David on screen
That’s screens of all sizes (Rick and Jon, too).
It was ‘The Tonight Show with Jay Leno’ on the small screen last night (which you can view online if you’re in Europe and can’t wait until Tuesday), but we can confirm that David will be appearing on the UK’s premier music show, ‘Later.. with Jools Holland’, in May.
Of course, Jools played piano on ‘The Blue’ and often joins in with his guests on his show, so expect much speculation about which songs they’ll perform. Full details next week.
A bigger screen next. Regal Cinemas will be showing the 7 March concert at London’s Mermaid Theatre on 16 May across the US. Originally filmed for a BBC webcast, the footage has been edited and enhanced by director David Mallet and is scheduled to run in around 50 cinemas.
Tickets are on sale now so click here for further details.
And today you can see David’s AOL Session online, so you could watch that on a really tiny screen if that tickles your fancy – like so many of the concert videos you keep telling us about recording on your mobile phones.
As well as short interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, you can view the entire set, which includes four songs from David’s new album (‘On An Island’, ‘Take A Breath’, ‘Smile’ and ‘This Heaven’) plus two Floyd classics (‘Comfortably Numb’ and ‘High Hopes’). That’s not to be missed.
Listen out for an interesting titbit about David’s ‘new’ guitar strap, trivia fans.
Have a good weekend.
You too F*Ed,
Have a great weekend…Thanks again for everything…
~Matt
Loved the behind the scenes bit – just left me wanting to hear more from the guys!
CAPTION: note to Leno’s camerman ” My name is Rick Wright ”
Rgds Geoff Duffy
jools rools (sorry, i know that was lame, but i couldn’t resist). he does rule and he will show jay leno (and shallow americans in general) how a first rate musical guest should be treated on his show. i’m looking forward to that already. the aol session was great and made up for the leno disappointment. was it planned to make up for the leno letdown? you can tell me, ed. interesting story about david’s guitar strap. now can i be cheeky and ask what many people are thinking? why is the usa getting yet another treat with the mermaid show? the rest of the world had to make do with a crappy webcast and a few songs on bbc interactive. it doesn’t seem fair to me. you should reward a country for it’s loyalty and what better way than by album sales? canada tops, then the uk, portugal, germany, italy, new zealand, norway and the czech republic (all gold). us sales not so good, yet they get more shows than anyone else, island jam (the limited edition/best buy cd), competitions for tickets to the london shows, more radio interviews… now this. it p*sses me off and i bet it also p*sses many other people off. there are no shows in portugal, new zealand, norway or the czech republic. i’m not asking david to go there, but to show this concert in their theatres would be something. sorry for the rant, ed. just saying what i know people are thinking.
That’s excellent news about the appearance on ‘Later…with Jools. As you correctly say, it’s been the premier music show in the UK for some time now, in fact some may say the ‘only’ decent music show on UK TV. Should be fantastic.
I’ll actually be seeing Jools and his R&B Orchestra on the 18th, so the month of May is looking quite good for live music!
Have a great weekend F.Ed, try and find some time to chill and relax and hopefully the Mighty Reds can turn on a performance tomorrow that sends us off to Cardiff for the final.
CJD
[Let's hope, mate. Enjoy the game (if it's possible to enjoy playing Chelsea). - Features Editor]
I already posted my appreciation for the AOL session before, but “tiny screen” isnt correct Fed!, you can watch in full screen mode and the resolution is pretty good, much better than a phone video Im sure. (I didnt catch the guitar strap thing though)
Jools Holand show, thats great news. Now Im off to see if they will screen the concert in canadian cinemas as well, would you have any info fed?
Have a great, fantabulous weekend!
[It's just for the US, I believe. The bit about the guitar strap is on page three. You need to click on the boxes to the right of the text for a few extra interviews. You can also go to the eighth page for the Q&A, which has just appeared. - Features Editor]
Sorry to post again FEd, but do you know if it is possible to download or even purchase the AOL session anywhere? Or do the aol people just keep it available online untill we nuke the world to an end?
[I think it stays there until we nuke the world to an end, Paul. Someone will correct me if I'm wrong. - Features Editor]
Caption Competition…
JC thinking: Another keyboard player? b*llocks!
I saw you all LA bloggers on TV! Didn’t David look sharp with that white t-shirt and black sweater? I think my heart skipped a bit, hah! My sister and I were glued to the TV set. I wish I could’ve been there… But I had the opportunity to see David in Toronto, and I’m very happy about that =) The only thing that upset me about last nite’s show was that the camera men didn’t get any close-ups of Rick Wright, Guy, Mr. Manzanera or Steve DiStanislao, and that they didn’t air WYWH at all, although they made it available online.
PS. Dear Features Editor, in regards to my question about the blog’s future and your response [No need to apologise, mate. Forgive me. It's just been a rough week and I've been a right old misery], I completely understand! In fact, you’re a trooper for doing what you do! Thanks!
WOw Fed, we’ re on a roll here! Just saw the guitar strap thing amazing! I saw the videos early this morning and they didnt have that whole presentation up, I searched for david and just found the videos. So if anyone tried AOL earlier today and didnt find David on the home page, its definitely worth going back!
I WAS THERE! At the Gibson Amphitheater watching David Gilmour and Co. for the first time in my life. What a show, what an experience, what a great musician David is, didn’t know he played the Sax. What a surprise when he opened up the night with Breathe then followed by Time, I thought he was going to start off playing the entire OAI set. I think it was a good idea to kind of settle us down with some Pink Floyd classics to prepare us for what was to come. I’m glad they played the entire OAI CD live, very beautiful music indeed. The song that stood out the most from this set was Take a Breath, great light show to go with this great song. The second half of the show was Awesome as well, great selection of songs two of them I’ve never heard before (hopefully someone will come up with the setlist so I can get these songs). I was never able to catch Pink Floyd in concert but to see two of the original members last night along with a great back up band and above all to see them play Echoes, this made my Pink Floyd concert experience most satisfying.I was very privileged to be there last night. Thank you very much indeed Mr. Gilmour.
[Look at past blog entries. The setlist for each show is included among the fan comments. - Features Editor]
Like many others I too was dissapointed at the way David was poorly treated by the Leno Show. I stayed up late to see that and despite enjoying his performance I think it could have been handled way better.
It doesn’t p*ss me off the Mermaid Show is going to the big screen. Being a U.S. resident, I think it’s great!
Victor: I absolutely understand your frustration with seeing certain events unavailable in your area, but there are probably many business/logistical reasons for various things only being available in certain regions. I’d guess that it’s quite a bit more of an undertaking than simply calling up some theaters and asking if they’d like to show a concert film. In any event, try to enjoy the opportunities you ARE given. If you live in a city where David played (or will be playing still) then you are far luckier than most. As for sweeping generalities such as “and shallow Americans in general”, well you’re just showing your own shallowness. Try to relax and count your blessings, friend.
FEd: have a great weekend. Thanks for all the hard work.
VICTOR:
Shallow American here. While I refuse to speak for all of us, I will readily admit that we have done nothing (in particular) to deserve all of this (this being the variety of opportunities to enjoy David Gilmour’s band and music).
Yes, Jay Leno is a poor excuse for entertainment and has not an ounce of humanity. He is an ass…and it seems many Americans do tune it. Though my guess is that people are watching his guests and not the third-rate ‘comic,’ Jay Leno.
Expectations for the show should not have been high. But I do appreciate the fact that David was on the show- if even for 4 minutes. Why complain?
I do agree with your point that the rest of the world absolutely should have the same opportunity to view these movie-theater concerts – and it would fill a void for some parts of the world that did not get a visit from the band on this tour. Perhaps this is still in the works? Or perhaps the format itself is driven by an American organization- thus bringing the opportunity to our doorstep?
