Every year we ask our talented contributors to send us their thoughts on the past twelve months. These surveys appear untouched, and the only instruction was to answer the question however they see fit. –Dakota Arsenault, Music Editor
How long have you been with Live in Limbo and what do you do for the site?
It feels like I’ve been pals with the LiL crew for forever!
What were your three favourite albums of 2017?
Leif Vollebekk – Twin Solitude
Stella Donnelly – Thrush Metal
Kendrick Lamar – Damn.
What was the most underrated album of 2017?
There was a ton of amazing music that was released this year that I wish reached more ears.
What was your favourite Canadian album of 2017?
I was a big fan of Shawn William Clarke’s Topaz, Rory Taillon’s Only Whispers and Midnight Vesta’s Seconds.
What were your three favourite songs of 2017?
- Midnight Vesta from Seconds – “Take Me Back”
- Lydia Persaud from Low Light – “Low Light”
- Caren from Caren – “Teach Me”
How many concerts and/or festivals did you go to in 2017?
I played 102 shows from coast to coast as an artist.
As an audience member I attended 18 concerts.
What were your three favourite concerts of the year?
3 Favourite Shows I Watched:
Andy Shauf at Massey Hall (Toronto)
Leif Vollebekk at The Mod Club (Toronto)
The Lumineers & Kaleo at The Bell Centre (Montreal)
3 Favourite Shows I Played:
The Dakota Tavern with Midnight Vesta (Toronto)
Gillian Nicola’s “Singer-Songwriters in the Round” series at The Painted Lady (Toronto)
The Attic (Moncton)
What was your favourite festival you attended of the year?
I loved playing The Fire & Water Music Festival in Lac du Bonnet, MB & The Living Roots Music Festival in Fredericton, NB.
What festival had the best lineup (regardless if you attended or not)?
Canadian Women Working in Music recently published a report card that highlighted gender disparities of women in music represented at festivals. I’m so stoked to see all of the Canadian festivals listed that received an A or B grade. Check the link here to see how festivals in your area did.
What/who was the biggest musical disappointment (live or album) for you?
A few, none of which I think I should mention. 😉
What band did you see live for the first time that really impressed you?
The Middle Coast. They performed at The Fire and Water Music Festival and we played their song “Paycheck” in our tour van for weeks (literally).
What was your favourite new musical discovery of 2017?
I was late to the party on this one, but I have recently REALLY been getting into Matthew and the Atlas. He’s got an unplugged version of his album “Temple” that’s been getting a lot of play at my house.
Who were you disappointed to miss seeing live this year?
Feist.
Who should we be looking out for in 2018?
More amazing Donovan Woods tweets.
Who’s going to be headlining (or at least playing) all the 2018 festivals?
If I was placing bets, I’d put my money on William Prince and Murder, Murder, especially in the Canadian folk festival scene.
What was your favourite review, photo set or interview you did for LiL this year?
Leif Vollebekk at the Mod Club
This year the Horseshoe Tavern celebrated its 70th birthday, do you have a fond memory or favourite all time show from the club?
MONOWHALES threw one hell of a show there. Pool noodles and confetti EVERYWHERE!
In your opinion, what was the biggest music story?
I think the #metoo movement brought to light some very serious issues regarding sexual abuse in the music & entertainment industry at large. It also brought to light some very intense stories about musicians and industry members in our own communities and spaces.
Is there anything else you want to say about 2017 or predict about 2018?
Let’s hope for a great year!
