The atmosphere at the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto on December 2, 2023, was electric as fans eagerly awaited The Trews to take the stage. But before the headliners graced us with their presence, the crowd was treated to a remarkable performance by the opening act, The Redhill Valleys.
As the crowd trickled into the venue, it was evident that many were unfamiliar with The Redhill Valleys. However, any doubts or reservations were swiftly dispelled as soon as they began their set. The energy and enthusiasm emanating from this talented group of musicians were infectious and captivating.
Despite performing to a relatively small audience at that moment, the band delivered a performance worthy of a much larger crowd. Their passion and skill resonated throughout the venue, leaving an indelible impression on everyone present.
The crowd appreciated every note played and every word sung by The Redhill Valleys. It was clear that their talent and stage presence had won over even those who had not previously heard of them. The cheers and applause echoed through the hall, acknowledging their exceptional performance.
The Redhill Valleys proved themselves to be more than just an opening act; they showcased their artistry in a way that left a lasting impact on both new listeners and seasoned concert-goers alike. Their ability to connect with the audience through their music ensured that they would not be forgotten anytime soon.
The Redhill Valleys, are a four-piece Americana Roots country-rock group hailing from Hamilton, Ontario.This talented ensemble consists of Chelsea McWilliams on Bass/Vocals, Tim Allard on Lead Guitar/Vocals, Danielle Beaudin on Guitar/Vocals, and Matt Soliveri on Drums. Their name itself pays tribute to their roots in Hamilton.
The energy was palpable as the crowd eagerly awaited the arrival of the headliners The Trews. With the venue now packed to capacity, fans were buzzing with excitement, ready to immerse themselves in a night of unforgettable music and pure rock ‘n’ roll.
As The Trews took to the stage, their presence commanded attention. The band wasted no time in launching into their set, captivating the audience from the very first note. Their infectious energy was contagious, spreading throughout the venue like wildfire.
The band delivered an electrifying performance, showcasing their iconic hits such as Tired of Waiting, Paranoid Freak, Not Ready to Go, and Highway of Heroes.
One of the standout moments of the evening was during their performance of Ishmael & Maggie. As the band played this song, they surprised everyone by venturing into the audience. This unexpected move created a special connection between the fans and the band, making it a truly memorable and intimate experience.
The Trews’ ability to engage with their audience on such a personal level is a testament to their passion for music and dedication to their fans. It’s moments like these that remind us why live concerts are so cherished – they create unique memories that cannot be replicated.
Exciting news also emerged during this concert as The Trews announced that they have co-written a new song with Brett Emmons and Jay Emmons from The Glorious Sons. The track called Bloody Light is set for release in the new year, adding further anticipation for what lies ahead. Singer Colin MacDonald quipped that if the crowd didn’t like the song to blame the Emmons brothers!
Another standout moment came when John Angus ventured into the back of the venue on the balcony, surrounded by fans as he performed a guitar solo that showcased his exceptional talent. As he played, his passion resonated throughout the venue, captivating every ear in attendance.
Meanwhile, the rest of the band members gathered around the drum set, creating a unified energy that reverberated through every note they played. Their tight-knit chemistry and undeniable talent were evident as they delivered one powerful song after another.
Special guest Bernadette Connors, joined the band on stage to perform Fairytale of NY. Her soulful vocals and emotive delivery resonated throughout the venue, creating a magical atmosphere.
The concert wouldn’t be complete without a marching band with Bag Pipers joining The Trews on stage to perform a cover of Paul McCartney’s song Mull Of Kintyre, and the AC/DC song It’s a Long Way to the Top (If you wanna Rock and Roll).
In conclusion, having witnessed The Trews perform numerous times, it is evident that their musicianship truly shines in a live setting. The energy and tightness of their performances are unparalleled, leaving the audience in awe. One aspect that stands out consistently is their impeccable harmonies, which add an extra layer of depth and emotion to their music. Their exceptional musicianship and ability to captivate an audience make them a must-see act for any music lover.
Special thanks to Embrace for the accreditation.
All images by Sue Sadzak Hebert. ©2023. Please do not copy or use without consent.
The Redhill Valleys
The Trews
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