*** Las Vegas, NV 2 Fanviews Here 5.18.24 ***

aurynsdad

12inchdoc said:

teskeinc said:

Jill and Harper were in the pit. Ed sang “Something Special” to Harper who made it to the rail.

Ed complained of throat issues possibly from the dry desert and got an IV for it. Not noticeable by me. Special and Won’t Tell made 10/11 Dark Matter over 2 Vegas shows (Got To Give).

Ed seemed choked up over the gambling/EB thing. I’m pretty sure that was orchestrated pre-show by Jill. On cue 10-15 people had a paper with All-in for  EB and a butterfly pic. The girl handed Eddie the envelope and wrote, “I stayed up all night gambling but the casino got the Upper Hand, thank you for this amazing experience”.

The setlist was solid but the Encore set left a lot to be desired. Especially with 4 repeats from Thursday. 

All in all it was a great 2 night run. Really enjoyed the new material live and the addition of the graphics screen really added a cool element to the show. Here’s hoping for the Sphere residency next year!

I can attest to the scenario regarding the gambling and donation as I was there. My friend had a difficult time deciding what to do with the money and felt immense pressure (everybody had an opinion and did become a bit overwhelming). She was a very measured player at the roulette table, but that why Vegas has such nice buildings and she lost it all. Pictures were snapped of her gambling and the pit bosses/security didn't take to kindly or care it was Ed's or Stone's money.

I won't speak as to how she felt (I know how I would've felt). I do know that an organic plan among that she set into motion with fellow friends turned into something incredibly special. Another GA fan had those signs printed at her hotel business center. There wasn't enough for everyone that donated, but message was recieved. Despite losing it all, a greater thing arose.

I can certainly tell you that it was not orchestrated from Jill or the band. Just an opportunity tto give back to a band that has given to all of us so much through the years.

The whole experience will live on as one of the great moments I've witnessed.

Beautiful

Johnny Abruzzo

Does anyone have a link to the charity? (or is it just The Vitalogy Foundation?)

curleybarney

Red Mosquito said:

Anyone else in section 11 where the guy projectile vomited 10 minutes before PJ hit the stage? Awful scene. This guy cleared out like 3 rows of people and it smelled awful. Luckily staff came down to clean some of it up. Some people can’t handle Vegas. 

It didn’t ruin the show for us. The band sounded as connected as ever. Ed clearly deferring to the crowd to carry some of the singing, and the crowd sounded great! 

Oh God... I was in 11 but didn't notice this thankfully (was down quite low in the section so a bit ignorant to anything happening behind)

i am a target

Crazy Out of my Mind said:

Doesn't the band realize many fans go to both shows?  If so 9 repeats and the last 3 songs the same yet again???!

This is the kind of comment I love to read on this message board. I can just imagine Ed sitting there thinking "Well, we're playing two shows and there's a great chance there will be people who go both nights. We should probably worry more about them than the people who only go to one night.*insert epic eye roll here* Fuck, those people. Ugh."

amy_california

Johnny Abruzzo said:

Does anyone have a link to the charity? (or is it just The Vitalogy Foundation?)

Hi - It's https://www.ebresearch.org/

markin ball

Both shows were very very good. Night 1 was a top-tier all-timer, a perfect Dark Matter tour show. The Sometimes to HTI to Black to Hail, Hail beginning was up there with the most fun I've had at any concert. But there were some great moment in night 2 that made it very special in its own right, the stories of which have been told by others here. What we all love about this band are the different setlists and experiences we get with each show but the hill I will die on is that Alive should be in every encore and YL should close every show. Those have become part of the enduring magic we feel in a Pearl Jam show just as much as getting Hard to Imagine. Setting Sun is a great "bonus" track, though, and you can tell the band really believes in the new songs. Ed sang his heart out both nights and especially to Harper during Something Special. I can't shake the feeling that something is not 100% with Mike. He did his job and did it well, but I don't know, seems like his mind might be somewhere else. Seemed like he just wasn't in the mood to melt our faces during YL on night 1. He appeared somewhat uneasy and withdrawn in the Zane Lowe interview as well. I sincerely hope he's not having a rough time with something personal or the band. 

Johnny Abruzzo

amy_california said:

Johnny Abruzzo said:

Does anyone have a link to the charity? (or is it just The Vitalogy Foundation?)

Hi - It's https://www.ebresearch.org/

Awesome!

Donated half my black jack winnings.

Given to...

teskeinc said:

Jill and Harper were in the pit. Ed sang “Something Special” to Harper who made it to the rail.

Ed complained of throat issues possibly from the dry desert and got an IV for it. Not noticeable by me. Special and Won’t Tell made 10/11 Dark Matter over 2 Vegas shows (Got To Give).

