A review by Tara

Well, as you can tell I was a tad bit disappointed. It pains me to admit this, but it's the truth. I think it's due to two things- my seats, which were lousy and made me feel as if I was in a completely different time zone from the band (which also affected the sound), and having absolutely no surprises since I faitfully kept up with the setlists they played on the road (my fault alone! :-).

I was sad to walk away with no real surprises- hearing both "Bed of Roses" and "Always" in one show was quite a treat, so that was the closest to a surprise for me. I of course still had a fantastic time- danced my butt off, screamed and sang until my vocal chords were worn down to a measely little nub. But sadly, with my seats, I didn't really feel as much a part of it all as I have been at past Bon Jovi shows. I did adore hearing album cuts from Slippery. But to be at that show and have to watch a giant video screen and not REALLY hear the wonderful musical nuances from Jon and Richie (I could hear the rhythm section and Dave's keys the best!)...it's just not what one hopes. Of course I could tell what songs were playing and I sang along...but it's not the same. I'd love to report how Jon was in fine voice and Richie smoked in all his solos...but I honestly couldn't hear it. Maybe it was the crowd?? It's also the acoustics. Being in a massive open space...it's bound to just fly away.

Richie's solo on "Stranger in this Town" was such a highlight. He just blows my mind, he is so phenomenally talented. What a singer! I'm sure the crowd was really impressed (all I can say is, I knew it all along! hehehe). And I really had a great time dancing my butt off to "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead", "Bad Medicine", and especially, "Wild in the Streets" and "Raise Your Hands". "It's My Life" has never been a favorite of mine, but the crowd's immediate participation and energy has really changed my mind! What a phenomenal live song!

When Jon began singing "Prayer" a capella, and the crowd joined in...wow, it was just an amazing moment. His power over the crowd never ceases to amaze me. He flashes a smile...dances around...and the crowd goes ballistic!

So next time...I'm spending the bucks to get the good seats and I am going to stay off the internet! Hehehee.

I still love the band and they put on an AMAZING show no matter how it ends up by the time it hits the nosebleed seats.

I'm going again tonight...and I have a good feeling they could top it. Maybe throw in some surprises? Maybe "In These Arms"? Maybe a visit from Alec? I could dream...

I will always love them though. There is no band that can make you feel soooo good, as if any troubles in the world are so far away. I love them for that most of all.

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