As I arrived close to the Olympia Theatre, fireworks erupted in the streets, which I could only imagine was to herald my arrival. While Montreal was undergoing flooding, we were flooded with memories as we witnessed an evening of shoe gazing entertainment. This genre is very much as relevant today as it was twenty eight years ago.
The evening started with Japanese Breakfast which got us in the mood. I spoke to Michelle Zauner after the show and although this was their fourth show with Slowdive, the Olympia Theatre was the biggest venue to date for them. Normally, they play Bar Le Ritz, which they will again play on July 4th, 2017. Michelle enjoyed the bigger room and the crowd appreciated their efforts. At one point, between songs, the PA was playing dance music, which brought some levity to their atmospheric set.
I had quickly listened to the beginning of one song on the way over, but after seeing them live, I have to admit that the snippet I heard did not do them justice. They were tight, entertaining and definitely worth checking out. Look out for their new Album this summer.
They ended their set with what Michelle said was a song about falling in love with a robot, entitled “Machinist”.
Slowdive made their entrance to a packed Olympia. Rachel Goswell was looking elegant in a flowing black dress while the rest of the boys went for a more relaxed look. They opened it up with “Slomo” off their latest release, 22 years in the making.
Tonight, the crowd would both hear old and new tracks from this band from Reading England.
I suggest they have neck massages in the back of the room as heads were bobbing all night and some might be sore tomorrow.
“Star Roving” was a highlight for me, with over 2 million plays on Spotify, I’m sure it was for others as well.
A couple came from Fredericton, New Brunswick came to see the band, among other Montreal activities. They marvelled at the beauty of this theatre which does have character with the lights down low.
Throughout the night, fans recognized and applauded at the beginning of familiar songs. It’s clear the band had the crowd under their spell, and they enjoyed every minute of it.
“Golden Hair” was the last song of their set which left us all wanting for more.
The band returned for a 3 song encore which included “Slowdive”, “No Longer Making Time” and “40 Days” to end the evening.
It was an evening of old and new memories that had us all appreciating the return of this band that was quiet for far too long.
Setlist
Slomo
Catch the Breeze
Crazy for You
Star Roving
Machine Gun
Souvlaki Space Station
Avalyn
When the Sun Hits
Alison
Sugar for the Pill
She Calls
Golden Hair (Syd Barrett cover)
Encore
Slowdive
No Longer Making Time
40 Days
Review & Photos– 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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