by Michael Bain

Attended U2's first Auckland show last night. I have been waiting 16 years to finally see them in concert in NZ and whilst I would've liked to have seen them earlier I was very very happy with last night's concert. From the start of the show to the final moments it was an epic phenomenal concert. The claw was amazing and jaw dropping and whilst I was seated at the back of the stage I felt the band did a great job of playing to the whole crowd - the broadwalk really helped in this, as did the amazing conical screen. It is hard to pick out any problems with it, especially when taking into consideration this was the first time in a month that they had performed. A special highlight would have to be the band's acknowledgement and tribute to the 29 miners who had lost their lives in the South Island this week. Having the miners names appear on screen as they played One Tree Hill was moving. Other highlights for me were Magnificent, Sunday Bloody Sunday (although I'm not sure of Jay-Z coming out and rapping in the middle of it - perhaps a nod towards where the next album might go in direction?), Get On Your Boots, Elevation, One, Vertigo, and Amazing Grace / Where the Streets Have No Name.

Return to previous page | Post a Review of this show!