St. Catherine's very own Dallas Green - aka City and Colour - graced a Toronto stage once again, mere months after his last back-to-back Massey Hall production. And although City and Colour hasn't recently released new material since mid-2011, the crowd was thick and electric at the Molson Canadian Amphitheatre.

Underneath what already felt like an autumn sky, Green entered solo, caught by a single spotlight as the intimate affair with his die-hard fans began. After a solo rendition of "Casey's Song," Green was joined by his band. From love-struck couples to large groups of girl friends, the audience screamed between songs and sang along to each hit. Green's storytelling prowess was captured by the setlist: each song became a chapter within the novel that was the show.

Part one consisted of a mix of old and new, playing songs "Sleeping Sickness" and his latest single "The Grand Optimist." His band - who looked dapper in suits - infused each tune with a southern twang, breathing new life into old favourites.

Part Two showcased Green's unparalleled vocal strength with a short list of solo songs, starting with his first hit "Save Your Scissors." Before playing "Body in a Box," Green asked a favour of the large crowd, requesting that each and every member of the audience first hold up their cell phones and then put them in their pockets for just one song. Wanting one song to be experienced entirely in the moment, Green instructed all those who caught someone filming to "politely tell them to fuck off. Politely."

Part Three of the concert saw the band hit the stage once again. And with much vocal involvement from the crowd, Green capped off the set with hits like "The Girl" and "Fragile Bird."

"It's a good thing I have horrible vision," Green said to the sold-out venue of fans, "because if I saw how many people were here, I'd probably freak out." As if on queue, the backlights on the stage shone over the sea of people screaming for more. "Thank you," Green finished.

Green, along with members of former band Alexisonfire, announced a final world tour which will begin in December and include two nights at Toronto's Sound Academy. And although the teenage version of myself absolutely loved the scream rock of Alexisonfire, I think Green made the right choice in focusing on his solo work with City and Colour.

Additional Photos:

Photos by Brian Morton

This Week in Film rounds up noteworthy new releases in theatres, as well as key DVD / Blu-Ray releases, festivals, and other cinema-related events happening in Toronto.

IN THEATRES

This is the final week of TIFF, so there isn't much opening in Toronto. If you want an intelligent thrill ride I suggest Inescable, if you want a hilariously raunchy romcom go see For A Good Time, Call..., and for a mindless popcorn flick you could do worse than the new installment in the neverending Resident Evil franchise.

Inescapable (Varsity)
From critically acclaimed Canadian filmmaker Ruba Nadda, Inescapable features Alexander Siddig, Joshua Jackson and Marisa Tomei, in a tense thriller about a father whose daughter disappears in Damascus, forcing him to return to the country he tried to leave behind three decades before, in order to get her back. Ruba told me the kernel of the story idea came from her father, who instead of saying "have a good trip" used to say "don't go missing--I don't want to have to come looking for you". If you didn't get a chance to see this at TIFF, you can catch it at the Varsity starting this Friday.

ALSO IN THEATRES THIS WEEK:

• For a Good Time, Call... (Yonge and Dundas)
• 
  Resident Evil: Retribution (Various Venues)

IN REP CINEMA

For recommendations on what to catch at Toronto's rep cinemas this week, check out This Week in Rep Cinema.

FILMS FESTIVALS

TIFF (September 6-16; various venues)
Yes, the Toronto International Film Festival is still on. If you haven't attended anything — whether on account of the fact that you couldn't make up your mind or simply didn't have time — you still have time to grab a few tickets. I suggest you attend at least one Midnight Madness film to get a real taste of the fest. ABC's of Death (Friday) and John Dies At The End (Saturday) are the two biggest draws. Even if tickets are sold out, you can join the rush line or buy spares from people in line.

Toronto Independent Film Festival (September 6-15; Toronto Underground)
This is your last chance to be at the Toronto Underground before it's gone for good. Go check out some low-budget indie work. Tickets are $8 per evening (including all films screened that evening). Seriously go.

Toronto VeloReel
Toronto VeloReel is a one day film festival which is working towards "cultivating community & celebrating bike culture through film." The festival premieres September 15th at 7 Fraser Ave in the historic Liberty Village, and is guest curated by The Deadly Nightshades, "Toronto's only all girl bike gang/arts collective."

DVD & BLU-RAY

6 Bullets [DVD]
Blindness [BLU-RAY]
Bridemaids [BLU-RAY]
Child's Play [BLU-RAY]
Chronos [BLU-RAY]
Five Year Engagement [DVD & BLU-RAY]
The Hand That Rocks The Cradle [BLU-RAY]
High School [DVD & BLU-RAY]
JCVD [BLU-RAY]
Jeepers Creepers [BLU-RAY]
Killer Klowns From Outer Space [BLU-RAY]
Re-Animator [BLU-RAY]
Sleepwalkers [BLU-RAY]
Titanic [BLU-RAY]

Still from Inescapable

This new Yorkville fashion spot has been open for just two weeks, and boasts a wide range of both local and international brands in women's clothing, jewellery and shoes. Representing a broad selection of looks — from glam rock, to romantic, to Western heritage —and aiming to be a fair approximation of owner Shellie Willms' dream bedroom, you can even help yourself to some high tea.

Read my profile of Pomp and Pageantry in the fashion stores section.

IT Lofts takes its incredibly inspired name from the neighbourhood in which it will soon be planted: Little Italy. At the corner of College and Rusholme, this new project will grow seven storeys tall, with retail space planned for street level and the surrounding neighbourhood serving as its main selling feature. A Worsley Urban Partners condo, this building will house units ranging in size from one bedroom to two-plus-den, with gas ranges standard (ostensibly, for that perfect el dente) and a brochure plush with pasta and tomato-related imagery. Here is a closer look at IT Lofts.

