British Food and Music Shine at Tokyo Embassy

The British Embassy in Tokyo came alive on June 12 with the sounds, scents, and flavors of the United Kingdom at British Beats and Bites – A Celebration of UK Food, Drink and Culture. The event brought together diplomats, entrepreneurs, creatives, and media for an immersive cultural experience centered on the UK's evolving identity as a food and music powerhouse.
Hosted in the elegant setting of the British Ambassador's residence, the evening showcased everything from classic British cuisine to artisanal drinks. It culminated in a Britpop-infused DJ set by none other than Alex James, the former bassist of Blur and now an ambassador for British food and drink.
Opening the evening was Emil Levendoglu, Minister and Deputy Head of Mission, who welcomed guests with warmth and humor. "It's a great pleasure to be welcoming you to a celebration of British food, drink, creativity — and, it turns out, cocktails," he said.
Levendoglu described the modern British food scene as "bold, diverse, and globally inspired," noting how it has been shaped by the many cultures that make up contemporary Britain. "From Michelin-starred restaurants to buzzing food markets, our chefs and producers are constantly blending tradition with new ideas," he said, drawing a parallel with Japan's own culinary culture.
Beyond food, Levendoglu emphasized the strong cultural ties between the UK and Japan. "This evening is also about the deep and enduring friendship between the UK and Japan, and the cultural ties that bind us together. Not just in food, but also in music, art, and creativity."
Those cultural ties came to to life with the presence of Alex James, a man who embodies the crossover between British music and British food. Introduced by Levendoglu as "a very special guest" and "a passionate advocate for British food and drink," James brought not only nostalgia for his days in Blur but a sense of fun and reinvention. Blur bassist Alex James (©JAPAN Forward)
Before his DJ set, James offered a heartfelt toast. "I really am delighted to be in Japan again with my family," he said. "And this time I'm not here as a musician — I'm here as a champion of UK food and drink."
He went on to share how meaningful it was to see Japanese guests trying his own product, Brittle Pop, for the first time. "Hopefully, we've managed to get people thinking differently and created some new fans of UK food and drink."
The crowd greeted the toast, "To the UK, and to Japan, and to food, and to drink, and to music," with a resounding "Kanpai!"
Guests were treated to passed canapés like cold-smoked Scottish salmon on buttered toast, vol-au-vents filled with mushrooms, and bite-sized omelettes made with organic vegetables. Heartier fare included a shepherd's pie station, chicken curry, and roast beef served with ratatouille and gravy. Each dish offered a distinct window into the culinary identity of the UK.
The sushi station, featuring kappamaki (thin sushi roll filled with cucumber) and tuna rolls, was a nod to the host country while underscoring the cross-cultural spirit of the evening. For cheese lovers, a curated selection featuring Wales' creamy Perl Las and England's Shropshire Blue, vintage cheddar, and Rutland Red added a tangy punch to the tasting experience. British cuisine at British Beats and Bites (©JAPAN Forward)
Drinks reflected the diversity of the UK's four nations, with a showcase of gins and whiskies from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Signature cocktails made with spirits from all four nations added flair to the evening, while Belvoir soft drinks provided a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
Desserts, including whisky-infused chocolate squares, blueberry custard tarts, and raspberry macarons, were passed around as the party reached its peak. To end on a sweet note, guests were gifted Ben's Cookies, while the afternoon tea photo booth, set with Wedgwood ceramics, offered a playful tribute to a timeless British tradition.
Adding another layer of momentum to the evening, Rupert Daniels, Director of Services for the UK's Department of Business and Trade, likened the event to a band's tour. Tokyo, he said, was just the first stop before the team traveled to Osaka for a showcase at the UK Pavilion at Expo 2025.
"You're really lucky — you're seeing the first night of the band on tour," he said.
Daniels, who first came to Japan during the 2002 World Cup, spoke fondly of the shared passions that unite both countries. "The two things that brought everyone together, particularly from the UK and our wonderful Japanese hosts, were music, food, and drink, which is exactly what we're celebrating tonight."
He also urged guests to explore and interact with the variety of UK producers represented at the event. "There are 15 or 16 different producers here tonight — from sparkling wine to whisky to wonderful confectionery. Go talk to someone you've never met before. Try something new. Let's keep this cultural interchange going strong." Bar at British Beats and Bites (©JAPAN Forward)
While the event had all the hallmarks of successful public diplomacy, soft power through food, cultural nostalgia, and personal storytelling, it was ultimately about connection. It celebrated the human dimension of trade, creativity, and shared tastes.
