Most of the invitations that I get in my DMs are from psychics advising me that I was chosen for a special reading or from creepy old guys who want to be my sugar daddy. But sometimes I get lucky.
When Apacalda invited me to her album release show for There’s a Shadow in My Room and It Isn’t Mine at Bar L’Esco, I was deeply touched. I had listened to the album for our interview and couldn’t wait to see how she would execute those dark and sultry songs on a live stage.
It was my first time seeing Montreal-based indie/folk trio Ruby Creek (Riley, Ben, and Nova). I really enjoyed their harmonies and eerily soothing sound. I love the banjo on “Forget Me Not,” their latest single.
The vibe at L’Esco was relaxed with a little bit of nervous excitement. Like on a first date when you’re not sure if the person likes you, but you both feel that sexual tension.
When Apacalda emerged from the smoky darkness like a mythical goddess dressed in silken, glittering ivory, we all screamed in delight. I loved the cream-coloured backdrop, and that all the band was dressed in white as well. She opened with “Hindsight,” and then went straight to my favourite track on the album, “Jealous.” I actually got up and started dancing, as did everyone else in the packed and steaming sold-out club.
Apacalda mischievously admitted that the song was about her ex, who happened to be doing the sound that night. Samwoy did an incredible job, as he did mixing the album. Her bandmates were Raphaël Bédard de Vllca on bass and Caleb Lebel on drums. Mishka Stein, who produced the album, played bass for three songs. Apacalda played guitar, and when she didn’t, she danced.
As much as I enjoyed listening to the album, I enjoyed hearing and seeing the live performance even more. Maybe it was because the artists who worked on the album were present. Or maybe it was because Apacalda brought each song to life. She was telling her stories in her own voice, and we were feeling it all and giving it back. Especially during “Dead Weight,” when the audience sang along and Apacalda’s sapphire eyes twinkled with joy.
“Lie 4 U” was my highlight of the night. Glistening with sweat, she boldly took off her skirt and stood at the edge of the stage in her fishnet stockings and shorts, and gyrated her hips with wild abandon. It was glorious.
Kandle Osborne and Stefanie Parnell joined in on the beautifully haunting “Fever Dream.” Their ethereal harmonies added a beautiful layer of depth to the song. There was so much love in their vocals, but there was even more radiating from their eyes.
Apacalda is a magnetic performer who brings you on a magical journey. Luring you in with her soft, seductive vocals, and then stabbing you with her jagged lyrics.
It was one of those shows where I remember when it started, but when it was over, I could only recall fragmented bits like flashbacks. Was I drugged? Did Apacalda hypnotize me?
After the show, I went to the green room to say bye to some of the performers, and when I saw Apacalda up close, I couldn’t find the right words. So I awkwardly blurted out, “I’m scared of you,” to which she laughed and then said, “I’m scared of you,” and we hugged.
Review – Annette Aghazarian
Photos – Steve Gerrard
