Margo Price with Meels at The Phoenix Concert Theatre

Last night at Toronto’s iconic Phoenix Concert Theatre, Margo Price delivered some hot country fixin’s on a cold Toronto night. Guitarist Logan Ledger was curious how Canadians keep their fingers warm while playing. The Wild at Heart Tour has been raising the roof across North America. Margo Price is one of Americana’s most restless souls.

The evening started with my introduction to Meels, supported by guitarist and vocalist Jackson Craig. They are a wonderful compliment to each other, harmonizing warm rich tones over sublime guitar picking. It was a fantastic compact set of originals and some classic covers including Dolly Parton’s Do I Ever Cross Your Mind, John Prine’s Angel From Montgomery and The Beatles Don’t Let Me Down.

On to the headliner. The band kicked into a sort of intro jam with a swagger that blurred the lines between outlaw country and rock before Margo appeared. From the moment she stepped onto the intimate stage, Price commanded the room with a confidence that felt rooted in both her storied career and her independent artistic spirit. Price’s voice both tender and fearless cut through the air over rich guitar twang and a steady drum beat.

The setlist leaned heavily on the latest album, Hard Headed Woman. Including Don’t Wake Me Up, Red Eye Flight and Wild At Heart. Don’t Let The Bastards Get You Down definitely was a crowd-pleaser and had folks singing along. Other highlights of the night included Tennessee Song, Hurtin’ (On The Bottle) and about To Find Out.

Her storytelling gave both reverence and relevance to some wonderful covers she played. Too Stoned To Cry spoke of the vices inherent in the music industry. At one point a Roadie appeared with a plate of white powder that Margo proceeded to blow out to the audience. George Jones’ I Just Don’t Give A Damn was recognized by the enthusiastic crowd. Margo paused to tell the audience the song (Get Your Tongue Out Of My Mouth While I’m) Kissing You Goodbye was inspired by Waylon Jennings lawyer and drug dealer. What a story!

Meels came back out to join Margo for the finale. They busted out a boot stompin’ rendition of Bob Dylan’s Maggie’s Farm. Everyone in the room was feeling the vibe. The evening was a night of heart, grit and a healthy portion of country soul comfort.

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Be sure to check out We Are in the Future to see what other great acts they will be bringing to Toronto this year.