Events

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…


Lucinda Williams gets stellar assistance at Massey Hall: review

The alt-country darling had to read her lyrics from a binder, but her top-notch backing band more than filled in any gaps in her memory. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Fri Nov 21 2014 Lucinda Williams 3.5 stars At Massey Hall, Nov. 20. What on earth is going on with Lucinda Williams? That’s the first question the good denizens of a half-filled Massey Hall were probably asking themselves on Thursday…


Chrissie Hynde turns back the clock: review

In concert at Massey Hall on Thursday, The Pretenders founder seemingly hasn’t aged a day since 1978. Nick Krewen Music, Published on Fri Oct 31 2014 Chrissie Hynde 3 stars At Massey Hall, Oct. 30   Dorian Gray, eat your heart out. Anyone attending the opening night of Chrissie Hynde’s Stockholm tour at Massey Hall on Thursday night could be forgiven for doing a double take and wondering where exactly…