SPECS

Address: 998 College Street

Exterior: Glass, brick, cement cladding

Number of floors: 7

Number of units: 56

Unit sizes (in square feet): 570 - 1250

Ceiling height: 9.0 ft (lower floors) and 10.0 ft (upper floors)

Prices start at $300,000

Parking: $35,000 (For two-bedroom and up)

Locker: $4,500

Maintenance: $0.50/sf

Interior design: Union31

Architect: RAW Design

Amenities: Party room

Expected occupancy: November 2014

THE GOOD

IT Lofts developers have unabashedly touted the neighbourhood as the condo's main "amenity." Now, normally such statements (while usually true) still manage to send bullshit meters of prospective buyers off the rails, I stand decidedly by IT Lofts in this case. Why? Well, because Worsley et al. have really left out the superfluous and redundant amenities that drive up condo fees without adding much (that wasn't already there) to the lifestyle of its residents. There are some developers that blindly boast about their building's gym despite an Extreme Fitness just around the corner, and others that chock their condos full of yoga studios and lounges, even while the closest nearest intersection offers all of that any more.

Don't get me wrong — I can appreciate the convenience of an in-building rowing machine on those all-too-frequent lazy days, but I wouldn't want to perpetually pay for its maintenance through my fees (plus I rarely work out, but that's besides the point.) In limiting its amenities to just one multipurpose room, IT Lofts definitely has the right idea.

And really, why would you need to stuff a building with a billiards room and lounge with such great (and growing) retail right outside your door? IT Lofts has snagged an optimal neighbourhood-straddling spot, with Little Portugal to its south (which is experiencing its own evolution of late), Dufferin Grove to its north, and Little Italy by its side. Needless to say, you won't be short of options if you decide to eat out for the night (or stop for drinks before heading home). The College Streetcar right out front couldn't be more convenient, and both Dufferin and Ossington subway stations are just 15-minute walks away. In short — if you don't mind the rattle of the streetcar and/or excessive-vintage-wearing pedestrians, you'll be in a good spot.

And to add, IT Lofts deserves a hearty high-five for its actually innovative rainwater management system. (Well, maybe it's more "back to basics" than "innovative," but whatever.) In lieu of a storm-water tank, IT Lofts will be equipped with built-in planters on floors four and six to collect and control the flow of rainwater. So simple, basic, and green; good job, guys.

THE BAD

These suites are sort of like extended corridors with stoves. That means, of course, that while the living/dining/kitchen areas are swathed with light from the floor-to-ceiling windows, the bedrooms are not. No windows, in fact, for the bedrooms in the one-bedroom suites; just sliding glass doors that feebly try to create the illusion of direct natural light. Speaking of, who really wants a glass sliding panel (or worse: two!) as the door to their bedroom? While such features can likely be customized when it comes to buying time, it still doesn't leave the greatest impression.

Onto the kitchens, which get a defeated but decisive "boo" from my end. Gas stoves are a great start, but where, exactly, would one store pots and pans for said gas stoves? Nevermind dishes, glassware, and maybe a pantry staple or two? Kitchen functionality is too often forfeited in new condo projects in favor of a so-called feeling of openness, leaving nothing but an over-glossed ostentatiously red couple of cabinets, and barely a countertop on which to pour your cereal. And on that note, tune in next week for when I tell you how I really feel.

And a quick note on balconies: how about a little outdoor access for the proletariat, IT Lofts? Because if do you want anything more than a little Juliet balcony with your IT suite, you're going to pay. Not that these Juliets aren't terribly romantic looking... in a sterile glass box sort of way. But I suspect zoning bylaws played a role in this case.

THE VERDICT

Good spot, great building, awful, awful layouts.

What do you think? Would you live here? Add your comments to the thread below.

Read other posts in this series via our Toronto Condos and Lofts Pinterest board

Toronto Beer Week, now in its third year, will run from September 14th to the 22nd and will be the perfect cure for the city's collective TIFF hangover. As the international throngs depart, the city's beer drinkers can take back the city and indulge in an array of local beers at bars, pubs, and restaurants citywide. And, thanks to the fact that this year's Toronto Beer Week has been deemed an "Event of Municipal Significance," we beer drinkers will also be able to party like movie stars until 4am, albeit likely with decidedly more beards and less Ryan Gosling.

Created in 2010 by a group of like-minded publicans, beer writers, cask ale supporters, homebrewers and craft beer enthusiasts, TBW was initially launched with no sponsor investment simply to help promote the city's burgeoning craft beer movement.

Each consecutive year has seen TBW grow even larger in scale and, this year, there seems to be almost too many beer tastings, beer dinners, and pub crawls to handle. So, with a view to helping you make the most of Toronto Beer Week, here are my picks for a dozen can't miss events taking place around the city next week.

Barrel Bragging Rights
This event pairs Toronto brewers with Toronto beer writers (i.e. those that remembered to contact a brewery in time...) to collaborate on a one-off beer in a competition of 38L barrel-aged brews. The pairings for the competition include Matt Caldwell (One Beer At A Time) and Erica Graholm from Steam Whistle, Graham Duncan (NOW) and Duggan's Brewing Company, Crystal Luxmore (The Grid) and the Granite Brewery, Josh Rubin (The Toronto Star) and Black Oak Brewery, Chris Schryer (Toronto Beer Blog) and Cheshire Valley Brewing, Jordan St. John (Saint John's Wort and QMI) and Beau's All-Natural Brewery, and Michael Warner (A Year of Beer!) and Amsterdam Brewery. With all that beer-nerdery in one room, you can bet on two things: there are sure to be some good beers being poured and this event will be the best covered event of the week.
WHEN: Friday September 14th, 5:00pm
WHERE: The Monk's Table
HOW MUCH: $30, but that includes a branded glass, some food provided by the Monk's Table, and, most importantly, unlimited beer until the barrels run dry.

C'est What's 24th Annual Festival of Craft Breweries - Seasonals Saturday
One of the bars taking advantage of the extended operating hours, the array of taps at C'est What will be certainly be a go-to destination for all of Toronto Beer Week, but Saturday you'll be able to sample from an impressive forty-eight different beers including fourteen casks. Brewers featured will include Durham, Wellington, Granite, Amsterdam, Black Oak, Flying Monkeys, Neustadt, Cameron's, Church-Key, F&M, Railway City, Hogsback, Double Trouble, Steam Whistle, Beau's, Spearhead, Muskoka, Nickel Brook, Grand River, Lake Of Bays, Barley Days, Junction, Hogtown, Cheval Blanc, Gananoque, McAuslan, Cheshire Valley, and Mill Street--so yeah, a lot..
WHEN: Saturday September 15th, 5:00 pm - 3:00 am
WHERE: C'est What
HOW MUCH: Free to attend with most beers available to sample for just a buck.

