Summer is the best time to check out new bands: there always seems to be a show happening just around the corner. June is full of touring bands from all over the world at your favourite local venues. If you’re unsure of who to go see this month, no worries – we’ve compiled a top-ten must-see list.
All shows have been selected by Indie88 staff for this sponsored feature.
TEENAGE HEAD
June 2 | The Horseshoe Tavern | Tickets
Longtime Hamilton rockers are touring again. If you’re looking for a classic punk band who’s albums have stood the test of time, Teenage Head is for you.
THE WONDER YEARS
June 6 | Phoenix Concert Theatre | Tickets
It’s been two years since they last came to Toronto, but each time they do, The Wonder Years brings an amazing energy. With their signature vocals and high powered pop-punk, you’re sure to have a great time at this show, especially with friends.
THE FRONT BOTTOMS
June 8 | The Danforth Music Hall | Tickets – SOLD OUT
If emo music is more your thing, then you might want to check out The Front Bottoms. Currently, the band mostly known for raw lyrics and punchy vocals, which has granted them a devout following.
ODONIS ODONIS
June 8 | Lee’s Palace | Tickets
This Toronto band first came onto the scene in 2010. They take influences from classic bands like Pixies and The Cure. If you’re looking for a group that sounds familiar but with their own unique twist, check out Odonis Odonis.
HOP ALONG
June 8 | The Horseshoe Tavern | Tickets – SOLD OUT
“Bark Your Head Off, Dog,” is Hop Along’s most dynamic yet. It combines different sounds of grunge, power-pop, folk, and punk, all in one. No wonder this show is sold out, it’s bound to be a good one.
BLACK PISTOL FIRE
June 15 | Phoenix Concert Theatre | Tickets
This band is for anyone who likes a combination of Southern rock and garage punk. Black Pistol Fire doesn’t stay in one genre, and it’s definitely given them a signature sound. One dollar from each ticket sold on their tour will be donated to the Humboldt Broncos. Even Canadian punk rockers are nice.
OKKERVIL RIVER
June 14 | The Horseshoe Tavern | Tickets – SOLD OUT
This folk-rock band recently released their newest album, “In the Rainbow Rain,” and was met with positive reviews. The band has more of a laid-back sound, with vocals and an acoustic guitar often being the star of their live performances.
JUNGLE
June 15 | Danforth Music Hall | Tickets
London-based electric-soul group Jungle has a reputation for amazing live performances. They often incorporate tropical percussion and psychedelic noises. The band has one self-titled album, released in 2014, but has put out two new singles this year.
WE ARE SCIENTISTS
June 18 | The Horseshoe Tavern | Tickets
We Are Scientists formed because the founding members were fans of stand-up comedy. This can be seen in all their live performances, where they’ve become widely known for incorporating lots of comedic banter. The band also cites Fleetwood Mac and David Bowie as their performing influences.
SERPENTWITHFEET
June 29 | The Drake Hotel | Tickets – SOLD OUT
Serpentwithfeet’s music combines spirituality, electronic beats, and avant-garde performance art. His debut album, Soil will be released on June 8. His previous EP, Blisters, was met with highly positive reviews.
