Public Records – Aidan Knight
Turning onto Commercial exposed small groups of youths wearing skinny jeans, large rimmed glasses and plaid, lots of it. Even without the large Rio Theatre sign, it was clear I had arrived at my destination. Nearing the end of his Western Canadian tour, Aidan Knight and his band mates played to a sea of adoring fans that know all too well, the talent and charm of Victoria’s own hometown boy wonder.
The darkened theatre was packed. Stragglers shifted through the back doors during opener Leif Vollebekk’s set searching for anything, but found only standing room. As the red velvet curtains were pulled back and the lights dimmed, everyone went silent. This audience was respectful, polite and excited.
A short film played over the instrumental opening. As the band slunk onstage, the audience erupted into cheers and whistles. Knight and his band came out swinging, playing the songs better than the recorded versions.
