Canadian rock legend Tom Cochrane thrilled the crowd at the Esplanade on Saturday evening in a performance that showcased the singer-songwriter's long list of hit songs. -- NEWS PHOTO PEGGY REVELL

PEGGY REVELL
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After decades on the music scene, Tom Cochrane and Red Rider taking to the Esplanade stage Saturday night felt more like the return of an old friend than a rock concert.
A hooting, whistling, cheering and completely enthusiastic crowd greeted Cochrane, who brought with him the arsenal of songs that has made him a Canadian staple for decades.
"I Wish You Well," "Big League," "Lunatic Fringe,"Ñ and, of course, busting out his harmonica for the iconic "Life is a Highway."
It's no surprise that by now, Cochrane has developed a comfort on the stage. His banter hit all the right spots with his audienceÑtalking about hockey, his family, prairie life, and more hockey.
It's years of experience, comfort and a love of music and performing was also reflected in the veteran band, Red Rider, who joined Cochrane on the stage for the evening.
Guitarist and keyboardist Ken Greer was especially a joy to watch. This is a man whose whole body moves, flows and focuses in on his instrument and every note coming out of it.
Cochrane's talent as an singer-songwriter especially shone when he brought down the show to being just him and his acoustic guitar, accompanied by Greer on a soaring pedal steel guitar .
The only jarring part of the show were moments when the lighting blindingly flashing out into the audience in rhythm with the music.
Cochrane and Red Rider are so strong and seasoned as musicians that they don't need any of the rock 'n' roll gimmicks to capture their audienceÑas the two hearty standing ovations at the end of the evening showed.