Sarah Mclachlan plays her 30th anniversary of Fumbling Towards Ecstasy tour in Montreal

On June 20, 2024 at Place Bell in Laval, Quebec, Canada, Sarah McLachlan celebrated the 30th anniversary of her landmark album Fumbling Towards Ecstasy with a performance that was both intimate and nostalgic. This tour revisits the album that catapulted her to international fame three decades ago. Sarah wrote the album in Montreal and recorded it at the famous Le Studio in Morin Heights, Quebec, in 1993.

I remember Sarah opening for the late great Jeff Healey at The Commons in Morin Heights near the beginning of her career. After her set, she came into the audience and started talking with everyone. I remember talking to her and how humble and down to earth she was. Now, I get the privilege to photograph and review her show.

The evening began with an energetic set from fellow Canadian artist Feist (Leslie Feist). Her 12-song performance kicked off with “Mushaboom” from her debut album Let It Die, setting a spirited tone for the night. Feist’s dynamic guitar work and innovative use of vocal loops captivated the audience, especially during her electrifying rendition of “My Moon, My Man”, slashing furiously at her guitar and then bending down and manipulating her voice through effects pedals with her hands.

Sarah Mclachlan, dressed in a flowing white dress, opened her set with “Sweet Surrender” and “Building a Mystery” from Surfacing, explaining that she wanted to build anticipation for the main event. The huge video screens behind her alternated between live performance shots and atmospheric visuals, enhancing the intimate yet grandiose feel of the concert.

Throughout the night, Mclachlan’s versatility was on full display as she switched between guitar and piano. Her band’s harmonies complemented her stunning vocals, creating a rich, immersive sound.

There was a personal connection In between songs when Mclachlan shared candid stories about her life, touching on family, therapy, and the healing power of music. She dedicated “Song for My Father” to her dad and “Beautiful Girl” to her oldest daughter, highlighting her deep personal connection to her music. McLachlan also spoke passionately about the Sarah McLachlan School of Music in Vancouver, which provides free music education to children, funded in part by a dollar from every ticket sold on this tour.

The evening’s highlight was the complete live rendition of Fumbling Towards Ecstasy. Mclachlan danced off the stage during “Witness”, allowing her bassist to take over vocals, before returning in a new outfit to perform the album from start to finish. Kicking off with “Possession”, Mclachlin delivered each song with renewed energy.

For the encore, Sarah shared a heartfelt story about her youngest daughter before debuting a new song, “Gravity”, and promised more new music soon. She concluded the evening with a beautiful rendition of “Angel”, leaving the audience in awe.

Sarah McLachlan’s 30th anniversary tour of Fumbling Towards Ecstasy is a testament to her enduring talent and deep connection with her fans. Her performance at Place Bell was a night to remember, full of emotion, exceptional music, and a celebration of her remarkable career.

For those interested in catching this tour, you can find more information and tour dates on Sarah McLachlan’s official tour page https://tour.sarahmclachlan.com