Ed seemed choked up over the gambling/EB thing. I’m pretty sure that was orchestrated pre-show by Jill. On cue 10-15 people had a paper with All-in for  EB and a butterfly pic. The girl handed Eddie the envelope and wrote, “I stayed up all night gambling but the casino got the Upper Hand, thank you for this amazing experience”.

The setlist was solid but the Encore set left a lot to be desired. Especially with 4 repeats from Thursday. 

All in all it was a great 2 night run. Really enjoyed the new material live and the addition of the graphics screen really added a cool element to the show. Here’s hoping for the Sphere residency next year!

MegaFans Erin and her mate Jaco (from Canada and South Africa) were personally responsible for gathering the donations in the GA line after trying to increase the experiment at the tables, the slots, and the Roullet wheel for a day and a half.  They are the most kind and genuine people you will find, as she was stressed about wanting to turn it into something worthy.  I believe it was all on her own that she went about gathering donations just before we were ushered behind the GA barricades around 4:30.

 To gauge just how kind and genuine they are... she shared the bottle of wine that Ed gave her with multiple fans, me and my wife included.  Not sure how she pulled off getting the EB signs all printed up and distributed, but that was indeed one of the highlights of the show.  Ed was clearly moved!

GlowGirl

Given to... said:

teskeinc said:

Jill and Harper were in the pit. Ed sang “Something Special” to Harper who made it to the rail.

Ed complained of throat issues possibly from the dry desert and got an IV for it. Not noticeable by me. Special and Won’t Tell made 10/11 Dark Matter over 2 Vegas shows (Got To Give).

Ed seemed choked up over the gambling/EB thing. I’m pretty sure that was orchestrated pre-show by Jill. On cue 10-15 people had a paper with All-in for  EB and a butterfly pic. The girl handed Eddie the envelope and wrote, “I stayed up all night gambling but the casino got the Upper Hand, thank you for this amazing experience”.

The setlist was solid but the Encore set left a lot to be desired. Especially with 4 repeats from Thursday. 

All in all it was a great 2 night run. Really enjoyed the new material live and the addition of the graphics screen really added a cool element to the show. Here’s hoping for the Sphere residency next year!

MegaFans Erin and her mate Jaco (from Canada and South Africa) were personally responsible for gathering the donations in the GA line after trying to increase the experiment at the tables, the slots, and the Roullet wheel for a day and a half.  They are the most kind and genuine people you will find, as she was stressed about wanting to turn it into something worthy.  I believe it was all on her own that she went about gathering donations just before we were ushered behind the GA barricades around 4:30.

 To gauge just how kind and genuine they are... she shared the bottle of wine that Ed gave her with multiple fans, me and my wife included.  Not sure how she pulled off getting the EB signs all printed up and distributed, but that was indeed one of the highlights of the show.  Ed was clearly moved!

Erin and Jaco are friends of mine. I can attest to how awesome they both are. Really amazing and kind-hearted people.

Ute Lew

My son and I went to both incredible shows in Vegas. During Vegas II, Ed was amazing to my son. He gave him a guitar pic, a setlist, and of course a tambourine.  He checked on him twice making sure he was ok and during Once he was up on the big screen for 10 seconds just rocking out.  Greatest night ever.  Thank you to everyone around us who was so kind and made my son feel so welcome.  He is still on cloud 9 and could not wait to get to school to tell his teacher and friends.  Thank you everyone!

pjamphil

Great show! Were there some ones I didn't get, of course! Garden early on was awesome. My wife's first show after we got married in March. I've been working hard to show her what this band is made of (shouldn't be so hard, for some that don't understand it takes some extra effort haha). Music aside, she is a teacher and loved the teacher appreciation shoutout. She thought they were great live (shocker lol). She said evolution and special are her new favorite songs. She has had to hear me listen to evolution like 10 times prior haha, but she said the video effects made it so much better. As always, fun night, met some cool fans per usual. Loved you are, severed hand, and of the girl! Boston here we come! Sect. 21 BTW!!!

JS120496

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Let start by saying that there’s nothing quite like the energy of a Pearl Jam Concert.  This is my 3rd show of this tour (saw VAN night 1 and PDX) and 43rd lifetime show (44 and 45 will be Wrigley this year).  The new songs translate (seamlessly) into the live show and the addition of the screens/projections behind the band were spectacular—soaring landscapes/band projections that synchronize beautifully with the music (it really crescendos to the end in some ways—feels like a journey).  

But for me, what really stood out in this show was the kindness of the Pearl Jam community.  I attended the show with my 9 year old son (it’s his 2nd PJ show—first was United Center night 1 last year).  We had seats on the floor behind GA, but in the last row.  We were sitting next to a tenclubber, who was super kind.  My son even asked him to guess the opener (and he played along).  Right before PJ came on, he told me he was thirsty and needed to get to the bathroom.  We ran quickly up the stairs and made it down as the band got on stage, and to our seats by “Of the Girl.”  He tried standing on the chair, but still had a hard time seeing the stage.  That’s when magic happened.

