TV on the Radio know how it's done. That is, entertaining an audience for a 90 minute set and making them feel a part of the show. And I think it's safe to say that when the lead singer is drenched front and back in his own sweat, from his seemingly unlimited energy and James Brown-esque hip shimmies, it was a damn good show.

Glasgow rockers Mogwai brought their epic, instrumental pieces to a packed Commodore Ballroom last night. Known for their guitar heavy, lengthy songs with the occasional voice distortion, the band's set featured songs from past albums and their most recent The Hawk is Howling. I have always found the band to be the perfect aid in helping me fall asleep, and in some ways their performance last night didn't change that.

Well, as promised, I'm back to offer up another rundown of the weekend's aesthetic highlights. And if you're not still recovering from last week's musical assault on the city or, like me, needing a heavy dose of solitude after a week spent re-acquainting yourself with the 'educational' life... there's a boatload of good art to be consumed over the next two days, and a variety of potentially 'enriching' ways to spend your time and money this weekend.

Theatre

• I would have loved to offer some in-depth coverage of the 2008 Fringe Festival, which runs from September 3-14, but I'm just too busy these days. If anyone would like to see their own show review published here at BR, send 'em my way. Regardless, get out there and support some of the best and ballsiest local talent in Vancouver. There's some highlights from the Straight and some previews at VancouverPlays to get you started. This city has an exciting theatre scene that shouldn't be taken for granted...

Norwegian native Sondre Lerche brought his admirable guitar plucking skills to St. James Hall amidst an all ages crowd. Presented by Timbre Productions, Lerche played hits from his first major album Faces Down, as well as some unheard material that resulted in one of the most intimate and interactive shows I have ever experienced.

In my prepubescent history of concert photography I have never once been double booked. That was until the night of Beck and The Walkmen taking their own separate stages in Vancouver. So who came out on top? The master musical synthesizer or the New York rockers?

Local band Wintermitts will be releasing their new CD, Heirloom, at a little party right smack dab in the middle of Stratchcona at 1114 East Pender. They will be playing with Hannah Georgas and her Sisters as well as Adelaide, and they'll even throw in a duo dance party DJ set for good measure.

Check out their myspace site and have a listen.

Photo by Jen Gilecki