The Canadian singer-songwriter Bruce Cockburn played a solo acoustic show at New York City’s City Winery Saturday night. I had never seen Bruce Cockburn perform before, and I must admit I am unfamiliar with his music for the most part, but I am open to the new musical experience and with comparisons to  Jackson Browne and others I was at least mildly curious.

Bruce Cockburn played two nights at City Winery with the Saturday night concert only slightly more than half filled.

Mr. Cockburn walked on stage and stood in front of an assortment of  eye-catching guitars and giant chimes on either side of the stage that he would control with foot pedals.

Wearing a lavender short sleeve button down shirt and eyeglasses, the white haired gentleman appeared to be more professorial than rocker.

Bruce Cockburn opened with an acoustic number reminiscent of some of Steve Howe’s best solo work and his  “political” songs reminded me of Jackson Browne if Warren Zevon sang lead. Additionally, Mr. Cockburn’s  acoustic guitar playing style reminded me at times of his Canadian counterpart Neil Young; Bruce is clearly a talented musician.

Bruce Cockburn’s extensive catalog has been encapsulated in a box set; he has recently written a book and kiddingly referred to himself as an “author”.

Cockburn’s upcoming birthday was recognized by some in the audience and the musician seemed to reluctantly acquiesce to blowing out a lone candle after a rousing “Happy Birthday” was sung by the attentive audience.

I found Mr. Cockburn to be an excellent guitarist with intelligent lyrics whose thoughtful work I will have to investigate further.

Wondering Where the Lions Are

Rock on

GQ