A very kind woman approached us with wrist bands and asked if we would like to move into the pit.  She told me that she locked eyes with my son and thought he would enjoy the show closer up front.  She said if it didn’t work out, we could go back to our seats.  We put he wristbands on and followed her into GA.  It was still hard to see, but I was able to hoist him onto my shoulders for the songs he was anticipating (Dark Matter, Wreckage, Elderly Woman, Evenflow) before security (very kindly) asked me to get him off my shoulder.  I obliged and we danced and made the most of what we were given.  At that point, another fan told me that she had gotten pictures of us and was willing to share them with me (she said she enjoyed us enjoying the music).  We also had 2 people (the original person we met and another man) give us McCreedy guitar pics (we were on the McCreedy side of the stage).  As the show went on, I tried to hoist him up on my shoulders again (during Alive) and was told by security to take him down again.  The original person we met then came into the pit (she must have been watching) and told me to put my son on my shoulders and she would stop security.  My son was relieved and I happily obliged (during YL).  That’s when the head of security came and was very upset.  However, our original patron would not relent—showing her badge and fiercely defending us.  Seeing all of this, I really didn’t want to cause an issue, so I said we didn’t want to cause trouble and got him down.  About that time, 2 folks from the crew came by with a pair of Matt Cameron’s sticks and a copy of the setlist.  2 other kind folks then kindly pushed us toward the second row(ish) part of the crowd so he could see “Setting Sun” (another favorite of both of ours—and now maybe with new meaning for me).  It was electrifying and the connection from the stage was tangible.

My son was just floating—it was unbelievable.   As we were leaving, I paused to thank our original stranger/friend for all of her kindness.  It made such a difference for our experience.  She then introduced herself as Ashley and that she was Mike McCreedy’s wife.  She relayed that she and Mike had 3 sons and one was close to my son’s age.  This revelation added another layer of meaning to her generosity.  She treated us with extreme kindness, focussing on making our experience memorable by seeing the world through the eyes of a parent and a fan.

It’s amazing (to me) that Pearl Jam has explicitly sought out the creation of a community with their music. To me, it’s far more amazing what has come of this creation.  Ashley’s kindness and down-to-earth nature made us feel like we were part of a special community.  Reflecting on the night, I am also reminded of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have.  Her gesture was a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people and the power of music to bring us together.  

My son and I will always cherish our Pearl Jam concert in Vegas.  Thank you, Ashley, for giving us a night to remember.  Also, thank you to the (other kind) stranger who sent us the pictures and videos that will help us remember this time (forever).  May our days be long until kingdom come.

Gern Blansten

JS120496 said:

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Let start by saying that there’s nothing quite like the energy of a Pearl Jam Concert.  This is my 3rd show of this tour (saw VAN night 1 and PDX) and 43rd lifetime show (44 and 45 will be Wrigley this year).  The new songs translate (seamlessly) into the live show and the addition of the screens/projections behind the band were spectacular—soaring landscapes/band projections that synchronize beautifully with the music (it really crescendos to the end in some ways—feels like a journey).  

But for me, what really stood out in this show was the kindness of the Pearl Jam community.  I attended the show with my 9 year old son (it’s his 2nd PJ show—first was United Center night 1 last year).  We had seats on the floor behind GA, but in the last row.  We were sitting next to a tenclubber, who was super kind.  My son even asked him to guess the opener (and he played along).  Right before PJ came on, he told me he was thirsty and needed to get to the bathroom.  We ran quickly up the stairs and made it down as the band got on stage, and to our seats by “Of the Girl.”  He tried standing on the chair, but still had a hard time seeing the stage.  That’s when magic happened.

A very kind woman approached us with wrist bands and asked if we would like to move into the pit.  She told me that she locked eyes with my son and thought he would enjoy the show closer up front.  She said if it didn’t work out, we could go back to our seats.  We put he wristbands on and followed her into GA.  It was still hard to see, but I was able to hoist him onto my shoulders for the songs he was anticipating (Dark Matter, Wreckage, Elderly Woman, Evenflow) before security (very kindly) asked me to get him off my shoulder.  I obliged and we danced and made the most of what we were given.  At that point, another fan told me that she had gotten pictures of us and was willing to share them with them (she said she enjoyed us enjoying the music).  We also had 2 people (the original person we met and another man) give us McCreedy guitar pics (we were on the McCreedy side of the stage).  As the show went on, I tried to hoist him up on my shoulders again (during Alive) and was told by security to take him down again.  The original person we met then came into the pit (she must have been watching) and told me to put my son on my shoulders and she would stop security.  My son was relieved and I happily obliged (during YL).  That’s when the head of security came and was very upset.  However, our original patron would not relent—showing her badge and fiercely defending us.  Seeing all of this, I really didn’t want to cause an issue, so I said we didn’t want to cause trouble and got him down.  About that time, 2 folks from the crew came by with a pair of Matt Cameron’s sticks and a copy of the setlist.  2 other kind folks then kindly pushed us toward the second row(ish) part of the crowd so he could see “Setting Sun” (another favorite of both of ours—and now maybe with new meaning for me).  It was electrifying and the connection from the stage was tangible.

