Wassabi Collective, the high-energy tribal funk group that became a cult favourite across Canada’s festival circuit, is officially back and bringing the heat to Ontario this summer. In celebration of their 25th anniversary, the band is hitting the road for a five-show tour that spans Owen Sound to Toronto.
25th ANNIVERSARY:
📍 Saturday, August 16 – The Rivoli, Toronto (with Shapes & DJ JChameleon) tickets / facebook
Wassabi Collective first turned heads in 2000 with their infectious blend of progressive world beats, conscious lyrics, and celebratory stage presence. After 12 years of relentless touring—including a standout performance at the 2010 Winter Olympics and features on PBS’ Roadtrip Nation—the band took a well-deserved hiatus.
Now, reunited and reignited, Wassabi Collective made their triumphant comeback this spring with a high-voltage set at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in Whistler. Their return continues to build momentum with a July appearance at Nova Scotia’s Relics Festival and now, this just-announced Ontario tour.
Led by powerhouse vocalist/percussionist Melissa Meretsky and frontman/guitarist Brent “Gisto” Hongisto, the band continues to deliver a genre-bending mix of groove-heavy rhythms, soul, and pure joy.
“Wassabi’s joyous sound takes you on a cosmic carpet ride from satisfaction to pure bliss… THE ULTIMATE FEEL GOOD ELIXIR.” — Exclaim! Magazine
Whether you caught them in their legendary school-bus tours of the 2000s or you’re hearing them for the first time, this is a rare chance to experience one of Canada’s most beloved underground live acts in their full, funky glory.
Don’t miss your chance to catch Wassabi Collective’s long-awaited return—fresh, fiery, and spicier than ever.
Follow the antics here:
https://www.instagram.com/wassabicollective
https://www.facebook.com/wassabicollective