Bry Webb (Live in the Stacks, Parkdale Library, Oct 26/12)

It was a splendid turnout for the first Live in the Stacks! of the season, and why not? with the calibre of talent provided by Bry Webb. Best known as the leader of the beloved Canadian rock group The Constantines, Bry has found his softer side on last year's Provider which has met critical acclaim. Many songs from that album, including Rivers of Gold, were featured from the darkened corner of the Parkdale library on this rainy, pre-Halloween night. Lit only by candles Bry strummed his guitar, primarily acoustic, backed by Mike on slide guitar, and a fellow on the stand up bass. They played the somewhat noir, brooding music beautifully to a silent and appreciative audience (it was the library after all). There were a few electric guitar songs as well, as Bry even remarked on his use of feedback in a library, among other library themed jokes. (Late fines and inappropriateness amongst the books provide so much fodder.)  Featuring a Fugs cover early, as well as Neil Young later on, there was even a stellar to-be-released Bry original added to the mix. Second from closing was Ex-Punks which hit slightly harder than the rest, due to familiarity and energy and was a definite highlight. Distanced from The Constantines by a long range now, Bry has proven that he still has much to say with his wonderful prose and excellent songwriting, even below 11 on the volume dial.