It's party time in Toronto

Local New Year's eve festivities cover all musical genres

The biggest party night of the year is approaching rapidly. Yes, we can all relate tales of woe about miserable times at New Year's Eve parties in the past, but we just keep coming back for more. There's something about the symbolism of kicking off a brand new year that lures most of us out and about each time.
For many, catching some live music (or a hot DJ) in one of Toronto's countless clubs is still the best way to celebrate. For that, club owners, bands, singers and DJs thank you, for it is traditionally their biggest payday (or night) of the year. As ever, there is no shortage of musical possibilities, so we'll help by pointing out some of the best bets. There really is something for every taste out there.
Blues-rock fans may well want to see The Jeff Healey Band at Healey's As mainman Jeff concentrates on running his nightclub (at Queen West and Bathurst) and performing frequently with his Jazz Wizards group, chances to see him in fiery blues-rock mode with his band are increasingly rare. Coldsweat open, and don't be surprised if a notable guest or two sit in with Jeff.
Another strong attraction for blues fans will be the venerable Silver Dollar, the city's best blues club. Their New Year's Eve party will mark the farewell performance of Fathead, long one of the best and most popular of Toronto blues bands. They're joined on the bill by Crazy Strings, a regular attraction at the Dollar with their fine bluegrass stylings. A $50 ticket for dinner and show is very reasonable, given the extortionate cover charges at some places.
Those into roots rock are definitely encouraged to check out The Sadies at The Horseshoe. They're one of the best live bands in the country, and are much in demand outside their home city of Toronto (they've just been gigging in England). Their highly original sound draws on country, bluegrass, rock, surf and punk elements. Expect some talented guests, including the parents of Sadies singer/guitarists Dallas and Travis Good. A good bet, for sure, especially given just a $15 cover charge.
On the punk rock side, The 360 has Cheerleader 666, Goat Horn and Nice Cat, if you want to mosh the night away. Further west on Queen Street, The Bovine Sex Club features the hard rockin' Downbelows and Rocket Tits.
The historic Gladstone Hotel in Parkdale hosts an Ay Carumba! party with diverse fare ranging from punk rock (Tijuana Bibles) to the racy Skin Tight Outta Sight burlesque troupe. It is just $5 to party at Sneaky Dee's at their Suck My Disc New ears Party. Local indie music collective Suck My Disc are celebrating a successful year, and OK Lucky, Grasshopper Sound Clash and Action Makes are amongst those playing.
Latin music is always guaranteed to get a party jumping, so look for plenty of revelry and great grooves at Lula Lounge. The very fun Dundas Street West club will feature top local salsa band Pacande as well as comedian Martha Chaves and DJ Radames.
For the jazz fan seeking something elegant and civilized, The Top O' The Senator hits the spot. It will feature excellent local singer John Alcorn, who is actually in at the club all week (Dec. 27 to Jan. 3). John and his band will concentrate on material from his much-praised recent CD, Quiet Night - The Intimate Rogers and Hart. As the title indicates, it comprises Alcorn's stylish versions of songs from the famed composing duo, including such classics as "Isn't It Romantic," "My Romance," and the immortal "My Funny Valentine." Definitely the place to be for a romantic introduction to a new year.
The CITY-TV sponsored party at Nathan Phillips Square is always well-attended (it's free). Performers there include rising Quebecois star Jacynthe, r 'n b singer Melanie Durrant, and the cast of Mamma Mia.
Those into dance music can check out the All Access All Night party at The Guvernment, held in all eight rooms of the club. DJs include Mark Oliver and Aristotle. The $40 tickets include continental breakfast for those dancing 'til dawn! For a more intimate night of DJ music, the Rivoli upstairs features John Kong, DJ Fase, Circle Research and the Quartertones, and DJ Serious. Fans of classic Britpop and mod styles will head to Lee's Palace for the Blow Up party, scheduled to run 'til 5 a.m.
Something for everyone indeed.

Publication Date: 2003-12-28
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=3507