Let me apologize right off the bat…This is going to be a really long post. Last Night's show had so many amazing moments that It is just impossible to condense these thoughts into a few blurbs.
First off…thank you to the 10club. My wife and I were 5th row dead center last night!!! Amazing seats!!!
I was thinking beforehand that it would be very difficult to top the first night. But as a Pearl Jam fan I should have known better. And once again…wouldn’t you know it…Night 2 blew Night 1 completely out of the water.
The day started off great. We got to meet Liam and his tour manager Sam a couple of hours before the show. They were really great guys and were really excited to be playing Massey Hall. It’s so cool to see the excitement in their eyes. The tour in October is Liam’s first as a headliner and you could tell that he is just super excited to be embarking on this stage in his career. I wish him and his crew all the best because they are super cool people and deserve to be successful.
I can’t say enough good things about Liam and EJ. They are such great performers and just incredible musicians all around. Liam has got so much energy. I just love watching him play the drums. It’s all heart and soul…he reminds me so much of Keith Moon in the sense that he’s playing more off emotion and aggression than he is drumming technique. Liam just bangs the fuck out of his kit and it’s such a joy to watch such reckless abandon when it comes to a musical instrument. He was playing with so much fury during “Lead Balloon” that he broke both his sticks…It didn’t phase him one bit…instead of grabbing a new pair…he just started pounding the drums with his fists!!! The “Dear Prudence” tag last night was awesome as well, but the biggest highlight is when EJ and Liam came to the front of the stage unplugged from the house PA system and played “Gather to the Chapel”.
It was such a great moment, one of many to come that night.
Eddie came out about 8:45-8:50pm to a huge standing ovation. You’d think you were in an arena by the ovation that Eddie got.
I could tell right off the bat, by the look in Eddie’s eyes that it was going to be a special night. He was very focused and intense for the first few songs. During “Sometimes” he was stomping the shit out of his floor board so hard that I though he was going to crush it. The song always seemed like a "Slow Burn" mellow tune to me in the past, but last night was something completely different. Eddie played it like a man possessed!! He was super into it and his conviction was fucking intense.
“Around The Bend” was a major highlight for me. It’s such a beautiful love song. I just love watching Eddie play this one. Stripped down and acoustic, Ed’s voice just shines and he really pulls out some great guitar work on this.
“Man of the Hour” was incredibly moving and was dedicated to Johnny Ramone whom Eddie said that he was thinking about a lot that day. I looked over at my wife and she had tears running down her cheek after the song. I really prefer this acoustic version to the original. Eddie plays this tiny Martin guitar on it. It’s just got this really great tone to it that elevates the song to a whole new level. This song is truly a showcase of Eddie’s continued growth as a guitar player. HE’S REALLY GOOD
“Masters of War” received the first standing ovation of the evening and it was well deserved. My jaw was hanging on the floor during this one. Eddie’s voice was so awesome and this was such a super intense version. You could really see the anger come through in Eddie during this song. He gets so into it and his delivery just sends shivers down your spine. He puts everything he has into it. This version is easily the best I've ever seen. After the song was finished the crowd just erupted into thunderous aplause. Afterwards Ed told the crowd “He couldn’t wait for the day when that song would have absolutely no relevance to the world at all”.
The “Into the Wild” portion was played flawless and mistake free. Ed was again really focused. He really seemed to be giving his all last night...not that he doesn't everynight...But something was different last night. There seemed to be a deliberate attempt to make sure that each song was delivered and performed to perfection. Eddie was playing like his life depended on it.
It was at this point in the show that I realized that the songs played so far were easily some of the definitive live versions and performances of these songs. To just say the man was on fire...Is a huge understatement!!
“Millworker” was excellent and really moving.
“You’re True” was a cool treat. Never heard this one before and liked Eddie’s story about playing it at Mike’s Wedding.
“Lukin” was fucking brilliant!! It was such a great version. Eddie picked up a guitar and just busted it out of nowhere. I never thought that I’d be blown away by “Lukin”. I mean it was always a cool little song … but for some reason it just floored me last night. Funny how you can be kind of “cold” towards a song for so long and then all of a sudden in one performance have it totally smack you right in the face. I’ve totally got a new appreciation for this song. My eyes are now open
“Let My Love Open the Door” and “Porch” really drove the crowd into frenzy. Both were rousing versions with the “Massey Hall Choir” (as Eddie called us) standing and singing at the top of our lungs. Eddie gave us a few verses during “Porch” and we drove the song home. Eddie was visibly pleased by our singing and really moved by it.
I believe it was at this moment that the concert went into “5th gear” as Ed had promised earlier.
