A phenomenal, emotional show, with lots of energy from the band and crowd alike.
My membership number is 313XXX and this was my first time buying 10C tickets. I had heard that there was going to be a huge fan club presence at the show and, having a relatively high membership number, I told myself that I would be happy with anything in front of the stage that was not 300 level. I got row 10 in Section 106, lower level at the back of the arena, dead straight out from center stage. Reading the seating chart I was a bit disappointed with the distance but once I got to the seats they turned out to be fine - not as far as I imagined. After reading some of the other posts from 10C members who DID pull 300 level seats this evening, I’m counting my blessings. I’ve been up there for several other shows (one by PJ) and I always feel like I’m on another planet. Anyway, from where I was sitting, the vocals were sometimes a little muddy on the up-tempo songs, but instrumentally it was a very clear-sounding, face-melting, tear-your-head off assault. Damn it felt good!
From a set list perspective this show was just about perfect for me. With the exception of “Dissident” (which I just can’t get into for some reason), I at least like every song they played tonight. This was only my fourth PJ show and it was my first time hearing “Long Road”, “God’s Dice”, “Sad”, “In Hiding”, “Rats”, “Spin The Black Circle” and “Smile”. All of those are favorites of mine and I thought they were all very well played, especially “STBC” which was really intense.
I was not aware of the back story regarding Jeff’s friend. They never specifically said he passed away, but between seeing the Jeff-designed poster, Eddie’s comment at the start of the show (“We have a lot of emotion to get through tonight”), Jeff’s comments to introduce “Happy Birthday” and then playing “Come Back” and “Man Of The Hour”, it wasn’t hard to figure out. As I said, just a very emotional show. I hope it brought Jeff some solace.
"Given To Fly" was killer. Great crowd response too.
I can sympathize with the guy who wore the “No Even Flow” shirt the following night (I saw Ed try not to laugh when he was singing the first verse and wondered what was up. He explained it after the song). I always tell myself that I’m tired of “Alive” and “Even Flow” and wouldn’t mind if they dropped them - until they play them. Then all bets are off. They might be old warhorses but holy crap do they play ‘em well!! They bring an amazing intensity level to those two. If the band ain’t tired of them after 18 years then I shouldn’t be tired of them after 4 shows. (And a couple dozen bootlegs. And constant rotation on the radio (to the exclusion of almost all other PJ music - don’t get me started)). Where was I? Oh yeah, Chicago #1...
The two Quadrophenia songs in the first encore were jaw-droppingly great. They just nailed them to the wall. I’m still in awe over those.
Finally, I’m definitely liking the new songs in concert. “The Fixer” got an especially big response and generated a lot of crowd participation. “Got Some” was also good, though I preferred the version from the following night, probably because I could make out the lyrics a little better from my Chicago #2 seat (200 level, a little closer than halfway back). I have to send my thanks to the lady up front who read my mind and asked for “more new stuff”. “Supersonic” was played in response. That was my first time hearing that one and I liked that too. I hear a pretty strong Ramones influence on the 3 new songs I’ve heard so far. They’re all short, melodic and hard rocking tunes. And with Backspacer having 11 songs and a rumored run time of about 35 minutes, I wouldn’t be surprised if PJ is kind of tipping its hat to those first 4 Ramones albums. Anyway, more great stuff to my ears. I can’t wait for the new album.
A few general comments to close:
1) Matt Cameron is kicking some major ass these days. I have simply never heard him sound better than he did at these two Chicago shows. He’s just an amazing, powerhouse drummer and PJ is lucky to have him in the band.
2) Mike is obviously an outstanding lead guitar player but I really love Stone’s playing too. He doesn’t get to step forward and solo too often - just two or three times a show it seems - but he always sounds great when he does. I wish he’d get to take the lead a bit more often.
3) Kudos to whoever selected Bad Religion as the opener. I’d heard of them but I was mostly unfamiliar with their music. I thought they were pretty impressive. I’ll definitely dig into them a little deeper.
And finally, thanks to PJLadie for taking my spare ticket this night. It was fun meeting you. Enjoy those Philly shows!
