REM
Clokey was talking to me the other day about gigs. REM, apparently, is a band that you have to have seen at least once in your life.
I'd agree.
Now this is neither a good or a bad thing. REM are a funny band. I don't think about them that much, and when I do I always think of everybody hurts. This is sort of annoying to me, because they have other songs that kick so much ass (end of the world and man on the moon spring to mind instantly). So I sort of ignore them, because they float in and out of my music taste, and frustrate me.
However, when I was offered the opportunity to check out REM at Hyde Park I had visions of the Chilis gig I went to last year, so I jumped at them. I must thank Clokey for the chance, and it fucking sucked that he couldn't be there as well.
This gig was a bit special, not just for us, but for the band. Because of the bombs the week before the gig had been moved. This resulted in this being the last gig of the tour, and man these guys had been everywhere.
The were supported by some band that lacked impact so I forgot them, Idlewild, and Feeder.
Idlewild
They were good enough to make me want to go and by their new CD. You should too, if only for the awesome Love Steals Us from Loneliness. They were very good, but I don't know their back catalog well enough to pick highlights.
Feeder
Also kicked ass. I didn't think I knew much of their stuff, but I did. I knew it all. I like it when that happens. Now they are a good band with some good tracks, but the highlight was brand new car for sure. In fact, I believe there is a video here.
REM
Were amazing. Too many awesome tracks and events to list.
The blue stripe was there.
Pattie Smith was a nice touch.
Most touching moment was obviously Everybody Hurst. Yes it hit me hard, but things are a little tough at the moment. If anything it's a testiment to an awesome song, and a great performance. I taped it here.
End of the World was cool (a bit of it is here.
Man on the Moon. Awesome. There is a bit here.
I also recall What's the Frequency Kenneth? being amazing, but I was busying messaging those who couldn't be there. You were all missed.
So yeah. I've seen REM. Not sure if I'd go again. I don't think I'd go if it was just me, but I'd defiantly want to take someone special who hasn't been before.
Like I said. It was the end of the tour. We even got treated to a bit of it's the end of the tour as we know it...
The ones that made it: Lee, Joel, Nise and I. Cheers chaps.
[posted with ecto]