Tuesday night at Quai des Brumes was all but quiet as Toronto-based folk-rock band Burs gave an electric performance that moved loyal supporters and new fans alike. Under the dim disco ball reflecting off stained glass windows, Burs oscillated between stripped-down indie folk tunes reminiscent of Big Thief, and fuzzy pedal-heavy ballads à la Alvvays. Lead singer Lauren delivered their characteristically existential lyrics with the same authenticity as she did on their debut album, Holding Patterns. They were supported by Montreal-based Holly McLachlan and Moth’s Frog in between short intermissions soundtracked by Slow Pulp, Adrianne Lenker, and Dean Blunt on AUX. Overall, it was an energetic show on the last leg of their 8-stop tour across Canada.

Highlights of the night were the opening song, Certain (a personal request from yours truly) and a series of introspective singles which are set to be released in January.

In attendance was Montreal-based folk-inspired artist Bells Larsen, who also promised new music in 2025. In the meantime, you can watch Bells share some of the albums that influenced his debut record “Good Grief” down below.  (Firuza H.)

CKUT Picks – Bells Larsen