British Columbia indie rockers Mother Mother hit the stage at Budweiser Gardens this past Thursday February 27 in what can only be described as a triumphant return to the city of London, Ontario. The last time I covered this band in London was May of 2022 at London Music Hall, a great venue but a fraction of the size. Although not sold out, this was a much larger crowd and very enthusiastic.
Mother Mother has a passionate fan base with the band’s messages of encouragement and inclusion to those who struggle to fit in with “the norms of society.” There is a real feeling of community at their shows that gives a very uplifting atmosphere. The band, featuring siblings Ryan Guldemond (guitar/vocals) and Molly Guldemond (keyboards/vocals) has been around for 20 years and has steadily grown in popularity. This show was an amazing display of stage presence, theatre and musicianship that rivals the best out there.
Along with Jasmin Parkin (vocals/keyboards), Mike Young (bass), and Ali Siadat (drums), Mother Mother performed a whirlwind 90-minute set featuring a mix of hits, deep cuts, and new material. Opening with "Nobody Escapes" from their latest album, 2024’s *Grief Chapter*, the group played songs to satisfy every fan’s craving. Popular songs like "Arms Tonite", "Dirty Town", "Burning Pile" and of course their biggest hit "Hayloft" and the 2021 sequel "Hayloft II".
There were a couple covers, The Pixies' 'Where Is My Mind?' (a song famously featured in *Fight Club*), and Lana Del Rey’s 'Video Games', as well as a couple fan requests, 'Monkey Tree' and 'Let’s Fall in Love'. An acoustic set on the center stage thrust midway through the show was a nice feature that got fans singing along and swaying their phone lights in the air. Featured acoustic songs were "Dirty Town", "Neighbour", "Wisdom", "Ghosting", "Little Pistol", and "It’s Alright".
For an arena show, the sound was amazing, and the band was very tight. It was a very memorable performance.
Molly and Jasmin wore bright Pink and were very animated as they always are, giving a theatrical performance that really complimented the music, which sounded stunning by the way. For an arena show, the sound was amazing, and the band was very tight. It was a very memorable performance. I hope they don’t wait another three years to come back to London. I really love this band!
Opening the night were Indie rockers Winnetka Bowling League and English singer-songwriter Cavetown with energetic sets that pumped up the crowd and set the tone for the entire evening. Both bands impressed on all fronts, musically and performance-wise. It was a great night of music where the opening bands perfectly complimented the headliners, and nobody left disappointed.
Mother Mother
Cavetown
WBL
