Live Music
For booking inquiries please email toucankingston@gmail.com
The ToneKats is a versatile & experienced Canadian band based out of Kingston, Ontario. They perform Classic and newer rock, some catchy country rock, and their own original high-energy rock! These Kats even take requests! The band plays something for everyone!
Effusive and thoughtful, without pretense yet still above board, Billie Zizi carves a distinct path
marked by sonic abandon and a wild spirit. Now on her third studio album [Levitate, Oct 2024],
she continues to prove herself as an exciting emergent voice in contemporary music. The album dances gently through illusions of kaleidoscopic colour with Zizi’s masterful vocal prowess in full bloom. Fans of musical alchemists akin to Khrunangbin or Glass Animals can expect melodic charms rife throughout the ten track run time. Listeners are treated to decorative and
unpredictable cadences, poetic prowess and tasty mid-tempo rockers, creating an airy,
indie-Americana atmosphere that feels ethereal and whimsical.
https://billiezizi.com/
The Wild Rose Orchestra are a local country rock ‘n’ roll group lead by Dennis Bouwman and joined by Dan Curtis (lead guitar), Winston Vinh (bass), Josh Lyon (keys) and Harrison Stewart-Juby (drums). Bouwman writes and sings with a gritty honesty rarely seen these days. Bouwman’s combination of heart-wrenching lyrics, warm melodies, and a voice like the bottom 10 pipes on a church organ is sure to captivate you and make you feel.
https://www.dennisbouwman.com/
Catch Jonny Kirwan (of False Friends) every Friday of November at The Toucan. Performing an acoustic set up in Kirkpatrick’s.
The Sun-Dried Flies are an indie, alternative band from Brockville, Ontario, known for their fresh yet familiar sound, and exciting live performances.
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, the 10-piece reggae band Reggaddiction came together in 2019, channeling their passion for reggae music into a distinctive sound that seamlessly fuses the spirit of Jamaica with Canadian sensibilities. Fronted by the charismatic male and female lead vocalists D.M., songtress Trish Campbell, and Sunray Grennan the son of the famous Jamaican drummer Winston Grennan, known for his studio one performances with Bob Marley and the Wailers as well as the creator of the One Drop reggae rhythm in the
late ’60s. Reggaddiction’s music transports audiences to a sun-soaked paradise, while also tackling thought-provoking themes.
Sadie McFadden is a jazz-trained Rock, Folk, Soul vocalist and multi-instrumentalist born in Hamilton, Ontario and currently based in Kingston, Ontario. Her professional music career exploded during high school with performances in New York City, Boston, Chicago, and Toronto, with one of her most exceptional performances as a backup singer for Grammy-award winning singer Lorde at the MMVA’s. With her Queen’s bachelor’s degree attained, she toured with rock outfit Hinterwood across the east coast with 10 shows in three weeks and garnered 8 Million views on TikTok with her music.
Catch Jonny Kirwan (of False Friends) every Friday of November at The Toucan. Performing an acoustic set up in Kirkpatrick’s.
An alt(ish)-rock(ish) band pulling from contemporary alternative and some early 2010s, Willy Nilly's influences don't just end there. Similar bands become harder and harder to point to the more you listen to Willy Nilly's wide ranging and growing discography. Members have changed around singer/songwriter Owen Fullerton since the band's birth in 2019, but the lyrically dense, vulnerable songwriting has remained at the center of the band's upbeat but laid back sound. They released their debut album in 2021 and are looking to release the newest full length in 2023.
Based in Toronto, Canada, Heavy Head is an alternative rock band. With diverse influences spanning several eras and genres, the band has quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances and quality songwriting: full of mesmerizing keyboard/synth soundscapes, intricate guitar riffs, and thought-provoking lyrics. Their music seeks to create interest in the mundanity of life around them with an unapologetic and raw honesty that resonates with audiences. During their first full year, after selling out some of Toronto's most prestigious venues, HH was awarded entry into Exclaim's Class of 2023 and went on an Eastern Canada tour. With a steadily growing fanbase and unique sound, Heavy Head, is poised to make a significant impact on the Canadian music scene.
Sweet Pete and The Heat are a collective of local musicians who play with various bands in Kingston. Meeting each other at various open mics and house parties we all share a love of dirty, funky blues music inspired by everyone from Junior Wells, Muddy Waters and Van Morrison to lesser-known artists such as Lucky Peterson and Snooky Prior. Our goal is to get people dancing and that’s what we do.