The Ontario Brewmaster's Cup Awards Party
A newly-minted award created this year by four Toronto beer writers including Crystal Luxmore of The Grid, Greg Clow of Canadian Beer News, Jordan St. John of QMI/Toronto Sun, and, uh..me, we'll be crowning the best beer Ontario has to offer based on public voting. Winners have been crowned in four categories - Lagers, Pale Ales/IPAs, Stouts/Porters/Dark Ales, and Wheat/Fruit/Flavoured Beers - and we'll announce the top beer from among the four category winners - Steam Whistle Pilsner, Muskoka Mad Tom IPA,Wellington Imperial Stout, and Denison's Weissbier. Come help us celebrate with a draft selection of the 16 beers involved.
WHEN: Sunday September 16th, 5:00pm - 12:00am
WHERE: The Rhino
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

The Rock The Danforth Pub Crawl
Join Toronto Beer Week co-founder and current Great Lakes Brewery representative Troy "T-Bu" Burtch as he and Sam Corbeil of Sawdust City Brewing and Cass Enright of The Bar Towel lead a hoard of thirsty travellers across the city's east end. The tour commences at the newly-minted 417 Restaurant and Lounge then hits Brass Taps Pizza Pub, The Only Café, Morgans on the Danforth, and Sarah's Cafe and Bar. Along the way there will beprizes from Great Lakes, Sawdust, and Bar Towel and, obviously, a lot of beer drinking.
WHEN: The crawl starts at 5:45pm at 417.
WHERE: Various locations on the Danforth
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bars

Legends of Karaoke
Drinking beer needn't be all introspective imbibing and careful contemplation of hop-forward flavours and malt-backbones; sometimes you just want to get sloppy drinking cheap draft and belting out some 80s rock. The Toronto Beer Week edition of Legends of Karaoke at Sneaky Dee's will be hosted by Bear Mad Love and John Joseph Pitts, will feature over 15, 000 songs to choose from, and, sure to make your version of "Don't Stop Believin'" even better, three dollar drinks before 11pm.
WHEN: Monday September 17th, starting at 8:00pm
WHERE: Sneaky Dee's
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

Drink Great Lakes beer somewhere
On Tuesday, Great Lakes Brewery will not only be at The Only Cafe with their excellent 25th Anniversary Saison, 666: Devils Pale Ale, Crazy Canuck Pale Ale and more, they'll also be taking over 12 of the taps at C'est What, so whether you're in the east end or the south, you'll have a chance to sip a few pints from Toronto's original craft brewer.
WHEN: Tuesday September 18th, 6:00pm at The Only, 5:00pm at C'est What
WHERE: The Only and C'est What
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

Green Flash West Coast IPA comes to Ontario
Thanks to North American Craft, Ontario beer drinkers will now be able to try a great beer from our neighbours to the south. Green Flash IPA is a highly acclaimed (93 at Beeradvocate and 99 at Rate Beer) IPA from San Diego and for the first time starting Tuesday will be available here. Check out the official launch and find out why beer nerds often get so worked up about the stuff that's brewing south of the border.
WHEN: Tuesday September 18th, 6:00pm
WHERE: Burger Bar
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

Sawdust City's Mighty Moustache Competition and Tap Feature
What could be more Toronto-hipster-friendly than a moustache competition featuring beer that not too many people have heard of yet? Enter your facial hair in a contest where judges will award prizes for the "mightiest" moustache or attend simply so you can tell people you've been drinking Sawdust City's great Lone Pine IPA, Golden Beach Pale Wheat, and Gateway Kolsch since before they were popular.
WHEN: Wednesday September 19th, 8:00 pm
WHERE: The Only Café
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

Rogue Beer Dinner and Tap Takeover at beerbistro
Also on Wednesday, and occurring at a decidedly less hipster-friendly venue, the semi-upscale beerbistro will be hosting a ten-course dinner with acclaimed beer writer Stephen Beaumont to launch great Oregon brewer's Rogue Ales in Ontario.
WHEN: Wednesday September 19th, 6:00pm
WHERE: Beerbistro
HOW MUCH: $125, tickets available by calling 416-861-9872

We Live For The Funk - A Night Of Funky Brews & Funky Tunes
My pick for the can't miss event of Toronto Beer Week, the 2nd edition of barVolo's Funk Night will feature experimental beers from Ontario's best breweries to the accompaniment of loud, funky vinyl. The beer will be available in limited amounts--just one keg per funky offering and only in ¼ and ½ pint sizes, but what the event is lacking in quantity it more than makes up for in quality and selection with experimental offerings from barVolo's own house ales, Amsterdam, Indie Alehouse, Muskoka, Bellwoods and more. And with beer names like "Dead Spadina Monkey," "Plumber's Butt," "What The Christ Happened To The Pumpkin," and "Gangsters Para-Weisse," you obviously can't go wrong.

Pro tip: Bring cash. The no-plastic venue has an ATM in the basement, but you can bet it'll be lined up and you don't want to waste any quality time you could be spending with those limited quantity brews.
WHEN: Thursday September 20th, ticket holders only from 6:00pm - 8:00pm, open to the general public after that.
WHERE: BarVolo
HOW MUCH: $15 for a ticket which includes a limited edition "Funk Night" glass and one drink ticket. $5 to get in after 8pm.

The Official Toronto Beer Week 2012 Pub Crawl
Actually two competing pub crawls, the official TBW pub crawl will cover venues in the north and south and allow beer fans to try Spearhead Brewing Company's new Moroccan Brown Ale. The "north" crawl will hit Monk's Kettle, Victory Café, Smokeless Joe, and the Cloak and Dagger and the "south" crawl will visit The Rhino, The Beaver, Bier Markt on King, Bar Hop, and C'est What before both pub crawls converge on Stout Irish Pub--where I'm assuming they'll establish dominance via a dance off.
WHEN: Friday September 21, 5:45pm
WHERE: Various locations
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bars

The 10th Annual Golden Tap Awards
Close out Toronto Beer Week with an all-out celebration of Ontario craft beer presented by The Bar Towel. The Golden Tap Awards recognize Ontario's brewing achievements as voted by the beer-drinking public and you can be sure that the tenth anniversary awards gala will be a good party with a more than a few decent beers on hand. You can actually still vote for your favourites (until September 17) then come find out who won and gossip about who is drinking what.
WHEN: Saturday September 22, sampling starts at 4:00pm, awards show at 8:00pm.
WHERE: Beerbistro
HOW MUCH: Free admission, cash bar

Please note that all the dates, times, and locations listed here may be subject to change so you should confirm the details before you head out. Please also note that there are many, many other events occurring during Toronto Beer Week and I strongly encourage you to check out as many as you can. And if you need someone to go with you, feel free to give me a call.

