Canadian icons Metric, Broken Social Scene, and Stars embark on dream joint tour

Iconic Canadian bands Metric, Broken Social Scene, and Stars have embarked on a joint tour that music fans are hailing as a dream come true. Traveling across North America to perform at renowned venues such as the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, and the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago, the bands are gearing up for a memorable experience. Following their North American tour, the groups will head to the United Kingdom and Europe in September, bringing their music to fans across the pond.

The musicians in these bands share deep friendships that have spanned many years, with some members having known each other since childhood. Notably, several band members are involved in more than one of the groups, having collaborated on music for over twenty-five years. The idea of embarking on the “All The Feelings Tour” sparked joy among the members, even if the practicality of the endeavor is questionable.

In the current landscape of the music industry, touring has become increasingly challenging for artists, especially in light of rising costs due to inflation spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Expenses related to transportation, equipment, accommodations, and visas have surged, making it more difficult for middle-class musicians to sustain themselves on the road. Despite these obstacles, the bands are pressing on with their musical pursuits.

Metric and Broken Social Scene have recently released new albums titled “Romanticize the Dive” and “Remember the Humans,” respectively. Metric guitarist Jimmy Shaw took the initiative to organize the tour, where his band holds the headlining spot, with Broken Social Scene following. While this arrangement may not make sense from a marketing perspective, Broken Social Scene’s Kevin Drew emphasizes that friendship and camaraderie take precedence over logistical considerations.

Stars’ Amy Millan, who provides vocals for Broken Social Scene and is longtime friends with Metric’s Emily Haines, views the joint tour as a celebration of enduring relationships. The convergence of these three bands on tour is a testament to their shared history and mutual support for each other’s musical endeavors.

Reflecting on their past days performing as budding artists, the bands recall a show in Toronto where they opened for Stars for a mere $10 admission fee. Fast forward to present times, and ticket prices have escalated, with extravagant VIP packages commanding high prices. Despite moving in anti-corporate circles, the tour is managed by Live Nation, a music promotion giant.

While some critics may view Live Nation as a dominating force in the music industry, the bands maintain that the company provides vital support for middle-class artists to thrive. With Live Nation backing their tour, the bands are grateful for the opportunity to share their music with a wider audience. The spirit of collaboration and friendship shines through as the bands take to the stage night after night, united by a shared passion for music.

As the All The Feelings Tour unfolds, fans can expect special moments where band members join each other on stage to perform beloved tracks. Despite the challenges and uncertainties of touring, the bands remain committed to delivering unforgettable performances for their loyal followers. With a sense of excitement and gratitude, the musicians are cherishing the opportunity to live out a dream that began many years ago. Tour dates across Canada beckon, promising more magical performances for fans to enjoy.