My son was just floating—it was unbelievable.   As we were leaving, I paused to thank our original stranger/friend for all of her kindness.  It made such a difference for our experience.  She then introduced herself as Ashley and that she was Mike McCreedy’s wife.  She relayed that she and Mike had 3 sons and one was close to my son’s age.  This revelation added another layer of meaning to her generosity.  She treated us with extreme kindness, focussing on making our experience memorable by seeing the world through the eyes of a parent and a fan.

It’s amazing (to me) that Pearl Jam has explicitly sought out the creation of a community with their music. To me, it’s far more amazing what has come of this creation.  Ashley’s kindness and down-to-earth nature made us feel like we were part of a special community.  Reflecting on the night, I am also reminded of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have.  Her gesture was a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people and the power of music to bring us together.  

My son and I will always cherish our Pearl Jam concert in Vegas.  Thank you, Ashley, for giving us a night to remember.  Also, thank you to the (other kind) stranger who sent us the pictures and videos that will help us remember this time (forever).  May our days be long until kingdom come.

wow...awesome stuff

Overholtca

vitodacat said:

I’m looking forward to someday dancing with my (3) daughters at their weddings to Something Special

I love this. Just listened to Something Special as my daughter is about to graduate high school, and it brought a tear to my eye. Such a great song. "The one I used to hold is, oh, so special"

Given to...

JS120496 said:

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Let start by saying that there’s nothing quite like the energy of a Pearl Jam Concert.  This is my 3rd show of this tour (saw VAN night 1 and PDX) and 43rd lifetime show (44 and 45 will be Wrigley this year).  The new songs translate (seamlessly) into the live show and the addition of the screens/projections behind the band were spectacular—soaring landscapes/band projections that synchronize beautifully with the music (it really crescendos to the end in some ways—feels like a journey).  

But for me, what really stood out in this show was the kindness of the Pearl Jam community.  I attended the show with my 9 year old son (it’s his 2nd PJ show—first was United Center night 1 last year).  We had seats on the floor behind GA, but in the last row.  We were sitting next to a tenclubber, who was super kind.  My son even asked him to guess the opener (and he played along).  Right before PJ came on, he told me he was thirsty and needed to get to the bathroom.  We ran quickly up the stairs and made it down as the band got on stage, and to our seats by “Of the Girl.”  He tried standing on the chair, but still had a hard time seeing the stage.  That’s when magic happened.

A very kind woman approached us with wrist bands and asked if we would like to move into the pit.  She told me that she locked eyes with my son and thought he would enjoy the show closer up front.  She said if it didn’t work out, we could go back to our seats.  We put he wristbands on and followed her into GA.  It was still hard to see, but I was able to hoist him onto my shoulders for the songs he was anticipating (Dark Matter, Wreckage, Elderly Woman, Evenflow) before security (very kindly) asked me to get him off my shoulder.  I obliged and we danced and made the most of what we were given.  At that point, another fan told me that she had gotten pictures of us and was willing to share them with me (she said she enjoyed us enjoying the music).  We also had 2 people (the original person we met and another man) give us McCreedy guitar pics (we were on the McCreedy side of the stage).  As the show went on, I tried to hoist him up on my shoulders again (during Alive) and was told by security to take him down again.  The original person we met then came into the pit (she must have been watching) and told me to put my son on my shoulders and she would stop security.  My son was relieved and I happily obliged (during YL).  That’s when the head of security came and was very upset.  However, our original patron would not relent—showing her badge and fiercely defending us.  Seeing all of this, I really didn’t want to cause an issue, so I said we didn’t want to cause trouble and got him down.  About that time, 2 folks from the crew came by with a pair of Matt Cameron’s sticks and a copy of the setlist.  2 other kind folks then kindly pushed us toward the second row(ish) part of the crowd so he could see “Setting Sun” (another favorite of both of ours—and now maybe with new meaning for me).  It was electrifying and the connection from the stage was tangible.

My son was just floating—it was unbelievable.   As we were leaving, I paused to thank our original stranger/friend for all of her kindness.  It made such a difference for our experience.  She then introduced herself as Ashley and that she was Mike McCreedy’s wife.  She relayed that she and Mike had 3 sons and one was close to my son’s age.  This revelation added another layer of meaning to her generosity.  She treated us with extreme kindness, focussing on making our experience memorable by seeing the world through the eyes of a parent and a fan.