After a great version of “Wishlist” Eddie brought out another chair. I was expecting to see Liam come out for “Society” which has been the norm for this tour. But was really surprised when he said he was going to play a song with EJ!! A song that they “learned about 5 minutes before show-time”!!
“HELPLESS”!!!!
The absolute highlight of the night…I’ve always wanted to hear Ed sing this. My wife and I both were totally choked up just hearing him sing the words “There is a Town in North Ontario” ; as I’m sure everyone who lives in the Ontario region can attest to. Just a stunning version!! Eddie’s guitar started to cut out near the last verse but the crowd singing along at the top of their lungs helped carry this home. Such an appropriate song for this venue!!! The crowd just ate it up.
Liam came out for “Society” and “Throw Your Arms Around Me”. The Harmonies between Ed and Liam were awesome. Eddie made a slight lyrical flub during “Society” but it was quickly recovered. Both songs were really powerful. I’d love to sit and watch Liam and Eddie sing all night. They compliment each other really well.
“Small Town” is always a treat…Brought the crowd to their feet singing REALLY LOUD!! I think Eddie was blown away by the volume of our singing. The lights came on at this point and as Eddie gave us the verses…You could see him just looking around the building in awe. He had the biggest grin on his face as 2500 people sang along in unison at the top of our lungs.
This momentum carried through into “No More” with (finally!!) great crowd participation that really pleased Eddie.
“Patriot” was a last minute audible. Some dip shit in the crowd shouted it out as Eddie was getting ready to play “Arc” I was happy that he decided to play it and it was a real treat to hear…but at this point the crowd was just really annoyed and sick and tired of these idiots yelling out requests.
Eddie handled the hecklers well all night and was so funny and hilarious with his quick comebacks. You’d think that these assholes would have gotten the point early on but they just kept on and on.
Anyways…
Eddie comes out for the 2nd Encore. I was expecting “Hard Sun” to bring it all home for us…but sure enough Ed had some more tricks up his sleeve.
Liam and EJ come out on stage and Eddie SITS DOWN BEHIND THE DRUMS!!! For an awesome version of “Old Man”. I love the way Liam and EJ sing this one. Eddie had a great little beat going on the kit too. He looked like the happiest motherfucker in the world behind the drums. Just Awesome!!
Next we get “RITFW” with Eddie by himself on acoustic. The guitar once again started to cut out…But the crowd once again came to the rescue with an awesome sing-along with the Lights on. It was great looking around the room at all the people. I once again caught Eddie looking around the room with a huge smile on his face.
“Hard Sun” was next and was amazing. It was a beautiful extended version and was the perfect cap on one of the most memorable shows I’ve ever been too.
Eddie almost looked like he was choked up at the end as he went around in shook hands. He looked like he didn’t want to leave.
Eddie said that he probably wouldn’t be back in Toronto for a long while as he said he has to get back and make another Pearl Jam record.
I’m definitely going to have to get my hands on a recording of this show. It’s the only way I’m going to be able to re-capture the incredible high that I had last night.
The bar has definitely been raised with this show.
State College in 03, Barrie in 98 were awesome…but this show may have very well blown these out of the water as well.
I was in row 14 night one and row 11 night two and both nights I saw people I recognized sitting really close. one guy was in row 2 both nights and one girl was in row 4 for the two nights...how does this "random" thing work?
I know I don't have the best luck but I dont see how someone can pull row two "randomly" 2 nights in a row...just seems a little set up. If it's not random then that's fine. I don't have a problem with that...I never had a problem with the seniorty thing that PJ does anyways but if it's not random then don't tell people it is...
I was in row 14 night one and row 11 night two and both nights I saw people I recognized sitting really close. one guy was in row 2 both nights and one girl was in row 4 for the two nights...how does this "random" thing work?
I know I don't have the best luck but I dont see how someone can pull row two "randomly" 2 nights in a row...just seems a little set up. If it's not random then that's fine. I don't have a problem with that...I never had a problem with the seniorty thing that PJ does anyways but if it's not random then don't tell people it is...
I went to all the ev solo Canadian dates with 10C tix. The best seat I had was fourth row centre, the worst was seventeenth row. It seemed pretty random to me but I didn't notice who was sitting where on other nights.
20. ottawa - may '16
19. ottawa - may '11
18. montreal - sept '11
17. toronto - aug '09
16. toronto - aug '08 (ev solo)
15. toronto - aug '08 (ev solo)
14. montreal - aug '08 (ev solo)
13. montreal - aug '08 (ev solo)
12. toronto - may '06
11. ottawa - sept '05
10. mansfield, ma - july '03
9. NYC - oct '00 (nader rally)
8. mansfield, ma - sept '00
7. DC - sept '98 (voters for choice)
6. NYC - sept '98
5. east rutherford, NJ - sept '98
4. montreal - aug '98
3. augusta, me - sept '96
2. toronto - sept '96
1. gimli - aug '93
I went to all the ev solo Canadian dates with 10C tix. The best seat I had was fourth row centre, the worst was seventeenth row. It seemed pretty random to me but I didn't notice who was sitting where on other nights.
