5/12/02 Review
Click Here For the Setlist
Dave Matthews Band's still got it
Emmanuel Lozano/The Arizona Republic
Dave Matthews performs at Cricket Pavillion Sunday night.
Theresa Cano
azcentral.com
May 13, 2002 02:06:10
As any Dave Matthews Band fan will tell you, in order to fully appreciate the group you have to see them perform live. This point was driven home with authority on Sunday night as the group delighted more than 20,000 rabid fans at Cricket Pavilion.
When Matthews and company merely walked on stage, they drew a mind-numbing roar from the crowd. This was a good indicator that the endlessly touring quintet would back up its reputation as being one of the best live bands on the road today. Opening with the bass-heavy 'Don't Drink the Water,' the black-clad singer meshed his baritone vocals with the tight as a stitch band with the greatest of ease.
The stage was bare except for a large screen that showed close-ups of the band throughout the show, but what really made the show explode was the dynamic lightning that often frantically pulsated in time with the band.
An appreciative crowd stayed on their feet for the entirety of the 2 hour and 15 minute show. Often spilling into the aisles as they danced to the funky and complex beats that Matthews and crew deliver in their songs. Everyday's radio friendly 'The Space Between' drew a mass sing-along as did 'What Would You Say.'
For the most part the band steered clear of the long-winded jam sessions that used to fill their shows. But that's not to say that each of the band members didn't have their time in the spotlight. Drummer Carter Beauford was the driving force behind more than a few numbers, especially on Before These Crowded Streets' 'Rapunzel.'
The fivesome was especially in sync with each other on 'Tripping Billies,' with Matthews and violinist Boyd Tinsley feverishly jamming until the song's end.
The band played a good-sized handful of tunes from the upcoming release Busted Stuff, though to a majority of the DMB faithful, the songs were not new thanks to the much bootlegged 'Lillywhite Sessions' where nearly all of the Busted Stuff tracks originate. 'Where Are You Going,' 'Big Eyed Fish' and 'Bartender' drew a teeming approval from fans.
The charming Matthews, said little other than an occasional 'thanks,' but he said plenty with his facial expressions and quirky dance moves.
DMB's appeal lies in their onstage charisma and rapport with one another. They seamlessly weave into each other musically, thanks in no small part to their years on the road with each other.
Here's hoping that they will continue being the road warriors that they have been for over a decade for many years to come.
SETLIST:
Don’t Drink the Water
Rhyme & Reason
Grey Street
The Space Between
Recently
You Never Know
Big Eyed Fish
Bartender
Tripping Billies
Fool To Think
I Did It
Where Are You Going
The Stone
Pantala Naga Pampa
Rapunzel
Dont Burn The Pig
What Would You Say
Encore:
Beauty of Wynona
Ants Marching
* * * Thanks to the Arizona Newspaper for the review.
Email: TJ4141@aol.com
