Night Seven: Amsterdam
David and his band will perform their second gig in Amsterdam tonight.
Will you be there, too? If so, do let us know how excited you’re feeling as the minutes… tick… slowly… by. We want to know what you’re hoping to hear and, of course, we want to know if you had a good time.
As always, if you don’t want to know the setlist, don’t read on.
Today’s photo is of David during the soundcheck in Dortmund.
Many more of Polly’s photographs to come, not only here, but also at the fantastic Gallery. Be sure to have a look at them, if you haven’t already done so.
Have a great time tonight, everyone.
A great live performacne yesterday in the HMH.
David thansk for the great show, it was fantastic specialy the song echoes.
I see forward to the dvd of the tour…
Oh, please keep Wearing The Inside Out in the set. Comming Back To Life is also a great song, but we have all heard it live numerous times.
Adding somngs is ok, but don’t remove any :-)
Caption:
“Well Richard, they always said we were a ‘faceless’ band! “
Caption comp:
“I’ve got odd socks on? Well I’m not looking down ‘cos they’ll think I’m looking for the words!”
We made some nice pictures during the first numbers of the gig. You can check one out on our site. Click my name.
About rudders comment on some people attending more than one concert, being unfair to others without tickets. I myself are, I’m sorry to say, not going to attend any of the concerts. But if I had a type of job that I could take time off from whenever I wanted to, I would attend every single Gilmour concert there was. And I would rather see the same die-hard fans night after night filling up the venues, then some plonker thinking that “another brick in the wall part two” is the only thing PF and Mr.Gilmour has produced.
And of course big thanks to Mr.Gilmour for a brilliant new album :-)
Pour Antoine, Ikkar, and so on,
[sill four days from the Olympia show, Time flies...]
Just to say I totally agree with you ( still five days…)
C’est terrible d’ avoir maintenant ce sentiment d’impuissance, c’était génial, aucun superlatif n’est suffisant mais sur le moment, on est transporté, on savoure, mais on ne se rend absolument pas compte que le lendemain ou le surlendemain et peut-être pour toujours (NON !!!)c’est fini ! J’ai beaucoup de mal avec ça depuis jeudi, et c’est d’autant plus difficile que l’on continue à imaginer les gens qui , eux, assistent actuellement aux concerts de David !
Ceci dit, on a eu beaucoup de chance d’assister aux concerts de Paris, je le sais…
Ohhh, and I ‘m very proud of the audience in Paris, the crowd was quiet, very respectful during the songs, nobody shouted, nobody asked for “Pink Floyd”, no too much cameras , a “total respect”,and then standing ovations…
I’ll never forget these nights…….
Michèle.
Don’t you think that Guy (Pratt) has great moves while he’s playing the bass??!!
Normally the bass-player is the one that doesn’t move during the entire show. In this case it’s the bass-player who is humping around while the others hardly move!!
Keep moving around like this Guy, you are a fantastic bass-player!!
I was there on the 20th at the HMH show!
It was a fantastic, very relaxed (and on the slower new songs also relaxing) show.
Sound was perfect!
Pity all the camera`s were flashing like stroboscopes, and a few idiots who were recording the show on their mobile phones, i gets to you at times, but again it was a fantastic night.
David had a little crackle in his voice during a Division Bell track (but hey, singing with that high voice and over all the loud music, i think it`s allowed, and no problem at all).
I also hope that David releases a live dvd of this tour, i think it`ll sell well.
David (and the band), you`ve still got it, so don`t lose it!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO ALL!!!
PS: Echoes was one of the high points of the show, WOW!
I can go on for days about this show, but i won`t, you all get the idea, i think.
Guy (with that other sexy voice) wrote: “I could happily get up every morning and play the space jam bit from Echoes all day every day for the rest of my life”
And I could happily listen to it. That works out well, doesn’t it? I go to bed at night listening to Echoes. Well, I cheat and program A Pillow of Winds on “repeat” for 30 minutes first and THEN it’s Echoes time.
xo
Deborah
A question of identity
Being in a rock band is certainly a great adventure. You have many commun points. Each member put his touch to the collective work. Then you reach the succes or not. But sometimes, you need to have a bit a fresh air with the solos albums.
Because in the end, it’s like being locked in a space capsule Soyuz with two guys you just can’t bear. You repeat again and again. So you need to open the door before stuffing
So you decide to work in solo. Few singers who came from a band succed because they had their band behind themselves. I can see Phil Collins, Sting, Peter Gabriel (I probably forget some others) and now David Gilmour. But all of theses singers have one point in commun : outside of there own band, they always made something different on their solo albums than on their group albums which is not the case for some other singers.
In my view, About Face was the introduction of On an Island (some of the arrangements on Let’s get metaphysical). And even if there are some typical floydian pieces, On an Island really reflects David Gilmour musical identity. And maybe his own identity. (See the lyrics). In fact you have to listen carefully the songs. You’re invitated to see a little bit of his Island. An invitation to a journey.
Hello Dear F.Ed, another short article. May you appreciate it. I wish it would have been longer.
Yesterday was great. Great show, great setlist.
Because of the changes in the setlist, I was afraid Echoes would not be played.
When I read the review of the first concert and they said Echoes was played, I got goosebumbs. When I continued reading and read a second review (of the same concert) I got goosebumbs again. Seeing and hearing echoes live yesterday was the best, really the best.
But what the h*ll is wrong with people going to concerts? A concert nowadays is quite expensive, so I would assume you take the best out of it. Why is it so important to make pictures with your cellular phones all the time? You do not get involved with the music or light show, you only get involved with making pictures of very bad quality. But at least you can show your friends that you’ve been there. What a shame. But ‘nough said ..
Heineken Music Hall is not really a “theater” and this concert was awsome. So I am really looking forward to may, when I will be visiting the Royal Albert Hall. Echoes once again? Hope so ..
(oops .. getting the goosebumbs again ..)
Hi Dick,
[I remember Richard in 1966 (De Doelen in Rotterdam) with a kind of joystick on top of his instruments used for quadraphonic sounds. No joystick last night]
That’s indeed for the quadraphonic sound. It’s called the Azimuth Coordinator.
well…..still speechless after the stunning show yesterday evening!!!! being on the second row was an absolute pleasure, although mr.Gilmour didnt toss me a guitar pick, hahaha!
