Last Night's Gig: John K. Samson at Hafenkneipe

This almost didn't happen. I am so glad it did though, because it was easily one of the top 3 concerts I've ever attended. It was simply stupendous.

I had convinced a couple of co-workers to come and see the best Canadian lyricist in the business today with me and we decided that we would meet at the venue at 7:30 when the doors open to get tickets. The venue website said there were 50 left on Monday, but I guess they updated it prior to the show and when we arrived they told us that it was sold-out. Luckily I waited around out front and was able to buy a ticket from someone (awkwardly paying more than they wanted for it...whoops) and then Valerie managed to talk Guillermo and herself into the show as well. So it all worked out for the best.

Die Hafenkneipe was a very cool spot. Tiny, very initmate venue with a stage at the front and probably no more than 80 people that could fit inside. The decor was maritime themed including seasgulls hanging from the ceiling and portholes on the walls which added to the ambiance. The opening act was alright (although the kazoo playing left a little to be desired). John hit the stage at around 8:30, and it was just him and his guitar. I could tell it was going to be a sweet show as he opened with One Great City and then hit a bunch of amazing acoustic version of Weakerthans and I think, Propoghandi songs including A Plea from a Cat Named Virtute, Construction Site, Utilities (my personal favourite), Night Windows as well as playing his own solo stuff from his new record City Route 85. I love how his songs evoke such great Canadian imagery and feelings. I was just soaking it all up.

I also managed to start a new tradition of sorts for myself. As I am very supportive of the Canadian independent music scene, I definitely plan on attending as many shows as possible of those artists when they hit Switzerland. I also happen to have a Canadian flag on my wall and I took it to the concert and then chatted with John (who didn't mind the Movember moustache) and had him sign the flag after his set. So my scheme will be to have all of the Canadian bands that play Switzerland sign the flag after their shows. We'll see how many I can accumulate while I am here.

If you get the chance to see John play live (either with the Weakerthans or acoustically) jump at it. You'll have a great time.