Show Review by Tom Swift:
81-year young music legend, Bruce Cockburn got an incredible welcome at Massey Hall. With an array of gorgeous guitars that were swapped through the evening, Bruce dazzled the packed hall with 2 ½ hours of striking music, genuine smiles and introspective banter. While he dove into a few songs from his latest album – solo cover album “The Blood of Others” – it was the songs from his previous record – “O Sun O Moon” – that brought the biggest wallop of emotions. More seasoned favourites – “If a Tree Falls”, “If I had a Rocket Launcher”, “Call it Democracy” and “Mama Just Wants to Barrelhouse All Night Long”, “States I’m in” – were sprinkled craftily between the two sets. Leader’s melodic guitar riffs were accompanied in Bruce’s new band, made up of versatile guitarist Jeff Pevar and understated and haunting vocalist/percussionist Inger Nova.
This was a homecoming of sorts for Bruce (long time Toronto resident). He recalled his favourite bar nearby Massey Hall and recounted a hilarious story focused on Miles Davis electric band whose show he attended at this very venue in the early 70’s. Canadian pride was on full display when he reminisced about Joni Mitchell being sarcastically degraded by another Canadian, who was shocked to find out she’s actually from this very country.
Frequent appreciation from the packed hall – “We love you Bruce” – was reciprocated with a chuckle and a warm smile.
This was a memorable, emotional show by a seasoned Canadian statesman of music, full of joy, banter, tears and great spirit.
One for the history books for sure.
Comments/further information
Setlist & Photo: Brian Wood
Show Review by Tom Swift:
81-year young music legend, Bruce Cockburn got an incredible welcome at Massey Hall. With an array of gorgeous guitars that were swapped through the evening, Bruce dazzled the packed hall with 2 ½ hours of striking music, genuine smiles and introspective banter. While he dove into a few songs from his latest album – solo cover album “The Blood of Others” – it was the songs from his previous record – “O Sun O Moon” – that brought the biggest wallop of emotions. More seasoned favourites – “If a Tree Falls”, “If I had a Rocket Launcher”, “Call it Democracy” and “Mama Just Wants to Barrelhouse All Night Long”, “States I’m in” – were sprinkled craftily between the two sets. Leader’s melodic guitar riffs were accompanied in Bruce’s new band, made up of versatile guitarist Jeff Pevar and understated and haunting vocalist/percussionist Inger Nova.
This was a homecoming of sorts for Bruce (long time Toronto resident). He recalled his favourite bar nearby Massey Hall and recounted a hilarious story focused on Miles Davis electric band whose show he attended at this very venue in the early 70’s. Canadian pride was on full display when he reminisced about Joni Mitchell being sarcastically degraded by another Canadian, who was shocked to find out she’s actually from this very country.
Frequent appreciation from the packed hall – “We love you Bruce” – was reciprocated with a chuckle and a warm smile. This was a memorable, emotional show by a seasoned Canadian statesman of music, full of joy, banter, tears and great spirit. One for the history books for sure.
Editor Note: Sold Out Show
Photos:
Tom Swift, lots of photos and video clips
Brian Wood, top photo
Videos:
StacksMaxwell, many excellent videos, click on through.
Lily Of The Midnight Sky
Us All
Call It Democracy
Push Come To Shove
LES FEUILLES MORTES, @ benespaghett