High school bands O.E.M., The Basic Studs, and Liv & Katie performed magical night of music at Castro’s Lounge
By ALISON BURN
High school band O.E.M. (pronounced ohm) created a magical night of music recently at Castro’s Lounge on Queen Street East in the Beach.
O.E.M. invited Liv & Katieand The Basic Studs to join their line up on July 8 for a show that drew a massive crowd to the iconic Beach live music venue. The crowd packed Castro’s and spilled out onto the street, with some audience members peering in through the windows to take in the performances.
The evening began with the beautiful harmonies of Liv & Katie, and then shifted gears with The Basic Studs and O.E. M. delivering high-energy covers that kept the crowd moving.
The real surprise of the night came when the bands debuted original songs—showcasing incredible songwriting confidence for their age.
Much praise was shared among the crowd for the Malvern Collegiate music program, which has clearly fostered this impressive level of dedication, theory and a belief in their performance talent.
Local music staple Brian Guitarz was in the crowd to witness the performances, saying how pleased he was to see youth picking up real instruments rather than sitting home playing video games about playing guitars.
The Do-It-Yourself spirit extended beyond Castro’s stage to a showcase of sustainable fashion by Malvern student Thea Star, who sold out of merchandise on the spot. Her thrifted T-shirts featuring her beautiful designs inspired by each band’s name were a clear hit. For those who missed out, or want to support this eco-friendly creative endeavour, please visit Star’s website at https://theastarclothes.ca/
In covering The Who’s My Generation, The Basic Studs’s Jude Dillaboughsang: “I’m not trying to cause a big sensation”. But these bands certainly did by filling the house with original art and community spirit.
The momentum is only growing for this talented lineup; and the bands also set to the stage next the East End Spirit Fest at Jimmie Simpson Park on Sunday, July 12.
These kids aren’t just talking about their generation—they are actively defining it.