Photos one and three by Stephen Gardiner / Toronto Beer Week

Prepare to look out toward Lake Ontario and catch a glimpse of that bright, shiny steel cladding. Nature's miracle, indeed. That might very well be the view for some concerned Harbourfront residents, who gathered for a community consultation meeting last night to discuss a proposed 68-storey residential tower for Toronto's waterfront.

And while 68 storeys might sound unbelievably tall, the first renderings of the structure-to-be at 10 York St. were actually drawn to include 75 floors. Either way, that will be one hell of a move-in day. Currently a parking lot, the building will be plopped down between Harbour Street and Lakeshore Boulevard, with York Street to its east and, ostensibly, disgruntled neighbours all around.

Last night was the third community meeting on the building, and it was clear to me that area residents are still far from warming to the idea. While several predictable concerns were aired — namely, those of area density, traffic congestion, and visual obstruction — the most alarming issue I picked up on is the possibility of a City of Toronto conflict of interest.

10 York, as the project is being called, is a Tridel initiative with Build Toronto on its back. In essence, the City of Toronto is an investor, which means the higher the building goes, the more money the City stands to make. Huh.

Councillor Adam Vaughan, who played director at the meeting, cited a $40 million figure in terms of potential profit. He called the relationship between the City and the builder an "uncomfortable" one, adding that there's "No guarantee that the $40 million will go back to relieve congestion in the area."

"My job is to get you the right building on this site," he said, in that Adam Vaughan way.

10 York, as currently planned, will house 726 units and 280 parking spots, along with a three-storey lobby at street level and a widened sidewalk right outside. No word on whether the developer has opted for quartz or granite countertops.

Toronto is rife with a taco obsession: Grand Electric, La Carnita, and countless others have thrown their hats in the ring. There's an underdog hot on their heels though, and it operates out of a small stall in Kensington Market's own home to cheap, innovative eats: 214 Augusta.

Read my review of Seven Lives in the restaurants section.

Fab Magazine introduced a brand new look last night at Red Bull 381 Projects. And, as is invariably the case when print publications celebrate a revamp, there were lots of stylish party-goers and free booze on hand.

See more photos from the party in our Style section.

That's a wrap, as they say, on another year of Festival Music House. The Mod Club, for the past three nights, hosted some of Canada's top musical acts to show our chops to TIFF's movie industry. With the Mod Club transformed into a catered event with hors d'oeuvres, a gratis bar and a half-full crowd of half-attentive suits, you know you're in for a good time. Oh, and Down With Webster tried their damndest to get everyone to dance.

Not an easy feat for any of the night's performers.

Not being able to get away from work until after 8 p.m., I missed the night's opener, Shawn Hook, the pianist and guitarist from B.C. My bad. But arriving for the start of Jason Collett, one of Canada's finest singer-songwriters, the drinks started to flow (those summer tonics, whatever they were, were bountiful and delightful). Collett, sporting shoulder length hair and a whip thin physique, played firmly to the 200 or so people in the audience.

With a new album, Reckon, dropping at the end of this month, Collett and co. tried out some of the new material, namely the dark and brooding, "Where Things Go Wrong," and the more upbeat ditty with another downturn message, "I Want to Rob a Bank," which has obvious ties to the Occupy movement. The songs are decent, especially the latter, but shit they are draining. And so another summer tonic.

And then time for a full 180. Grand Analog, a funk and hip-hop ensemble originally from Winnipeg but now calls Toronto home, has been around for the past five or so years touring with bands like Bedouin Soundclash and Shad. Fronted by the sprightly Odario Williams who was intent on getting the crowd to jive with him, wasn't impressed. Looking to the seating area, he ribbed, "You are all sitting there like this is Oscar night. This isn't Oscar night!" With some solid experimental hip-hop beats and bass lines alongside Odario's smooth flows, there were some standout jams like "Electric City" with the catchy chorus, "music makes the world go around." Then there was the frosh kids' pleaser, "I Play my Kazoo," with Odario playing an actual kazoo in the song's breakdown. Nifty.

Next up was up-and-comers Young Empires. Although they only did a crisp 30-minute set with little audience interaction, they handpicked a solid set list. With the high-reaching vocals somewhat drowned out in the beginning, the sound was ironed out for singer Matthew Vlahovich to show his chops. With ample upbeat, high-energy ditties, the audience was the most attentive during songs like the single, "White Doves" and the catchy new single "Let You Sleep Tonight." The set's highlight was during the breakdown for the closing song "Rain of Gold."

After a bit of a wait and a couple more summer tonics, because why not, Down With Webster took to the stage. Say what you want, but I'm not sure if they were the best suited to close out Festival Music House. A couple songs in and the crowd had dwindled to about 100. Slagged as Toronto's guilty pleasure, credit needs to be given where it's due and the boys from the Beaches pulled out all the stops. They played hard (a little crazed even), with Bucky and Cam Hunter flailing around the stage with gusto.

Only allotted a 45-minute set, Down With Webster has an impressive number of singles that you didn't think you knew until you hear them. Or admit to knowing them. Easily the best part of their set was when Marty, their afro-toting drummer, did a drum interlude halfway through the set to a smash-up of Mario tracks, Haddaway's "What is Love?" and Rage's "Killing in the Name."

Noticing that there was probably 100 people in the audience, Cam summed up the crowd thusly: "Girls wearing high heels and dudes in suits, it's freaking me the fuck out." As such, D-dubs decided to play "Pony" by Genuwine.

And that's when I decided to make my exit. Just after one more of those summer tonics, of course.

