“Did someone say, ‘Eh?’  We don’t all talk like that in Canada. . .Damn Americans.”  Silveira takes a humorous jab at the audience just as they begin to play.  The Toronto-based band wasted no time stirring up the energy of the Belly Up crowd.  With a definitive garage sound, a rebellious look, and a smug punk attitude, it was only obvious what kind music they played.  As if Joan Jett, Annie Lennox, and members of L7 decided to have a street fight with post-No Doubt Gwen Stefani, they’d be listening to The Cliks while beating the hell out of her. 

Lucas Silveira takes lead on vocals and guitar, and engages with the audience several times throughout the performance.  Although he’s all smiles while addressing the crowd, it’s all business as soon as the band goes into play.  His vocal stylings are brash and rough in the most melodic way accompanied with a tinge of surf rock riffs and power chords.  Rounding out the rest of the band is Morgan Doctor providing the steady, heavy beat and Jen Benton showing to be one of the most animated bassist I’ve seen in a while.  Most of their set stemmed from their last release Snakehouse and their upcoming CD in June, Dirty King.  Songs like “Oh Yeah” and “Complicated” were familiar favorites while “Love Gun,” “Haunted,” and the anticipated “Dirty King” made an awesome, memorable impression. 

Underestimated and underrated, The Cliks show audiences what real live music used to be about—just fucking rock out.  Enough of the politically and socially conscious benefit shows, no more of the lame-ass, underwhelming supergroup concerts, and for the love of Judas, no more tours based on skanky, herpes-driven reality shows (sorry, I can’t watch “Rock of Love” without itching).  Just rock out.  And that’s what The Cliks did.  My only beef is that I have not seen them play in the US as much.  Personal note to The Cliks: Put down your hockey sticks, stop watching reruns of Kids in the Hall and play more in the US—Damn Canadians.  Right back at you Silveira!