Last night my brother and I finally got to see Dan Fogelberg live after 30 years of listening to is great music. He and his band put on a marvelous show lasting almost 2 hours at Casino Rama in Orillia, Ontario. The set list was similar to those reviewed from previous concerts on this tour. I do wish that he had sung "Longer", however there was no second encore, largely, I believe, owing to the fact that the venue was a casino, and too many people left to get back to the slot machines, which was a shame.

It did not detract, however, from the quality of the show. Dan's voice was in great form, and the sound technician's did a great job mixing. 2 large video screens, one on either side of the stage, helped to show Dan close-up when he was seated at the piano, as well as zooming in to his fine guitarmanship when that was being featured. The band was very tight and very into the music with Dan. My favourite part was the acoustic set which really showed off Dan's fantastic guitar skills and his voice. I'm amazed that he can make the songs sound brand new, even when they're 25 years old. I'm equally amazed that he can put that much feeling into a show, and then turn around and do it all over again one or two nights later. The best song (at least last night) was "Another Auld Lang Syne" which Dan sang and played solo on the piano. Just blew me away. I must admit, as Dan sang "Leader Of The Band", my thoughts ran to my own father who passed away 9 years ago, and brought a lump to my throat. Anyone who thinks music (especially Dan's music) can't move you, must not be breathing !!

Dan encored with "There's A Place In The World For A Gambler" and the audience loved it, albeit it was a somewhat reserved audience the entire show. Once again, too many casino goers and not enough concert goers. I hope to see Dan at another type of venue in the future, but if he comes back to Rama again, I'll be there.

Dan, thanks for 30 years of great music, and thanks for putting on a great show. And please don't wait another 30 years to come and perform again in Canada !!

B. Flemington,
Barrie, Ontario