GOLDEN BOY ENCHANTS HOMETOWN

August 21, 2010

From the moment his silhouette appeared conducting the dramatic opening notes of “Cry Me A River” to his departure with a final wave and bow, the city’s own Michael Bublé had the crowd at Rogers Arena spellbound.

The stadium was bursting at the seams for the second night in a row as the crooner bantered easily with his Vancouver fans. His charisma and natural showmanship connecting with the audience who turned up in droves to support the Burnaby native.

Welcoming friends, family and fans, Bublé promised this would be the better night as he had saved it all for the Saturday show. He continued to stretch his comedic chops, at ease with the audience who was nothing but appreciative.

Announcing it was time to get the party started with the most depressing song you've ever heard in your life, the singer paid tribute to Billy Vera and the Beaters, singing "At This Moment". And in true Bublé fashion he made a song about heartbreak sound uplifting and magical.

"Everything" and "I've Got the World on a String" followed, enhanced by a classy stage set up which was large and open. Featuring a 13-piece band, the atmosphere was set with black curtain, pillars, screens and colourful lights.

All of the show's elements worked to enhance Bublé's style without overpowering his charm or talent.

And vocal abilities? He’s got a few. From beginning to end, his booming, smooth and melodic voice filled the venue. The sound was loud and crystal clear, his smooth dancing matched his voice.

Looking every part the charming singer in a black suit, shiny dress shoes and a white skinny tie, the crooner performed songs off his 2009 album Crazy Love including the title track and "Georgia On My Mind".

After mentioning he grew up idolizing Michael Jackson, Bublé was strong armed by the crowd into showing off his best MJ impression with some gliding dance moves and a rendition of "Billy Jean" that would have made the late superstar proud.

Inviting openers Naturally 7 - a group whose unique a cappella style "vocal play" creates the sound of instruments with voice - to join him as he strolled through the floor crowd to a small stage at the other end of the stadium for "All Day I Dream of You" and "Home".

Ending with "Just Haven't Met You Yet", Canada's golden boy was cheered back on stage for an encore, serenading the Vancouver crowd with "A Song For You".

His love for his hometown and fans is obvious. Judging by the weekend's capacity crowds who took in the memorable shows, the feeling mutual.