Buffalo, NY - The Tralf - November 9 & 10, 2007

Chuck's Review

I was very excited to see these Buffalo dates announced because I just happen to have made plans to visit my family in Buffalo that same weekend. I currently live in Napa California and I don't think that Blue Rodeo ever gets out to the San Francisco Bay area. (Hint Hint Boys) The show was just as great as I had hoped. Some really nice jamming and it was great to hear all the new songs. Ron Sexsmith and Luke Doucet were really fun to have along as well. Everyone thought that they would be an opening act but it was even better to have them sitting in. Luke is really great guitar player and Ron is such a great writer. I took my brother, who didn't know about Blue Rodeo and he said he was impressed with the band and thought they were able to command many styles extremely well. I agree. Great band, great songs, great musicians. Now get some San Francisco dates booked guys!

Posted at 11:36 AM | permalink | discuss this!

Atlanta, GA - Smith's Old Bar - October 30, 2007

Robby's Review

This is not so much a review, but simply a thank you. I have been listening to you guys for more than 15 years and had never heard of you being on tour in the Atlanta area, so when I had the chance to see you last Tuesday I was psyched. You guys blew me away. To see a band of your quality in a setting with only a couple hundred people is an amazing experience. The fact that you brought the three young guys on tour with you was just icing on the cake. It added another level of interest and energy, and of course music to an already phenomenalshow. It was clear that you two are mentoring them and the looks on your faces when they were playing was that of a amused, but proud father or big brother---great band, great music and I guess you're pretty good guys to boot.

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Annapolis - Ram's Head Live - October 29, 2007

Brian's Review

Wish you'd hit the states more often! The last time I saw Blue Rodeo live it had to be 1996 (I still have the promo CD Blew It Again dated 1995 that was handed out at the show). Great mix of old and new songs and as usual the band got the crowd involved. I could not ask for a better venue, small enough to feel like you're part of the band. I had not heard the new CD, so I bought it at the show and it sounds great. Cuddy and Keelor still know how to put on a show and it's their personal styles that make Blue Rodeo so good.

Posted at 11:41 AM | permalink | discuss this!

Cleveland, OH - Beachland Ballroom - October 27, 2007

Duane's Review

I had bought tickets to Ryan Adams before I found out BR was coming to town. Last time in town was two years ago and Greg was missing so this show was a no brainer. Everyone was anxiously waiting. My wife and I 2nd row from stage. I love that us Americans are musically challenged because I get to see the best band in the world so close I can touch them. I knew they would open with "Come On" as soon as I heard it on the website. They played a couple more songs before getting into some older favorites that most everyone up front started singing along to. Jim seemed to get a little flustered when a cute young girl was having some fun with him and he forgot the lyrics, very humorous!

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Gregory's Review

I have seen Blue Rodeo several times in Cleveland. The Beachland Ballroom is an intimate setting for their music. They played many of their hits and several songs off their new CD. Ron and the boys who followed Blue Rodeo for this tour were great. The acoustics at this venue are sharp and it good to see that a great Ontario band tours through Cleveland. After the show, they signed autographs including my Molson Export Bubba Can. Keep writing great music eh!

Posted at 11:49 AM | permalink | discuss this!

Chicago, IL - Martyr's Pub - October 26, 2007

Mark's Review

Ever have a good friend recommend a new album or artist? "Trust me, you'll love it..." they say. Well, that is exactly what the current Blue Rodeo tour is like. Blue Rodeo and Friends invaded Martyrs in Chicago and did not disappoint. The boys shared the stage with some very talented musicans and the show provided a glimpse into the next generation of Canadian rock talent. The show opened with "C'mon," a sampling off the new album, Small Miracles. The band played other songs off the new album including "So Far Away," "Black Ribbon" and "Blue House." The sound is classic Blue Rodeo and is sure be loved by Blue Rodeo fans. Friends Justin Rutledge, Luke Doucet and Ron Sexsmith each took the stage and rocked the house with their own material. While each artist has their own unique sound, it was clear that their respective styles were well received by the packed crowd. Having lived in Chicago for over three years, I am seriously starved for the Canadian music scene. This show curbed my appetite and these three young artists will feed my hunger for years to come.

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Glenda's Review

Wow! Blue Rodeo still rocks after all these years. Many of us Canadian expats in Illinois braved the traffic on Friday night to head into Chicago to hear our favorite guys at the infamous Martyr's Pub. It was like having a private concert in your living room after seeing them in many larger venues in Canada...they played a mix of new and old and showcased some new talent to boot as they brought several newbies in to strut their stuff,,,,the ever favorite Ron Sexsmith who we last saw at the Black Sheep in Chelsea; Luke Doucet, a terrifc example of yet another energetic talent from down east and Justin Rutledge who was mesmerizing. Such talent for almost 2-and-a-half-hours. It's why we keep coming back and waiting anxiously for the next release!!!

