John Hiatt Tickets

Legendary songwriter John Hiatt brought his “Combo” into London’s “Cowboy’s Saloon” last night for an inspired performance which those in attendance will not soon forget. The intimate crowd was in sharp contrast to the previous evening’s show before thousands at the Ottawa Bluesfest, alongside venerable drummer, and voice of “The Band” Levon Helm. Hiatt’s road crew looked somewhat weary and the band very laid-back and casual as they took to the stage. Don’t let appearances fool you! Launching into a spirited version of the anthemic “Drive South” Hiatt and his band began a series of crowd pleasing favourites and hits. “The Tiki Bar is Open” (Hiatt’s tribute to the late racing legend Dale Earnhardt) was followed by “Perfectly Good Guitar” a number which takes a tongue-in-cheek jab at “soul-less” rockers like Pete Townshend, who commit the crime of “smashing a perfectly good guitar”. “This Thing Called Love” popularized by “The Redhead” (Bonnie Raitt) and “Memphis In the Meantime” allowed Hiatt and the combo to show that they had the chops to rock with dazzling musical prowess, while heartfelt ballads “It Feels Like Rain” and encore number “Have a Little Faith In Me” were so beautifully played, they could have brought a tear to the proverbial glass eye. The evening ended with a rendition of “Riding With the King” featuring guitarist Doug Lancio’s guitar solo building to a stunning crescendo. Hiatt’s playful interaction with the audience, and appreciation and generosity towards his band members, left the crowd not just begging for more, but wanting to take this nice man home with them! Although that couldn’t be arranged, the next best thing came when he announced that he’d be “Out front signing things for a while” at the end of the show. Having just heard several tracks from Hiatt’s newest album “The Open Road” many audience members took advantage of this generous offer and had him sign their newly purchased CD’s. John Hiatt and the Combo playing Cowboy’s Saloon in London Ontario, WAS a night to remember.

What a great event. The band was tight, and Hiatt was on fire. He did a great mix of classics and material off of his new album. It was just one set, but a long one that touched every base as he hit it out of the park. The only negative was a rather subdued crowd. A few of us were swaying and cheering but a lot of folks just sat back. The venue was terrific. A club that size allows everyone a great view, and you get a full sound without losing your hearing. Would have loved to hear Buffalo River Home, but opening with Drive South got my blood rushing for the entire evening.

I have been to many musical concerts but last night with John Hiatt tops the list !!!! John sounds better than his CDs and his rapport with the audience with his humility was most impressive. His energy is endless as is his talent for song writing and musical arrangement.............he thanked his audience several times..........it truly was the best musical concert I have attended in a long time.

It is too bad that people don't know John he is such a wonderful artist and you can see he really is passionate and enjoys playing his music. It was a joy to see an artist that was there for the music not the money. I think I might even go see him tonight in London it was that good. He played all his hits and then some and his he played 5 songs from his new CD.