Danny Michel: One-light, one-amp, one-man band

What does a musician who uses electronics as a key element in his act do about "Earth Hour"? Last night at his packed-house concert in Guelph, Ontario, Danny Michel explained: "When we booked this gig several months ago, we didn't realize at the time that the concert was actually going to happen at the same time as "Earth Hour". So tonight we have limited the lighting to a single spotlight, I'm only using one guitar amp instead of my usual two, and I didn't use any aerosol gel to make my hair look like this. Instead I used Coke."

Singer, songwriter and musician extraordinaire, Danny Michel never disappoints. Whether accompanied by his full rock band or sitting on a stool at Hugh's Room playing an acoustic six-string or performing solo like he did last night at the Dublin Street United Church with his trademark red Epiphone electric guitar and array of foot-pedal electronic toys, Danny commands the rapt attention of his audience. The lyrics he writes can sometimes be sober and cautionary, as in the title track from his seventh and newest CD, "Feather, Fur and Fin" and "If God's On Your Side". At other times his songs are whimsical and humorous as in "Whale of a Tale" inspired by a mostly one-sided conversation at a bar. And often, as in "I Will Love You for Miles", Danny's music is intimately romantic. But, whatever the mood of the song, I found myself listening intently so as to not miss a single delicious word that this fine Canadian poet had penned.

And, as if his compelling lyrics and unique, mesmerizing voice were not enough, you should see this guy play guitar! With artistic flare and technical precision, Danny uses his electronic loop-back machine to create the sound of a full band while he picks out exciting lead blues riffs and slide guitar solos. What a showman!

Dublin Street United Church has been host to many live concerts over the years and it is acoustically perfect for the likes of Danny Michel. He took full advantage of the venue and played the room like the masterful performer that he is earning a standing ovation from the appreciative audience. And all in the subdued glow of a single yellow spotlight.

Visit http://Living-Room-Concerts.ca to find out how you can host a concert in your living room.