From signature dishes to sampling stations, from Britpop classics echoing across embassy halls to toasts of sparkling Brittle Pop, British Beats and Bites was more than a showcase — it was a shared table.
As the evening continued under Tokyo's early summer skies, with glasses clinking and voices mingling, one thing was clear. The bonds between the UK and Japan are as much about what's on the plates, or in the speakers, as they are about politics or policy.
Author: Daniel Manning

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Hong Kong food tour is a window to Chinese food in Vancouver

Mia Stainsby goes on a food tour with Humid with Chance of Fishballs with founder Virginia Chan trying uniquely Hong Kong dishes. Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, has been making soy products since 1803. Photo by Gavin Wilson Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. In the Vancouver area, cha chaan tengs, or uniquely Hong Kong cafés, are potent nostalgia to former Hong Kongers. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Exclusive articles by top sports columnists Patrick Johnston, Ben Kuzma, J.J. Abrams and others. Plus, Canucks Report, Sports and Headline News newsletters and events. Unlimited online access to The Province and 15 news sites with one account. The Province ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on. Daily puzzles and comics, including the New York Times Crossword. Support local journalism. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Locally, I'm talking the likes of New Town Bakery and Restaurant, Ho Yuen Cafe, The Boss Bakery and Restaurant in Vancouver, and the Lido, Cha Don, Cha Kee, and 852 Kitchen in Richmond. At cha chaan tengs, British colonialism insinuated its way into Hong Kong-meets-west dishes like eggs and toast, macaroni soup with ham, French toast, egg sandwiches, pork chops and rice, along with more Asian dishes like satay beef noodles. And always, always, egg tarts, pineapple buns, milk tea with condensed milk, and yuen yueng (a mix of coffee, tea, milk, sugar). The cuisine has been named a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. 'It's what I think the epitome of Hong Kong food is,' said Virginia Chan, a food tour operator in Hong Kong. 'The Cantonese food we eat, like dim sum and Chinese barbecued meats, is from the Canton, or Guangdong, region in China. But the food you find at a cha chaan teng is iconic and unique to Hong Kong. It was invented here. It's influenced by the British but they wouldn't recognize it to be their own. It's ours. We made it our own. Classics like macaroni in soup, egg tarts and French toast, pineapple buns, milk tea — all invented in Hong Kong.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Virginia Chan, a Vancouver ex-pat and founder of Humid with a Chance of Fishballs food tours. Photo by Virginia Chan I love to go on food tours on my travels. And in Hong Kong, it was with Chan, a Vancouver expat and founder of Humid with a Chance of Fishballs food tours. The quirky name riffs on Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs — the multiplatform franchise about a kid and a machine that turns water into food storms. Chan is a machine herself, breathlessly leading us to some iconic foods, elucidating on their whys and wherefores. Cha chaan tengs, Chan says, began as tea houses. 'People loved to have what they called afternoon tea here, usually with a pastry. The British had them at hotels and fancy restaurants, which locals couldn't afford, so they made their own version. 'At dim sum, it's tea with no milk or sweetener but in these cha chan tengs, instead of full leaf tea, they'd use the brokens and the dust.' Tata and Yellow Label Lipton tea are popular go-tos. Brits used fresh milk; Hong Kongers made milk tea with evaporated milk. 'It had a longer shelf life and was cheaper. We call it silk stocking tea because it got strained through a long cloth bag that looked like a stocking.' There's usually a bakery in the restaurant because the British taught them how to bake (whereas at dim sum, most items are steamed). Essential reading for hockey fans who eat, sleep, Canucks, repeat. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The egg tart's origin is debatable, Chan says. 'Some say it's from the Portuguese. I say it's British because it was originally made with short crust. I think puff pastry is more popular these days, though.' The perpetually busy Kam Wah Café in the Mong Kok neighbourhood is one such cha chaan teng, a locals' favourite for pineapple buns and egg tarts. There, we had both, along with French toast with a slab of butter and milk tea. 'They just got inspired by British goods but made Hong Kong versions, due to an unavailability of goods or taste preference. A cool example is chicken pie. Hong Kongers make individual sizes and instead of butter, we use lard for the pastry and the seasoning would be soy sauce, oyster sauce and sesame oil. The chicken was tossed in Chinese seasoning and mixed with peas and ham instead of potatoes and mushrooms,' Chan said. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. A day earlier, I had visited Central's Lan Fong Yuen, the G.O.A.T and longest reigning cha chaan teng when it comes to milk tea. It started as a dai pai dong or streetside stall in 1952. The finest pineapple bun I had, though, was in the entirely different world of the two-Michelin Lung King Heen at the Four Seasons Hotel, where it was beautifully crafted into designer patisserie fare. For the very Hong Kong tradition of dim sum, we went to Luk on Kui, one of the few survivors of dim sum by trolley. In this raucous second-floor room, you scramble for a seat, sharing a table with strangers. 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Photo by Gavin Wilson Nearby Kung Wo Beancurd Factory, another Bib Gourmand, has been making soy products since 1803. 'It's my favourite place to have tofu pudding and tofu,' Chan said. 'I love the silken texture. No one else does it quite like them. The tofu fragrance is light, subtle and the texture is sooo light, airy and silky.' Although the pudding is often served with red beans or black sesame, this place spotlights the tofu. 'Kung Wo is so confident, they only let you add some sugar. That's it.' The shop offers other dishes like chicken wings, pig's feet, dumplings and noodles, too. But yes, the tofu pudding is like silk and cream. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. After wandering through the Nelson Street wet market, with an amazing display of seafood (including frogs, butchered fish still twitching from muscle contractions, fresh fish maw) we managed one more tasting at another Michelin-recommended street food spot. 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Head to the patio at Glowbal Restaurant at 590 West Georgia Street and from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on July 1, there'll be music (Gift Shop, a Tragically Hip tribute band), a barbecue with burgers, hot dogs and other grilled items, side dishes, Canada-inspired desserts like poutine bar, cotton candy, snow cones and more. For kids, there's a bouncy castle and face painting. Tickets are $30 ticket ($40 at the door). Glowbal group of restaurants (Glowbal, Coast, Italian Kitchen, Five Sails, Black and Blue, The Roof, Riley's, Trattoria) will be providing 250 meals a week in the next school year to families in need in Vancouver elementary and secondary schools, which will be delivered by volunteer firefighters. miastainsby@ Read More Vancouver Canucks Vancouver Canucks World BC Lions NHL

Japan Forward

a day ago

• Japan Forward

British Food and Music Shine at Tokyo Embassy

The British Embassy in Tokyo came alive on June 12 with the sounds, scents, and flavors of the United Kingdom at British Beats and Bites – A Celebration of UK Food, Drink and Culture. The event brought together diplomats, entrepreneurs, creatives, and media for an immersive cultural experience centered on the UK's evolving identity as a food and music powerhouse. Hosted in the elegant setting of the British Ambassador's residence, the evening showcased everything from classic British cuisine to artisanal drinks. It culminated in a Britpop-infused DJ set by none other than Alex James, the former bassist of Blur and now an ambassador for British food and drink. Opening the evening was Emil Levendoglu, Minister and Deputy Head of Mission, who welcomed guests with warmth and humor. "It's a great pleasure to be welcoming you to a celebration of British food, drink, creativity — and, it turns out, cocktails," he said. Levendoglu described the modern British food scene as "bold, diverse, and globally inspired," noting how it has been shaped by the many cultures that make up contemporary Britain. "From Michelin-starred restaurants to buzzing food markets, our chefs and producers are constantly blending tradition with new ideas," he said, drawing a parallel with Japan's own culinary culture. Beyond food, Levendoglu emphasized the strong cultural ties between the UK and Japan. "This evening is also about the deep and enduring friendship between the UK and Japan, and the cultural ties that bind us together. Not just in food, but also in music, art, and creativity." Those cultural ties came to to life with the presence of Alex James, a man who embodies the crossover between British music and British food. Introduced by Levendoglu as "a very special guest" and "a passionate advocate for British food and drink," James brought not only nostalgia for his days in Blur but a sense of fun and reinvention. Blur bassist Alex James (©JAPAN Forward) Before his DJ set, James offered a heartfelt toast. "I really am delighted to be in Japan again with my family," he said. "And this time I'm not here as a musician — I'm here as a champion of UK food and drink." He went on to share how meaningful it was to see Japanese guests trying his own product, Brittle Pop, for the first time. "Hopefully, we've managed to get people thinking differently and created some new fans of UK food and drink." The crowd greeted the toast, "To the UK, and to Japan, and to food, and to drink, and to music," with a resounding "Kanpai!" Guests were treated to passed canapés like cold-smoked Scottish salmon on buttered toast, vol-au-vents filled with mushrooms, and bite-sized omelettes made with organic