A night out on the town won’t be the same now that one of the city’s best-known rock ‘n’ roll bands is hanging up its drum sticks and guitar straps.
After 18 years of regular live performances, songwriter Elaine Dark, of the Elaine Dark Band, has decided to dissolve the group and hold one final live concert.
The band began as many other successful music groups have: with one passionate artist who found a few good friends who shared the same feeling. It then became one of the most popular live performance bands in Toronto’s gay community.
“We actually started at The Rose Café,” says Dark. “We’ve been the weekly house band for bars such as The Rose, Crews, Tangos, Slack’s and Boots.”
Dark attributes the band’s successful career and long-standing gigs to its dedicated and supportive fans. The band always delivered a wide selection of feel-good cover tunes, along with some of their own songs.
“I personally like a very raw performance from the heart, something not so polished,” says Dark, noting the band has pulled from a variety of musical influences.
Original song “You Are the Only” is a huge fan favourite because of its soulful lyrics.
“Even if it’s not your kind of music, people still enjoy it,” says keys and vocals member Janet Whiteway.
One secret to the group’s success was a funk element sprinkled into its performances between its traditional country and rock sound.
It’s never easy saying good-bye to a good thing, but with one ending comes a new beginning. Dark and other members of the band say they want to get more involved in songwriting and possibly launch solo careers.
“I would really like to close out with a bang and have a chance to say thank you to all of the bar owners, staff, media and everyone who supported us show after show during the years,” says Dark.
The Deets:
Elaine Dark Band final concert
The Stage Goes Dark, featuring Elvira Kurt
Sat, March 3, 8pm
Palais Royale
1601 Lake Shore Blvd W
palaisroyale.ca
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