When I saw The Constantines last year in Halifax, I was definitely feeling sensitive about my hometown of Toronto. In case you haven't noticed, Toronto isn't well-liked across the country, and I was sick of being ashamed of my birthplace. So when the band made any mention of Toronto I (obnoxiously) hooted and hawed and jumped and pumped my fist. The next day I was called a "hipster Toronto $#@!&" on a messageboard.

But tonight I can pump my fists all I want, because I'm home, and The Constantines are coming home too.

They're promoting a new record, Tournament of Hearts, that was released in September. Admittedly, this isn't their greatest record. It's good, but the slow songs are boring, and there are a few songs that sound suspiciously like old songs. That said, this band performs one of the best live shows I've ever seen, and Constantines audiences tend to be the kind that like to rock. If you've got an extra $20 burning a hole in your pocket, go see this show.

Also playing: The Hold Steady, who I saw last year at Pop Montreal. They're good if you're into clever ironic lyrics, but they aren't amazing or anything. Also, Thunderbirds Are Now are playing, but unfortunately I don't know anything about them.

$17.50 advance, $20 at the door. The Opera House.

Photo courtesy of Three Gut Records