I was always intrigued by the pictures of shows at The Ritz of that colorful wall that surrounds the bands on stage that remind me of skinny Legos. When I found out that The Mattson 2, from California were visiting our city, through a common friend, I was really looking forward to hearing their Cali Surf Jazz at this 300-person venue. While I was there to see The Mattson 2, it was clear that the rest filled the venue to see Chaz Bundick (aka Toro Y Moi).
PDB stands for “Punks Don’t Bend”, but tonight, the punks were replaced by Jazz enthusiasts who came to see the collaboration of Chaz and The Mattson 2. While that Californian surf sound was present and brought this chill vibe to the room, the trio melded in seamless collaborate Jazz that had the crowd packed around the stage. The real show was at the back, where the dancing was infectious. I especially enjoyed the two guys who simply let loose and gave in to interpretive Jazz dancing. This duo, who aspire to getting their shoe gaze band going, tore up the dancefloor.
I felt a connection between the band and the crowd that soaked in all that warmth, after such a cold winter. Speaking with Jared Mattson after the show, they are really enjoying the tour, much of it Sold-Out, and visiting Montreal, if only for a brief stint. Directions to La Banquise was given, as Jared was very much looking forward to a Montreal Poutine. For the Mattson 2, this tour was giving them exposure to a whole new crowd, which was well worth it, although he craved to return to his new daughter he was proud to show pictures of.
I enjoyed the evening and I felt transported to California, remembering the vibe of the coast that I crave to revisit. I find myself listening to Star Stuff and enjoying the space surf jazz sound that filled Le Ritz that Wednesday night.
Review & Pictures – Randal Wark is a Professional Speaker and Business coach with a passion for live music. You can follow him on Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
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