Yes, no doubt, America certainly has its share of warts. And yes, we Americans are the easiest of targets -mostly due to our ridiculous form of government and savage media mechanism. Culturally, we are quite challenged – more now than ever. But we are a large and incredibly diverse people. Just as we ought not generalize our thoughts pertaining to the rest of the world, other ought not assume that all Americans are cut of the same cloth.
The WORLD is one messed up place. Power corrupts. Man is deeply flawed.
But music is love. Let’s at least attempt to enjoy it and embrace it TOGETHER.
Thanks to David and the band and crew for embarking on this tour. It was a pleasure I won’t soon forget.
Best,
Kevin
Chicago/USA
Hey peeps. What a tour! Best of 2006 so far, and album is Grammy worthy for sure, but that doesn’t mean it will happen. I am sure some American Idol star is worthy too, yeah right.
THANK YOU DAVID, GUY, Richard, Band…Polly…FEd…everyone!! You did us all a favor here.
I have been very busy…seems as if all the excitement got me behind in my work? Also, saw the Acoustic Robinson Brothers last night in a room w only 325 people, so what a shift from the gang in Oakland Sunday/Monday.
Nice Job on Leno, although Leno sucks. You guys were great, and Graham looks to enjoy being a part of it…
Peace
BiGal, Football Loving American!
Yes, it’s me again. Ive been investigating and here is how you can watch the videos in real FULL SCREEN mode.
Click my name. Then, in the music search to the top right select video and search for gilmour, this will return a menu with each one of the tracks, hit play on any one of them, and then a whole new player will open. Now, on the bottom right of the player, under the timer, and to the right of the volume control theres a little black box with a “cross” in it. Click it, and voila, real full screen. You can later go back and watch the interview and the whole flash presentation on David’s AOL session.
Paul B reporting, sorry for all the posts you guys, but full screen makes me happy.
Hey, Fed.
I’ve been absent from the board for a bit while I navigated my re-entry to Earth after David’s Toronto shows. Plus, I was too jealous of all the Chicago and California people gearing up to see him!
Wanted to update you on the Canada Customs charges on my Hot Seat package:
Ticketmaster have been very nice and very helpful. They investigated and have directed me to send my customs paperwork to the third-party shipper of the package, who has promised to “rectify” the matter. I assume that means they will reimburse me for the customs charge, but I’m sure it will take another week or more for that to happen. Unless you hear otherwise, you can assume all was resolved.
According to T-master, this shouldn’t have happened, so all should be smooth when David returns to Canada.
If you’re posting this, I want everyone to know what a gracious and kind help you, dear Fed, have been. Thanks for everything you do to look out for us fans. Keep up the great work!
Sherry in Toronto
P.S. Curse NBC for not allowing enough time to play the full version of OAI nor any of WYWH. Yes, Tom Green’s ramblings were much more important than a rare network appearance by a musical legend as if!
[Thanks for the update, Sherry. I'm pleased to hear that someone is at least looking into it and I hope you get that refund. - Features Editor]
Ah, I’m a bit bummed that the Mermaid show is the one that’s gonna be on the big screen on May 16.
I had heard that it was going to be the show from Rome that they were showing on 5/16…guess not.
The Mermaid show was just a tour warm-up and had a shortened setlist, no “Wots The Deal,” no “Echoes,” etc. The set that night only clocked in at around 60-65 minutes, correct?
[Correct. - Features Editor]
Thank you so much, Mr. Gilmour and bandmembers, for the Leno performance. All of you looked to be having a great time, the vocals were beautiful and the way Mr. Gilmour ripped into that guitar for the solos – I had goosebumps! Just for that, I’ll cheer for Arsenal to make it through to the Champions League final
sounds right to me F ed. watching/listening to the aol sessions right now. how very nice. and great to see some up close shots of very neat gear that’s been lugged around the globe. parts anyway. these guys sound great. what an amazing rock band. here’s the real dr. ROCK.
Dear Features Editor,
Just want to wish you a nice weekend, relax and take care!
Good luck to the reds in the match tomorrow!
“Only” 38 days till RAH!!!!
Best regards
JT
[Thank you very much. The same to you. - Features Editor]
[I think it stays there until we nuke the world to an end, Paul. Someone will correct me if I'm wrong. - Features Editor]
Good grief, you are never wrong! Go home, kick back with a bottle of plonk and relax, looks like you’ve had a busy week!
Helen
I’d be interested to know which kind of acoustic guitar (nylon string) did David Gilmour use during High Hopes.
The Guitar Strap…
Follow the link to see the picture DG mentions in the interview…
The AOL sessions was a lot of fun to watch. Thanks, band, for giving that to your fans. I was also very excited to watch and hear the soft acoustic solo at the end of High Hopes which was partially ruined for me at Radio City opening night when the crowd untimely and annoyingly cheered the entire time you were playing it. I’m thrilled I was able to hear it again without the noise this time. Beautiful.
Tara (NY)
Message to all – DG keep up the good work and from what I’ve read, the tour is going well and I hope it continues to do so.
Sadly I wont be at any of the shows in the UK as I’ve been ripped off by a dodgy ticket site in the UK. I dont know about anyone else but I thought I would let everyone know about these websites – fortunatelly they have now been closed down by the UK DTI. The moral of the story is to carefully check when buying tickets in the future and never part with credit card details unless you know the sites are genuine!
I just watched the AOL stream. What an incredible performance impeccably captured on film. I was lucky to have witnessed that in person. It was, needless to say, a day that I’ll never forget. It was the same day that David taped the XM session. I was extremely fortunate to have gotten my name on the guest list for that (someone did me a great favor). I happened to be picking up a friend from England that day that had just come into Newark, NJ. This had been planned for months so I already had the day scheduled as a vacation day at work. My friend and I got into New York a bit too early for the XM session but walked up to the studio early anyway. You see, this friend of mine happened to be an old friend of David’s. He was actually in Unicorn. He was completely unaware of these tapings, by the way. It was just coincidental. Coincidence and timing played a big part in the day’s events.
We decided to go early to see if my friend would run into someone he knew and sure enough he did – David (“What are you doing here?!!”). He graciously let us in and had us added to his personal guest list. I had no idea that the AOL taping was happening. We immediately got to watch them soundcheck and then perform all those songs. The only others that were there were family members and the crew working on it. I don’t know what good deed I did that entitled me to witness this truly intimate performance – to actually watch that band during a hard day at the office – but there I was!
David and band were in great spirits and everyone in the room just seemed very happy to be involved. David even came by to chat with my friend for a bit while the band members and sound crew were trying to isolate a hum stemming from the bass guitar. They all seemed to really be enjoying themselves during the taping.
Soon after the AOL taping, the XM session commenced. This was not recorded in the larger studio where the AOL show happened, but in a very small room down the hall. About 30 people filled the room. Somehow I ended up seated directly in front of David Gilmour – there wasn’t a better spot in the room. I even got to ask one of the questions – I ask the one about performing with Rick again (listen for it!). David seemed to like my question and gave a nice response to it. He performed two songs with Phil Manzanera. I won’t reveal them here in case you want to be surprised. They sounded gorgeous.
When it was over someone in the second row asked Dave for his guitar pick. He graciously backtracked to the vintage 1930′s wooden Hawaiian guitar that he had sitting on a flat stand (my friend had earlier told him “it’s about time you bought a new one!”), picked up the pick he had just used which was lying on the guitar, and handed it to the man. I thought the guy was going to pass out!
Anyway, I didn’t mean to carry on, but it was so great to see that AOL performance again. Definitely check it out if you have not already. It is just so nice that there is all of this Gilmour activity going on! And although I don’t regularly post messages to the blog, I do check it out daily. It’s great that there are so many of us out there that have a deep appreciation of the work that this man has done over the years and continues to do. On an Island continues to impress me every day….my current favorite track is “Where we Start”. It seems to straddle a line between melancholia and euphoria.
