Enjoying a Saturday night out in Toronto (that hasn't revolved around hockey for the first time in a few months), I stopped by a show at Healey's that a friend had booked, and I was pleasantly surprised by a band I'd heard much about, but I'd never actually heard anything from. I'm talking about The Meanz, the local "triptronic rock" band that is starting to make some serious waves. And I "Meanz" it, they are really good!

All I really knew about this band was the name, from the posters that I've seen in almost every part of the downtown core, to the graffitied logo between Bloor and Rosedale subway stations. So I had no clue what to expect. Then they took the stage. Lead vocalist Jordyn Auld has this rich, enticing voice that immediately caught my attention. And guitarist Brett Sichello let loose some seriously great blues and funk riffs that actually made my jaw drop. The entire band is very good, and has a tight sound. And although it isn't always so, as other bands have attempted and failed, the alternative/electronic fusion really works.

Their CD was released November 30th with a party at The Horseshoe, and they're scheduled to take part in CMW 2006.

Keep an eye out for their next show, and get to it if you can. With their very intensive promo team, it'll be hard to escape the name being constantly in your face around the city.