The Tragically Hip is still at it, playing more sold-out arena gigs across the country than any other Canadian band, even if its record sales are nowhere near the band’s ’90s pinnacle. But the guys in the Hip can still rock out, as evidenced by the memorable, three-encore Metro Centre show last December. The Hip has reserved its place in Canadian lore, being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at last week’s Juno ceremony where the band was nominated for two awards for its 10th album, In Between Evolution. The Hip was up against Thornley, Default, Sum 41 and the Tea Party, among others, all bands whose members were probably in diapers when the Hip released its first record. Not bad for a bunch of guys who’ve been around the block a few times.
Runners-up: Arcade Fire, Blue Rodeo/Nickelback (tie)