Dave DiSanzo
This is terrible. I’m supposed to be working and I just keep watching the AOL Sessions over and over.
Thank God its Friday!
Nice BD present from Polly to David eh?
Cheers!
Hmmmmm. Not sure even what to say or why I am on here. As an american with a british wife, and living in England I am sad to pronounce that today My son Daniele Barrett Roesli passed away. Fed if you dont print this I understand, and why I am on here I dont why. Maybe to vent. As I can say the Floyd have always moved me musically, and being a guitar player of 25 years I dont know where else to go at this moment. David has always influenced me as a a guitar player and writer as well as Roger. As my Band has done numerous shows in San francisco for benefits as for Amenesty International and Save the Bay. Wish you were here will have such a different meaning to me now. I am so sad, and quite sure what to say, but for now just typing is helping me vent. I miss my boy!!!!!! I hope all have enjoyed the tour as the music that David and the Floyd have done has always been moving. Hope the Gilmours get home safely, and wish them the best , As with everyone, and if you have children please give them a cuddle and a kisd, and cherish all the moments you have with them. Thank you again David for all the music, and thank you FED for doing such a great job.
Cheers
David
[David, I am so sorry. I don't know what to say. My sincerest condolences to you and your family at what must be a horrible time. - Features Editor]
It seems as though the “Big Screen Concerts” folks don’t know what day it is…tickets are not yet on-sale, even though the page states, “Tickets on Sale 4.21.”
Perhaps they will go on sale the same day Pulse is released on DVD… ;-)
Set list from 4/20 , anyone, shine on
[The blog entry entitled "Night 20: Los Angeles", perhaps? - Features Editor]
Good job AOL! Just watched the videos and interviews – great camera work, good views of all the band, and good sound (although I would have preferred Richard’s keys to be a touch louder, but hey…). Felt like I was there…more on this later…
I now know what everyone means by the dynamics between Guy and Steve – fantastic rhythm section, and both were so into the groove. Loved keeping up with them both, with Guy doing his thing bopping around, and Steve doing the equivalent on drums. Great to watch, especially during Take A Breath which sounded so much rockier than the album and loved it.
Loved Richard’s comments – “I know lots about Dave but nothing I’m going to tell you people” had me laughing out loud, and most importantly “David is one of the best guitarists in the world” – which I couldn’t agree with more. This isn’t mentioned often enough imho because he really is. Also Jon’s comments regarding David as having created a genre, and playing an atmosphere, or feeling were spot on and said something that I’ve never been able to put my finger on. The closest reference to this I’ve heard is of David as being the ‘godfather of ambient music’…which doesn’t even begin to describe his contribution…
But the real surprise was Polly’s birthday present to David – DG – you know you’ve married the right woman when she gives you Hendrix’s guitar strap for your birthday
Polly, you have exquisite taste. From one guitar legend to another – it’s in great keeping. Now if you wouldn’t mind breaking out some ‘Little Wing’ at the RAH…would be rude not to 
Whilst watching the performances on the AOL videos I had an idea (wait for it..!). Because family commitments make touring difficult for David, why not bring David to the world, via video? (please don’t say we just did with the AOL one..!) In future, whilst you can’t beat a live performance, I’d be over the moon with a webcast every now and then from the houseboat studio. Fans all around the world would be able to get access, and any revenue generated from it could go to one of David and Polly’s preferred charities. The webcasts would be anything that David is playing with at that time – so no pressure of any kind. I’m thinking of the kinds of aural landscapes that have accompanied DG.com, rather than full-blooded performances. In these days of digital delivery it’s so easy to do, costs nothing, and means that David can continue to innovate, entertain and delight without having to leave the country – and add some much needed money to the environmental charities… Anyhow, just a thought…
Thanks again for a lovely Friday afternoon treat – have a great weekend everyone. I’m off to Brighton for the weekend, so I’ll see you all on Monday. Saturday afternoon is Spurs Arsenal and I’ll be in a pub somewhere in Brighton willing Spurs on. Oh how I wish DG supported any other club. Fingers crossed for the Reds though – anything you can do to help stop Chelsea, or even catch Man U, would be grrrrreat…
N
Bravo to my namesake in Chicago for setting a level on the perception of Americans. If anything, it’s been U.S. music fans who’ve dramatically helped sustain interest in David Gilmour’s music over the years. Just to create some perspective: my six-year-old daughter discovered – via davidgilmour.com – her favourite David Gilmour song is Castellorizon. She and I then went on the internet and found pictures of Kastellorizo and I explained in very broad terms how this place is the inspiration for the song. “I like David’s music,” was my daughter’s simple response. How heartwarming for this 50-year-old David Gilmour fan. Best to all the fans in the U.S., the U.K.and across the globe – I’m very envious of those who were able to see the U.S. and Toronto shows. RAH DVD should be wonderful. Thanks for all your hard work Fed …
Kevin
Winnipeg
CANADA
Size is not everything
(The Mermaid show was just a tour warm-up and had a shortened setlist, no “Wots The Deal,” no “Echoes,” etc. The set that night only clocked in at around 60-65 minutes, correct?)Quoted Ryan.
“just”??
“shortened”???
Two many “no”s
I was at the Mermaid concert and it was fantastic. Felt like the real thing cos it was. If the Glasgow concert is a fraction as good then I count myself very lucky indeed, which I am.
Ian Pearson
JUST FOUND OUT THAT DAVID GILMOUR WILL BE ON JOOLS HOLLAND LATER ON FRIDAY 26 MAY
WHAT ABOUT THE PEOPLE THAT WILL BE AT THE FIRST DATE OF HIS TOUR IN UK AT BRIDGEWATER HALL IN MANCHESTER AND HAVE TO TRAVEL TO THE SHOW FROM OTHER PARTS OF THE COUNTRY LIKE ME FROM BIRMINGHAM
ASK DAVID IF HE COULD THINK ABOUT PLAYING THE SYMPHONY HALL BIRMINGHAM NEXT TIME HE TOURS AS I HAVE JUST NOT LONG SEEN JETHRO TULL PLAY THERE AND IT IS A GREAT VENUE
[Video? - Features Editor]
I got up early today to be sure I got 516 tickets. Here it will be on one of the newest and largest IMAX screens. I’m taking the kids so I hope there’s no reefer madness.
P.S. I just got a cumbus as a Bday present….. (I dropped alot of hints..hehehe)
Thanks again to David and family for your visit to our great country. It was an honor and priviledge to see you preform at the Rosemont theatre on April 13th. Something I will not soon forget. Thank you to the Band: Steveie D, Rick , John,Phil, Dick,and Guy. Have a wonderful summer!
Cory
I am extremely happy to announce, that the song “On An Island” has already gone number 1 in the charts of the Polish Radio Third Channel (“Trójka” as we call it in our language), which is definitely the most respectable radio in our country
.
Let me say that again: “On An Island” has already gone number 1 in the charts of “Trójka”
Hello, F.Ed,
Still working on getting caught up. Saw the Leno link, David did great, considering the circumstances of being Leno and all. Don’t you just love Corporate America? We have someone as talented as DG on a show, and we have to plug a CAR of all things before he can play. I am waiting for the day where every square of toilet paper will have ‘roid cream and laxative promos. Regardless of our profiteering ways, David still sounded great. WYWH was great, that song always sounds so organic and natural to me, especially live. That little phrase that Rick did on the ‘piano’ really added alot to that song.
To Rick Strang, loved the list, good work. Now we can add one more – one post gathering data for how many bloggers it takes to review a gig from the On an Island tour.-
Haven’t made it to the AOL sesions yet, that is my next adventure.
Have a safe trip home, David and crew, I hope you have enjoyed your stay in the States, please come see us again soon.
Have a great weekend, all
Mike
(I added to my name slightly because there are more Mikes on here lately.)
