Planet Kensington is Closing

Yes, Planet Kensington, the venerable punk/rock venue and cheap drink haven is closing at the end of February.

Rumours are swirling about what the new owners of the space will do, but knowing that gentrification and niche-obsession are the current trends in Kensington Market, my hopes are not optimistic.

As before, I ask people visiting this blog who live in or near Toronto to come down and see the fabulous surf-rock outfit, the Z-Rays, as they play their last Saturday residence gig at this fine, fine establishment on February 17th. They play from 3pm to 6pm. Bring ear-plugs and money for alcohol. It can’t be anything less than boss.

I hereby raise a glass to yet another piece of Toronto’s character chipped away by weasels.

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Update: The band is only playing the 17th – there is no show on the 12th as previously noted, due to unforeseen circumstances.
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Update #2: Okay, there will be a show tomorrow (the 10th). It will not be the Z-Rays proper, but rather some sort of open jam with two of their members – which could be really fun. In any case, it’s one more chance to enjoy the venue and listen to live music on a Saturday afternoon.
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Update #3: Second show added! Aside from tomorrow, there will be two Z-Rays shows to round out the end of Planet Kensington. As mentioned, Saturday the 17th is still on – their second show will be the following Saturday (Feb 24th). The very last day PK is open will be for “Death Metal Brunch” on Sunday the 25th. Yum.
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Live in Toronto: The Z-Rays

If you live in Toronto (or are visiting) and happen to be itching for something to do on a Saturday afternoon, may I heartily recommend catching the Z-Rays. They are currently in-residence at the mighty Planet Kensington, smack dab in the middle of Kensington Market. The band is an instrumental 3-piece specialising in hard-edged surf-punk and rockabilly. A total no-brainer, considering it’s backed by cheap beer and a total lack of pretention. Good times aplenty and a great way to spend a hangover, too. No, really – go.

(p.s. – they do pronounce it zee-rays)

(p.p.s – it’s from 3pm -> 6pm…what the hell does anyone do on a Saturday during those times but drink?)

(p.p.p.s – their MySpace site is here)

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