Red Handed Denial, Zoe Starra, MNTCLR & Astral Bell
November 4, 2022
Lee’s Palace, Toronto, ON
Canadian Metalcore outfit Red Handed Denial released their latest album, I’d Rather be Asleep, earlier this year. They are playing a small run of shows around Eastern Canada to celebrate the new album. Storming the stage at Lee’s Palace in Toronto on November 4th, they finally got to play their hometown and showcase some of their new material, which was easily some of their best. This show was supported by local acts; Zoe Starra, MNTCLR & Astral Bell.
Opening the show was Toronto’s favourite Cyborg singer, Zoe Starra. Starra’s is an ecliptic mix of rock, electronic, and singer/songwriter elements, with the added narrative twist that Starra is a cyborg with a human backing bad that is here to entertain. Zoe Starra gives audience members something different that will surely leave an impression.
MNTCLR brought the goods that night. Their performance was high energy, and the lead vocalist brought a lot of entertaining stage presence and charisma. The music of MNTCLR could simply be described of progressive rock tinged with RnB. The performances from all the band members were entertaining and electric. Surely, this Toronto band is one to catch.
Astral Bell is a progressive metal band from Toronto. Sometimes their music is mathy, sometimes it’s influenced by classic metal, and sometimes there are shreddy guitar solos. Simply put, a lot is going on here. The vocalist brings an eccentric, wild energy, the guitars are tight and crisp, the bass playing grooves, and the drums lay it down real good. Astral Bell will definitely please listeners who are looking for something a bit different in their progressive metal.
Red Handed Denial played an impeccable set. At long last, their hometown had the opportunity to hear songs from their latest effort. Boy, oh boy, these songs work so well live. Their performance was everything a fan could have hoped for. Every member is constantly on point. Everyone in the band has a captivating stage presence. Everyone looks like they’re having a blast, making me love their music even more.
Lead vocalist Lauren Babic is constantly switching between aggressive growls to majestic cleans. Every song is riddled with hooks, unrelenting guitar riffs, groovy bass, and wild drumming. Each song feels like an anthem when played live. I couldn’t say enough good things about Red Handed Denial. They are easily one of my favourite local acts, and I highly recommend all metal fans listen to their new record and see them play.