P.S. I have been having trouble posting also.
hi fet ed . just checking in to say hi really . sorry i have’nt been in but i have been dog sick with flu and last night i caught conjunctive itis. however belive it or not i am not here to complain :-) one last thing if i am repeating other peoples points i do apologise but the aforementione eye trouble has made reading a little difficult .
i just want to say that i enjoyed david on jay leno which i have just watched on his web site . if you don;t like his tv show i think the web site is a better place to watch davids contribution ! the lucky people who kicked back to the laid back sounds of on an island and wish you were here . i hope you got to the concert on time :-)
glad to hear the gigs are still going ok . i hope everyone is still enjoying them :-)
i am off to watch the aol session now . take care fet ed and have a good weekend .
peace
Linda
p.s don;t come too near me when reading this !i am full of germs from the flu and conjuntive itis :-)
[Get well soon, Linda. - Features Editor]
I just got cinema tickets for David on the big screen! Something else to look forward to. Thanks for all the information, Edwina.
**biding my time…**
xo
Deborah
Gee I thought we were all fans here. Its too bad it has to be seperated by the country we live in and to be called shallow. Oh well. I treat people as people no matter where they come from.
As for the Leno deal, I cherrish any moment I get to see a performance. Anyone who knows the format of the show and expected more was only kidding themself. It was a wonderful several minutes and with it on TIVO I will watch it over and over.
Thanks to all of you again for coming! I hope you enjoyed your stay as much as we enjoyed having you. Come back soon!!!!!!!!!!!!
FEd I just wanted to say thank you for all the work you’ve done. I has been a pleasure to read this blog. I think, in general, this is a very positive community.
I am a sound engineer by trade who works both FOH in clubs and for several local, and national, television broadcasters. It is a sad fact that audio is indeed the bastard child of television. A live show, no matter the size of the hall, will always sound better than any live T.V. broadcast no matter the budget.
They really are trying to do two different things. T.V. is satisfying the advertisers, while the live show is satisfying the true client, the fans.
I for one was anticipating seeing The Band on the Tonight Show, and while it wasn’t a live show, we saw David nontheless. And in addition to this blog, the T.V. broacast satisfied my appetite to simply hear more (and see) more of Mr. Gilmour’s art.
By the way did anyone see Crosby air guitaring for a second during one David solo?, that was hilarious! Also, about half way through the live Tonight Show broadcast (during a tease-out), a camera panned accross the outdoor theatre audience, and you could see many more faces than during the performance of OAI (later in the show).
For live T.V. if the sound is on, that is good enough. It is the sad truth. The whole mix is secondary. Also, the fact that the crew and director had to deal with the outside venue (a seperate production area from the inside hall) I’m sure didn’t impress them any (they’ll still earn the same amount regardless). I’d love to hear from someone who was on crew at the Tonight Show event.
Again FEd, you rock, I feel humbly indebited to your continued, albeit, restrained, moderation of this site. Every good blog needs it. You do us proud.
Best Regards,
Marcus Buick
[Thanks for that, Marcus. Have a good weekend. - Features Editor]
Re: The AOL sessions. All I can say is Wow! What a great session. No one can complain of crowd noise eh? I thought the guys sounded wonderful. I saw the 1st RCMH show which was also fantastic but this was so much more personal. As a musician in a band I also appreciate how it featured everyone working together as a unit. The mix was great, each musician could be heard. I would love a whole concert like this. Can’t wait for the upcoming DVD.
On a semi related topic. I recently discovered a lot of Davids older video material. I have always collected rare David and Pink Floyd related stuff and was astounded to see video from the 1st solo album. It was much like the AOL session just David and his band in a big studio setting playing cuts from the album. I never knew this existed, but surely Dave has it in a vault somewhere. Will he ever consider putting it out? Maybe as a bonus for the new DVD. By the way Mihilas has always been a favorite and it is there to see.
One other question. The notes for the 1978 session say Davids brother Mark plays guitar on these sessions. Is this true and if so does he still play?
[These are all questions for the FAQs page, sorry. - Features Editor]
Um I have watched and enjoyed the sessions but can’t find the bit about his strap, could you point me in the right direction I love being a gilmour anarack, thank you.
[As it says above, the bit about the guitar strap is on page three. You need to click on the boxes to the right of the text for a few extra interviews. You can also go to the eighth page for the Q&A. - Features Editor]
In this modern age where most of the new popular music we’re exposed to seems disposable, lacking imagination and heart (at least in America), it’s good to hear how many younger people have attended David’s shows, as we would hope that the “torch” could be passed to future generations of musicians. We have been privileged to see some amazing craftsmen/artists performing timeless music that defies description.
David, Rick, Guy, Jon, Phil, Steve, Dick – your performances blew so many people away, and I’m sure many musicians in attendance, younger or older (myself included) have been inspired to new levels. Have a safe trip home, and we all hope to see you again soon.
Cheers;
Bill C.
Caption:
Hi my name is Rick Wright and I’m another ‘Voice From Pink Floyd’ for those who didn’t know. I’m not always introduced properly!!
Really pleased about this upcomming Jools Holland show !
I’ve been wondering about that show in general and now particularly that David Gilmour will be featured. I don’t mean to bother you Features Ed about this but how is it possible to be in the audience ? I’ve searched around for details on the net and can’t find anything about tickets. Is it usually by special invites ? I’m probably right in thinking that there’ll be a competition about for this sometime next week then ? ;-) lol
Anyway I hope I’m not borhering you asking about tickets !
Thanks.
Andy.
[No competition, sorry. The BBC make all the arrangements and, as it says on the 'Later...' website, "there is a huge demand for tickets to the show and due to health and safety reasons only a small number of people are allowed in the studio each week. The waiting list for tickets is now closed. When the ticket lines re-open we'll let you know" - so it looks like there's no chance of going along, unfortunately. - Features Editor]
The AOL sessions were fantastic! The band is really synced up with each other, its shame it such a short tour. It would be great if we could get those sessions to air on VH1 or something.
Nice work on Jay Leno last night fellas. It gave me goose bumps. Thank you.
Dan
Just finished watching the AOL sessions. They were absolutely aweso… err, very, very good. Having been at the Massey Hall show, it was dissappointing (though not unexpected) not to be able to hear the guitarwork at the end of High Hopes due to audience enthusiasm. With Sessions, it was great to hear David’s exquisite work to close out the song. I knew he was playing something at Massey Hall, but to be able to hear it and see it so up close sends shivers along my spine. Thanks to AOL, David and whoever else is resposible for their presence. And, thanks for some great tour memories. This blog has been a treat, it is like the tour never really ends, just morphs into different forms, always new and exciting. Thanks FEd.
F.Ed,
Thanks for the heads up on the David Gilmour movie screenings – found one in my area, bought my tix and will be there on the 16th. And while some on this site will no doubt bemoan the fact that it’s not the full tour set list (no Echoes etc), I for one, am just happy to be able to see him play even if it is just for a little while! Not being able to get to a concert really did bite.
IMHO, he could play a lullaby and it would be worth the price of admission. Wait, didn’t he do that at Meltdown….? losing it now….
Shukriya,
Nisha
I, too, was very disgusted by Leno’s treatment of David, throwing him at the end like he was some second-rate singer! How insulting!!
On a different channel; I was at both shows in Chicago and maybe it would be helpful to post large signs with “rules of etiquette” for attending a concert given by someone as legendary as David. Such as
#1 Please no whooping out names of songs such as “Another brick in the wall” or “Young Lust” during quiet intros into songs(Let alone whooping anything!) Just shut up and Listen!
#2Please no clapping and whooping until the song is COMPLETELY done!
#3 Please no singing along with PF songs; the people next to you may wish to hear David and Rick sing these songs instead of listening to your out-of-tune bawling
#4 If you have the money to pay for a ticket in the first three rows, STAY THERE!! Don’t keep getting up and leaving and coming back constantly! It’s annoying and frustrating and it pisses off people who are probably dying to sit that close to David; and remember, he can see you leaving!
