By: Sheena Lyonnais
March 08, 2010

Digits debut Hold It Close was released in October of 2009, but it unfortunately didn’t make it on to my radar until earlier this year.  It has since served as a soundtrack to some gorgeously hazy evenings and it’s no secret his infectious electro indie pop may soon bleed into yours.

The man known as Alt Altman also plays trumpet and guitar for the Ghost is Dancing and sings and plays bass and synths for Europe In Colour, so it’s no surprise his solo project is a danceable, moveable concoction with a not-so-subtle influence of the Cure.  Altman tells us why we should start this Thursday off by catching his set at the Drake.   

How are you doing and where are you right now?

Coming off a month-long cold, but glad to see the sun shining.  I'm in my apartment in Toronto, plotting.

There are a lot of bands playing CMW, why should I watch yours?

I play a combination of indie pop and electronic music, something there's not too much of at this year's festival. So if you're into dancey electronic acts with soft vocals like Hot Chip, Junior Boys or The Whitest Boy Alive, you'll probably enjoy my set.

What are you doing to prepare for CMW?

Practicing a lot.  I'm also learning to play a cover of a Canadian artist. Checking out all the groups that will be in town so I can find good shows to attend. Drinking lots of smoothies.

What are you hoping to get out of the festival?

I'm hoping to see lots of great shows, there's a lot of talent at the festival. Hopefully make some good connections, learn some things about the industry, and generally have a good time.

Tell me a tour story that is crazy but true.

This one time, I booked my first out-of-town show, in Hamilton, on March 20. True story. Thus far, I have walked to every gig I've played.

What are you/your band working on at the moment?

I'm working on a couple of remixes, which are always a lot of fun. I'm also working on a new single, which hopefully I'll put out this spring. I've got a second album in the works too, but since I don't have to record in a studio I can do it over a long period of time, so I'm in no rush to finish it. It's going to be called Death and Desire, and it will examine these themes as they play out on the dance floor.

Any last parting words for us music-hungry Toronto folk?

Take advantage of this festival! There's a lot of great local talent that are getting the spotlight on them this week, and it's a perfect opportunity to see all the amazing music being made in this city.

Digits CMW Showcase:

Thursday March 11, 2010 @ 8:00PM

Drake Underground, 1150 Queen St. West 416-531-5042


19+ All wristbands accepted

For more information on Digits, check out: digitsmusic.com