Posted at 11:57 AM | permalink | discuss this!

Gananoque, ON - Festival of the Islands - August 17, 2007

Lousie's Review

My 15 year old daughter, my husband and I made the drive to Gananoque from Ottawa Friday afternoon. It was one of those beautiful travelling days where the sky is a deep shade of blue and full of fluffy white clouds. Unfortunately, by the time we set up camp and headed into Gananoque for dinner and the show, it started to rain.

We headed for the fairgrounds to scope out the digs. We were greeted with the site of 1000 lawnchairs already set up, with nobody sitting in them. It seems that you could set up your chair in advance to reserve your spot! We had lawnchairs in our van but didn't want to be stuck watching the show sitting down so we left our chairs behind. In the past I have fallen into the trap of sitting at a show, thinking you can stand and dance when the music starts. People behind you who don't want to stand get very annoyed by this. There were 2 narrow areas along either side of all of these lawnchairs for people like me to stand and watch the concert. Our spot was occupied by a large puddle that nobody wanted to step into. But, when the music started, I didn't mind trading in my pedicure for a spot almost at the front of the stage.

The show was fantastic. It was the closest that I have ever been to the band. Having seen Blue Rodeo at Bluesfest in July where 20 000 people wanted the best spot to stand this show was much different. I was terribly disappointed that the people in the lawn chairs who had the best spots to connect with the band didn't even seem that interested. I barely saw people singing along. I don't get that. How do you not sing along to Blue Rodeo!!?? The band played some terrific instrumental riffs during some of their best songs. And I love the new stuff! Can't wait for the CD to come out.

The highlight for me came during the encore. A lot of the crowd had started to move their lawn chairs and leave which made room front and centre for my fellow standers and I to swarm to front and centre stage. It worked out well, because it really started pouring by now! I brought my 15 year old because she is a big fan. Blue Rodeo sung us across Canada and back and sharing this show was special. Thanks for a great night guys!

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 Carol's Review

The show was GREAT. I have been listening for years, and yet this was the first time I was able to see the Band Live. I just wanted it to go on forever. Really enjoyed myself. I am looking forward to doing it again. Rain or Shine. 

Posted at 5:14 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Regina, SK - Regina Folk Festival - August 12, 2007

Shirley's Review

What a great night for a concert! While the temperature was a bit cool in Regina, it didn't feel like it standing with the crowd for another great Blue Rodeo show! We've managed to see Blue Rodeo almost everytime they've travelled through Saskatchewan in the past 6 years and they've never failed!

They played all of our favorite songs, some that we've never heard live; "Moon and Tree" was amazing, but "Side of the Road" (one of the best) was simply beautiful! The quiet rendition had most (including ourselves) experiencing an out of body experience. Standing next to the tower of speakers is the best place to be, where you can here the music REALLY LOUD! Thanks again for another great show!

Posted at 4:50 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Vancouver, BC - Malkin Bowl - August 24 & 25, 2007

Michael's Review

Two Nights in August. It wasn't five days in May but rather two glorious nights of Blue Rodeo at the Malkin Bowl in beautiful Stanley Park in Vancouver. This concert has become an annual event for me and as always, the band put on a great show. What a wonderful way to spend two evenings listening to this legendary Canadian band in one of the most beautiful venues in all of Canada. And not a cloud in the sky this year for both shows! Great set lists with a good blend of fan favourites sprinkled with several excellent new songs! I loved the encore with "Four Strong Winds"! At this point in their career it is tough for the band to satisfy all folks with song selection as they have such an extensive catalogue of music. This is truly a testament to their longevity as one of Canada's most beloved bands! Thanks for two great nights at the Malkin Bowl. And more importantly, thanks for 20-plus years of great music! And based on the new songs there is more yet to come.

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M's Review

As a 50's, long-time fan who has never (shame) seen BR live, the anticipation leading up to the outdoor concert in Stanley Park was huge. A cloudy, ready to rain day turned beautiful just before BR took the stage and all expectations of a great summer concert were not only met, but far exceeded. One of the best attributes (aside from the outstanding song writing and melodies) of BR is the fact that both JC and GK are fantastic frontmen, with separate styles that really add to the enjoyment of listening to an extended set. What really impressed me, and you can only experience it live, is what truly great musicians all the guys are. 2 solid hours (no breaks!!)of old favourites and great new songs as well - absolutely one of the best concerts I've ever attended. Will NOT be missing any more local BR dates!!!

Posted at 12:14 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Toronto, ON - Molson Amphitheatre - August 22, 2007

Marlo's Review

I attended your concert on Wednesday night at the Molson Amphitheatre...the only thing I can say is ....you were and are incredible...