Completely random.
I've got a medium 10club number and scored 5th row centre last night!!
since i wasn't quick enough with my point and clicking to get tix to this show what are the chances of a boot???!?
will put it right beside my uncle neil at massey hall....
Words cannot express the show last night. I like most people, had a tear running down my cheek after Man of the Hour, I was laughing alongside the crowd as Eddie would shut up a heckler, ("you don't even know the f*n story!") and I for one, ABSOLUTELY NEED a bootleg of this concert. I have to admit, after seeing PJ for the first time in 2006, then grabbing their bootleg, I have an expectation for every band to do that. Eddie Vedder's concert will never leave my mind. Even this morning, I still have goosebumps and when I listen to MotH again in my head, it has a whole new sound to it.
It was beautiful.
To Eddie: Thank you very much, it was amazing. Please, I NEED to hear that show again and again and again. Please release something from it.
2006 Toronto II
2008 Toronto II (EV)
2009 Toronto
2010 Cleveland, Buffalo,
2011 Detroit (EV), East Troy I and II, Montreal, Toronto I and II, Hamilton
2012 Philadelphia
Does anyone remember Ed adjusting his "boys" and belt after the Stomping madness during Sometimes? Priceless. He probably got one sacked a little.That floorboard peddle thing was just superb. Arc was truly uplifting and explosive in it's delivery.
Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's Soul remains Unawakened.
Anatole France
An amazing two nights in Toronto. Shit. 8th row centre floor for night one, front row of second balcony night two. How can an experience like this be possible? It's all been said. I didn't mind the yelling idiots as much as I thought I would - it made for some good comebacks and dialogue from Eddie, and people were generally well behaved during the songs. We all had a good time.
I love how Eddie gets some good support here for his anti war anthems and rants. We sing along to "No More" without the fear of being interrogated.
I am just looping Walking the Cow over and over in my head.
While he was playing that song, I thought it was pretty good, but now it is stuck in my head and is like a sunset background as I try to interact with the world. If you have a copy of this song somewhere I can get PM me!
It kind of defines this tour.
Into the Wild will never be seen again like this.
Ultimately I guess we should all be thankfull of Chris McCandless who's life story made this tour happen in the first place.
Those songs are all too good.
Anyway, I am blessed
Thank you Eddie Vedder
Peace to all the wandering souls
I have only been 10c for 10.5 months and I got row 9 so it is random.
Air Canada Centre - Toronto - Sep 19, 2005 / Air Canada Centre - Toronto - May 09, 2006 / Massey Hall - Toronto - Eddie Vedder Solo - Tour August 12, 2008/ Molson Amphitheatre - Toronto - Aug 21, 2009 / HSBC Arena - Bufallo - May 10, 2010 / Quicken Loans Arena - Cleveland- May 09, 2010 / Robinson Center Music Hall - Little Rock,AR - Voices For Justice - Eddie Vedder Solo - August 28, 2010 / Fox Theatre - Detroit - June 26. 2011
I have only been 10c for 10.5 months and I got row 9 so it is random.
I attest to the random, decided to finally become a 10c member one day after i travelled to see PJ in mansfield 2 (last show of tour minus charity work). day after i signed up, EV tour was announced and I signed up on last possible day to get pre-order! was hoping it was fate or somthing and got tix for night 1 in toronto. 12th row (L) far left seats 2 and 3.
'98: Barrie
'03: Toronto
'05: Toronto
'06: Toronto, Toronto
'07: Munich
'08: Vancouver (EV), Mansfield II, Toronto I (EV)
'11: Toronto, Toronto, Hamilton
'13: London Ontario
August 13, 2008, Toronto, ON, Canada – Massey Hall
Ed solo tour - opening: Liam Finn
MAIN SET: Walking the Cow, Trouble (by Cat Stevens), Sometimes, Around The Bend, I am Mine, Dead Man, Man of the Hour, Long May You Run (by Neil Young), Masters of War (by Bob Dylan), Setting Forth, No Ceiling, Guaranteed, Far Behind, Rise, Millworker (by James Taylor), You're True, Soon Forget, Lukin, Let My Love Open The Door (by Pete Townshend), Porch
1ST ENCORE: Wishlist, Helpless w/EJ (by Neil Young), Society w/Liam, Throw Your Arms around me w/Liam, Small Town, No More, Patriot, ARC
2ND ENCORE: Old Man w/Ed on drums Liam singing (by Neil Young), Keep on Rockin' In The Free World (Ed by himself) (by Neil Young), Hard Sun
Please share your Fanviews of the show here.