Still, the highlight of the show was him playing “coming back to life”, as this song is very dear and special to me. Ofcourse ive read the posts concerning the setlist and advises on what to play and what not to play, my only comment is: count your blessings to be able to watch such a breathtaking show!!!! He cant please everybody!!
Thank you again, David, for memory thatll last a lifetime…….you made some beautiful memories!!!
emiel
None contributery of Coventry here. Dont think I have much to say at the moment while all our european friends send in their set lists and thoughts. However, I did notice that Steven Wilson of the Porcupine Tree is currently listening to On An Island. Also, nobody seems to mention the music that David wrote for La Carrera Panamericana. Brilliant stuff on that film. Anybody else agree.
Pete – Coventry
wearing the inside out, coming back to life- both great songs! I’m glad David is mixing things up a little. There are some songs I absolutely want to hear (OAI, Echos) but other than that I was to have some sense of “unknowing”. Know what I mean? Play what you want David! I’m just anxious to see OAI (the whole album) and Echos live!
As for those taking pictures through out the shows… PLEASE refrain from doing this, esp at the April 20th show!!! For goodness sake, they are posting photos on this site- probably better than you can take anyway! Maybe we could form small groups of devoted fans from this site to meet at the shows and then “handle” any offending people (including drunks, alien abductions not withstanding!). J/K Fed ed! But really people- these shows don’t sound like they need your input with the flash to enhance the light show!
Tim
[It was a joke? Oh, I thought it was a great idea. - Features Editor]
à Michèle
Non non, ce n’est pas vraiment un sentiment d’impuissance, puisqu’un concert comme celui-là nous donne une énergie…, nous rend … immortels! (enfin, presque…)
Ikkar, with love.
“Well, I cheat and program A Pillow of Winds on “repeat” for 30 minutes first and THEN it’s Echoes time.”
hehehe…Deborah – my PF relaxation/sleep technique is to use SOYCD – the first few minutes of Rick’s keyboards always take my worries away, and by the time David’s lead guitar comes in for those four notes at 3:54 I’m off to the land of nod
N
p.s. Those four notes I have always considered a Floydian “call to arms”, so to speak…anyone else feel the same? They’re four of the largest notes I think I’ve ever heard played because of their context. I love ‘em lots
The first time I saw the Floyd at the age of 17, was in 1971, when they were doing a free concert in “Het Amsterdamse Bos” in Holland, preceded by America (who were in the Top 40 with ‘A horse with no name”) and Humble Pie. The second time was in 1994 in Rotterdam with their Pulse tour. In 2003 I saw Roger Waters twice (Antwerp, Rotterdam) en last Sunday I saw David in Amsterdam. Extremely good concert and I was pleasantly surprised to hear and see ‘Echoes’, but also “Wot’s …eh…the deal” from Obscured By Clouds, which I’ve always found a very underrated album. And the best thing about this tour is the fact that my hero RICHARD WRIGHT is there too. As it should be! David, your album is doin’ so great everywhere, congratulations! Ron Bisschop, Holland.
Oh yes, and one last thing – to those of us posting concert reviews….firstly, thanks very much…but secondly, I don’t know how everyone else feels about this but I really really don’t need to hear about the bits where something didn’t go to plan. Technical mishaps are one thing, but to scrutinise the band and their individual performances with a microscope is really unfair, and to be honest, pretty cold (for any real fan).
David has chosen to play small, high quality, intimate venues – and I applaud his taste. The downside is that this intimacy is very much a trust thing….David and all the musicians on stage are opening themselves up for you. Don’t abuse that trust by navel gazing or overanalysing. If it was a stadium gig you’d be in row 99 hearing the performance through terrible acoustics and have no chance to see or hear the things you do at a smaller gig.
And, for someone who has just celebrated their 60th birthday, David’s voice goes from strength to strength in by book where others are getting worse. If you want perfection, listen to the CD. If you want reality and feeling, enjoy the show
Had to get it off my chest…it’s been building for a few days now. Hope this is taken in the good faith that it is intended…
Best,
N
[Well said, mate. Someone will probably have a go at you for saying it, but hey! - Features Editor]
Hi Guy,
I know you probably wont answer these questions but I have one nonetheless.
I was at the second Amsterdam show last night (you guys were great!) and I noticed that the audience was quite calm, even reserved you might say. I though that a bit strange, but in a way quite liked it.
So the question, how do you guys experience this? As a lack of interest? Or more as a silent appreciation of good music (which it was in my opinion)? What do you guys prefer? A silent listening audience or the ‘blind’ and loud adoration?
Hope you have a great time on the coming nights!
Best,
Clemens
[Guy is kind enough to post. Please don't scare him away with questions! He can only answer for himself, after all. He can't tell you what the other band members feel. It won't make any difference, anyway! If people want to be loud, they'll be loud. If Guy says that the entire band and crew want the noisy ones to be quiet, the noisy ones will still be loud because they want to be. - Features Editor]
Guy is right about using flash photography at concerts. (Hi, Guy!) If your seat is very close to the stage [lucky bastard(s)], you don’t need the flash.
If you’re farther back from the stage, the light from your flash won’t reach your subject. Most flashes throw light a few feet so all you’re doing is illuminating the backs of the heads of the people in front of you. Not good. Turn the flash feature off. Goofballs!
[No, just don't take a camera at all. You still annoy people by standing up, getting in the way of others, clicking away... Flash or no flash, we don't want any cameras. - Features Editor]
Fantastic show, really liked Coming Back to Life, as well as Fat Old Sun which were pleasant surprises for me (thinking of the setlist of the 19th). For me, Echoes was the highpoint, followed of cource by Comfortably Numb (best solo ever!) At both halfs, all time gets lost. Seems to take forever and too short at the same time.
What a fantastic show! Never thought I would see this kind of music live. I’m only 20 years old and dreamed of this concert! Thank you David and Richard!
Can anyone tell me the order of the On An Island songs of the first part? Thank you!
Thank you again. Hope that Roger Waters in Berlin will be the same!
Guy,
It is very cool you take the time to post here. See you in NYC April 5. I have no setlist requests. Whatever the band wants to play is what I want to here. Cant wait.
Grover
Reply to Guy….
I was going to stay away but someone saying they find my voice sexy…Well….
Was that a girl or a bloke who said that?
By the way, we’re loving these shows as much as you. (Well I am…) I could happily get up every morning and play the space jam bit from Echoes all day every day for the rest of my life.