There were some times that I was cringing in embarrassment due to some of the stupid things people were saying and doing. No wonder David doesn’t like playing to American audiences, I wouldn’t either if I was treated like he was, especially on the first night. Shame on you, Chicago!! I was also amazed to find that most of the people I talked to around me didn’t know much about him(other than he was in PF)or even owned his new cd(let alone his first two)! These were people in row A, right behind the orchestra pit, and the ticket price was quite hefty.
[I couldn't agree more and I love the idea of rules (although it would be even better if rules weren't needed at all, because people had respect and all that you've listed would just be considered common sense, as it is to you and I), but you just know that it would be a waste of time thinking of rules, writing out rules, copying rules, and sticking rules up all over the theatres in the faint hope that people would pay attention to them. People don't pay attention. People don't give a damn. I wasted no end of time earlier in the week drawing up a list of rules for the blog before realisation dawned that my rules would be like water off a duck's back to many people, so why on earth should I bother? Sue me if I'm speaking out of turn here, but the staff at these venues should have been much firmer. They knew the rules and just let people break them. They should have forced people to leave. They should have stopped the camera/mobile phone nonsense immediately. When you're up against people who are going to do whatever they like no matter what you say or how you say it, you really need a team of people who are all singing from the same hymn sheet. When you're working with people who clearly just can't be bothered to enforce the rules or do their job properly, it makes you wonder why you even bother yourself. Isn't that depressing? It's true, though. You can only bang your head against a brick wall for so long before your head starts to hurt and it's probably a good idea that you stop. The people who huff and puff because there weren't enough shows on this tour for their liking should think about that. - Features Editor]
To Kevin in Chicago,
Here’s to ya on your remarks to Victor!
You really got it right and said it well!
I too was disappointed with the Leno Show treatment of David and the band. They could have tossed the lame guy with the bird and picked a lot of time for quality music. I guess you just have to look at it from an exposure angle Which is good. If it exposes people to the music that have not had the opportunity before (hard to believe that is true) then it’s great.
To FEd,
Please excuse my momentary laps the other day with the link request. With just a little thought I could understand your position on it. You have done and continue to do a great job here!
Have a great weekend.
Tom
hi fet ed . just want to make a few comments about the aol session . it was tops . the live versions of the songs are really good esepcially this heaven and take a breath. even my mom who is in the next room and certainly does’nt share my taste in music has admired on an island and smile ! ( then she told me it is getting late and and can i use my headphones !) i love ricks voice on comfortably numb . i never knew john carin played slide guitar as well as keyboards :-)
i envy all those who went or are going to the gigs :-)
i am listening to the session really loud on a set of headphones conected to my computer speakers and would recomend anyone to do the same . this is something that should’nt be played quietly especially the more rockier tracks .
the behind the scenes section and interviews were cool too . guy pratt you seem like a top bloke :-) it is good to see how well the band seem to gel as humans as well as gelling as musicians .
i will put a plug for the aol session on my my space blog and i might get a few more people tio watch it and maybe buy on an island .
it is amazing to think david is using hendrix’s guitar strap . well at least it eventually got from one guitar god to another . full marks to polly for getting it .
well thats it for now as my eyes feel like they have a gravel stones in them right now . o the joys of having an eye infection :-) i am off to my bed to stick some more eye drops in .talk to you again fet ed !
peace
Linda
hI AGAIN BLOGGERS. I just finished the AOL session, and how nice. I’ll take Gilmour any way I can get him. Whoever is mad about the Mermaid thing, well what can I say? After all, I am a shallow American. I must be because I’m American. what a rude and idiotic thing to say.
My work here is done,
Love,
Elizabeth
[For the record, the word "shallow" wasn't removed from Victor's post because I took it as an accusation aimed at the makers of American TV shows - who do constantly promote endless products - which I personally find shallow, as do many other people who (thankfully) aren't used to watching American TV regularly. Can we try to be less self-defensive and quick to judge? You're all so quick to jump down someone's throat. - Features Editor]
Well, wouldn’t you know the minute I finish my ticket transaction for the theatre show, I read this fan blog and I discover I’m not going to be seeing ECHOES!! AUUUUUGGGGHHHHH!!!!
I’ll try to be happy with what I get, but I wish I’d have known this was going to be one short show.
Great to see the Leno and AOL footage tonight – bloody hell doesn’t ‘Take A Breath’ rock in a way that a rocking thing rocks!! The Q&A bit is great as well!
Interesting to see that the Mermaid footage is being shown in the States….t’would be nice if it was to see the light of day on an official release at some point but what will be will be.
Well, big day for your boys tomorrow F’Ed – not sure what time the KO is as I’m at my wife’s sister’s wedding and all other matters have been rather pushed aside… anyway, best of luck to Liverpool, we can’t have Chelsea winning the double now can we!!
[Thanks, Neil. Up the 'Pool indeed. - Features Editor]
I’m almost as thrilled and delighted as I was to be able to attend the Mermaid gig, as I am knowing so many other fans will now share and enjoy that experience on the big screen. This was the 2nd gig of the entire tour (got to count David’s birthday as the 1st) and as such, was an historic event. Don’t quibble about the lack of Floyd numbers, as ‘On An Island’ stands as an inspired body of work beside the very best that David and Rick’s former band produced…
Hi FEd and everybody else. Time to go to bed (half past 1 in the morning) but I *had* to see the Leno performance. My impression : nice songs; I think Leno treated him nicely, even showing the new CD; I’d expected worse, but I’m not used to Leno as we can’t see his show in Holland. We used to get ‘old’ shows from David Cypherwomen (I know, bad joke) a few years back and then remembered the AOL session (how could I forget). It was great to watch them so up close and see them all smiling again. Performances were very nice. Nice to see the slide from Jon so well. Also the Q&A and behind the scenes and photos and the small videos next to the info pages were very nice.
One thing that I noticed is that Richard calls David Dave… But he’s been a friend for so long, I think he’s about the only person allowed to do so. And what song was it that I thought David was eating a guitar pick ? He’d better eat them than give them to Ryan ;-)
Well, it’s off to bed now. Be sure to check Leno’s/NBC’s site for the two tracks and AOL for the session. It’s definitely worth your time !!!
Piet
WOW, that show at AOL Sessions was GREAT. Question: how many black T-shirts does David Gilmour have? Hehe. I loved the ending of High Hopes, with Gilmour playing the last part on acustic guitar and the rest of the band just watching the show too. The behind the scenes was interesting.
Watched the Leno thing online too. It was ok, the problem was that car ad (did Gilmour get anything for that?).
It’s a great time for being a David Gilmour and Pink Floyd fan.
Hi FED a fellow miserry guts here
Just watched the Jay Leno clips – very nice! Here’s a question for the American readers – is all US TV so commercial? I mean Leno introduced a f*&$ing car before he introduced the music!
May draws ever closer and the RAH shows!!! I hope the UK fans will meet up somewhere before the show as they have done in the US as it would be good to put faces to the names in the blog.
Regards
Matty
Just watched the AOL sessions, and it was absolutley brilliant, my best mate steve with me now(who is actually the other of the mermaid three!),who I converted to floyd only a matter of months ago, could not belive the quality of the performance, to a point he now want`s to watch it again(I don`t have a problem with that!)
And Ricks comments about David, probably? being the best guitarist in the world, is without question! I think we should leave the word `probably` to a lager manufacturer!
watched AOL Sessions three times already. Cant get enough of David and the Band. The close ups are great.
Fed I hope you have a great weekend. You really deserve it…………
[Thank you. It's been good so far. Hope you have a good one, too. - Features Editor]
Hello again, F.Ed.
