The smell of bro-mance was in the air at the Commodore Ballroom, Vancouver, last night. I’d been following this competition since its inception in 2009, but never thought I’d trek my way from the mountains to see the Finale Concert after a major snowstorm. The Matinée, Current Swell and The Boom Booms were well worth the ride.
The bands had already been awarded $50,000 towards the development of their careers. So knowing full well no one would go home a loser, this was an awesome party. At the end of the night, we’d find out who would take away the first prize of $100,500.
The Matinée Get The Show Started
The Matinée opened the show. Formed in 2007, this band has been well established having performed extensively at festivals, schools, house shows and bars. The roots-rock feel is easy, fun and free. Matt Layzell, The Matinée’s front man has a warm and friendly presence that could only make you smile. The song “The Road” and “Sweetwater” off their latest EP really sparked up the night with the first glimpses of moves on the dance floor.
In the sold-out crowd, family, friends, fans and music-enthusiasts came together in a sort of love-fest as the night went on, largely attributed to the genuinely personable performances from all the artists on stage. Not only were they incredibly talented, the tunes were sing-able, dance-able and each band was able to successfully connect with the audience.
Current Swell was next up. They’ve come a long way since the band’s debut in 2005. These boys from Victoria have developed a unique west coast sound that is a mix of roots and blues with a groovy swagger. They played mostly songs off their latest album “Long Time Ago” which showcased their outstanding musicianship and songwriting, with performance ease. Like all three bands, their experience as veteran performers really shined.
The Boom Booms Go Out With A Bang
The 6-piece band The Boom Booms closed the show with a high-octane performance. They had the Commodore dance floor jumping, inspiring a couple body-surfers in the latter part of the set. Their music, upbeat and soulful with reggae and latin flavours, was a fitting night-cap to an already incredible night of live music. The highlight for the 45-minute set was the song “You Know” where the Boom Booms show a natural ability to connect with an audience as if everyone was at a house party with all of their closest friends.
Just past midnight the winner was revealed. Third place was awarded to a well-deserved The Matinée. Second place taking $75,000 went to the The Boom Booms, an obvious crowd favourite. Current Swell took away $100,500 for their first place finish.
For 6 months new and emerging artists from all around BC have participated in The Peak Performance Project. For the Top 20, the process included performance showcases, songwriting challenges and even an intense weeklong Boot Camp, which focused on other aspects of the industry that would help them develop in media, marketing, business and public relations.
The future of each band didn’t hinge on this competition but has catapulted them to the next level in pursuing their dreams. Thank you to Music BC and The Peak for their ongoing commitment to the Peak Performance Project.
To follow the Top 3 bands visit their websites:
Maya Chang - Originally from Nepean, Ontario, Maya first ventured west to Victoria to study at the Canadian College of Performing Arts. Her training ...
