by Chip Couch

Yes, my name is Chip, but last night i was angry GA fan #51. A special thanx goes out to the Meadowlands security staff who were successful in screwing hundreds of dedicated and determined fans from their spot on the floor. They did this by misleading the crowd for more than 20 hours, yes 20! by saying there would only be a single GA line, and then at 6 pm, 90 minutes before showtime, telling the crowd that there would indeed be four, causing a massive rush of people to other gates and entrances, and causing near riots (thanks to Turkish and Schaefer.) People who arrived at 5 that afternoon were given front row access. God, i slept in my car and i could have had a better spot if i rolled up at 6. I am not bashing the fans who arrived late (I may have done the same thing) or the band, but the unorganized security staff should have known better.

The show, on the other hand was my most emotional Elevation experience yet. My third Elevation show (Pittsburgh and Hartford were the others,) and my second heart appearance. I was on the rail to the left, inside the heart, which makes for some good pictures. It seemed the only people that were getting pumped when the Beatles came over the PA were the heart goers. My heart was racing, then BAM! Influx Mix. Doesn't get any better. I think i lost my hearing from the crowd noise alone. "Please" was a welcome change of pace, with a superb arrangement. "Sunday Bloody Sunday" seemed more relevant than ever before. I loved "New York," mostly because Bono was pulling his shadow antics 2 feet from my hand. Saw Paul McGuiness next to the stage so i gave him a thumbs up, thanks Paul! Definately a show forever remembered, not only for its euphoric highs, but also for it's security related lows. But i still love the GA on the floor. It gives the most determined fans the best seats when done properly, so keep it up boys!

PS- for the Stereophonics fans-
Being a dedicated Phonics fan myself this was an added bonus having them open. I've seen them live once before (Roseland '00)and was upset but understanding when they cancelled their fall tour. They put on a fantastic set, "Vegas Two Times" and "Rooftop" were my personal favorites. I'm glad they made time for stuff off the first album (i.e "A Thousand Trees) and pulled out the "Performance and Cocktails" material. As we were getting floor bracelets i spotted Stuart's massive hair as he was watching everyone enter, so i yelled "STUART!!!" while waving a peace sign, and of course he gave me a peace sign back. cool man

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