The Canadian Music Fest line-up was announced last week and I must say that I bought my tickets to the Indies on the first day they were available.  Why?  Two words: Janelle Monáe.  More about her later.

Here are some of the highlights for me:

Mother Mother: Wednesday March 9 @ the Phoenix.

A few years ago I checked out Mother Mother when they played a late night set at the Brigantine Room.  This was about a year before their debut album was professionally recorded and released.  At that that point they were selling a charming version of the album that was recorded in their living room.  I was so impressed by the band that I saw them again the following night at Sneaky Dee’s, and then a third time the following night at Smiling Buddha. 

I will say that I found their following album, “O My Heart” to be a bit disappointing, and I wasn’t too happy about a performance I saw at Lee’s Palace in October of 2008.  Simply put, they lost the charming small band element and energy that I loved from their earlier shows.  That being said, last year I caught a free acoustic performance at the Toronto Institute for the Enjoyment of Music which charmed my pants off once again, so I am willing to give them another shot. 

Bombay Bicycle Club w/ Dinosaur Bones:  March 11 @ Lee’s Palace

I can’t say I’ve ever seen Bombay Bicycle Club live before, but their shit sounds tight.  Also, I’ve caught Dinosaur Bones a dozen times now around town and the fellows never disappoint; they deliver some high-energy charismatic rock that will have you dancing.

The Indies w/ JANELLE MONAE, Hollerado & Bombay Bicycle Club:  March 12 @ Fairmont Canadian Room

I’ve saved the best for last: Janelle Monáe.  I’ve been meaning to see this woman live for the last year, more so after a good friend from NYC who knows his shit told me he was highly impressed by her live performance.  

What can I say about Janelle  Monáe?  The melodies and rhythms are absolutely engaging, punctuated nicely by some strong brass work.  That woman can also dance like nobody I’ve ever seen before, and it certainly doesn’t hurt that she’s absolutely stunning with those enormous eyes.  What is more astonishing is that she can pull off an energetic piece like “Tightrope” and the next minute she can deliver the sweetest version of Chaplin’s “Smile” that you’ve ever heard.  If you’ve never checked her out, do so:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwnefUaKCbc&feature=player_detailpage

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-NpATPAa08&feature=player_detailpage