Tripping West is fun. I have liked their music since discovering them on Project Opus almost a year ago and for different reasons, I have never been able to catch them live (which is surprising because they play a lot around here). I am really glad I made it this time. Expecting a typically low Vancouver mid-week turnout, I was surprised to see about 100+ people when I walked in the door, just before the band went on. On a Wednesday night it seems bands are lucky to bring in 50 in this city.

They start off with Inside Myself and Head in the Sand. Wow - these guys rock a little more than I thought they would. Maybe it was just the buzz of being live, but the radio friendly pop that I expected was on a bit of a bender, and it was coming at me loud and strong. Cool. I notice something else: every head in the place is watching the stage. No exaggeration - every head! I never see that. Three songs in they throw in a cover of Tenacious D, which clearly rocks the room (and the guy in charge of the lights!).

Up next is the Drinking Love Song. When I first heard the recorded version I commented that it would likely be awesome live. I was right. With a drink in each hand, this song is a blast. It was over way too soon.

A couple more songs from the recent CD release, Scene From Our Lives, are next, including the title track. The studio versions of these songs have some rich layers, and the five member band do a great job of bringing the right elements to a live show. No artsy pretention, no multi track sequences. Just honest, melodic rock delivered straight up with a healthy dose of fun.

A couple more covers: a kind of obscure rendition of Foo Fighters' Everlong, and then a bang on version of The Cranberries' Zombie.

They close the show with a smokin' hot Pass You By and a new one, Turn Off Your Mind. I defintely won't be waiting another whole year to see them again.

Tripping West plays a lot of different venues: from clubs to family friendly outdoor festivals. When you get the chance, catch them in a live show. It's a ton of fun.

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