Music

Photos: Cadence Weapon at CMW

by Michael Joffe

Cadence Weapon was one of the most engaging performances that CMW had to offer this year.  When we spoke to him in Vancouver during the Olympics, Roland told us about what we can expect from his new album, out in September. He described it as “An existentialist new wave rap album” influenced by Elvis Costello and Lou Reed.  With a full band, including one half of DVAS, (Jered Stuffco) on synth, Cadence destroyed the crowd at The Garrison with new hardcore influenced dance/rap/existential tracks jumping into the crowd  to scream in our faces on several occasions. I couldn’t help but think how incredible it would be if Roland took this direction and ran with it – Cadence Weapon fronting a hardcore band. Maybe for the next album.  It was an interesting evening, one spent earlier with Neon Indian, who brought Cadence Weapon up in conversation (along with fellow Edmonton natives Shout out out out out) as artists they’re digging right now. Cadence’s show was slotted directly against Neon Indian, prompting Roland to thank the crowd for choosing him over the former.  Not a single body in the house looked disappointed with their decision.