A Night of Rock & Blues
A Night of Rock & Blues
Review by - Wanda Earhard
Sam Moon, The Blues Merchants & Matt Minglewood
Savoy Theatre, March 2004
A mini blizzard could not stop eager blues fans from braving the elements to fill the Savoy in aid of a cherished Cape Breton landmark. 'A NIGHT OF ROCK & BLUES' brought together a triple bill of artists, who played for over three hours to raise much needed funds for Two Rivers Wildlife Park in Marion Bridge.
First up were the Blues Merchants, led by Ian Acker, who delivered a fine way to shake off the chill outside. With hits like Flip Flop & Fly, Sweet Clemintine, and even Stevie Wonder's Signed, Sealed, Delivered, this band of 10 years, gave an example of just how versitile they can be! And speaking of shaking, Sam Moon,bedecked in a glittering luner motiffed moo moo, brought back a lot of memories to his legion of fans, who have long enjoyed his unique brand of rock & blues style, and engaging personality. From some of his own original crowd favorites, to Van Morrison, it was larger than life entertainment guaranteed to please any audience. It was a Marvelous Night to hear a favorite native son belt out much loved songs like Girls Of Neil's Harbour,and Under the Boardwalk. Though surprisingly it was Sam Moon's first time on the Savoy stage, lets hope it won't be the last!
But the man of the hour was definitely Matt Minglewood, hot on the heels of winning the ECMA for his most recent release, the Live at Last album. It is very plain to see that Minglewood has definitely grown into his own over the past several years, and that by no means translates to boring, but rather a most comfortable stage presence, no doubt attributed to decades of touring, successful albums, and in the last couple of years, having his career celebrated on his home turf in summer festivals, and his highly acclaimed solo tours with 'The Story'. which basically chronicals his life as a full time musician.
A highlight of the night was the inclusion of 'Ain't Nothin Pretty About the Blues', definitely a standout song in his repertoire. As well, we heard 'Brushed By The Wings Of An Angel, destined for release on his upcoming acoustic album. Matt Minglewood seems to be just getting started, as opposed to slowing down, and this is one rocker who deserves every reward that has come his way of late. A Night Of Rock & Blues presented a most self assured Minglewood,with passionate song delivery, blistering guitar, and a generous sharing of the stage with the Merchants and Moon.
A positively fabulous show, for a great cause!