While listening to the (spectacular) AOL sessions, I realized something; Those of you who saw David live, I am glad you got a chance to see him. I see now what I missed. I also understand why you were so mad at the people with the testicular fortitude to act like they were at a honky tonk. It’s amazing those asinine schmucks weren’t throttled to the point of unconsciousness by some die-hard Gilmourauders. I probably would have seriously considered it, and I am the biggest passivist I know.
I do have an antecdote for you, David. While I was watching the AOL sesions, my 17 month old son was in the other room playing, doing his own thing. When High Hopes started, he dropped everything, came over and sat on my lap. He sat still and quiet, seriously watcing and listening to what was going on. Twice he put his little hand up and kind of waved it back and forth. It was so cool! When the song was over, he went back to his own little thing. Then again, in the Behind the Scenes part, when it came on, he ran over to hear it. When it was done, he went to do his own thing. He has never done anything like that before. Even a toddler recognizes a true gift when he hears it.
Anyways, have a good evening, all.
Mike
I’m a new “blogger” but have read nearly every post over the past weeks following the reports of this fantastic tour. As the American leg of the journey completes, I thought I’d share my appreciation, too.
F-Ed! Thank you for doing such a great job with the BLOG. It has painted such a great picture of each show, and that has somewhat made up for those of us who were unable to see the show(s) live! I see that it has been quite a filtering task for you… and if the text on your screen is anywhere near as small as it on mine, I hope you have a good eye-doctor (;)). You and all of your hard work to make this blog happen and remain a pleasant place is sincerely appreciated! Cheers to you with the libation of your choice!
Thanks for the links to the AOL session. I enjoyed seeing the band having such a good time. They sound great… even if it is streamed over the internet into a relatively tiny screen. It’s a nice collection of songs, too. I also found the ‘behind the scenes’ spot to be interesting… the guitar strap story was cool, as were the rest of the interviews and information.
In fact, reading about all of the different set lists and concert comments from the tour, and looking at Polly’s photos in the galleries, it seems clear that these great musicians are all enjoying themselves immensely. Reading that ‘Arnold Layne’ was added to the set list in California put a Smile on my face… as did the other oldies as they’ve been added, too.
One thing I have learned over the years is that you can trust David Gilmour to come up with a set list that is both entertaining, that makes musical/emotional sense, and that moves an audience along with it during the show.
To David and Polly: I love the new album and the music. I think it is the best yet. The words and melodies are stunning… definitely a soundtrack for life – mine and many others who have posted here as well, it seems. The themes are obviously quite universal in that sense, and we’re all just really good at projecting our feelings on to it! As a citizen of this planet, thanks for the carbon neutrality angle, too.
Guy Pratt is just too cool! I think it is great that you went for a beer with some of the others on here before a show. Does anyone else notice a slight resemblence between Bradley Whitford (Josh Lyman on NBC’s ‘West Wing’ program) and Guy?
I first saw Guy with the band in ’88, where I was one of the teeming anthill of people in the stadium crowd, and I asked my friend, “who is this teenager playing with PF?” Of course, he wasn’t a teenager, just very young-looking. His playing was great then and is even finer now!
It’s good to hear Rick Wright and know that he is having a great time on this tour, too, getting to sing some of the songs that work so well in these smaller venues. In fact, this is really quite a line up of musicians. From what I’ve seen on the BBC and AoL streams, a good match it is, too.
So, for David and the musicians: thanks for all of the entertainment… the music and words, and the challenge that has resulted in a countless number of hours that I have spent over the last 20 years or so nicking around with my guitars attempting to figure out ‘just exactly how did David do that?’ That challenge has elevated the quality of my playing, without a doubt.
You all are very appreciated… and I hope that your touring continues to be fun! Hopefully you’ll get back this way again sometime!
-Tom from Kansas
Well I was very disappointed at the Leno show….not because of David and the band, nor because of Jay either. But because it was all so rushed. Typical …why can’t the show give a musical guest a spot long enough to finish a song without having to do a shortened version…..I mean would it have hurt anybody to give David and the band 10 minutes instead of 4?? Bloody poor planning. I mean, do you reckon that the show producers really knew who they had when David Gilmour stepped onto their stage?? ….I think not. What a bunch of plonkers!
I bet Paul Shaffer and David Letterman would have given him more time….they often play Floyd material during the shows.
Bob Mitchell in Victoria, BC, Canada
Hey Folks
Don’t be a hater. Leno brought us two beautiful clips (one on TV and both on line). Any chance to see a bit more is a bit more. Why be critical of a TV host who opened his doors and cameras to give the world a chance to see what a precious few of us got to witness.
Thank you David and Crosby/Nash for your wonderful heartfelt moments shared with us!
Cheers to all the fans who got to go to this mini show in L.A.
Question: What do you call someone who sees David Gilmour 4 times in 2 days (Kodak, Leno soundcheck, Leno show, & Gibson), & Arnold Layne, Graham Nash & David Crosby twice in those same 2 days…
Answer: The luckiest guy on the planet and that guy is ME!!!
I just got back from L.A. and I’m completely spent but I wanted you to know just how grateful I am right now to be blessed with The Fed Land Experience, the wonderful regular bloggers who I met at Leno (Angelo, Erin, others),and this life changing experience over the past 2 1/2 days.
I now have 3 gigs in the next 2 days and if they don’t kill this old rocker, I’ll report in ASAP in full!
A HUGE HUG for FeD!!! (hope I didn’t hurt your back on that one, sorry!)
Hogs and Quiches!!
little tommy gilmost from san diego
Polly bought David a genuine Hendrix guitar strap, I only wish Natalie would buy me a genuine Gilmour guitar strap, perhaps then I`ll sound like David LOL:-)
FEd,
Us bloggists are still on the case to find out your I.D (Rick overlooked that one on his list). For what it’s worth, I think you’re Rudders… Why?
rudder
noun
1.A flat piece of (Pointy sticks)wood or metal at the back of a boat or aircraft, which is moved from side to side in order to control the direction of travel.
2.A guiding principle, etc.
Otherwise this site would be….
rudderless
adjective
(of an organization) without anyone in control and therefore unable to take decisions
[Interesting, but wrong. I'm just a fan. I hate to spoil it for some people, who like to think that there's a reason for my anonymity, but I'm nobody you'd know or recognise. I'm just a simple fan. And you can read "simple" any way you want to. - Features Editor]
I know it’s late, but just made it back to Washington from the Oakland shows. WOW!!! Fat Old Sun! We need you back this summer, In Seattle! Thanks David. Monday night in Oakland will forever be etched in my soul.
See ya this summer, perhaps in the Great Northwest?
rl
Features Editor, do you or anyone else reading this happen to know what kind of live sound mixing console was used on the tour? I saw an “05″ on it from a distance. Just a matter of curiosity as it looked like fun to use!
-Kurt
[If anyone in-the-know reads this and lets me know, then I shall let you know. - Features Editor]
I must have been living in a fog – I missed the entire tour and have been wondering when “Pink Floyd” would tour again. PLEASE KEEP TOURING – your concerts are such an amazing experience and I’ve been waiting since the last one I went to in the 90′s!
just a quick question fed, how long is the show going to be? ill have to drive a good ways to see it, ill have to make time arrangements. thanks tracy
[About three hours. - Features Editor]
I don’t know if Leno sucks, but he sure can’t read!. On one of the 4 blown promo spots, David looked like he wanted to help Jay (mouthing the words) he was struggling so badly to read the very big lettering in the back.
BTW, Leno’s makeup in the light of day is very scary, let me tell you! A Halloween fright night worthy look.
That being said, the Leno spot was great for the “big picture” promotionally speaking – a wakeup call for the marginal fans ,”fence sitters”, who haven’t heard a thing possibly since ’94. Whatever makes this album sell “bucketloads” I’m all behind it!
