Concert Reviews

Matchbox Twenty with Counting Crows at Budweiser Stage

With the unofficial ending of summer just past us, and the cooler breeze in the air, the last few outdoor concerts are making their way through the Budweiser stage in Toronto. Hit makers Matchbox Twenty, along with Counting Crows brought their A Brief History Tour 2017 to our great city and much to the delight of the fans. 

Counting Crows took to the stage as the crowd was still filling the venue. They became on overnight success with their song Mr Jones in the early 90’s, yet much to my disappointment they chose not to play that particular song. You would kind of think with the tour called “A brief history tour” that it would be a guarantee, yet for whatever reason they chose not to perform it that night. 

Counting Crows set was solid and singer Adam Duritz displayed truly felt emotion within their songs. I felt like their stage presence was a bit slow and underwhelming. I was also kind of surprised that the band went from song to song without Duritz engaging with the audience. I suppose with them it’s all about the music and not the accessories that accompany it. 

When Matchbox Twenty took to the stage, there was a bit of a stage overhaul, different light rigging and backdrops. The lights dimmed while the band made their way to the stage and the crowd went wild. It was a completely different energy in the building, from both the performers and the crowd. 

The setlist from Matchbox Twenty was filled with nonstop hits, all easily recognizable. Songs such as Push, 3am and If you’re gone. 

I hadn’t done a whole bunch of research prior to the show, but was quite surprised how fit and young looking Rob Thomas appeared. Not only was I in for an auditory treat, but a visual treat as well! he bounced around and did what reminded me of an aerobic workout. He was full of energy and showman ship. He easily engaged with the crowd, mentioning how much he loved Toronto. 

Throughout the song Downfall, it shifted into Bob Dylans tune Knocking on Heavens door. Guitarist Kyle Cook took the vocals on this segment of the song. 

One lucky fan walked away from the show with a little extra something. Rob took the fans phone and performed nearly the entire song Disease to the lens of that phone, at one point putting it on the stage and performing above it. 

Prior to the song Hang, Thomas mentioned how no one smokes anymore so the days of lighters are long gone. But asked the crowd to light up the venue with their cell phones. A photo was captured from behind the stage of this moment by none other then Kiefer Sutherland. It can be viewed on Instagram. 

Although I felt the beginning of the show was a bit slow for my personal taste, the second half had me excited, singing along and feeling content with spending the evening with Matchbox Twenty. 

About author

Photojournalist at Live in Limbo.