Some music has a weird infectious energy. So catchy, it spreads like wild fire. So fun and unpredictable, you don’t quite know what rhythms you’ll hear next or how to move to it. And this same music is so exciting that it can literally feel like it has the power to speed up time so that 45 minutes feels like the blink of an eye. Such is the case for Montréal’s La Sécurité a five piece that has been labeled arty dance punk and is for fans of bands like La Femme with perhaps more dance than psychedelic overtones.
In fact, one of the first things that lead singer and keyboardist Éliane Viens-Synnott did was to announce she loves to dance and she didn’t stop moving the entire time. It felt like a hip French-Canadian party that Chicagoans rarely get a glimpse of. Yet, the band also has caught the admiration of critics as well as fans as their 2024 album Stay Safe! was nominated for a Polaris Prize.
Another thing that works in their favor and should encourage those who love this album to see them live is the on stage chemistry between them. The tightness of the drums, two guitarists, keyboard, and bass come together nicely in a way that shows a sort of zaniness that doesn’t take itself too seriously and yet still feels held together well in its layers of melodies and chord progressions. One big take away is that there isn’t a dud on the album or live with each song sounding like it could be the main hit. “Le Kick” “Serpent” “Suspens” “Detour” are all sure to keep your feet moving and it’s possible their last song of the set, “Ketchup.” might show up on their next album. Bonus points for bassist Félix Bélisle reminding the crowd to vote carefully in the upcoming election. Hopefully, they will tour with a well deserving headlining spot the next time they are in the States!
Setlist:
