Events

Drake offers worthwhile escapism for his peeps in “the 6”

Drake’s Jungle Tour is a solo love letter to the city, free of celebrity distraction Nick Krewen Music, Wed. June 3, 2015 Drake At the Air Canada Centre, Tuesday, June 2 Welcome to Drake’s jungle, baby. It’s a complex place, one where hanging vines, dry ice waterfalls and the occasional campfire serve as the visual backdrop for the Toronto-born rap superstar’s complex feelings, the inner sanctum of emotions that range…


Tobias Jesso Jr. captivates crowd in solo show: review

The young performer has plenty of room to grow, but the charisma he exudes is certainly half the battle in advancing his career. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Mon Mar 23 2015 Tobias Jesso Jr. 3 stars At the Drake Hotel Underground, Sunday, March 22. Tobias Jesso Jr. knows how to charm his audience. About a half-hour prior to Sunday’s show at the Drake Underground, the 29-year-old Vancouver-born piano balladeer…


Ariana Grande takes flight at the ACC: concert review

The young “Problem” singer proves she’s got longevity, with a surprisingly under-utilized voice and a large, smartly G-rated production. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Mon Mar 09 2015   Ariana Grande 3 stars At the Air Canada Centre, March 8 Merchandisers did brisk business on plastic glow-in-the-dark cat ears Sunday night at the Air Canada Centre. The significance? At least a couple thousand girls — the audience was probably 90…


Nickelback powers down the pyrotechnics: concert review

The band’s return to the ACC finds the usual frenetic energy somewhat lacking, owing to less anthem-y new songs and a very chatty Chad Kroeger, though the execution of the set was technically flawless. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Mon Feb 23 2015 Nickelback 2.5 stars At the Air Canada Centre, Feb. 22. Nickelback has changed its performance tactic. Once a combo that used all the bells and whistles available…


Julian Taylor revels in versatility

Toronto musician plays R&B at the Horseshoe one night, partakes in folk festival the next. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Thu Feb 12 2015 Julian Taylor is used to shaking it up. For example, those headed to the Horseshoe on Saturday night will experience the full electrifying and soulful R&B glory of the eight-piece Julian Taylor Band as they perform songs from their acclaimed album Tech Noir. On Friday and…