The ” Ghetto Xpress ” was formed in October of the year 2000, in response for the need of a new house band at the Toucan on Monday nights, a gig previously occupied by Kingston blues stalwarts Blue Monday for the previous 2 1/2 years. Blue Monday members Zak Colbert and Mike Sakell, decided to continue on with a different band and a change of concept, and formed the Express. With keyboard wizard Spencer Evans throwing his hat in, and the addition of a fresh new face on guitar, James Taylor, the band was complete. The original repertoire focused heavily on the sounds of Motown, and classic R&B, but with the addition of Jonathan Stewart a.k.a ” Bunny ” on tenor saxophone a few years ago, the band took a decidedly more funky New Orleans type approach. Zak and James eventually left the band to be replaced by Zak’s young protege, Alec Barken, on bass, and Mark Taras on guitar, and that has been the lineup for the last eight years.
Known for sharing the stage with musical friends who drop by now and then, many touring acts with a night off in Kingston, manage to find their way to the stage and sit in with the band.Some of the notable ones include, Colin James, the Blue man group band, Sarah Harmer, Ryan Lewis, and members of Trooper to name just a few. You never know who’s going to show up when Ghetto Xpress hits the stage.
This band is one of those “must see ” acts, so next time you hear about one of their shows, make sure to get out and see them,or sit in with them, and remember to keep on truckin….
The band Jellytrain was originally formed in 2019 as “ Up jumped the Blues “ . With the departure of founding members Rick Flanagan, and Greg Duncan ( R.I.P. ) , and then keyboardist Craig Tousignant, Jellytrain was set to re- invent itself. With original members ZAK Colbert ( Bass ), Shawn Dore ( guitar, vocals ) and Mike Sakell ( drums, vocals ) keyboardist Alain McCann ( keys, vocals) joined the band offering his considerable talents. The result is a tight four piece Funk Blues band that is receiving high praise from live audiences every time they appear. With three lead vocalists, and sweet harmonies, they are sure to impress all who attend one of their live shows.
Squid Pistol is an alternative rock cover band that plays a mix of hits focusing on movie soundtracks. Our setlist features a range of tracks from some of our favorite films, in our own interpretation.
So really… who is Slo’ Tom? His story is the stuff of legend. Tom burst upon the 1990’s punk/alternative scene and his band FurnaceFace soon became a nationally know entity releasing five albums, major label distribution, videos with heavy rotation on Much Music, multiple CMVA awards, and a dozen national tours. Tom has spent a decade reinventing himself as a songwriter.
Catch Jonny Kirwan (of False Friends) every Friday of November at The Toucan. Performing an acoustic set up in Kirkpatrick’s.
The Band is described by its following as a sound that resonates through generations. Their message gives light to the struggle, the celebration, the human condition, disenchantment and obsession, to a sometimes dark but always dance-worthy beat. Taking influence from bands such as Muse, Arctic Monkeys, Franz Ferdinand, Billy Talent & MGMT, James Blonde does a perfect job at taking its listeners on an emotional journey through the subtle weaving of confessional songwriting, High-octane rock guitar, electric pop groove and funky bass, as well as some old-fashioned soul with insanely precise musicianship.
What’s on the horizon for James Blonde? The band is giving fans a sneak preview of their upcoming album "Chameleon" (out Sept 8th, 2023) in the form of singles called "Say What You Want", "Eliminator", "You Don't Even Know", “Back To Life” and "FOMO", the latter of which was #1 most added at Canadian Active Rock Radio in March 2023 and broke into the Top 30 on the Active Rock radio charts in Canada!
A Kingston, Ontario trio, with acoustic guitar, bass, and drums, playing sing along party pub music.
If you’re a fan of great music, you won’t want to miss the live performance by the Canadian band Five Dollar Dates! Known for their dynamic and energetic shows, this talented group of musicians will be performing an incredible set of cover songs that will have you singing along all night long. From the iconic sounds of Blue Rodeo and Neil Young to the modern hits of Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers, Five Dollar Dates is sure to have something for everyone. So come out and join us for a night of unforgettable music that’s sure to leave you wanting more. Don’t miss your chance to see Five Dollar Dates live – it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Catch Jonny Kirwan (of False Friends) every Friday of November at The Toucan. Performing an acoustic set up in Kirkpatrick’s.
Frank Ryan, a singer songwriter from Dublin, will be taking the stage and playing a range of covers and original songs! His music has been described as “soulful rock” with hauntingly powerful and melodic vocals.
Support Frank Ryan & Friends by leaving a tip:
Born in 1992, deceased in '94, resurrected in '97 and going strong since, THÖRAX are:
Greg Watson - Lead Vocals, Bass Guitar
Sean Redmond - Lead Guitar, Vocals
Mark Fraser - Drums, Vocals
https://thoraxblood.bandcamp.com/album/feel-the-meat-beneath-your-feet
On October 25th, we’re turning up the volume for an epic Halloween celebration! Isbistër makes their Kingston debut, sharing the stage with Paper Bag Princess and The Brightsides. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed to impress, and get ready to dance!
