January 30, 2005
Publication title: CanWest News, vol. -, Iss. -, pg. –
Place: Vancouver
Writer: Unknown
Concert for tsunami relief Canada’s biggest
VANCOUVER – As concerts go, there is none bigger than the Concert for Tsunami Relief.
Or more urgent.
On Saturday night at GM Place in Vancouver, some of the top names in Canadian talent rallied, including: Sarah McLachlan, Avril Lavigne, Barenaked Ladies, Chantal Kreviazuk with Raine Maida, Delerium, Sum 41 and hosts Rick Mercer and Brent Butt.
It was a show that was sold soon after it was announced, which was not long after the disaster happened. As the death and destruction mounted in South Asia _ reaching up to 220,000 dead a month after the tsunami waves did their damage, the show’s lineup was finalized. Around the world, there have been benefits for aid, but this was the biggest one-night event in Canada, with organizer Terry McBride _ the Nettwerk boss who represents the artists who took part _ hoping to raise $2 million with another such fundraiser in Calgary coming Monday night.
With Sarah McLachlan fronting Delerium, it was a good way to start the show, by telling the audience that anything was possible.
Delerium was a surprise in that we have got used to the band being solely the studio project (and product) of Bill Leeb and Rhys Fulber. Yet here was a six-piece band and the music was handmade. What is ethereal on record is much more muscular and dramatic live.
Rick Mercer made us welcome with comedian Brent Butt looking over his shoulder. Butt introduced a short film outlining the work of War Child Canada and a brief interview with McLachlan.
On the concourse, Doctors Without Borders dispensed information, not expecting to reap money. Conversely, scalpers got $300 a ticket. Maybe some of that will go to tsunami relief.
Chantal K sat solo at the piano and sang songs that were passionate and heartfelt but a little strident.
When a bassist and drummer joined her, the sound naturally got fuller, but Chantal’s voice still dominated and so begged the question: Is a rhythm section really necessary?
She was joined by husband Raine Maida on guitar. The two voices merged well and the result was lovely.
It was that kind of night. Full of commitment and surprises.
