Suzie McNeil (TIFF Lightbox, March 20)

As the second of two introductions to Neil Young's Heart of Gold concert film (following Emm Gryner) Suzie McNeil came on stage in her distinctive fashion style. I was impressed with her vocals as accompanied by a male acoustic guitarist she covered the song that made her cry as Neil played it for the closing ceremonies of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
Following this song our surprise was that she called Emm Gryner back onstage for a shared tribute to Mr. Young and a cover of Heart of Gold. It wasn't quite the surprise we'd hoped for of the man himself showing up, but it was enjoyable nonetheless.

Emm Gryner (TIFF Lightbox, March 20)

Familiar with Emm Gryner's name I was impressed by the long list of her accomplishments read as her introduction. In turn she was there as an introduction to Neil Young's Heart of Gold concert film. Covering Neil's Hey Hey My My (Into the Black) accompanied by her electric guitarist, Jordan, she held her own on a stellar song. Her high-heeled boots were a little funny but her voice was strong and obviously a departure from the original, but retaining the feel of the song. Unfortunately the song was not featured in the film for direct comparison, however she did return alongside Suzie McNeil for a rendition of the film's title track. The back and forth with Suzie was okay, brought down by a few flubbed lines on both parts, but the mix of acoustic and electric guitar carried them along.