Guy, I could also listen to Echoes every day for the rest of my life.
Regards
Pete – Coventry
I said it a month ago and i’ll say it again.
“Coming back to life” must be played in Chicago on the 13th! It must Dave!
time..sure….is…..moving….sloooooow. These set-lists are awesome!
Hi David,
Please…do not drop Breathe in the Breathe-Time-Breathe reprise mini suite!!
I need to hear the Heartbeat-intro of Speak to me!!
See you in Milano
The simple answer to Clemens question is be quiet while David and the band are playing and show your appreciation at the end of each song!!
LS
[It would be nice, wouldn't it? - Features Editor]
Well said Nickster.
People need to realise that concerts nowadays, in terms of things going wrong and not going to plan, run incredibly well. Just think back to some of the concerts during the 70′s. By and large you didnt give a shit. You just enjoyed the atmosphere.
Pete – Coventry
hello people and editor! i’ll be at the auditorium in rome on 26th. I was wondering if will be possible to have some beautiful pictures of the gig provided some way. I’m well aware of the copyrights so I guess it won’t be possible to take pictures on one’s own,isn’t it? but the night will be something kinda unforgettable, i’m counting hours…
[There are people taking photographs for us (not least, Polly!) so they will be on the site soon. We would kindly ask once again that no fans take cameras to the shows because they are a source of irritation to band and audience alike. Have a great time, Luca. Please tell us all about it when you get home. - Features Editor]
Pete – Coventry
La Carrera Panamericana! Amazon it is then for the VHS tape….
Here’s a review from Amazon…
Slap this video on when you’re hangin’ out, mellowing. It’s a great flick for Floyd fans ’cause it shows a different side of the guys. We all know how hard it is to access some really good behind-the-scenes Floyd footage. Have a Floyd Fest — Watch as many Floyd flicks you can in one sweet afternoon. Only invite your coolest of friends. Relax. —Peace!
Just seen Nickstar’s comments. I couldn’t agree more. I’ve wanted to say that for a long long time!! That was partly what I meant in my earlier email regarding “disrespectful and negative comments”!!
LS
[Guy is kind enough to post. Please don't scare him away with questions! He can only answer for himself, after all. He can't tell you what the other band members feel. It won't make any difference, anyway! If people want to be loud, they'll be loud. If Guy says that the entire band and crew want the noisy ones to be quiet, the noisy ones will still be loud because they want to be. - Features Editor]
I did not mean to scare Guy away at all. Like I said before, I think it is really cool of him to post! Anyway it was just a question that was on my mind during the show. Whether it is quiet or loud of course depends on the public. But whether the bands opinion on that will have any effect was not the question. I was wondering how the band (or only Guy if he did not know the opinion of the others on this, which I doubt) like their audience best.
For instance, I remember David saying in interviews that they liked their ’60/early ’70 audience because they would really listen to the music and not come for the show only.
If you are not going to post this for the obvious reason (namely that Guy will get hundreds of questions) then I would appreciate it if you did not use the contents of my posts for a different goal.
Anyway, I think you are doing a great job!
Best,
Clemens
[I'm sorry, Clemens. Forgive me. I don't think your question would scare Guy away and, if others send in silly questions, they can be deleted easily enough. My point, albeit a badly made one, was that regardless of Guy's opinion, sadly we have many fans here who would not bother to consider his point of view even if he did take the time to share it with us. Judging by some of the repeat requests for just about everything under the sun, I think David could post a daily plea for certain fans to be more reasonable and it would be ignored! No hard feelings. You are quite right and I'm happy to admit that and to apologise to you profusely. - Features Editor]
Caption Comp:
When I was a child I had a fever
My hands felt just like two balloons
Now I’ve got that feeling once again
I can’t explain, you would not understand
This is not how I am
I have become a light shade of plum
It’s me again. Just posted a rather long story on Sunday’s blog about the show.
Guy (I should really call you Mr. Pratt) : you played excellent and you obviously enjoyed playing every second of the gig. The stand-up bass (is it called that way?) adds a very distinct and beautiful sound.
Sorry to hear you felt ill. I struggled sunday with some illness to witness a show, but to perform in top notch at such a show is incredible. Hat off to you.
You wrote : “By the way, we’re loving these shows as much as you.(Well I am…) I could happily get up every morning and play the space jam bit from Echoes all day every day for the rest of my life”
Well, we don’t mind ;-) We won’t even mind if you played the whole Echoes or even the whole show. Didn’t you think sunday’s audience was more polite/quiet ? I could hear every sound during echoes, even during the outro ‘we’ were in awe.
You guys really live to rock’n'roll life judging from the time you posted : 03:18 AM. Even I had gone home and to bed ;-)
P.S. Is it true there was some afterparty monday ? We were quickly -but politely- removed from the venue (also because the stage had to be torn down and loaded into the trucks).
Anyway, for all bandmembers : enjoy the rest of the shows. If you have a great time, I know we have too !!!
And the reference sunday ‘sorry Colin’ from David was that about not playing (and recording) Fat Old Sun but playing Dominoes instead (with a nice solo spot for Mr. El Magnifico)
About your ‘tour’ shirt: a nice reference to the old days and you might change it to “Didn’t we do well ?” (and on the back “Yes we did!”) as far as I’m concerned. You’ve deserved it ;-)
Sincerely,
Piet
Oops, forgot a few things. First : Wasn’t it during Wot’s the deal that they sung in five-part harmony ? Sounded incredible.
Nice to see and hear Steve singing too, while playing drums. Must have been him singing those very low parts, as only he and Jon were singing along with David.
A question for all : HOW can anybody not only prepare for Echoes and all other beauties, but HOW do you prepare for the electric mind-splitting solo in Fat Old Sun ? This was really powerful.
Well, I’ll stop ranting ;-)
Piet
[Tim Taylor: Maybe we could form small groups of devoted fans from this site to meet at the shows and then "handle" any offending people (including drunks, alien abductions not withstanding!) ]
I would appreciate that Tim. Yesterday I was anxious to do so, but on the other hand, if I’m going to bother with these people, I cannot experience the show myself.
Furthermore, others can get irritated from my actions too, because the photographers will not stop making pictures without any arguments.
But I think this is also a problem of the Heineken MH. Only in the second part the security peronnel stopped people from making fotos.
