January 27, 2010 21:01
Guns N’ Roses
JAN 28, AIR CANADA CENTRE, 40 BAY
Fifteen years after The Spaghetti Incident, Guns N’ Roses finally delivered the follow-up, Chinese Democracy. Sure, a few things had changed over the years, like the guitar chair, currently leaving DJ Ashba to fill Slash’s Nikes. But some things remain intact, like Axl Rose’s vitriolic vocals. In fact, they’ve arguably never sounded better. $39.50-$89.50. 8pm.
Penderecki Plus!
JAN 29, KOERNER HALL, 273 BLOOR W
In our utopia, Krzysztof Penderecki would be a household name. Instead, pieces like the Polish composer’s eerie “Threnody (to the Victims of Hiroshima)” are worshipped by arty folks like Radiohead, David Lynch and T.O.’s own Esprit Orchestra, who are bringing Penderecki in for a performance of his work, as well as an artist’s talk at 7:15pm. $43 adult, $32 senior, $15 under 30. 8pm.
Lioness
JAN 30, THE HORSESHOE, 368 QUEEN W
So, you’re sick of DJ nights full of 120bpm electro remixes of remixes? It might be time to get out to a live show, and Lioness is the antidote for what ails you. Fusing indie rock with disco house is what they do best, and they’re bound get even the laziest barfly out on the dance floor. With Everything All The Time. $8. 9pm.
James Blackshaw
JAN 31, DRAKE UNDERGROUND, 1150 QUEEN W
Who needs words when a guitar can do all the talking? Pitchfork-approved British guitarist James Blackshaw uses a twelve-string guitar to play deeply lush melodies that are as expressionistic and poignant as your favourite emo record. $11.50 advance, $13 door. 7:30pm.