The Paper Bag Princes are an alternative rock group from Kingston, ON. The group consists of vocalist/bassist Josh (Big Dog) Handford, lead guitarist Mark (Samy) Samaha, rhythm guitarist Zakk (deadtrees) Parisien, and drummer Eagan (Shotgun) Tormey. The band has been a mainstay in the local rock scene, headlining shows at The Mansion and Clark Hall in recent years, and have as of 2023 have released demo tapes onto spotify.
The Friendly Frogs Freak Show, Progressive Funk Batracien energetically loaded and ready to draw you in an infinite whirlwind of colored sounds supported by an eclectic rhythmic section which offers you dancing chills and atmospheres conducive to exposing your interior frog!
FABB returns to their home away from home to do it again. The last show was a blowout, so get your beauty sleep and get ready to let loose. Featuring original members Mike Farrell, Spencer Evans, Ian 'Loaf' Woodward, and Bōnz Bowering with guest Scott Megginson on bass.
Swordwall presents
BAG$ = Bag Money (Ktown hip hop)
bagmoneyrap.bandcamp.com
Wave Generators (NYC hip hop)
https://linktr.ee/wavegenerators
ialive (Philly hip hop)
https://youtu.be/8TwhbhjSLHo?si=cd_1VHER7UsAGVs8
Dan Doesn't Sleep (Ktown hip hop)
https://dandoesntsleep.bandcamp.com/
Dupel (Ktown hip hop)
https://youtu.be/hX2I7zqjh1o?si=74U1qffyqaf_YnOG
Friday October 18th at The Toucan
Local hip hop veterans BAG$ = Bag Money are excited to announce their return to live music with their first show since 2020 joined by a lineup of acts from near & far.
Kingston heads are no strangers to Height Keech who has joined forces with Nosaj from the legendary 90s NYC hip hop act New Kingdom to form Wave Generators.
Also on the bill are Philadelphia rapper / producer ialive & Kingston mainstays Dan Doesn't Sleep & Dupel.
New Orleans Funk Band from Kingston, ON.
Join us for good music and good times, Friday 5-8pm, for a live acoustic performance featuring Tim Sheffield! Sheffield plays rock songs with blues and funk feels, songs with reggae influenced grooves and songs reminiscent of old time country waltzes he heard in his youth.
7 piece Rock & Roll band, ready to blow the roof off any venue in town.
Reassembled from parts of Kingston Ontario’s choicest Blues & Outlaw Country tribute bands, The Mill•Rights are a group of hard-workin’ full-time friends on a mission to forge their own timeless body of music. Building on the foundations laid by some of Canada’s most beloved artists, The Mill•Rights began working in the winter of 2021 with Jason Mercer at Neptune’s Machine on Wolfe Island. Their self-titled debut album, released summer of 2023, includes 13 original songs. Much like their live performances, they move fluidly through elements of roots, rock, reggae, country, folk, and blues among other genres.
Kingston’s multi-instrumentalist Christopher Jackson has been performing for over twenty-five years now. From singing and playing in a variety of renowned cover bands, to session recording artist and guest touring musician, to venue house band, Jackson has done it all. Known for his banter, audience interaction and impromptu musical collaborations, it’s not uncommon for innocent bystanders to be drawn in and woven into the fabric of the evening's entertainment.
Now creating his own music, Jackson’s debut album carries that personal connection felt at his live shows into his songs. With all the vocals and the majority of the instrumentation performed himself, the production evokes notes of seventies roots rock, alt-country and blends folky Canadiana/Americana with his own twist. Produced in collaboration with longtime friend, fellow musician and recording engineer Paul “Doc” Halladay, the album includes delightful embellishments by guest musicians in all the right places. Now ready for the world to hear, listeners will find themselves captured by music that is authentic, real and relatable.
Performing a live acoustic set upstairs in Kirkpatrick’s, every Friday of September. Jon McLurg is a singer-songwriter based in Kingston, Ontario. Jon has been a staple of the local folk music scene for more than 15 years as a solo performer and member of Turpin’s Trail, Crooked Wood, and The Goodnight Irenes.
The Wild Rose Orchestra are a local country rock ‘n’ roll group lead by Dennis Bouwman and joined by Dan Curtis (lead guitar), Winston Vinh (bass), Josh Lyon (keys) and Harrison Stewart-Juby (drums). Bouwman writes and sings with a gritty honesty rarely seen these days. Bouwman’s combination of heart-wrenching lyrics, warm melodies, and a voice like the bottom 10 pipes on a church organ is sure to captivate you and make you feel.
https://www.dennisbouwman.com/
Performing a live acoustic set upstairs in Kirkpatrick’s, every Friday of September. Jon McLurg is a singer-songwriter based in Kingston, Ontario. Jon has been a staple of the local folk music scene for more than 15 years as a solo performer and member of Turpin’s Trail, Crooked Wood, and The Goodnight Irenes.