RITF, helpless, long may you run, and old man with ed on drums?
As many have said, the best part of the these shows is Ed's interaction with the crowd. I specifically liked the part where he referred to the requests that were shouted out for Jeremy and State as two terrible requests. He then came back to the subject later by saying that we should have those two guys arm wrestle, fix it so they both lose and then kick them out. And once they are kicked out, he will play both songs. LOL.
An amazing two nights in Toronto. Shit. 8th row centre floor for night one, front row of second balcony night two. How can an experience like this be possible? It's all been said. I didn't mind the yelling idiots as much as I thought I would - it made for some good comebacks and dialogue from Eddie, and people were generally well behaved during the songs. We all had a good time.
I love how Eddie gets some good support here for his anti war anthems and rants. We sing along to "No More" without the fear of being interrogated.
I am just looping Walking the Cow over and over in my head.
While he was playing that song, I thought it was pretty good, but now it is stuck in my head and is like a sunset background as I try to interact with the world. If you have a copy of this song somewhere I can get PM me!
It kind of defines this tour.
Into the Wild will never be seen again like this.
Ultimately I guess we should all be thankfull of Chris McCandless who's life story made this tour happen in the first place.
Those songs are all too good.
Anyway, I am blessed
Thank you Eddie Vedder
Peace to all the wandering souls
beautiful post
i had heard 'walking the cow' a few times before but until i heard it live, i did not appreciate it.
it was stuck in my head after the newark show...
also, forever young was just so pure and gorgeous... heavenly
What a show! That copy of Long May You Run sounds great! THANK YOU SO MUCH for taking care of those not able to make it. So amazed at that setlist!
"In the beginning of a change, the Patriot is a scarce man, Brave, Hated, and Scorned. When his cause succeeds however, the timid join him, For then it costs nothing to be a Patriot.”
-Mark Twain
"In the beginning of a change, the Patriot is a scarce man, Brave, Hated, and Scorned. When his cause succeeds however, the timid join him, For then it costs nothing to be a Patriot.”
-Mark Twain
Fuck me!!! And I thought "my show" was good (it was). Wow!!!
If I had known then what I know now...
Vegas 93, Vegas 98, Vegas 00 (10 year show), Vegas 03, Vegas 06
VIC 07
EV LA1 08
Seattle1 09, Seattle2 09, Salt Lake 09, LA4 09
Columbus 10
EV LA 11
Vancouver 11
Missoula 12
Portland 13, Spokane 13
St. Paul 14, Denver 14
Not only did I get awesome tickets to two fantastic shows (1. night: 3rd row, 2. night: 10th row), I also got to see them with a truly wonderful guy. Thank you, WHOiAM.
Man, i am so sad that the night is over. I want to re-live it over and over again. Blew my mind, I can't believe how Eddie always continues to make me shake my head in disbelief. I will cherish that night forever. Until next time....i will be waiting impatiently.
MOTH...ssesh, what can I say. I am speechless.
Executive summary for the lazy:
- Awesome show
- I was upgraded to front row center
- Ed commented on my shirt and gave me his pick
Full Story
Background:
Last night I tried getting a single ticket on the floor or first balcony at a reasonable price. Didn't bother paying the high scalper prices because I had 10Club tickets for night 2 and I had just seen a show in Montreal on Saturday night.
I also tried the pre-party fundraiser, but my luck ran out after I won 2 of the prizes in the raffle. (Thanks Mel for donating the Charlotte poster) So I didn't end up going to Toronto night 1.
Instead I went to my ultimate frisbee game late, and with 5 minutes left in the game, I throw a lousy pass behind my girlfriend, who needed to twist while running to try to make the catch. She ended up tearing her MCL. Off we went to the hospital and we were there until almost midnight. She now needs to wear a knee brace to prevent the knee joint from moving until the specialist can take a look at it in 2 weeks. She said it even hurt more than the first time she tore the tendon 8 years ago when skiing.
In short, last night sucked.
Fast forward to tonight. It took almost 40 minutes to make the walk from the pre-party to the venue (I did it yesterday in under 10 minutes) because my girlfriend can't bend that leg and really needs to take it slow. We pick up my fan club tickets and they are 8th row. My intent was to trade with someone 2 rows back on the side aisle (not the center aisle, since I didn't think they would go for it) so that my girlfriend could extend her leg into the aisle. Instead, after we walk in, a very very kind gentleman upgrades us to the front row so that she could just sit forward and not need to worry about it. The seats are directly next to the center aisle, so we are sitting (effectively) front row center.
