Pilot Speed

25-Jun-2007 09:20 PM

Contributed by: pete

Concert Reviews

The Mod Club in Toronto, Ontario

Pilot Speed
Kill The Lights

June 20, 2007

Photos and Review by: Pete Nema

Full Photo Set (18 photos)

Pilot Speed is a local Toronto act that started out named Pilate but had to change their name to avoid litigation. Even though the name changed occured over a year ago now, I discovered that many people at their show couldn't help but still call them Pilate, and indication of the number of dedicated fans they've picked up since their first full-length CD release in 2003. Their latest Canadian release is called Sell Control For Life's Speed and was released under the name Pilate in May 2006, but it was then re-released in the United States as Into The West under the name Pilot Speed in September 2006, with the addition of the song Into Your Hideout, a hit from their debut Canadian release Caught By The Window. It seems a little messy for fans that have been following them for years, but from a business perspective it all makes sense and should actually simplify their foray into other countries. Either way, I've switched over to calling them Pilot Speed in an attempt to support the band in their quest to acquire fans in new markets.

Todd Clark is an amazing talent, always always full of passion when singing, playing the piano, or on guitar. Chris Greenough is the guitarist that produces the endless catchy riffs that cause my mind to get stuck on their songs. Aside from their two radio hits Into Your Hideout and Barely Listening, they played two new songs during the set, shown as Waltz and Wood n Bones on the set list, both of which will make a good basis for a new album. In fact, Todd mentioned that they were going on a bit of a hiatus to write/record a new CD. In the middle of the set, Bill Keeley (drums) came out from behind his drum set and joined the other three members right up at the front of the stage to play an acoustic version of Don't Stare, a version that had Todd Clark playing the Six String Nation guitar.

I like listening to Pilot Speed at home, and I really enjoy seeing these guys play a show. I have no trouble imagining them playing a stadium and (for better or worse) with higher ticket prices. Sorry about not including any photos of either Ruby Bumrah (bass) or Bill Keeley... I promise I will next time! And I'm looking forward to next time already.

Info: Pilot Speed | Connect: MySpace

Kill The Lights

Kill The Lights has a sound that could be compared to, at least in part, the Arcade Fire. I arrived in time to hear them play three numbers, one that had an excellent and lengthy instrumental introduction. A highlight was when one of the musicians picked up two white tambourines and played them both with such vigor that the crowd starting cheering and whistling.