Photos courtesy of Rocket-It Promotions

Call it a less theatrical, Kevin O'Leary-less take on a Dragon's Den sort of setup. Four startups got their shots at a crowd of investors yesterday, assembled at the Toronto Stock Exchange for [IN]cubes Demo Day.

The scene was mostly suits and cold sweats (predominantly backstage, for the latter) as each presenter prepped to take the stage after months of incubation. Or rather, [IN]cubation? Here's a look at the four startups that made their pitches on Demo Day.

Hovr
A Pinterest addict's dream. Hovr attempts to remedy that awful Pinterest (or similar website) frustration of finding something you like, but have no idea of where to buy. As a browser add-on and mobile app, Hovr lets you "hover" over the image of a coveted item (say, a perfect little black dress), and gives you a list of comparables that can be instantly purchased online. The mobile app can also be set to send an alert when you are close to a retail store with said LBD in stock. A somewhat juxtaposed take on the impulse buy?

Event Holler
This one's for event planners, organizers, and general party people. Event Holler is an event management and ticketing system that lets planner create their event on the system for free. Connected to a network of promoters, planners can set ticket amounts and promoter commissions before, essentially, waiting for RSVPs to roll in. The organizer just pays when a ticket is sold. Event Holler has been operating in beta since July, with the average promoter reaching 885 people.

MyGoodNight
And speaking of party people, MyGoodNight is for those who want to plan a night out on their own. Still in stealth mode for now, the guide will allow users to browse honed lists of night-out-options based on the preferences they plug in. The platform will integrate information from social media, venues, promoters, publishers, artists and more, while offering the option to purchase tickets online and share the plans your night out. For those who don't mind the occasional party crasher, of course.

GameDay Interactive
Something to occupy your interest during those too-frequent sports commercial breaks. GameDay Interactive is an app that allows users to interact with broadcasters, team reps, and other viewers in real time while watching the game. Users participate in a social media quiz where they can try to predict what will happen next in the game (such, "I bet the Leafs will blow this power play") and answer questions about sponsors (oh hey there, advertisers) with the opportunity to win prizes. Participants log in via their Facebook pages.

So, what do you think? Would you give any of these burgeoning companies capital to expand?

Screengrab from the Hovr app

The photos of the week collect each of the editor-selected photos of the day into one post for a contest to be decided by our readers. Sponsored by Posterjack, the photographer whose image receives the most votes will be awarded with a voucher code for a 24"x36" poster print of their work.

All the rules and fine-print can be found in the original announcement post on the blogTO Flickr page. One thing to add, however, is that the voting period ends at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, after which the winner will be contacted with the good news.

For those photographers whose images are featured below, please feel free to give us a little information about your shot — i.e. where and when it was taken — in the comments section. Who knows? Maybe your description will sway voters in your favour!

Lead photo by Photo by DMVphotography

2.
Photo by Matthew M S

3.
Photo by Jeff Hayward

4.
Photo by yedman

5.
Photo by Ben Roffelsen

6.
Photo by tapesonthefloor

7.
Photo Neil Ta

Peter Gabriel is one of those popular singers from my youth that I never got to see live. Fast forward 25 years and he's celebrating the quarter-century anniversary of the release of his So album — the one that spawned mega-hits such as "Red Rain," "Sledgehammer," "Don't Give Up," "In Your Eyes" and "Big Time."

Gabriel kicked off Wednesday night's show at the Air Canada Centre cordially with a "Hi there," starting off with an explanation of what was to follow. "So..." he began, "sometimes the process is more interesting than the product." He then introduced an unfinished song that he performed on piano, accompanied by "my old friend, the legendary Mr. Tony Levin," on bass.

Later, they were joined by a talented band, comprised of Manu Katche on drums, David Sancious on keys, and David Rhodes on guitar, as well as a couple of female backup vocalists.

One thing I noticed immediately is the stripped-down nature of the stage design. This was no overblown Madonna spectacle of a show — just a big, white screen behind him, and two smaller screens flanking the plain black stage. The lights were at times blinding or distracting, but well-choreographed to the music.

Gabriel looks like an elderly statesman now, with his round face, trimmed grey goatee, and sipping from his mug of tea between songs. His demeanour and candour suits his 62-year-old self, but the voice is still as strong and powerful as it was 25 years ago.

"I may need a little help with the next one," he said at one point in the night, and he got it as the audience joined in with "Shock the Monkey," which was given a more laid-back, jazzed-up treatment.

After what seemed to be a band — and audience — warm-up, the real show began and we were treated to the album So in its entirety. With the first bars of "Red Rain," the crowd perked up, many rising to their feet. On came a slew of tall light structures that resembled a ballet of mechanical giraffes, controlled by black-clad men in mesh masks. These towers of light wove and bobbed about on stage, often coming within arm's reach of Gabriel, who interacted with them.

At one point, a light tower descended upon the stage, mere feet from Gabriel, its eyes feasting on him like an alien about to devour him whole.

"Don't Give Up" was one of the highlights of the show, with Jennie Abrahamson, one of the backup singers, filling in Kate Bush's vocals admirably, while hearing In Your Eyes reminded me of that famous scene with John Cusack in Say Anything.

The encore, "The Tower That Ate People," was given a literal treatment on stage: a UFO-esque lighting contraption descends from above the stage to surround Gabriel. As it touched down, an image of Gabriel looking straight up at the audience fills the screens as big swirls of light appear to beam him up. Quite an unexpected stage manoeuvre, given the fairly low-tech vibe of the show.

The night concluded with a rousing version of "Biko" with the audience singing along en masse, making for a memorable end to a two-hour-plus long night of wonderful music.

Photos by Roger Cullman Photography.

For decades it held its post across from the Windsor Arms Hotel, but now, Toronto's foremost theatre bookstore has moved south — appropriately, right by the downtown theatre district. While its new home is somewhat smaller than its last, you can count on the same vast collection of performance art resources.

Read my profile of Theatre Books in the books section.

The Danforth Music Hall is set to be revamped by owner/operator Impresario Inc. They've switched up the seating to make the Hall easily convertible from general admission (holding about 1400 people) to soft seating (a little over 1100). Could this be a sign of better things to come for the near century-old venue?

