Concert Review: Jeff Beck and Brian Wilson {Posted November 22, 2013}
Performance Date: October 26, 2013.
Location: Sony Center, Toronto, Ontario.
The show begins with Brian Wilson and his band performing acappella. The sound is amazing. All twelve members of the band sing – the trademark Beach Boys timbre fills the room.
The set continues with a choice selection of Beach Boy songs, with the highlights being Heroes and Villains, Good Vibrations, and Don’t Worry Baby, among others.
It seemed every member of the band including Beach Boy mainstay, Al Jardine, sang a recognizable number. As for Mr. Wilson, his contribution would be that of the composer. His performance was minimal to say the least. He would chime in on the odd song, barely making pitch, relying on his excellent band to carry the show.
Jeff Beck, on the other hand, came out blazing! He commanded the stage with his five piece band firmly in step, delivering his signature guitar sound with flawless execution and muscular delivery.
Yes, I am a fan.
The material touched on different periods of Beck’s 50-year career and showcased each member of the band. You can always count on Beck to have an outstanding band, one that featured an electric violinist and an additional guitarist on this show – a new approach for Beck. This combination was reminiscent of early Mahavishnu Orchestra.
The show was billed as Brian Wilson and Jeff Beck but the union of these two acts remained a little evasive. Members of Wilson’s band joined Beck on back up vocals to deliver an outstanding version of Wilson’s Surfs Up with Beck playing the melody. Then the theme relied on Beach Boy classics with Wilson’s full band joining Beck to perform classics such as, Surfin’ USA and I Get Around. Beck played the guitar solos.
The finale was Danny Boy. Again, Beck delivered a stunning rendition of the melody with the Beach Boy voices backing him up. This was a great way to end the show with something timeless and classic.
These two veterans have collaborated on a new album, yet to be released. It will be interesting to see what results from this union. Their show in Toronto left no clue of what to expect.
Chas
