Local yokels greet Matthew Good (not so good)

"We've been playing mostly theatres on this tour. This is the first time I've played in a cafeteria," Matthew Good was telling us, two songs into his sold-out performance at Algoma University College's Speakeasy on Monday night.

Having seen his performance a few years back at the Roberta Bondar Pavilion, SooToday.com was looking forward to this more intimate, stripped-down, solo acoustic appearance.

As the audience chattered away and the lights dimmed signaling the start of the show, the chat-asses continued.

Even when Good began singing, many members of the crowd seemed to barely notice, making it clear that conversation with their beer buddies was more important than enjoying the undeniable talents of the Canadian icon they'd paid good money to see.

SooToday.com was embarrassed to be a part of this audience as it rudely continued talking throughout the duration of the performance without the slightest regard for the man baring his soul on stage.

Barely audible over the crowd's constant drone as he spoke between songs, Good said: "You should hire a Matt Good cover band. Heck, maybe I'll hire a Matt Good cover band and hang out in the bus and watch TV or something."

This obvious jab was lost on the ill-mannered audience.

Most never even heard it.

Always a testament to class and professionalism, Good ignored the lack of audience reaction at the conclusion of his set and returned to perform a four-song encore.

SooToday.com would not be surprised if he never played here again.

Shame on you, Sault Ste. Marie!

Additional coverage (with video and photos) of Matthew Good's Night of Barbarians at Algoma University College has been posted on SooToday.com's Entertainment page.

To go there now, please click here.