Local record company Attainable Records had a busy week of showcases of local and Southern Albertan music with a variety of showcases taking place throughout downtown, Thursday through Saturday.
I only caught the final showcase at the Slice, Nov. 28 and only caught a few of the acts performing at it. I arrived during a strong set from local progressive rock band Accalia, who have just released their new CD.
They have shifted gears a little from progressive rock experimentation to more mainstream, traditional sounding metal.
They featured a lot less shredding and a more slower, stoner rock groove since I last saw them though they still had a massive bottom end due to an eight string guitar, and featured some solid playing, catchy riffs and tasteful solos.
In addition to their own music they also played a few covers including a decent version of Billy Idol’s “Rebel Yell.”
Calgary pop punk trio the Ativans completely killed it, bringing addictively catchy ’90s style pop punk along the lines of Green Day and Blink-182.
“Panic Drain” was one of many highlights of their set. Frontman/ guitarist Billy Dixon sang lead vocals as bassist Corey Tapp shouted background vocals while thrashing around. Adam Waddell was a machine on the drums adding subtle rolls in between laying down straight ahead rhythm. They played much of their new CD “Landlocked.”
Fellow Calgarian the Detractions played a little more experimental punk along the lines of NoMeansNo and the Bad Brains.
They added a little bit of reggae influence and a touch of surf into their sound as well.
“Frankenstyle” was an immediate highlight of their set, full of energy and biting Fender guitars.
They thanked the Slice for “keeping us wobbly and full of pizza,” before ending the night just after midnight.