2003 - Chicago (6/18 - United Center) 2006 - Chicago 1 (5/16 - United Center), Chicago 2 (5/17 - United Center) 2009 - Chicago 1 (8/23 - United Center), Chicago 2 (8/24 - United Center) 2013 - Chicago (7/19 - Wrigley Field) 2014 - Moline (10/17 - iWireless Center), Milwaukee (10/20 - Bradley Arena) 2016 - New York City 1 (5/1 - MSG), New York City 2 (5/2 - MSG), Chicago 1 (8/20 - Wrigley Field), Chicago 2 (8/22 - Wrigley Field) 2018 - Chicago 1 (8/18 - Wrigley Field), Chicago 2 (8/20 - Wrigley Field)
First off, troubledsoulsuniteblog, great review, truly a great, great read, and you hit so many things about these shows right on the head. After Toronto, I can say that both Chicago shows blew Toronto out of the water. For night 1, I couldn't have asked for a better opener. I have been dying to hear long road and finally got it. I've heard numerous live versions and I swear I've never heard Eddie belt it out like he did here, especially the "how i wish for you today" twoards the end, DAMN! Another highlight was In Hiding. Love that song, and Yield is my favorite album. There had to be a ton of fan club members cause the chorus of this song seemed to be deafening from where I was on the floor in Sec. 5 row 16, and I loved every second of it. Rats, wow, one I never thought I'd get and it was great at least from where I was to see a bunch of people getting into it, myself included. Love Reign over me, wow, Eddie nailed it and again just defening during the chorus with the crowd belting the words. Real Me, as far as I'm concerned was the song I thought rocked the most, yeah it isn't there's but they nailed it and played it with so much energy and emotion and boy did it ever show. Smile, well since I'm from Milwaukee this song is just special because of the ties it has to my city. Again, loved the fact that it became defening during "I miss you already" and boy do I miss this band already. Say what you want but there is no better way to say goodbye than Yellow Ledbetter, I think. Great show, this band gives more to it's fans than anyone out there, and thanks to them for all they have given us. Well, well worth it and a great 14th show for me.
Alpine Valley 6/26/98, Alpine Valley 10/8/00, Champaign 4/23/03, Chicago 6/18/03, Alpine Valley 6/21/03, Grand Rapids 10/3/04
Chicago 5/16/06, Chicago 5/17/06, Grand Rapids 5/19/06
Milwaukee 6/29/06, Milwaukee 6/30/06, Lollapalooza 8/5/07
Eddie Solo Milwaukee 8/19/08, Toronto 8/21/09, Chicago 8/23/09
Chicago 8/24/09, Indianapolis 5/7/10, Ed Chicago 6/29/11, Alpine Valley 9/3/11 and 9/4/11, Wrigley 7/19/13, Moline 10/18/14, Milwaukee 10/20/14
Those of us PJ fans who live in South Florida had been going through withdrawal prior to last year's show in West Palm Beach. It was amazing to see the band again after five years, but Ed didn't bring his A-game to that June 2008 show -- too much pre-concert wine, many of us felt. So when I treated myself to a birthday weekend in Chicago -- and StubHub tix for my wife and I to Sunday's show -- part of me was hoping for a little redemption. As so many of you have eloquently stated, neither Ed nor the band disappointed. They did more than just "get through" the emotion about which Ed spoke as the lights dimmed. They immersed themselves in it. At least it felt that way in Section 211. I don't think I'll ever forget how it felt to hear Ed pour himself so completely into "Long Road," which seemed like a birthday present in and of itself. It all felt fresh and vital and alive -- from the splendor of "Come Back" to the brilliance of "Love Reign ..." to the soaring energy of "Rearview." I came to the Windy City looking, in part, for a little payback. But if anyone owes anything at this point, it's me. Thank you guys -- not only for Sunday, but for an entire career of making music that matters.
Been to over 20 shows and this was one of the best crowds i have seen (very vocal). See you tomorrow!!!
PS-Great job by Foxymop & Dirty Tom for putting together a great preparty. Talked to the bartenders and they said they had over 350 people at one time before the show. Also, a lot of high fan club numbers were in the 300 level. It felt like 80% fan club at the show. Ed sounded great!!!
Thank you! Foxy Mop, Evil Closet Monkey, and also Nixon in Detroit thanks you you too.
