Goldfinger

live in Ottawa, Ontario (2002)

Angele

Punk rawk shows over the years have been based on sweaty rushing moshers and fast frantic music, the product of what talented bands bear to the crowd when the first roar of appealing strings are strung and the show unveils, there's nothing more spell-binding. I've been to many shows over the years but when I was told Goldfinger was booked at a local venue I knew even before getting there 1 hour early it was going to be more than the average show. But rather, I was about to have the honour of witnessing one of the greatest musical performances that will stick with me forever as all together an unforgettable event.

Hope to Die (hardcore band from London, Ontario) and Simple Plan were on the bill as well. Hope to Die's heavy edge struggled with the eager fans who (after the show stalled for almost an hour and a half) seemed too impatient at this time to hear nothing more than Goldfinger's unique rhythm. They were catchy but too heavy for what these kids wanted to hear. Simple Plan took to the stage next. I admit I'm not a big fan of their music but they put out a compelling stage performance, definitely proving to hold there own up there. Pierre's captivating voice carried through the crowd never missing a key. What set these guys apart is you can tell they love what they do when they're up there. Simple Plan's live act is well worth the time to check out and I have to admit I've gained a new respect for their music.

As they cleared off the stage the entire atmosphere in the venue mutated, the crowd doubled in size at the blink of an eye as the anxious rockers waited for the most overwhelming set of music to rumble through their mutinous bodies. Goldfinger, born over 8 years ago, conquered their spot in punk history when they performed 368 shows in one year, (giving them a title in the Guinness World Book of Records). Their hard work and extensive tour's, never ceased or faltered the raw passion these guys emit when performing for their loyal fan's world-wide.

Finally, the crowd's anticipation was put to rest and Goldfinger stepped up to the mic, that's when the unravelling of the most legendary performance to ever rock that stage stung everyone's eyes. They tore the fucking place up, hitting the ecstatic onlookers, hard with songs off almost every album (Counting the Days, Here in your Bedroom, Superman, as well as Spokesman, FTN, Dad, Open Your Eyes, off their recently released new album entitled ‘Open Your Eyes'. Their greatest work I think since their self titled released in 96. Goldfinger's flawless set was the tightest act to ever rock those walls, never missing a chord or a beat followed by John's infusing, melodic lyrics.
Brian, the new reinforcement behind the band (replaced Charlie on guitar in 01') although young in appearance, proved to reincarnate Goldfinger's polished sound. If Brian stays a permanent Goldfinger member his dynamic chords have already and will continue to contribute great tunes to this hypnotic quartet.

If the opportunity is ever given to you, check these guys out, you'll leave with an entirely new appreciation for musicians and punk rock. After my mind-warping mission that night, Goldfinger, a band not only recognised for using their powerful voices to address needed organisations like P.E.T.A and their involvement in veganism, they are, and will stay a fucking legend!