After what seemed like a long wait for their return, The Slackers were finally back in town. Tonight, it was almost exactly two years to the date since they were last on the Cafe Campus Stage. Taking place on a Sunday, it didn’t seem to deter people from coming out to enjoy an evening of legendary ska music.
Bringing some New York state natives on the Canadian part of the tour with them. Cleverly named, Some Ska Band were the openers for this evening. Self-described as scrappy musicians with a dream, looks like they’ve achieved one that’s pretty high on the list.
As the band filled the stage, singer Tricia Lynn Gonzales went straight into some crowd work, making sure people were engaged. Singing some sweet melodies over some familiar two-tone beats, people were on their feet getting properly warmed up.
Diving into some serious subject matter about our robot overlords taking over and narcissists, both an increasing plague of the modern world. I could hear the obvious influences, such as The Selecter and The Specials. A very entertaining set with a variety of songs, they would certainly be a perfect addition to our ska festival in the autumn.
When The Slackers visit Montreal, it turns into a ska reunion. Whether it’s an appearance at the Montreal Ska Festival or just a random visit because they adore our city, their concerts always bring about a certain kind of indescribable energy.
With the flexibility of having so many friends in town and so many songs stylistically to choose from. The fans often guide the direction in which the night flows. Whether it’s a sad breakup tune to a politically charged punk-influenced song, they’ve got all musical avenues covered. Tonight was no different as singer Vic Ruggiero asked whether we’d like to hear some sad or happier songs to get the mood right.
The true sound and character of New York ska are represented by Ruggeiro’s thick accent, and dry wit highlighted by his clever songwriting abilities. The ease of which jumps into a story or anecdote. Which seamlessly turns into a whole new version of the song you love. It’s a telltale sign of great musicianship. You won’t be getting the same performance twice – ever. More than just a singer showing off his expert fingerwork on the keys, he’s a genuine person, a storyteller backed up by a group of his closest friends.
Reminiscing of exciting times of the earlier shows played at long-defunct Montreal venues. Unlucky tales of getting stuck at the border the night they were supposed to open for the legendary Hepcat here. With the sudden news of the passing of Hepcat’s singer Greg Lee last month, we were still reeling from his loss. Honouring him with a cover of “Dance Wid’ Me” and a medley of tunes, we did just that: danced in his memory. Rest in Power, Greg.
Doing double duty, trumpet player Glen Pine sang a few of his songs ‘Cupid’ and ‘Working Overtime’. With some slower, powerful moments where they decided to just rely on guitar and Disco Dave’s sultry sax sounds. With almost too many great songs to name on this setlist, this was by far my favourite show.
We got a nice treat for being a good audience with The Slacker’s version of Countryman Fiddle by The Aggrolites. As the original rhythm section Marcus Geard and Ara Babajin were absent for this part of the tour. Bassist Jeff Roffredo of the Aggrolites joined the fun as a perfect stand-in with Jimmy Boom on drums. Keeping the rocking pace of the night with some tasty guitar sounds by Agent Jay Nugent.
If there was no curfew for the venue, indeed, they would have just continued playing through the whole night. I’ve witnessed it on many occasions when seeing Ruggiero play his solo sets. They are truly the band that just keeps on giving musically.
Sadly, all good things must come to an end. After a thirty-minute encore, which brought members of the opening band on for a sing-off, the venue turned on the bubble machines to end things in the most magical of ways. After being taken on a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions each time I see them, I’m hoping for a shorter wait for the next return. Please don’t slack on this one, guys.
Review – Sam Morris
Photos – Kieron Yates
