The Simcoe Scene

Originally posted on Barrietoday.com as part of the Scene Setter series (#50 - Aug 13, 2023). Like a pulse, music changes its beat based on what is being faced head-on in the moment in a uniquely visceral and genuine way. Music created in earnest, from a place of honesty, rings true in the ears of listeners who share a song’s feeling but perhaps aren’t able to vocalize it. But as everyone knows, change can be difficult and some feelings are even more difficult to describe.  A band that is using their gifts and skills of creating music who are embracing that change, following their pulses, and navigating into darker waters is Playfight. Playfight started as a collaboration between John Saffrey (guitarist, writer, producer) and Stewart Drake (vocalist, lyricist, graphic designer) who met through an online pop punk group and quickly began sharing ideas remotely during the pandemic. The band emerged in 2021 with catchy lyrics, riff-heavy arrangements, and upbeat songs that harkened bac...

Originally posted on Barrietoday.com as part of the Scene Setter series (#41 - Aug 9, 2023). All the gear, promotion, and studio time means absolutely nothing without authenticity. A flash in the pan is no small feat but to bring the heat consistently and relentlessly, that is the sign of genuine artistry.  The sheer amount of carbon-copy musical acts can be stifling but the freshest breath of air comes in the form of the all-female band The Anti-Queens. The Anti-Queens quickly and rightfully gained the reputation of being one of Toronto’s most exciting live acts over the last decade. Their incomparable work ethic and their blend of fury and fun has taken them across North America and Europe to share their genuinity with thousands of concert-goers. From hometown bars to international festivals, The Anti-Queens deliver…Every. Single. Time. Before they hit Barrie later this month, I had the opportunity to ask lead guitar and Vocalist Valerie Knox a few questions.   Richard:...