REVIEW: Hedley’s last stand
Thousands of fans filled Rogers Place in Edmonton for Hedley on Thursday night – despite allegations of sexual misconduct looming against frontman Jacob Hoggard.
In the 13 years of Hedley, from the singer’s origins as the most interesting Canadian Idol contestant, Hoggard always presented himself as a pompous playboy. Yet in light of these accusations, his on-stage persona hasn’t changed. He remains the same Hoggard – to the delight of his loyal audience.
Conversations with fans before the show revealed divided opinions, however. Sisters Sarah and Hailey Robertson said they came to hear the music; they both say Hedley’s lyrics helped them both through tough times.
“This is the end of Hedley,” says 21-year-old Hailey, “because the allegations are probably true, and I know I shouldn’t be a fan, but I can’t help it. It’s their sound, not the people behind it that matter.”
Sarah, age 27, meanwhile, says she’s pretty “grossed out” by it all. She says, “I remember all the interviews and shows I’ve seen with Jacob and his charm and now I know what he’s really like. It’s just gross. I’m surprised he still has fans gushing over him likes he’s a God.”
Matt Pool drove his 14-year-old sister Shanna from Lethbridge so she could see her first concert. She says, “A concert is about music, not the sexual behavior of band members, so I couldn’t care less what rumours are flying around.”
During the show that followed, Hedley aimed to please their fans and to keep them. They entered the stage and began performing their recent hit Better Days. The band played a charismatic set, throwing in a mix of tracks from their latest album Cageless, radio hits and notably a cover of Landslide by Stevie Nicks that stretched to six minutes. Hoggard did multiple wardrobe changes and a mediocre solo piano performance.
Kudos for the effort, but the whole thing was just a hot mess. With so much excess and hyper behavior it was really hard to focus on, or appreciate the music. And with Hoggard’s name plastered in the media, perhaps the band wanted to be louder with their image to drive away any tension. It definitely captured attention, but not for good reason. It was all just very underwhelming for a penultimate performance. After this tour, Hedley is taking an “indefinite hiatus.”
The hardcore fans were pleased, by the sounds of it. Hedley delivered Hedley. Hoggard’s stage presence is undeniable. He invited fans to come down to the stage for photos during the set – and many obliged. Many fans seemed surprised by this invitation. Chatter from the crowd confirmed he recycles the same jokes in each stop on the tour.
It’s interesting to note that while the band had denied media and photo credentials for this tour, Hedley still processed VIP tickets. Hoggard’s attitude towards fans is strikingly different than it used to be. Based on social media photos of the meet ‘n’ greet (where tickets were $250), the man still clearly appreciates his fans, but he now limits physical contact. He is well aware of where his arm or hand will rest in a photo – leaving absolutely zero chance of a fan starting a new allegation.
Hedley promised the crowd they’d be back after the hiatus. Let’s hope they don’t keep their word. Pop radio is currently free of any music by Hedley – and frankly it’s not missed.
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