Out & About #1092 | Jay B - TAPE: RELOAD in Toronto

These days, I've found myself being less and less inclined to leave the house. If not for errands and mandatory office days, departing from my comfortable, air-conditioned - not to mention, expensive - abode emerges as being utterly unappealing. For starters, it requires an investment of time, especially when joined by the presence of others - for everyone moves ever so slowly. Secondly, any period away equates to a loss of functional time for chores and readying oneself, both physically and mentally, for the incoming stresses of work.

This mindset has, unfortunately, extended to attendance at concerts as well, for all-day activities that were once sources of enjoyment have now amounted to additional stressors: physical weariness prompting vacation requests, rescheduling of chores and duties, meal and logistics planning to curb expenses, and more.
Despite being acquainted with ticketing, navigating the venue and organizer tendencies never gets easier.

​Digital tickets for Jay B's TAPE: RELOAD tour in Toronto were not circulated until one week before the show. Meanwhile, the schedule was distributed 2 days prior and final reminder the day before. The VVVIP agenda was utterly beyond my expectations, with badge distribution commencing at the ungodly hour of 2 PM and the final Q&A event at 11 PM. To make matters worse, neither food nor beverage was permitted on site. Being held on Exhibition Places grounds on a Sunday before CNE meant majority of the buildings were closed, making public bathrooms were impossible to find.

With my priority being adhering to budget, the undertaking would involve parking in Liberty Village then taking BikeShare towards Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
In the early afternoon hours, many of the stations had been vacated. It hadn't helped my case that weather was glorious either. I ventured a bit further to find a series of Classic bikes, proceeding to adjust the seat while a couple hastily shoved their bikes into the dock. The incessant beeping somehow hadn't prompted them to remove the bike and try again, but continuously shove without altering the approach. Both quickly ran out of patience and departed, leaving the dock beeping loudly. This was a prime example of why public infrastructure in North America is so poorly maintained and dirty compared to the likes of Korea: No one cares to be disciplined and respectful of shared facilities.

​I hopped onto my bike and began pedalling away. The feeling was familiar, despite my seasonal absence. I traversed along Lynn Williams, connected to East Liberty Street, then turned south onto Strachan. The immediate ascent caught me off guard. An e-bike user swerved around me, allowing me to continue my struggle, undisturbed.

The plan was to turn west onto Manitoba and dock near the Exhibition streetcar loop. Besides the lack of signage within the internal road network of Exhibition Place grounds, the sole empty dock was out of service. I was running short on time by this point and quickly hopped back on to locate the nearest station.
One wrong turn and I somehow looped around the venue. There was still no docking station in sight. In the end, the closest station involved crossing Lake Shore Blvd.

While I had reckoned that it wouldn't be too treacherous to walk back, it only dawned on me after docking that the pedestrian crossing had been removed due to Ontario Place construction. Pedestrians and cyclists were forced to continue along the south side of Lake Shore until the next signalized intersection at New Brunswick Street. Let it be known that I was positively perspiring by this point and very, very uncomfortable.

​The Thai ahgase had messaged me countless times and even called me during this period, providing a sense of urgency but no help otherwise. I had informed her that my arrival would be delayed. It was unfortunate that VVVIP badge pick-up relied on ID checks, though there was little I could do with navigation technical difficulties.

Trekking back also became more arduous with each step. The blazing sun, in conjunction with a dire need for the bathroom, made for maximum discomfort. Access to Enercare Centre was restricted due to a Valorant event; meanwhile, pre-CNE Sundays meant that adjacent buildings were also closed to the public.

I resolved to grudgingly make my way towards Queen Elizabeth Theatre. In chancing by a free art gallery, I was saved. The facilities of the Withrow Common Gallery were clean and spacious, and  most importantly, did not require access permissions.

In spite the Thai ahgase's frequent check-ins, VVVIP entry had been delayed - which was to be expected. Disorganization was a commonality of practically all North American concerts.

But the most shocking information was the removal of coat check due to the summer season. With my backpack and bike helmet in tow, this was tragic news, and totally inconsistent with the FAQ section posted on the venue website. My meticulous planning have been overruled by a simple "We don't have one." that seemingly did not require any apology to concertgoers that had bothered to familiarize themselves with the available information.

"You could leave your bag by the wheelchair over there. It's probably safe there." A man with a backwards cap gestured to an area immediately adjacent to the door. He then quickly added a spiteful disclaimer, "But we will not be responsible for it."
Of course. I thought. What is new.

And so I'd be lugging around my backpack, bike helmet, and assortment of VIP merchandise in a flimsy tote bag for the entire duration of my stay. At the very least, indoor plumbing facilities were available; water bottle refills were also permitted. As per Reddit, outside food and drink were strictly prohibited. Visitors would be required to purchase water or snacks in the form of overpriced chips, popcorn, or chocolate bars for survival.