First off, troubledsoulsuniteblog, great review, truly a great, great read, and you hit so many things about these shows right on the head. After Toronto, I can say that both Chicago shows blew Toronto out of the water. For night 1, I couldn't have asked for a better opener. I have been dying to hear long road and finally got it. I've heard numerous live versions and I swear I've never heard Eddie belt it out like he did here, especially the "how i wish for you today" twoards the end, DAMN! Another highlight was In Hiding. Love that song, and Yield is my favorite album. There had to be a ton of fan club members cause the chorus of this song seemed to be deafening from where I was on the floor in Sec. 5 row 16, and I loved every second of it. Rats, wow, one I never thought I'd get and it was great at least from where I was to see a bunch of people getting into it, myself included. Love Reign over me, wow, Eddie nailed it and again just defening during the chorus with the crowd belting the words. Real Me, as far as I'm concerned was the song I thought rocked the most, yeah it isn't there's but they nailed it and played it with so much energy and emotion and boy did it ever show. Smile, well since I'm from Milwaukee this song is just special because of the ties it has to my city. Again, loved the fact that it became defening during "I miss you already" and boy do I miss this band already. Say what you want but there is no better way to say goodbye than Yellow Ledbetter, I think. Great show, this band gives more to it's fans than anyone out there, and thanks to them for all they have given us. Well, well worth it and a great 14th show for me.
First Long Road for me too. And that first loud chord (G I think) when the band kicks in. Fucking goose bumps. Wow!
First off, troubledsoulsuniteblog, great review, truly a great, great read, and you hit so many things about these shows right on the head. After Toronto, I can say that both Chicago shows blew Toronto out of the water. For night 1, I couldn't have asked for a better opener. I have been dying to hear long road and finally got it. I've heard numerous live versions and I swear I've never heard Eddie belt it out like he did here, especially the "how i wish for you today" twoards the end, DAMN! Another highlight was In Hiding. Love that song, and Yield is my favorite album. There had to be a ton of fan club members cause the chorus of this song seemed to be deafening from where I was on the floor in Sec. 5 row 16, and I loved every second of it. Rats, wow, one I never thought I'd get and it was great at least from where I was to see a bunch of people getting into it, myself included. Love Reign over me, wow, Eddie nailed it and again just defening during the chorus with the crowd belting the words. Real Me, as far as I'm concerned was the song I thought rocked the most, yeah it isn't there's but they nailed it and played it with so much energy and emotion and boy did it ever show. Smile, well since I'm from Milwaukee this song is just special because of the ties it has to my city. Again, loved the fact that it became defening during "I miss you already" and boy do I miss this band already. Say what you want but there is no better way to say goodbye than Yellow Ledbetter, I think. Great show, this band gives more to it's fans than anyone out there, and thanks to them for all they have given us. Well, well worth it and a great 14th show for me.
First Long Road for me too. And that first loud chord (G I think) when the band kicks in. Fucking goose bumps. Wow!
Omg! Me too! Some tears fell, too! And they kept falling during Come Back. Thank goodness it was dark otherwise people would have seen me sobing. It just took over. Nothing compares to a live show.
[quote="mrs. wes c.addleOmg! Me too! Some tears fell, too! And they kept falling during Come Back. Thank goodness it was dark otherwise people would have seen me sobing. It just took over. Nothing compares to a live show.[/quote]
I have to admit to this too, although my gf did see me sobbing...
it's ok guys that you cried
this band evokes the strongest emotions within us sometimes
you have no choice to but to let them out
ps: i cried, too during comeback and man of the hour
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Get it now, get enough, before its gone, let's everybody carry on, carry on....
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www.wishlistfoundation.org
WE WANT YOU!!!!
join the street team http://wishlistfoundation.fancorps.com
"headphones are highly recommended...." Jeff Ament
Does anyone know the approx. amount of time that is the norm between the concert date and the bootleg release date? I need something new to look forward to since the concert has past... Also, did anyone pre-order a poster? I did and still have not recieved it. Just wondering...
Does anyone know the approx. amount of time that is the norm between the concert date and the bootleg release date? I need something new to look forward to since the concert has past... Also, did anyone pre-order a poster? I did and still have not recieved it. Just wondering...
i dont think any of the other shows have been released yet
i believe 10c said something along the lines of a week or two?
i sort of miss the previous years when you could get an instant download the next day
but the waiting will be worth it if they're using the time to master these nicely
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Get it now, get enough, before its gone, let's everybody carry on, carry on....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
www.wishlistfoundation.org
WE WANT YOU!!!!
join the street team http://wishlistfoundation.fancorps.com
"headphones are highly recommended...." Jeff Ament
Does anyone know the approx. amount of time that is the norm between the concert date and the bootleg release date? I need something new to look forward to since the concert has past... Also, did anyone pre-order a poster? I did and still have not recieved it. Just wondering...