The Music Hall has seen it's fair share of trouble. In 2004 it closed down for over a year and a half, left to deteriorate almost beyond repair. It was bought up by new owners and, after massive renovations, stayed open until 2010 when it was once again shuttered on account of back rent. It then reopened this past December under new ownership, though the bookings weren't exactly as robust as the operators must have hoped for. With this new renovation, the historic theatre seems set to continue its comeback.

More renovations are rumoured to be in the works, and it should be exciting to see what comes of the changes. Bottom line: the new seating options mean much more live music is in store for this beautiful building. And yet, given their convertibility, there should still be plenty of opportunity to host events better suited to a theatre-like setting. Upcoming events include Swedish sister-act First Aid Kit, DJ Shadow and his instrumental hip hop, and a lecture by author, inventor, mad genius Ray Kurzwell on October 18th. Visit their site for more listings.

Correction notice: An earlier version of this article misstated the general admission capacity of the venue and attributed the renovation effort to Embrace Presents. This information has been updated.

Photo courtesy of Impresario Inc.

Featherstone Winery is a laid back place — you know, the type of place where you'll find chickens bouncing around in the yard and where they use the same glass for each of your tastings. Far from a failing, it's this vibe that makes the winery such a treat to visit. There's an inevitable pretentiousness associated with wine, but you won't find much of that here.

Run by David Johnson and Louise Engel, a husband and wife team who made a name for themselves as the proprietors of The Guelph Poultry Market before turning their attention to wine in the late 1990s, the winery is known for its eco-friendly approach to winemaking and its commitment to terroir-driven wines.

WHAT IT'S LIKE TO VISIT

This is one of the most scenic plots of land to be found in the in region. That's not just good for your viewing pleasure, but the undulating land makes helps with drainage and makes for better wines. The tasting area itself isn't particularly elaborate, but that's not the type of place this is in general. And, of course, you're often likely to find one of Johnson and Engel on hand to tell you about their wines.

Passionate and knowledgeable, you're more likely to chat about sustainable farming practices with them you are about the depth of the wine on the mid-palate. That's not say you couldn't have that conversation, but let's just say this is no Stratus. These are winemakers who consider themselves farmers first, which is really the way it should be.

And then there's the sheep. As they explain on their website, Featherstone employs "a small flock of sheep to eat leaves from the grapevines to enhance fruit quality by exposing the grapes to more sunlight and air circulation." They also help with fertilization ('nuff said). Come the end of the growing season, you're likely to find Featherstone lamb on the menu at the Stone Road Grille, where you can wash it down with a glass of the winery's Merlot — which your entrée helped to make!

Note well: if you arrived at the winery from the north, you'll want to head back that way as you leave. The view of Toronto from Victoria Avenue is absolutely stunning.

ABOUT THE WINE

Featherstone makes fantastic Riesling thanks in part to the age of the vines they have to work with, some of which were planted back in 1978. It's got loads of sour pear and stone notes, and no shortage of acidity. I've only tried the 2010 vintage, but I would expect that this is a consistently wonderful wine.

The Cabernet Franc is also strong here. Aged in American oak, this is an elegant wine that reveals a core of berry fruit underneath its obvious pepper notes. You could probably lay it down for a bit, but it drinks well right away, so I'd probably just enjoy it young.

Perhaps the best part about the wines at Featherstone is that they're quite reasonable. Both of the wines described above are $16.95, which is great value for something that was produced with such care.

KEY INFO

Age of winery: Purchased in 1999

Acreage: 23 acres

Oldest vines: 1978

Current yearly production: Approximately 5,000 cases

Availability: Direct from the winery, limited runs at the LCBO's Vintages department, and select restaurants in Toronto and beyond.

Price: $14-$32

MAP & DIRECTIONS

Take the QEW southwest to Exit # 57 (Victoria Avenue, Vineland). Turn south on Victoria Avenue and head about five kilometres to the winery, which will be on your right.

Photos by the author

OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS

• Vancouver franchise, Kingyo Izakaya will open its first Toronto location by December in Cabbagetown at 51B Winchester Street.
• Slider Revolution is set to soon take over the 673 Danforth space that was formerly home to the now shuttered Three's Company Catering and Cafe, and will offer gourmet sliders and a weekend brunch.
• One of Leslieville's best-loved Neapolitan-style pizza purveyors, Queen Margherita Pizza, will be opening up another location (its third, after having very recently announced a second) at 772 Dundas West this fall.
• Goody's Diner has shuttered its doors for good at 17 - 133 Manville Road.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Table d'OZ plans to showcase the best of Ossington's burgeoning dining scene when it hosts Toronto's longest communal table on Saturday, September 22nd at the lot of 109 Ossington Avenue. Proceeds go to The Stop.
• Market 707 at Scadding Court Community Centre (707 Dundas Street West) is hosting its 2nd annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, September 22nd. This family friendly, carnival style event aims to promote healthy eating and locally grown foods.
• The Brewer's Backyard returns to the Evergreen Brick Works (550 Bayview Avenue) on Sunday, September 23rd from noon to 4pm, with a celebration of local brews from new Toronto breweries: Bellwoods Brewery and Indie Alehouse.
• Tickets are available now ($25) for Gangnam Dishcrawl In Cabbagetown on Wednesday, October 10th. Though the culinary destinations have yet to be revealed, this event is billed as an evening of delicious food and a flashmob of jockey-like dancing.
• The Depanneur hosts a workshop on Monday, October 15 that will tackle Fizzie Bevvies: The Art of Home-Fermented Pop with Kate Lienweber. Reserve a space now for $47.

OTHER NEWS

• Registration is open now for the conference Foodways: Diasporic Diners, Transnational Tables, and Culinary Connections hosted by UofT at Jackman Humanities Institute (170 St. George St.) from October 4th to 6th.