Still looking forward to Royal AH … *dreaming away*
[Bas : Don't you think that Guy (Pratt) has great moves while he's playing the bass??!!]
He was having a good time, that’s for sure.
I can’t wait anymore for David’s invasion in Italy. I will travel 2000 Kms ,(I’m coming from Greece), just to spend the most magical night of my life in Rome. I hope that he won’t change the playlist (Echoes is my favorite since I was 15 years old) and he will shine on. They say that the Italian audience is one of the most difficult one , but if they like something they turn to be very excited. I’m sure that David Knows that and he will do his best. ……
P.S I wish the Band would have Female Backing Vocals cause I love Great Gig..
DIMITRIS
Hey Bloggers read the review from the Paris show in the press area on the home page. Sounds like this reviewer actually gets “it”! David finally getting some long overdue positive press!
Dave from Ft. Wayne, In.
Hello,
I was standing outside of the both shows with my DSOTM themed Can you Spare a ticket sign, hoping I can get somebody who has an unwanted or complimentary (media, for example) ticket they can kick down. I’m squatting here in Amsterdam, and don’t have a work permit, so a 55 Euro ticket, let alone scalper prices, was way out of my range. But I really could not miss the chance of seeing both David and Richard play, so I decided to give it a shot.On Sunday, I left without a ticket, but on Monday, a charming local couple traded me their extra ticket for 10 Euros and I got to sit with them in the 6th row, and speculate about the setlist, but it surpassed even my wildest expectations. It was hands down one of the best shows I have ever seen, definitely worth every minute freezing outside. A day latter my head is still spinning. Enough was written about the setlist, which moved with grace from delicate beauty to crushing heaviness. Thank you folks for the gift of the ticket, and thank you David and Richard for an unforgettable show!
Hrvoje
I was at both Amsterdam shows, I managed to get a ticket for the second night at the last minute, I couldn’t resist.
Dave is the daddy of them all! I was totally awe struck. I could go on for hours about every little detail, but the highlights were Dave’s acoustic guitar outro on High Hopes, it was like he was cradling a newborn child, the care he was taking! Also the keyboards on Echoes took me back to Pompeii, the Album version of Echoes is good, but last night’s performance of Echoes blew me away. Thank you David, Richard and the rest of the band, see you in Manchester in May (won’t ever be quite the same as seeing you in AMSTERDAM!;-) )
Hey GuyP…you are dead on about the flash cameras…those things really annoy the hell out of me…especially at aquariums…people get upclose to the glass and flash away….stupid people.
P.S. plz keep posting here…that is a cool thing…I wish the other bandmen did also.
Why he uses only blue shirts anda black T ?
Sorry if this has been asked before, but I’m wondering why no songs from David’s first album and About Face have been included in the set lists. There’s some really great tunes on both of those.
hey,
well said nickster!!!
It’s great to see the changes in the setlist. Keep up the good work.
To Aaron: I believe that David does not like to be called Dave. So if you really want ‘Coming back to life’ to be on the set-list when you are at the concert, make at least sure you refer to this great musician/person using the correct name.
But anyway, everything he and the other guys play is superb!! I know, I was there yesterday!!
Fet Ed… dealing with cameras and drunks… sorta a joke, but to strong arm some idiot with a camera and a beer means I have to stop watching the show to do it… don’t think I wanna do that. Besides… dealing with them would be a big distraction to everyone else… lets just hope that the fans get it in their heads that this is unacceptable. Of course we could all hope that the Heart of Gold would swoop by and via the Improbability Drive wisk them all away to some quiet location where they can at least obtain a Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster (I mean if they are gonna miss the rest of the show they’ll probably need one to calm down!). Wait… I wouldn’t mind having a Pan Galactic gargle Blaster at the show!!! Will they be available at the bar???
Tim
[I'm sure it can be arranged. I was thinking of getting a sniper with tranquilliser darts to be positioned high behind the band, looking out at the audience. He could shoot anyone he considers rowdy. People with cameras, people videoing the show on their mobile phones, people singing too loudly, people who fidget too much… What do you think? They'd just be knocked out until the end of the show, of course. Then we can all take turns to slap their faces to bring them round. It would be good therapy. - Features Editor]
Mr. Gilmour,
I’m begging you. Please play Coming Back To Life in Toronto. I’m 20, been a HUGE fan since i was 12 years old in gradeschool…..its my favourite song, i’ll do anything!
see you on the 9th!
Cheers
PS – good luck on the rest o the tour
Response to Peter Coventry, La Carrera has great tunes, especially Pan Am Shuffle. I can see David swaying to and fro in my mind on that one. Thanks Guy, since you are in Italy, eat lots of garlic, that’ll get rid of that bug and tapeworm too. LOL.
fair play, ed. all the nagging requests from the greedy bunch getting to you? good on you too, clemens. it’s comforting to see sensible, reasonable, intelligent people here who don’t throw their toys out of the pram when they don’t get their way. thank god, because the blog needs people like you! cheers to you both.
[Thanks, Victor. Is it that obvious? - Features Editor]
I just love this blog! It’s so fun getting to “know” other Gilmour fanatics, and I love Features Ed comments!
So…..how many of you are doing this at work?? Count me in….
Is anyone aware of a pub in Toronto where everyone is getting together before the April 9 show?
Good day, all,
Nickster is right on the money. I am on a stage all the time, albeit for + – 200 people, but it’s a totally different situation than in a studio or rehearsing, etc. People are human, they are not machines, and they will not be perfect. That’s the beauty of a live show, you get to see and hear the band in real time, mistakes, little miscues and all. It makes it a more human experience. I am in total agreement to stop the “navel gazing”. They are not going to be perfect, it’s foolish to expect that. Many times, out of those imperfect little stumbles is where some great things are born.
I really enjoy reading people’s posts of the concerts, I can imagine what it would be like, even with the boobs and their cameras, to be there. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us, I appreciate it.
Caption Comp-
DG- “These ‘X’s? They are the number of unwanted papparazzi wanna-be’s my driver has hit so far on the way out of the concert halls.”
p.s. Guy, I also could play the space jam in Echoes all day. I use it as a warm-up piece sometimes, it’s just fun. Glad you are enjoying it so much. thanks for sharing.
Have a good day, all.
Mike
Mr Gilmour…..Please, please come to Montreal.
Sobbing…..