W1P already told you about the “if you want to get on camera wave your arms” explanation for that behavior you all saw.
2 Great, great shows in Los Angeles. I have a lot more empathy now for the earlier reporters of complaints concerning “Who-Hoo’ers”. Particularly abominable were the screamers at the end of High Hopes & Echoes. Lovely, lyrical, heart string pulling beauty met with sophmoric shouts & misplaced enthusiasm. One neanderthal in my section was screaming repeatedly for “Time”, early in the second set! Unbelievable!! (obviously already performed first thing, first set)
Overall just miraculous performances by David and the band! “Wots a the Deal” was spot on I thought and great to hear! Brickman’s lights and lasers were first rate stunners – always sensitive to the music in real time of course!
More later…late for work!
(“shallow Americans in general”)
Victor….I RESEMBLE THAT REMARK !!!
Actually, Americans are not a “shallow Bunch”. Well…..perhaps a few of us are.
Just remember who bailed you chaps out many years ago. THAT was truly a great generation of Americans!!!!!
Jersey Dave
I gotta tell you what…..life is good. I’m sitting here in front of the ‘ol pc eating pb&j with a big glass of milk, my little girl is asleep on the couch behind me and I’ve got the AOL session playing. OAI just finished and Comfortably Numb just started. What a great way to end the day.
To David Gilmour et al……Thanks for this album and tour. Thanks for all of the music you’ve done over the years. Thanks for the Live8 showing. For you two guys to let bygones be for such a cause was outstanding to say the least. Your music has ridden with me during the highest of highs and bouyed me during the lowest of lows. Once again, Thanks.
To the FEd…..Thanks for letting me prattle on.
To everyone reading……Take care, John.
The Leno show, though obviously too short, was still a wonderful treat. The AOL clips are incredible, and I’ve got tickets for the May 16 film release. Thank you all! What a wonderful continuation of this incredible music.
To the F.Ed., and all involved in the creation of this page: The conversation between life and art is both mutually sustaining and mutually corrective. This page has allowed for some overlap and interplay in the relationship between audience and artist that I think is extraordinary and is obviously in many ways quite new. I’ve been enjoying daily doses of this since January, have posted perhaps a half dozen times, love the new album, was gut wrenchingly grateful for both shows at Radio City. I guess my point, F.Ed., is that the work that you have done for all of us has been incredible–above and beyond, certainly, but also, I think, somewhat historic, amazing, and well appreciated. For all of us who enjoy the page, I’ll say this: If you’re ever in my neighborhood, you have only to drop an email and the drinks will be permenantly on me. You have been incredible, and we are all grateful for what you’ve accomplished! Thank you!
[Thanks very much, Gus. That's really kind of you. - Features Editor]
Just got back from LA, what a trip!!!
We were only a few feet from the band during the Leno taping, close enough to touch them, really! It was the most amazing thing ever to be that close and watch these masters play. It was great to meet the other bloggers there too!
Though it sounds like many of you didn’t like the way the Leno show turned out, I can’t comment on that as I haven’t seen the tape, but it WAS most appreciated by those in attendance.
Thanks FEd, that had to be one of my all time favorite life moments!
The concert at the Gibson, my first time seeing David live, was beyond anything I can ever fully put into words. And I believed everyone on here when they said echoes was incredible live, but I didn’t fully understand until I saw it last night. Un-real!
The whole concert rocked, every single note. Some of my favorites though had to be Time, Take a Breath, Fat Old Sun, and Echoes. But the entire setlist for me was perfect, absolutely perfect, from OAI to the Floyd classics, it just doesn’t get any better than that!
It was an extra treat to see David, Rick, Guy, Phil and Jon (I couldn’t see Steve from where I was sitting) exchanging smiles during the final notes of comfortably numb. Well done all of you, bravo!
I’m going to play yesterday’s events over and over again in my mind for the rest of my life (not to mention in my DVD player after the DVD is released). Thanks to everyone on here who has shared in this most wonderful experience.
The very first time I saw Pink Floyd perform in 1972 at Big Surf in Tempe, Arizona I was hooked. The next show was several years later in 1975 at the Arizona State Activity center which was the show that pretty much changed my life in terms of total appreciation of Pink Floyd. At this point I became a “Die Hard Fan”. Ever since I have NEVER missed a show including all of David’s solo shows. Ever show has been an amazing combination of music, light, and video, each one having its own personality. I believe that over time each performance and show has consistently gotten better even though there has been long periods of time between the big performances. Quite honestly “The Divison Bell” tour was absolutely amazing in terms of the music and special effects and I thought that nothing could ever really come close, but I have to tell I was FLAT WRONG! Being what I believed to be as one of the biggest Pink Floyd fans and I guess my friends could justify this comment I completely missed the dates when the tickets went on sale, consequently by the time I tried to get tickets there was basically none left. I got extremely lucky for someone who waited until 3 days before the show and I found some awesome tickets available (i.e. of course I mortgaged my house to get them…)for the Gibson Theatre show.
So again I was fortunate enough to acquire some fantastic tickets….boy was luck on my side…. My wife absolutely loved the show. She couldn’t stop asking me questions about the band and other information that she knew that I had answers too. The amazing thing is she has put up with me for so many years playing Pink Floyd that I think she was getting tired of me wearing out the music….and now she wanted me to play it all the way home (i.e. 6 hours back to Phoenix, I was OK with that….)
I guess that point that I am going to make is that I was really impressed by the show at the Kodak Theatre but quite frankly the show at the Gibson Ampitheatre was the best sound and light show I have ever witnessed in my life….quite frankly I can only HOPE that someone filmed and made a professional audio recording because it was certainly the best I have ever heard. I wish that a DVD existed of this show as I would like to share it with everybody PERIOD!
I would like to take a moment and recognize Colin Norfield, Mark Risk, and Phil Taylor who absolutely did a super job under a very tight time schedule and delivered the best show I have ever seen. Certainly everyone associated with the entire Production of this show deserves a “Big Thank You!”.
For those of you who are going to see the final leg of tour in Europe you are going to be treated with one of the best concerts of your life. One final word…”don’t wait too long to purchase your tickets, you might not be as lucky as me and you don’t want to miss this show!”.
Caption: During a session of “Smile”, Richard can’t help but crack one.
This movie theater concerts idea is something I have been saying for years and years. I went to the the Rolling Stones in an I-Max an theater a year ago and I had a ball. I laughed and smiled all the way through the concert. I have put many a suggestion in the suggestion boxes that these beautiful theaters with the monster screens and massive sound systems should be used for more concerts. Everything from Back to …..Pink Floyd of course. Maybe David would consider this as an option for filming at the RAH?? Maybe the illusive PULSE show would be a good Pink Floyd choice!
Many thanks for all the music and enjoy some rest.
Thanks to you F’Ed for your great blog here. I hope it continues.
Bob Mitchell, Victoria, BC, Canada
Saw the Leno show. I thought it was great. David looked like he was having a good time and was just plain cool. Guy moved around and kicked (he makes me smile) Missed Richard. They did well. I didn’t expect that Leno would give them much time, so I’m not let down. I thank the band for doin it. It gave me a chance to have friends/family see the crew.
Brian (IA)
Today, Earth Day, is the 13th anniversary of my sending David a letter of deep appreciation for how much his music was helping me through a very difficult time ~ and he wrote me back personally! What an incredibly sweet man he is for doing things like that (and what incredibly sweet music he makes!
I just found this site while looking for a way to connect with him somehow today (and now I know I have! 
This site is awesome and I’ll be a frequent visitor ~ many thanks to the team there for keeping those of us happily afflicted with ‘Gilmouritis’ so well informed about David.
