Show Review - Marshall Burns

Regina Public Library
Music on the Mezzanine
July 12th, 2023

Imagine this: In 2013, during the Regina Folk Festival, a passionate music fanatic from Melville, Saskatchewan stands near the mainstage. Her eyes fixate on the band, Rah Rah, who are setting up. Rumours swirl that Rah Rah hails from Regina, but she remains stubborn, convinced that Regina lacks a local music scene. Despite her uncle’s recommendation of Rah Rah, she hesitates to give them a fair chance. However, as Rah Rah takes the stage and begins their performance, something within her shifts. Unbeknownst to her in that very moment, her life is about to change forever.

Fast forward ten years, and I find myself comfortably seated in the Mezzanine area of the Regina Public Library, awaiting a performance by none other than Marshall Burns, a former member of Rah Rah. Over the past decade, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Marshall’s performances on multiple occasions. Let me take a moment to calculate… (pauses and counts on my fingers and toes) quite a “few” times, to be precise.

It’s no secret that Marshall Burns ranks among my favourite local musicians. His songs carry a sense of familiarity and comfort. They are beautifully crafted and brutally honest. Marshall’s voice possesses a unique quality that allows one to recognize him instantly, even without having to look. It seamlessly complements his current country/folk musical style.

This particular evening offers a delightful departure from the usual clamor of crowded bar rooms where I’ve often seen Marshall’s performances. Over the course of forty-five minutes, Marshall treats us to a selection of tracks from his first and second solo albums. A heartfelt surprise arrives when he debuts a new song exploring the facade of emotional well-being after losing a loved one. As the song unfolds, it becomes increasingly challenging to hold back tears. I hope Marshall includes this song in his next album. Additionally, the nostalgic strains of “Art and a Wife” and “Good Winter,” both from his Rah Rah days, fill the air, serving as further unexpected delights.

The atmosphere proves relaxed, albeit sparsely populated. There are scattered chuckles throughout the set as the audience revels in the cleverly crafted lyrics. Between songs, Marshall effortlessly interjects with witty remarks about the song he just played or is about to play.

While Marshall’s music may not resonate with everyone, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a chance. Sometimes, it takes a few listens to truly appreciate its depth and artistry.

As I look ahead, I eagerly anticipate attending more Music on the Mezzanine shows in the future. Though I thoroughly enjoy the energy of bar room performances, the opportunity to sit and immerse myself in the music within a quiet environment proves undeniably refreshing.