April 14th, a warm Friday night, Vilivant kicked off her mini Canadian tour with an album release party at Toronto’s famous Rivoli’s for her debut full length album Running on Empty. The stage being played previously by the likes of Dave Grohl and Iggy Pop, Rivoli’s was the perfect place for a night of raw and loud rock n roll. The room filled with her friends, family and fans, the crowd was ecstatic for her performance.
Kicking off the night were local acts Joshanda and Drop Top Alibi. Both delivering fantastic sets, they pumped up the crowd perfectly, keeping the energy high for when Vilivant took the stage. Opening her set with “In My Life”, the opening track off her latest release, everyone cheered excitedly. The support for the band was incredible, truly being able to feel the love in the room. Playing a mix of songs off of her new album Running on Empty, older releases and a cover of The Who’s “Love, Reign o’er Me”, Vilivant kept the audience’s attention from start to finish. An impeccable stage presence and a voice that absolutely soars, the room was truly in the palm of her hands.
Catchy hooks, heavy guitar riffs, thumping drum beats and groovy bass lines backed up her tremendous vocals perfectly. Her band gave 110%, it being clear that they are truly a unit and a force to be reckoned with. Closing out the night with the title track “Running on Empty”, everyone cheered and clapped loudly, not wanting her to leave the stage. Vilivant made a room with a capacity of 240 people feel large, putting on a show with energy built for arenas. It was the perfect kick off show for the tour, and the perfect way to celebrate the release of Running on Empty, the room full of love and support all night.
