A Night Of Redemption

On September 12th, 2024 FJStar hit the stage with a group she formed specifically for the release of her album TO BE YOUNG. The original show had been rescheduled because of the floods back on August 9th. They had to change venues, continue rehearsals, and re-organize another show. Originally called “A Night With The Stars”, now it's “A Night Of Redemption”. That is because FJStar (Vocals), Liam Light (Keys and Guitar), Jay Cymbals (Drums), and melxbass (Bassist) didn't let the floods stop them from putting on an amazing performance at The Blue Dog Motel. They strived through and made the night one to remember. 

The night started with the opening act of Julian Lopez who was accompanied by two members of the group Resonance: Nick (on Drums) & Jack (on Bass). They played a few covers and many of Julian's original music. They also put on a very loud and expressive show, from Jack’s dope bass grooves to Nick's rhythmic and bouncy drums. 

The night then continued with FJStar. She played a few covers as well as new and original music off of her debut album called TO BE YOUNG which dropped on August 9th, 2024. The album has 9 tracks with a running time of around 26 minutes & 42 seconds. The album is a mix of Pop & R&B. “NO HESITATION”, “PRETTY LIES”, & “CREATURE” are personal favourites of mine. 

I've seen some, if not all, members of the show in other show settings before, but never altogether. I must say, they all played beautifully together. Liam always puts on a very animated and electric performance, heavily encouraging the audience to get as involved as possible. Jay never misses and keeps an energized and steady tempo, setting the tone for the show and keeping everyone on beat. Mel's playing is so subtle, but without her, the set would not have been what it is. And of course, FJStar sang beautifully and deep from the heart. 

During the set, they played new and original tracks from her new album. However, they also performed a few covers. 

From the performances of her first few tracks, you never would have guessed it was FJStar's first show ever. She eased right into it. Halfway through the performance, there was a wardrobe change which added somewhat of a revival to the show. Just before playing the track “RUNAWAY” they put on wacky, animal hats that gave the show a more laid-back and fun vibe. Letting the crowd know that we can dance and have a goofy time if we so please. It was really fun to be part of such a supportive and loving crowd. I've often felt that Montreal puts on the best shows,  not just because of the artists (who are amazing, such as all those who took the Blue Dog stage), but also because Montreal has amazing crowds. A personal favourite of mine was “Creature”. It's actually a song that I've played on CJLO 1690 AM before.

Before FJStar hit the stage, she had a couple of openers: Julian Lopez & Wisertimes. I've seen Julian Lopez play before, the first time was with 20 Minutes Til Sunrise & Baels back on February 1st, 2024. This was my first time ever seeing Wiser Times DJ a live set. However, he also makes his own music and you should definitely check him out too! I checked out his Spotify afterwards and I really enjoyed “Borderline”.

Overall, the show had a great vibe and all the artists and musicians I mentioned in this article are definitely worth checking out if you get a chance.

Below is the full tracklist of both sets:

Julian Lopez:

1. “Nights Like These” (Original)

2. “I'm Pretending I'm Not Here” (Original)

3. “Sometimes I Think About It” by The Blues Magoos

4. “Luna” (Solo & Original) 

5. “Hey Ya!” by Outkast (Solo) 

6. “Homesick” (Solo & Original)  

7. “Karma (Head to the Dancefloor)” (Original & Unreleased)

8. “Stolen Dance” by Milky Chance

9. “A Melancholy Song” (Original)

10. “Where Did You Sleep Last Night” by Nirvana/Led Belly

Julian Lopez on doing covers: “I like to make them my own as much as possible.”

FJStar:

“Pretty Lies” (Original)

“We Are Young” by Fun (Cover)

“My Departure” (Original)

“Runaway” (Original)

“Locked out of Heaven” by Bruno Mars (Cover)

“Creature” (Original)

“Young Nights” (Original)

Carter is the host of The Fluid Mosaiac, on air every Tuesday at 3:00