Just one day before bus service was finally restored, I was already restless and eager to get out—especially knowing that Bruce Peninsula were playing at Zaphod Beeblebrox. With the release of their debut album A Mountain Is a Mouth, this felt like a show I couldn’t miss.
Before the set, I had a chance to chat with the band, and to my surprise, they remembered me. Considering our first meeting was just a brief introduction while getting their autographs, that stuck with me.
Honestly, it’s hard to fully put into words what that February 6, 2009 show felt like—“blown away” barely scratches the surface.
The night opened with Ottawa’s own Giant Hand. Having seen him perform multiple times, it’s always great to see local talent on the bill. His set was simple yet effective, driven by strong storytelling and a relaxed presence. A solid start to the evening.
Next up was Timber Timbre, delivering a set that leaned into a haunting, melancholic atmosphere.
The surprise highlight was Jennifer Mecija (then of Ohbijou) joining in, her violin adding an emotional depth that made the performance incredibly moving. It was sombre, intimate, and at moments, genuinely tear-inducing—a beautiful set, especially for the romantics in the room.
Then came Bruce Peninsula—and things shifted into something electric.
They opened with “Steamroller,” and hearing it live was something else entirely. There’s a raw, communal energy to their performances: layered instrumentation, powerful vocal harmonies, and a kind of vintage, almost gospel-infused intensity that pulls you in completely. It’s the kind of music that makes you want to move without thinking.
Misha’s vocals were especially captivating—at times it felt like she was channeling something beyond herself. Alongside Daniela and Kari, the vocal interplay was stunning. As a whole, the band creates something that feels both deeply rooted and completely fresh.
I ended up picking up albums from both Timber Timbre and Bruce Peninsula—reviews to come.
The turnout was surprisingly strong for a Friday night, especially compared to the last time Bruce Peninsula played Ottawa. That night suffered from competing with a major show in Montreal (from a band I won’t name—but admittedly love). This time, though, the crowd showed up.
If you get the chance to see Bruce Peninsula live, take it. You won’t be disappointed.
Check out the gallery below.
