NEEDTOBREATHE @ RBC Echo Beach

Photos and words by Anthony Smith.

​Fresh into their Forever On Your Side tour, Needtobreathe reached one of the most scenic stages in Toronto, the RBC Echo Beach. Its easy to see why they have cemented a position as one of South Carolinas greatest rock exports. Bear with his snarly vocals and his brother Bo running around exploring the edges of the stage - the whole stage immediately screams confidence. Bear made sure everyone was having a Great Night by climbing into the audience and running a lap without losing his iconic hat.

The stage was set up with thin pillars of lights like a neon forest the band could run up and through for their more upbeat numbers – which was a generous chunk of the set! Covering the Elvis Presley hit Bossa Nova Baby the stage suddenly transformed into a psychedelic wonderland. Magically rising from the rear of the stage on a platform, Bear serenaded Toronto in a disco ball jacket with Difference Maker, while mimicking the CN Tower off in the distance behind him.

A short Sigur Ros interval and the forest stage became a campfire sitting under the stars for a few acoustic numbers. Joining them on stage for Forever On Your Side was the excellent tour support Johnnyswim who were greeted with a very warm welcome after winning over the crowd with their spectacular opening set.
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Needtobreathe provided Toronto with a very memorable night and its clear they are always welcome to visit again.