[Jeeper]

After debating whether I’d ever see them live again, I ended up purchasing two tickets for Anfield. I’m really happy I did.

While the band are not the force they once were, and Jon is obviously struggling vocally, it was still a really enjoyable gig.

Jon seems genuinely happy right now, the band are really tight (one small blip on Twist & Shout if I remember correctly) and despite Phil being quite irritating on Twitter and his perpetual rushing of solos, in all fairness he is infectious to watch. The guy doesn’t stop smiling, making eye contact with the crowd and actually seems to love it up there.

Anfield had a great crowd too, which most definitely helps. That energy rubs off and when you see and hear others enjoying themselves, singing and smiling, it really adds something to an experience.

For me, the bottom line is pretty simple. You’re going to hear Jon skip words, be slightly behind the music, be flat at times. It’s there, but it really didn’t matter all that much with the band playing so great and him moving and enjoying himself. No sulking, no stink eyes, no egos, just a singer doing his best and actually looking interested.

It must be said that I was in great company last night too. My wife and I met up with Jay, his gf, Kev and a few others and they were absolutely brilliant with us. Really friendly, funny and it definitely added to the experience.

I’ve been to shows were Jon has been superb vocally and the crowd have been dull, quiet and half arsed. I’d honestly take last night over that. Those factors I’ve mentioned (energy, enjoyment, great company) go a long way to making a show for me.

I totally understand why some people don’t want to see/hear Jon struggle through a show. I almost didn’t go for that exact reason. But I’m really happy I did now.

Back to the gig. The set list was average to say the least. I actually don’t mind Amen but it needs dropping immediately. My wife said to me, “why play that song Amen. It’s shit. Couldn’t they have played Always, or Bed Of Roses or something we can sing to?” She had a point.

As stated a hundred times, WLOL and LH need separating, dropping or just play one. No need for the two back to back.

WWBTF is shit live, isn’t it? Nothing to do with vocals, it’s just filler.

I’ve no issue with the Beatles covers, only their placement. End on a Bon Jovi song. A good one.

That said, I thought THINFS worked great, the outro is fantastic.

BOB, LYHOM, WDR were really solid. TD wasn’t a train wreck and went down a treat.

I’ve warmed a bit more to Phil X. He’s trying to fill some big shoes and in the main does a good job.

Tico is immense. He’s looking his age but he’s rock solid back there.

I can’t remember if Jon introduced him actually. I know he did with Hugh, Phil and Everett. Did he with David and Tico? Not sure.

My brother and nephews were at the gig (further back in the GC and on Shanks’ side) and said they had to move around to find a better acoustic spot. Heard a few people say the sound was a bit messy at times. It was mostly great were we stood on Phil’s side to be fair.

The stage was great, nothing extravagant but decent. Obviously the closer you are the less you take in but the huge screens offer plenty of detail if your line of sight is blocked by arms and phones.

Overall then, a much better show than I was expecting. I wish I had booked tickets for Wembley now. Hopefully they get a better setlist. Enjoy.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk