The Paper Kites: Couples, Sad Singles, And Everybody Else
This September, Australian indie band, The Paper Kites, embarked on their largest tour yet, beginning in Vancouver, BC. They toured throughout the U.S and shortly after returned to Canada for their show at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto on Oct, 10. The intimate Phoenix Concert Theatre is a cozy and historic venue, which was fitting for such a band.
Their stage setup at The Phoenix was simple yet picture-perfect which also perfectly suited their calming music. Similar to many indie shows, the lighting at The Paper Kites show was dark with neon purple, blue, green and white lights subtly flashing behind grids on either side of the stage. Behind the band was a plain white sheet hanging from the ceiling. The lights and the sheet brought little attention to the band members, which allowed the fans to focus primarily on their music.
The first few songs the Australian band played were tracks of their most recent album, On the Corner Where You Live. This album was released in 2018 shortly after, On the Train Ride Home; a smaller album that was released the same year. For these first few performances, the five band members were spread out, playing their designated instruments, before the band members walked over to lead singer, Sam Bentley. The Australian group
then all hovered over one microphone and sang a stripped-down version of their 2013 track, “Paint.” For this performance, all instruments were abandoned except for one of Bentley’s guitars and the audience was asked to remain silent. This was an authentic moment where fans were able to feel even more connected to the lyrics. After this Bentley took a minute to catch his breath and introduce his fellow band members as they returned to their instruments. He then began to share the nostalgic story behind the song, “Between the Houses” before bringing the lyrics to life in the performance.
“Now every time they ask her where she got those shoes, she says, I got them right here on my feet,” sings Bentley in the chorus of “Between the Houses.” According to Bentley, these specific lyrics illustrate a time Bentley was traveling with his sister in-law and they were approached by a shoe shiner. This specific moment was a bonding experience for the two. The performance of “Between the House” painted a picture and described a special connection.
Bentley and guitarist Dave Powys brought an array of guitars to the show. Towards the end of the evening, Powys surprised the audience with a banjo. He began showing off his skills on the banjo and slowly led into the beat of the band’s 2011 hit, “Bloom.” The crowd cheered and sang along as soon as they recognized the tune.
Bentley said The Paper Kites music attracts couples and sad single people, however, their show at The Phoenix Concert Theatre proved this statement wrong. The Paper Kites put on a spectacular show suited for everyone and all musical tastes.