I also pre-ordered the poster and haven't received it yet.
Amazing show on Sunday night! The intensity of the crowd was unparalleled in comparison to the previous shows I've been to, and it was great to hear the fans give Pearl Jam there due for putting on such an energetic set. Eddie's voice sounded strong and spot-on, and the rest of the band really brought the adrenaline all night. I was especially stoked to hear Smile, Supersonic, and Sad. It had been 3 years since I'd seen the band live, and it was as if no time had passed at all. Every show is such a kick-ass experience for me- like my own little concert where I leave the building with no voice left but an abundance of memories to carry me over till the next time. Thanks again for the great seats, Ten Club, and thank you to Pearl Jam for always making each show special. See you in Portland!
Rapid City - June 23rd, 1998
"I will hold the candle, till it burns up my arm..."
Anyone catch what McCready's first T-shirt was, the black and white one with two matching figures on it? It looked to me like it was Han Solo duplicated, but couldn't tell from my angle.
2000: East Troy
2003: Champaign, Chicago, East Troy
2006: Chicago x2, D.C., Denver
2007: The Vic, Lollapalooza
2008: Tampa, Columbia
2009: Chicago x2
2010: Indianapolis
Thanks again Ten Club!! A lot of complaining here about the seats, but what else is new... I was 201xxx and was on the floor, sec 5 row 17. I gotta think their were 7-9 thousand fan club members there. Probably more than MSG 1. As for the show, I'm never dissapointed. I get so lost in the music, that by song 3, it does'nt matter where the fuck I'm sitting! I realized my eyes are closed half the time anyways. Man of the Hour is truly a blessing and blissful moment every time I hear it.... thanks again
Is this the guy from Boston that called the Long Road opener? If so - you guys rocked!
yes it is!! were you the two to our right?? Great times!! The long road call was all luck!!
Yep, haha!! Nice to 'meet' you again! I still owe you $5 for that...hope you guys had a safe trip home!
WI '98, WI '99 (EV), WI '00, Chgo '00, MO '00, Champaign '03, Chgo '03, WI '03, IN '03, MI '04, Chgo '06:N1 & 2, WI '06, Chgo '07, Chgo '08 (EV:N1), Chgo '09:N1 & 2, Chgo '11 (EV:N1), WI '11:N1 & 2, Philly '12, Wrigley '13, Pitt '13, Buff '13, Detroit '14, MKE '14, Wrigley '16: N1 & N2, Seattle '18 N2, Wrigley '18: N1 & N2, Fenway '18 N1, STL '22, St Paul '23 N2, Chgo '23: N1 & N2, Wrigley '24 N1 & 2
Although my seats weren't as good as N2, my husband and I still had a great time. I would love to know what Ed's connection to Rockton is. He gave it a shout out in 06 & on Sunday right before launching into Elderly Woman. I live on the border of Rockton (population 5,296) and Roscoe (population 6,244), so I'm very curious!
Although my seats weren't as good as N2, my husband and I still had a great time. I would love to know what Ed's connection to Rockton is. He gave it a shout out in 06 & on Sunday right before launching into Elderly Woman. I live on the border of Rockton (population 5,296) and Roscoe (population 6,244), so I'm very curious!
It seems like lately whenever they come to Chicago, Ed likes to yell out random suburb names to see who's from where. I was amused that he said Schaumburg twice, and then later on instead of saying "thank you Chicago" he said "thank you Skokie".
Chicago 2000 : Chicago 2003 : Chicago 2006 : Summerfest 2006 : Lollapalooza 2007 : Chicago 2009 : Noblesville (Indy) 2010 : PJ20 (East Troy) 2011 : Wrigley Field 2013 : Milwaukee (Yield) 2014 : Wrigley Field 2016
Anyone catch what McCready's first T-shirt was, the black and white one with two matching figures on it? It looked to me like it was Han Solo duplicated, but couldn't tell from my angle.