Before we head inside, I pick up the batman poster and a zippo lighter from the merch table. (They were also selling the other tour poster, but I had already got one in Montreal.) Poster in hand we chill out downstairs trying to make my girlfriends leg as comfortable as possible, because even sitting in a chair isn't great. We were coming up with clever ways to keep it elevated.
Of course we are freaking out a little when we went to our seats part way through Liam's set; and after his set ended I went along the front row, high fiving everyone who got upgraded.
It was remarkable how many people came up to the stage after Liam's set and were taking pictures of the stage setup.
Ed comes out to an extended standing O. There was the standard assortment of irritating people shouting out song requests and chanting Mr. Vedder's name.
At the first 'talking break' between songs, Eddie wants to throw his pick to me but is worried it wont get to me; so he comes to the front of the stage. My girlfriend jumps up and hobbles over to the stage to take the pick. He then proceeds to ask me about my t-shirt which features a stormtrooper mask; I just have to say Mike Watt for it to register that he and Dave Grohl bought these shirts in Toronto when they were touring with Mike Watt on the "Ball-hog or Tugboat" tour and wore the matching stormtrooper shirts on stage for their Toronto Gig. He proceeds to tell the quick story to the crowd, and then continues on with the set.
(I've been wearing this storm-trooper t-shirt to Pearl Jam shows since my first one in '96. All because of that Mike Watt rour)
Musical Highlights:
- Man of the Hour was beautiful and dedicated to Joey Ramone
- Masters of War was very powerful (as always)
- You're True was preambled by a quick story on why he hates getting requests to play peoples weddings. Since he feels like he is letting them down. He said that the only weddings he would play are immediate family and bandmates. Like playing that song at McCready's wedding.
- Let my love open the door singalong was great, splitting the audience into high voices and low voices.
- Helpless was awesome. I thought they were bringing out the second chair for Liam, not EJ.
- Liam and Ed sound really good together on Throw your arms around me.
- He was getting all set for Arc when he heard the request for Patriot and called an audible to get a guitar out there for the song.
- Arc is awesome live.
- I can't believe he played Old Man and Rockin in the Free world after Arc before Hard Sun.
- Leaning on the stage for the entire second encore rocked.
Banter was also good.
- More quips about Liam being high
- Enjoyed seeing the Toronto Skyline from the water - says it looks like Seattle, and our phallic symbol is bigger (but dirtier)
- He was going to get the idiots who shouted out Jeremy and State of Love and Trust to arm wrestle to see which one doesn't get his request (they were both going to lose)
- Nice story about the Neil Young bootleg as well.
All told; amazing, amazing night.
Noah thats AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thought I saw you going towards the front row! Congrats!! I dunno if I said it to you...think I did...that you never know...you could be the lucky one that gets upgraded...and voila!!! I'm sooo happy for you!! Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!!
I was 7th row centre last night myself...and I saw your g/f go to the stage to get her pic. Congrats!! Those Evel Kinevel picks are pretty sweet huh!
I ended up right by your seats for Old Man onwards. Sweet view!!
ohh and yw about the poster. Enjoy!
"Rock and roll is something that can't be quantified, sometimes it's not even something you hear, but FEEL!" - Bob Lefsetz
Noah thats AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thought I saw you going towards the front row! Congrats!! I dunno if I said it to you...think I did...that you never know...you could be the lucky one that gets upgraded...and voila!!! I'm sooo happy for you!! Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!!
I was 7th row centre last night myself...and I saw your g/f go to the stage to get her pic. Congrats!! Those Evel Kinevel picks are pretty sweet huh!
I ended up right by your seats for Old Man onwards. Sweet view!!
ohh and yw about the poster. Enjoy!
Thanks Mel. It was an awesome night. Did you prefer night 1 or 2?
1996 – Istanbul; 1998 – Alpine Valley, Chicago, Montreal, Barrie, MSG I, MSG II; 2000 – NYC I, NYC II, Toronto; 2003 – Toronto; 2005 – Kitchener, Hamilton, Toronto; 2006 – Toronto I, Toronto II, Las Vegas; 2007 - Vic, Lollapalooza; 2008 - (Ed Solo) Montreal I, Toronto II
Comments
First off…thank you to the 10club. My wife and I were 5th row dead center last night!!! Amazing seats!!!
I was thinking beforehand that it would be very difficult to top the first night. But as a Pearl Jam fan I should have known better. And once again…wouldn’t you know it…Night 2 blew Night 1 completely out of the water.
The day started off great. We got to meet Liam and his tour manager Sam a couple of hours before the show. They were really great guys and were really excited to be playing Massey Hall. It’s so cool to see the excitement in their eyes. The tour in October is Liam’s first as a headliner and you could tell that he is just super excited to be embarking on this stage in his career. I wish him and his crew all the best because they are super cool people and deserve to be successful.
