by Joe S.

I was lucky enough to see both Philly shows. Had a great time both evenings. My entire family went the first night which was a real treat for me - - watching my 10 year old son "rock out" to Electric Co. during Philly 1 was too much for words.

Great energy last night. As many have mentioned, I was surprised when the audience drifted off while singing at the end of Pride -but it ended up showing me how powerful Bono's stage presence really is. When most performers lose an audience it is gone for good. But last night, the moment Bono asked the audience to keep going, we responded immediately and with conviction. All with the wave of a hand....
Incredible.

I had different visual perspectives both nights. During Philly 1, we were further away and were able to appreciate the wonderful light show in all of its glory. Last night we were closer and lost some of the visual impact of the lights but more than made up for it by enjoying a closer connection with the band.

Highlights:

Gloria - WOW. what a great song live. Phoned it in to my son who enjoyed every second of it from home.

The Fly - there was a point near the end of the song where the four musicians gathered together near center stage, with both Bono and Edge on guitar, and they just jammed. Period. Probably just like they would in a small Dublin club. Reminded that these guys are so much more than a great rock and roll show, they are truly gifted musicians.

With or Without You - Like any fan, I love to see the band feel moved enough to go off script and treat the audience. Whether the inspiration came from the absolutely charming young lady Bono brought up on stage during Mysterious Ways, good crowd energy or a combination, the extra song was perfect and sincerely appreciated.

"40" - no "Bad" as had been rumored but its hard to complain about "40" - probably no better crowd sing-a-long in all of rock music.

Thanks again to U2 for 2 incredible evenings. Enjoy Europe, get inspired, and come back to see us in October. I'll be there (with my son) if my wife lets us go ... again.

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