Performing a live acoustic set upstairs in Kirkpatrick’s, every Friday of September. Jon McLurg is a singer-songwriter based in Kingston, Ontario. Jon has been a staple of the local folk music scene for more than 15 years as a solo performer and member of Turpin’s Trail, Crooked Wood, and The Goodnight Irenes.
Performing a live acoustic set upstairs in Kirkpatrick’s, every Friday of September. Jon McLurg is a singer-songwriter based in Kingston, Ontario. Jon has been a staple of the local folk music scene for more than 15 years as a solo performer and member of Turpin’s Trail, Crooked Wood, and The Goodnight Irenes.
Graven (Matty McKechnie) is a Nepean, Ontario, Canada-born indie folk musician and songwriter who used to make bedroom rapcasettes in his teens under the name “Man Of Steel”. His newest album Simple Complex was mixed by Joel Plaskett and made in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. With 15 major releases under his belt, Matty (Graven) has a perpetual passion for creating and sharing music. Matty is continually keeping busy throughout the pandemic with uplifting words and songs of support for his dedicated fan-base, which he has dubbed “Graventown” — a highly accepting and inclusive community which has become a safe-haven for anyone and everyone who wants to be their real-self without judgement.
Sweet Pete and The Heat are a collective of local musicians who play with various bands in Kingston. Meeting each other at various open mics and house parties we all share a love of dirty, funky blues music inspired by everyone from Junior Wells, Muddy Waters and Van Morrison to lesser-known artists such as Lucky Peterson and Snooky Prior. Our goal is to get people dancing and that’s what we do.
"Road Waves is a fun-filled, soul-rock explosion."
Road Waves, founded in 2014 by Ji Sharp, is a powerhouse in the live music scene. Their vibrant performances, blending blues, funk, jazz, and rock, defy categorization and push the boundaries of music. With two acclaimed self-released LPs—'The Lighthouse' (2015) & 'Red Sun Rising' (2018)—and captivating singles like 'Hometown' (2022), 'Small World' (2022), and 'Frog Rock' (2023), the band showcases their versatility and unwavering commitment to their craft.
For almost a decade, Road Waves has captivated crowds across North America with their soulful and high-energy shows. Their heartfelt songwriting and exceptional musicianship result in a personal and exhilarating musical journey. As they continue to ignite stages continent-wide, Road Waves invites you to embark on an extraordinary musical adventure that will transform you forever.
Acoustically written songs mashed with country, rock, and folk influences.
Rated Blue was formed years ago by the MacArthurs, a multi-instrumental father and son duo from Southwestern Ontario. This unique familial project provides a meeting place for their mutual love of writing, recording and performing together, finding common ground in the fertile soil of roots and folk music and the various forms they encompass.
Drawing from their punk roots, Futura Free brings energy, noise and excitement to new heights in every performance. The band is always masterfully fusing elements from a myriad of genres; from catchy indie-rock hooks to the experimental backdrops of noise music, and the sombre musicality of midwest emo. This band is one to get familiar with if you are looking for just a bit more nuance and ear candy incorporated into your feel-good jams (without getting too serious about it all).
Willy Nilly 10:30pm
Echoes 11:15pm
Futura Free 12:00am
Matt Almeida 1:00am
The China Cat Riders
We're a Grateful Dead tribute band from Kingston Ontario Canada. Newly formed out of a reunion of Hurricane Bob who played around town in the early 90's. Our members are all veterans of the Kingston music scene, and have a common love of The Dead.
Featuring visuals and light show by Josh Garrett
Hailing from Kingston Ontario, The Garvin Brothers are a high energy rock & roll band that play both covers and original tunes! Heavily influenced by artists like The Glorious Sons, The Black Crowes, The Trews, and Chris Stapleton, you won’t want to miss their next show! The Garvin Brothers were the 2023 Grand Prize winners of Kid’s Got Talent at The Empire Theatre in Belleville, headliners on Canada Day in Downtown Kingston, Kiwanis Music Festival Provincial Finalists, and semi-finalists in the Rising Star competition at the CNE in Toronto. Watch out, The Garvin Brothers are coming!
Two Years Apart: We are a classic alternative rock band hailing from Windsor Ontario. We have a diverse sound ranging from psychedelic instrumentals to hard rock riffs, integrated with catchy choruses. We started off as a group of friends and a set of brothers with a passion for music and entertainment. James D'Aloisio x Chase Santavy x Mitch D'Aloiso x Ryan Mickle
Gnome Chimpsky: Formed in the summer of 2019, Gnome Chimpsky is a three-piece rock band from Windsor, Ontario, Canada. The band draws inspiration from funk rock, reggae and blues, and in 2021, they released their first EP: “Something to Hold Onto”. The EP was well received by indie music critics such as: Stereo Stickman; and Pitch Perfect. Fans of The Black Keys, Jimi Hendrix, and Sublime should give their show a go.
