And it begins. The countdown is over and festival withdrawal will be coming to an end (for now). TURF may start on Friday, but the Bonus Concert Series is well underway. Starting yesterday, Lee’s Palace and The Horseshoe opened their doors to the artists of the festival and more importantly the ever-patient music lovers. And quite frankly, it was a big night. While I spent my night fawning over The Fratellis, I couldn’t leave you high and dry without an inside peak at the club shows.

Over at the Horseshoe, Grand Analog shared the stage with Cold Specks. The meld of hip-hop and R&B produced by the five-member set-up fronted by Odario Williams, will be hitting the stage on opening day. Their energy and smooth beats make them a must see.

At Lee’s Palace, six guys from Winnipeg came, played and reminded everyone once again that there is talent in the prairies. Royal Canoe gave a little taste of the energy to be seen at their upcoming set on Saturday, when they’ll be playing the South Stage along with other noteworthy acts like Choir! Choir! Choir!

Previewing their set, Toronto-based, HIGHS, gave their city a show to remember.

The indie rock band will adding TURF to the growing list of festivals they’ve played including Wayhome, Canadian Music Week and NXNE. The band is gaining more and more recognition with their self-titled EP, released back in 2013, that keeps drawing fans in.

Tomorrow night, SATE plays The Horseshoe while Catl will be tearing down Lee’s Palace.

Grand Analog Photos shot by DGMT Photography 
HIGHS and Royal Canoe by Anthea Thomas