Saturday November 26 saw Blue Rodeo roll into town for a show at the Sandman Centre. The iconic Canadian rock/roots band filled the seats in the concert bowl setting. The lively and knowledgeable crowd sang along to many of the hits from the Blue Rodeo songbook.

The seven piece band led by singer/guitarists/composers Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor, played various hits such as “Lost Together,” “Til I Am Myself Again,” “Diamond Mine,” “Try,” and many others. Band members were given plenty of space to showcase their talents and they really did! Added to the band as a utility player was Jimmy Bowskill,who played electric guitar, lap steel, mandolin and violin. Keyboards and accordion were handled wonderfully by Mike Boguski. The talented bassist and drummer provided a solid rhythm section all evening. Lead guitarist Colin Cripps put on quite a show and teamed with Jimmy Bowskill to the delight of the audience. Cuddy and Keelor’s vocals were, as usual, wonderful. For local flavour, Cuddy gave a shout-out to an iconic Kamloops store, The Horse Barn. The happy audience sang along and many danced in the aisles on the floor and behind the seats on the concourse. It appears that a great time was had by all.

The opening act was Barney Bentall. Their set included the popular song “Something To Live For.” Bentall included his son Dustin and musicians from the Cariboo in his band.

They were all invited back on stage to join Blue Rodeo for the last song of the evening.