It’s amazing (to me) that Pearl Jam has explicitly sought out the creation of a community with their music. To me, it’s far more amazing what has come of this creation.  Ashley’s kindness and down-to-earth nature made us feel like we were part of a special community.  Reflecting on the night, I am also reminded of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have.  Her gesture was a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people and the power of music to bring us together.  

My son and I will always cherish our Pearl Jam concert in Vegas.  Thank you, Ashley, for giving us a night to remember.  Also, thank you to the (other kind) stranger who sent us the pictures and videos that will help us remember this time (forever).  May our days be long until kingdom come.

Goosebumps!

cincybearcat

Given to... said:

teskeinc said:

Jill and Harper were in the pit. Ed sang “Something Special” to Harper who made it to the rail.

Ed complained of throat issues possibly from the dry desert and got an IV for it. Not noticeable by me. Special and Won’t Tell made 10/11 Dark Matter over 2 Vegas shows (Got To Give).

Ed seemed choked up over the gambling/EB thing. I’m pretty sure that was orchestrated pre-show by Jill. On cue 10-15 people had a paper with All-in for  EB and a butterfly pic. The girl handed Eddie the envelope and wrote, “I stayed up all night gambling but the casino got the Upper Hand, thank you for this amazing experience”.

The setlist was solid but the Encore set left a lot to be desired. Especially with 4 repeats from Thursday. 

All in all it was a great 2 night run. Really enjoyed the new material live and the addition of the graphics screen really added a cool element to the show. Here’s hoping for the Sphere residency next year!

MegaFans Erin and her mate Jaco (from Canada and South Africa) were personally responsible for gathering the donations in the GA line after trying to increase the experiment at the tables, the slots, and the Roullet wheel for a day and a half.  They are the most kind and genuine people you will find, as she was stressed about wanting to turn it into something worthy.  I believe it was all on her own that she went about gathering donations just before we were ushered behind the GA barricades around 4:30.

 To gauge just how kind and genuine they are... she shared the bottle of wine that Ed gave her with multiple fans, me and my wife included.  Not sure how she pulled off getting the EB signs all printed up and distributed, but that was indeed one of the highlights of the show.  Ed was clearly moved!

Was awesome of all involved.  Very cool!

cincybearcat

Ok, so I was bummed when I saw the N1 setlist and knew i had no chance at Tremor Christ...I've only ever gotten it 1x.  But it's still PJ and once they start playing I'm always just happy I am there.

I thought they sounded great.  Ed mentioned voice troubles, but he sounded pretty strong to me and powered through.  If they would have played all of Dark Matter I would have been ecstatic...getting 7 was great.  I'll have to wait for 2 of my top 3 (SoF and Upper Hand) for another day.  But being there with my daughter made Something Special....well....something special!!!!  

Highlights for me - Of the Girl, You Are, Out of my Mind and all the Dark Matter songs except maybe Dark Matter...sounded a bit off, but probably being picky.  Highlights for my daughter - All of Dark Matter but especially Wreckage, Small Town, Once, Better Man.

A very talkative Ed was fun.  Resting your voice by talking is funny to think about.  

And I really would like to thank Ed for the discussion on women and what they should choose....and who should be choosing for them...to do with their lives vs the kicker.  My Daughter lit up and screamed like he was talking directly to her.  I can't wait to see if she picks Dance or Engineering (2 very different paths hahahaha)....though I suspect it will be Engineering.  And to have a famous artist on stage providing that message is sometimes better than your mom or dad.  Will be the #1 takaway for both of us from this show....we will talk about it forever.

Johnny Abruzzo

I finally watched the video of that bozo this morning. Don't have daughters but trying really hard to instill in our sons the complete opposite of what that guy said. The irony of a guy that kicks footballs for a living getting on a high horse like that...

RedMosquitoSmile28

12inchdoc said:

teskeinc said:

Jill and Harper were in the pit. Ed sang “Something Special” to Harper who made it to the rail.

Ed complained of throat issues possibly from the dry desert and got an IV for it. Not noticeable by me. Special and Won’t Tell made 10/11 Dark Matter over 2 Vegas shows (Got To Give).

Ed seemed choked up over the gambling/EB thing. I’m pretty sure that was orchestrated pre-show by Jill. On cue 10-15 people had a paper with All-in for  EB and a butterfly pic. The girl handed Eddie the envelope and wrote, “I stayed up all night gambling but the casino got the Upper Hand, thank you for this amazing experience”.

The setlist was solid but the Encore set left a lot to be desired. Especially with 4 repeats from Thursday. 

All in all it was a great 2 night run. Really enjoyed the new material live and the addition of the graphics screen really added a cool element to the show. Here’s hoping for the Sphere residency next year!

I can attest to the scenario regarding the gambling and donation as I was there. My friend had a difficult time deciding what to do with the money and felt immense pressure (everybody had an opinion and did become a bit overwhelming). She was a very measured player at the roulette table, but that's why Vegas has such nice buildings and she lost it all. Pictures were snapped of her gambling and the pit bosses/security didn't take to kindly or care it was Ed's or Stone's money.

