[Feature] Events You Don’t Want To Miss (January 2014)

It’s the first month of the new year and that means more artists, more venues, and more concerts. As we venture into 2014, January continues to be promising for concertgoers and fans alike. With so much happening, it can be a daunting task to know which concerts to actually attend. Luckily, we’ve compiled yet another list for your pleasure. Check out our feature article on Events You Don’t Want To Miss (January 2014).

1. The Antiheroes with T.Y. and guests
(Thursday January 16, 2014 @ Rancho Relaxo, Toronto)

Last year was an excellent year for Toronto duo, The Antiheroes. Comprised of Flex and Sha Prince, they released their full length LP, Modern Day Riot in March of 2013. Sha Prince also dropped his solo mixtape, Latex & Perfume, while we await Flex’s new project, SALEM, scheduled to release this month. These two are some of the hardest working artists today and their catalogue of great songs further proves that.

Why you should go: Not only are The Antiheroes excellent live, they possess a chemistry between them, resulting in energetic performances in which fans can truly enjoy.

2. THE REUNION TOUR w/ Derek Christoff [d-sisive | SHIT!] + Adam Bomb
(Friday January 17, 2014 @ This Ain’t Hollywood, Hamilton)

When word spread that Juno award nominee D-Sisive and Muneshine called it quits on Hip-Hop a lot of hearts were broken. Although, they are no more, they will be performing for a special reunion tour. Late last year, D-Sisive released the third instalment in his Jonestown series, Jonestown 3: The Dream Is Over and also delivered the nine-track Raging Bull EP with Tone Mason. He will also be joined by Adam Bomb who belongs to hip-hop collectives Freedom Writers as well as Natural Born Strangers.

Why you should go: If you’re a fan of Derek Christoff aka D-Sisive this is a show worth attending. Given the circumstances regarding the future of his music, an opportunity to see him live may not arise for quite some time. Plus, it’s only $10.00 at the door – a small price to pay for a performance such as this.

3. Two Crown King (Farewell) w/ My Son The Hurricane, Stereokid, Afos
(Saturday January 18, 2014 @ London Music Hall, London, ON)

Two Crown King will perform as a band for one last time at the London Music Hall in London. TCK will finally say goodbye after spending the last 5 years together. Make sure to check them out live in concert alongside My Son The Hurricane, StereoKid and A-Fos.

Why you should go: If you’re a fan of Two Crown King, attending their last show as a collective would be an excellent way of showing your appreciation towards the group after all they’ve accomplished together.

4. SmashMouth Entertainment & Get Fresh Co. Present Yxung Toronto Lxrds Cipher
(Saturday January 18, 2014 @ Proper Reserve, Toronto)

Smashmouth Entertainment has consistently been building their roster of emcees as they’ll be showcasing the talent and potential of Toronto artists for the upcoming Yxng Toronto Lxrds Cipher. The event will feature DillanPonders, Jimmy B, SeT, Raheem, Terrell Morris, Tray, X.Zavier, Devontee and more.

Why you should go: While we all enjoy the traditional concert, it’s always nice to switch things up. That’s exactly what will be happening on this night as these artists will be participating in a cipher/freestyle rap event.

5. J.Cole “What Dreams May Come” Tour
(Wednesday January 22, 2014 @ London Music Hall, London, ON)

In 2013, Cole visited Toronto on three separate occasions. However, that still wasn’t enough to keep fans satisfied. Now, you’ll have another chance to see the Born Sinner as he makes his way to London, ON. Following the overwhelming demand to see Cole live, the Roc Nation artist added 10 additional dates to his “What Dreams May Come” tour.

Why you should go: Not only will fans be treated to classic material, they’ll also have the chance to witness Cole perform new material as well. Let’s hope you’ve already purchased your tickets!

6. Jay Z “Magna Carter World Tour”
(Monday January 27, 2013 @ Air Canada Centre 40 Bay St, Toronto)

F*Ckwithmeyouknowigotit could be one way of saying that the 40+ year old, does indeed still have what it takes to release a quality, full-length LP in 2013. In a commercial during game 5 of the 2013 NBA Finals, Jay announced he would be releasing his twelfth studio album. The album would go on to sell a million copies before it even became available to the public. Hov recently took the time and ranked Magna Carta… Holy Grail as his 6th most favourite album in his discography. Strong rhymes paired with an all-star lineup of production resulted in another enjoyable album from Jay Z.

Why you should go: It’s been three years since Jigga last performed at the Air Canada Centre for his Watch The Throne Tour alongside Kanye West. You can expect new and old songs to be performed as well as an atmosphere like no other. Who knows, he may even bring Drake out to perform “Pound Cake.”

7. Legends League Presents Naturally Born Strangers Pop-Up Shop + Concert
(Friday January 31, 2014 @ Virgin Mobile Mod Club, Toronto)

Naturally Born Strangers is a collective made up of Rich Kidd, Tona, and Adam Bomb. The mixtape was recently released as the audio component in collaboration with Toronto clothing brand, The Legends League. The trio will make their way to the Virgin Mobile Mod Club in Toronto for a special performance and pop-up shop as well.

Why you should go: Entirely produced by Rich Kidd, NBS highlights each artists’ different strengths and rhyming schemes, resulting in one of the best projects released last year. There will also be some cool gear available for purchase to those who may be interested.

8. Dom Kennedy “Get Home Safely” Tour
(Friday January 31, 2014 @ The Hoxton, Toronto)

West Coast rapper Dom Kennedy delivered his second studio album, Get Home Safely back in October of 2013. DOM has been a prominent force in the underground rap scene for quite some time. Now, after many years, he’ll finally be making his long overdue appearance in Toronto in support of the LP.

Why you should go: DOM has continued to show growth throughout his career, all while maintaining a humble attitude along the way. He’ll also be joined by his close friend, Skeme – another West Coast rapper who also had a breakout year in 2013.

9. Shad
(Friday January 31, 2014 @ Danforth Music Hall, Toronto)

In 2013, Canadian hip hop artist Shad had another incredible year. He released his fourth studio album, Flying Colours and also went on a Canadian tour in support of the LP. The London, ON native will return to Toronto this month to do what he does best – put on a great show.

Why you should go: As Shad continues to make our lists time after time, it’s self explanatory as to why you should attend. Shad will also be joined by special guest Brother Ali. Come support Shad at the Toronto’s Danforth Music Hall, a follow up to his sold out show at the Opera House.

Let us know which event(s) you’ll be attending in the comments section and tell us if there are any others we may have missed!