SooToday Party Patrol photos (24 photos)

Story and photos by Andréa Widgett

If a roof really could be raised, Pat Robitaille would have initiated some major construction at the Speak Easy on Friday night.

Almost 200 keen fans crowded Algoma University's pub that night to engage in a vibrant musical magic act as Pat Robitaille and Aaron Garner enchanted the crowd.

They were also joined by local musical charmers, Craig West, Chris Belsito, Erik (Buzz) Boissoneau and Stephen Myers.

The fast-paced, energetic show was extremely well received by fans who have followed the local music scene for years, and also by newcomers who were apparently impressed.

Travis Merrett and Josh Pringle (photo 15 in the gallery) were enthused members of this awesome crowd.

"As for singers-songwriters, Pat is amazing," said Merrett. "It's so great to see the pub so lively."

Garner and Robitaille both had the audience entranced as they presented mesmerizing and exceptionally talented acoustics throughout their sets.

"They both just sort of take over and dominate the stage," said Pringle. "[They] really are superstars in the making."

The energy in the room throughout the night was remarkably powerful; everybody on the stage and watching it was involved in the show.

"I've never been to this pub before at all," said Nadia Santoro. "But I've heard so many good things about Pat that I was definitely not going to miss this gig."

Santoro (photo seven in the gallery) was among many whom said they thoroughly enjoyed the night's magic.