It looked like Warhol's double Elvis' Cowboy painting in black and white T-Shirt form
Although my seats weren't as good as N2, my husband and I still had a great time. I would love to know what Ed's connection to Rockton is. He gave it a shout out in 06 & on Sunday right before launching into Elderly Woman. I live on the border of Rockton (population 5,296) and Roscoe (population 6,244), so I'm very curious!
It seems like lately whenever they come to Chicago, Ed likes to yell out random suburb names to see who's from where. I was amused that he said Schaumburg twice, and then later on instead of saying "thank you Chicago" he said "thank you Skokie".
Yeah, I noticed that most of the towns/cities he shouts out are 'burbs...Rockton is about 2 hrs. west of Chicago though. It's fairly out of the way. Roscoe's claim to fame is being the hometown of Danica Patrick. Rockton doesn't really have a claim to fame that I'm aware of....
Although my seats weren't as good as N2, my husband and I still had a great time. I would love to know what Ed's connection to Rockton is. He gave it a shout out in 06 & on Sunday right before launching into Elderly Woman. I live on the border of Rockton (population 5,296) and Roscoe (population 6,244), so I'm very curious!
It seems like lately whenever they come to Chicago, Ed likes to yell out random suburb names to see who's from where. I was amused that he said Schaumburg twice, and then later on instead of saying "thank you Chicago" he said "thank you Skokie".
Yeah, I noticed that most of the towns/cities he shouts out are 'burbs...Rockton is about 2 hrs. west of Chicago though. It's fairly out of the way. Roscoe's claim to fame is being the hometown of Danica Patrick. Rockton doesn't really have a claim to fame that I'm aware of....
I'm pretty sure they mentioned "Rock"ford and "Rock"ton in Champaign in 2003 as well. My guess is the only claim to fame for these two cities is that they have Rock in them. I work in Rockford and drive thru Rockton everyday...
What a great show!! Thanks to the 10Club for fantastic seats... section 121, row 19 (member #164xxx). This was my first time on the side of the stage, and I liked the different vantage point.
An awesome show. Great set list. Rats is always a special treat, simply because it has only been played 40 times live now I believe. The ultimate treat, though, was The Needle and the Damage Done-- I love the Neil Young version but, as everyone knows, every Pearl Jam cover (at least the ones that I can think of) always ends up being better than the original.
I think it was worth noting that I talked to a woman outside before the 2nd show and we were talking about the 1st show. She said something that I hadn't thought of because I was probably too busy having my own fun, but she said that it just really looked like the whole band was having a lot of fun-- even more than usual. I had to agree with her after I thought about it.
I think it was nice in certain parts of even the loudest songs, the crowd singing was louder than the loudspeakers, and the loudspeakers were very loud with it being an indoor show and all.
It is sad that everyone has to complain about their seats or the setlist. I know I didn't become a fan club member just to get the best seats. I would just like to be in the front row during Crazy Mary one time. Other than that, I am fine anywhere.
I would like to say that I love the special connection there is between Pearl Jam fans. For instance, I was in Grant Park for Lollapalooza when the doors opened and I spent the rest of the day in one place preserving my spot. I talked to some fans that I met there all day about other shows, songs, etc. It was crazy that when I went back to Chicago the next time for Eddie solo night one, I actually ran into those guys. We chatted for a few minutes about how shocking it was that we ran into each other. We talked about what we hoped to hear in the following show, etc. And they asked how my mom was doing (I took my mom with me to Lollapalooza and she also spent the entire day standing in the ridiculous heat to see the show; she's fucking awesome). None of my friends listen to Pearl Jam since I come from a rural community where most people would rather hear Brad Paisley sing about something stupid with no heartfelt lyrics, and just, well, altogether bad lyrics.
What I am getting at, I suppose, is that my only disappointment with the whole experience of being there for show 1 is that I didn't run into those fans again.
So if you guys are reading this, drop me a line some time and have a good one.
One of the best shows I've seen in 15 years of going to shows.
Needle was awesome - felt bad for some of the newer fans who actually thought the Jackson Five sang it - silly rabbits. That's OK - I told them go get Decade by Neil and they'll be onto a whole new track of music to consume.
Rats was sweet and opening with Long Road was very cool - very 10 C heavy show. First time in a long time I've been off my feet at a concert.
Section 317 seats here but row 1 so they show was way better to be viewed than sitting in section 111 on night two.
