Ottawa’s DJ Illo kept the early crowd entertained with a continuous flow of tunes spanning genres.
As part of a mini tour of drive-in shows in Ontario, Big Wreck made a stop at in Ottawa at the Drive-In Experience at Wesley Clover Parks.
Vocalist, guitarist and founding member Ian Thornley led the band through hits a few deep cuts from the band’s 20+ year catalogue.
A recent addition to the band’s touring lineup, Chris Caddell capably handles guitar and backing vocal duties.
The stage at Wesley Clover Parks is an impressive production, and the visuals provided by the screens and stage lighting make it an entertaining experience.
Bassist Dave McMillan’s stage energy and skills always shine on songs like “Ghosts,” which evolved into an extended jam last night, with refrains of “Voodoo Chile” thrown in along the way.
Clearly happy to be back in action, Ian Thornley joked with the crowd about the challenges of playing in such cold temperatures, but ensured that we’d still get the “broad strokes.”
Drummer Chuck D. Keeping is the foundation of this incredibly solid band, and could frequently be seen exchanging smiles and glances with the guys as they rolled through their set.
Chris Caddell and Dave McMillan share a laugh.
The process and setup at The Drive-In Experience at Wesley Clover Parks was sound. It appeared well-organized and orderly, and everyone seemed to have a great time. I think it’s safe to say that audiences were grateful for the opportunity to experience live music together again.
Ian Thornley is a true triple-threat: outstanding singer, guitarist and songwriter.
Despite the cold, Ian’s guitar work was absolutely stellar as usual, and he took frequent opportunities to wow the fans with extended solos, and surprises such as when the band segued from “Come Again” into a cover of “Sunday Bloody Sunday.”