Maria. xox
Sorry FEd, and anyone else i offended by mentioning an RoIo on this blog, from David’s official site. It was not commentary on ‘bootlegging’ or ‘selling for profit’ or anything else illegal. Just a comment on the fact that something exists. based on the intensity of this group of fans, i am sure there are a few people who know about these things anyways…
On a different note, in regards to rude-ass drunks at shows…be warned about the Oakland Paramount if you didn’t know already…drinking is limited to bar area only, so you cannot have a drink (legally) in your seats. The lines are usually outrageously long and waiting for a drink, and having to drink it up…can cause you to a) miss start of show or b) walk in late, disturbing others….this might be an obstacle for an anxious drunk…dont do it.
peace
biGal
[No offence caused whatsoever, mate. Of course, you're right. Most people know of them and have them in their collection. - Features Editor]
Hi FetEd
I don’t know if I can put up with anymore of this sycophantic (yes I know I can’t spell) stuff any longer. We havn’t had a good debate on here for some time. I want David to invite Nick Mason and Roger Waters onto his show as guests; I want him to play on the set list “Set The Controls For The Heart Of The Sun”!; I want to know where the name Pink Floyd came from?!!!!; and I want David to put on a private show just for me round at my pad. Not much to ask I don’t think. ;-)
Actually, that could have been another caption to the photo you had such huge enjoyment over, something about a “robot”?
“David, someone has just asked if you can tell them where the name Pink Floyd came from?”. Exit stage left rather smartly!
Now I’ve stirred the pot a bit, I have to say that I am enjoying reading how everyone is enjoying the shows, makes the wait until the Albert Hall all the more enticing.
Thanks to Guy Pratt for posting on the blog. Now there is something I did not know or appreciate. I did not appreciate that the flash on a camera at that distance has no effect, or that it is bloody annoying to the band memebers ‘cos we only see it from our perspective. Damned lucky none of the band suffers from epilepsy isn’t it. Wouldnt we feel ass****s if the main people we had come to see and revere were made ill as a result of our passion to get a picture? Tsk tsk. Nice one Guy and thanks FetEd…. I hope you realise by now that I was just being a little Devil with a hint of Advocate earlier on!
Keep it up mate.
Regards
Julian
[Little Devils are very welcome. We all need a bit of humour. - Features Editor]
Dear Feat Ed,
Tomorrow is 2 week anniversary of OAI release, can we see some sales figures? You know I am on board for the 10mm!
PS: Join us for NY shows, drinks on me.
Best Regards,
Stephen
NY, USA
[Hi Stephen. Sales figures are the record company's interest, so I'm afraid I can't help. Sorry! - Features Editor]
Dear Mr. Gilmour (and bandmates),
I am looking forward to the show on Easter Sunday in Oakland. It would make me very happy if you played Coming Back to Life. I am bringing my wife to the show and it will be her first time seing you live. I enjoy OAI as much as any previous work you have done solo or with PF. My father is a musician and I appreciate all you create with your patience and heartfelt harmony. Please consider continuing as long as possible as it is truly your calling to write and play such wonderful music for the people of this earth. Thanks for all your creations and time spent entertaining us!!!
I wish you happiness and health on tour…God Speed.
I can’t believe how many posts on here are asking for set list changes, adds, or more great gig, etc.
I never thought I’d have the chance to see David, Richard, Guy, and the rest of the crew in concert at all. I thought the chance had passed me. By some fortune, I scored tickets to April 20th!
Of course, we all have favorites, and a dream set list, but the whining is out of control. I’m stoked that I’m going to be able to hear the FULL OAI, add to that several classics, it just doesn’t get any better. I am just super thankful that I’ll get a chance to see these legends in concert at all. Beggers can’t be choosers. So FEd, please pass this message on to the boys, play whatever you enjoy playing, and I’ll certainly enjoy watching and listening!
[Cheers for that, Patrick. - Features Editor]
Hi Fed – been reading Nickster’s comments (relating to people posting negative comments, over-analyzing etc) and your one-line endorsement.
Speaking as someone who was not at ‘last night’s concert’, I would like to know how it went, to get some idea of what happened and how it sounded, how the band are playing, how well the voices come across, things that went well, things that went not-so-well, amusing asides etc etc. As Nickster says, there is a difference between concert and studio – a concert is a one-off event and there will be differences between each one. It’s what makes it unique. Some will come across better than others. Nothing wrong with ‘constructive criticism’ and I would be interested to read about it. Otherwise all we are left with are the ‘it was the best ever ……’ which get a bit tedious after the first few thousand! Regards ….
PS – you don’t need tranquilizer darts for the undesirables, just put them up against the wall (and add them to In The Flesh).
[Hi Joolz. Constructive criticism is more than welcome and I've found all the reviews to be fair enough, myself. I haven't always agreed with what's been said, but I also want the reviews to be useful. That said, some people are extremely picky to the point of almost taking the you-know-what. That said, it's very easy to misinterpret things, isn't it? All I want is for people to be honest, reasonable and respectful. - Features Editor]
Fet ed… drunks, rowdies and tranquilizer darts… good idea! But bring them around? I’m thinking permanent markers and duct tape for a post concert “wrap-up” party would be a lot of fun!!!
Tim
[Sounds like a plan. - Features Editor]
Hello,
Two days after “our” show in Amsterdam and finally I’m coming back to life…
Think the band, Polly & crew is on the road again, or in the air (?), and left our free minded country. Hope they had a good time too and have a nice break before the shows in Italy will start.
Photographs.
At the gigs there are professional photographers and our dear Polly. So there will be material enough, take your time and surf on the internet be amazed.
During the encores, I was standing before David (2 -3 meters) and if I had taken my camera with me, I had the chance to take some beautiful shots, but no. It’s not my job, my job was; to have a good evening, making fun with my friends, seeing an bunch of wonderful craftsmen who did their best to enjoy us, and they succeeded, they succeeded well ;-)
A band that had the guts to play a song that wasn’t rehearsed! (Coming Back To Life). So if there is a tiny thing going wrong, look through it, remember the good things. And good things were there in large amounts, at least a minute of 160.
So be patient have a good time, relax and enjoy, your show will be a life time experience.
