by Matt

My fifth show, first on Vertigo. I was worried after reading the rather slanted reviews from the Sun Times music(who also slammed HTDAAB on its release and had a rather combative interview with Larry a week or so ago). About 30 seconds in, I realized I needn't have worried.

Those of us who have been coming to shows for years need to realize that we're never going to see the Zoo TV, PopMart, or Elevation tours again. Different show, different album, different songs. Okay, I probably don't need to hear Pride again, but that's just me. Lots of the people probably haven't heard it as often.

The show wasn't without its technical difficulties, especially on Miracle Drug, which was the lone song of off Bomb I wasn't impressed with live. Highlights for me were the stomping versions of COBL, Vertigo, and Elevation which led off followed by Electric Co. with a nice nod to Corgan.

The classics, well, NYD was great. More up tempo than I remember. Stand Still I had never heard live, Zoo Station either. Totally marked out for Zoo Station and damn near cried with the harmonica intro to Stand Still. Seemed to me the crowd had to be carried by the band rather than vice versa. Mysterious Ways kind of jump started the encore. Great to see Adam step into the light after years in the shadows. What a musician.

All in all, a superb show though Notre Dame was better (the last time I saw them) but that was lightning in a bottle. My advice: stop comparing it to old shows. Let's appreciate the guys and their effort-I get the feeling they won't be doing this on this scale much longer.

Been going through a rough time, and I must say that it's rather amazing what 4 Irish millionaires and 20000 of their best friends can do for your mood. Thanks to the boys and the audience.

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