​Queuing for entry into the venue and obtaining the VVVIP merchandise spanned well over one hour. We then queued again for entry into the auditorium for Soundcheck. During this time, I obtained a complimentary banner and 7000 Won printout from the local fan group and swiftly integrated with the small group of girls collected by the Thai ahgase. I've never been one to arrive early, but I've also learned lately that I'm neither the one to engage others in conversation without prompts. On the other hand, the Thai ahgase starts conversations, though ultimately does not sustain them beyond the day of the concert.

​I succeed in securing a spot in the second row on the right side of the stage for Soundcheck, splitting with the Thai ahgase due to lack of space. We hover in place for some duration, as endless waiting is the name of the game. In talking with those around me, it is discovered that a limited number of VVVIP tickets were available for purchase - probably no more than fifty, as quoted by a VVIP pass holder. With these details in mind, I felt a sense of pride in being able to procure tickets for my trio. The Thai ahgase ought be more appreciative, in ways beyond incessant anxiety and nagging.

​A 5-minute timer at the lower right of the screen began to count down. Next, the tour banner appeared, revealing "In the U.S." as part of the header. The message incited disapproving declarations from the crowd, including my own thumbs down gesture and audible "Booooo". It vanished from the screen seconds later.

Jay B strode onto the stage without introduction, providing a quiet, tired introduction. In the face of awkwardness, he posed the typical Korean go-to inquiry: "Have you guys eaten yet?"
Some shouted back in affirmation, while the vast majority expressed their discontent. Likely unaware of our circumstances, he meekly replied, "Please eat after." with his gaze down, eyes camouflaged by unstyled bangs.

​Soundcheck tracks comprised of: B.T.W (Feat. Jay Park), The Way We Are, a fan request of Darling (off GOT7's latest album!!), AM PM, and a short snippet of Tomorrow, Today.

View the full album HERE !

My view was fairly decent, though I anticipated the main show to reveal unexpected obstructions. Soundcheck was merely a method of tacking on additional charges for a procedural activity that would take place regardless of the presence of fans. The biggest benefit is being able to potentially request and vote on songs, along with receiving spoilers.

With the conclusion of Soundcheck, all those in presence would be required to exit back into the lobby. The next event was Photo Time with Jay B.

​​After another round of seemingly endless waiting, we were rushed up a winding stairwell to the upper floor. Although we had remained stationery for some considerable amount of time, the line suddenly began to move quickly. Amidst the chaos and under the unexpected weight shift of my three weighty bags, my 360 camera slipped out of my grip, loudly crashing onto the tiled flooring. The girl behind me responded with reasonable shock. I turned to retrieve my now-totalled skeleton of a camera in silence, stunned by the incident and especially angry at myself for having removed the camera from its two layers of protection before drawing near the photo area.

The camera had been preserved in perfect condition since its initial purchase in 2018. I hadn't intended on upgrading to a newer 360 camera, given my gravitation towards the traditional photo and video format, and was appalled by the occurrence overall. The day was going horrifically.

​For the time being, I'd somehow fit the camera back into the sleeve and continue with the events at play. I was hesitant to apply too much pressure to snap the casing back in place, and was also concerned that the photo-capture strip would be damaged throughout the process.

In hindsight, I should have transferred the camera to my pocket or crossbody while in movement. After landing on the second floor, there was more waiting involved after all.
VVVIP badge holders earned themselves 1-on-1 photos with Jay B, while VVIP badge holders a 1:20 "class photo" setup. Admittedly, I was astounded to see Jay B donning the same attire as Soundcheck, hair unstyled and looking positively haggard. His demeanour revealed displeasure towards the photo op, along with a series of awkward poses.

Fans could request specific poses with the artist, ranging from reluctant back hugs to hearts. Those at the front of the line hastily tossed their bags to the side during their turn. These inconveniences were of no concern to the local organizers, but nearby Korean staff showed consideration by offering to hold the bags of fans as their turn approached. Once the photo was taken, each badge holder would retrieve their bag before heading back downstairs.

What proceeded afterwards was yet another painful period of endless standing. As VVIP photos ensued, the organizers began to instruct VVVIP holders to compress themselves against the wall, forming a single-file line such that GA could be admitted within. The ask was absolutely absurd, as GA entry was not due for another several hours and the lobby could barely hold all VVVIP, VVIP, and VIP concertgoers to start.

​Nearly four hours in, weakness was felt in my legs as well as the pit of my stomach. I regrettably surrendered five dollars for a bag of Smartfood popcorn - insurance to survive the remainder of the night without fainting midway. Conversation with fellow ahgases was inevitable as well. Throughout our chatter, I learned of fans that had navigated across the globe purely for the purpose of attending GOT7's solo shows. Canada had assumed the destination of choice for safety, as it was supposedly unthinkable for a girl to attend a concert alone at night. While us locals constantly gripe about poor government decisions and worthless transit, obtaining foreign perspectives served as good reminders to appreciate the culture and society established in our nation.

