Concert Review: No Joy @ The Park Theatre

No Joy w/ Alex Calder & Haunter 

The Park Theatre

September 26, 2013

Ever have a record that you stumble upon, out of nowhere, and it instantly resounds with you and where you’re at in life? For me No Joy’s 2013 release Wait for Pleasure was that record, one that has been in near constant rotation for me over the last two months. Lush soundscapes, droning elements and even hints of dream-pop abound on this release, all whilst clearly making references to shoegaze. 

The Montreal-based duo reproduced the recording over a tight 35-minute set at the Park Theatre on Thursday night, while also pulling from 2009’s Ghost Blonde. Wait for Pleasure opening track ‘E’ was easily the show highlight - the track meandered into a tidal wave of swirling drone to close the show.

Local act Haunter and former Makeout Videotape/Mac Demarco member Alex Calder’s band opened up the night, both with efficient yet contrasting sets. Calder in particular was clearly influenced from his time with Demarco as they drew heavily recent release Time, as well as two covers of the King of the Hill theme.

-Will Burton