Just wanted to say "thanks" for an incredible evening...being up on stage you probably do not get the opportunity to see what goes on in the back rows... sorry...paid for the cheap seats...money's been tight lol...husbands and wives dancing together ...Parents introducing their kids to Blue Rodeo...the next generation of Blue Rodeo fans ...I saw a little blonde-haired girl about five-years-old just dancing her little heart away...she trulyloved it... even senior citizens gettin down...lol ...everyone was smiling, laughing and singing.

There wasn't one unhappy person there last night it was a beautiful site.... people were singing and still dancing their way to their cars...by the way I LOVED that new song ...come on... come on

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Kim's Review

There's something to be said about sitting on the lawn at the Molson Amphitheatre, under the stars, looking out at the Exhibition lights glittering in the night, and groovin' to the sweet sounds of Blue Rodeo. It doesn't get more Canadian than that! Once again the boys pulled off a stellar performance, making every one of us out there feel as though we were the only ones there that night. The show was a balance of new and old, as Jim and Greg made intro to some of their latest singles. For all of you that have never had the pleasure of the amphitheatre - Blue Rodeo experience - it's a must. So "C'mon" out next year for an unforgettable evening of great music, comfy blankets, and good times.

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Trisha's Review

Your concert in Toronto was fantastic. Your new songs that you played were great. I know the rest of the songs on the CD well be sensational as usual. Can't wait to hear your touring dates, as always I never get enough of your music. I liked your new arrangements with the older songs that you did. You are all very talented and I don't think you get enough credit! You sure left a great impression in Jarvis, they are still talking about you on the streets as the show was outstanding. You always put a personal touch in your smaller shows. Take care and see you at the next concert.

Posted at 12:26 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Ottawa, ON - Bluesfest - July 12, 2007

Tyler's Review 

A fan for years, I had never had the opportunity to see Blue Rodeo live. When I found about the show in Ottawa I was excited to see them. From the time they took the stage to the time they finished the encore it was electric. Ottawa is not known for having good concert crwods, but the band brought the best out of them. The venue was rockin' from start to end. I hate myself for not seeing them earlier but also look forward to seeing them again and again!

Posted at 4:02 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Lewiston, NY - Artpark - June 12

Sandy's Review

I have seen Blue Rodeo every tine that they are around the Buffalo or Southern Ontario area. Always have a good tine. Love you guys!! Listen, dance and sing to you at home, all the time....Artpark was the best!! What a beautiful place to have a concert!! That's what summer concerts are all about. Thank you so much for such a good time and to rejuvenate my soul, once again.

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Barb's Review

Went to the concert at Artpark and had a blast. It was an old time BR concert. All the oldies but goodies. I had the pleasure of standing right in the front and enjoyed every minute of the show. These guys are great. After the show, Jim and some of the members came out for autographs and pictures. It was terrific. I try to see them every chance that I can. I absolutely love the music and they put on a great show with such great personalities. They show us that they love their music as much as we do.

Posted at 12:09 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Sunderland, ON - Sunderland Arena - May 26, 2007

Kim's Review

What could be better than standing a few feet away from the stage in a little town like Sunderland's Arena? The night was warm, and the lights criss-crossed behind Jim and Greg all night long. The band played all of our favorites. The crowd was wild, and intent, and yet intimate at the same time. Jim taked to the crowd and we all led the band in "We are lost together". What a fabulous evening; up close and personal.

Posted at 3:46 PM | permalink | discuss this!

Bala, ON - The Kee - May 18, 2007

Kristen Lock's Review

You guys were amazing as usual! This was my sixth time seeing you at the Kee and it definitely beats other venues hands down. All winter I look forward to singing along with you to kick off my summer! I really enjoyed your selections this year, because you stuck with your hits that we all know and can dance to! Please continue coming to the Kee on the May 24! Have a great year guys!

Posted at 10:52 AM | permalink | discuss this!

Stratford, ON - Festival Theatre - January 26, 2007

Jennifer DeSimone's Review 

I made the trek from Florida to Stratford, ON, to the confusion of many.  Folks who live down south don't often wander to the north in the winter time.  They find that type of behaviour a bit puzzling!  Generally, folks are coming in the opposite direction.  But not me - I braved the freezing temperatures to see Blue Rodeo, and I couldn't be happier that I did.

Friday night I entered the Festival Theatre in Stratford and I was amazed as I walked past an opening that gave me a view into the theatre. Once I saw the actual venue and how absolutely charming the theatre was, my excitement grew to a near explosive level.  I thought there wasn't a way that I could possibly become more content than I was at that moment.  The actual location and perfection of my seats topped it all.