If you haven't seen them yet - you got something special coming to you - soak it in, it goes by fast. Now depression sets in....
"Hey, listen asshole, one more fucker throws a fuckin' quarter up here and we're outta here, I'm tellin' ya, FUCKER! What the fuck, you're blowin' it for fuckin' everybody. Hit me with a fuckin' quarter again and, fuck it, I'm outta here. We're all outta here. Fuck you, and if anyone sees someone throw fuckin' change right next to them, you have my permission to beat the fuckin' holy shit outta them."
As always, excellent show. Sec 122 (Stone's side) row 9 with 10C #172xxx. First time I haven't been on the floor in an arena with 10C seats, but they were still fantastic.
Not exceptional, but a good setlist. My highlights were Long Road, Sad, Rats, and Love Reign Over Me. First time in my twelve shows hearing those. However, what really made the show was the crowd. Everyone around me was loving everything. It definitely makes it more special when those around you are jumping up and down and signing the entire time. Met some good folks, including the guy next to me who was at his 50-something show, brought his dad, and had multiple more to look forward to this tour, including Australia and NZ.
Had a great time in Chicago. Couldn't stay for the second night, but I got to attend with a great friend and we consumed a lot of good food and beer. Counting down the days until the Friday Philly show.
"Chicago I and II of 2009 will go down in my book as two of my all time favorite classic concerts, with Night II thus far ranking as the best show I have ever seen live, by any band."
Comments
My membership number is 313XXX and this was my first time buying 10C tickets. I had heard that there was going to be a huge fan club presence at the show and, having a relatively high membership number, I told myself that I would be happy with anything in front of the stage that was not 300 level. I got row 10 in Section 106, lower level at the back of the arena, dead straight out from center stage. Reading the seating chart I was a bit disappointed with the distance but once I got to the seats they turned out to be fine - not as far as I imagined. After reading some of the other posts from 10C members who DID pull 300 level seats this evening, I’m counting my blessings. I’ve been up there for several other shows (one by PJ) and I always feel like I’m on another planet. Anyway, from where I was sitting, the vocals were sometimes a little muddy on the up-tempo songs, but instrumentally it was a very clear-sounding, face-melting, tear-your-head off assault. Damn it felt good!
From a set list perspective this show was just about perfect for me. With the exception of “Dissident” (which I just can’t get into for some reason), I at least like every song they played tonight. This was only my fourth PJ show and it was my first time hearing “Long Road”, “God’s Dice”, “Sad”, “In Hiding”, “Rats”, “Spin The Black Circle” and “Smile”. All of those are favorites of mine and I thought they were all very well played, especially “STBC” which was really intense.
I was not aware of the back story regarding Jeff’s friend. They never specifically said he passed away, but between seeing the Jeff-designed poster, Eddie’s comment at the start of the show (“We have a lot of emotion to get through tonight”), Jeff’s comments to introduce “Happy Birthday” and then playing “Come Back” and “Man Of The Hour”, it wasn’t hard to figure out. As I said, just a very emotional show. I hope it brought Jeff some solace.
"Given To Fly" was killer. Great crowd response too.
I can sympathize with the guy who wore the “No Even Flow” shirt the following night (I saw Ed try not to laugh when he was singing the first verse and wondered what was up. He explained it after the song). I always tell myself that I’m tired of “Alive” and “Even Flow” and wouldn’t mind if they dropped them - until they play them. Then all bets are off. They might be old warhorses but holy crap do they play ‘em well!! They bring an amazing intensity level to those two. If the band ain’t tired of them after 18 years then I shouldn’t be tired of them after 4 shows. (And a couple dozen bootlegs. And constant rotation on the radio (to the exclusion of almost all other PJ music - don’t get me started)). Where was I? Oh yeah, Chicago #1...
The two Quadrophenia songs in the first encore were jaw-droppingly great. They just nailed them to the wall. I’m still in awe over those.
Finally, I’m definitely liking the new songs in concert. “The Fixer” got an especially big response and generated a lot of crowd participation. “Got Some” was also good, though I preferred the version from the following night, probably because I could make out the lyrics a little better from my Chicago #2 seat (200 level, a little closer than halfway back). I have to send my thanks to the lady up front who read my mind and asked for “more new stuff”. “Supersonic” was played in response. That was my first time hearing that one and I liked that too. I hear a pretty strong Ramones influence on the 3 new songs I’ve heard so far. They’re all short, melodic and hard rocking tunes. And with Backspacer having 11 songs and a rumored run time of about 35 minutes, I wouldn’t be surprised if PJ is kind of tipping its hat to those first 4 Ramones albums. Anyway, more great stuff to my ears. I can’t wait for the new album.
