by Mark

PJ Harvey:

First off, let me just say that PJ Harvey was a lot better than I thought she would be. So much so, that I plan on checking out some of her material. She put on a passionate performance. And despite what I've heard, she seemed like she was really enjoying herself. The NY crowd seemed to really appreciate her, also. Definitely one of the better opening acts I've seen, and it was a pleasant surprise.


The Crowd:

This was absolutely the best audience I have ever been a part of! I didn't talk to many fans, but just the small things -- the relationships I observed, the look in their eyes, the enthusiasm, it just felt like I was with thousands of friends. It's really hard to explain. I never really "observed" the crowd at other U2 shows, but I made it a point to, this time, and they were exactly how I thought they would be.
This was also the most knowledgeable crowd I've ever seen. It seemed like everyone knew every single live "version", as they've played them on this tour. The anticipation was amazing, and I guess this has a lot to do with the Internet, and the proliferation of MP3s from the tour. But it was uncanny.


Oh, Yeah - U2 ;-)

They were awesome! I know this sounds like a broken record already, with all the phenomenal reviews we've read. And I've heard dozens of recordings from this tour. But it doesn't take away from it. There was no letdown. They were simply that great! If you haven't seen them yet this tour, do yourself a favor, and starve for a month just to pay the "high" price for the ticket. Better yet, buy the cheapest ticket, which truly seems to be the best "seat" in the house. If I can catch them on the third leg, I am definitely getting GA.
This was the ultimate singalong. As a matter of fact, the crowd supported Bono's voice as much as Bono's voice supported us! There were plenty of times where the crowd easily drowned him and the entire band out. I can say it was the best concert I've ever been to in the 27 years since my first concert. And I knew it would be. I know the setlist is fairly predictable. But believe me -- you WANT to hear this setlist -- especially on the first show you get to. I'm hoping they make a few changes for Thursday night, in NJ (when I go, again), but even if it's the same -- it will be completely worth it! I wonder if they'll treat it like the first night in NJ, or the third night in the NY area.

Although I enjoyed Zoo TV a lot (appreciated it more in hindsight), and saw a great PopMart show, those absolutely paled to Sunday night. They definitely seemed like they have another 20+ years for their career. Bono's voice was excellent, although I am positive he still had the remnants of a cold or allergy symptoms. You could hear it when he talks.

The lighting was great. Especially for Streets, in its classic tones, WOWY and it's surrealistic displays, and the warm glow generated for Walk On.

Elevation is the perfect opener, and Walk On the perfect closer. The Fly is hilarious. Bullet The Blue Sky the most intense it's ever been, New York loved New York, Kite was beautiful, Pride has gotten its energy back, and I Will Follow and Sunday Bloody Sunday is a much more amazing pairing than I ever imagined! Those two songs have not sounded this good in years, and this may have been the best I Will Follow I've ever heard. Bad and Streets belong together.


New York Love Affair:

That's what it was. The bond between U2 and their fans is like no other; I am convinced of that. More so now than I ever thought before. Bono mentioned the early days performing in NY, and it seems like he sincerely considers those to be some of the most important times in U2's career.

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