The fall semester has now begun–thus begins the lineup of concerts coming to the MacEwan Hall Ballroom. What better way to start the season than with Toronto-based singer Edwin?
With all doubts cast aside about his ability to produce quality rock and roll, Edwin has established himself as one of the premiere faces in Canadian music. His debut album, Another Spin around the Sun, has just about achieved double-platinum status and his performance last Friday only proves why.
The night’s festivities began with warm-up acts Templar and Zuckerbaby. Both bands were able to effectively energize the almost sold-out audience preparing them for a long night of music. Particular mention has to go to Templar’s courageous rendition of Led Zeppelin’s classic tune "Whole Lotta Love" and Zuckerbaby’s new material "Holiday."
Shortly before 10 p.m., Edwin and his band took to the stage and began a very enthusiastic set.
With all the attention focused on Edwin, he and the other members of his band broke into solid, creative pieces. Tracks like "And You" and "Amazing" became appetizers for a hungry audience. Among the cheers and screams, Edwin performed flawlessly, with a surprising degree of tightness that many new bands recognizably do not have.
Moving through the beams of stage lighting clad in leather, Edwin continuously impressed audience members. Such songs as "Hang Ten," "Alive," and "Trippin" were welcomed graciously by keen onlookers. The guitars, percussion and the accompaniment of a great voice combined to only confirm Edwin’s place as a stand-up rock and roll artist.
Despite the separation from his former band I Mother Earth, Edwin was able to play a famed tune from his days as a frontman for IME. He explicitly expressed his anger about having to sing,"once an original, now a fucking cover," but "One More Astronaut" came out sounding better than it ever has.
Overall, the performances of Edwin, Templar and Zuckerbaby was a quality evening of entertainment; let’s just hope that future on campus gigs can live up to the good fall start.