As a fan of Emmylou Harris, when I got a Ticketmaster alert that she and Steve Earle were doing a show here - Lampedusa, to raise funds for Jesuit Refugee Services - i scooped a ticket, tucked it away and didn't think much more about it. Sometimes the best show is the surprise epic. This was one of them. A favourite venue, venerable Massey Hall, is always a treat. But I was floored by this show!
I had no idea that Robert Plant had been added until they introduced him and he walked on stage (I've been busy...). Then, local songwriting hero Ron Sexsmoth came out, followed by a couple of kids with the less-than-promising name of the Milk Carton Kids. And they were all joined early on by Daniel Lanois.
Holy crapburgers, what a show! Eight of them lined up and seated across the stage, taking turns with various songs, backing each other up, Robert given a wee drum to play with while everyone else was playing guitar, it was epic! A great job on Copperhead Road, several songs from Wrecking Ball. After Robert Plant finished a song and introduced Ron Sexsmith, who was apparently a late addition, Ron said, Yeah, so I was at the laundromat today trying to decide what to play... hilarious reaction from Plant. The nice surprise was the Milk Carton Kids, two young guys from LA with actual talent, appropriate modesty, wicked humour and massive balls, teasing Plant and everyone else. A wonderfully surprising show. Catch it if you can!