April Wine / Carl Dixon – Batavia Downs, Batavia NY – 07/05/2024

BY THOMAS S. ORWAT, JR.

Batavia, NY – The third show in the annual Batavia Downs ‘Rockin’ the Summer Concert Series’ featuring the legendary rock band April Wine and the multi-talented musician/vocalist Carl Dixon was certainly a night to remember. The concert drew a lively crowd eager to keep the 4th of July holiday spirit alive with some of the best Canadian rock music.

Over their career, April Wine have sold over 20 million records worldwide. They had chart-topping hits with songs like “Just Between You and Me,” “Sign of the Gypsy Queen,” “I Like to Rock,” “You Could Have Been a Lady,” and “Roller.” Their music has left a lasting impact on the rock scene, making them one of Canada’s most beloved rock bands.

April Wine’s current line-up features classic line-up guitarist Brian Greenway, along with bassist Richard Lanthier, drummer Roy “Nip” Nichol, and new lead vocalist/guitarist Marc Parent. Marc replaced the band’s founding leader, Myles Goodwyn, who passed away on December 3, 2023. Before his death, Goodwyn expressed his desire for the band to continue and personally chose Parent to carry on the band’s legacy. With Parent on board, April Wine continues to perform with the same spirit and energy that defined their classic era.

On this evening, April Wine delivered a hit-filled set, captivating the audience with their timeless classics. However, after the band’s fourth song, a sudden downpour sent some concertgoers scrambling for shelter. Despite the weather, the band played on, undeterred by the rain. For the dedicated rockers who braved the elements, the performance became an unforgettable experience, showcasing April Wine’s resilience and commitment to their fans.

For more on April Wine, visit www.aprilwine.ca

April Wine setlist

Shotdown
All Over Town
Say Hello
You Could’ve Been a Lady (Hot Chocolate cover)
Big City Girls
Before the Dawn
Bad Side of the Moon (Elton John cover)
Hot on the Wheels of Love
Weeping Widow
Oowatanite
I Like to Rock
Right Down to It
Crash and Burn
Just Between You and Me
Sign of the Gypsy Queen
Roller
Enough Is Enough
Anything You Want, You Got It

Direct support on this bill was Carl Dixon, vocalist and singer of the Canadian hard rock band Coney Hatch. Dixon performed with an all-star band consisting of Brian James on bass, Mark Santer on drums, Bobby Lebel on guitar, and Matt Young on keyboards.

Dixon delivered an impressive 90-minute set featuring Coney Hatch songs and classic rock tracks by Canadian artists/bands including: “Patio Lanterns” by Kim Mitchell, “Closer to the Heart” by Rush, “Black Velvet” by Alannah Myles, and “Raise a Little Hell” by Head East.

For more information on Carl Dixon, please visit www.carldixon.com and www.coneyhatch.com