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Barney Bentall in Concert
Though he came out of the Vancouver bar scene and scored his major-label deal while gigging in Toronto, Barney Bentall's soul belongs to the heartland. Fronting his backing band the Legendary Hearts (named for the Lou Reed album of the same name), Bentall broke through with a smooth take on roots rock and a vivid storytelling sensibility (informed by his Bernie Taupin–esque songwriting partner, Gary Fraser) that recalled the working-class character studies of Bruce Springsteen, John Cougar Mellencamp and Tom Petty. Bentall's signature 1988 single "Something to Live For" made him an instant presence on mainstream Canadian rock radio, thanks to its soaring, sing-along chorus hook and universal story of a young man dreaming of leaving his dead-end, low-paying job behind in pursuit of a greater purpose in life. The success of that song — and the accompanying self-titled debut album — earned Bentall and his band the Most Promising Group of the Year nod at the 1989 Juno Awards and, for the better part of the next decade, they continued to chart with jangly, easygoing rockers like "Doin' Fine" and campfire-ready serenades like "Livin' in the ‘90s" that felt as worn-in and familiar as an old denim jacket. But with the music industry's focus shifting away from his brand of earnest, no-frills rock, Bentall disbanded the Legendary Hearts in 1997 and opted for a quiet life of raising his family on a cattle farm in the Cariboo region of British Columbia. During that period, Bentall continued to perform sporadically in intimate acoustic settings, and that folkie aesthetic would gradually spur his next phase. Starting with his Juno-nominated 2006 comeback effort ‘Gift Horse' (produced by Blue Rodeo's Jim Cuddy), Bentall has released a series of solo albums that offer an earthier, whiskey-steeped spin on the sort of heartfelt songcraft he mined with his former band. And continuing in that homespun vein, Bentall's 2017 release The Drifter and the Preacher is a true family affair, with lyrics inspired by his Baptist-priest father and contributions from his son Dustin, a highly regarded singer-songwriter in his own right.
Had a great night out with all the kids! Saw our old neighbor David Hughes and She Stole My Beer for an epic set before BBATLH came on. The Commodore never disappoints and neither did these bands. Thanks for a great night! Also the staff at the Commodore are always a pleasure!
Not impressed with the security before I got in the front door. I had to explain the contents of everything in my purse and in my pockets to a male security guard. Should have a female security present to do this. Not impressed he made me feel like I was a criminal. Barney Bentall was excellent.
Love these guys never disappoint ! Commodore always an awesome venue!
Barney Bentall and the Legendary Hearts are just that… Legendary! Always a good time watching the guys hit the stage playing their classics and some of Barney’s newer material… They rock just as hard as they did 30 years ago and as long as they play, I’ll keep coming back for more!
Great energy from opening number to final song. Both bands gave the audience their best work. Excellent price at a classic venue.
Arden is always a great place to see a show. Barney Bentall is a good entertainer.
The Odd was the opening act and they rocked !! hell, I would have paid the ticket price just to see them. Then Barney came on and continued to rock out the place. Was a sick show. Even had Colin James step up for a song !! So freakin happy I saw this show.
Went to Barney Bentall on saturday night at the Commadore with no expectations . Wow ! What a show . Odds were fantasic . Really tight and then to have Collin James show up and play a couple of numbers was a huge bonus . Barney was really fantastic as well . His voice and his ability to rock it hasn't changed over the years . He said it was a magical night and we felt it for sure . They looked like they were all having a great time on stage .
Wow, a magical intimate venue, where you and the artist can interact. Really personal afternoon, with one of the Canadian greats. Great concept, Barney was as always, touching and deep. A great Canadian gem, who isn't appreciated enough for his talents.
Excellent great show -small venue & great sound ! Very social!
