The Many Facets of Love: Valentine's Show at The Rock Trout

Article by Sky Bear

Photos by All My Relations Photography

On February 15th, at local star venue Rock Trout, love was the theme of the scene. With multiple bands performing songs about every facet of the human experience, the night moved through the various stages of love in its many forms. From the ache and joy of community connection to the ups and downs of intimate relationships, sweet and sour, the Valentine’s lineup was ready to meet everyone where they were—with open arms and a welcoming, rustic atmosphere. This theme of connection was fully realized through the consistent collaboration of the various artists, who fused their unique sounds and personalities to deliver a warm and unique performance.

First onstage was ZHE the Free (also known as Zoe Slusar), an improvisational hip-hop artist with a masterful command of both wordplay and the thematic elements suggested by the audience—a staple of her performance and undeniable proof of her skill. Her first song opened with the line, “I’mma hit you in the heart,” spoken with well-earned confidence—and it was true. Her message of looking forward to the future is poignant and necessary, delivered so smoothly it’s as if she is speaking it into reality. The authenticity of her lyrics pairs seamlessly with her fluid rap style, offering a message of hope that honours the hurt many endure to reach it. ZHE would make several appearances on stage throughout the night, naturally collaborating with several of the bands.

Next was Little Darkness, a band with an expertise in variety. (Aurora Bella serves as lead vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist; Declan Hills on guitar; Dawson Wayne on bass; and Tony Sticks on drums.) The consistent theme of their music was an ability to instantly grab attention while maintaining a quality across each song that kept those in the crowd either moving along or utterly transfixed. From the bitterness and anger of teenage love gone wrong to a song that belongs in the CD player of a post-divorce deep-space long-haul truck driver, Little Darkness kept the vibe delightfully multifaceted while staying true to the night’s theme. Their aching, resonant songs about the throes and frustrations of love highlighted the chemistry between the artists on stage. Their unique sound was further enhanced by a red telephone used as a mic for select songs, layering in a crisp retro tone—an aesthetic complemented by the artists' vintage style clothing.

Back on stage next was Big Tones, also known as Anthony Pasqua, a First Nations rapper from Pasqua and George Gordon, bringing the second hip-hop set of the evening. Earlier in the night, he had helped set the vibes with ZHE, flowing alongside her freestyle.

Joining him was the drummer from their improv hip-hop group, H2FLO. Big Tones’ earnest lyrics stem from personal experience, illuminating facets of self-love that often go unsung—seamlessly fitting with the night’s themes. His bass-heavy instrumentals paired well with his hard-hitting lyrics, prompting many in the audience to pull out their phones to record. Amplifying the energy, Big Tones and ZHE the Free invited several volunteers onstage for an improvisational medley, making the audience part of the set and giving others a chance to shine—a theme present in his other raps, which explore the ache of loving a community that is in pain.

The headliner and finale of the night was Cupid’s Heart (Emma Jean on lead vocals and guitar, Stacey Dunn on cello, and Zachary Kerr on drums). Matching the decor of the venue and fresh off the release of their new single, Get Up (& Dance), Cupid’s Heart brought a stage presence that naturally pulled the audience to move along with the music —an energy not unnoticed by the crowd that formed, and beloved by returning fans. The soothing undertones of the cello elevated their music into a unique realm, adding a refreshing element that invigorated their alt-rock sound.

Get Up (& Dance) was met with a well-earned, enthusiastic reception—a fitting title for a track expertly crafted to provide a musical landscape that demands movement. While the studio version of the song has a crisp, polished quality, Cupid’s Heart is best experienced within the aura of their performance—upfront, onstage, and flooding the room with sound and style.