***NOUS ETIONS / ATSUKO CHIBA / SHAHMAN / BRAUER show review***

On March 28th, 2014 I was one of the few privileged individuals that knew about how killer this bill was. 2 bands were from Montreal and weren't well known in Toronto, but I expect that to change the second NOUS ETIONS or ATSUKO CHIBA book another musical spectacle. Let's run through the show in order, shall we?
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NOUS ETIONS was the highlight of the night for this reviewer. Not only will they be releasing their first LP on Zegema Beach Records, but they guys are amazing people and their music will catch the attention of fans of Sed Non Satiata, Titan and The Alaskan. These 5 guys blasted through 7 songs in a little under half an hour. The fact that they played for about 30 people (16 of which were in the other bands) made no difference as they absolutely owned the night. The band played ridiculously tight, especially considering it was the drummer's first show with the band! What!?!? Their LP has already been recorded and should be out this summer on a few different labels internationally. Get stoked.

1 - Leviathan

2 - Juste

3 - Je Me Souviens

4 - Les Algorithmes Du Malheur

Bandcamp

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ATSUKO CHIBA followed Nous Etions and blew away any expectations I had, except for The Mars Volta influence I heard on their bandcamp page. They had amazing stage (floor) presence and commanded the audience with their unique blend of building atmoshperic/epic rock (think Mogwai and Godspeed You! Black Emperor) meets The Mars Volta and occasional shouted 'In Casino Out'-era At The Drive In vocals. I would definitely see this band again and invite anyone who digs music, as it's very accessible.

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Bandcamp

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SHAHMAN
SHAHMAN was the closer and played the shortest set by far. What started out as a strange and haunting song that didn't really go anywhere, the 2-piece destroyed listeners with the remaining 10 minutes of their set. These guys end up sound like old Old Man Gloom, Mare and The Chariot but slower and less technical, with an emphasis on sludge.

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Bandcamp

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BRAUER
The opening band was BRAUER, which was a band I formed at preconception about before hearing. My unwanted inherent bias was quickly put to rest after a very enthusiastic band played some fun and interesting songs for about 20 minutes. I really don't have a basis for comparison, so check the videos.

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Bandcamp