A few general comments to close:
1) Matt Cameron is kicking some major ass these days. I have simply never heard him sound better than he did at these two Chicago shows. He’s just an amazing, powerhouse drummer and PJ is lucky to have him in the band.
2) Mike is obviously an outstanding lead guitar player but I really love Stone’s playing too. He doesn’t get to step forward and solo too often - just two or three times a show it seems - but he always sounds great when he does. I wish he’d get to take the lead a bit more often.
3) Kudos to whoever selected Bad Religion as the opener. I’d heard of them but I was mostly unfamiliar with their music. I thought they were pretty impressive. I’ll definitely dig into them a little deeper.
And finally, thanks to PJLadie for taking my spare ticket this night. It was fun meeting you. Enjoy those Philly shows!
2006 - Chicago 1 (5/16 - United Center), Chicago 2 (5/17 - United Center)
2009 - Chicago 1 (8/23 - United Center), Chicago 2 (8/24 - United Center)
2013 - Chicago (7/19 - Wrigley Field)
2014 - Moline (10/17 - iWireless Center), Milwaukee (10/20 - Bradley Arena)
2016 - New York City 1 (5/1 - MSG), New York City 2 (5/2 - MSG), Chicago 1 (8/20 - Wrigley Field), Chicago 2 (8/22 - Wrigley Field)
2018 - Chicago 1 (8/18 - Wrigley Field), Chicago 2 (8/20 - Wrigley Field)
Chicago 5/16/06, Chicago 5/17/06, Grand Rapids 5/19/06
Milwaukee 6/29/06, Milwaukee 6/30/06, Lollapalooza 8/5/07
Eddie Solo Milwaukee 8/19/08, Toronto 8/21/09, Chicago 8/23/09
Chicago 8/24/09, Indianapolis 5/7/10, Ed Chicago 6/29/11, Alpine Valley 9/3/11 and 9/4/11, Wrigley 7/19/13, Moline 10/18/14, Milwaukee 10/20/14
First, thanks to the band for a pair of balls-out shows. Second, thanks to the tireless 10 Club for some nice seats amid undoubtedly high demand.
Here are some of my shots from Sunday night:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/peterpreston/sets/72157622021335951/
I'll post my shots from Monday in that show's thread (or they'll be easy enough to find after hitting the link above).
Cheers
Thank you! Foxy Mop, Evil Closet Monkey, and also Nixon in Detroit thanks you you too.
"This is the greatest band in the world"---Ben Harper
First Long Road for me too. And that first loud chord (G I think) when the band kicks in. Fucking goose bumps. Wow!
BOS-9/28/04,9/29/04,6/28/08,6/30/08, 9/5/16, 9/7/16, 9/2/18
MTL-9/15/05, OTT-9/16/05
PHL-5/27/06,5/28/06,10/30/09,10/31/09
CHI-8/2/07,8/5/07,8/23/09,8/24/09
HTFD-6/27/08
ATX-10/4/09, 10/12/14
KC-5/3/2010,STL-5/4/2010
Bridge School-10/23/2010,10/24/2010
PJ20-9/3/2011,9/4/2011
OKC-11/16/13
SEA-12/6/13
TUL-10/8/14
I have to admit to this too, although my gf did see me sobbing...
this band evokes the strongest emotions within us sometimes
you have no choice to but to let them out
ps: i cried, too during comeback and man of the hour
Get it now, get enough, before its gone, let's everybody carry on, carry on....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
www.wishlistfoundation.org
WE WANT YOU!!!!
join the street team
http://wishlistfoundation.fancorps.com
"headphones are highly recommended...." Jeff Ament
my goosebumps had fucking goosebumps.
i think every show should open with Long Road, but that's just me.
that song will never fail to bring a tear to my eye.
I'm going to wear out these bootlegs
i believe 10c said something along the lines of a week or two?
i sort of miss the previous years when you could get an instant download the next day
but the waiting will be worth it if they're using the time to master these nicely
Get it now, get enough, before its gone, let's everybody carry on, carry on....
