Monowhales (w/ Fxrrvst, Bon Villan) at The Rivoli (Toronto, ON) on November 17, 2017 [Photos & Show Review]

The Rivoli was fired up for a night of some of Toronto’s local up-and-coming pop sensations. I met the Monowhales on the “Ontario150” tour this past summer and they were an incredibly talented group of individuals. Over the summer they dropped a video directed by Philip Kluba for their neon-soaked single “Take It Back” and now, they’re currently in the middle of creating a new album and have finished a whirlwind tour. So, when the group invited PureGrainAudio to their recent show, we had to accept.

The place was packed from minute one. Although we missed opening act Tilsen, we heard great things!

It was Bon Villian, however, taking the stage with their three-piece synth vibe, they didn’t have the strongest start at first but by the end of their set I found my self nodding along. With barely any elbow room, it was a stark contrast from what I experienced the week before when I went to see their Monday night comedy show hosted by comedian Clifford Myers.

This time around it was like sardines in a can, and people were also genuinely stoked for the next act Fxrrvst. I have never heard of this group. but the people behind me were rabid for this four-piece. I was totally won over by this act and I enjoyed their impromptu Tree Stage Lights.

Before long the Monowhales would take the stage, and take the stage they did. Performing some top tracks “Make A Name For Myself”, “Take It Back” and my personal favourite “White Walls”, 2018 should be a huge year for this incredible Canadian group. I’m looking forward to what they’re going to show us.