I won't speak as to how she felt (I know how I would've felt). I do know that an organic plan that she set into motion with fellow friends turned into something incredibly special. Another GA fan had those signs printed at her hotel business center. There wasn't enough for everyone that donated, but message was recieved. Despite losing it all, a greater thing arose.

I can certainly tell you that it was not orchestrated from Jill or the band. Just an opportunity to give back to a band that has given to all of us so much through the years.

The whole experience will live on as one of the great moments I've witnessed.

Awesome additions. She showed me the photos too, and again went into detail about the anxiety. I had no problem donating and I think it is awesome that it made it back into the forefront at the show. The fact that people printed the signs too. I know she most likely got most of the donations from GA, but I was in the merch line so she expanded that some. A lady behind me realized what she was doing after the fact and went up to her after she had already moved on a bit and donated too. I sort of wanted to yell from Section 14 that I helped out a little, but soaked it all in and it was an awesome moment. Eddie's response was great. 

ponytd

JS120496 said:

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Let start by saying that there’s nothing quite like the energy of a Pearl Jam Concert.  This is my 3rd show of this tour (saw VAN night 1 and PDX) and 43rd lifetime show (44 and 45 will be Wrigley this year).  The new songs translate (seamlessly) into the live show and the addition of the screens/projections behind the band were spectacular—soaring landscapes/band projections that synchronize beautifully with the music (it really crescendos to the end in some ways—feels like a journey).  

But for me, what really stood out in this show was the kindness of the Pearl Jam community.  I attended the show with my 9 year old son (it’s his 2nd PJ show—first was United Center night 1 last year).  We had seats on the floor behind GA, but in the last row.  We were sitting next to a tenclubber, who was super kind.  My son even asked him to guess the opener (and he played along).  Right before PJ came on, he told me he was thirsty and needed to get to the bathroom.  We ran quickly up the stairs and made it down as the band got on stage, and to our seats by “Of the Girl.”  He tried standing on the chair, but still had a hard time seeing the stage.  That’s when magic happened.

A very kind woman approached us with wrist bands and asked if we would like to move into the pit.  She told me that she locked eyes with my son and thought he would enjoy the show closer up front.  She said if it didn’t work out, we could go back to our seats.  We put he wristbands on and followed her into GA.  It was still hard to see, but I was able to hoist him onto my shoulders for the songs he was anticipating (Dark Matter, Wreckage, Elderly Woman, Evenflow) before security (very kindly) asked me to get him off my shoulder.  I obliged and we danced and made the most of what we were given.  At that point, another fan told me that she had gotten pictures of us and was willing to share them with me (she said she enjoyed us enjoying the music).  We also had 2 people (the original person we met and another man) give us McCreedy guitar pics (we were on the McCreedy side of the stage).  As the show went on, I tried to hoist him up on my shoulders again (during Alive) and was told by security to take him down again.  The original person we met then came into the pit (she must have been watching) and told me to put my son on my shoulders and she would stop security.  My son was relieved and I happily obliged (during YL).  That’s when the head of security came and was very upset.  However, our original patron would not relent—showing her badge and fiercely defending us.  Seeing all of this, I really didn’t want to cause an issue, so I said we didn’t want to cause trouble and got him down.  About that time, 2 folks from the crew came by with a pair of Matt Cameron’s sticks and a copy of the setlist.  2 other kind folks then kindly pushed us toward the second row(ish) part of the crowd so he could see “Setting Sun” (another favorite of both of ours—and now maybe with new meaning for me).  It was electrifying and the connection from the stage was tangible.

My son was just floating—it was unbelievable.   As we were leaving, I paused to thank our original stranger/friend for all of her kindness.  It made such a difference for our experience.  She then introduced herself as Ashley and that she was Mike McCreedy’s wife.  She relayed that she and Mike had 3 sons and one was close to my son’s age.  This revelation added another layer of meaning to her generosity.  She treated us with extreme kindness, focussing on making our experience memorable by seeing the world through the eyes of a parent and a fan.

It’s amazing (to me) that Pearl Jam has explicitly sought out the creation of a community with their music. To me, it’s far more amazing what has come of this creation.  Ashley’s kindness and down-to-earth nature made us feel like we were part of a special community.  Reflecting on the night, I am also reminded of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have.  Her gesture was a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people and the power of music to bring us together.  

My son and I will always cherish our Pearl Jam concert in Vegas.  Thank you, Ashley, for giving us a night to remember.  Also, thank you to the (other kind) stranger who sent us the pictures and videos that will help us remember this time (forever).  May our days be long until kingdom come.

That's awesome. Very happy for y'all!

Tjm007

CROJAM95 said:

mookeywrench said:

Harrison Butker?