All good wishes, Jan
Kevin’s statement is right on. To add, North America includes Canada, I can’t see why all are not included, South America as well. I’m not being facetious, we have to include fans everywhere on the globe here, that’s what counts, they can connect somehow. Dear Fed, I saw first hand after the Massey Show, there are truly nut bars out there trying to wedge David and Rog. It is a tremendous, delicate task ,you have here ,to opiniate ,to our general audience, and you have exceeded beyond my expectations. THANK YOU MATE. Take a Long Deserved Breath and Kick Ass Later.
P.S. AOL was stupendios, Leno not, sorry David and Polly. Sincerely.
P.S.S. I got a kick out of the Queen thingy. LOL.
Anyone know why David is wearing his wedding ring on his right hand during the AOL sessions video? Just curious.
-Jon, Nebraska
Had a great time last night at the Gibson! Best concert I have ever been to!
I was starting to worry…after reading the whiney comments on this board from the stuffy over the hill …he yelled…he got up and blocked my view…the people in front of me wouldnt sit down… waa waaa waa
but it wasnt like that…it was a great rock n roll crowd!
cant wait for the dvd! last night would have been the perfect night to record it!
I really appreciated the Leno gig myself, didn’t find it to be a letdown. Wish it had been longer but the Tonight Show isn’t a music show. I’m tired of reading the blogs of crashing bores like victor. It just so happens that the U.S is a bigger market than portugal, new zealand, norway etc combined. It’s just economics and has nothing to do with someone thinking that Americans ‘deserve’ something over the people in say the Czech Republic. And it’s not like the Mermaid Show on the ‘big screen’ is going to be free or anything, so give your anti-american rhetoric a rest victor and enjoy the music!
Pablo. Los Angeles, Ca
Actually, Jay Leno is one of the best working and hardest working comics in the business. He still writes most of his jokes and overall does a good job writing 7 minutes of FRESH and UP TO THE MINUTE stand-up material EVERY DAY. Some comedians take 10 yrs to craft solid one hour set. Leno busted his ass in the clubs in the 70′s and early 80′s. If you think you’re funny, pick up and read few daily newspapers or watch CNN for a few hours one morning and then sit down and write seven minutes of comedy. Do that everyday Monday – Friday for 40 weeks a year. It’s not easy. Leno is a pro.
I feel your frustration about their treatment of musical guests, I’m sure that is not a direct Leno decision. Gilmour was fantastic and the shortened version of OAI still shined.
does anyone know the guitar that jon played. most of the night, lap style with a slide. so so beautiful. talk about under the radar. whoah. thank you thank you thank you. really. no show will top the david gilmour show. go sabres
thanks for the pictures of the cumbus. it was in that weird dream i had before the album and before the show. wow. he really played it. like a pro. haha.
Hi all! We just got home from Universal Studios (we stayed in a hotel after the Gibson and then hit the attractions before coming home- thus the late review of the show).
I started to read some of the entries, but was seeing a lot of negative stuff and there seems to be a chill in the air… so I abandoned ship to tell my experineces yesterday.
The Leno show… I had an absolute blast!!! Was it staged? Yep. Did they ask us to wave our hands? Yep. Was the sound perfect? Nope. But guess what? I waved my hands and I wooped! I did it and I admit it… and I had a fantastic time! In fact the concert experience at the Gibson is running neck and neck with the Leno performance for me. I ran into some fellow bloggers (yea Renee! Yea Mike! Yea Mikes’ wife- I’m deeply sorry but I’ve forgotten her name) and like Renee said in her post… we were so close to everything. We couldn’t have been closer to David and the band if they had set up in my living room! The crown wasn’t that big… I sorta forget the cameras and the tv station stuff and had the feeling like this little show was just us (and in a way just for us) and the band. True or not I don’t care. That was my feeling. My wife felt the same-it was the highlight of our evening. You can call it cliche and find fault, but why would you?
The show… I could list troubles. There were some. But the people around me were fairly well behaved. There were those who got up and down… I refused to let it get in the way of a great performance. The beer was expensive, but I had one anyway and enjoyed every 1,200 pennies worth!
The room was hot but I expected it would be (in fact I suggested to my wife that she dress lightly for the show, and we both did).
The program is nice. Good job on the bios Fet ed. I like it.
The music: It was fantastic. Having Crosby and Nash on stage was great. I was soooooooo glad they included Find the Cost of Freedom- the harmony between them and David was truly awesome!
Breathe/Time/Breathe reprise were awesome. All of OAI was great but I especially liked the title track (second time in 5 hours!) and Take A Breath. I had hoped David would play the cumbus in the live show and he did. A very cool sound. I would love to hear more of that instrument.
Fat Old Sun is not one of my favorite tracks, but in this show it was a highlight! The guitar at the end was amazing! I also truly enjoyed Coming Back To Life… another steller solo!!! Echoe… incredible performance! I’m amazed that I actually got to see this performed live!!! I never imagined that would ever happen! Wish You Were Here… yes I come to hear the performer sing… but having an entire audience singing with the performer can be a magic thing. And in this case it was magic.
And of course Comfortably Numb (I can’t bring myself to use the popular “comfy numb”. A fantastic performace.
The lighting- I think there was trouble with lasers. They were sparse during the show and during the second solo for Comfortably Numb they abruptly stopped. If there was a problem and there should have been more lasers I figure they will probably be done at RAH and I’ll see them on the DVD. If there was no problem, well the folks in the UK didn’t see any for their shows either. I’ll take what I get!
All in all a great experience!!! I’m glad I went. And again dear Fet Ed… THANK YOU!!! I really enjoyed the Leno taping!
Tim Taylor
I’m not quite sure where to post this so I’ll put it here…
The Austin City Limits Music Festival is coming up in September. And I think it would be ‘a real hoot’ if David Gilmour and band would consider a spot in the line up. The three day festival draws in the area of 70K to 80K attendance from all over the world…
Austin is a great place to listen to live music as well as perform…
David Gilmour doesn’t appear to be playing Texas(or any southern state) in this tour, it would be nice to see him down this way…
If nothing else come for the BBQ…
Hi all
Off topic:
But it is important. On An Island (song) is number 1 at Top 50 of Polish Radio Program 3 chart (based of email or mail voting), after 5 weeks of listing up from 3rd.
What’s more interesting, (chart stared in April 1982) no other Pink Floyd or Pink Floyd member song has never topped the chart so far.
So David, please accept my congratulations for that.
Tomasz
Hi Fed & All,
Havn’t posted 4 a couple of days been at work and busy with things but finally caught up again I saw David on Leno, I’m with others about the way David was treated on Leno, but Davids voice beautiful as always,(Hey Fed keep up your good work),All of you who are lucky enough to see David Treasure that as I would if I had the chance,My ultimate DREAM is to see David and has been 4 many years If I had 1 wish It would be to see David ,NOT money or cars or other luxury material things just DAVID,So if you read this David maybe you can make my dream come true and tour oz PLEASE.Well thats all 4 now LOVE YA’S ALL MWA
Hi Fed,
Any word on the tix for night 1 at RAH, starting to get a bit twitchy now !!!
Cracking AOL stuff. Stil can’t get it to go full screen though !
Bloody compooters !!!
[Will ask on Monday for you, I promise. Did you get them in the presale? (Have I asked you that already? Don't you hate that déjà-vu feeling?) - Features Editor]
Hey Fed,Sorry I’m posting again so soon but I fogot to thank you for the links to David playing. Also wonderful photos in the couple days,Bye I’ll post again soon. MWA
mister glimore i think like wise 200,000 people that pink floyd is the greatest band ever you are part of it not very good guitarrist. zpreciate that. ok
Hi, my name is Valeria, I am Italian and I live in Sicily.
I would like to know, please, if is it true that david gilmour is going to play a concert in Taormina in july.
I love his music and the Pink Floyd, of course.
Please answer me soon.
valeria
[It's just another rumour. If there were to be more shows added, we would let you know immediately at http://www.davidgilmour.com. You can trust us. - Features Editor]