vegetables. Heartier fare included a shepherd's pie station, chicken curry, and roast beef served with ratatouille and gravy. Each dish offered a distinct window into the culinary identity of the UK. The sushi station, featuring kappamaki (thin sushi roll filled with cucumber) and tuna rolls, was a nod to the host country while underscoring the cross-cultural spirit of the evening. For cheese lovers, a curated selection featuring Wales' creamy Perl Las and England's Shropshire Blue, vintage cheddar, and Rutland Red added a tangy punch to the tasting experience. British cuisine at British Beats and Bites (©JAPAN Forward) Drinks reflected the diversity of the UK's four nations, with a showcase of gins and whiskies from England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Signature cocktails made with spirits from all four nations added flair to the evening, while Belvoir soft drinks provided a refreshing non-alcoholic option. Desserts, including whisky-infused chocolate squares, blueberry custard tarts, and raspberry macarons, were passed around as the party reached its peak. To end on a sweet note, guests were gifted Ben's Cookies, while the afternoon tea photo booth, set with Wedgwood ceramics, offered a playful tribute to a timeless British tradition. Adding another layer of momentum to the evening, Rupert Daniels, Director of Services for the UK's Department of Business and Trade, likened the event to a band's tour. Tokyo, he said, was just the first stop before the team traveled to Osaka for a showcase at the UK Pavilion at Expo 2025. "You're really lucky — you're seeing the first night of the band on tour," he said. Daniels, who first came to Japan during the 2002 World Cup, spoke fondly of the shared passions that unite both countries. "The two things that brought everyone together, particularly from the UK and our wonderful Japanese hosts, were music, food, and drink, which is exactly what we're celebrating tonight." He also urged guests to explore and interact with the variety of UK producers represented at the event. "There are 15 or 16 different producers here tonight — from sparkling wine to whisky to wonderful confectionery. Go talk to someone you've never met before. Try something new. Let's keep this cultural interchange going strong." Bar at British Beats and Bites (©JAPAN Forward) While the event had all the hallmarks of successful public diplomacy, soft power through food, cultural nostalgia, and personal storytelling, it was ultimately about connection. It celebrated the human dimension of trade, creativity, and shared tastes. From signature dishes to sampling stations, from Britpop classics echoing across embassy halls to toasts of sparkling Brittle Pop, British Beats and Bites was more than a showcase — it was a shared table. As the evening continued under Tokyo's early summer skies, with glasses clinking and voices mingling, one thing was clear. The bonds between the UK and Japan are as much about what's on the plates, or in the speakers, as they are about politics or policy. Author: Daniel Manning

Toronto Star

a day ago

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The colourful, environmentally friendly spectacle will feature songs spanning the band's nearly 30-year career and will feature support from two emerging international talents: Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna and Nigerian artist Ayra Starr. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. Music $650 to see Coldplay? Toronto ticket prices have spiralled out of control. How did we get here? Richie Assaly Blackpink July 22-23 at Rogers Stadium HODELETE NC Blackpink's Jisoo, clockwise from bottom left, Rose, Jennie and Lisa in 'Light Up the Sky.' (�Courtesy of YG/Netflix/TNS) Courtesy of YG TNS The biggest girl group on planet Earth is returning to Toronto for two dates as part of their first-ever all-stadium world tour, which kicks off in their native South Korea in early July. Find tickets here. The Weeknd, Playboi Carti & Mike Dean July 27-28 and Aug. 7-8 at Rogers Centre The Weeknd performing during the 2022 'After Hours Til Dawn' stadium tour at Mercedes Benz Stadium on Aug. 11, 2022, in Atlanta. Paul R. Giunta / THE CANADIAN PRESS Will this be the last chance to see The Weeknd perform on home soil? The Toronto R&B and pop superstar, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, recently told the New York Times that he plans to bid farewell to his shadowy alter ego following the release of 'Hurry Up Tomorrow,' a thriller film that was released as a companion to his 2025 album of the same name. Later, he told EW that though the film feels like the death of his moniker, 'it could also just be a rebirth.' Regardless of what happens down the road, fans won't want to miss a chance to see The Weeknd on the massive stage at Rogers Centre alongside the ultra-popular rage-rap pioneer Playboi Carti and legendary producer Mike Dean. Find tickets here. Tate McRae Aug. 19-20 at Scotiabank Arena Tate McRae performs during iHeartRadio Hot 99.5's Jingle Ball 2024 Presented By Capital One at Capital One Arena on December 17, 2024 in Washington, DC. Michael Loccisano / Getty Images After appearing on 'Saturday