​Around 6 PM, the doors to venue opened once more. Ladies who had complained about being at the back of the VVVIP line suddenly charged to the front, demanding "reorganization" of the lineup and elbowing all those that attempted to outrun them. The Thai ahgase and I somehow landed at barricade on the left side of the stage. The view wasn't half bad, save the presence of a tall, bulky gentleman beside me. To my dismay, confetti canons had been installed at the base of the stage since soundcheck, obscuring the view further.

Despite changing my batteries the afternoon before, I discovered that my ahgabong refused to illuminate. My head also began to throb from dehydration. My feet, after the consecutive fifth hour, were beginning to ache. My body was haggard from the heat and strain of bag-handling as well. Frankly, circumstances had only grown worse with each passing minute.

Once our spots along the barricade had been sustained, I quickly made a dash for the bathroom before the entry of GA patrons. Even after my return though, another forty minutes awaited us until the arrival of the opening act. I draped myself over the barricade in exhaustion, willing for a punctual start (and end!).
In seeing some of our stress, the security member nearest us began distributing bottled water to the front few rows. I adhered to taking sips from my plastic water bottle instead, in fear of mid-show bathroom runs.

​On the banner, "In the U.S." had been roughly replaced with "In the Canada", sparking a chuckle from those who caught the grammatical error.

The opening act was a Toronto-based artist by the name of Jiwoo. His music was incredibly slow-paced and sleepy, inciting well over ten yawns from yours truly. I could barely recall much of his tracks, for the lyrics were indecipherable and melodies forgettable. The only trivia retained from the thirty-minute performance was his status as a PhD student in his tenth (!) year at U of T.

​Around 8:35 PM, a VCR began to play. It was finally time to see Jay B.

​Neither of us had learned this during Soundcheck, but Jay B had a distinct aversion for the left side of the stage. Majority of his time was spent at the centre or right side. The same observations applied to his choreography, which either involved him moving forward and back in the centre, or towards the right.

While I appreciated the proper styling come show time, his short-lived stays on the left side of the stage summoned remorse. Suffice to say, I had likely never invested this much undivided attention towards Jay B - or any individual member of GOT7, for that matter - before their solo ventures.
Jinyoung had been confirmed to lean left long ago; Youngjae as well. Mark moved across the stage without showing too much preference for a particular side. Jay B was, unfortunately for us, preferential to the right side.

​An outfit change introduced the renowned R&B tracks of his latest album. The fitted knit top was undeniably more fitting of the sensual choreography and signature body waves of the Cloud nine concept.

Inside and Chosen definitely earned new spots on my playlist following their respective performances.

​The knit top's lack of structure also highlighted his thin frame. This observation came as a surprise, for the leader figure I had known throughout my GOT7 fangirlhood was one that was stocky and strong. Seeing his dramatic weight loss firsthand was indeed overwhelming.

​Encore included electronic and band remixes that supported freestyle dance moves. Confetti bursts were frequent, but there was neither water spraying nor close-proximity interactions with the audience whatsoever. Jay B did not leave the stage at all!

​PAGE and Before the Full Moon Rises concluded the encore setlist, riling up the crowd more than any solo track had. The sheer power of GOT7 was truly undeniable.

​With the concert concluding at 10:30 PM, the Q&A session originally scheduled for 11 PM took place earlier. We were instructed to remain in place as the GA and VIP tiers exited the venue. A chair was arranged at the front of the stage for a few questions to be answered.

​Finally, we queued again for the Hi-Bye Session. This event was no more than a slower Hi-Touch, except that there was no touching and no high-fiving. Jay B barely looked at those passing by.

The event ended at 11 PM, allowing me to heave a giant sigh of relief. I could go home at long last.

Trekking back to Liberty Village and driving back was the simplest task of the entire day. The sun had set, effectively resulting in cooler temperatures, in spite of persistent humidity. The clock struck midnight by the time I entered through the doors of my air-conditioned abode. Unable to resist hunger no more, I indulged in my second meal of the day at 12:30 AM, then ran for the shower.
At the late hour of 2 AM, my head hit the pillow.

Alas, slumber was nonexistent. Although overwhelmed with fatigue, a stuffy room and tremendous shoulder pain led to an inability to rest. Replenishing fluids at the late hour also caused frequent waking for trips to the bathroom. The overall experience was brutal.​

I continued to experience severe shoulder pains and extreme weariness well into the following day, as well as the next! The nine-hour long VVVIP segment was confirmed to be the most grueling, taxing concert to ever been lived. To make matters worse, we had relinquished a steep fee to suffer through it all. Not to mention the repair charges for my 360 camera!

Although it was great to see Jay B in the flesh after six years, the overall experience was less enjoyable than both Mark's VIP and BamBam's SVIP. I was beyond exhausted to the point where I could not speak for the subsequent two to three days.