I can’t say enough good things about Liam and EJ. They are such great performers and just incredible musicians all around. Liam has got so much energy. I just love watching him play the drums. It’s all heart and soul…he reminds me so much of Keith Moon in the sense that he’s playing more off emotion and aggression than he is drumming technique. Liam just bangs the fuck out of his kit and it’s such a joy to watch such reckless abandon when it comes to a musical instrument. He was playing with so much fury during “Lead Balloon” that he broke both his sticks…It didn’t phase him one bit…instead of grabbing a new pair…he just started pounding the drums with his fists!!! The “Dear Prudence” tag last night was awesome as well, but the biggest highlight is when EJ and Liam came to the front of the stage unplugged from the house PA system and played “Gather to the Chapel”.
It was such a great moment, one of many to come that night.
Eddie came out about 8:45-8:50pm to a huge standing ovation. You’d think you were in an arena by the ovation that Eddie got.
I could tell right off the bat, by the look in Eddie’s eyes that it was going to be a special night. He was very focused and intense for the first few songs. During “Sometimes” he was stomping the shit out of his floor board so hard that I though he was going to crush it. The song always seemed like a "Slow Burn" mellow tune to me in the past, but last night was something completely different. Eddie played it like a man possessed!! He was super into it and his conviction was fucking intense.
“Around The Bend” was a major highlight for me. It’s such a beautiful love song. I just love watching Eddie play this one. Stripped down and acoustic, Ed’s voice just shines and he really pulls out some great guitar work on this.
“Man of the Hour” was incredibly moving and was dedicated to Johnny Ramone whom Eddie said that he was thinking about a lot that day. I looked over at my wife and she had tears running down her cheek after the song. I really prefer this acoustic version to the original. Eddie plays this tiny Martin guitar on it. It’s just got this really great tone to it that elevates the song to a whole new level. This song is truly a showcase of Eddie’s continued growth as a guitar player. HE’S REALLY GOOD
“Masters of War” received the first standing ovation of the evening and it was well deserved. My jaw was hanging on the floor during this one. Eddie’s voice was so awesome and this was such a super intense version. You could really see the anger come through in Eddie during this song. He gets so into it and his delivery just sends shivers down your spine. He puts everything he has into it. This version is easily the best I've ever seen. After the song was finished the crowd just erupted into thunderous aplause. Afterwards Ed told the crowd “He couldn’t wait for the day when that song would have absolutely no relevance to the world at all”.
The “Into the Wild” portion was played flawless and mistake free. Ed was again really focused. He really seemed to be giving his all last night...not that he doesn't everynight...But something was different last night. There seemed to be a deliberate attempt to make sure that each song was delivered and performed to perfection. Eddie was playing like his life depended on it.
It was at this point in the show that I realized that the songs played so far were easily some of the definitive live versions and performances of these songs. To just say the man was on fire...Is a huge understatement!!
“Millworker” was excellent and really moving.
“You’re True” was a cool treat. Never heard this one before and liked Eddie’s story about playing it at Mike’s Wedding.
“Lukin” was fucking brilliant!! It was such a great version. Eddie picked up a guitar and just busted it out of nowhere. I never thought that I’d be blown away by “Lukin”. I mean it was always a cool little song … but for some reason it just floored me last night. Funny how you can be kind of “cold” towards a song for so long and then all of a sudden in one performance have it totally smack you right in the face. I’ve totally got a new appreciation for this song. My eyes are now open
“Let My Love Open the Door” and “Porch” really drove the crowd into frenzy. Both were rousing versions with the “Massey Hall Choir” (as Eddie called us) standing and singing at the top of our lungs. Eddie gave us a few verses during “Porch” and we drove the song home. Eddie was visibly pleased by our singing and really moved by it.
I believe it was at this moment that the concert went into “5th gear” as Ed had promised earlier.
After a great version of “Wishlist” Eddie brought out another chair. I was expecting to see Liam come out for “Society” which has been the norm for this tour. But was really surprised when he said he was going to play a song with EJ!! A song that they “learned about 5 minutes before show-time”!!
“HELPLESS”!!!!
The absolute highlight of the night…I’ve always wanted to hear Ed sing this. My wife and I both were totally choked up just hearing him sing the words “There is a Town in North Ontario” ; as I’m sure everyone who lives in the Ontario region can attest to. Just a stunning version!! Eddie’s guitar started to cut out near the last verse but the crowd singing along at the top of their lungs helped carry this home. Such an appropriate song for this venue!!! The crowd just ate it up.
Liam came out for “Society” and “Throw Your Arms Around Me”. The Harmonies between Ed and Liam were awesome. Eddie made a slight lyrical flub during “Society” but it was quickly recovered. Both songs were really powerful. I’d love to sit and watch Liam and Eddie sing all night. They compliment each other really well.
