By: Lynn Muscat
March 09, 2009

Four Toronto indie alternative rock bands took over the Phoenix Concert Theatre February 19 and performed the first of a series of concerts entitled Silenced. Each of the concerts in the series will take on a different music genre, the first being rock. Captive Groves set this tone for the night, as they were the first to hit the stage. Their set evolved from the soothing accompaniment of a bongo, sitar and tambourine melody to hard, raw rock reminiscent of the early 90’s, laden with screaming guitar riffs.

The series is organized by MSR Events Solutions Production to bring awareness to the rise of youth violence in Canada and to benefit organizations that aid in supporting the cause. Amidst a mid-February snowstorm and recession blues, Thursday’s kick-off event was quietly attended, but the message and the music were loud and clear.

The Sixes and Sevens came to stage next, providing some useful tips on how to keep youth out of troubling situations. "Know where your child is at all times," advised guitarist Mike McAven before the band unleashed their head-thrashing, progressive metal set. Just as I was questioning the choice in such violent music for the benefit, the band assured the audience they were not violent in any other areas of their life, only with their instruments. In that case, rock on!

Next up was self-described rocker chick, Basia Lyjak. With four men supporting her on stage, Lyjak rocked hard and sexy, covering mostly new material including her soon to be released single "Don’t Talk." Only because she brought it up herself, would one be aware that Lyjak had been away from the stage for four months. She was obviously in her element and performed without hesitation or unease.

Capping the night with incredible stage presence and much easier listening than their predecessors was the headliner, Monday Rose. Lead singer Ari Lyon serenaded the audience with his soothing voice and poetic lyrics while affectionately mingling with his band mates. For only being together a year, Monday Rose’s smooth groove session was impressive and provided a calming way to end the night.

Proceeds from the night went to the Herbert H. Carnegie Future Aces Foundation and Urban Non-violent Initiatives Through Youth (UNITY). The genres of the following shows have yet to be announced. The Silenced series is a great way to check out local indie music while supporting a cause that deserves attention and care. Check out www.silencedevents.com for the next upcoming concert.