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
www.wishlistfoundation.org
WE WANT YOU!!!!
join the street team
http://wishlistfoundation.fancorps.com
"headphones are highly recommended...." Jeff Ament
I also pre-ordered the poster and haven't received it yet.
Eddie Vedder: 6/15/09 6/16/11
"I will hold the candle, till it burns up my arm..."
2003: Champaign, Chicago, East Troy
2006: Chicago x2, D.C., Denver
2007: The Vic, Lollapalooza
2008: Tampa, Columbia
2009: Chicago x2
2010: Indianapolis
Yep, haha!! Nice to 'meet' you again! I still owe you $5 for that...hope you guys had a safe trip home!
It seems like lately whenever they come to Chicago, Ed likes to yell out random suburb names to see who's from where. I was amused that he said Schaumburg twice, and then later on instead of saying "thank you Chicago" he said "thank you Skokie".
It looked like Warhol's double Elvis' Cowboy painting in black and white T-Shirt form
http://eladarmon.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/elvis.jpg
Yeah, I noticed that most of the towns/cities he shouts out are 'burbs...Rockton is about 2 hrs. west of Chicago though. It's fairly out of the way. Roscoe's claim to fame is being the hometown of Danica Patrick. Rockton doesn't really have a claim to fame that I'm aware of....
I'm pretty sure they mentioned "Rock"ford and "Rock"ton in Champaign in 2003 as well. My guess is the only claim to fame for these two cities is that they have Rock in them. I work in Rockford and drive thru Rockton everyday...
Here's a video of Smile taken on my camera... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaJXqrFu8WI
I think it was worth noting that I talked to a woman outside before the 2nd show and we were talking about the 1st show. She said something that I hadn't thought of because I was probably too busy having my own fun, but she said that it just really looked like the whole band was having a lot of fun-- even more than usual. I had to agree with her after I thought about it.
I think it was nice in certain parts of even the loudest songs, the crowd singing was louder than the loudspeakers, and the loudspeakers were very loud with it being an indoor show and all.
I would like to say that I love the special connection there is between Pearl Jam fans. For instance, I was in Grant Park for Lollapalooza when the doors opened and I spent the rest of the day in one place preserving my spot. I talked to some fans that I met there all day about other shows, songs, etc. It was crazy that when I went back to Chicago the next time for Eddie solo night one, I actually ran into those guys. We chatted for a few minutes about how shocking it was that we ran into each other. We talked about what we hoped to hear in the following show, etc. And they asked how my mom was doing (I took my mom with me to Lollapalooza and she also spent the entire day standing in the ridiculous heat to see the show; she's fucking awesome). None of my friends listen to Pearl Jam since I come from a rural community where most people would rather hear Brad Paisley sing about something stupid with no heartfelt lyrics, and just, well, altogether bad lyrics.
What I am getting at, I suppose, is that my only disappointment with the whole experience of being there for show 1 is that I didn't run into those fans again.
So if you guys are reading this, drop me a line some time and have a good one.
Needle was awesome - felt bad for some of the newer fans who actually thought the Jackson Five sang it - silly rabbits. That's OK - I told them go get Decade by Neil and they'll be onto a whole new track of music to consume.
Rats was sweet and opening with Long Road was very cool - very 10 C heavy show. First time in a long time I've been off my feet at a concert.
Section 317 seats here but row 1 so they show was way better to be viewed than sitting in section 111 on night two.
If you haven't seen them yet - you got something special coming to you - soak it in, it goes by fast. Now depression sets in....
Not exceptional, but a good setlist. My highlights were Long Road, Sad, Rats, and Love Reign Over Me. First time in my twelve shows hearing those. However, what really made the show was the crowd. Everyone around me was loving everything. It definitely makes it more special when those around you are jumping up and down and signing the entire time. Met some good folks, including the guy next to me who was at his 50-something show, brought his dad, and had multiple more to look forward to this tour, including Australia and NZ.
Had a great time in Chicago. Couldn't stay for the second night, but I got to attend with a great friend and we consumed a lot of good food and beer. Counting down the days until the Friday Philly show.
I am right by your side.
"Chicago I and II of 2009 will go down in my book as two of my all time favorite classic concerts, with Night II thus far ranking as the best show I have ever seen live, by any band."
I can get behind this...