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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 Toronto’s The Rivoli venue this weekend on August 16th at 10:00 pm.
Led by sultry vocalist/percussionist Melissa Meretsky and frontman/guitarist Brent “Gisto” Hongisto, Wassabi brings both heart and heat—inviting audiences to move, think, and feel. After more than a decade away, they’re making their long-awaited return with the same electrifying energy and spirit of activism that made them festival favourites.
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Tickets start at $23. Those looking to purchase tickets can purchase them here.
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.
As always, you can keep up with all the fun happenings in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area on efosa.
About THE WASSABI COLLECTIVE
After forming in 2000 and stepping away in 2012, Wassabi Collective spent over a decade crisscrossing Canada in a converted school bus, building a devoted cult following along the way. Known for their progressive world beats, explosive live shows, and infectious feel-good energy, the West Coast crew lit up stages across North America—headlining festivals, filling legendary venues, and even landing a feature on PBS’ Roadtrip Nation. They capped off their initial run with a standout performance at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics before taking a well-earned hiatus.
Now they’re back—and spicier than ever. Wassabi Collective made a fiery return this May at the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in Whistler. The momentum keeps rolling with upcoming shows at the Relics Festival in Nova Scotia on July 19th and the Killaloe Craft & Community Fair on Friday, August 8th.
The Wassabi Collective’s 25th Reunion of West Coast Tribal Electro-Funk Band
When: August 16th, 10:00 pm – 2:00 am
Where: Rivoli, Toronto, 334 Queen Street West, Toronto
Admission: Priced. Tickets start at $23. Grab your tickets here