Keep talking and please Smile,
x Nick from the lovely South of the Netherlands
& now I Close my Eyes…
I’m sure it can be arranged. I was thinking of getting a sniper with tranquilliser darts to be positioned high behind the band, looking out at the audience. He could shoot anyone he considers rowdy. People with cameras, people videoing the show on their mobile phones, people singing too loudly, people who fidget too much… What do you think? They’d just be knocked out until the end of the show, of course. Then we can all take turns to slap their faces to bring them round. It would be good therapy. – Features Editor]
I hate to say this FEd, but that might mean most of the audience is “taken out”. ; )
I think the band might panic a little if they suddenly looked out and the whole audience was asleep! David would be shouting, “Quick, go into a fast song – we’re losing them…” or else, more than likely “B*gger it, let’s go down the pub” :-) LOL
Angela
There seems to be quite a few of us getting together at the Hard Rock Cafe on Yonge Street. (There are two HRCs in Toronto, one at the Skydome (It will always be the Skydome – I’ll explain) and t’other is up on Yonge Street…the longest street in the world by the way….
If you’re the same Angela you’ll know it’s opposite the Eaton Centre from a previous posting.
I for one will be there on the 9th wearing a black “Fender” t’shirt…
Point of order!
At the top of the blog the Fedmeister said “We want to know what you’re hoping to hear “…
And if you don’t ask you don’t get….
Second half – Semi-acoustic Brain Damage and Eclipse….. :-)
I didn’t think it remotely possible, but my esteem for Mr. Gilmour has been elevated once again. Elsewhere on this vast world wide web, I found an old video clip of our Mr. Gilmour (and possibly Mr. Pratt as well. It was hard to tell) playing bass live for the one, the only…..Spinal Tap. I can thik of no higher accolade than to have been asked to trade chops with the great Derek Smalls on ‘Big Bottom’.
I learn something new every day.
As you were. 3 weeks to Oakland.
peter
Not a complaint about the setlist changes, as I think that’s quite nice to do, particularly when 2 nights are played in the same city…but…I hate to see a song like “Wearing The Inside Out” be replaced, just because it’s Rick’s lead vocal. So to be fair, if David decides to alter the setlist one night and take out that song, he should allow Rick to do “Remember A Day” as a second encore. ;-)
[Gimme a break. How do you know it was replaced just because it's Rick's lead vocal? - Features Editor]
To Big Al re: Oakland and drinking rules.
THANK GOODNESS! I so look forward to being able to sit through a show, and truly listen to the music. I always loved going to Floyd shows, but by and large, at least here in the States, they were a circus. Screaming, talking, fighting, enebriation beyond comprehension….I just never understood what the point was. You pay good money for the rare privalege to see one of the truly great bands perform incredible shows, and you get so ripped that you can’t remember the event. Crazy.
Anyway, I’ll be there with you at the Paramount. I haven’t been there in many, many years. What’s your take on the acoustics there?
peter
I’ve been meaning to ask: Are all nine parts of SOYCD being played, or just the first five?
Dave
[I'm sorry, Clemens. Forgive me. I don't think your question would scare Guy away and, if others send in silly questions, they can be deleted easily enough. My point, albeit a badly made one, was that regardless of Guy's opinion, sadly we have many fans here who would not bother to consider his point of view even if he did take the time to share it with us. Judging by some of the repeat requests for just about everything under the sun, I think David could post a daily plea for certain fans to be more reasonable and it would be ignored! No hard feelings. You are quite right and I'm happy to admit that and to apologise to you profusely. - Features Editor]
No need to apologise mate, we are cool. You are of course right, many people dont see the ‘human’ point of view seen from Davids side. Fans can be quite selfish.
I’m sure you get hundreds of unrealistic requests. I mean, I would like to have a beer with David on his Astoria and discuss the history of that houseboat (or any other topic)but I know that wont happen so I wont ask.
I am however, interested in these guys personal experiences of this tour. I mean, the band makes the music, but the fans create a part of the atmosphere (I would assume that this plays a role in the enjoyment that the band gets from this tour. I think David really deserves a positive experience)…
So David, lead your life the way you think is best. I would even have peace with your retirement from music, since in my opinion you would deserve it fully. I think that any true fan should realise this. However, it will not stop me from thoroughly enjoying the creativity you still wish to share. Also considering the fact you have a young family to look after. I admire that as much as I admire your wish to still tour your new music.
And thanks to you ED, for communicating it to us!
Best,
Clemens
[Bless you, my friend. - Features Editor]
Angela,
“Is anyone aware of a pub in Toronto where everyone is getting together before the April 9 show?”
We’re going to have a few pints at the Hard Rock Cafe just up the street from Massey Hall. They will be playing tons of Floyd and DG tracks.
It will be electric! Counting down the days.. Can you say Echoes!
Nick.
I am looking foward to it. Can you play everything you know? I,d be willing to stay for a few days..
See you at Radio City
Peter
Someone mentioned La Carrera Panamericana. It reminds me of a film I saw years ago on fractals and Mandelbrot narrated by Arthur C. Clark, the sound track was of course by Mr. Gilmour. It was magical to see the movements of fractals while listening to the sound of David’s guitar.
Well… what can i say? I attended the show last night and went there with high hopes! But they were shattered… this was no DG in top-shape…
An utterly boring, uninspired set with lot’s of mistakes on his part, bad sound/mix where the bass was hardly audible and the guitars from DG way too loud.
The songs were nice, as always, but the playing lacked fire or inspiration. I had really hoped for a fantastic show and don’t get me wrong, i’m still a huge fan, but this was truly a show that will not go down in the books on my part.
Granted, Echoes was nice, and so was Fat Old Sun but the performances were extremely sloppy…
too bad… way too bad…
…for the love of God people!! This incessant whining for setlist changes/additions (any colour you like) is out of control! We should be happy that Mr.G is even touring at all (fearless). The begging and pleading (childhoods end) is really getting ridiculous. As I’ve said before, I’d be chuffed (careful with that axe Eugene) if the band came out playing only Yuletide tunes. We should all just chill-ax and thank our lucky stars that we even have tickets (the Nile song) to be in the same room as David, Richard, Phil, Guy, Jon, Dick and Steve. They will play what they want to play (the narrow way) so just deal with it!
…I mean really (several species of small furry animals gathered together in a cave and grooving with a pict
[as if]), have some respect.
