CMAT TAKES ON TORONTO
BY ARLINIrish singer-songwriter CMAT brought her North American leg of the California or Bust tour to Toronto for the biggest turnout yet! The Opera House was packed right to the back of the venue, and for good reason. CMAT put on a wildly entertaining show with fantastic vocals and fun banter throughout. Her country- pop sound brings a unique lens to the themes in her Crazymad, For Me album, a concept album about breakups, reflection and all of the emotions that follow.
The show was opened by Morgana aka Morgana’s Party Hits, her songs were lovely and ambient, reminiscent of 80’s disco pop, and contrasted by an occasionally interrupting disembodied voice that would speak to her after each song, questioning her motives, and poking fun.
“California” as the first song on the album and setlist is the perfect beginning as CMAT reflects on the grief caused by a past relationship and embarks on a journey to California to start anew. One of my favourites was her performance of “Where are Your Kids Tonight?”. Originally sung alongside American musician John Grant, she performs a duet with one of her band members and it's most definitely a highlight of the night. CMAT is very much herself while also embodying this specific character/ stage persona that is evident in songs such as this one. Her stage presence is theatrical and broadway-esque, from her mannerisms and frantic expressions to the on stage dynamic with band members, It really is a joy to watch everything unfold.
The California or Bust Tour Will continue through to mid-June, with a few shows left in North America and finishing off in Europe. Tickets can be purchased through cmatbaby.com
