Like a Good Torontonian I made my annual trek to the CNE to squeeze in the last 2 ½ weeks of summer. Of course I went off my diet and tried some of the exotic junk food. But that is not the only reason I went. I love the entertainment they line up every year.

Since they are competing with the over bloated prices of the Budweiser Stage across the bridge, it is better to stay on land and see some great live shows for just the price of admission.

After a hearty lunch, I made my way to the midway stage to see Paul James and his rendition of a Bob Dylan tribute. I am not a true Dylan fan except for his popular songs like Tangled up in Blues, and Highway 61 Revisited. He did pull out some great nuggets that the fans were actually singing to.

When Paul came back, he even did a section of artists that influenced Bob Dylan. What a fine medley of songs from Buddy Holly and Bo Diddley- “Hey Bo Diddley”!

Paul James has honed his stage craft for about 50 years and will always please a crowd wherever he goes. This is a local legend that is a must see.

Here is Paul James in Action:

Next on my list for the day, was to see Paul Langlois, from the Tragically Hip. He was the opening act for Sloan at the Bandshell. This was my second opportunity to see a member of the Hip since they retired back in 2017. The first time was when Choir,Choir,Choir did a free sing-along at Yonge/ Dundas Square and the two members came on stage and perform Grace Too, while the entire audience sang the song.

Paul Langlois walked on stage and stuck to his solo music. He has done two solo albums in the early 2010’s and is now releasing a new one called, “Guess What?” He played to a very wet but delighted crowd that wanted to be in the presence a Classic Canadian Band.

The songs were very good and the band seems to gel very well. Paul even sounded a little like Gord. He looked very pleased that people not only would show up but stand in the rain during his 45 minute set. I hope you enjoy the photo I have of a man and his how he is being a gentleman keeping his partner dry.

If you want to hear what his new music sounds like you can go to paullangloisband | Instagram, Facebook, TikTok | Linktree and listen for yourself.

Here is Paul Langlois in Action:

Unfortunately, I was soaked and was afraid my equipment would get too wet, so my review of Sloan will have to wait until the next time they come around.