This, of course, was my first time attending the Stratford shows and festivities, and the weekend was more than I ever had hoped for. Friday night's show was like being taken up in an enchanting whirlwind that had been made of everything magical to me.  The set list could not have been better had I written it myself. From the very first song, "What Am I Doing Here" to the very last "Rose Coloured Glasses" and every song in between, it was absolute perfection.

The first set included gems such as "Til I Am Myself Again," "Palace Of Gold," "Rena," "Five Days In May," "English Bay," "Joker's Wild," "Rain Down On Me," "Dark Angel," "Photograph," "Stage Door" (courtesy of Mr. Donovan), "Homeward Bound Angel," "Glad To Be Alive" and "Trust Yourself."  "Rain Down On Me" was incredible to see and hear in the Festival Theatre.  It was one of my long time favourite songs and hearing it Friday night brought tears to my eyes.

During intermission everyone was in a state of astonishment.  The crowd was a sea of "I can't believe they played!"  I couldn't wait for the second half to begin. I didn't think it would be possible, but the second set was more amazing than the first. The set opened with the acoustic versions of "Is It You," "Til I Gain Control Again" and "Lost Together."  I was awestruck. "Is It You" was the absolute highlight of the show for me. It was utterly extraordinary.

The second set carried on in the same fashion: "Five AM," "House Of Dreams," " Love And Understanding," "Diamond Mine," "Try," "Moon And Tree," "It Could Happen To You," "Side Of The Road" and "Hasn't Hit Me Yet."  At this point in the night, I was sure each song was picked especially for me; it was one favourite after another. They were songs I listen to all the time and never thought I would see or hear them in Stratford!

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Stratford, ON - Festival Theatre - January 27, 2007

Ray Horan's Review

The Canadian Border Patrol agent at the Peace Bridge entering into Canada wasn’t on horseback, nor was he armed (that I saw).  However, he was slightly alarmed when he asked, “Where are you going?”

“To Stratford,” I said.

“What for?” was his reply.

When I told him I was heading there for a concert he simply smiled and said, “Have fun.”

I doubted that he knew I was heading to the annual weekend in the Blue Rodeo mecca known as Stratford....or maybe he did? But with little fanfare and no request for identification, I was officially entering Canada on my trek to meet up with my crazy friends. He didn’t even seem dismayed that a 'lil blue monkey was hanging from the rear view mirror!
A quick stop to pick up my co-pilot in Niagara and the drive was on. The weather conspired to slow us down - (oh yeah – they do get snow in Canada during January) - but nonetheless we arrived in time to check in to our respective hotels and meet friends for dinner. I have to mention briefly that after the Friday show I could not imagine the weekend getting any better. But friends kept saying, “Wait until the Saturday night show,” implying that I was in for a bigger treat!

I’ve been trying to make it to Stratford for three years now, and it almost seemed surreal to actually have arrived. The town, as people know, is quaint and friendly. The locals are used to it being overrun by crazies this time of year. In fact, the first local person I met asked me if I was in town for the concerts. The weekend was spent meeting friends, some that I’ve only corresponded with as well as a few I've met in person. What great people one and all.  The meet & greet which was beyond my expectations was a perfect lead into the Saturday night show.

The boys were in great spirits and the Festival Theater really doesn’t have a bad seat in the house. There I sat, on Greg's side, soaking up the anticipation from the crowd. “Ode to Billy Joe” trumpeted their arrival and then it was non-stop excitement!  I have to be honest here. I’ve seen Blue Rodeo many times since that little bar in Buffalo back in the late eighties and my biggest fear was that this show would be too heavy on the standard songs. I was not disappointed. With two sets I expected them to pull out one or two stops, but they went way beyond that. I even heard “Dragging On” from Tremolo and then Bazil sang the lead on “Stage Door.”

The entire concert included a great cross-section of songs from nearly all the albums. There seemed to be new life breathed into songs like “Try” and “Glad To Be Alive.”  The setllist is included in the Blue Rodeo Discussion Board forums. There were a few funny moments, including when Jim referred to Bob Packwood as a diva because he was late returning from the intermission. He proceeded to tell everyone that he was trying the wigs on backstage and even asked Greg if he was wearing one. Greg also had fun responding to a fan who kept calling out “We’re over here!” He sang an impromptu song about attention-seeking and self-gratification. I don’t think I can repeat it here verbatim!  Having only seen the boys stateside, what fan wouldn’t want to experience a concert on their home soil with a thousand-or-so Canadians, eh? My seat on the side gave me the perfect vantage point to watch the band as well as the crowd. When Greg stepped out front to lead the crowd in “Hasn’t Hit Me Yet,” I was more enthralled watching the fans.

I still get a little giddy writing this because the event known as Stratford was more than everyone had told me it was going to be. But alas, I did have to make the return trip stateside and am already pondering revisiting in 2008.

Posted at 1:00 PM | permalink | discuss this!

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