With the country still in the midst of lockdown and no sign of any live music in the foreseeable future if at all this year I thought I would take the opportunity to look back in the archives, sounds posh I know but it’s just an spreadsheet, and revisit gigs I attended on this day down the years. I will keep this going until I can attend my first gig again in person so hopefully this also brings back memories for my gig going chums who have joined me on this great musical journey down the years.
Just the one today but what a show for my trip down memory lane for you down the years
2018, Pearl Jam, O2 Arena, London
I wrote profusely about this and the June Pearl Jam show here. Tonight is the rearranged show as PJ cancelled the original June date due to Eddie‘s voice going south.
Giving up my box tickets tonight, John and I venture onto the floor to really soak it all in. It’s a different set from June and being on the floor gives a completely different perspective and indeed engagement. My preference is always the stalls while my legs can still support me for two hours at a gig. I feel that you are far more connected to the band and the music.
And so it proves tonight. Whilst the June show was brilliant, tonight’s show racks it up a level. Thirty three songs in the set and there’s something for everyone as the set takes in tracks from across their back catalogue but I’m especially please d that half of ‘Ten’ are played tonight.
This is a proper full on rock show for this band who have been together forever and it’s all so natural. Special props to Mike McCready who remains one of my favourite guitarists and people in music. He demonstrates fantastically that you can have an intrusive medical condition but still have a great career without too much compromise. Certainly an inspiration in my family.
Rack this one up as another brilliant Pearl Jam show.
That’s it for today’s trip down memory lane. Here’s hoping we can get to some form of normality soon. Support your small local venues and smaller artists in these difficult times, stay safe and keep on rockin y’all.