As December unfolds, the year draws to a close with a sense of reflection and anticipation for the holiday season, encapsulating the spirit of festivity and year-end sentiments. The music scene in Ottawa mirrors this celebratory mood, offering a diverse array of genres to suit every taste – rock, folk, electronic, rap, and more. Explore Ottawa’s December music calendar for a melodic journey through the year’s end. Experience the best tracks from talented artists, making this December a crescendo of musical delight, and a perfect way to cap off the year.
December 9 — Pique Winter Edition ’23 at Arts Court
Embark on an eclectic journey at Debaser’s Pique Winter Edition, as Arts Court transforms into a vibrant cultural nexus. This all-ages festival showcases 20 artists across 10 immersive stages and exhibition spaces, spotlighting underground talent from Turtle Island. The day is more than a festival; it’s a collaborative platform merging music, visual arts, and interactive experiences. Don’t miss the biannual Pique Art Market, sprawling across two floors of the Ottawa Art Gallery, boasting 30+ local artisans, indie labels, and community groups. Experience a convergence of diverse artistic expressions in a celebration of underground culture like no other!
Image courtesy of Debaser
December 10 — Tim Baker at Bronson Centre
Experience Tim Baker‘s Along the Mountain Road Tour for an intimate evening of raw songs and captivating tales. Hailing from Newfoundland’s rocky shores, Baker captures the island’s songwriting legacy. From Hey Rosetta! to his solo ventures, Baker’s accolades and magnetic presence have graced stages worldwide. Accompanied by special guest Haley Heynderickx, Baker promises an electric yet intimate atmosphere, spotlighting his powerful voice and heartfelt energy. This tour marks a shift to pared-down arrangements, offering an extraordinary view into his songwriting prowess and captivating journey.
December 14-15 — Karkwa at Minotaure
After 12 years, Karkwa, the trailblazing group that shook Quebec’s music scene, are back! From their defining album Les chemins de verre to their prestigious Polaris Prize triumph, their legacy speaks volumes. Returning in 2023 with a new album and a tour, their live performance promises an electrifying resurgence. Expect a night of raw, alternative rock, marked by daring arrangements and an immersive sonic journey.
December 15 — Jazz Dialogues: Mike Manny Trio: Toasty Tunes Under the Polar Quilt at 10,000 Hours Piano Rehearsal Studios
Step into the festive embrace of Toasty Tunes Under the Polar Quilt, an enchanting holiday musical journey with the Mike Manny Trio. Join pianist Mike Manny, Sage Reynolds on upright bass, and Scott Latham on drums for an evening filled with beloved wintry melodies and classic jazz renditions. Indulge in steaming hot chocolate, comforting apple cider, and delightful treats, while the trio’s tunes warm the chilly air. Embrace the seasonal cheer, as this concert promises to ignite your holiday joy.
December 15 — MONOWHALES, Rebelle, Stoby at Club Saw
Experience the explosive rise of MONOWHALES, reshaping Canadian alt-rock. With their groundbreaking singles like RWLYD, this JUNO award-winning band has redefined independent success. Joining them are Wakefield’s Rebelle and Ottawa’s Stoby, for a night filled with raw talent and genre-bending sounds. Don’t miss this electric fusion of musical mastery at Club Saw.
December 16 — Dave Fenley at Salle Odyssée
Prepare for an unforgettable musical journey as Texas-born Dave Fenley, lands in Gatineau. His roots in soulful melodies and harmonies began early, steeped in the Southern Baptist church. From country ballads to soul classics, Fenley’s musical odyssey embraces diverse influences. This virtuoso, discovered on En direct de l’Univers in 2022, captivates with his soul-stirring vocals and masterful guitar. Fenley wowed on America’s Got Talent and soared into the top 10 in the 15th season of The Voice. Join him for an intimate, genre-defying, acoustic showcase, blending chart-toppers and original compositions.
December 22 — Amos the Transparent: Holiday Variety Show at Club SAW
Celebrate the holidays with Amos the Transparent‘s Holiday Variety Show, a merry mix of jolly tunes and festive cheer. Dive into the festive spirit as Amos croons classic Christmas tunes, sprinkled with cheer from special guests like Jim Bryson and Mikhail Laxton. From classic carols to spirited renditions, get ready for a jingle-filled soirée that will warm your soul.
Image courtesy of Club Saw
December 30 — Funk Night: Mecca of Stank and Nitro Turtle at Rainbow Bistro
Get ready for a night of funky rhythms with Canada’s freshest bands! Mecca of Stank, renowned for blending R&B, old school hip hop, soul, funk, jazz, reggae, and Latin vibes, promise an unforgettable experience. Since 2019, they’ve enchanted audiences and received critical acclaim for hits like Dopamine Dreams. Nominated for a 2023 OMIC Capital Music Award, their latest release, Mon Aura, drops this December, aiming to elevate your musical euphoria. Ottawa’s NitroTurtle, a dynamic funk group led by Deniz Lim-Sersan, flexes between jazz, hip hop, and soul. Don’t miss this electric showcase at Rainbow Bistro!
