Winter Gloves launched their new CD, All Red, at Il Motore on Friday, Sept. 24th. This Montreal-based synth pop outfit is a newcomer to the indie scene, but have made it big, being named Best New Artist by iTunes Canada after their debut release, About a Girl in 2008. Their curious instrumentation (including a Wurlitzer and a synth bass) have garnered them a spot in the hearts of fans.

Opening for Winter Gloves were The Hoof and the Heel, a band I had not known before this show, but surprised me with a nice combination of electro and folk. The lead vocalist was charming, and was a nice opener for Winter Gloves, building that community vibe and sending a bit of warmth through the crowd from the get go. If you like I Am the Dot of Three Blind Wolves, you will dig this group.

Winter Gloves arrived on stage very soon after The Hoof and the Heel departed, and though I was oblivious to their repertoire prior to this show, they were obviously playing for the crowd. Their relationship with the audience was spectacular and very cozy, it made you feel like just hugging everyone around you. Their folkish/synth-poppish sounds were reminiscent to me of Mother Mother (from Vancouver) and Montreal’s own Cuff the Duke. All in all a very comfy and non-invasive show.