Photo from Hawker Bar, which will be participating in Table D'Oz

The 2012 edition of the Manifesto Festival has landed in Toronto. In its 6th year and spanning three days, Manifesto brings together art, dance and music with a focus on youth and hip hop culture. A not-for-profit, youth-led organization celebrating Toronto's diverse arts community, the festival was founded based on a concern that there isn't enough value put on youth arts. This initiative still informs the programming today. Here are the main events on tap this year.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 21

Doin' it in The Park
Regent Park Arts & Cultural Centre, 585 Dundas Street East
The festival kicks off Friday night with an art show, The Floor Awards, Djs, food, dancers and a spoken word performance by 15-year-old Mustafa Ahmed (who's been known to make adults break down into tears and garner standing ovations). 9:00pm - 1:30am, minimum $5 donation.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 22

Fresh Arts 20 x Manifesto Summit
Ryerson University George Vari Engineering Building, 299 Church Street (at Gould)
Saturday features an afternoon of keynote speakers sharing how art has positively influenced them. Pharoahe Monch, d'bi young and Kardinal Offishall make up the panel. A second panel will discuss the shortcomings and triumphs of youth programs in our city, while the last of the day focusses on often under-discussed business side of the arts industry. Throughout the day, a number of "mentor classes" are planned, including Jully Black and Shad sharing their expertise on the art of performance. 12:30pm - 7:30pm, Free.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 23

Walk for Youth Arts
Northeast corner of Yonge and Bloor
The walk starts at Yonge and Bloor and heads at Yonge and Dundas Square where there is over 10 hours of live (free!) music in celebration and solidarity of youth arts. The walk departs Yonge and Bloor at 2:45pm, Free.

Live at the Square
Yonge & Dundas Square
Pharaohe Monch and Toronto's jazz-hip hop trio BADBADNOTGOOD team up to headline along with Nova Scotian DJ and producer Scratch Bastid and over a dozen other performers. If that isn't enough to entice you there's also a fashion show, a ton of great food vendors, workshops on everything from reiki to spoken word and a break dance battle. Runs from 12:00pm - 11:00pm, and it's all free!

For more information and scheduling times please visit the Manifesto Festival website.

Photo by Matthew McAndrew

This new Bloorcourt restaurant and bar has been open for just a few weeks, but already has its local regulars. With a menu of trendy comfort food--fish tacos, gourmet burgers, and bison pasta, among others--and a drink menu chock full of Ontario craft beers, the family-owned spot is aiming to bring new life to the area.

Read my review of Tallboys in the restaurants section.

Sometimes it really does seem like that this city is determined to wage a war on fun. The other day we got an email from Felix Kalmenson, an artist who's been running a floating exhibition and residency space in a lagoon near the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on the Toronto Islands since late June. The 8'x8' foot room didn't have a permit to operate in the lagoon, so was eventually asked to leave by the Police Marine Unit.

That, for the record, makes sense. One can only imagine the liability issues associated with something like this. And the Marine Unit did everyone a favour by forcing the space to relocate to a dock. But, where it gets interesting/frustrating is the next step. Let's give it over to Kalmenson to explain:

"The project was towed across the Toronto Harbor to a boat club called Sunfish Cut. The minute we docked at the new harbor we were met with a mixed reception. Several of the more arts-oriented residents approached with curiosity and ultimately approval, while another group was inflamed by a particularly disgruntled citizen vehemently opposed on the grounds that it was either not to their aesthetic taste or it wasn't officially a boat and might as they claim, jeopardize the dock (a dubious claim). The commodore of the boat club gave the okay for the move but now the group of disgruntled boat club members are threatening him with litigation, so he is backing out."

As a result of the static the project has received, the makeshift space is set to be evicted later today at Algonquin Island. It's not difficult to see both perspectives here. While the idea that the space would jeopardize the dock borders on ludicrous, I can understand why some boaters wouldn't want it around. Maybe they just think it's an eyesore.

But, then again, perhaps it's time to lighten up? Oh, Toronto. Stop being so damn stiff! And, more importantly, anyone want to volunteer their dock for a floating art space?

Photos courtesy of Felix Kalmenson

Weekend events in Toronto is our guide to events happening this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Here's what's happening in Toronto this September 21-23, 2012.

FESTIVAL

Word on the Street 2012
Toronto's biggest literary-themed festival hits Queen's Park this weekend to the delight of book lovers and magazine enthusiasts. Attractions this year include the Scotiabank Giller Prize Bestsellers Stage, the Toronto Book Awards Tent, and new for this year are the "Nothing but the Truth" tent (a look at Canadian non-fiction), and the Penguin Pavilion (featuring readings from Penguin authors).
Queen's Park, September 23, 2012, 11 AM, Free

Market 707 Harvest Festival
As if blogTO hasn't given you enough farmer's markets to visit throughout the city, Market 707 Harvest Festival takes place this Saturday at the Scadding Court Community Centre for the 2nd year. Food grown and produced in and around Toronto will be for sale, and activities like bulb and seedling planting will take place throughout the festival to celebrate the fall harvest. A children's play area and plenty of street food vendors will be set up (rumour has it there will even be free food). Join in on the market to thank farmers for the food they provide, and learn something new about local food.
Market 707 (707 Dundas Street West), September 22, 2012, 11AM Free

MUSIC

The Junction Music Festival
Indie music takes over the Junction this Saturday with the opening of The Junction Music Festival, which will see 20 local businesses welcome performers to entertain customers. Two main stages will be set up for over 30 indie acts such as Bruce Peninsula, Young Running, The Cedar Strippers and Philly Moves, at the intersection of Keele and Dundas, and on Pacific Avenue. There will be enough food, drink, and activities along Dundas West to keep anyone entertained throughout the day.
The Junction (2859 Dundas Street West), September 22, 2012, 11AM Free

For more music listings, check out our weekly Hot Ticket post and our September concerts post.

