As expected, J Mascis walked on stage to a hero's welcome. Armed only with an acoustic guitar (well, and a music stand, sheet music and lamp), Mascis gave the impression that his set would consist entirely of introspective numbers from his new solo album, Several Shades of Why. But anyone familiar with his past performances knew better than to expect the aging alt-rocker to provide a night free of earplugs. While he stayed true to the new album, he also worked in some Dino Jr. classics like "Get Me" and "Alone," which saw him unleash a ridiculous solo that required pedals and ringing volume. As an added bonus, opener Kurt Vile and Broken Social Scenester Kevin Drew joined him on vocals for single "Not Enough," which as predictable as it was (they were both on his album and in the building) added to the overall warmth generating in the room.
J Mascis
Great Hall, Toronto ON March 11
BY Cam LindsayPublished Mar 14, 2011