Ten days in Québec as an Italian now living in Belfast, and the locals have already drilled one absolute truth into my head: Groovy Aardvark is a total institution here.
The crowd was an interesting mix, ranging from a few grey-haired veterans to younger people in their twenties. At one point, I asked for a rolling paper from a guy who looked like a biker, completely decked out in heavy leather. He clapped back, joking that he was surprised and that I was totally profiling him—only to laugh and kindly hand me one.
Closing out the after-party at the Télé-Québec stage, Groovy took a moment to wave to a few familiar faces in the audience before delivering a powerhouse final performance. Every instrument cut through the mix with crisp, potent clarity. The lead singer, Vincent Peake ’s raw, growling vocals channeled a cathartic rage.
He commanded the crowd effortlessly, even taking a heartwarming moment to thank a long-time fan for 40 years of loyal support. Peake said that this was his second set of the night, giving a playful excuse for his tired vocals—and perhaps for the man with a bandana singing backups while half-hidden in the shadows.
Special mention to the cover song « Le p’tit bonheur » , leaving the already hypnotized crowd completely spellbound.
Photo: Max Beaulieu
