Alan Doyle Brings East Coast Feel to Brockville Arts Centre

Alan Doyle is a cut above the rest in terms of charm and commitment to a light-hearted, feel good performance.

I’m not sure if it’s the fellow Newfoundlander in me, or just a dedicated music lover, but there’s no way to deny the power of a methodical fiddle player while you scream along to the chorus of Great Big Sea’s “Up.” It’s impossible not to get lost in the “Sea of No Cares,” and no one ever leaves an Alan Doyle (Great Big Sea’s longtime front-man) show without a feel good smile on their face.

The two hour performance featured an energetic mix of old and new material spanning his whole band and solo career, as well as no shortage of east coast humour, crowd interaction, and staggering musicality. From shanties, to waltz numbers, to pop hits, and even an A Capella encore, this show had it all.

Making it that much more auspicious was the supreme location. The Brockville Arts Centre is a maverick performance theatre. It is picturesque and a tremendous architectural marvel.

There isn’t much bad I can highlight about this concert. Other than I wish I could enjoy some old black rum with Alan and play some down-home folk songs every night of the week.

Until next time, byy.

(photos by Ron Pettitt Images from the tour stop at the Kingston Grand Theatre in February)