“Small Town” is always a treat…Brought the crowd to their feet singing REALLY LOUD!! I think Eddie was blown away by the volume of our singing. The lights came on at this point and as Eddie gave us the verses…You could see him just looking around the building in awe. He had the biggest grin on his face as 2500 people sang along in unison at the top of our lungs.
This momentum carried through into “No More” with (finally!!) great crowd participation that really pleased Eddie.
“Patriot” was a last minute audible. Some dip shit in the crowd shouted it out as Eddie was getting ready to play “Arc” I was happy that he decided to play it and it was a real treat to hear…but at this point the crowd was just really annoyed and sick and tired of these idiots yelling out requests.
Eddie handled the hecklers well all night and was so funny and hilarious with his quick comebacks. You’d think that these assholes would have gotten the point early on but they just kept on and on.
Anyways…
Eddie comes out for the 2nd Encore. I was expecting “Hard Sun” to bring it all home for us…but sure enough Ed had some more tricks up his sleeve.
Liam and EJ come out on stage and Eddie SITS DOWN BEHIND THE DRUMS!!! For an awesome version of “Old Man”. I love the way Liam and EJ sing this one. Eddie had a great little beat going on the kit too. He looked like the happiest motherfucker in the world behind the drums. Just Awesome!!
Next we get “RITFW” with Eddie by himself on acoustic. The guitar once again started to cut out…But the crowd once again came to the rescue with an awesome sing-along with the Lights on. It was great looking around the room at all the people. I once again caught Eddie looking around the room with a huge smile on his face.
“Hard Sun” was next and was amazing. It was a beautiful extended version and was the perfect cap on one of the most memorable shows I’ve ever been too.
Eddie almost looked like he was choked up at the end as he went around in shook hands. He looked like he didn’t want to leave.
Eddie said that he probably wouldn’t be back in Toronto for a long while as he said he has to get back and make another Pearl Jam record.
I’m definitely going to have to get my hands on a recording of this show. It’s the only way I’m going to be able to re-capture the incredible high that I had last night.
The bar has definitely been raised with this show.
State College in 03, Barrie in 98 were awesome…but this show may have very well blown these out of the water as well.
Later
I was in row 14 night one and row 11 night two and both nights I saw people I recognized sitting really close. one guy was in row 2 both nights and one girl was in row 4 for the two nights...how does this "random" thing work?
I know I don't have the best luck but I dont see how someone can pull row two "randomly" 2 nights in a row...just seems a little set up. If it's not random then that's fine. I don't have a problem with that...I never had a problem with the seniorty thing that PJ does anyways but if it's not random then don't tell people it is...
I went to all the ev solo Canadian dates with 10C tix. The best seat I had was fourth row centre, the worst was seventeenth row. It seemed pretty random to me but I didn't notice who was sitting where on other nights.
19. ottawa - may '11
18. montreal - sept '11
17. toronto - aug '09
16. toronto - aug '08 (ev solo)
15. toronto - aug '08 (ev solo)
14. montreal - aug '08 (ev solo)
13. montreal - aug '08 (ev solo)
12. toronto - may '06
11. ottawa - sept '05
10. mansfield, ma - july '03
9. NYC - oct '00 (nader rally)
8. mansfield, ma - sept '00
7. DC - sept '98 (voters for choice)
6. NYC - sept '98
5. east rutherford, NJ - sept '98
4. montreal - aug '98
3. augusta, me - sept '96
2. toronto - sept '96
1. gimli - aug '93
Completely random.
I've got a medium 10club number and scored 5th row centre last night!!
will put it right beside my uncle neil at massey hall....
It was beautiful.
To Eddie: Thank you very much, it was amazing. Please, I NEED to hear that show again and again and again. Please release something from it.
2008 Toronto II (EV)
2009 Toronto
2010 Cleveland, Buffalo,
2011 Detroit (EV), East Troy I and II, Montreal, Toronto I and II, Hamilton
2012 Philadelphia
Anatole France
I love how Eddie gets some good support here for his anti war anthems and rants. We sing along to "No More" without the fear of being interrogated.
I am just looping Walking the Cow over and over in my head.
While he was playing that song, I thought it was pretty good, but now it is stuck in my head and is like a sunset background as I try to interact with the world. If you have a copy of this song somewhere I can get PM me!
It kind of defines this tour.
Into the Wild will never be seen again like this.
Ultimately I guess we should all be thankfull of Chris McCandless who's life story made this tour happen in the first place.
Those songs are all too good.
Anyway, I am blessed
Thank you Eddie Vedder
Peace to all the wandering souls
We got Masters of War, Forever Young and Girl from North Country in Montreal
So fuckin' jealous !