Night Live' and winning a boatload of Junos — including single of the year, album of the year, artist of the year and pop album of the year — Calgary's homegrown pop star is hitting the road for The Miss Possessive Tour in support of her third studio album 'So Close to What.' McRae's first ever arena tour includes two stops in Toronto in August. Find tickets here. Oasis Aug. 24-25 at Rogers Stadium An Oasis fan is photographed next to a new mural depicting Liam and Noel Gallagher of Oasis, on August 28, 2024 in Manchester, England. Christopher Furlong / Getty Images It's finally happening. After flaming out more than 15 years ago, Oasis is finally set to reunite in what was long thought an impossibility. And if the infamously combative Gallagher brothers can keep things civil for just a few weeks longer, they will grace the stage of Rogers Stadium for two nights in late August. Fingers crossed, and good luck grabbing tickets if you haven't already. Find tickets here. Music Oasis is back! To celebrate, we found the 10 funniest Liam and Noel Gallagher moments Richie Assaly System of a Down with Deftones Sept. 3-4 at Rogers Stadium System of a Down will play in Toronto this summer with Deftones. In May, footage emerged on social media from a System of a Down (SOAD) concert in Brazil, and it looked absolutely bonkers. To the average music fan, the clip looks like chaos, but to those who grew up in the nu-metal trenches, it looks like heaven. In what will be their first show in Toronto in more than a decade, SOAD will be joined by fellow '90s alternative metal titans Deftones in what is sure to be two rowdy shows at Rogers Stadium this September. Find tickets here. Morgan Wallen Sept. 4-5 at Rogers Centre Country superstar Morgan Wallen can't seem to avoid controversy, but that hasn't stopped him from becoming one of the most popular crossover country acts in North America. The Tennessee singer's latest album — the 37-track 'I'm the Problem' — easily reached No.1 on the Billboard 200 in May, making it the singer's third consecutive chart-topping album. Wallen is bringing the road show to Toronto for two mega-shows at Rogers Centre with Miranda Lambert and Gavin Adcock this September. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. Lady Gaga Sept. 10-11, 13 at Scotiabank Arena Lady Gaga gave a free concert in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night in front of at least a million fans who poured onto Copacabana Beach for the biggest show of her career. 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Christopher Polk Getty Images Released last October, Tyler, the Creator's 'Chromakopia' landed on the Star's list of top albums of 2024. To support the record, the eccentric hip hop shape-shifter will be heading out on a world tour with Lil Yachty and Paris Texas, including two dates in Toronto. Find tickets here. Nine Inch Nails Aug. 23 at Scotiabank Arena Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross are taking a break from composing incredible film scores to get the band back together. Though Nine Inch Nails haven't released any new music in half a decade, the industrial rock titans will hit the road for the first time since 2022 with support from German electro-house producer Boys Noize. Find tickets here. Dua Lipa Sept. 1-2 at Scotiabank Arena Dua Lipa performing at Austin City Limits in October, 2024. Jack Plunkett/AP It's been more than two years since disco-pop superstar Dua Lipa tore the roof off Scotiabank Arena, but she's finally plotting her return. She'll perform two shows at the same venue in September in support of her third studio album, 'Radical Optimism.' Find tickets here. Hozier Sept. 10 at Rogers Stadium When the heck did Hozier get so big? The Irish singer-songwriter, who first hit the scene in 2013 with the hit song 'Take Me to Church,' has quietly emerged as one of the biggest artists in modern rock. In recent years, the handsome rock star has played the Danforth, the Rebel and various other venues in Toronto. But this September, he's graduated to the big leagues and will play to tens of thousands of fans at Rogers Stadium. Find tickets here. Legends and Legacy Acts Mavis Staples June 23 at Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres Mavis Staples performs onstage with The Celebration Gospel Choir in 2019. Brent N. Clarke/Invision/AP Mavis Staples is a true icon of American culture: a legendary blues, gospel and R&B singer; a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer; a civil rights activist and an uncompromising voice for peace. 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The Fleetwood Mac frontwoman and acclaimed songwriter will grace the stage at Scotiabank this August, where she'll play songs from across her sprawling catalogue. Find tickets here. Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts Aug. 17 & 19 at Budweiser Stage Neil Young performs onstage at the Greek Theatre on April 26, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. Kevin Winter Getty Images Neil Young is nearly 80, but the beloved Canadian rock star seems to possess boundless amounts of energy. He's got a new protest album on the way this summer (a recent single about electric cars takes a shot at Elon Musk) and is hitting the road for the Love Earth world tour, where he'll perform alongside the Chrome Hearts, a new band made up of guitarist Micah Nelson, bassist Corey McCormick, drummer Anthony LoGerfo and organist Spooner Oldham. Find tickets here. Music Neil Young renews attacks on Trump, calls the U.S. government 'out of control' Richie Assaly The Who Sept. 2, 4 at Budweiser Stage 'All good things must come to an end,' guitarist and vocalist Pete Townshend wrote in a statement announcing The Who's North American farewell tour, which is being touted as the 'grand finale of their illustrious six-decade career.' Though this is far from the first time The Who has said goodbye — fans note that the British rock band has embarked on several 'farewell' tours dating back to 1982 — it's probably worth seeing Townshend and singer Roger Daltrey while you still can. Find tickets here. Let's Get Nostalgic Dave Matthews Band July 8 at Budweiser Stage Sure, DMB is not the coolest band in the world, but they are considered one of the great live acts, known for their epic jams and for their experimental renditions of songs spanning their 35-year career. So why not 'Crash' into the Bud Stage on a warm July evening and enjoy the sweet sounds of Charlottesville's finest? Find tickets here. Wu-Tang Clan July 14 at Scotiabank Arena RZA, left, and Ghostface Killah of Wu-Tang Clan perform during KAABOO 2019 at the Del Mar Racetrack and Fairgrounds on Sept. 13, 2019, in San Diego. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP, File) Could this really be the end of Wu-Tang? 'This is a special moment for me and all my Wu brothers to run around the globe together one more time and spread the Wu swag, music, and culture,' RZA said in a statement, which describes the 'The Final Chamber' as a farewell tour for the legendary Staten Island hip hop collective. The show will feature all the surviving members of the Clan — RZA, GZA, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Masta Killa, and Cappadonna — along with Ol' Dirty Bastard's son, Young Dirty Bastard. If you're going to the Toronto show, be sure to arrive in time to check out the opening set from the hip hop superduo Run the Jewels. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World & New Found Glory July 23 at Budweiser Stage What do the Offspring, Jimmy Eat World and New Found Glory have in common? Beyond the fact that they were all massive Y2K-era rock bands, I'm not really sure! But the fellas will all share the Bud Stage this July for the 'Supercharged' tour, launched in support of the Offspring's latest album, released last year. Find tickets here. Where The Party At Tour July 31 at Budweiser Stage Are you looking to party like it's 2001? Then grab your Diesel jeans and buy yourself a ticket to the Where The Party At Tour at Bud Stage. The mini festival's lineup features some of the biggest hitters from the Y2K era of hip hop and R&B, including Nelly, Ja Rule, Eve, Chingy and St. Lunatics. Find tickets here. Goo Goo Dolls and Dashboard Confessional Aug. 10 at Budweiser Stage There are few things better than an outdoor concert on a hot summer day, but if you're a Goo Goo Dolls fan, you might find yourself praying for rain. This August, the post-grunge pop rock band from Buffalo will be joined by the emo-rock group Dashboard Confessional at Bud Stage for what is sure to be a night of tight jeans and big emotions. If there is indeed rain in the forecast, don't worry about an umbrella. Just feel that rain on your skin. Find tickets here. Lil Wayne Aug. 11 at Budweiser Stage Lil Wayne performs during the MTV Video Music Awards. Charles Sykes / Charles Sykes/Invision/AP 'Tha Carter VI,' Lil Wayne's first studio album in half a decade, was not exactly a masterpiece, but the New Orleans rapper remains among the most beloved and influential artists in the history of hip hop. He'll hit Bud Stage in August alongside Tyga and Belly Gang Kushington, and there's a halfway decent chance that one Drake might show up, too. Find tickets here. Music Review Drake's Young Money reunion with Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj was a thrillingly nostalgic act of mythmaking Richie Assaly Pulp Sept. 16 at Budweiser Stage Earlier this spring, Pulp released 'More,' the legendary Britpop band's first record in 24 years. In a press release, frontman Jarvis Cocker said the album was recorded over three weeks: 'the shortest amount of time a Pulp album has ever taken to record,' adding that it was 'obviously ready to happen.' Now, the band is sharing that sense of renewal with the 'Common People' on a tour that will stop at Bud Stage in September. Find tickets here. Hometown Heroes Broken Social Scene June 21 at History Why not celebrate the official start of summer with the triumphant sounds of Broken Social Scene? Toronto's most influential indie rock collective will be throwing a massive party at History as part of this year's Jazz Fest, and it's sure to be a blast. Fans can prepare for the show by listening to 'Anthems,' a brand new celebration of the band's 2002 classic 'You Forgot It in People,' which features covers from Maggie Rogers and Sylvan Esso, Toro y Moi, Middle Kids, the Weather Station and many more. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. Music Broken Social Scene is celebrating their 20th anniversary with two shows at Massey Hall Richie Assaly Pup July 13-15, 17-19 at various venues. Toronto punk band PUP, from left, Nestor Chumak, Stefan Babcock, Steve Sladkowski and Zack Mykula. Vanessa Heins / Submitted Toronto punk rock titans Pup are celebrating the release of their fifth LP, 'Who Will Look After the Dogs?' with an exciting and unique concept: starting in mid-July, the band will perform a string of six shows, starting with a small house show and moving to progressively larger venues throughout the week — Sneaky Dee's, Lee's Palace, Opera House, The Danforth — and culminating with a massive concert at History. Find tickets here. Music Toronto punks PUP on the new album, their 'unravelling' and perfecting imperfect music Justin Smirlies Our Lady Peace July 24 at Budweiser Stage One of the biggest bands in Canadian alternative rock history is celebrating their 30th anniversary with a string of dates this summer, including a stop at Bud Stage with Collective Soul and Wintersleep. Fans can expect to hear all of OLP's greatest hits from over the decades: 'Superman's Dead,' 'Clumsy,' 'In Repair' and much more. Find tickets here. Blue Rodeo, Allison Russell and Aysanabee Aug. 23 at Bud Stage Blue Rodeo's Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor. George Pimentel Blue Rodeo, the Toronto-based roots-rock journeymen, are hitting Bud Stage this summer for a very special hometown show featuring support from two great live acts: Montreal-born artist Allison Russell, whose music combines R&B, soul, folk and Americana, and Toronto-based singer-songwriter Aysanabee, whose booming baritone has made him one of the most acclaimed Indigenous artists of the past half decade. Find tickets here. Music A near-death experience and a promise kick-started Aysanabee's music career — now he wants to 'take those hinges' off doors for other Indigenous artists Emilie Hanskamp Special to the Star The Return of the Aughts My Chemical Romance Aug. 22 at Rogers Centre My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way's at Virgin Festival in Vancouver. JEFF VINNICK FOR THE TORONTO STAR Dust off those skinny jeans and head to Sephora for a new eyeliner. Nearly two decades after My Chemical Romance released 'The Black Parade,' a beloved and acclaimed emo-rock opus, the band is embarking on a massive stadium tour. For their Toronto stop, they'll be joined by a very special guest: Boston alt-rock legends the Pixies. Find tickets here. TV on the Radio Aug. 1 at History Brooklyn art-rock band TV on the Radio are touring for the first time in half a decade to mark the deluxe reissue of their 2004 classic 'Desperate Youth, Blood Thirsty Babes.' The band's only other show is at Osheaga in Montreal, and who knows when they will tour again, so grab a ticket while you can (and check out their awesome NPR Tiny Desk performance from last year). Find tickets here. Linkin Park Aug. 8 at Scotiabank Arena Linkin Park is back on tour for the first time since the 2017, when the band went on indefinite hiatus following the death of lead vocalist Chester Bennington. The Grammy-winning alternative rock group reformed last fall with vocalist Emily Armstrong and drummer Colin Brittain, to release 'From Zero.' Toronto fans will get their first chance to see the new version of Linkin Park for the first time at Scotiabank this August. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. Music Linkin Park reunite seven years after Chester Bennington's death, with new music and singer Emily Armstrong Maria Sherman The Associated Press LCD Soundsystem James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem. Richard Lautens / Toronto Star Aug. 22-24 at History Make sure you do your stretches if you're one of thousands of aging millennials heading down to History for one of three LCD Soundsystem shows at History this summer. The New York dance-punk revivalists are back on the road to defend their reputation as one of the rowdiest live acts of the indie sleaze era, led by their fearless frontman James Murphy. Find tickets here. Alabama Shakes Sept 6. at Budweiser Stage Brittany Howards of Alabama Shakes. Rich Fury/Invision/AP For years, it was fair to assume that Alabama Shakes would never reunite, especially given the success and acclaim of frontwoman Brittany Howard's solo career, and the legal trouble faced by drummer Steve Johnson. And yet, last December, the beloved blues-rock band announced they would be returning to the stage as a three-piece, and shared that there might even be new music on the way. 'This band and these songs have been such a source of joy for all of us,' Howard wrote in a statement announcing their return. 