Yea got dragged for being a 1st class moron

[post deleted]

Johnny Abruzzo

Tjm007 said:

CROJAM95 said:

mookeywrench said:

Harrison Butker?

Yea got dragged for being a 1st class moron

[post deleted]

Politicians leave women's bodies alone. Religion leave women's bodies alone.

That would by definition include all religions attempting to control women's choices.

Tim Simmons

Tjm007 said:

CROJAM95 said:

mookeywrench said:

Harrison Butker?

Yea got dragged for being a 1st class moron

[post deleted]

I feel like he was attacking a shitty person more than anything. Or do we need the false equivalencies to make a larger tired point of sHuT uP aNd SiNg

BF25394

Tim Simmons said:

Tjm007 said:

CROJAM95 said:

mookeywrench said:

Harrison Butker?

Yea got dragged for being a 1st class moron

[post deleted]

I feel like he was attacking a shitty person more than anything. Or do we need the false equivalencies to make a larger tired point of sHuT uP aNd SiNg

Yeah, Ed wasn't attacking "religion." He was mocking a person whose skewed version of his religion leads him to believe in some ideas that seem out of place in the 21st century. He referred to his wife's belief, and implied that most other women also believe, that "her life truly started when she began living her vocation as a wife and as a mother." This is a pretty insulting statement, implying that women are lifeless husks until they are animated by a husband (Butker's vision does not embrace same-sex spouses) and children. It's also not really supported by the Gospels, in which Jesus never expresses any thoughts along these lines.

Having said that, when my niece graduated eighth grade about fifteen years ago, the priest said in his homily at the graduation Mass that he hoped some of the boys would get the calling to serve God as priests and that some of the girls would become nuns, except he said that he hoped they would "grow up to marry Jesus."

Johnny Abruzzo

BF25394 said:

It's also not really supported by the Gospels, in which Jesus never expresses any thoughts along these lines.

Along with basically all the other crap they want to force on everyone.

jimjam1982

i am a target said:

Crazy Out of my Mind said:

Doesn't the band realize many fans go to both shows?  If so 9 repeats and the last 3 songs the same yet again???!

This is the kind of comment I love to read on this message board. I can just imagine Ed sitting there thinking "Well, we're playing two shows and there's a great chance there will be people who go both nights. We should probably worry more about them than the people who only go to one night.*insert epic eye roll here* Fuck, those people. Ugh."

Very few people actually go to 1 show when 2 are in the same city.  Ed polled the crowd, the roar was thunderous for how many of us were also there N1.  

Thanks for your input johnny one show. 

But yes, 100% shows that have 2 nights in 1 city should be tailored to be a 2 night show with where the 2 nights are basically equivalent to one 2013 to 2018 show where you could get 50 different songs and just repeat alive.

12inchdoc

JS120496 said:

Long time lurker, first time poster.

Let start by saying that there’s nothing quite like the energy of a Pearl Jam Concert.  This is my 3rd show of this tour (saw VAN night 1 and PDX) and 43rd lifetime show (44 and 45 will be Wrigley this year).  The new songs translate (seamlessly) into the live show and the addition of the screens/projections behind the band were spectacular—soaring landscapes/band projections that synchronize beautifully with the music (it really crescendos to the end in some ways—feels like a journey).  

But for me, what really stood out in this show was the kindness of the Pearl Jam community.  I attended the show with my 9 year old son (it’s his 2nd PJ show—first was United Center night 1 last year).  We had seats on the floor behind GA, but in the last row.  We were sitting next to a tenclubber, who was super kind.  My son even asked him to guess the opener (and he played along).  Right before PJ came on, he told me he was thirsty and needed to get to the bathroom.  We ran quickly up the stairs and made it down as the band got on stage, and to our seats by “Of the Girl.”  He tried standing on the chair, but still had a hard time seeing the stage.  That’s when magic happened.

A very kind woman approached us with wrist bands and asked if we would like to move into the pit.  She told me that she locked eyes with my son and thought he would enjoy the show closer up front.  She said if it didn’t work out, we could go back to our seats.  We put he wristbands on and followed her into GA.  It was still hard to see, but I was able to hoist him onto my shoulders for the songs he was anticipating (Dark Matter, Wreckage, Elderly Woman, Evenflow) before security (very kindly) asked me to get him off my shoulder.  I obliged and we danced and made the most of what we were given.  At that point, another fan told me that she had gotten pictures of us and was willing to share them with me (she said she enjoyed us enjoying the music).  We also had 2 people (the original person we met and another man) give us McCreedy guitar pics (we were on the McCreedy side of the stage).  As the show went on, I tried to hoist him up on my shoulders again (during Alive) and was told by security to take him down again.  The original person we met then came into the pit (she must have been watching) and told me to put my son on my shoulders and she would stop security.  My son was relieved and I happily obliged (during YL).  That’s when the head of security came and was very upset.  However, our original patron would not relent—showing her badge and fiercely defending us.  Seeing all of this, I really didn’t want to cause an issue, so I said we didn’t want to cause trouble and got him down.  About that time, 2 folks from the crew came by with a pair of Matt Cameron’s sticks and a copy of the setlist.  2 other kind folks then kindly pushed us toward the second row(ish) part of the crowd so he could see “Setting Sun” (another favorite of both of ours—and now maybe with new meaning for me).  It was electrifying and the connection from the stage was tangible.