SPORTS & PLAY

Battle for the Boot 2012
It's like the SuperBowl on roller-skates, as the Toronto Roller Derby comes to the end of its season with the championship games taking place this Saturday at Battle for the Boot 2012. 3-time champions Gore Gore Rollergirls take on returning 2-time champs Chicks Ahoy for the winning title, so grab a seat in the suicide seating area and watch the ladies go after one another on the derby track. There will food by La Mexicana and Coconut Bliss Ice Cream, as well as a 50/50 draw to benefit the Daily Bread Food Bank at this ultimate battle of the babes.
Downsview Park (40 Carl Hall Road, Studio 3), September 22, 2012, 6:30PM $12 advance, $18 at the door

Tweed Ride Toronto 2012
Cycle in style at the Toronto edition of Tweed Ride, a group bicycle ride through the downtown core, in which riders are encouraged to wear tweed and other smart, classic apparel to recreate the feel of a bygone era. This international event arrives in Toronto, taking off from Trinity Bellwoods Park at 3PM, to raise money for Bikes Without Borders, a Toronto non-profit that uses bikes as tools for development in underprivileged areas of the city. Get silly, grab your monocle and tweed elbow-patched jacket, and ride along with the group. High tea and a big band dance party are included!
Trinity Bellwoods Park, September 22, 2012, 3PM Pre-register online for $25

ART

Northern Touch
Norman Felix Gallery hosts an exhibit of prolific street and graffiti artists and their protégés at the opening of Northern Touch this Saturday at the Queen West gallery. Bringing a touch of formality to street art in a gallery-style exhibition, Northern Touch will feature the works of Phresha, Roadsworth, Mediah, and well-known Toronto artist Elicser. Food from Rose and Sons and The Cheese Boutique will be available and DJ jojoflores will spin at the event. Legitimize street and graffiti art by showing support in attending.
Norman Felix Gallery (627 Queen Street West), September 22-30, 2012, 7PM

Sunnyside Beach Juried Art Show & Sale
The historic Sunnyside Pavilion marks the return of the Sunnyside Beach Juried Art Show and Sale for the 5th annual year with 3 days of art from over 80 artists of all disciplines. Drop-in workshops, a large-scale public art piece and silent auction will all take place throughout the weekend while artists and experts like Scott Everingham, Powell MacDougall, and Anna & John Romanov--otherwise known as the jury--pick the prize-winning artists. Admission is free and the event happens rain or shine.
Sunnyside Pavilion (1755 Lake Shore Boulevard West), September 21-23, 2012, 2PM Free

Art Fusion
An art party set in a 2000-square-foot warehouse, Art Fusion is a melding of all art forms, open to anyone who wants to perform. Musicians are invited to bring their own instruments if they'd like to perform (a drum kit, mics and PA system are readily available), and it's free to showcase any visual arts. Local circus acts and dancers are slated to perform and, best of all, there are no cover charges or fees. Come down for a drink and hang out at The Foundery with hundreds of art-makers doing their thing this Saturday night.
The Foundery (376 Bathurst Street), September 22, 2012, 8PM Free

FASHION

The Couturier of Shoes: Roger Vivier at Dior, 1953-1963
Ryerson University's Fashion Styling Professor Iris Simpson lectures on the career of French shoe designer Roger Vivier (the man best known for creating the stiletto heel) this Sunday afternoon at the Bata Shoe Museum. As part of the Vivier Lecture Series, Simpson, who has worked in buying and styling for over 30 years in Canadian fashion, will discuss Vivier's time at Dior, his work with YSL, and his early start working in a shoe factory. An interesting examination of the history of the high heel and shoe design, this lecture will interest even those who have little fashion knowledge. Ticket price includes admission to the museum.
Bata Shoe Museum (327 Bloor Street West), September 23, 2012, 1PM $16

Dundas West Sidewalk Sale
Dundas West has always had a small community feel but the folks at the Little Portugal BIA want to bring everyone in the neighbourhood closer with the Dundas West Sidewalk Sale. Participating stores, cafés and restaurants, including Magwood, Dalston Grey, The Garrison and OMG Bakery, will spill out on to the streets, offering special discounts for the day. The event happens rain or shine between Lansdowne and Shaw from 10-6. Hit the pavement!
Dundas Street West (between Lansdowne and Shaw), September 22, 2012, 10AM Free

For more fashion events, check out our This Week in Fashion post.

FOOD

Toronto Girls' Cupcake Ride
A ride just for the ladies, the Toronto Girls' Cupcake Ride is a free cycle event that takes riders through the city to taste cupcake goods from some of its best bakeries. Beginning at Bloor West's Sweet Flour and riding to the Evergreen Brick Works, the ride will sample cupcakes and cookies of various establishments without the stress of how to burn off the calories later. This is the last ride of the season and the rules and guidelines of the ride are posted on the Cupcake Ride website.
Sweet Flour (2352 Bloor Street West), September 22, 2012, 11:30AM

For more food events and news, check out our This Week in Food post.

FILM

Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Sometimes patience pays off and sometimes it just gets you a free outdoor film screening. The Georgetown South Project along with the Liberty Village Residents' Association and construction company Ellis Don are sponsoring a free screening of Ferris Bueller's Day Off in Liberty Park this Friday to thank the community for their patience during a lengthy construction project. In addition to the screening, free drinks and snacks will be handed out to moviegoers for an ultimate movie-watching experience. Grab a blanket or chair, take a day off from the construction noise, and take advantage of having your patience and understanding bought--a move that Ferris would appreciate.
Liberty Park (70 East Liberty Street), September 21, 2012, 7:30PM Free

For more film listings, check out our This Week in Film and This Week in Rep Cinema posts.

COMEDY

Carla Collins
Canadian comedienne and reality TV star Carla Collins gets back into the ring, performing stand-up over two nights this weekend at the east end's Flying Beaver Pubaret. Collins, who many will remember from Entertainment Now (the eTalk of yesteryear), brings her self-deprecating jokes about botox, fake boobs, and promiscuity to the comedy pub this Friday and Saturday. Tickets can be purchased through Brown Paper Tickets or on the Flying Beaver's website.
The Flying Beaver Pubaret (488 Parliament Street), September 21-22, 2012, 9PM $20 advance, $25 at the door

For more comedy listings, check out our This Week in Comedy post.

THEATRE

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
Renowned contemporary playwright Tom Stoppard's absurdist theatrical piece Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead opens this Friday, serving as director Matt Gorman's debut piece at Hart House Theatre. Stoppard's famous tale about two minor Shakespearean characters centers on the confusion of the two men as the events of Hamlet unfold around them. Tickets are available through the U of T Box Office; the show ends October 6th.
Hart House Theatre (7 Hart House Circle), September 21-October 6, 2012, 8PM $25 adult, $15 student/senior

For more theatre listings, check out our This Week in Theatre post.

Have an event you'd like to plug? Submit your own listing to the blogTO Toronto events calendar or contact us directly.

For Toronto movie showtimes, view our Movie Listings section.

Photos by krygene, Georgie_grrl, Noah Markus in the blogTO Flickr pool