Originally Published: 2005-11-27

JOHN CALE: This legendary rocker is in The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a co-founder of sonic pioneers THE VELVET UNDERGROUND, and his body of solo and production work is equally formidable. Once a regular visitor to Toronto, he hasn't gigged here in a while. Judging by the good-sized crowds at his three day Lula Lounge stint, he has been making some younger fans too. His new CD, Black Acetate, is having an impact, and he concentrated on its material for much of his set. The musically chameleonic Cale (looking very fit at 63) and his three-piece band were mostly in guitar rock mode here. That suited strong new songs like "Woman" and "Perfect," but occasionally the rifferama sounded a bit dated. When he played ke yboards, Cale's dramatic and virile voice was given more room to shine. He mixed in earlier solo classics like "Helen Of Troy," "Guts," and the gorgeous "Leaving It All Up To You," while his older fans reveled in his choice of the brilliant "Pablo Picasso" as the encore. Good to have him back. Performing solo, the under-rated PRIYA THOMAS had the tough job of opening the show, and she'd be better served using a band.
TOM WILSON & BOB LANOIS: This dynamic Hamilton duo closed out a series of 50 shows with an intimate performance at The Drake. They deserved a larger crowd, but those in attendance were enthralled by a riveting performance. Tom's talent as a singer/songwriter is well-known via JUNKHOUSE and BLACKIE AND THE RODEO KINGS, while ace producer Lanois (DANIEL's older brother) is relatively new to performance. Together, they recorded the mellow and spare album, The Shack Recordings Part 1, and brought a fresh energy to those songs here. Newer material for a Part 2 was equally strong, with Bob singing lead on the lovely "Under A Stormy Sky." The real revelation of the night was harmony vocalist RUSSELL WILSON, and his gorgeously soulful voice. It can be compared to AARON NEVILLE's, so no surprise to hear he's in increasing demand. He told On The Beat he has a solo CD, Sentimental Fool, ready for release, and we'll definitely investigate that.

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