Tom
[Damn right (Sorrow), mate. - Features Editor]
Just read the comments on cameras etc. It is amazing the number of people who own cameras and take them to concerts, failing to grasp simple concepts such as: a) the flash has no effect at that distance; b) the flash is irritating to the performers; and c) the flashes and screens are irritating to fellow audience members. Not only that, but with the modern internet age upon us decent shots by people who know what they are doing are almost immediately available (thankyou FEd) and are infinitely better than anything you can take at audience distance with your point-and-shoot or camera phone.
I know you probably wont answer these questions but I have one nonetheless.
So the question, how do you guys experience this? As a lack of interest? Or more as a silent appreciation of good music (which it was in my opinion)? What do you guys prefer? A silent listening audience or the ‘blind’ and loud adoration?
Clemens,
Ideally we like a crowd who are as silent as the grave during songs and then combust in rapt appreciation at the end, perhaps cheering for particular standout moments, wouldn’t anyone?
A couple of weeks ago someone asked about the box on David’s rig (his tuner) and I gave a detailed explanation, now I see the same question and incomplete answers appearing(It’s a Conn Strobotuner), so that is why I don’t answer questions as a rule, it seems to be a waste of time.
Thanks to everyone for their sympathy re my tummy upset, I realise it could be perceived as a cheap shot for the sympathy vote….
It’s a shame noone has responded to my complimenting of Steve DiStanislao, who is doing such a great job especially considering he’s coming into a tight knit group of people who have played together for years and got the vibe immediately.
xx
Guy
Ive been to the 20th March concert in Amsterdam together with a collegue and we have had a hell of a time. After having seen Heather Nova in Groningen the evening before (which was breathtakin) we were wondering what to expect from Davids show in Amsterdam. We weren’t disappointed, it was great. The sound was awesome and David playd two of my favourites (Fat old sun and Echoes). I can remember an interview in a magazine in 1993/1994 that David might play Echoes on the PF tour Division Bell. Disappointed then, but now satisfied to the bone that once in my life I’ve heard it in live from the best guitarplayer of all times. David thx for this marvellous evening. I’(We’)ve enjoyed every minute of it. I hope all of you will enjoy the tour as I did.
Hi Nickster,
your comment;
p.s. Those four notes I have always considered a Floydian “call to arms”, so to speak…anyone else feel the same? They’re four of the largest notes I think I’ve ever heard played because of their context. I love ‘em lots
Could not agree more, the most powerfull, elegant riff made up of just four simple notes!
“Is anyone aware of a pub in Toronto where everyone is getting together before the April 9 show?”
“We’re going to have a few pints at the Hard Rock Cafe just up the street from Massey Hall. They will be playing tons of Floyd and DG tracks.”
Nick thanks for responding….I’ll be the cute woman in my 40′s (if that’s possible) and my husband will be the one with the ponytail..oops..just probably described half of the audience…..see you there!
Hi Everybody
I’ve also been to the HMH show on the 20th, and I had a great time. I think the choice of songs in the second part of the concert was just perfect. To hear Echoes for the first time live (in person) was a great surprise, the crowd really went wild when they heared the “ping” introducing Echoes.
Mr. gilmour and the rest of the band. Thnx for a great night.
cheers, Hans
[Ideally we like a crowd who are as silent as the grave during songs and then combust in rapt appreciation at the end, perhaps cheering for particular standout moments, wouldn't anyone?
A couple of weeks ago someone asked about the box on David's rig (his tuner) and I gave a detailed explanation, now I see the same question and incomplete answers appearing(It's a Conn Strobotuner), so that is why I don't answer questions as a rule, it seems to be a waste of time.
Thanks to everyone for their sympathy re my tummy upset, I realise it could be perceived as a cheap shot for the sympathy vote....
It's a shame noone has responded to my complimenting of Steve DiStanislao, who is doing such a great job especially considering he's coming into a tight knit group of people who have played together for years and got the vibe immediately.]
Thank you Guy. I understand that it would not be practical (you have accumulated far too much fans over the years
at all to answer individual questions.
On mr DiStanislao: he is playing brilliantly! You say you had never rehearsed “Coming Back to Life”? Well hats off to him then! I had the privilige of hearing that live. Since I’m paying tribute anyway I feel that I should mention Dick Parry (although I have great respect for all of you, you cant blaim me for that, Im a fan
. Sometimes I get the impression he is one of Floyds unsung heroes…
Best to you all!
Clemens
Quick reply to Jaco (Roger Waters)
Next time you manage to buy a highly prized David Gilmour ticket, give it to someone else. They’ll enjoy it!
Guy wrote: It’s a shame noone has responded to my complimenting of Steve DiStanislao
Great job, Steve! Putting up with Guy especially. ;-)
Please enter into our blog web of doom. Come talk to us, she said enticingly…tell us how late in the morning David sleeps after a show and just how well you’re keeping it in the road touring with these blokes.
xo
Deborah
Hey there Angie, the Hard Rock Cafe on Yonge street is right around the corner Massey Hall. According to Rudders that’s the spot and for once he may be right.
George
“It’s a shame noone has responded to my complimenting of Steve DiStanislao, who is doing such a great job especially considering he’s coming into a tight knit group of people who have played together for years and got the vibe immediately.
xx
Guy
Posted by: Guy Pratt at March 21, 2006 08:58 PM”
Fair enough, mate
(as a Briton might say) Personally, I’ve had way more to say about the shows than I’ve had the chance to share here. But since you sort of asked Guy, here goes:
Steve DiStanislao’s drumming really feels integral to he music at hand. A deft, yet strong touch is needed, as is a close relationship with one’s tom-tom’s and cymbals, to get at the Floyd sound, imo. Steve really drums with flying colors. Again, Echoes is the example where all the band members shine. Steve’s drumming in Echoes is remarkable, with all the tom fills and the cymbals crashing coming through in waves. Hadn’t really thought of it from Guy’s pov, but Steve’s done a hell of a job for being “the new guy”
Regardless, his drumming is certainly not going unnoticed! The band really sounds tight, muscular, and agile when whipping through the composed, funky, and psychadelic sections of Echoes (to use it again as an illustration). You can’t do that with a weak rythm section, no matter how good your guitarist and keyboard player are!
Shine on!
Evening Guy,
It’s great that Steve has found the band’s groove, how did you describe it, “in the pocket”, I believe? I would imagine that when the drummer and bassist find that right partnership, the possibilities for the songs to evolve organically is all the easier, where conversely a drummer who doesn’t quite ‘get it’ could bring the whole enchilada tumbling down.
