroidered jacket for the occasion. Their set was not long, but was as usual capable of removing the top layer of skin.
Klovenhoofs at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
Klovenhoofs at the Dominion Tavern, January 22, 2011
Well worth the frozen knees.
- Show reminder: Greber, Biipiigwan and Mekhaya are at Cafe Dekcuf; The Pop Cats pop into the Rainbow.
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