'It is crazy that it has been 10 years since we released 'Sound & Color' and eight years since we played a show. But, we didn't want this to entirely be a look back. We wanted it to be as much about the future as the past.' Find tickets here. Can't-Miss Indie Shows Makaya McCraven June 25 at The Mod Club Chicago-based drummer and composer Makaya McCraven will grace the stage at The Mod Club as part of the Toronto Jazz Fest this summer. McCraven's unique sound collapses the borders between genres, blending classic and modern styles of jazz with hip-hop and folk music. New fans might want to start with ' Deciphering The Message,' a recent project that featured modern interpretations of jazz standards from the legendary Blue Note Records label. The music will have you bobbing your head and asking yourself why you don't listen to more jazz, guaranteed. Find tickets here. Jeremy Dutcher June 21 at Roy Thomson Hall Last fall, Jeremy Dutcher became the first artist ever to win a second Polaris Music Prize for his sophomore album 'Motewolonuwok.' This summer, fans will have a chance to see the Wolastoqiyik singer-songwriter, whose music moves between lush neo-classical and rollicking art-rock, for a special performance marking both Pride and National Indigenous Day alongside the Toronto Symphony Orchestra at Roy Thomson Hall. Find tickets here. Music The radical art of Jeremy Dutcher: Wolastoqiyik singer tackles new musical territory Richie Assaly Kurt Vile & the Violators July 11 at the Danforth Music Hall In recent years, Kurt Vile has performed at the Danforth pretty much every summer, and it's always an absolute delight. Known for his mellow drawl and his quietly brilliant guitar playing, few artists are better at locking into a hypnotic groove that makes listeners feel like they're riding a cloud into the infinite horizon. Find tickets here. Beck and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra July 18 and 19 @ Roy Thomson Hall Nearly three decades since he released his zeitgeist-defining album 'Odelay,' American singer-songwriter Beck has quietly become one of the most successful alt-rock artists of his generation (it remains hard to believe he won the Grammy for Album of the Year in 2015). In July, the 54-year-old will come to Toronto for a two-night stint at Roy Thomson Hall, where he'll be accompanied by Toronto Symphony Orchestra as he delivers unique symphonic arrangements of his classic hits and deep cuts from a towering back catalogue. ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW Find tickets here. Men I Trust July 24-26 at History They might not be a household name yet, but Montreal's Men I Trust is easily one of the biggest indie acts in Canada, boasting nearly 10 million monthly Spotify followers. The vibey, dream-pop band recently dropped a new album, titled 'Equus Caballus,' and will be in Toronto for three consecutive shows at History this July. Find tickets here. Haim Sept. 6 at Scotiabank Arena The sisters Haim are returning to Toronto this summer, bringing their old-fashioned (but distinctly forward-looking) brand of pop-rock to one of the city's biggest stages. The trio recently released their fourth album, 'I Quit,' which features the summer hit ' Relationships.' Find tickets here. Music Music Review: HAIM return with a superb and salty breakup album Mark Kennedy The Associated Press Wet Leg Sept. 12 at History Led by the charisma and dry humour of frontwoman Rhian Teasdale, English post-punk band Wet Leg exploded onto the scene with their self-titled debut in 2022, an album that landed co-sings from Dave Grohl and a couple of Grammys. Unsurprisingly, expectations are sky high for the band's sophomore album, 'Moisturizer,' which drops July 11. You can catch them at History — a venue with more than twice the capacity as the Phoenix Concert Theatre, where they played during their last visit to Toronto. Find tickets here. Alex G and Nilüfer Yanya Sept. 14 & 15 at History English indie rocker Nilüfer Yanya. Molly Daniel Alex G might be on a major label now, but he'll never be able to shed his reputation as the shaggy king of off-kilter indie rock. On the irresistible 'Afterlife' — his first single since 2022 (and his first released via RCA) — the inscrutable singer-songwriter from Philly swaps his guitar for a mandolin, leaning further into to folky Americana and Celtic-inflected sound that he first experimented with on his 2017 album, 'Rocket.' A new parent, he sounds both pensive and optimistic here, as he reflects on his youth and muses about his formative years and paths not trodden. Alex G's 10th album, 'Headlights,' arrives on July 18 and he'll play two nights at History in Toronto alongside English alt-rock artist Nilüfer Yanya this September. Find tickets here. Music Alex G offers a glimpse behind the curtain on 'God Save The Animals' Richie Assaly Ethel Cain Sept. 15 & 16 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre After exploding in popularity on the heels of her 2022 debut, 'Preacher's Daughter,' American gothic rock artist Ethel Cain defied her new-found fame earlier this year with the release of 'Perverts,' a dark, droning collection of ambient music. The release confounded her new and fairweather fans, while delighting those who had been with her since her early days. She'll play two sold-out shows at Queen Elizabeth Theatre at the end of this summer. Find tickets here. Music Review On 'Perverts,' Ethel Cain's gloomy Americana turns industrial Jim Pollock The Associated Press