I can’t comment on Steve yet because I haven’t yet heard him, or the rest of you yet, but I do think it’s great news that the ‘pulse/groove’ section of the band is so in synch this early in the tour. That bodes very well for your Stateside swing.
A somewhat cheesy question for Guy, if he’s inclined. Essentially, “what’s on your I-Pod?” I’m always curious to know what turns musicians on, especially when they’re on tour. I can imagine wanting to listen to other music rather than what I was playing every night. Just curious.
Regards,
peter
No matter what you say, you have to admit that the setlist is pretty sweet. DOGS would obviously push things over the top. Only problem with that is that if David started playing DOGS then I would probally sh*t my pants. Enjoy.
CH
To all those able to attend the live shows: you lucky dogs! I was able to listen to some recordings of one of the shows (I think it was via the BBC website). The sound (even though web-based) and performance was what one would expect from David and crew. I’m hoping there will be a DVD release for this tour!
Aaah, the pic just proves that DG is gorgeous in any color.
I walked around the block with my son tonight and due to my paralysis, I walk very slowly and a bit gimpy. My son told me, ‘mommy you are walking better but you still kinda walk like Frankenstein.” So I think I’ll change my sign off name to Elizabeth, aka Frankenstein.
See you in Chicago on 4-13.
Love,
Elizabeth aka Frankenstein
I’ve never been to a Floyd/Gilmour concert, but I’m from Stratford, Ontario and have attended many a play at the Festival there. The absolute highest compliment an audience can give a performance is silence. Silence, in its purest form is mesmerizing, there is a breathless connection between the performer and the wrapt attention of the audience. If you truly respect the music, give the silence.
I saw both shows in Amsterdam, and all I can say is Roger is definately Pink. ON A ISLAND SLEEPING. I never saw so many people yawning during the first set, and replacing Breathe for Coming Back To Life the second night was horrendous. You don’t replace classic Pinik FLoyd with a Fake Floyd song.
[Sorry you didn't enjoy it, Chris. Perhaps some might say "Enjoy Roger's fake 'Dark Side Of The Moon' instead if you're going to see him on tour this year." Not me, obviously. I'm just guessing what they might say. - Features Editor]
Well, it’s me again. Still trying to gather what I’ve witnessed. Sorry to read Jaco didn’t have a great time.
Guy, I wish to apoligize. I was at the far end monday (you may have read my long posts about sunday and monday, or not) and took some pictures. I had to use the flash sometimes, because my camera otherwise would take too long and the image wouldn’t be still. Reading that even the distant cameras distract the band I will refrain from photographing ever again. I must say it even distracted me from fully enjoying the show. I didn’t realize that until I got home. Lesson learnt.
I forgot to mention I enjoying seeing you jumping left and right and I did complement Steve on singing-while-drumming, but forgot to make a big complement for his drumming those nights. Esp. on echoes I enjoyed it. Powerful when needed, subtle when required. BTW is that how David found Steve ? Through Crosby & Nash, who sang on On an Island ? Being able to fit in a tight knit group only shows craftsmanship. And maybe a bit of humour (with ou, for those in the states ;-) from your side ?
About “not answering questions as a rule”. I think we all thoroughly enjoy that you even take the time to read and post. We cannot and may not expect from you to answer all our questions, like we cannot expect David to play everything we request. I would never have imagined hearing Echoes live from David and Rick (same goes for the rapturour version of Fat Old Sun) so didn’t ask and I got more than ever imagined. Never thought Wot’s … Uh The Deal (beautifully played and sung by the whole band) would be part of a setlist. It was a pity Waering The Inside Out wasn’t played the second night (I very much enjoyed it the first HMH-day), but Coming back To Life was well played and apparently much requested in the states ;-)
The first set may have been ‘tame’ for some, but I enjoyed the flow of that set (and the “silence in the audience”) and the subtleties I hadn’t realized before. Not only in the playing, but also very much in David’s voice. It takes a lot of guts to even try to perform the whole album, but I think (and hope) you all have a blast performing it.
One thing I really hope is that there will be a DVD of the whole concert. Seeing the visuals with On an Island helps understand the songs better. I don’t know if the flashing lights in Echoes can be properly handled by my TV though ;-)
And the ‘spanish guitar’ (that’s how it sounded to me) ending of High Hopes was brilliant and fragile.
As said before : Enjoy the rest of the tour and keep space jamming … BTW I had a great laugh reading your own site about how you auditioned in from of David !
Sincerely,
Piet
Well, what more to add? I attended the show on monday with the flu. In the afternoon I thought I wasn’t going to make it, but thanks to some pills and stuff I did after all. No I am in my bed, coughing, with high fever and a headache. But I am feeling great, because I saw and heard the best concert ever. Thank you David and band.
Mike -
“can imagine what it would be like, even with the boobs and their cameras, to be there”
hehehehe…damn, no boobs at my show – I must have been sitting in the cheap seats
N
Just got back to the uk after seeing the second Amsterdam gig.I never got to see Pink floyd live as i was too young,but I can honestly say that this was the greatest concert ive ever been to : ) Great lighting,Brilliant acoustics at the heinekken,And the all time best/Legend of a guitarist that is David Gilmour.
Thankyou David,Richard,Guy et al for playing one of the most emotional and exciting gigs ever and good luck with the rest of the tour.: )
TO JACO
I ALSO ATTENDED THE GIG AND WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY IM A BIT CONCERNED YOU MAY BE GOING DEAF AS THE ACOUSTICS WERE EXCELLENT !!!!!!!!!!!!
Sorry Fed, but I couldn’t bring myself to write down what I was actually thinking in reply to Chris.
Here’s the filtered bits that may be suitable.
Chris, ……………………………..twice………………….no intention of enjoying….
Waters fan…………………….no musical taste………………………..deaf…………….
Blind……………………………..dipstick.
Mike.
[That's great! Not only do you get it out of your system, which is good for your health, but we all have fun filling in the blanks and making up sentences of our own! Although that's something to do offline, of course. We're not getting involved in that old stuff and will not post any further comments, even if it would make a damn good competition. We've had our fun today, I think. Thanks to Chris for not enjoying the album or live show. - Features Editor]
Is there gonna be a DVD from the show?
[It's something that has certainly been considered. - Features Editor]