“Get on the Bus” with The Human Statues
Jeff Bryant and Zachary Stevenson of the folk-funk band The Human Statues have been “takin’ it to the streets” for several years and they are serious about having a good time. Many recognize them from Toronto’s lively streets where they busk on a regular basis but their gigs are gaining some heavy momentum. Their purpose, as they state it, is “jubilation, man. Jubilation.” The positive vibe soaks in when listening to their debut album titled, Sweet Sorrow for the Happily Departed.
The phrase, “get on the bus” (coined by the artists) speaks to those encouraging a sense of community or equality. I was fortunate to share some time with Jeff Bryant and he explained that regardless of where your interpretive-bus is heading, one should take the leap and remember that, as he put it, “if it were easy, everyone would be doing it.”… more>>
Book your calendar!
Confirm the date: The Human Statues Play Clinton’s Tavern Thursday, October 18th which is located on the SW corner of Clinton and Bloor St. The show begins at 9pm.
See you there!
After Jeff and Zachary met and forged a musical relationship in Victoria, BC, they longed to collaborate musically so, at the first window of opportunity, the two recorded and it blossomed from there. When asked why journey to Toronto, Jeff responded so fluidly with, “go straight to the source,” he added, “ Toronto has all these great communities. Kensington Market, for example feels like what Greenwich Village would be in the 60s.” As a testament to his character, he was as eloquent in conversation as on CD.
Jeff and Zach stem from a theatrical background and their performances are interactive to say the least. On-lookers can contribute to the joyful noise with egg-shakers or their voices; their strategy is to foster an environment of inclusion, in turn, creating a society of affirmative action and positivity.
These performers do not wait for an opportunity to play. With busking, the city is their oyster and every corner is a venue whether it holds one person or four hundred. Although a beer or two has been dumped into their guitar case, the trio view Toronto’s demeanour (Kensington Market especially) as encouraging and delightfully organic.
Check out The Human Statues’ upcoming show Thursday, October 17 at Clinton’s Tavern located on the SW corner of Clinton and Bloor St . The jubilation starts at 9pm.
Above all, look for them! You’ll find them in the streets, in venues or serenading travellers on streetcars.
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