Review
I have always been told that Braids are a band that you have to see live to fully understand. The Montreal quartet’s debut album, Native Speaker, flows through seven playful, atmospheric songs, topped by the otherworldly voice of lead singer Raphaelle Standel-Preston. It was shortlisted for the 2011 Polaris Music Prize, cementing its critical acclaim. Nonetheless, I have to agree that seeing this group of best friends perform live is the only way to fully understand their musical maturity and intensity.
On October 14, Braids brought their live show for a sold-out gig to the Horseshoe Tavern. The most striking part of their sound is the way they combine their voices and use them more like instruments; and not just singer Standel-Preston, but all members. Wordless vocal harmonies add to the delicately orchestrated instrumental layers. As they play, the breaks between songs blur, giving the impression of a one hour-long song, full of emotional peaks and haunting, calm moments.
Braids may be one of the most exciting bands in Canada at the moment, but they are endearingly humble about their success. At the Polaris Prize gala, Standel-Preston gave a wide-eyed thank you, sharing that “[they] almost dropped to the floor when [they] found out [they] were short-listed”. At the Horseshoe, drummer Austin Tufts and guitarist/bassist Taylor Smith mixed with the crowd to enjoy the theatrics of opening band Born Gold. After their own set, Raphaelle thanked the audience profusely for coming, stating that they have been playing in Toronto for a long time.
The night ended with “Native Speaker”, the title track from their album, intended to send us off to sleep. Or to do…other things--as keyboardist Katie Lee pointed out--it was a Friday night. For me at least, all I could do afterwards was listen to Native Speaker on repeat.
Written by Elena Gritzan
Sure enough the album is in my emusic folder. I can't honestly say I've fully listened to it until now. Perhaps some credits needed to be used. It reminds me - or to be more honest; makes me want to listen to - Efterklang. I've only had the chance to see them once in a room a bit smaller than the Horsehoe, you should certainly catch them if they come your way. Oddly, the most exciting Canadian band down here at the moment is Rural Alberta Advantage.
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