On Friday, November 15, 2024, HOMESHAKE, the acclaimed solo project of Montreal musician Peter Sagar, delivered an unforgettable performance at White Oak Music Hall. Fans packed the intimate venue, eager to immerse themselves in Sagar’s hypnotic blend of synthpop, alternative R&B, and bedroom pop.
Green-House, known for their eco-conscious ambient compositions, opened the night with a performance that felt more like an immersive experience than a traditional set. Drawing from their latest album, A Host For All Kinds of Life, Olive Ardizoni and collaborator Michael Flanagan crafted a soundscape that was both serene and thought-provoking. Each track invited the audience to consider their relationship with the natural world, blending delicate synth textures with gentle rhythms that echoed the fragility and interconnectedness of life.
Their live rendition of “Everything Is Okay” stood out as a powerful moment, its sixties-inspired melodies layered with a tender sense of reassurance. Ardizoni’s philosophy of choosing joy as an act of resistance was palpable throughout their set, resonating deeply with an audience ready to slow down and tune into their surroundings. Green-House’s performance wasn’t just music; it was a call to reflect, reconnect, and find beauty in the ordinary—a fitting prelude to HOMESHAKE’s emotionally rich headlining act.
When HOMESHAKE took the stage, the room was charged with anticipation. Peter Sagar, the mastermind behind the project, delivered a set that seamlessly blended introspective lyricism with infectious grooves. From the opening of “Every Single Thing” to the final encore of “Listerine,” Sagar guided the audience through a journey of mood and melody, balancing vulnerability with a laid-back charm that has become his trademark.
The setlist, a thoughtful mix of tracks from across his discography, showcased the evolution of HOMESHAKE’s sound. Fans swayed to favorites like “Simple” and “Kitty,” while deeper cuts like “Heat” and “On A Roll” demonstrated Sagar’s talent for creating tracks that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
One of the night’s highlights was “Basement,” its pulsating rhythm and shimmering synths creating a dreamlike atmosphere that enveloped the room. Sagar’s understated stage presence allowed the music to take center stage, his soulful vocals weaving seamlessly into the lush instrumentation. The encore performance of “Listerine” was the perfect closer, leaving the crowd in a reflective haze as Sagar’s plaintive lyrics echoed through the venue.
The synergy between HOMESHAKE and Green-House made the night at White Oak Music Hall feel like more than just a concert. It was a shared experience, a space for introspection and emotional release. Green-House’s focus on environmental and emotional interconnectedness set the tone for the evening, encouraging the audience to slow down and reflect. HOMESHAKE built on this foundation, offering music that delved into the complexities of love, longing, and self-discovery.
White Oak Music Hall’s intimate setting amplified the connection between the artists and their fans, creating an atmosphere that was equal parts communal and personal. Both acts brought something unique to the stage, yet their shared focus on creating immersive, emotionally resonant experiences made for a seamless pairing.
I am a writer and photographer based in Houston, Texas. I am currently attending the University of Houston as a Marketing major, and a PR and MIS minor. I am passionate about my work through the various creative avenues I use such as writing, designing, and photography. In my free time I enjoy delving into rabbit holes and discovering new things!
