I Heart the Music: Your Online Source for Live Music Reviews and Interviews in Toronto!

10 March, 2010 marked the kick off of CMW and iheartthemusic hit Lees Palace to see the Zeus, Jason Collett and Bahamas show. We were pretty pumped to find out that all three bands were playing as a collective backing up each other’s songs… it was definitely going to be interesting to see what they brought to each other’s music.  From having checked out Zeus’ wicked debut album Say Yes, loving Collet’s Rat a tat tat, and craving Bahamas’ sweet sound… our expectations were pretty high and they didn’t disappoint.

Jason Collett started the show with material from Rat a tat tat that gave way to a super intimate, vintage vibe.  His songs had a great folksy, Dylan-esque quality to them and looking around you could see that the sold-out audience was full of true fans that knew EVERY song and were so appreciative to be the recipients of Collett’s mellow, eccentric yet sexy melodies. We especially loved High Summer, Love is a Dirty Word and Cold, Blue Halo.

In the next number, the men of Zeus, who instantly brought an upbeat and classic rock n roll feel to the stage, joined Collett. Zeus have a wicked stage presence and are even better live—if possible.  They are really consummate performers as each band member can sing, and play every fucking instrument possible.  It was incredible to see them rotate from the guitar and vocals, then pick up the base, then shove a peer off the keyboard and just kill every song.  Their lineup of songs like “Kindergarten”, “How Does it Feel”, and their first single “Marching Through Your Head” show just how versatile and skilled they are at creating lush, soaring harmonies and layering sound.  We have to highlight the fact that Neil Quin from Zeus definitely pulled out a mandolin while backing a Collet number… duly noted and totally appreciated. 

Bahamas breezed his way in next and we must say he totally blew everyone away.  This was truly a breakout performance for Bahamas who is just as smooth and warm as everything that his name evokes. His brand of soulful, blues based love songs basically had everyone turned on by the end of the show.  It was a little reminiscent of the Black Keys… but Bahamas definitely carves out his own lyrical, rich and distinctive sound.  His song “Already Yours” was a big crowd pleaser.

We have to comment on how well the show was structured as each band took turns performing and backing each other. There was an incredible organic quality to this collaboration and to be honest, each band brought a distinct personal element that resulted in an unbelievable counterpoint. In essence, Zeus, Collett and Bahamas are at their best when they are playing together—it’s really something you have to see for yourself. Our verdict? Buy the albums, go see the show… FOR SURE.

reviewed by Victoria Kuketz

photography provided by Aaron Alleyne