Hotel Mira, a Canadian band with LA influence, have a unique but familiar sound, playing with classic features of popular 2000’s indie rock and twisting in fresher pop elements. The formula is perfect to get you on your feet and dancing – which is all the more fun alongside the eccentric and electric performance of the band’s lead singer Charlie Kerr.
Kerr has the sheer suave and sensuality of iconic 80’s and 90’s performers, and he seems to entice the crowd closer and closer; swaying his hips, jumping off stage, and at one point, gripping onto the ceiling banister and hoisting himself up until his feet are also touching the ceiling. You might be thinking, That sounds a bit much, but I am not ashamed to admit I was hooting and hollering along with the rest of the crowd.
Their new single “Waste Away” was lyrically deep but musically fun, and I especially enjoyed the evolution of their sound from some of their older tracks. Even though most eyes were focused on Kerr, Mike Noble (bass) and Clark Grieve (guitar and keyboard) gave a high-energy performance and added great backing vocals that elevated the set above your standard performance – as well as excellent execution from Cole George on drums.
The Hotel Mira sound definitely caters to English listeners who are a fan of The Wombats, The Maccabees, Black Honey, and in general indie rock/pop. Overall, a great show delivered with power, polish, and a lot of see-through lace shirts. I recommend giving them a listen – and to use a classic Canadian phrase, to fill yer boots.