The Districts made their way back up to Toronto this past Friday to play their first show here in nearly 5 years – and they did not disappoint. Playing to a sold out crowd at the Horseshoe Tavern, lead singer Rob Grote spoke about how happy they were to be touring again for their new album Great American Painting and also to finally get to play some songs from their previous album here for the first time as well. Between 2014 and 2017 the band had played Toronto seven times, so this 5 year stretch had certainly built up some anticipation for their return.
With long delayed concerts finally happening more consistently around Toronto, one thing that has been nice to see is that it’s not only the fans that are thrilled to be back in these venues – singing and dancing along to songs they love – but the bands are all so grateful to be back on the road, doing their thing. Playing a mix of songs from all 5 of their albums, the four piece act from Philadelphia made the most of their time on stage, including pulling the lead singer from one of their opening acts – Francis of Delerium – up on stage for a song towards the end of the set. The Indie-Garage Rock vibe was strong, with popular songs “4th & Roebling”, “Cheap Regrets” and newest single “White Devil” really getting the crowd into it. Something in the way all three guitars contribute to the songs, each taking the lead at different times gives the impression of a song that is sprawling yet succinct at the same time. It all culminated in an incredible encore performance of “Young Blood” that clocked in at nearly 9 minutes of pure rock.
All in all, it was a welcome return for a band who continues to impress with each new album they release. I’m certain Toronto will welcome them back again in the future – hopefully much sooner than another 5 years from now!
-Kyle Cadogan