Rocky Votolato Living Room Concert at Through Being Cool - Concert Pictures

American singer-songwriter Rocky Votolato has been touring solo, performing living room shows in homes and other venues. I remember planning to go see him last time he was here in Toronto and I just couldn't make it work. So when I saw the announcement for this show, I wanted to make sure I was there. His Toronto concert on April 20 (after all the afternoon 420 celebrations) was performed at Through Being Cool vegan bakery. It was certainly a unique setting for a show, and the intimacy allowed for full concentration on the music.

It was a small and intimate show, performed completely acoustic. The songs were presented in their most basic elements of guitar, voice and harmonica. It was a fantastic way to fully absorb in Rocky's personal and emotive songs. I love songs presented acoustically and this show reminded me of amazing times I've had hanging around with musical friends, a bunch of guitars and a few drinks. A show like this feels like a rare treat and a privilege to attend; something that I wish more artists would do.

I'm never too good at keeping track of setlists, but here's what I captured.
​
"Little Spring"
"Portland is Leaving"
"Shortcuts"
"Hospital Handshakes"
"Kids as Kids"
"Alabaster"
"Om Ma"
"Tinfoil Hats"
"Instrument"
"White Daisy Passing"
"Makers"
"Suicide Medicine"
"White Knuckles"
"Boxcutter"
"The Finish Line"
"Montana"

If you're not familiar with his music, check out some below. And look out for Rocky playing a show near you. It's well worthwhile attending.

"Little Spring"

"Portland is Leaving"

"Hospital Handshakes"

"Tinfoil Hats"

"Instrument"

"White Daisy Passing"

"Suicide Medicine"

"White Knuckles"

"The Finish Line"

"Montana"

RIP Prince - Prince dead at 57

Sad news from Paisley Park in Minnesota as news of a death at Prince's mansion seems to have turned into confirmation that legendary musician Prince Rogers Nelson has passed away at 57.

Since first hearing of Prince in the early 80s up to his recent Piano and a Microphone tour, his music has been a welcome and inescapable part of my life. The magic that he brought to pop music is immense and his legacy will no doubt be felt for generations. He played in the pop genre but stretched its limits greatly, ultimately influencing a generation.

As some small tribute, I bring you a list of my personal favourite Prince tunes. Obviously, I cannot begin to scratch the surface of his greatness. Those looking for details of his life and accomplishments can head to Wikipedia.

"Little Red Corvette"

"1999"

"Kiss"

"When You Were Mine"

"Raspberry Beret"

"U Got The Look"

"Let's Go Crazy"

"Take Me With U"

"Darling Nikki" especially as interpreted by Foo Fighters

"When Doves Cry"

"I Would Die 4 U"

"Baby I'm A Star"

"Purple Rain"

"Nothing Compares 2 U" as recorded by Sinead O'Connor

"Erotic City"

Rest in peace Prince, and thank you for the music.

Pic from Rolling Stone.

Laura Gibson at The Horseshoe Tavern - Concert Pictures

​Oregon multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Laura Gibson came to Toronto to open for Shearwater at The Horseshoe Tavern on March 17. Her new album Empire Builder came out April 1. She played her delicate songs solo and told us stories of the song's inspiration.

Take a listen to some of Laura's music and go see her live when she comes back to Toronto in July.

"Not Harmless"

"Empire Builder"

"Le Grand"

Dearly Beloved at The Horseshoe Tavern - Concert Pictures

​The night of March 11 was a busy one. I caught Mo Kenney, Northcote and Frank Turner at The Danforth Music Hall, then I rushed down to The Horseshoe Tavern to catch Rusty. I figured I'd miss all the opening acts for sure. Turns out I was in the right place at right time to catch the last song by Dearly Beloved when Rob Higgins came down into the crowd. The band showed an amazing energy and a heavy sound that I don't want to miss next time, which will hopefully be May 7 at The Opera House.

"Olympics of No Regard"

"Living Proof"

"Candy Coated"

Mo Kenney at The Danforth Music Hall - Concert Pictures

Dartmouth, Nova Scotia singer-songwriter Mo Kenney got things started on March 11 at The Danforth Music Hall opening for Frank Turner and Northcote (click through for my pics of those performances).

​Mo performs great, easy listening down east songs with charming stories and all delivered with her wonderful voice. She even treated us to her favourite David Bowie song, "Five Years".

Check out "Telephone" and "Take Me Outside" from Mo's In My Dreams album. That album is being re-released in the US this month.