My son was just floating—it was unbelievable.   As we were leaving, I paused to thank our original stranger/friend for all of her kindness.  It made such a difference for our experience.  She then introduced herself as Ashley and that she was Mike McCreedy’s wife.  She relayed that she and Mike had 3 sons and one was close to my son’s age.  This revelation added another layer of meaning to her generosity.  She treated us with extreme kindness, focussing on making our experience memorable by seeing the world through the eyes of a parent and a fan.

It’s amazing (to me) that Pearl Jam has explicitly sought out the creation of a community with their music. To me, it’s far more amazing what has come of this creation.  Ashley’s kindness and down-to-earth nature made us feel like we were part of a special community.  Reflecting on the night, I am also reminded of the profound impact that small acts of kindness can have.  Her gesture was a beautiful reminder of the goodness in people and the power of music to bring us together.  

My son and I will always cherish our Pearl Jam concert in Vegas.  Thank you, Ashley, for giving us a night to remember.  Also, thank you to the (other kind) stranger who sent us the pictures and videos that will help us remember this time (forever).  May our days be long until kingdom come.

What an amazing experience! Smiling for y'all.

Tjm007

deleted. See the Posting Guidelines.

The_Giant_Midget

So I'll preface this by saying obviously this band puts on shows that are better than 99% of other artists out there and im very fortunate to have seen them many times....but night 2 wasn't really close to the show that night 1 was.

After Thursday where we saw such a great setlist (created at 4 AM as Ed said), the band playing out of their minds, Andrew Watt joining them on stage, etc I figured we were in for a treat since it was Saturday night in Vegas and usually the last show in a town is better. Also adding in the back of my mind I thought that we could maybe seen some more Binaural bday love and it being the anniversary of Chris Cornell's passing that it wasn't just going to be an ordinary show, but unfortunately it kinda was.

My main issue was all the stop downs due to Ed's voice, there was just no flow to the show with him chatting in between each song and it was a lot more than usual. I've seen 27 shows now, im quite used to Ed talking and I understand fully that it's to help out his voice due to his apparent throat issues but it never let the crowd kick it into high gear which is a shame because I feel like it could've been just as good of a crowd as night 1. Of course the EB donation portion was amazing and he gave a few nice shout outs but a few times I was literally looking down at my watch hoping he'd move it along.

I'm not what you'd call a "song chaser," I don't really have many songs I haven't seen that I desperately need to see to feel satisfied, I'd rather see songs that I enjoy even if I have before. That being said having the same show ending as night 1 (yes, I know Setting Sun is a lock), Porch and Evenflow again kinda stunk. Was hoping for more variety but looks like the set was made with Ed's voice in mind so they picked songs with extended guitar solos. I will also add Out of My Mind doesn't do much for me, i have strangely seen it 3/6 times its been played and the non die-hards in the crowd just seemed kinda confused by it. If the dropped in another rarity instead of MYM that start of the show could've rivaled night 1.

To give out some positives because I really am not trying to poo poo everything - it was great they decided to move around the Dark Matter songs within the set and despite some not loving Wreckage/Something Special I think they're great. I'd probably move Something Special to the first song in the encore or during the main set but I thoroughly enjoy all the new stuff. night 1 probably had the crowd favorites in Stevie, Upper Hand & Scared of Fear but I will take as much Dark Matter as possible at any show. 

You Are might've been the best performance ive seen from them ever. You can tell they rehearsed it, Ed sounded great and finally the screens made sense! The visuals enhanced that song so much, it was so trippy. truly a PJ concert moment I'll never forget. The highlights of the show were easily having them open with Of the Girl, the entire crowd singing Garden, throwing in Severed Hand in the middle, a surprise Spin the Black Circle and the insane version of You Are. 

Again really not trying to come off as an entitled fan, I'm simply giving my point of view of someone who walked into night 2 thinking we could've had like an MSG2 2010 situation after how off the charts night 1 was. I mean even Jeff posted on social media saying how great Thursday was. On the way out I asked my fiancé, who is not a die-hard fan, which show she preferred and she also said night 1 citing how special the crowd was. This show was good, better than most touring bands can do but it was lacking that special feel to put into my upper echelon of PJ shows. 

Johnny Abruzzo

I think being in GA I was too close to appreciate the screen. Didn’t notice anything about it during You Are. Real first world problems here. 🤣