Sleigh Bells at The Phoenix – November 13, 2013

Photography by Ray Williams

I wish I was twenty years younger for last night’s Sleigh Bells gig at the Phoenix in Toronto.  On record, the Brooklyn duo are the best parts of Public Enemy, Slayer and Curve all wrapped into one package and recorded for maximum effect.

Alexis Krauss and Derek Miller have been releasing quick blasts of bombastic pop since their 2010 debut, Treats.  Each album blasts through like a punch to the face, the pain soothed by Alexis’ cooing vocals.  But they sound like a wild party and I have eagerly awaited the opportunity to see them live since the debut.

Sleigh Bells recently released their third album Bitter Rivals which they brought to their show in Toronto.  The band have beefed up their live experience with a drummer and an additional guitarist.

Alexis addressed the elephant in the room early – no, not the Ford-mania but the cordoned-off street, heavy police presence and reports of a man shot dead within earshot of the venue.  Other than this, Sleigh Bells brought the party and the surprisingly sparse crowd let loose.

Opening with “Minnie” from the new album, the band came out with guns-a-blazin’ with a light show as bombastic as the songs.  The extra hands on stage also lent to meatier versions of standout tracks “Comeback Kid”, “Riot Rhythm” and “Infinity Guitars”.

While Krauss may look like someone you wouldn’t want to run into in a dark alley, she’s more likely to throw you over her shoulder and take you to a party.  Clearly in her element on stage, she looked to have as much fun as all the sweaty bodies in the front third of the room.  This enthusiasm accompanied by great sound, visuals and full-throttle songs made this gig a blast.  It’s a shame the venue wasn’t packed.

About half the set was from Bitter Rivals and stood up nicely to the older songs, evenly divided between the debut and the sophomore album, Reign of Terror.  Thankfully they stayed away from the ballads, although some may lament the absence of “Rill Rill”, but the show was so well paced, I just didn’t want it to end.

Thanks to Embrace Presents for media access.