I knew he was keeping the Neil Young shit for you guys (Toronto)
Musta been great...too bad it was in the middle of the week...
Cheers
I AGREE GET THAT SHOW OUT FOR THE ONES WHO COULDNT ATTEND
4 Neil Young songs, I would have been to heaven...
I attest to the random, decided to finally become a 10c member one day after i travelled to see PJ in mansfield 2 (last show of tour minus charity work). day after i signed up, EV tour was announced and I signed up on last possible day to get pre-order! was hoping it was fate or somthing and got tix for night 1 in toronto. 12th row (L) far left seats 2 and 3.
'03: Toronto
'05: Toronto
'06: Toronto, Toronto
'07: Munich
'08: Vancouver (EV), Mansfield II, Toronto I (EV)
'11: Toronto, Toronto, Hamilton
'13: London Ontario
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3gVHj-E5LM
RITF, helpless, long may you run, and old man with ed on drums?
holy fucking shitballs batman!
i am officially jealous
AND PATRIOT????????????
fuck me in the brain
hilarious
07 8/5 Lolla 8/2 VIC
06 7/22,23 Gorge 7/20 Ptl
04 10/8 VFC Kissimmee
03 4/11 WPB, 4/12 HOB Orlando, 7/8,9 MSG
00 8/24 Jones Bch 8/9,10 WPB
1998 9/22,23 WPB 1996 10/7 Ft Laud 1994 3/28 Miami
beautiful post
i had heard 'walking the cow' a few times before but until i heard it live, i did not appreciate it.
it was stuck in my head after the newark show...
also, forever young was just so pure and gorgeous... heavenly
07 8/5 Lolla 8/2 VIC
06 7/22,23 Gorge 7/20 Ptl
04 10/8 VFC Kissimmee
03 4/11 WPB, 4/12 HOB Orlando, 7/8,9 MSG
00 8/24 Jones Bch 8/9,10 WPB
1998 9/22,23 WPB 1996 10/7 Ft Laud 1994 3/28 Miami
I went to the concert last night at Massey Hall and it was the best show I've ever seen, and I go to a lot of concerts.
The opening act was incredible.
Eddie was on the top of his game, the show was completely interactive and he was heckling the hecklers. He was very cool, and very funny.
Highlights
MOTH
Masters of War
Millworker
No More
Helpless
Small town
Porch
RITFW
Hard Sun
-Mark Twain
THANK YOU!!!!!!!
07 8/5 Lolla 8/2 VIC
06 7/22,23 Gorge 7/20 Ptl
04 10/8 VFC Kissimmee
03 4/11 WPB, 4/12 HOB Orlando, 7/8,9 MSG
00 8/24 Jones Bch 8/9,10 WPB
1998 9/22,23 WPB 1996 10/7 Ft Laud 1994 3/28 Miami
Thank you..."it was back in Blind River in 1962...."F"n brilliant!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0j6bkd-LKG8
SOOOO FUCKING AWESOME!
-Mark Twain
seems like a tribute to neil's amazing live at massey hall album
2006: Camden 1&2, East Ruth 1&2
2008: BONNAROO, MSG1, MSG2, Hartford
2009: Philly 1, 2, 4
2010: Hartford, MSG1, MSG2
2012: Made in America
2013: BK1, BK2, Hartford
2015: Global Citizens
2016: MSG 2 (ISO MSG1)
EV Solo: NJPAC 2008; Tower Theatre, PA 2009; Hartford 2011
Vegas 93, Vegas 98, Vegas 00 (10 year show), Vegas 03, Vegas 06
VIC 07
EV LA1 08
Seattle1 09, Seattle2 09, Salt Lake 09, LA4 09
Columbus 10
EV LA 11
Vancouver 11
Missoula 12
Portland 13, Spokane 13
St. Paul 14, Denver 14
Not only did I get awesome tickets to two fantastic shows (1. night: 3rd row, 2. night: 10th row), I also got to see them with a truly wonderful guy. Thank you, WHOiAM.
Thank you Eddie, thanks 10c.
MOTH...ssesh, what can I say. I am speechless.
Noah thats AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I thought I saw you going towards the front row! Congrats!! I dunno if I said it to you...think I did...that you never know...you could be the lucky one that gets upgraded...and voila!!! I'm sooo happy for you!! Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy!!
I was 7th row centre last night myself...and I saw your g/f go to the stage to get her pic. Congrats!! Those Evel Kinevel picks are pretty sweet huh!
I ended up right by your seats for Old Man onwards. Sweet view!!
ohh and yw about the poster. Enjoy!
Thanks Mel. It was an awesome night. Did you prefer night 1 or 2?