Sonic Brews: Recapping Heaven For Real and Kiwi Jr. at Collective Arts Hamilton
Photo: Steve St. Jean
Collective Arts, known for its craft beer, spirits, and cocktails, has been showcasing visual artists and musicians on its products since its founding in 2013. Their Hamilton Brewery and Toronto Taproom are eclectic spaces where you can chill, grab a bevy, hang with your crew, and catch a concert.
On the Easter long weekend, I went to their main brewery in Hamilton for a night of good drinks and stellar indie rock featuring Heaven For Real and Kiwi Jr. The art-filled beer hall was a significant shake-up to the busy, bustling venues in Toronto that I'm used to. Typical Toronto shows have you packed in like sardines, but at Collective Arts, there was tons of space to hang out, have a good drink, and watch the show.
After a short delay (enough time for one more pint), Heaven For Real took to the stage (backed by a massive art mural) and effortlessly transported listeners through a kaleidoscope of emotions, weaving intricate melodies and introspective lyrics into each note. If you've yet to see these guys perform, don't miss out the next time they're at a venue near you and do yourself a favour and check out their latest EP Sweet Rose Green Winter Desk Top Tell This Side Autumn Of The Fighter Hot In A Cool Way via. Mint Records.
Following opener Heaven For Real, Toronto-based Kiwi Jr. brought their own brand of infectious indie rock to Collective Arts, igniting the atmosphere and amassing fans to the front of the stage in the massive space. Kiwi Jr. treated the audience to a dynamic performance filled with catchy hooks and irresistible rhythms.
From Heaven For Real's introspective musings to Kiwi Jr.'s infectious energy, the concert reminded me of music's unifying power as Collective Arts Hamilton became a haven for music lovers.
See all the concert photos from the show below and check out Collective's concert listings. Next up is the incredible Packs on May 10. Get your tickets HERE.
CONCERT PHOTOS
HEAVEN FOR REAL
KIWI JR.
Words & Photos by: Steve St. Jean