Fantasy, indeed

We went out last night to see Final Fantasy play. I've been a fan for ages, but it was the first time I've seen him play live (other than as a part of Arcade Fire), and it was just as good as I'd expected. Accompanying the music was an enchanting and mesmerizing display of images, done on an overhead projector by artist Stephanie Comilang. And the encore was a cover of Mariah Carey's "Fantasy," which was pretty great. Of course you should seek out and listen to Final Fantasy's original music, but do take a few minutes to check out his version of "Fantasy" -- especially on video (found here). Actually, you should revisit the original (here) first, for the full glory of the cover. (If these links don't make your day, you should probably take your pulse, or have your sense of humour checked, or something. Trust me.)

So we got to the venue at about nine o'clock last night, which seemed ridiculously early, since I don't think I've ever seen a band take the stage before 9:30 in this town, but Ohbijou had already finished. So disappointing -- I'd been looking forward to seeing them. But we did see Basia Bulat's set, and she was completely charming. I'd heard a few of her songs before, mostly because it seems like every time I turn on CBC Radio someone is talking about her. (Go here and listen to "I Was a Daughter.")

The show was part of Pop Montreal. I'm not planning to go to any other shows, but I'm definitely thinking of checking out the Puces Pop fair this weekend. (Impressive vendor list here.) Other than that, I'll be knitting away on my Woodland Shawl so I can wear it to Rhinebeck, which is in two weeks! I'm giddy at the very thought of it.