Whether you've heard about him as the Grammy nominated arranger/producer who worked with Feist on Let It Die or for his talents as prodigious piano player, there's nothing in this guy's Resume to leave a music lover indifferent. This is why I just had to attend his concert at the newly renovated concert venue at L'eXcentris last weekend. The outcome was rather surprising to say the least. Clearly, I wasn't the only Montrealer who just had to see the virtuoso in action. The lineup started at the very back of the theater and even stretched to the street.

My first impression of the new concert venue was excellent: classy place, relaxed atmosphere, pretty to look at, comfortable to sit or stand in and the sound was great as well. The room is arranged on three levels so no matter where you're sitting, you can see the action on stage. Also, it's pretty great to have a venue where you can either sit or stand and see just as well either way. Kudos on the renovations! The lights could use some work, though they're still miles ahead of most venues in our beautiful city.

If you're still reading this, it's probably because you want to hear about Gonzales. My sources tell me that his shows are never the same from one time to the next. He previously made an appearance in Montreal with a full band which certainly didn't give off the same results as Saturday. For this show, the stage was set up with two grand pianos back to back, fitting into each other yin-yang-style. Gonzales began by performing some solo pieces on the piano that would've impressed even the harshest of critics. Truth is, the man is a virtuoso. His playing demonstrates not only a true understanding of the necessary orchestration of a melody, but also the capacity to make it happen on a piano with only two hands.

Not only can he play like a mad man, but he also has a fantastic stage presence. Giggles were heard throughout the room when he made his entrance dressed in a satin robe, a scarf, and white gloves. Every musical guest that entered the stage were also wearing white gloves. As far as guests go, he had So-Called accompany him on the second grand piano for a great part of the show. Katie Moore also climbed up for a few songs. If I were a true journalist, I would've written down the name of the other guest from Star Académie, who was welcomed on stage by Gonzales with comments meant to discourage the snobbish impressions of the Indie lovers in the room (his words, not mine).

With Gonzales, little banter between songs take on the proportions of a talk show. Like the true showman that he is, he entertained not only with his prodigious piano playing, but also with his humorous, unpretentious and easy-going presence. I'd definitely see him again, if only to see what other tricks he has up his sleeve.

---

---

Post a comment

Name:

Email Address:

URL:
Remember Me? YesNo

Comments: (you may use HTML tags for style)

---