The Balconies’ Last Lunge at The 27 Club (photo essay)

If you’ve been following live music in Ottawa for the past ten years, it would have been difficult to not have run into The Balconies and impossible to have forgotten them. They were regulars in several of the local festivals as well as frequent performers in clubs, both as headliners and as an opening act for some international bands. They built a solid reputation as an electrifying live group that thrilled fans both old and new with each performance.

After a decade together, The Balconies chose to call it quits. Before doing so, they gave fans one more chance to see them, playing farewell shows in both their “home” cities one at The Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto and two at The 27 Club in Ottawa. We were there for the final sold-out performance on Saturday night.

After a strong opening set by another local favourite, The Love Machine, The Balconies took the stage among fans, friends, and family. The show was exactly what we have all come to expect from them. As they dove through their strongest numbers, the audience could not help but dance and sing along. Near the end of the set, guitarist/vocalist Jacquie Neville jumped into the crowd and continued to sing, simultaneously embraced by friends and family. As the band took a breather before the inevitable encore, there was a palpable change in mood. When the band returned, it was obvious that the unique nature of the night had set in. hey had to take a moment to compose themselves before continuing with the show. The Love Machine joined them on stage to help end the evening with fitting sendoff.

It may have been their Last Lunge, but if they should change their mind you know where to find us.